The priest from the first part is back, but this time he is deeper in his own madness. Instead of repenting, he seeks Redemption through firepower. Forgive Me Father 2 turns the old Shooter formula a frenzied ballet of blood, bullets and pure energy.

Between cathedral and catastrophe

Hardly any other shooter has such a distinctive style. Every scene looks like a hand-drawn Comic - dark, exaggerated and full of details. The colors pop, the shadows dance and everything seems alive, even though you are shooting it to pieces.

From godforsaken churches to rusty docks and grotesque greenhouses: each level has its own mood. Even when the chaos is raging, the style remains consistently impressive. It's as if H. P. Lovecraft had collaborated with a metal fan and a Cartoonists designed a game.

Weapons with personality in Forgive Me Father 2

The arsenal is the core of the game. Shotguns, revolvers, machine guns - everything looks raw and powerful. As you progress, the weapons become more bizarre, more organic, more alive. Some look as if they are breathing, which fits perfectly with this nightmare of steel and tentacles.

I buy new weapons from the doctor with the blue pill. Doctor I use the red pill to improve skills. The clever card system allows me to choose active and passive effects - such as self-healing on hits or increased armor. There is plenty of room to develop your own strategies without it feeling overloaded.

A driving soundtrack

Every movement in the game feels precise. Opponents are fast, aggressive and tactical enough to build up pressure. The pace remains high, but never chaotic. Every Arena is a stage, and I am the conductor of a murderous symphony.

The soundtrack is a chapter in itself: booming guitars, driving drums and a rhythm that amplifies every movement. The music reacts to the action and merges with the feel of the game. No background noise, just pure energy.

Forgive Me Father 2 is a nightmare with a soul

Forgive Me Father 2 is a statement that you can combine old ideas with new visions without losing your soul. The game is brutal, creative and wonderfully consistent in its aesthetics.

I like how everything fits together: the comic book look, the combat system, the music, the madness. It's a game that doesn't aim to please, but to convince. Anyone who loves Doom but is looking for more style will find their favorite nightmare here.

The post Sin meets style - Forgive Me Father 2 is pure Lovecraft in retro guise first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Nine years later, there is no longer any sign of this. No Man's Sky is an outstanding example of how a game can be successfully redesigned. With the new Voyagers update, the Space adventure has seen significant progress.

A No Man's Sky that never stops growing

The 6.0 update contains numerous improvements and bug fixes. The update extends No Man's Sky with features that will surprise even experienced players. For the first time, it is possible to completely customize the interior of the spaceships. The new corvette class is characterized by its size, modularity and accessibility. It has a cockpit, living quarters and a kitchen where meals can be prepared for the crew.

For me as a sci-fi and exploration fan, this is exactly the nerve that Hello Games needed to strike. The ship now gives the impression that it is my home - and not just a means of transportation between the stars. A special feature is the ability to bring friends on board as fellow passengers and travel through space together. However, the update offers even more improvements: Multiplayer missions, a new spacesuit, revamped lighting and even the integration of NVIDIA DLSS 4 for smoother gameplay, especially in VR.

From the biggest disappointment to the biggest comeback

That No Man's Sky is being celebrated today is nothing short of a miracle. Because after the disastrous launch in 2016, the brand seemed to have been burned. Many of the features announced at the time, such as multiplayer, base building and missions, were simply missing. But instead of giving up, Hello Games began to implement everything bit by bit.

Initially, base building, vehicles and story elements were added, followed by a full multiplayer experience with the NEXT update. VR, expeditions, seasonal missions and countless new game modes followed later. Today No Man's Sky no longer has anything in common with the original version - and I mean that in the best sense of the word.

For me personally, it is one of the most impressive games ever. I've spent countless hours in the cockpit, cataloging planets and building my own little base on a poisonous green moon. No Man's Sky is by no means just a game, but an ongoing project, a digital universe that continues to unfold with each passing year.

Voyagers, visions and the future

The fact that No Man's Sky still feels so lively in 2025 is not only due to the updates, but also to the clear philosophy of Hello Games. The studio, which currently employs around 50 people, focuses on long-term development rather than quick successors. And it pays off: over 100,000 simultaneous players on Steam prove that this strategy works. Without microtransactions, without paywalls - instead with honest work, continuity and passion. That's a rarity these days.

Hello Games is also looking ahead with the upcoming open-world game Light No Fire, which takes place on a single giant planet, long beyond the edge of the universe. They want to use the findings from No Man's Sky directly. Many of the technologies from the Voyagers update will also be used there. It seems that every new feature in No Man's Sky at the same time a testing ground for the future.

No Man's Sky was and remains one of my favorites

In the history of video games, there have been No Man's Sky managed to transform itself from a disaster into a legend. From a once overambitious flop to perhaps the most consistent long-term project in gaming history, the science fiction adventure has not only burned itself into the hearts of gamers, but after this long period of time also serves as a memorial to hasty releases and greedy publishers.

I am honestly glad that No Man's Sky all these years. Because now, after this long journey, I am being rewarded for not giving up. Today I am gliding through a huge, living universe in which every galaxy, every planet and even the smallest moment is tangibly breathing. What was once just a promise has finally become a reality (and almost within reach.)

The post No Man's Sky's Voyagers update - From crash landing to star flight first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

A 22-year-old, a dream and a studio

What also fascinates me: Behind Lords and Legions is not a huge development team, but a single person - just as it is with Manor Lords was the case. Sean Persson, just 22 years old, taught himself everything - from programming and modeling to animation. Warborne Studios may sound like a team of dozens of people, but it's actually a one-man project with a lot of passion.

This story gives the game a very special touch for me. We're not talking about a big AAA production here, but a heart project that has grown piece by piece. And when you see what Sean has achieved in such a short space of time, it's clear that passion can sometimes achieve more than entire departments in huge studios.

Campaign mode: risk, reward and hardcore sweat

In campaign mode, I start as a lone hero - without an army, just a small bag of gold. Every battle is a risk, but also a chance to become stronger. Victories bring resources that I can use to expand my troops and recruit new units. But the bigger my army grows, the more dangerous my opponents become.

The special thing for me is the hardcore mode. There are no second chances here. Every decision, whether risky or cautious, can make the difference between victory and downfall. This Roguelike element ensures that I play every battle with bated breath - and that's exactly what I love about strategy games.

Lords and Legions Sandbox as a stage for my imagination

Away from the campaign, the game reveals its creative side. In sandbox mode, I build my own battlefields. I form hills, plant forests or completely erase the terrain. I decide whether the sun sets peacefully or whether a storm rages across the land. Then I deploy armies - empire vs. Undead, Rebels against Warborn or everyone against everyone chaos.

What appeals to me is that I'm not just playing here, I'm directing. It almost feels like I'm the director of a gigantic medieval fantasy battle. Sometimes I create a cinematic finale, sometimes a merciless bloodbath - and both are equally satisfying. That's how Peter Jackson must feel about The Lord of the Rings have felt...

Heroes, skills and the personal battle

The unique selling point of Lords and Legions is not just about the armies. I slip directly into the role of a hero and fight in a third-person perspective in the midst of the turmoil of battle. With every battle I win, I expand my repertoire of skills and have the opportunity to actively turn the tide of battle. A well-timed strike or a powerful ability can determine the outcome of an entire battle. This combination of direct control and strategic overview makes the game special for me.

Early Access and the community

Official start Lords and Legions on September 23, 2025 in Early Access. Sean himself emphasizes how important the community is to him. He wants that Lords and Legions not only remains his project, but grows into a game that lives from the ideas and feedback of the players. For me, that's one of the best aspects: Giving feedback, engaging in discourse with the community and actively helping to shape the game. That's why a Discord Server on which everything mentioned is possible. (Link is below the article in the link box)

A resounding yes to Lords and Legions

Lords and Legions is for me a prime example of how much a single developer can create with passion. It combines epic battles, the thrill of roguelikes and the freedom of a sandbox to create a game that is, or becomes, more than the sum of its parts. I've rarely felt so much respect for a project where I also feel like every decision I make carries weight. And the mere fact that I can get a taste of the demo for free makes it a must-play for me.

The post Bloodier than any medieval saga - Lords and Legions unleashes the battlefield of my imagination first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

When chaos learned to walk: a look back

Back in 1998, the clever minds at Sixteen Tons Entertainment an ingenious idea: What if players really had to go on a fire department call, to the hospital or to the police? This is how EMERGENCY: Fighters for Lifethe ancestor of an entire series that has been making us sweat ever since. The idea was simple: you're the boss who has to rock the disasters. Most of the time, the whole thing is set in modern times, with fast emergency vehicles and all kinds of high-tech. Just imagine: A train crashes into the end of a terminus, terrorists play "hide and seek" with hostages and bombs, or a major fire causes entire city districts to go up in flames. And you? You are the glorious pixel rescuer! So if you've always wanted to give the command "Extinguish! Now!" ", this is EMERGENCY your perfect training camp.

EMERGENCY: Free stress from the Steam cloud

The latest baby in the series is EMERGENCYand the best part? It's free on Steam! Since May 2023, we've been able to really get to grips with it again. Sure, it's structured a little differently to its predecessors, but for me it's a worthy successor that reliably raises my blood pressure.

You start on a large map with four very unique districts: Countryside, Downtown, Laborton and Industrial Port. Countryside is a bit of "country love meets small industry", Downtown is the urban jungle, Laborton is pure industry plus "amorous nightlife" (don't ask what that has to do with rescue, but it sounds exciting!), and the Industrial Port offers lots of water, shipping and - surprise! - even more industry. And we all know that where there's industry, there's bound to be a bang at some point. Perfect for us who love explosions!

Difficulty level: Your personal heart rate monitor

You choose your level of difficulty, which basically just measures how much suffering you want to endure today. The green tasks are for warm-blooded people and beginners: easy-peasy, hardly any work, fires almost extinguish themselves. But don't you dare get any better! With every level you move up, the chaos increases and new factors are added that drive you to the brink of madness.

Take the weather, for example: in a storm, fires spread like wildfire across a dry field and your people crawl through the wind like snails. In fog, you can't see your hand in front of your eyes - flying blind is inevitable! The cold may slow down the flames a little, but your poor pixel patients will freeze faster and immediately become an emergency case. Oh yes, and your people like to slip and then lie around stupidly for a few seconds. In the heat, they get heatstroke and also fall over. And fires? They spread all the more. My personal highlight: when lightning strikes and starts a new fire and you have to call in an extra fire-fighting unit. That's always exhilarating for the blood pressure!

Upgrades, coins and the matter of money (once again)

Before each mission, you can select three upgrade cards to pimp your units for a short time. You get them by playing and improving them with coins. Coins are awarded for successful missions, daily or weekly tasks and sometimes even for logging in every day.

But let's be honest: leveling up takes ages. You soon realize: Oh yes, it's a free game! And what does a free game have? That's right, a store! Here you can buy in-game packages for real money and speed up the whole level grind considerably. In addition to temporary upgrades, there are also permanent upgrades that also eat up coins and make your units better in the long run. These range from simple power resistance (handy!) to better engines for faster travel and bullet protection for your rescuers. Doctors heal their patients faster and you can even tune their movement speed. A total of 58 temporary and 142 permanent upgrade cards are waiting for you to unlock them. That's a lot of coins!

The store also offers Emeralds, the precious currency for cool skins or "consumable cards". This is particularly interesting, because EMERGENCY is heavily geared towards co-op mode. Sure, you can try everything on your own, but from the "red" (i.e. really difficult) tasks onwards, the solo game becomes a suicide mission. I can't say much about the co-op mode myself because I haven't had a human teammate yet. But hey, if you want to support me in the chaos, feel free to write to me on Discord! The stress is much better together, isn't it?

Your job: Extinguishing, rescuing, overpowering - and constantly losing your mind

The missions are small packages of horror scenarios that you have to complete within a time limit. There are only a few at the beginning, but the higher your level, the more they pile up. Eleven tasks at the same time? That can happen! But seven to nine is the rule.

What is your job? You put out fires, treat injured people and send them to hospital, defuse bombs, repair broken electrical boxes, overpower armed villains and send them to prison - and much more! You have a whole fleet of vehicles at your disposal: Fire truck, fire engine, ladder truck, emergency doctor, ambulance, police car, SEK, engineer and crane vehicle.

And now comes the fun part: you have to select the right units and send them to the location. There you give them tasks which they... well, bluntly fulfill. Whether they get shot at or stand in the middle of the fire? It doesn't matter! When in doubt, they simply fall over and become an emergency doctor themselves. The rescue pixels are so stupid that you as the incident commander can really lose faith in humanity. They're standing right next to a fire and nobody thinks to put it out! You have to click on them and direct them, otherwise nothing will happen. And so you're constantly busy finding the right units from a jumble of pixels, giving them orders and praying that they don't get killed. Because if your units fail, the whole mission quickly goes to hell!

Oh, and you can only have five vehicles on the field at a time if you don't have any special cards. If personnel are injured or a vehicle is damaged, it blocks a slot. For repairs, you need an engineer, who also occupies a slot. And vehicles? You can never have enough of them! Especially when the game gets really crazy and throws three or four new missions at you at once. Then the word "stress" takes on a whole new dimension!

If you don't react quickly enough to the fires, you'll have a fire front in no time at all that you'll never be able to get under control again. And the injured? They need help immediately too! The worse the situation, the faster your chaos level rises. When the chaos reaches a certain level, a timer starts ticking and your mission will fail within a few minutes. But don't panic, there's also a card that resets the timer. To buy in the store, of course!

There are plenty of missions, and as the level increases, they become more and more insane. If a ship is captured by terrorists at medium level, they still have a bomb and hostages on board at high level. At the same time, the cooldown times of your vehicle slots increase, making it increasingly difficult to keep everything under control at all levels.

Conclusion: If you love high blood pressure, play EMERGENCY!

All in all EMERGENCY a great sequel that will keep you hooked for hours and really push up your stress levels. The many random tasks in the missions provide variety and challenge your strategic skills. It's always exciting because some missions are less frequent, while others, often slightly modified, appear more often.

So if you like to have higher blood pressure and a good dose of stress in your free time, then EMERGENCY just the thing for you! And don't worry, as you level up, your neighbors will know that you're still alive. Your swearing will tell them when everything gets out of hand and you've lost track of all the tasks!

You can find my video for this game here.

The post When the end of the day is on fire - EMERGENCY and the normal madness of the emergency services first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

As an open-world rural RPG with sandbox elements The Ranchers: New Beginning a variety of ways to redesign life in the countryside. Whether breeding animals, growing plants or building their own dream home, players have the freedom to develop their ranch according to their own ideas. Farming and management skills are put to the test in order to turn the ranch into a thriving business and win the respect of the villagers.

Agricultural development for a new phase of life

The first step in The Ranchers: New Beginning is to set up your own farm. The choice of location - be it on the coast, in the Prairie or in the mountains - influences not only the aesthetics, but also the available resources and challenges. With a variety of furniture and decorations, the Dream house individually.

The simulation offers a great deal of freedom, but also responsibility. Capital is required for every time-out, every adventure and every expansion of production. It is therefore advisable to start by breeding animals or growing high-yield crops. The income allows you to invest in better equipment and a more comfortable interior. Over time, players must prove their skills as farmers and managers in order to grow their products. profitable for sale.

The expansion into the glorious The Ranchers agricultural company

As time progresses, the production line becomes more complex. Recovered raw materials can be used to build new areas. The production of special machines to convert simple resources into more complex products opens up new potential. The more varied and higher quality the supply, the more enthusiastic the villagers are, which leads to increased demand.

The open-world structure makes it possible to acquire adjacent plots of land and expand the Sphere of influence to expand. The larger the farm, the more time must be invested in caring for and keeping the animals. Selling surplus resources on the online auction market can generate additional income that can be invested in wind turbines, solar panels or decorative elements.

My dream house, a feast for the eyes

Improving your own dream home is a central element in The Ranchers: New Beginning. Financial resources from the sale of products enable upgrades, expansions and the purchase of new machines. Surplus resources can be sold on the online auction market to invest in sustainable technologies such as wind turbines or solar panels.

The trade guild offers seasonal tasks with rewards such as seeds, new animals or other in-game content. A flourishing farm also opens up opportunities to discover new sources of income and strengthen the community through confidence-building measures.

In The Ranchers, an active life is a balance to the daily production routine

To escape the daily grind The Ranchers: New Beginning to a variety of discovery missions. Whether on foot, on horseback or in a pick-up truck - the newfound freedom is palpable. Wild islands, shipwrecks and hidden mines offer adventure and the opportunity to find rare minerals and gemstones.

But Caution is required: Dangerous monsters lurk in dark caves. Treasures found can be sold or donated to the museum, depending on your goals and account balance. These elements give the game additional depth and set it apart from other farming simulations.

And this is where The Ranchers outside the box of ordinary agricultural and farming simulations - with success! On Kickstarter the fundraising campaign reached around 245,000 euros.

Social exchange and helping hands at The Ranchers

Social interactions are another important aspect. In the city, players can interact with different characters, make friends and even start a family. These relationships influence the gameplay and offer additional opportunities for individualization.

The 4-player co-op mode makes it possible to expand the ranch together with friends, achieve goals and explore the open world. The online auction market also offers the opportunity to trade resources with other players and maximize profits.

Difference to Len's Island

Compared to Len's Island is the focus of The Ranchers: New Beginning less on survival elements and more on life as a farmer. While Len's Island is more action-heavy and offers more sophisticated combat mechanics, focuses on The Ranchers on the structure and Administration a farm. Nevertheless, there are also battles against cave monsters here, which give the game additional excitement.

A new chapter in the countryside

The Ranchers: New Beginning is a comprehensive simulation that depicts life in the countryside in all its facets. With a mixture of farming, management, social interactions and adventures, the game offers a varied gaming experience. The ability to play together with friends adds to the fun. A game that shows that life in the countryside is anything but boring.

The post Farming instead of shares! In The Ranchers: New Beginning, your adventurous life awaits in the countryside first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

A playground for franchise lovers

Funko Fusion is at its core a lovingly designed Third-Person Action-adventure game that immerses players in iconic worlds inspired by some of pop culture's most iconic franchises. From the menacing jungles of Jurassic World across the gloomy corridors of The Thing to the chaotic streets of Hot Fuzz - There is something for every taste here. The special thing about Funko Fusion is, however, that each of these worlds is not only authentically recreated, but is also infused with the typical, slightly exaggerated humor of the Funko Pop!-figures.

A total of over 60 playable characters, each in a charming Funko Pop!-style, are waiting to be discovered by fans. These characters, all inspired by well-known franchise characters, are not only a visual treat, but also playful. Each character comes with their own weapons and special abilities, which are not only helpful in battle, but also when solving puzzles and discovering secrets. A particular highlight are the unique skills of some characters, which open doors or make secret paths accessible, for example. This mixture of action, puzzles and exploration makes Funko Fusion to a varied experience that always has new surprises in store.

Another centerpiece of the game is the toy factory, which acts as a hub area. From here, players can immerse themselves in the various themed worlds and experience new adventures time and time again. The Toy factory itself is not just a simple place to start the missions, but a lovingly designed area that is also full of details and secrets. If you look closely, you will discover numerous allusions to various franchises represented in the game.

Funko Fusion combines Easter eggs and funny details

The attention to detail is in Funko Fusion omnipresent. The developers have not only accurately recreated the worlds and characters, but have also hidden a multitude of Easter eggs and interactive objects in the levels. These small, hidden allusions and gimmicks add to the game's appeal and reward attentive players who love to explore every nook and cranny. It's almost like a big digital Funko Pop!-shelf, where each level has its own little surprise.

In addition to the action-packed battles, which are fought in both close and long-range combat, the game also offers smaller puzzle and brain teasers. In the various themed worlds, there are special vending machines where players can exchange vinyl tokens to obtain new items or special abilities. These mechanics are not just a nice gimmick, but also a clever system that combines the different gameplay elements and thus ensures long-term motivation. Because who doesn't want to be Jurassic World Dilophosaurus through the streets of Hot Fuzz strip?

Particularly appealing is the possibility that mechanics found in one world can also be used in other worlds. In this way, the characters' abilities are constantly expanded and it is worth exploring old areas again to discover new paths and secrets. This mixture of exploration, combat and puzzle solving ensures a constantly increasing tension curve and rewards the player's creativity.

Graphics and sound: a feast for the senses

As far as the presentation is concerned, the Funko Fusion has a lot to offer. Thanks to the powerful Unreal Engine 5 players can look forward to sophisticated lighting effects and excellently animated characters. The different graphic styles that characterize each world are particularly striking. While the Jurassic World area, for example, seems rather realistic - as far as that is possible at all with the cuddly figures - the Masters of the Universe setting with a comic-like look that perfectly matches the iconic heroes.

The soundtrack is also convincing and skillfully accompanies the action-packed scenes as well as the humorous moments. The music adapts to the respective franchises and helps players to immediately feel at home in the different worlds. Whether dramatic orchestral music in Jurassic World or groovy synthesizer sounds in Back to the future - the soundtrack of Funko Fusion is just as diverse as the characters and worlds the game has to offer.

What's more, each world has its own unique sound design. The roar of the dinosaurs in Jurassic World makes you shiver just as much as the menacing sounds in the dark corridors of The Thing. This attention to detail runs through the entire game and ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the different universes. The typical Funko-humor is always present, so that even in the most threatening moments, a smile is never far away.

Funko Fusion - An experience for fans

Funko Fusion is not just a game, but a real feast for all those who love pop culture references and lovingly designed games. 1010 Games Ltd has hit a nerve with this title and could deliver a real highlight for 2024. With a variety of playable characters, different graphic styles and clever puzzle and combat elements, the game offers hours of fun for single players and groups alike. The fact that the game can also be played in co-op mode - albeit only online - adds to the appeal of exploring the various worlds with friends and discovering the hidden secrets.

Long-term motivation is provided by the particularly well-hidden characters and so-called Cameo Levels, in which familiar characters from other franchises appear and provide surprises. The possibilities that arise from this mix are almost endless. Just imagine when Xena the dinosaurs in Jurassic World to fight or as Chucky the dark secrets of The Umbrella Academy to ventilate.

And if you haven't had enough yet, you can look forward to future expansions, because Funko Fusion will continue to grow after the launch and bring new franchises to the game. 1010 Games Ltd has already announced that further brands are in the pipeline and that the world of Funko Fusion will be continuously expanded in the coming months. The journey through the world of Funko Pop!-So the story of the new characters is far from over, and fans can look forward to seeing what adventures await them next. In short: Funko Fusion is a game that has a lot to offer both Funko fans and lovers of good action-adventure games - and has a charming sense of humor that is simply fun to play.

The post Funko Fusion - Pop culture chaos sparks the ultimate fan craze first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

As the successor to the 2D Roguelite game Cryptark extended Gunhead the fast and strategic gameplay into a captivating FPS experience.

The mech against evil machines

A mech pirate with a gun for a head? So kidnapped Gunhead Players take on the role of an unusual protagonist. Sounds like a serious headache, but in this game it's the perfect combination for action and adventure. The abandoned spaceships that need to be plundered are no ordinary scrap heap. Littered with tunnels and halls, they are full of dangers. Drones, hooks and other machines are programmed to make life difficult for mech pirates in particular. This unusual design not only offers something visually, but also poses a challenge in terms of gameplay. The creative design decision not only ensures visual originality, but also influences the gameplay in an exciting way.

In Gunhead, it's not just bullets that hit, but roguelike meets FPS

Gunhead combines the intensity of a first-person shooter with the unpredictability of a Rogue-like. Each spaceship you enter is unique and demands quick decisions and adaptability from the player. The procedurally generated levels ensure that no two runs are the same. This dynamic mix keeps the game fresh and exciting, even after several hours at the controls of the mech pirate.

Strategic depth and audiovisual gunhead

Beneath the surface of this fast-paced shooter lies a layer of strategic depth. Each ship has its own challenges and security systems to overcome. The choice of equipment and plan of attack are crucial to success. With over 50 weapon options, players can customize their mech to develop the best tactics for each mission. These strategic elements add an extra dimension to the game that goes beyond simply firing weapons.

Not only the gameplay of Gunhead captivates, but also the throbbing soundtrack, which perfectly matches the intense firefights is coordinated. The combination of visual and acoustic elements creates an immersive atmosphere that intensifies the thrill of the battles and the exploration of the alien spaceships. Caution is advised: Danger of addiction!

Bend metal and distribute head nuts

Gunhead is a unique blend of FPS, roguelike and space piracy. It offers strategy, action and a pinch of humor. For lovers of fast-paced shooters, tactical challenges and unconventional game elements, Pirate Småland is a real must-have. The change from 2D - as the successor to the Roguelite game Cryptark - to a 3D action title has done the game a lot of good. All in all Gunhead a title that can't necessarily be pigeonholed - unless the drawer hangs crookedly in the rails and has holes... krrrzkt... beep... beep... krrrzkt...

The post Gunhead - In space it hails kisses on the nuts first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Midnight Heist: The art of burglary

In Midnight Heist teamwork is the be-all and end-all. Whether solo or in a quartet, every break-in requires careful planning and execution. More players mean bigger rewards, but they also attract more attention. This balancing act between risk and reward makes every heist a unique and exciting experience with or without Jump-Scare. The correct distribution of tasks and the skillful use of the characters' individual abilities are crucial for success.

These thieves are not mine!

It goes into Midnight Heist It's not just about breaking into companies and stealing data. Midnight City harbors an eerie secret: rumor has it that strange shadows roam the office buildings after midnight. This mysterious and menacing presence creates a constant threat and increases the tension at every step. Players must be vigilant at all times and not let the darkness and intimidate the shadow leave. Easier said than done...

Organizations with character: Choose your side

In this game there are Various organizations such as the Black Hats, Satoshi and Shadow, each with their own goals and methods. This variety of characters and missions gives the game depth and replay value. Players must decide who they want to work for and test their moral boundaries in the process. Each decision can have far-reaching consequences and significantly influence the way the story unfolds.

Character development: more than just a face in the crowd

Midnight Heist offers a selection of characters who gain experience by completing tasks. Future updates should make it possible to make cosmetic adjustments with the money earned, which will give the game a personal touch lends. This character development allows players to identify with their avatar and build a deeper connection to the game.

Midnight Heist captivates and challenges

Midnight Heist is a gripping co-op horror game that combines the tension of Phasmophobia with the intrigue of Among Us connects. With its exciting atmosphere, captivating challenges and element of danger, the gameplay captivates players. In addition, the game promises a unique experience for fans of the genre and newcomers alike with the prospect of future updates and the ability to customize the game characters.

The post Midnight Heist - Nocturnal raids, shadowy thrills first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

From Daedalus to Icarus

Daedalic Entertainmentonce a favorite of the German gaming scene, was known for its point-and-click adventures. But over time, the desire to be one of the big names in the industry grew. With "The Lord of the Rings: Gollum", this dream was to become reality. But instead of the longed-for flight of fancy, the company fell into a deep slump.

After the debacle surrounding Gollum, Daedalic withdrew from development and has since acted solely as a publisher. It is a sad ironythat a studio that was once praised for its creative and innovative games, such as the Deponia series, was brought down by a project that had so much potential.

The harsh reality behind the scenes of "The Lord of the Rings: Gollum"

The YouTube channel Game Two has taken a closer look at the history of Daedalic Entertainment and in particular the development of "Gollum". The documentary shows a picture of a studiowhich was under pressure and where a climate of fear prevailed. Overtime, underpaid employees and a harsh tone were the order of the day.

Particularly telling: the letter of apology for the Gollum debacle, which most likely from an AI, ChatGPT, was written. This incident shows how much the trust between developer and publisher had eroded and how little respect was shown to the project and its creators.

Technical hurdles and budget problems

One of the main problems in the development of "Gollum" was the budget. At only 15 million euros, it was far below what is usual for AAA titles. Despite a team of experienced developers, resources were limited. This meant that many planned features and content could not be implemented. Scenes were not animated, characters were hidden and innovative mechanics were replaced by simple solutions.

It's a classic example of how too tight a budget and too high expectations can lead to a perfect storm that dooms a project to failure.

The Lord of the Rings: Gollum - The End of a Dream

"The Lord of the Rings: Gollum" was supposed to be the breakthrough for Daedalic Entertainment, but it turned out to be a nail in the coffin. The game was savaged by critics and gamers alike. Bugs, crashes and unfulfilled promises led to a storm of indignation.

The development team at Daedalic finally had to swallow the bitter pill and give up development. It is a painful reminder that even the most talented teams can fail when circumstances are against them.

You can watch Game Two's report on the failure of "The Lord of the Rings: Gollum" at on YouTube here.

And if you don't watch your feet, there's no telling where they'll take you...

The history of The Lord of the Rings: Gollum is a reminder for the entire industry, but especially for the German gaming industry. It shows how important it is to create realistic Goals to pay attention to the well-being of employees and to communicate transparently with the community. It is a reminder that not every risk pays off and that the road to success is often rocky.

But it is also a story of passion, ambition and the desire to create great things. It shows that even in the midst of failure, lessons can still be learned and experiences gained that are invaluable for future projects.

The post The Lord of the Rings: Gollum - The failure of an ambitious project first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

An unstoppable group

It's not just a motley bunch of heroes who go out and beat up monsters, it's a community. A team of five various heroeseach with their own personality, fighting style and unique abilities. The variety of skills is the key to success. New possibilities open up with every playthrough, such as new heroes, new adventures and new items that can be equipped. No two adventures are the same and that's what makes them so appealing. The first game seems restrictive, but those who experiment and combine will find the perfect group and the necessary equipment to put Goltar in his place.

Fellowship - Ultimate group dynamics

Formation is everything. It applies in real time, the optimal formation to defeat the enemy hordes. Flexibility is required. Sometimes offensive, sometimes defensive, depending on the situation. Each formation has its advantages and the right timing is crucial. It's a constant shift between attack and defense, a chess game with magical abilities... and a game in which players always have to be one step ahead.

Synergy is the magic word. Powerful combos can be activated by combining the abilities of the heroes. These synergies are the key to destroying the monstrous hordes. Each ability of a hero interacts with another ability of another hero. This makes the fight against the monsters ever more impressive. This guarantees an increase in fun... or frustration. The best thing, however, is that you'll be itching to start a new round every now and then.

Plunder, adapt, conquer

The world of Eldrida is full of treasures. Raw materials, magic stones and other valuable items are waiting to be discovered and collected. With these treasures you can the heroes improved and strengthened become. The heroes do not always get these items straight away, as the next wave of monsters is not long in coming. Finding a way through the wall of trolls and wolves sometimes requires skillful navigation. The enemies are varied and strong: over 100 unique monsters, fearsome bosses and mini-bosses with their own techniques and attack patterns.

Taking small steps towards fellowship

Early Access already offers an impressive insight into the game, what Fellowship has to offer. 8 out of 12 heroes, various synergy and combo abilities, 3 formations and 4 out of 10 regions are waiting to be explored. Plus a breathtaking, hand-drawn world brought to life down to the smallest detail. Fellowship is an adventure, a journey, a challenge - and it has it all... With an impressive variety of heroes, formations and synergies, it offers players endless battles.

The post Fellowship - Heroic adventures in the shadow of Eldrida first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Teeing off into adventure

Par for the Dungeon is not a simple game, but a journey full of puzzles, dangers and unexpected twists. Accompany Cal on his hunt for the sneaky, dog-like bogeys through over 100 increasingly tricky levels. This involves not only golf balls, but also laser beams and Grappling hook fought.

The world of Par is diverse and unique. From picturesque little town from snow-covered crypts to mushroom-covered forests, there is plenty to discover and master. If you master the game mechanics and complete the levels in as few moves as possible, you will unlock new challenges and outfits for Cal.

Par for the Dungeon - An unusual exchange of blows

As in traditional golf, the aim of each level is to get Cal into the hole with as few strokes as possible. Yes, Cal is the golf ball... The aim is to, bizarre obstacles to analyze and overcome and to precisely adjust the impact force. But be careful! Hordes of bogeys patrol every level and block the holes with their mere presence.

To gain the upper hand, the players have to build bounce chains, deadly traps and skillfully use an arsenal of items. It's a constant battle between strategy and skill, where every decision counts.

Golf with a pinch of chaos

Par for the Dungeon is not only a feast for puzzle fans, but also for anyone looking for a good dose of action and variety. It's not just the golf ball that explodes here, but also the excitement! The combination of strategic thinking, precise timing and quick reflexes makes this game a real gaming experience.

The variety of levels and the constant new challenges keep players on their toes and allow them to No boredom arise. Each level is a new adventure where you never know what to expect.

Unique worlds and challenges

The worlds of Par are as diverse as they are challenging. The different environments, from idyllic villages to mysterious crypts, always offer new surprises and challenges.

The constant hunt for the perfect shot and the next high score keeps motivation high. The ability to unlock new outfits and challenges adds an extra dimension to the game and keeps the fun going.

Par for the Dungeon - An adventurous hole-in-one dream

Par for the Dungeon is an explosive and varied adventure that combines calm golf with action-packed elements and tricky puzzles. A game that exercises both the gray matter and the laugh muscles and guarantees hours of fun. A must for all golf (ball) fans!

The post Par for the Dungeon - A hole-in-one for the adventurous! first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

From nobody to Warhaven legend

For Warhaven, the developer studio NEXON Games has a total of six different character classes and four additional special classes on offer, with which budding warriors can plunge into the fray. The classes differ The swordsmen, for example, are of average strength and well suited to various attack positions. Axe-wielders are somewhat more powerful and are always at the front of an attack wave. Spearmen, on the other hand, are much faster and more agile, but prefer to attack from the second line, as they could quickly lose out in a direct clash.

If players are successful on the battlefield, they collect points for defeating enemies or completing mission objectives. Once they have earned enough points, they transform into one of the so-called immortals. These are legendary heroes who can eliminate entire groups of enemies with powerful special attacks. These Legends on the battlefield are revered and feared, and a warrior who succeeds in bringing an immortal back to the afterlife earns a lot of points.

Helpful environment

In Warhaven, players should keep a watchful eye on the different battlefields explore. There are things everywhere that can be used tactically. This doesn't just mean walls to hide behind or stairs for an elevated attack position. There are also barrels of gunpowder that can be turned into explosive surprises with targeted shots.

Some levels also offer ballistas or war cannons that can be used to provide fire cover for your own team. Siege devices, on the other hand, allow players to unlock new paths to get to certain points on the map more quickly. Caution is advised here, however, as the opponents these shortcuts can also be torn down again. Nevertheless, it is worth exploring the tactical elements of each map in order to gain the upper hand in the heated PvP battles.

Big chain rattle in Warhaven

To create the feeling of medieval battle better transfer, the developers of NEXON Games and have given Warhaven extensive theaters of war where they can let off steam. Players can choose one of the two battle parties and go to war either alone or with two friends. The teams can each have a total of 16 brave warriors in their ranks, allowing for large-scale battles with a maximum of 32 players.

To ensure that the armed warriors don't just run around blindly, the game offers different game modes. For example, there is a skirmish mode in which the teams have to fight for certain points on the map and hold them for as long as possible in order to collect points. In Onslaught mode, on the other hand, players have to destroy the recruits of the opposing teams as far back into their own base as possible. The so-called Arms Race is also interesting. In this mode, players start with only a base defense and have to find the weapons scattered around the map as quickly as possible in order to defend themselves. The game modes are varied and ensure that the medieval PvP game feels fresh and action-packed.

The post Warhaven - When the sound of clanking iron beckons first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Chimera was first presented at the PC Gaming Show has been unveiled and has already attracted the attention of players. The known details are still limited. However, Chimera is set to go into early access in the foreseeable future. The Polish studio wants to use this phase to optimize the game with feedback from the community.

Update: Chimera is being further developed under the new title StarRupture. Here you can read the Report on the current playtest.

The vision behind Chimera

Players should be placed in a Sci-fi world which not only boasts impressive graphics, but also a multi-layered plot and challenging gameplay. You take over - alone or in Multiplayer - take control of one of the main characters stranded on an alien planet.

Chimera is characterized by a cycle of destruction and Reconstruction are haunted. The forces of nature are merciless, and hostile aliens pose a constant threat. But every challenge offers an opportunity for growth and development.

Base building and the weather

This is one of Chimera's focuses, a base on the planet in order to exploit its resources. The Ecosystem However, the climate is structured in such a way that phases of arctic cold alternate with extremely hot phases in which everything burns.

In this world of extremes, players also have to face hostile alien animals and plants. Everything is potentially deadly: animals want to eat you, Poisoning plants you and the weather can either freeze or burn you.

Well done to those who are well prepared in Chimera

"These catastrophic natural events are as productive as they are destructive, changing the world around you in ways that could help you expand your center base. Habitats can burn down to make room for new ones, or previously hidden resources can be uncovered," says Michał Stawicki, game director at Creepy Jar.

If you plan well, you can save yourself the trouble of laboriously removing the poisonous plant near the base when the Next heatwave which burns anyway.

So nature is sometimes deadly, but sometimes also helpful. If you plan well, you can take advantage of this.

Conclusion: A future full of survival and action

Chimera by Creepy Jar is set to be more than just another survival game. It's a promise to offer a unique gaming experience where survival is not just an option, but a reality. a constant challenge is. With a mix of adventure, sci-fi and intense gameplay, Chimera could be the next big thing in the survival genre.

The post Chimera - Survival in a ruthless Creepy Jar world first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

The main character is Camina Drummer, an officer on the spaceship Artemis, who is supposed to lead her crew of looters to the next raid. But what planned as a major coup ends in a medium-sized catastrophe. A thrilling and heartbreaking adventure that repeatedly confronts players with moral decisions. It is also remarkable how the game captures the atmosphere of the series and gives players the feeling of really being part of this fascinating world.

The Expanse: A Telltale Series - A graphical upgrade

Compared to previous Telltale games, "The Expanse" sets new technical standards. Both the interiors and the character models benefit from a significantly higher level of detail. The characters have very distinctive, slightly exaggerated facial features, while the surroundings appear very detailed and almost realistic. The Game creates thereby a very dense atmosphere. There are only minor drawbacks in the portrayal of facial expressions and emotions, which sometimes seem a little wooden... But that's how you know it, that's how you love it!

Despite these minor "weaknesses", the graphic presentation is impressive overall and contributes significantly to the deep immersion. The detailed environments and character models, together with the atmospheric lighting and sound effects, create a world that invites you to explore and linger.

Decisions, decisions...

As usual with Telltale, the narrative and the characters are clearly in the foreground. The extensive dialog sequences have a first-class soundtrack and the different dialects underline the characters and their origins. The salt in the Telltale soup However, it has always been the decisions that have shaped history and above all the relationships of the characters shape and change each other. It is precisely this stylistic element that celebrates its comeback in "The Expanse" - and often causes headaches. Because in the dark world of science fiction, there is rarely a good or a bad solution.

It's these decisions that make "The Expanse: A Telltale Series" such a compelling experience. They give the game a depth and complexity that goes far beyond what you would expect from a traditional video game. Every decision has consequences, and players are often forced to choose between two evils, resulting in a strong emotional connection to the characters and the story. History leads.

Weightless through space in "The Expanse: A Telltale Series"

Apart from the very well realized story and the decision-making options, "The Expanse" is an exciting, albeit somewhat superficial adventure. In between, for example, players have to survive action passages in reaction tests or search Artemis from the chase perspective in order to chat with their comrades. The most important new feature is undoubtedly the sections in zero gravity. Similar to the action adventure Deliver Us Mars the players float through space and explore the aforementioned spaceship wreck with the help of a flashlight, for example.

These weightlessness sections are not only a welcome change from the otherwise rather dialog-heavy gameplaybut also contribute to the atmosphere of the game. Players experience the feeling of weightlessness and the associated challenges at first hand. Whether it is about moving around in zero gravity or coping with the physical characteristics of space - these sections impressively convey the feeling, actually in space to be. They are another example of how "The Expanse: A Telltale Series" succeeds in immersing players in its fascinating world.

Telltale Games - Phoenix from the ashes

Telltale Games, known for its narrative adventure games, had to file for bankruptcy in 2018 and was shut down. The reasons for the decline were manifold and included excessive expansion, a series of poorly selling games and internal management problems. However, in August 2019, the company was acquired by LCG Entertainment, a company founded by industry veterans Jamie Ottilie and Brian Waddle. They acquired most of Telltale Games' assets, brands, technology and select licenses and planned to revitalize the company and relaunch some of its most popular titles.

Since then, the revitalized Telltale Games has released new titles, including "The Expanse: A Telltale Series", and shown that the company's ability, Captivating narrative games to develop has not been lost. Ottilie announced at the time that some of the former Telltale Games employees would have the opportunity to return as freelancers for the time being, without naming specific names. He also expressed the hope that these freelance positions could be converted into full-time positions over time.

The rights to "The Walking Dead" are held by Skybound. "We are still in the evaluation phase, but our goal is definitely to continue some of the stories," Ottilie says cautiously at the time.

A comparison with "The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series

"The Expanse: A Telltale Series" and "The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series" have many Similaritiesespecially in terms of the narrative mechanics and the player's freedom of choice. Both games place great emphasis on the development of the characters and the relationships between them, which are shaped by the player's decisions. In both games, the decisions made are often morally complex and have far-reaching effects on the course of history.

Despite these similarities, there are also clear differences between the two games. While "The Walking Dead" is set in a post-apocalyptic world and focuses on survival in a world overrun by zombies, "The Expanse" is set in an expansive interstellar environment and focuses on the political and social tensions within a colonized solar system. In addition, "The Expanse" is technically more elaborate, with more detailed character models and environments, while "The Walking Dead" has a more comic-like graphic style.

The Expanse: A Telltale Series - An interstellar adventure with weight

"The Expanse: A Telltale Series" is an atmospheric Sci-fi adventurethat will delight both fans of the series and newcomers alike. With a dense atmosphere, interesting characters and moral decisions that repeatedly put players in dilemmas, Telltale is once again setting standards in the field of virtual storytelling. Despite minor "weaknesses" (I have already cautiously referred to them as such above) in the depiction of facial expressions and emotions The Expanse a must for all those who like to embark on interstellar adventures.

The post The Expanse: A Telltale Series - Interstellar adventure with depth first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

The players start with a central roomwhere the queen resides. From here they command their workers to develop and optimize the nest. This consists of a huge network of storage rooms, nurseries and passages. This involves digging through a labyrinth of hexagonal fields full of soil and rock, searching for food and other Underground dwellers to ward off.

The overworld: a world full of opportunities and challenges

But the game is not limited to the underworld. It applies, across the borders of the nest and discover what the upper world has to offer. With seeds, nectar, mushrooms, other insects and even amphibians on the menu, there's plenty to choose from. But each food source brings its own strategic trade-offs and Challenges with it.

Will we dare to fight the ladybugs that eat and consume the replenishing source of honeydew drops? Or will the nocturnal creatures in the area pose too great a risk to the young colony? Every decision has consequences and can destroy the colony if you don't react quickly to the changing circumstances.

Empires of the Undergrowth - The art of ant warfare

In Empires of the Undergrowth, it is not only important to have a strong base, but also to master the art of war. Players manage a variety of species with different attack patterns, natural weapons and evolutionary paths to overcome the particular dangers of the Undergrowth. current Bioms to fight.

Knowing the ants' behaviors and the strengths and weaknesses of each species is essential for success. Each pheromone group can accept spontaneous orders by being told that they will only collect food, work on the Participate in the fight or do both - the right decision can turn the tide of battle.

Diverse enemies and unique challenges

The enemies in Empires of the Undergrowth are just as diverse as the ant species that players command. In addition to other ant colonies, they also fight against spiders, amphibians, crabs and a variety of insect species. These powerful and often gigantic creatures pose a unique threat to an unprepared colony, and only superior tactics can defeat them.

An encircling maneuver can be used to avoid the paralyzing spray jet of the adult black click beetle, while the Tactical isolation and overpowering individual hermit crabs will bring about their demise faster than they can huddle together to heal.

An insane experiment

In addition to the classic Real-time strategy skirmishes against the AI and unique seasonal challenges, Empires of the Undergrowth also offers a campaign mode with a storyline. Here, players follow the progress of a laboratory experiment involving the mysterious Formica ereptor thief ants, as well as a documentary series exploring the different ant species in their natural habitats.

But not all is as it seems at first. Victory belongs to the players, but a new enemy appears on the battlefield - the hand of a strange creature pierces the sky and shatters half of the reinforcements, while the scientist's evil giggle sounds from beyond. The tide of battle has turned again!

Empires of the Undergrowth is real-time strategy in a miniature world

Empires of the Undergrowth is a fascinating real-time strategy gamewhich takes players into the world of ants. With a multitude of challenges, a complex hierarchy and an impressive variety of ant species and enemies, the game offers hours of fun and ever new challenges. A must for all fans of strategy games and ants!

The post Empires of the Undergrowth: Epic journey into the world of ants first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Not only are players left alone in a barren environment after an accident during the hike and without any supplies worth mentioning, they are also faced with no weapons available. Unlike in many other survival games, it will therefore not be possible to create a One-man army and to solve any problems with violence.

There is no combat in Winter Survival, only survival

Instead, players must find a way to avoid encounters with wild animals in order to survive. But it's not just wolves and bears that can be dangerous. The freezing cold and crippling hunger quickly become a physical and psychological burden. This means players need to find shelter and supplies. The "good" news is that the nameless protagonist is not the first person to be involved in this inhospitable place has to find its way around. A shelter therefore does not necessarily have to be self-built, but can already be found halfway usable.

Players will also be able to pick up abandoned Animal traps from hunters that once roamed the area years ago. This allows smaller animals to be caught and a shelter to be better protected from attacks by predators. To ensure that exploring the game world is not too easy, however, the developers have also built in a weather mechanic that causes sudden snowstorms, excessive snowfall and icy winds. The weather can therefore strike just as relentlessly and suddenly as a pack of wolves.

Save yourself or lose your mind

The harder it is for the players to survive, the more difficult it will be for them, Reality and hallucination from each other. This is ensured by a game element dubbed the "reason mechanic" by the developer. However, the Polish studio behind Winter Survival has not yet revealed how exactly and to what extent this will manifest itself during the actual gameplay.

In any case permanent survival in the mountains is not planned. Rather, the aim is to collect enough supplies to make a trip to an old ranger station on a hill. From there, players can call for help and ultimately be rescued. Whoever manages this can then justifiably call themselves Survivalist name.

The post Winter Survival - Realistic fight for survival in the freezing cold first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

In the role of the farmer or the farmer's wife the first task is toto build a home for the defenders of Hogland. The village may seem modest at first, but it grows with every wall that is built, every tree that is planted and every pig that is tamed. Strategies are discussed and alliances forged in the magnificent halls of the palace, while outside the pigs are busy tilling the land and preparing for the next battles.

Hoglands: Battlefields and pig noses

An important part of Hoglands is, of course, the fight. And where better to work up a sweat than on the battlefield, surrounded by fighting vampire boars? There's always something to do at the center of the action, whether it's forming a defensive line or leading an attack force.

The game offers intuitive controls that make it easy to give orders in the middle of battle. Whether you want to Group of pigs storm into an enemy position or force the troops into a strategic retreat, the fate of the pig army is in the hands of the players. A dance on a knife's edge that requires strategy and quick decisions.

Lots of oink oink for the eye

But it's not just the battles that make Hoglands so remarkable. The detailed graphics and atmospheric music contribute significantly to the mood of the game. The landscapes are designed with great attention to detail and exude a fascinating depth that allows players to fully immerse themselves in the world.

But even away from the landscape, the artistic design of Hoglands first-class. The characters are portrayed with a mixture of humor and charm that will quickly grow on you. From the dorky but lovable pig farmer to the frightening yet somehow cute vampire boars, every character in Hoglands contributes to the game's unique atmosphere.

In Hoglands, a pig rarely comes alone

Although Hoglands is a single-player game at first glance, the real attraction lies in the multiplayer mode. Here, players can work together with their friends to defend the Pig Kingdom. The multiplayer mode not only offers a welcome change from the single-player mode, but also a strategic component.

Joint planning, sharing resources and coordinating attacks - all this makes every game in multiplayer mode a unique experience. But beware: many a friendship could be put to the test when it comes to defending the pig empire!

A peaceful excursion into the world of pigs

Hoglands succeeds in creating a Seemingly simple principle into a versatile game. It's more than just a strategy game - it's a mixture of Humor, Art, Society and combat. Hoglands offers an impressive package of a detailed world, a strategic combat system and a multiplayer mode that strengthens (or puts to the test) friendships. It's a game that lets you escape the daily grind for a few hours and immerse yourself in the bizarre but fascinating world of fighting pigs.

The post Hoglands - Brave pigs against vampire wild boars first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

With a rifle against dinosaurs

Games like Dino Crisis still work today, apart from the outdated gameplay. Instinction nevertheless polishes up the intellectual template. More than 20 different species of dinosaurs make the players the Life to hell. If you don't get to the top early End of the food chain is quickly processed into fresh meat. In between the shooting, all kinds of environmental puzzles beg for attention.

In a way, the shooter is similar to later Tomb Raider or Uncharted games, although the atmosphere is far darker and more threatening. Don't worry, by the way, if the Goddess of luck in solo mode The co-op feature allows you to invite up to three friends to explore the swamps, forests and caves together.

Top graphics thanks to Unreal Engine 5

Stylistically, Instinction corresponds to its quasi-stepbrothers. It goes without saying that the graphics are completely new. The developers have given the shooter a realization with the Unreal Engine 5 on the Body tailor-made. The player consistently feels transported into a semi-open world in which every step can mean inevitable death. When Giant dinosaurs in the firmament or velociraptors creeping through the corridors, goosebumps are guaranteed. If the gameplay is even half as good as the graphics, the dinosaur shooter has great potential to make a lasting impression on the entire industry.

Is Instinction more than Hammer optics?

In any case, it is clear that the developers seem to know what they are doing with the action adventure are planning. The release is currently scheduled for the second half of 2023, so further trailers can be expected in the coming months. It is worth staying on the ball and waiting for the next development steps. It is simply too early to draw a comprehensive conclusion at the moment.

The post Instinction - At eye level with the lizards first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Viking wedding

In Sons of Valhalla, players slip into the muscular shell of Thorald Olavson, who is facing the ruins of his life. Having just returned from a successful campaign, the seasoned Viking finds his home village in flames. His father is dead and Thorald's wife has been abducted by a hostile Jarl named Valgard. Thorald learns that the Jarl has escaped to England to plunder and pillage, and of course to use his kidnapped slave girls for more than just cuddling at night.

To free his wife from the butcher's clutches, Thorald sets off on a journey to England. However, his dragon boat is caught in a devastating storm. The ship is wrecked and Thorald's crew fall victim to the floods. Only his old master survives and together the two Vikings set about the arduous task of regaining their strength in unknown lands.

War drums in Sons of Valhalla

Before the players in Sons of Valhalla can move on from Publisher Hooded Horse can enter the deadly duel against Valgard, they must first fight their way through various henchmen. As the Jarl had a big head start, he was already able to build some fortifications in England and gather his troops.

Thorald also has to raise an army to support him in battle. To do this, the Viking needs resources in the form of gold, fish and wood. Thorald must also secure basic supplies in his bases by building a fishing hut, hiring wood collectors or having barracks built. These buildings also help to Strengthening the base and offer opportunities for improvement so that, for example, more raw materials can be collected.

If the players have finally a troop of warriors recruited, they can rush into battle with the army. Thorald can cut a bloody swathe in close combat as well as command his armies from a distance. Successful battles bring booty. However, when Thorald is on the battlefield, he goes straight to the underworld.

Will to fight

Death is not the end in Sons of Valhalla. First it goes down into the realm of Hel. The goddess of the dead offers Thorald a fair chance. If the players are able to defeat Hel in a duel, they return to their last conquered base and can rejoin the battle. A second start offers opportunities to rethink your strategy, gather new resources or reorganize your troops to make better progress in the next battle.

However, if you lose against Hel, you go to the Underworld on. The game progress is reset and the players have to slash their way through England all over again. It therefore makes sense to use the opportunities in life to build siege weapons, for example, or to properly strengthen the team instead of rushing into battle unprepared. Otherwise, a bad battle can spell the end of the Viking adventure from Thorald!

The post Sons of Valhalla - A Viking life with ups and downs first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

The scenario takes place after a violent conflict between two factions on a distant planet. After the gamer awakens as a humanoid, the dispute between cyborg-affine and Living beings-The recycling side is probably over because of the wasteland around the player - right? It is at least a curious end-time scenario. And what's with the parasitic creatures back there?

Gloomy scenario in Scorn with varied arcs of suspense

The Areas in Scorn are interlinked, but always offer new aspects on the exploration tour through the game distributed by Kepler Interactive and therefore also a non-linear plot. As in a surreal world similar to an even creepier Alice in Wonderland novel, the horror fan masters the path along an organic world with different, independent characters and puzzles - except that there is not one path, but one of many selectable directions.

The impressions that present themselves increase the demands on the gamer in terms of orientation and Survival instinct. They are not usually interpreted correctly at first glance. But it is precisely this disillusionment with familiar reality that turns this horror game into a real highlight. Over time, the gamer unlocks new areas again and again, immersing themselves in yet another scary world - in principle, the game is more of an interactive survival artwork than a pure entertainment game.

But even in the latter, the spooky adventurer gets his money's worth. In the not entirely homely surroundings, the focus is not only on admiring an abnormal world and searching for orientation, but also on certain objects and weapons: Yes, these will prove to be quite useful in the course of the game. After all, there are some clashes with parasitic life forms.

Creepy discovery tour in a technical-organic world

Scorn consists of a coherent world, which can only be explored step by step. Without any cutscenes or extra storytelling, the somewhat different tourist trail in the unknown area results in an uncertain and oppressive experience. Atmosphere. This anxiety is supported by the dark color spectrum of the labyrinths. This is precisely what characterizes the individual areas: A respective maze of paths and rooms. Added to this is the helplessness of being alone.

But what could be scarier than a running zombie horde? A constantly breathing, all-encompassing living construct that forms the actual world - and organic cyborgs that are always in the way. The gamer constantly feels like the next snack of an oversized carnivorous plant and must also pay attention to clues and objects during this experience that constricts their own airways - because the game from Ebb Software and the dystopian-organic world simply do not forgive carelessness. The horror game is characterized by completely realistic gameplay. The player's hands are the most important elements.

Items and weapons

In particular, picking up objects and operating simpler devices or more complex machines at the respective control panels creates a real scenario. A futuristic characteristic is also added: a bloodthirsty world - taken over by a living organism - with a few infested creatures invites you to a very special survival adventure. The gamer determines his own path: does he prefer to move forward unnoticed or will he learn to love the use of effective, organic weapon systems?

With regard to the enormous 4 weapon categories, a real fight for survival ensues, as the player character's connection with the parasite promotes its use. However, the player's own body is always heading for a near-death experience if the parasite gains the upper hand. Then it's time to find a suitable means of getting an electrical circuit going - the repair of a broken elevator comes in handy.

The combination of both styles will probably be more advisable with limited and predetermined equipment in the sense of a redeeming finish. Disturbing creatures The totally captivating flair of the horror adventure game is determined by the strange behavior, the puzzle solutions required to progress or discover things and the management of your own resources, which will certainly lead you to experiment and rethink your own gameplay. Scorn thus graphically and acoustically offers a setting that has come to life a la H. R. Giger and clearly scores with its mix of mysticism and horror scenario par excellence.

The post Scorn - Alone in a bizarre world - Review first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Instead, Path of Titans offers us the opportunity to take control of powerful and impressive Dinosaurs which are controlled from a third-person perspective. The basic task is to complete quests with the prehistoric lizards, collect experience points and so the survival of the dinosaurs.

The individual needs of the dinosaurs in Path of Titans

To the playful strengths of According to the developers, the fact that players can choose from 26 dinosaurs - including twelve carnivores and 14 herbivores - is part of Path of Titans. The playable prehistoric lizards include the Alioramus, the Spinosaurus, the Styracosaurus and the impressive Stegosaurus. As each of the dinosaur species has its own individual behavior and needs, each of the lizards plays differently.

At the same time, appropriate strategies must be devised to ensure the survival of your own giant. In the visual area, various customization options provide variety, while experience points are collected by successfully completing quests and events, which can be invested in the obligatory Level Ups culminate.

The skill points collected in this way can in turn be invested in different attributes to increase your Dinosaurs and tailor them for survival in a dangerous world.

A housing system and cross-play support

According to the developers of Path of Titans Alderon Games was developed with the aim of enabling dinosaur enthusiasts to slip into the role of their favorite lizards and lead an exciting virtual life with them in a prehistoric world. The "Home Cave" housing system acts as the basis and pivotal point of your own adventure, allowing you to move into your own cave and continuously expand it.

To ensure your own survival, you can use skills such as swimming, diving or fishing and join forces with up to 200 other players on a server to master particularly tricky quests and the associated challenges. Rewards to collect. At the same time, it will of course be possible to compete in PvP duels to determine the king of the jungle.

Other features of the ambitious dinosaur MMO include the fact that the final version with will feature full cross-play support. This means that players on PC, the consoles and the mobile platform interact and form cross-platform groups.

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Instead of being transported to the vastness of space or a deserted island, Grounded takes you to a backyard at home. You slip into the role of people who have been shrunk to the size of ants and are confronted with all kinds of dangers in Grounded. The Struggle for survival from both the third and first-person perspective.

A safe haven in Grounded: Your own base

Your base is the hub of your adventures, which you can customize with numerous walls, floor coverings and other extras. But as secure as your base is, you will be forced to upgrade your base at regular intervals. Shelter and set off in search of resources. The focus is of course on the search for Food and water to prevent your character from losing life energy due to hunger or dehydration.

But it's not just food and water that you have to look for. At the same time, you can explore the backyard or Garden either alone or in multiplayer with other players to collect raw materials. These can then be used to create weapons such as axes, bows or swords, which can be of crucial importance in the fight against the aggressive insects.

You can also produce traps, items for your base or tools that speed up the extraction of resources.

All kinds of insects: The inhabitants of the game world

As mentioned at the beginning, your heroes are limited to a size of just a few millimetres. shrunk the insects that inhabit the garden can quickly become a deadly danger. Spiders, bees and aggressive ants in particular will hunt you down. Other insects, on the other hand, can become valuable allies. While aphids, for example, can be caught and cooked to be eaten as food, ladybugs will lead you to aphids and other resources.

With increasing playing time and the associated progress, the threats and the level of difficulty are constantly increasing. Especially in the night the Insects are more aggressive and hunt your characters mercilessly. This means that, in addition to skill in battle, a clever strategic approach is also required. And to the arachnophobes among you: If necessary, it is possible to completely remove the spiders from the game at the touch of a button.

Especially in multiplayer, Grounded since the launch It has been a great success and has already attracted one or two imitators. Among them Smallandwhich treads similar paths both visually and in terms of gameplay and Merge Games is created.

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A gigantic world full of gimmicks

In order to react optimally in the event of an apocalypse, over 50 weapons are available in "Dead Matter". Vehicles are also available to move effectively through the gigantic world of the game. But it's not just the numerous features that are in the foreground. Dead Matter gets its uniqueness from the numerous customization options. Not only can weapons, vehicles and other accessories be adapted to your own needs, but captured houses can also be designed and decorated as you wish. This clearly sets the survival shooter apart from its competitors.

A promising multi-player mode

In addition to the well-known Open-World-In addition to the gameplay, players will also have access to various multiplayer campaigns in which they can complete missions together with friends or players from all over the world. However, the focus is always on the zombie apocalypse and the task of bringing the undead back to hell.

Originally intended as a mod

Dead Matter was not originally intended to be a game in its own right, but a mod for Crysis 2. However, the developers quickly discovered the potential and developed an independent game. The publishers planned to launch the game in Early Access on Steam in 2018. Dead Matter has so far only made it to "Greenlight" status on Steam, but will continue to be served with updates. On the QI Games page states: "While we are aiming for an Early Access release in 2022, we will make this decision later in the year as development progresses to determine if this is a viable release window for us in the year."

By a lucky coincidence, I was able to "grab" one of the few keys and have already had a look inside the game. Zombie survival fans can really look forward to something big here.

The post Dead Matter - Zombie apocalypse in a gigantic world first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Struggle for survival in the lap of the local town hall

In this survival co-op game from Flat Tail Studios AB the player tries to protect himself and the Town Hall alone or, much more exciting and complex, in a team with up to 3 other survival-hungry players. During the day, there are therefore a number of upgrades and improvements to be made in order to create sufficient barriers and protective measures. Because at night - well - at night the gamers tend to shiver and long for the coming dawn due to the dangers running towards them. Impending danger caused the player and, if they so chose, their fellow players to seek refuge in the city's sanctuary: In Last Farewell, however, the town hall does not turn out to be the impregnable fortress that was hoped for.

And so, in the area between the walls and the entrance portal, some Obstacles be procured. In situations like this, it would have been nice to do without the communal spring-cleaning and have more scrap in stock. Gradually, the gameplay extends to the attentive search for resources. These can be used to optimize the defense in Last Farewell and strengthen it over time. This will be sorely needed, as an increased number of enemies seem to seek the gamer's life after every surviving night.

A stable line of defense by all means

The defensive strategy par excellence is to block possible gates and passages. This requires a lot of supplies and tools. That was obvious: unfortunately, the resources you need for your own protection are not available in the accessible drawers of the town hall. You have to find them and use all kinds of wooden slats and other bulky materials to secure any weak points and reliably seal them off against the approaching adversaries. Here you actually have to do a little Creativity to be the rule. What initially promises a happy ending with a successful survival quickly turns into lingering shock sequences between ever-increasing waves of enemies.

You have to cover each other's unprotected backs and gain a lot of experience for each round you survive. And then it's done, or is it just the calm before the storm? In any case, after the onslaught, the gamer doesn't devote himself to his mental recovery, but to repairing or Repair of all barricades. The increasing waves of attacks will inevitably lead to death in the foreseeable future. But here lies a great feature of the Flat Tail Studios AB buried: Living as well as dying increases the experience level - of course significantly more when surviving. These experience levels in turn unlock new options for your own protection - psssst! But the danger will also increase!

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