HoYoverse has begun pre-installation for the major Genshin Impact (Free) version 5.0 “Flowers Resplendent on the Sun-Scorched Sojourn” update for on supported platforms. If you’ve not followed the game recently, Genshin Impact 5.0 brings in the sixth nation: Natlan, new characters like Mualani, reruns for Raiden Shogun, and much more. The update will launch beginning August 28th for mobile, PC, PS5, and PS4 with the game launching on Xbox Series X this November. The first Genshin Impact 5.0 banner features: Mualani, Kachina and Kaedehara Kazuha while banner 2 has Kinich and Raiden Shogun. This update is also supposed to bring in updated visuals. Read about that here. Watch the new Genshin Impact trailer for Kachina below:
You can pre-install it by tapping the pre-install resource package button. The download size is 2.67GB on iOS and about 16GB on PC. If you’d like to play Genshin Impact and don’t own it yet, you can download it for free on the App Store for iOS here and on Google Play for Android here. The PC version is available on the official website here and the Epic Games Store. If you play on iOS, with iOS 14.5 or iPadOS 14.5 and later, you can use PS5 and Xbox Series X|S controllers to play Genshin Impact. We featured Genshin Impact as our Game of the Week when it released and awarded it our 2020 Game of the Year. I also featured it as one of the best iOS games to play with a controller. What do you think of Genshin Impact 5.0 so far?
The virtual doors of OSFest 2024 have swung open, welcoming creators, builders, merchants, performers, and sponsors to begin crafting their digital spaces. This annual event, hosted on the OpenSim Fest grid, is set to run from October 4 through October 20, 2024, offering a diverse platform for virtual exhibitions, performances, and commerce.
Lisa Laxton
“The grid is open for participants to build or bring in their creations via the hypergrid,” said Lisa Laxton, OSFest director and founder of the Infinite Metaverse Alliance and Laxton Consulting.
Based on the feedback from previous events, OSFest now has a new mainland layout, she told Hypergrid Business. There are also small sponsor parcels available at US$3 each for other grids or region owners looking to increase their visibility in the hypergrid community and promote their grids.
There is also a limited number of free parcels available for exhibitors and merchants, paid for by sponsors.
OSFest is also looking for volunteers to join the OSFest team and help get everything ready for the event, and to help out during the festival itself.
For more information, check out the event’s home page, or the FAQ page.
The festival will feature 110 hours of performer events and 84 hours dedicated to exhibits, stores, and interactive activities. In a nod to the broader virtual community, OSFest has also allocated eight hours for satellite events on other grids, encouraging cross-platform participation.
OSFest 2024. (Image courtesy Lisa Laxton.)
Most of the 110 hours of performer slots are already booked, Laxton said, and merchant sales event times have been scheduled. There are non-music events and activities on the schedule as well, she added.
“Some participants have started or will soon bring in their builds, and the content infrastructure is ongoing with expected updates on the website, calendar, and Discord server,” she said. “This is the fun and exciting time leading up to opening day.”
This year’s festival breaks new ground by eschewing a unifying theme, a decision made through community vote. This approach promises an eclectic mix of exhibits, stores, and performances, reflecting the diverse interests of the virtual world community. Adding to the fresh feel, the grid layout has been completely redesigned, offering new experiences for both returning participants and first-time visitors.
Participants can access the grid via hypergrid using the address: grid.opensimfest.com:8022:OSF_HGWelcome.
Organizers are encouraging early setup, with a target completion date set for late September.
OSFest 2024 is Gloebit-enabled, allowing for virtual transactions within the grid.
Various sponsorship levels are available for those wishing to support the event financially.
Hypergrid Business editor and publisher Maria Korolov is a science fiction novelist. During the day, Maria Korolov is an award-winning freelance technology journalist who covers artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and enterprise virtual reality. See her Amazon author page here and follow her on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, and check out her latest videos on the Maria Korolov YouTube channel. Email her at maria@hypergridbusiness.com. Her first virtual world novella, Krim Times, made the Amazon best-seller list in its category. Her second novella, The Lost King of Krim, is out now. She is also the publisher of MetaStellar, a new online magazine of speculative fiction.
High-end perfumes have long been associated with gender-specific scents, but a new trend is emerging in the fragrance industry. Luxury unisex perfumes are gaining popularity among discerning consumers who seek sophisticated aromas that aren’t easily pigeonholed.
These innovative fragrances blend complex notes to create scents that appeal to all, regardless of gender identity. From niche boutique brands to established perfume houses, luxury unisex fragrances allow individuals to express themselves through scent without conforming to conventional expectations.
This article explores the world of luxury unisex scents, examining their rise in popularity and the artistry behind their creation.
Defining Characteristics of the Top Luxury Unisex Perfumes
Top luxury unisex perfumes mix smells that appeal to everyone. They play with woods, musks, and fresh notes like bergamot and orange blossom. This blend creates a unique aroma that doesn’t lean too masculine or feminine.
Imagine the warmth of sandalwood combined with the freshness of bergamot. That’s what makes these fragrances stand out.
Signature scents such as Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 draw people in with their special mix of jasmine, saffron, and cedarwood. It’s all about finding a scent that feels personal yet can be worn by anyone.
These perfumes use ingredients like oud, vetiver, and tonka bean to make an unforgettable smell.
Luxury unisex perfumes bridge the gap between genders with their universal appeal.
Olfactive families and common notes
Luxury unisex perfumes blend various olfactive families to create scents that both men and women love. Woody, musky, floral, and citrus notes are common in these fragrances. For example, Le Labo Santal 33 offers a woody scent with cardamom and sandalwood.
Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria shines with its bright citrus notes. These perfumes might also have patchouli or black pepper for depth.
Each unisex fragrance mixes top, middle, and base notes to last all day. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 uses amber and floral scents as base notes to add warmth. Byredo Gypsy Water combines fresh lemon with pine needles in its top notes for an immediate allure.
This careful layering makes each gender-neutral perfume unique.
Signature scents and their allure
Signature scents make people feel unique. They blend distinctive notes like pink pepper and black tea to create a personal smell that stands out. This is why brands like Jo Malone London and Chanel Sycomore put so much work into their fragrances. They know that a special scent can tell your story without words.
People love these perfumes because they offer more than just a nice smell. They bring back memories or give feelings of confidence and comfort. Every bottle, from Maison Margiela to Calvin Klein CK One, is crafted to strike the perfect balance between aromatic richness and gender-neutral appeal.
Choosing a signature scent becomes an intimate journey of finding the fragrance that matches your personality perfectly.
Highlighting Seventeen Iconic Unisex Perfumes
These iconic unisex perfumes offer diverse olfactive experiences suitable for various individuals’ preferences.
1. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 has emerged as an outstanding creation in the fragrance industry. Introduced in 2015, this gender-neutral scent showcases middle notes of jasmine and saffron, accompanied by cedarwood to add a masculine touch.
Its distinctive blend has garnered significant admiration from perfume aficionados in search of gender-inclusive scents. The fragrance is particularly coveted for its minimalist design.
Amid the increasing popularity of unisex perfumes shaping the market, Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 maintains a prominent position.
Baccarat Rouge 540 Maison Francis Kurkdjian
2. Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria
Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria is a unisex fragrance known for its fresh, citrusy scent. It’s part of the Blu Mediterraneo collection by Acqua di Parma, which draws inspiration from the Italian Mediterranean.
This fragrance features top notes of bergamot, citron, and lemon with a heart of ginger and cedar wood. The combination evokes the essence of the Calabrian summer and creates a lively and uplifting aroma perfect for both men and women seeking an invigorating perfume experience.
3. Bentley Magnetic Amber Eau de Parfum
Bentley Magnetic Amber Eau de Parfum is a unisex fragrance by Bentley, a renowned British luxury car brand. Launched in 2023, this perfume was created by Karine Dubreuil-Sereni.
Falling into the woody spicy olfactive family, this elegant fragrance features top notes of bergamot and rosemary, while base notes include white amber, vanilla, tonka bean and cedarwood. The heart features olibanum oil and cardamom oil.
With its allure emanating from the fusion of woody and herbal scents, it has gained popularity as a sophisticated and versatile fragrance suitable for both men and women. The faceted 400g flacon is engraved with the iconic winged B logo.
4. Chanel Sycomore
Chanel Sycomore is a woody fragrance that belongs to the olfactive family of warm and floral musk scents. It features notes of sandalwood, vetiver, and pink pepper which contribute to its alluring and distinctive aroma.
As one of the iconic luxury unisex perfumes, Chanel Sycomore is appealing to those interested in genderless fragrances.
Introduced in 2008, Chanel Sycomore meets the ever-evolving demand for customized and personalized fragrances in an era where consumers are looking for more than just a pleasant aroma.
As part of this trend in the luxury unisex perfume market, Chanel Sycomore stands out for its ability to deliver a sophisticated yet approachable scent experience that captures the essence of modern luxury.
5. Le Labo Santal 33
Le Labo Santal 33 exudes sophistication and allure. This unisex perfume has gained a cult following for its unique blend of sandalwood, cardamom, and leather notes.
Launched in 2011, it has risen to prominence as one of the best unisex fragrances appreciated by both men and women alike.
The unique aroma lies in its unparalleled combination of ingredients, making it a sought-after choice that resonates with modern fragrance preferences.
Upscale unisex fragrances – Le Labo 33
6. Byredo Gypsy Water
Byredo Gypsy Water presents itself as a unisex fragrance celebrated for its fusion of citrus and woody notes. Infused with touches of juniper berries, lemon, and incense, it presents a vibrant and grounded aroma that appeals to people of all genders.
Introduced in 2008, it has garnered favor as a versatile and natural scent suitable for a range of settings. The minimalist bottle features the brand’s signature black domed top.
This fragrance epitomizes the growing movement toward all-encompassing scents that accommodate varied preferences, positioning it as one of the remarkable luxury unisex perfumes in today’s industry.
7. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette
One of our personal favorites, Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette is known for containing a single note fragrance of Iso E Super. It was created by perfumer Geza Schoen in 2006, and quickly gained popularity due to its unique minimalist approach.
This unisex fragrance offers a subtle, velvety, woody scent with undertones of cedarwood and warm musk. Its intriguing simplicity has garnered a dedicated following among both men and women seeking an understated yet alluring aroma.
The discreet character of this perfume allows it to blend seamlessly with the wearer’s natural pheromones, resulting in an individualized scent experience.
Escentric Molecules fragrance
8. Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Eau de Parfum Intense
Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Eau de Parfum Intense is a captivating unisex fragrance known for its warm and luxurious scent. It combines the rich, resinous myrrh with sweet, almond-like tonka bean.
This distinctive combination appeals to both men and women looking for a sophisticated and opulent scent that lingers throughout the day.
Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Eau de Parfum Intense has received positive reviews from fragrance enthusiasts and critics alike, solidifying its status as one of the top luxury unisex perfumes.
With its timeless appeal and exceptional versatility, this fragrance continues to be a sought-after option for those seeking an exquisite olfactory experience.
9. BDK Gris Charnel
BDK Gris Charnel offers an enticing blend with notes such as vetiver and caraway, created for those in search of a unique scent. Launched in 2019, this oriental spicy fragrance unlocks a truly personalized olfactive experience.
The top notes of black tea, cardamom and fig, combine artfully with middle notes of vetiver and iris, and base notes of tonka bean and sandalwood.
With its distinctive mix of elements and meticulously developed production process, BDK Gris Charnel stands out as a leader among iconic unisex perfumes, catering to individuals who value both intricacy and sophistication in their scents.
BDK Gris Charnel
10. Commodity Gold
Commodity Gold is a renowned unisex fragrance known for its warm and inviting scent. It incorporates bergamot, juniper berries, and camphor to create a fresh and vibrant top note.
The heart of this oriental fragrance reveals amber, vetiver and benzoin for an aromatic twist. Finally, it settles into a rich base of tonka bean, sandalwood, vanilla and musk- providing a luxurious depth that appeals to both men and women.
This versatile perfume has garnered popularity due to its unique combination of ingredients that give it an enduring appeal in the ever-changing market of luxury fragrances. Gold by Commodity offers an olfactory experience that is ideal for layering over other scents.
11. Atelier Cologne Clémentine California
Atelier Cologne Clémentine California is a unisex perfume known for its fresh and citrusy scent. It features notes of clementine, juniper berries, and vetiver, creating a vibrant and invigorating aroma.
Launched in 2016, this fragrance has gained popularity for its long-lasting formula that combines the essence of sunny California with the elegance of French perfumery. The blend of citrus and woody notes makes it a versatile choice for both men and women looking for a refreshing yet sophisticated scent.
The perfume comes in a distinctive clear glass bottle with an elegant two-tone cap, embodying the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and luxury. Atelier Cologne has positioned Clémentine California as part of their Absolue Collection line, which emphasizes modernity and refinement.
Clementine California by Atelier Cologne Paris
12. MALIN+GOETZ Dark Rum
MALIN+GOETZ Dark Rum is a unisex fragrance that’s adored for its distinct fusion of warm and spicy notes. The scent harmonizes top notes of bergamot and plum with middle notes of leather and rum and boasts base notes of amber, patchouli, and milk for a luxurious and extravagant olfactory experience.
Since its launch in 2010, this aromatic fruity fragrance has garnered praise for its long-lasting presence on the skin, making it a lasting choice for those in pursuit of a refined yet adaptable fragrance.
A remarkable feature of MALIN+GOETZ Dark Rum is its appeal to people of all genders—it’s crafted to be savored by everyone, irrespective of gender.
13. Diptyque Philosykos
Diptyque Philosykos, a unisex scent in the woody aromatic fragrance category, encapsulates the spirit of a Greek fig grove during the summer. With hints of fig tree leaves, wood, and white cedar, it radiates a fresh and natural aroma.
Olivia Giacobetti created the scent, which debuted in 1996. The distinct combination has established Diptyque Philosykos as a favored option for both genders.
Its lasting allure is its capacity to conjure visions of vibrant Mediterranean scenery with each spray. This classic fragrance remains a top selection for individuals in search of an authentic and adaptable unisex aroma.
Diptyque Philosykos
14. Tom Ford Noir Extreme
Introduced in 2015, Tom Ford Noir Extreme is celebrated for its rich and spicy aroma, featuring notable hints of amber, vanilla, and kulfi.
This oriental woody scent has played a pivotal role in the upscale unisex fragrance market since its introduction. Blending notes of mandarin orange, kulfi, jasmine, sandalwood and rose absolute, the result is a resounding success.
15. Maison Margiela REPLICA By The Fireplace
Maison Margiela REPLICA By The Fireplace is a unisex perfume with woody and spicy notes. It captures the ambiance of frosty mornings, with a blend of strong tobacco, vanilla, and leather scents.
Launched in 2015, this fragrance was created to embody the cosy atmosphere of a warm fireplace in Wintertime. The warm and rich aroma makes it ideal for both men and women who appreciate sophisticated, alluring scents.
REPLICA By The Fireplace offers a unique blend featuring pink pepper, orange flower petal, clove, juniper oil, chestnut, Peruvian balm, guaiac wood oil and Cashmeran, setting it apart from typical perfumes.
This distinct combination appeals to individuals seeking an unconventional yet elegant fragrance that stands out in today’s constantly changing perfume market.
Maison Margiela fragrance
16. House of Bō Espiritu
House of Bō Espiritu is a rising star in the world of gender-neutral fragrances. Their selection features genderless perfumes that cater to a wide range of preferences.
Embodying the essence of luxury, House of Bō Espiritu offers an exclusive line that aims to create a mindful experience rather than just a fragrance.
The American fragrance brand places emphasis on tailored scent creation, supporting its commitment to providing unique olfactory experiences for individuals seeking luxurious yet gender-neutral fragrances.
17. Calvin Klein CK One
Calvin Klein CK One has established itself as a unisex fragrance icon since its launch in 1994. This fresh and clean scent was groundbreaking in reshaping gender norms in the perfume industry.
The brand’s innovative marketing broadened the fragrance audience beyond traditional gender boundaries.
This aromatic blend features notes of bergamot, cardamom, pineapple, papaya, jasmine, violet, rose, nutmeg, musk, and amber creating an invigorating yet subtle allure that appeals to both men and women alike.
It perfectly embodies simplicity and modernity, making it a timeless addition to anyone’s fragrance collection. The understated yet captivating nature of CK One illustrates how luxury unisex perfumes can be inclusive and diverse without compromising elegance or quality.
CK One gift set
Trends in the Luxury Unisex Perfume Market
The luxury unisex perfume market is experiencing a significant increase in gender-neutral marketing. Brands are increasingly focused on creating scents that appeal to everyone, challenging traditional notions of fragrance categorization.
This change in approach has led to a more inclusive and diverse range of perfumes, catering to a wider audience. Moreover, there have been notable innovations in scent creation techniques within the luxury unisex perfume market.
Perfumers are exploring unique combinations of notes and ingredients to develop intricate yet versatile fragrances that defy conventional boundaries and appeal to a broad range of consumers.
In general, the luxury unisex perfume market is undergoing a transformation characterized by a focus on creative olfactive expression. This trend reflects a growing demand for perfumes suitable for all individuals.
The rise of gender-neutral marketing
Luxury unisex perfumes are gaining traction due to the rise of gender-neutral marketing. Brands are defying traditional gender stereotypes in the fragrance industry by creating scents that appeal to all.
This shift has paved the way for a more inclusive approach, breaking away from conventional male or female-oriented fragrances and embracing diversity in scent preferences. The market is witnessing an increase in genderless packaging and advertising campaigns, promoting perfumes as a personal expression rather than being restricted to specific genders.
The shift towards gender-neutral marketing reflects a broader cultural move towards inclusivity and diversity. Major brands are acknowledging the importance of appealing to a wider audience by offering scents that cater to individual tastes rather than predetermined gender norms.
As a result, consumers have more choices when selecting luxury fragrances, leading to greater freedom of self-expression through scent without limitations based on traditional gender labels.
Innovations in scent creation
Innovations in scent creation have transformed the perfume industry. Progress in technology and chemistry has enabled perfumers to explore new ingredients and extraction methods, resulting in distinctive and long-lasting fragrances.
For example, the use of headspace technology allows perfumers to capture the scent molecules that surround an object or environment, enabling them to replicate natural scents such as fresh flowers or exotic fruits with exceptional accuracy.
Furthermore, sustainable practices are increasingly prominent in fragrance production, with brands utilizing eco-friendly extraction processes and ethical sourcing of raw materials to reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality.
Customization has also gained popularity in scent creation. Perfume houses now offer personalized fragrance experiences where customers can create their own tailored scents to match their individual preferences.
This trend not only boosts consumer engagement but also indicates a shift towards more inclusive and diverse olfactive expressions within the market.
Conclusion: The Future of Luxury Unisex Perfumes
The world of luxury unisex perfumes is constantly changing. Gender-neutral marketing is on the rise, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences. Innovations in scent creation continue to shape the realm of luxury fragrances.
These top perfumes showcase the industry’s dedication to personalized scents that appeal to all. As we explore an ever-evolving market, it’s evident that luxury unisex perfumes are here to stay.
Hi guys, we are back with another new Rush Royale Guide, and Today we will tell you Rush Royale Bosses Guide & How to Counter All Bosses in Rush Royale. I have seen so many new players asking these questions that How to Counter Tribunal In rush royale, How to beat Badlam In rush royale.
If you don’t know how to play against particular bosses then this guide is for you, this Rush Royale Bosses Guide will help you to counter all boss in rush royale so without wasting any time let’s get into it.
Tamer,
Gorgon,
Bedlam,
Warlock,
Tribunal.
Currently there are 5 bosses in rush royale and every bosses has it’s unique ability, for me Tamer and Gorgon are very easy to counter in game but when you are playing against Warlock, Bedlam, and tribunal you should use some strategy which I am going to to tell in this post.
How to counter All Bosses in Rush Royale:
1.) Tamer:
Tamer is one of the easiest boss in the game, The ability of tamer is very simple he summons a portal which spawns minions these minions do spawn behind tamer, you can easily kill him with your level 1 dps cards. If tamer is your first boss that appears during pvp it’s very easy to counter but if tamer is like the 4th or 5th boss then It’ sis going to be very though to counter tamer.
2.) Gorgon
Gorgon is also a very easy to kill, her main ability is she truned you units into rocks, that mean when the units are turned to stone they can’t do any damagemand those units can’t attack gorgon so keep in mind that scince she truned your two units into rocks make sure you have filled your board with as much as possible having more units on the board.
I will recommend you to fill your board with High DPS units, Like Enigineer, Sharpshooter etc etc..
3.) Tribunal:
Tribunal is one of the most hated boss in rush royale and I am sure you are looking for How tribunal works ? how to counter trinbul without loosing your units on board, so now let’s talk about how to counter tribunal & tribunal ability.
Tribunal ability is very diffrent from other bosses, He downgrades half your units by 1 level so more units on the board means more units downgraded or lost.
Basically Tribunal lowers 50% of your cards by 1 tier
Tribunal doesn’t destroy units, it lowers their merge rank, and if their merge rank is 1, they die
if their merge rank is 2, tribunal will downgrade them to rank 1
If you have 11 cards on boards so it will attack on 6 cards instead of 5 cards so make sure you have an even number when he uses his ability also there is one more trick to beat trinbul in rush royale.
When you are playing against tribunal, you can save your mana and Once Tribunal uses his ability you can spam units with the mana you saved up to kill him easily this trick is used by many players and It works well.
4.) Warlock:
This boss is easy to kill in compare to tribunal, If I talk about warlock ability He throws a 1 fireball and that fireball targets and destroy your 1 random unit.
5.) Bedlam:
Just like tribunal, Bedlam is also one of the most hated boss in rush royale, and many people don’t know how to counter bedlam and what kind of deck and cards works well against him.
First of all let’s talk about his ability is He changes your every cards/units on your board into an alternative random cards/units, It’s very difficult to defeat bedlam in rush royale but not impossibe even if you are lucky enough you can kill Bedlam before he uses his ability.
yes it is possible to kill bedlam before he uses his ability, you just need Bombardier and few high DPS cards in your deck. why we need bombarider ?? because Bombardier has ability to stun a boss for few seconds, and when Bombardier will stun the bedlam, you high DPS cards can kill him before he uses his ability.
6.) Puppeteer:
You’ll be able to meet Puppeteer in the PvP mode and on the 60th wave in Co-Op mode. Unlike the other bosses, Puppeteer features not one but two nasty abilities that he will use in turns to affect your units.
First ability: Reduces the mana power-up level of all units by 1.
Second ability: shifts your field in one direction by one cell. Units on the edge in that direction are moved to the other side.
In conclusion. I will just say if you are a new player or begginer in rush royal, just wait because you will learn everything by time & experience. The more you will play, the more you will learn so that’s it for
I hope you all liked reading this Rush Royale Bosses Guide | How to Counter All Boss in Rush Royale post.
I’m a simple man. Give me an old-school first-person dungeon crawler and I’m a pretty happy guy. Make one centered around rescuing a cat and, oh boy, now you’re really speaking my language. Throw in a really unique touchscreen control scheme that I’ve never seen in a game of this type before and we’ve got a winner winner chicken-that-you-found-in-a-barrel dinner. That accurately describes Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat from developer ZombiSoft, who appears to be just a single person named Anders Gustavsson. There are some rough edges here, and some negative things to note, but by and large I’m just having a super good time with Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
So as the story goes, you’re an apprentice wizard who is tasked with finding the runaway cat of your mentor wizard, and you graduating to become a full-blown wizard hinges on you completing this mission. Just when you think you’ve cornered the adorable little feline you find yourself transported to a dungeon labyrinth filled with traps and enemies. You also spot the kitty roaming around and so your mission now becomes more difficult as you try to make your way through this dungeon alive as well as rescue your boss’s pesky little cat.
Now, Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat isn’t a highly complex game by any means. There’s some light RPG elements in the form of leveling up and finding cool new weapons and gear, but there’s no party system or any extensive character progression. It reminds me a lot of Questlord in that it’s a pretty simple affair mechanically but the story, the visuals, and the personality of the game compel you to keep moving forward. Also, just because this game is bright and colorful and has a fairly straightforward design don’t think it’s some pushover. The game actually gets rather difficult rather quickly, but thankfully you can save anytime and anywhere, which is something you should practice doing often.
The really neat feature here is the control scheme. You can choose between virtual arrows or swipe gestures for directional movement, which is pretty par for the course. But if you lay a second thumb down on the screen you can free look in any direction. It takes a little getting used to but the swipe gesture movement coupled with the free look gesture combines to make for a very satisfying touchscreen control scheme. It almost feels like you’re playing a first-person shooter at times, once you get comfortable and start zipping around to and fro, but you’re actually still playing a game with grid-based movement.
My small nitpicks are that I really wish this game had an option to play in portrait, and the swipe detection for movement is a bit finicky. It recognizes short, fast swipes as opposed to longer ones, and before I figured that out I was having a really frustrating time thinking the game wasn’t detecting my inputs. Probably something that can be smoothed out in an update. Overall though, despite being a bit basic overall and having some rough edges, Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat is a very enjoyable retro dungeon crawler, which is something we don’t get too many of nowadays. If that’s not worth a couple of bucks then I’m not sure what is.
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Steam Deck Weekly. I delayed publishing this because Gamescom 2024 is on right now with news from Geoff Keighley’s Opening Night Live, game announcements, show floor information, and more. If you missed my Black Myth: Wukong Steam Deck review, read it here. Today’s article has Steam Deck impressions for Bakeru and Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse, reviews of a few notable indies, Shaun’s take on the Warhammer 40K: Boltgun DLC, bundles, new Steam Deck Verified games, and more. Let’s get into the reviews and impressions first.
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
Bakeru Steam Deck Review
When Bakeru was released in Japan, a friend of mine imported it and praised it quite a bit. I tried the demo and was turned off by the technical issues. It was charming, but not enough to put up with no localization and performance issues on Switch. When it leaked on the eShop, I was hoping we’d see performance improvements or a port to PC. We ended up getting both more or less. Bakeru’s Switch release in the West is improved over the Japanese launch version, and it is also now on PC with an excellent port.
Bakeru is an action platformer from Good-Feel who are most known for the Yoshi games and also more-recently Princess Peach Showtime from Nintendo. The studio has done some games outside Nintendo brands, and the newest in this line of non Nintendo games from Good-Feel is Bakeru. Shaun will be doing a full review for this one, but so far Bakeru feels and plays great on Steam Deck.
On Steam Deck and PC, Bakeru lets you adjust display mode (windowed and borderless only), resolution (with full 16:10 support), toggle v-sync, adjust frame rate cap (Note that v-sync off means the game runs at 60fps. Turn it on if you would like to play at your monitor’s refresh rate or at 90fps on Steam Deck OLED), anti-aliasing (off, FXAA, SMAA), adjust filtering quality (trilinear, 2x, 4x, 8x, and 16x), and draw distance (low, medium, high).
I played Bakeru on both my Steam Decks. My LCD is running the newest SteamOS beta. On that, I had zero issues with the game and it ran at a locked 60fps at maximum settings. On Steam Deck OLED running the public build of the OS, I only had some issues at 90fps. This seemingly wasn’t related to the settings, but something in the game because I had some shader-related or traversal stuttering in parts, but they only happened initially. I imagine Bakeru will be Steam Deck Verified soon as it runs perfectly if you play at 60fps and near-perfectly at 90fps.
The one issue I ran into pre-release that Spike Chunsoft and the developers already fixed is button prompts being incorrectly displayed. This had the game showing Switch positions instead of Xbox ones when using my 8BitDo Xbox controller or the Steam Deck itself. I’m glad this was resolved pre-release as the game has no port issues, and it is dramatically better than the Switch version. When using a DualSense, it correctly showed PlayStation prompts with the proper labels and positions as well.
Bakeru is a good platformer that I recommend playing on PC over Switch right now. The Switch version, despite performance improvements over the Japanese demo, still has too much variance in its performance to be an easy recommendation. The HD Rumble there is nice, but everything else holds it back. On PC, you miss out on the HD Rumble, but Bakeru runs a lot better across the board, and I’ve been enjoying digging into it over the last week. Stay tuned for Shaun’s full review of the Switch version in the near future.
Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Steam Deck Review
There have been many game franchises that I completely missed out on over the years. The Sam & Max series of games is one of those. When I was offered a code to play Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse, I figured now was the time to finally play these games with the new remasters. If you’re just here for the game itself, I urge you to read Shaun’s Switch review here. I’m going to focus on how it plays on Steam Deck.
Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is the final game in the episodic Sam & Max main trilogy. This new remaster is amazing in basically every way. This includes how it controls, looks, sounds, and feels. It even has many accessibility options to make things go smoothly if you’re new to this kind of adventure game. You can toggle different hint levels and disable flashing in the accessibility settings.
On the graphics and display side, you can play Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse at higher resolutions when docked on Steam Deck, but performance doesn’t hold close to 60fps if you play at 4K. I recommend sticking to it in handheld mode for a 60 or higher experience. You can adjust the graphics quality, texture quality, anti-aliasing, toggle v-sync, and adjust display mode and resolution in the graphics settings.
With Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse, I’m glad I finally got around to playing these games. Not only are they all absolutely worth your time and money, but they play superbly on Steam Deck. I’d love for the remasters to hit iPad, but until then the Steam Deck is my favorite way to play Skunkape Games’ remasters.
SCHiM Steam Deck Review
Given the sheer amount of releases lately, I didn’t get around to playing SCHiM much at launch. I’m glad I finally rectified that because it is equal parts charming and gorgeous, and it has been the perfect game to relax with as a break from the longer upcoming games I’m playing for review right now. Developers Ewoud van der Werf and Nils Slijkerman have released a brilliant take on a 3D platformer using light, shadow, and more for puzzles, and it is all elevated by excellent audio.
Aside from the striking aesthetic, what really carries SCHiM through its four or so hours long runtime is the animation work and sound design. As you work towards solving the various puzzles in the game, every interaction has a lovely little animation, and it all feels beyond polished when played at a rock solid 90fps on Steam Deck OLED. The blend of the shadows and lights for puzzles also are enhanced by the screen in handheld mode.
So SCHiM runs perfectly out of the box on Steam Deck at 90fps, but how about docked? When played at 720p docked, it nearly does a locked 144fps. Playing at 1080p results in well over 100fps at all times. SCHiM supports 16:10 as well which is great to see on Steam Deck. I have no complaints with it aside from the fact that it might seem short for its price to some, and that there really is no evolution of the mechanics over the course of the game. While this isn’t a dealbreaker, it does hold SCHiM down from perfection.
SCHiM is a lovely abstract take on games like Frogger for the modern era. Come into this expecting a work of art with excellent audio design more than a complex puzzle game. I enjoyed just about every level despite the mechanics not really evolving. I enjoyed it enough on Steam Deck to order a physical copy of the Switch version from Japan already. This is definitely worth your time if you enjoy delightful, gorgeous, and relaxing puzzle games.
SCHiM Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Gestalt: Steam and Cinder Steam Deck Review
Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is another game I wish I got around to playing sooner like SCHiM above. It has been on the review backlog for a bit now, but having played it, this action platformer is fantastic. Not only does it nail the aesthetic with its blend of 16 and 32-bit visuals, but the sound design, story, and gameplay are sublime.
What initially drew me to Gestalt: Steam and Cinder, is the steampunk visual style in pixel art. I adore the character designs, but wasn’t sure another action platformer would be able to hit hard enough for me in recent years. Having played it, the story is very good, but without getting into spoilers, I feel like there’s more to this tale. Hopefully we see some story DLC in the future.
On the gameplay side, Gestalt: Steam and Cinder felt a bit easier than I expected outside of two bosses I had trouble with. Nothing major though, and the responsive controls help across the board.
Gestalt: Steam and Cinder ships Steam Deck Verified, and it is perfect on Valve’s handheld. The only thing I’d like to see, if feasible, is support for 90fps. Right now, the game is capped at 60fps and 16:9. I tested this on both my Steam Decks docked and in handheld mode.
Given how crowded the genre is, I know most people roll their eyes when they see another action platformer, but Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is one you cannot afford to miss. It is one of the best in the genre with its excellent gameplay, narrative, music, and slick visuals. Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is also perfect on Steam Deck from start to finish.
Gestalt: Steam and Cinder Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
The original Boltgun was a refreshing surprise for me when it was released last year. While I’m not as into first-person shooters as deeply as some, I can certainly enjoy a good boomer shooter. Give me fast, furious action with some interest levels to explore, a satisfying selection of weapons, and challenging enemy encounters and I’m there. Boltgun had all of that, all dressed up in a Warhammer theme that if nothing else helps the world feel like it extends outside of the borders of the game. A thoroughly enjoying game to play through, and one that left me properly sated… or did it?
While I thought I had had my fill of Boltgun, I was actually quite happy when Forges of Corruption was released. I guess I was still hungry. This expansion gives you five more levels of carnage to engage in, and they run on the larger side. You get two new guns to play with, one being an enhanced flamethrower and the other a rocket launcher. Sure, can’t argue with that. You also get some new enemies to try those toys out on, and you’ll need every edge you can get to deal with them.
When compared to the original game’s levels, Forges of Corruption‘s stages favor more wide open spaces. This puts your mobility skills to the test, as you’ll have to keep on moving to avoid getting surrounded or cornered. If you haven’t mastered the dash already from playing the main campaign, you’ll need to get up to speed fast here. It’s an interesting change-up from the more compact design that the base game relied on so much. The enhanced flamethrower’s spread can really help you out here, and rockets always prefer open spaces.
Difficulty-wise, these levels are mostly going to be a relative breeze for those who played through the first game. The last one is a real beast though, and you’re going to have to use everything you’ve learned to overcome it. Which is to say that while you can play this expansion without finishing the main game, you really should leave it for after. All-up, it takes a few hours to get through it all.
Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun – Forges of Corruption keep the party rolling with a set of new stages that show off a slightly different design intent than those of the original. The new weapons and enemies are appreciated, and the level design makes the most of both. I do wish there was something more interesting going on visually here, and the difficulty curve isn’t as smooth as it was in the base game. Still, those looking for more Boltgun challenges to tackle will find them here.-Shaun Musgrave
Let’s begin the massive (and fast-paced) news section of this week with a brand-new trailer for my most anticipated game of 2025: Monster Hunter Wilds. The trailer has the game looking better than before, and I’m getting more excited reading all the details from hands-on gameplay sessions people have at Gamescom. Watch the third Monster Hunter Wilds trailer below:
The next bit of news I’m excited for is Final Fantasy XVI, the best singleplayer Final Fantasy game since XII, is coming to Steam in a few weeks with pre-orders and a demo now live. It is sadly pretty rough on Steam Deck, but I hope things improve.
Terry Bogard launches on September 24th in Street Fighter 6 as the second DLC for the Year 2 Pass. His gameplay trailer looks incredible.
While not directly Steam-related, Capcom is also bringing Resident Evil 2 to GOG on August 27th. I couldn’t get Resident Evil 1’s GOG release to work on Deck, but I hope this one works.
Capcom also released a demo for the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection on Steam and consoles. Check it out here. Read my preview of the full game here.
Silent Hill 2 from Konami got a new story trailer, and this is the first trailer that’s been liked by a friend of mine who is a huge fan of the series. This will be my first Silent Hill game, so I’m excited to try it.
Square Enix released a new “Final” trailer for Visions of Mana ahead of its launch next week. I can’t wait to talk about the full game soon.
A few days ago, Cygames released the big Version 1.50 update for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising on Steam and consoles bringing in big balance adjustments, the new DLC character Versusia, and in-game content included with Battle Pass Round 5. Watch the trailer below:
Persona 3 Reload’s expansion Episode Aigis is adding Joker as a boss fight. I didn’t expect that one, but I’m looking forward to playing the DLC very soon.
Atlus will host a new ATLUS Exclusive showcase for Metaphor: ReFantazio on August 28th at 8 PM. It will be on YouTube. I’m looking forward to playing this hopefully soon for review. Atlus also revealed the English voice cast for the game. Check it out below:
Protagonist – Caleb Yen
Strohl – Stewart Clarke
Hulkenberg – Kristin Atherton
Gallica – Alejandra Reynoso
Heismay – Phillipe Spall
Junah – Emma Ballantine
Eupha – Emily Burnett
Neuras – David Monteith
Louis – Joseph Tweedale
More – Greg Chun
Grius – Gordon Cooper
A new trailer for Metaphor has also gone live, and it is the best one yet for the game ahead of its launch in October. Watch it below:
SEGA released a new trailer for Sonic X Shadow Generations that makes me wish the game was out sooner. We need anime music videos based on this for sure.
Tempest Rising from 3D Realms got a new PvP teaser trailer this week at Gamescom 2024. It looks superb. Check out the footage below:
A game I’m excited to play later this year, Slitterhead from Bokeh Game Studio, got a new story trailer this week. Watch it below:
A game most thought wouldn’t release this year, The Plucky Squire from Devolver Digital, launches on September 17th with a lovely new trailer you can watch below. I’m excited to try this out on Steam Deck and Switch.
Devolver Digital is also launching Sumerian Six, the real time tactical stealth game via Steam, on September 2nd.
Raw Fury is releasing the horror survival game Post Trauma on October 29th. Check out its release date trailer below:
Blizzard is celebrating Warcraft’s 30th anniversary in Overwatch 2 with a new skin for Widowmaker as Sylvanas next month. Check it out below:
Action adventure game Unknown 9: Awakening from Bandai Namco launches on October 18th for Steam and consoles. Pre-orders are now live with a new gameplay trailer you can watch below:
Eternal Strands, set to launch in 2025, got a new gameplay trailer at Gamescom 2024 from Yellow Brick Games. Watch it below:
Superhero-themed visual novel Sacrifice Villains from Shiravune is set to release on Steam this year. It will be priced at $19.99. Check out the Steam page here.
Little Nightmares III also had a new trailer during Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024. It releases on Steam and all consoles next year.
Diablo IV’s Vessel of Hatred expansion got a new trailer showcasing the Mercenary companions ahead of the expansion’s launch this October.
Inti Creates is releasing a demo for Card-en-Ciel on September 4th for Steam. Alongside this news, a new gameplay trailer has been released. Watch it below:
A sequel to Wilmot’s Warehouse is set to release on Steam on October 23rd in the form of Wilmot Works It Out. I loved the original and cannot wait to play this.
Risk of Rain 2’s Seekers of the Storm DLC launches on August 27th for PC and consoles. I’ll be checking this one out on Steam Deck.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II launches on February 11th, 2025 and a new gameplay showcase this week makes me wonder if this will even run on Steam Deck with how good it looks. I’ll definitely try it. Watch the showcase below:
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves from SNK launches on April 24th, 2025 for Steam, PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series X. The launch price is a special edition with the first pass. Watch the new trailer showing off the amazing Mai Shiranui and the release date showcase below:
Level Infinite streamed its recent “Into the Infinite” showcase featuring updates from its partners covering games like Soulframe, Warframe, and much more. Watch it below:
Sharkmob’s Exoborne had a new trailer released during the showcase above as well. Watch it below:
Civilization VII from Firaxis and 2K launches for Steam and all consoles on February 11th, 2025 with pre-orders now live. Check out the gameplay trailer below:
2K also revealed two other games for 2025, and they’re big ones. Borderlands 4 and Mafia The Old Country are in development for Steam and consoles for 2025 release. Watch the trailers below:
Arc System Works has revealed new details for Double Dragon Revive including the composers and story details. The composers include Raito and many more. Check out the website here.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle launches on Steam and Xbox on December 9th with pre-orders now live on Steam. I’m looking forward to playing this.
The newest Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream trailers focus on Leafa and Sinon. Watch them below:
Delta Force, the first person multiplayer shooter, previously known as Delta Force: Hawk Ops launches later this year for PC via Early Access on Steam from Level Infinite. It is also set to come to iOS and Android and consoles.
Amazon Prime is doing a series on video games titled Secret Level with a focus on specific games over 15 episodes. These include Armored Core, Spelunky, New World: Aeternum, and more. It is set to begin streaming this December.
Speaking of New World: Aeterum, a new video series based on the game can now be watched ahead of the game’s launch on October 15th:
Marvel Rivals from NetEase Games launches as a free to play game on December 6th for Steam and consoles with all heroes included for free.
Starfield’s Shattered Space DLC launches on September 30th for Steam and Xbox. A new update is also available now on all platforms.
Akatsuki Games released a new trailer for the extreme action game Tribe Nine ahead of its launch on Steam and mobile.
Free to play third person MOBA Predecessor is now available on Steam and consoles from Omeda Studios. Watch the trailer for it below:
Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO gets another trailer showing off more of the game in its “50 days from now” trailer. Watch it below:
Path of Exile 2 launches on Steam and consoles via Early Access on November 15th. Watch the new trailer from Grinding Gear Games below:
Dying Light: The Beast is a standalone open world game that’s free for owners of Dying Light 2 Ultimate Edition. It is set to release in the future.
Idea Factory International announced that Date A Live: Ren Dystopia releases on September 5th for Steam. I’ll be reviewing this one. Check it out on Steam here.
Torn Banner Studios (Chivalry 2) announced that the UE5-powered shooter No More Room in Hell 2 will launch in Steam early access this Halloween. Watch the trailer below from Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024:
Warner Bros Games also showcased a new Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns gameplay trailer focussing on Cyrax who is a part of the new DLC.
Tokyo Xtreme Racer from Genki is a new entry in the long-running series coming to Steam in 2025. I’m glad to see this because a friend of mine is a huge fan. Watch the trailer below:
Square Enix released a new trailer for Life is Strange: Double Exposure showcasing Max’s powers. Watch it below:
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week
This week, Yakuza 4 and Devil Blade Reboot are the highlights for new Verified games, and EA’s anti-cheat issues continue to make more games unplayable on Steam Deck. Check out every notable game tested by Valve since the last article below:
#BLUD – Verified
Atlas Fallen – Unsupported
Battlefield 1 – Unsupported (new anti-cheat issues)
DEVIL BLADE REBOOT – Verified
EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25 – Unsupported (new anti-cheat issues)
Eastward – Playable
Flatout 3 – Playable
hololive treasure mountain – Verified
Isles of Sea and Sky – Verified
LISA: The First – Unsupported
Metropolis: Lux Obscura – Playable
Mika and The Witch’s Mountain – Verified
Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare 2: Deluxe Edition – Unsupported (new anti-cheat issues)
Pocket Bravery – Playable
shapez 2 – Playable
Skull and Bones – Playable
SNK VS. CAPCOM SVC CHAOS – Playable
SPY×ANYA: Operation Memories – Playable
Squirrel with a Gun – Verified
Sword of Convallaria – Unsupported
Teeny Tiny Trains – Playable
The Infectious Madness of Doctor Dekker – Playable
THE LAST BLADE – Playable
Tomba! Special Edition – Playable
Wild Bastards – Verified
Yakuza 4 Remastered – Verified
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
The highlights of the week when it comes to sales and discounts are the Steam Rhythm Fest until August 26th with discounts on games like Crypt of the Necrodancer, Trombone Champ, and DJ MAX RESPECT V, and also the new Capcom Resident Evil Humble Bundle.
Next week, following the Rhythm Fest, the Isometric Games Sale begins with many discounts from publishers and developers including Owlcat Games. Check out a trailer for the event below:
That’s all for this edition of the Steam Deck Weekly. As usual, you can read all our past and future Steam Deck coverage here. If you have any feedback for this feature or what else you’d like to see us do around the Steam Deck, let us know in the comments below. I hope you all have a great day, and thanks for reading.
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital commerce, the line between physical and virtual continues to blur. As brands navigate this hybrid reality, understanding consumer behavior within these new spaces becomes a critical data point. Enter: AVA Analytics, an innovative tool designed by Obsess to bring a new dimension of insight into 3D virtual experiences.
Imagine walking through an immersive virtual store, with each step and gaze tracked to create a more intuitive and engaging environment for users. Every interaction within these experiences is translated into data and visualized through AVA Analytics. Obsess’s proprietary metrics dashboard doesn’t just display numbers; it reveals patterns, behaviors, and preferences, enabling businesses to optimize their virtual storefronts with the same precision they would in a physical space.
At the core of AVA Analytics is the concept of spatial and behavioral analytics. It operates beyond counting clicks or tracking time spent on a page. It’s about understanding how users move through a 3D environment, what catches their eye, and how they interact with products in a space. The dashboard is foundationally supported by Google Analytics 4, integrating traditional web data with a new layer of spatial intelligence.
Obsess, in partnership with some of the world’s leading brands and retailers, has created over 350 virtual experiences. Through these, AVA Analytics has become a powerful tool, transforming raw data into actionable insights that every team member—from marketers to product designers—can use to make informed decisions.
Consider the engagement data: sessions, visitors, pages viewed, session length, product clicks, and more. This data represents the pulse of your virtual store, telling you who your customers are and what they’re doing. It isn’t static; it’s dynamic, offering insights over any selected time period, allowing businesses to track trends and adjust strategies in real time.
3D Spatial Heatmaps are among the most advanced features of AVA Analytics. They provide a bird’s-eye view of your store, where you can see exactly where visitors are spending their time. It’s akin to having a thermal map of customer interest, showing you the hot zones where products are drawing attention and the cold zones where they’re being ignored. This helps ensure that high-engagement areas are maximized for both customer satisfaction and sales.
Product and content performance metrics go even deeper. AVA Analytics allows you to see how visitors interact with specific hotspots within the virtual store. This means you can identify which products, pieces of content, or navigational arrows are engaging your audience most effectively. It’s about creating a virtual space that isn’t just visually appealing but also intuitively designed to guide visitors to what they want.
Finally, audience demographics and behavior provide a comprehensive view of who your visitors are and where they’re coming from. Detailed insights into geographic location, device distribution, and traffic sources are at your fingertips, offering a level of customer understanding that was previously unattainable in virtual environments.
To learn more about Obsess-powered virtual experiences, email us at contact@obsessvr.com or book a demo.
Hello gentle readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for August 23rd, 2024. It’s the end of another week, and we’re creeping ever closer to the end of the month and the season. In the world of Switch, sometimes a slow Thursday means a big Friday. Well, not this time. We’ve got a few new releases to look at amidst the junk, plus the usual lists of new sales and expiring discounts for you to consider. Things will be busier next week, but only a little. September can’t come soon enough. Let’s finish up the week!
Select New Releases
Operation: Polygon Storm ($14.99)
A relatively basic real-time base defense game, just from a slightly different point of view than the one we usually see in this genre. I wouldn’t exactly call it visually impressive, but the destructible environments do add a little spice to an otherwise straightforward take. Not my genre of choice, but if it’s yours then you might want to give it a closer look.
Thermonuclear ($7.99)
Set in a distant future where a third World War has broken out, Thermonuclear casts you as a member of a megacorporation out to claim victory. You have access to a powerful new technology called Thermonuclear, an advanced combat cyborg. Guide your cyborg through procedurally-generated stages, engaging in turn-based strategic combat with the enemies found within. You’ll upgrade your cyborg as you go, and if you’re lucky you might just be able to take down the Allfather AI and save the world. If not? Well, you can always try again. Seems decent from what I’ve seen so far.
Magnus Trilogy ($8.99)
A series of visual novels in the Magnus series, bundled together in one simple package. These lean more towards the bizarre and psychological end of the curve. At the very least, you can’t argue with the price per title here. Not for everyone, but some will get a lot out of this.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
An intriguing assortment of new sales, but a short enough list that I’ll mainly leave it to you. What I will mention is that PowerWash Simulator is not only featuring a discount on the main game, but also all of its paid DLC packs. Now is the time to stock up if you don’t already own them. In the weekend outbox, Team 17’s got a round of titles finishing up their sales. They’ll certainly be back on sale again soon, but maybe you want them now? Choices to make.
Select New Sales
Botany Manor ($22.49 from $24.99 until 8/29)Puddle Knights ($2.99 from $9.99 until 8/30)Batman: The Telltale Series ($7.49 from $14.99 until 8/30)Batman: The Enemy Within ($7.49 from $14.99 until 8/30)Fuga: Melodies of Steel ($19.99 from $39.99 until 9/2)Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2 ($23.99 from $39.99 until 9/2)Kingdom Come Deliverance ($29.99 from $49.99 until 9/4)Outward Definitive ($23.99 from $39.99 until 9/4)Metro 2033 Redux ($3.99 from $19.99 until 9/4)Metro Last Light Redux ($3.99 from $19.99 until 9/4)Kona II: Brume ($11.99 from $29.99 until 9/4)F1 Manager 2024 ($27.99 from $34.99 until 9/5)Adventure Bar Story ($15.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)Anomaly Agent ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/5)Ambition: A Minuet in Power ($4.99 from $9.99 until 9/6)
Skulls of the Shogun ($3.99 from $19.99 until 9/6)Galak-Z The Void Deluxe ($2.99 from $14.99 until 9/6)PowerWash Simulator ($17.49 from $24.99 until 9/6)Fear Effect Sedna ($1.99 from $19.99 until 9/6)Suhoshin ($4.49 from $14.99 until 9/6)Ty the Tasmanian Tiger HD ($10.49 from $29.99 until 9/6)Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 4 ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/6)Hampuzz ($3.49 from $6.99 until 9/11)Yeah! You Want Those Games, Right? ($7.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)Carry Onward ($2.99 from $4.99 until 9/12)Abyss of the Sacrifice ($11.99 from $39.99 until 9/12)Starward Rogue ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/12)Commandos 2: HD Remaster ($14.99 from $19.99 until 9/12)Commandos 3: HD Remaster ($20.99 from $29.99 until 9/12)Incredible Mandy ($5.99 from $14.99 until 9/12)4 The Elements ($7.19 from $8.99 until 9/12)Lunar Axe ($3.99 from $4.99 until 9/12)
TMNT Wrath of the Mutants ($17.99 from $29.99 until 9/12)Frogue ($3.99 from $4.99 until 9/12)Toridama2: Brave Challenge ($3.99 from $7.99 until 9/12)The Fall of Elena Temple ($2.39 from $2.99 until 9/12)Omega Labyrinth Life ($17.99 from $59.99 until 9/12)Funghi Explosion ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/12)A Dark Room ($2.79 from $6.99 until 9/12)Samurai Maiden ($29.99 from $59.99 until 9/12)Beholgar ($2.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)Raccoo Venture ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/12)Time Rift ($2.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)Doomsday Hunter ($8.99 from $17.99 until 9/12)Super Trunko Go ($2.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)WorldNeverland: Elnea Kingdom ($8.99 from $29.99 until 9/12)Zero Tolerance Collection ($4.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)The Tale of Clouds & Wind ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/12)
Sales Ending This Weekend
All Noobs Must Die ($1.99 from $12.99 until 8/24)Demon Turf ($12.49 from $24.99 until 8/24)Full Metal Sergeant ($7.99 from $9.99 until 8/24)Mystic Academy: Escape Room ($5.49 from $10.99 until 8/24)Right and Down and Dice ($5.99 from $11.99 until 8/24)Venari Escape Room Adventure ($4.19 from $5.99 until 8/24)Blasphemous ($6.24 from $24.99 until 8/25)Blast Brigade vs. The Evil Legion ($11.99 from $19.99 until 8/25)DREDGE ($16.24 from $24.99 until 8/25)Overcooked 2 ($6.24 from $24.99 until 8/25)Rack and Slay ($5.09 from $5.99 until 8/25)
That’s all for today and this week, friends. We’ll be back next week with more new games, more sales, more reviews, and some news. I have a lot of things I need to get done this weekend, so wish me luck in doing them. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday, and as always, thanks for reading!
For our next dive into the retro games available on Switch, we’re going all the way back to 1989. Er, and then to 1998. We’re heading back to the old monochrome beast and its colorful successor: the Game Boy and Game Boy Color. While there is a robust selection of games from these handhelds in the Nintendo Switch Online app, we’re instead looking at those games that dare to exist in the wilds of the Switch eShop. We’ve got ten of our favorites here, plus five more games that we’d like to see. No particular order, of course. Time to Play It Loud!
Shantae ($9.99)
Once a genuine scarcity that would cost you hundreds of dollars to get your hands on in any legal capacity, Shantae is now quite readily available in digital form. This game is considerably rougher than its sequels, but it pushes the Game Boy Color hardware in a lot of interesting ways, providing a platformer with a bit more to it than the average Game Boy hop-and-bop. Wow, I haven’t seen the term “hop-and-bop” in something like twenty-five years. Well, there you go. Shantae: it’s pretty good fun.
Trip World DX ($19.99)
Here’s another game that would have cost you a pretty penny to play officially until very recently. Trip World is an interesting platformer from Sunsoft that offers up a short but sweet experience. This release of the game does a full-on colorization job while also including a number of extras to dig into. It’s an excellent way to play this quirky, charming tale.
Final Fantasy Legend II – Collection of SaGa Final Fantasy Legend ($19.99)
Time to wade into the compilations, and we’ll start with one that is all Game Boy games: Collection of SaGa. You get all three games in the Final Fantasy Legend series here, and they’re all really good handheld RPGs. I’m picking out Final Fantasy Legend II to highlight here, simply because I think it’s the best of the three. It has plenty of the weird mechanics that make SaGa games so interesting, but feels more well-rounded and approachable than the first game. Probably the best turn-based RPG on the system pre-Pokemon.
Final Fantasy Adventure – Collection of Mana ($39.99)
Going hand in hand with the Final Fantasy Legend games, Final Fantasy Adventure is the game that kicked off the long-running Mana series. As such, you’ll find it in the Collection of Mana with the two Super NES follow-ups. Again, all games worth playing. This action-RPG provided an excellent alternative to the superb Link’s Awakening on the system, with a snappy pace and some surprisingly ambitious storytelling. It’s been remade a couple of times, but there’s nothing quite like the original.
TMNT III: Radical Rescue – TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection ($39.99)
Konami did some great Game Boy games, and it has made a handful of them available through its various collections. The Cowabunga Collection has all three of its original Game Boy TMNT games included, and I think they all have their merits. The open-ended, pseudo-Metroidvania TMNT III: Radical Rescue is the pick of the bunch, though. Plenty of action as you would expect, but the additional layers from exploring the world, rescuing your brothers, and finding all the upgrades makes this one you can really sink your teeth into.
Operation C – Contra Anniversary Collection ($19.99)
After the somewhat tepid attempt to bring Castlevania to the Game Boy via Castlevania: The Adventure, one would be forgiven for thinking there was little hope the tense run-and-gun action of Contra would survive the transition. Surprisingly, Operation C turned out to be really awesome. Sure, you can’t play with another player. Strictly a solo affair. But it’s fast, fun, and challenging in the way you want a Contra game to be. Perhaps there was hope for Konami action-platformers on the handheld after all!
How’s that for foreshadowing? Yes, after mostly biffing the first Game Boy Castlevania game, Konami turned things around in a big way with Belmont’s Revenge. This is an excellent Castlevania game, one that easily hangs with the home console entries even if it can’t quite surpass them. Given it was sandwiched by some less-than-great games, it’s possible many players skipped out on this one thinking it would be the same. If you haven’t played it yet, here’s a handy way to do that.
Ninja JaJaMaru: The Great World Adventure – Ninja JaJaMaru: Retro Collection ($14.99)
Ninja JaJaMaru: The Great World Adventure isn’t the best game in this bunch by any means, but I think it’s an important representation of some of the more off-beat titles that filled out the library around the releases from huge publishers. Some proper work was put into this reissue, too. It has a new localization and has been colorized, giving a nice spit-shine to a game that might not have topped anyone’s lists for such an effort. While The Great World Adventure is the only Game Boy game in the lot, this collection is an interesting one to poke at in general.
Xtreme Sports ($9.99)
WayForward’s most famous wholly-original property on the Game Boy Color is obviously Shantae, but Xtreme Sports is no slouch either. Essentially a collection of sports mini-games tied together with an open world, Xtreme Sports is a lot better than it has any right to be. The graphics are good, the gameplay is great for pick-up-and-play grazing, and those looking to completely finish everything will find a stiff challenge ahead of them.
The Rescue of Princess Blobette – A Boy and His Blob Retro Collection ($9.99)
Another game that is here more for its unique feel than anything, The Rescue of Princess Blobette brings the home computer-esque puzzle-adventure gameplay of the NES original to the small screen quite well. In some ways it’s a more polished game than its predecessor, delivered in a more compact and well-paced form. If you like games that take some figuring out due to occasional bits of opacity, you’ll love this one.
And… 5 Game Boy and Game Boy Color Games We’d Like to See on Switch
Batman: The Video Game
Yes, it’s kind of weird that Batman is using a gun the whole way through this early Game Boy action game. But it’s also weird that Keaton’s Batman gleefully murders bad guys, so let’s just call it a sign of the times. The important thing is that this is another really great Sunsoft Batman game, and while I know the odds of any of these movie-based Batman games ever resurfacing are next to nil, I will never stop asking.
Pokemon Gold/Silver/Crystal
I’m generally avoiding games that I think might show up on Nintendo Switch Online at some point, which means most first-party Nintendo stuff is out. I really hope I’m wrong about this, but something tells me that while the Pokemon spin-offs will probably keep appearing in the subscription service, the mainline games won’t. Thus, I formally request the ability to purchase and play these fine Game Boy RPGs on my Switch.
Gradius: The Interstellar Assault
I waffled between including this or the excellent R-Type DX, but ultimately we have R-Type Dimensions on Switch to scratch that itch, whereas Gradius: The Interstellar Assault only exists in Game Boy form. For a platform whose display should have made it terrible for shooting games, the Game Boy had a good handful of excellent ones. This was Konami’s second kick at the Gradius can on the platform, and while that first one was fine this one really kicked things into gear. Honestly, I just kind of want a Gradius collection in the vein of Konami’s Contra, Castlevania, and TMNT ones. If that happens, this game ought to be in there.
Metal Gear Solid
Lots of Konami in this article, I’m coming to realize. Anyway, this is arguably the best third-party Game Boy Color exclusive. Just about everything that was great about the PlayStation Metal Gear Solid was somehow squeezed into this completely original adventure. This game completely blew me away at the time thanks to that fidelity, and it still impresses me today. Yes, much of the template was laid down in the MSX2 Metal Gear 2, but it’s cool to see something like this on a Game Boy Color. Maybe this will show up in the next Metal Gear collection?
Dragon Warrior Monsters
Pokemon spawned a lot of imitators, but to be fair to Dragon Quest it had monster-catching elements in the main games before Pokemon arrived. So, you know. We forgive you, King. Dragon Warrior Monsters is one of the better Game Boy games inspired by Pokemon‘s success, and I think it would be terrific to see it available on Switch. And you know what? It is available on Switch, but only in Japan. Come on, Square Enix. Just drop the Western ROM in the wrapper and help some Dragon Quest fans out!
And that’s the list, friends. Are there any Game Boy or Game Boy Color games you enjoy on the Switch? Any you would like to see? Feel free to sound off down in the comments and let us know what you’re thinking! It’s always interesting to hear the opinions of others on this kind of thing. As always, thanks for reading!
Hello gentle readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for August 22nd, 2024. In today’s article, we continue to bear witness to the slow yet clear decline of Switch releases in this eighth year. It’s Thursday, but we don’t even have a dozen games worth mentioning today. Even among the ones we have, there isn’t anything that is jumping out. Sure, it’s August. Things are going to pick up soon. But it’s still odd to see such dry Thursdays, even at this time of the year. At least the sales are healthy. Let’s have a look at all of that!
Select New Releases
Verne – The Shape of Fantasy ($14.99)
Play as Jules Verne, who has been brought into a world sprung from his own imagination, in this adventure game. He’ll join forces with Captain Nemo as they try to fend off an evil force determined to destroy all imagination, which I reckon would be pretty bad. Solve puzzles, engage in dialogue, and enjoy the story. An interesting premise, and that’s a big part of the battle when it comes to this genre.
Rise Eterna War ($9.99)
A prequel story to Rise Eterna, this looks to be a base defense-style game to me. Build your team and use your limited resources to deploy them against the enemy. Seems fine for what it is, even if what it is isn’t terribly novel. With more than forty stages to play, it will keep you busy for a few days at least.
As Per My Last Email ($6.29)
One of those stress relief games. You’re an office worker and you have a sledgehammer. You can break pretty much everything in the office. Go for it. Play the ten-level campaign mode, or enjoy the infinite Mayhem Mode as you like. The affordable price is about right for the experience on offer.
Ring Sculptors ($14.99)
A choice-based narrative adventure where you pick from nine different characters and try to survive a trip to the Ring Sculptors’ base. On top of making choices at various points, there are also stats to manage, dice rolls to try to luck out on, and plenty of endings to uncover as a result.
Argol – Kronoss’ Castle ($8.99)
This is a side-scrolling action-platformer in the vein of games like Castlevania or Valis. You play as a sword-wielding warrior on a quest to vanquish evil. Or at least I presume that’s the story, anyway. All I know is that there is a fellow named Kronoss and his castle must be stormed. A decent game with a pretty lively soundtrack backing it. Nothing I’d run down the street yelling about, but it might scratch an itch.
Ataraxie ($4.99)
An affordable Metroidvania-style game starring a mummy. It’s really rough around the edges, but for the price you might not mind. I at least appreciate the novel protagonist. Shame about the ropey collision detection, though.
Arcade Archives The Ninja Kids ($7.99)
Taito’s 1990 beat ’em up featuring puppet ninjas is the latest Arcade Archives release. Up to four players can join in on the fun via local multiplayer, and that’s probably the best way to enjoy this one. Even going alone, the wacky tone makes this an enjoyable game to play through. The mechanics aren’t as tight as in the better titles in this genre from Capcom or Konami, but there’s some charm in the janky nature of it all.
Tales from Toyotoki: Arrival of the Witch ($29.99)
Here’s a visual novel with some simulation elements. Maybe it isn’t right to call it a visual novel because of those elements? Forgive me if my choice of words isn’t on point. Your character ends up homeless on a mysterious island, and soon runs into a witch that is having some problems of her own. They decide to work together, and they’re eventually joined by several others. Can this rag-tag group survive Toyotoki Island and grow along the way? Play to find out! I should write box copy, I swear.
EGGCONSOLE Star Trader PC-8801mkIISR ($6.49)
When you think of Nihon Falcom, you definitely think of… shoot ’em ups? Okay, maybe not. But this one did happen back in the day, and as you might expect it’s not an orthodox take by any means. There are adventure game scenes mashed in with the shooting action here, and your skill at handling trading will determine your available funds for upgrades. Naturally, this is all in Japanese. EGGCONSOLE and all that. If I think it’s even remotely playable for someone who can’t understand the language, I’ll do a review soon.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Another sale for 1000xRESIST. Buy 1000xRESIST. Maybe Freedom Planet 2 and Haiku, the Robot too, depending on your tastes. The latest sales from id Software and Inti-Creates are finishing up today, so fill your boots while you can. Check those lists!
Select New Sales
1000xRESIST ($15.99 from $19.99 until 8/28)Times & Galaxy ($17.99 from $19.99 until 8/28)Super Mutant Alien Assault ($1.99 from $9.99 until 8/28)The Pale Beyond ($9.99 from $19.99 until 8/28)Suzerain ($4.49 from $17.99 until 8/28)Paradise Killer ($5.99 from $19.99 until 8/28)Genesis Noir ($4.49 from $14.99 until 8/28)Citizen Sleeper ($9.99 from $19.99 until 8/28)Haiku, The Robot ($9.99 from $19.99 until 8/28)Ebenezer & the Invisible World ($13.99 from $19.99 until 8/29)Freedom Planet 2 ($18.74 from $24.99 until 9/5)Deadcraft ($5.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)Silent Hope ($13.99 from $39.99 until 9/5)Untitled Goose Game ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)Corpse Party ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)Akiba’s Trip: Undead & Undressed ($14.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)Wing of Darkness ($5.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)SCHiM ($17.49 from $24.99 until 9/5)Marchen Forest ($6.99 from $34.99 until 9/5)Violet Wisteria ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/6)Oops, I Said Yes?! ($20.99 from $29.99 until 9/9)even if TEMPEST Dawning Connections ($34.99 from $49.99 until 9/9)Pirate Bloopers ($1.99 from $9.99 until 9/11)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, August 23rd
Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 ($14.99 from $29.99 until 8/23)Berserk Boy ($14.00 from $20.00 until 8/23)Blaster Master Zero 3 ($7.49 from $14.99 until 8/23)Bloodstained Curse of the Moon 2 ($5.99 from $14.99 until 8/23)CounterAttack: Uprising ($4.49 from $14.99 until 8/23)Dead End City ($9.89 from $14.99 until 8/23)DOOM ($7.99 from $39.99 until 8/23)DOOM 3 ($3.99 from $9.99 until 8/23)DOOM 64 ($1.99 from $4.99 until 8/23)DOOM Eternal ($9.99 from $39.99 until 8/23)Dragon Marked for Death ($7.49 from $14.99 until 8/23)Fireside ($11.99 from $14.99 until 8/23)For The Warp ($1.99 from $17.99 until 8/23)Froggie ($2.99 from $4.99 until 8/23)Gal Guardians: Demon Purge ($13.74 from $24.99 until 8/23)Gunvolt Records: Cychronicle ($10.49 from $14.99 until 8/23)Little Kitty, Big City ($19.99 from $24.99 until 8/23)Luminous Avenger iX 2 ($12.49 from $24.99 until 8/23)PuzzMiX ($2.99 from $3.99 until 8/23)QUAKE ($3.99 from $9.99 until 8/23)Quake II ($3.99 from $9.99 until 8/23)Sally Face ($8.99 from $14.99 until 8/23)TES V: Skyrim ($29.99 from $59.99 until 8/23)TES V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition ($34.99 from $69.99 until 8/23)Umbraclaw ($17.49 from $24.99 until 8/23)Wolfenstein II: TNC ($5.99 from $39.99 until 8/23)Yohane the Parhelion: Blaze in the Deepblue ($20.39 from $29.99 until 8/23)
That’s all for today, friends. We’ll be back tomorrow with the remaining releases for the week, plus whatever sales and major news items roll in during the course of the day. We’ve been getting so many thunderstorms lately around here. Hot and sunny during the day, stormy in the evening. Very odd, and not conducive to the laundry schedule. Oh well. I hope you all have a thrilling Thursday, and as always, thanks for reading!
Skulls of the Shogun ($3.99 from $19.99 until 9/6)Galak-Z The Void Deluxe ($2.99 from $14.99 until 9/6)PowerWash Simulator ($17.49 from $24.99 until 9/6)Fear Effect Sedna ($1.99 from $19.99 until 9/6)Suhoshin ($4.49 from $14.99 until 9/6)Ty the Tasmanian Tiger HD ($10.49 from $29.99 until 9/6)Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 4 ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/6)Hampuzz ($3.49 from $6.99 until 9/11)Yeah! You Want Those Games, Right? ($7.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)Carry Onward ($2.99 from $4.99 until 9/12)Abyss of the Sacrifice ($11.99 from $39.99 until 9/12)Starward Rogue ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/12)Commandos 2: HD Remaster ($14.99 from $19.99 until 9/12)Commandos 3: HD Remaster ($20.99 from $29.99 until 9/12)Incredible Mandy ($5.99 from $14.99 until 9/12)4 The Elements ($7.19 from $8.99 until 9/12)Lunar Axe ($3.99 from $4.99 until 9/12)
TMNT Wrath of the Mutants ($17.99 from $29.99 until 9/12)Frogue ($3.99 from $4.99 until 9/12)Toridama2: Brave Challenge ($3.99 from $7.99 until 9/12)The Fall of Elena Temple ($2.39 from $2.99 until 9/12)Omega Labyrinth Life ($17.99 from $59.99 until 9/12)Funghi Explosion ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/12)A Dark Room ($2.79 from $6.99 until 9/12)Samurai Maiden ($29.99 from $59.99 until 9/12)Beholgar ($2.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)Raccoo Venture ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/12)Time Rift ($2.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)Doomsday Hunter ($8.99 from $17.99 until 9/12)Super Trunko Go ($2.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)WorldNeverland: Elnea Kingdom ($8.99 from $29.99 until 9/12)Zero Tolerance Collection ($4.99 from $9.99 until 9/12)The Tale of Clouds & Wind ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/12)
