Recent reviews by Jc

REPO is an absolute blast! If you're looking for a unique and hilarious co-op horror experience, look no further. The physics-based gameplay leads to incredibly funny and unexpected moments as you and your friends try to retrieve valuable items while avoiding goofy monsters. Teamwork is key, and the emergent gameplay ensures that every session is a memorable one. Definitely worth checking out for some lighthearted scares and plenty of laughs!

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I just emerged from the digital dirt of Digseum, and let me tell you, my thumbs have never been happier (or more calloused, virtually speaking). If you've ever dreamed of becoming the Indiana Jones of incremental clicking, then this is your jam!

Forget therapy, I've found Digseum! 5/5 Ancient Artifacts!

Seriously, this game is like a tiny, adorable archaeological addiction. You start with a humble shovel and a dream (and probably a crippling need to see numbers go up), and before you know it, you're unearthing relics that would make a T-Rex blush.

The gameplay loop is simple: click, dig, discover, repeat. But oh boy, is it satisfying! Each little thwack of your virtual shovel brings the promise of a shiny new widget, a dusty old doohickey, or maybe even the legendary Spoon of Destiny! (Yes, that's a thing, I'm pretty sure.)

And the museum! Oh, the glorious museum! Watching your collection grow from a single, lonely bone to a sprawling testament to forgotten civilizations is strangely… empowering. You'll be meticulously placing pottery shards and dinosaur skulls like you're the curator of the Louvre, except instead of snooty art critics, you've got a growing number in the corner that tells you how awesome your museum is. And let me tell you, that number will become your best friend.

Pros:

Short and Sweet: Perfect for those moments when you need a quick dopamine hit without committing to a 100-hour RPG. You can probably build your legendary museum during a particularly long bathroom break (though I wouldn't recommend it).

Surprisingly Addictive: Don't let the simplicity fool you. You'll find yourself whispering "just one more dig..." at 3 AM.

The Relics are Hilariously Random: From ancient coins to what I'm pretty sure was a sentient potato, the variety of artifacts will keep you chuckling.

Positive Vibes Only: There's no stress, no enemies, just the pure, unadulterated joy of unearthing cool stuff and showing it off.

Makes You Feel Like a Genius (Even if You're Just Clicking): "Look at me, I've discovered the Lost Toothbrush of Cleopatra! My intellect knows no bounds!"

Cons:

May Cause Mild Thumb Cramps (Virtual Ones): All that clicking has to go somewhere.

You Might Start Looking at Your Own Backyard Differently: Don't be surprised if you suddenly feel the urge to grab a shovel and start digging for Roman pottery. Blame Digseum.

In conclusion: If you're looking for a charming, funny, and utterly addictive little game that will let you live out your museum-owning fantasies without needing a multi-million dollar loan, then Digseum is a must-buy! Go forth, dig up the past, and build the greatest museum the digital world has ever seen! Just don't blame me when you start talking to your virtual artifacts. They're good listeners, I promise.

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to drop some truth bombs about the gaming masterpiece that is... checks notes ...Nodebuster. Yes, you heard that right. Node. Buster. It sounds like something your grandpa invented in his shed to deal with particularly stubborn garden gnomes, but trust me, it's so much more.

Now, let's be honest, Nodebuster isn't going to win any awards for "Most Graphically Demanding Game That Will Make Your RTX 4090 Cry." In fact, my toaster oven probably has more polygons. But that's the beauty of it! It's so simple, a toddler could play it (though I wouldn't recommend it, they might try to eat the nodes). And yet, somehow, this game has burrowed its way into my heart like a particularly comfortable earworm.

The gameplay? Imagine the thrill of watching paint dry, but with the added bonus of occasionally clicking a thing. It's mesmerizing! It's like digital meditation, except instead of emptying your mind, you're filling it with the satisfying click and the gentle glow of... well, nodes.

And the soundtrack? Oh. My. Goodness. Prepare your eardrums for a symphony of pure, unadulterated chill. It's the kind of music that makes you want to sip a cup of herbal tea, stroke a nonexistent beard, and contemplate the meaning of... nodes. I'm not kidding, I've put this soundtrack on while doing my taxes, and for the first time in my life, I almost enjoyed it. Almost.

If you're tired of games that demand your undivided attention, games that make your palms sweat and your heart race, then Nodebuster is your digital Xanax. It's the perfect game to play while you're supposed to be working, or while your significant other is telling you about their day. Just nod occasionally and click a node. They'll never know the difference.

So, should you buy Nodebuster? If you're looking for a game that will challenge your intellect and push your reflexes to the limit, probably not. But if you want a game that's the gaming equivalent of a warm hug and a cup of chamomile tea, then absolutely! Go forth and bust those nodes, you magnificent node-busting machine! You won't regret it (unless you were expecting something with explosions and car chases, in which case, maybe lower your expectations a tad).

Final Verdict: 5 out of 5 surprisingly enjoyable nodes. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some very important node-busting to attend to.

A CO-OP MASTERPIECE! Split Fiction is a Must-Play!

Wow. Just... wow. Split Fiction has completely blown me away. If you're looking for an unforgettable co-op experience, stop searching – you've found it. From the moment my friend and I jumped in, we were hooked.

The story is absolutely captivating, weaving a narrative that kept us guessing and emotionally invested every step of the way. The twists and turns are brilliant, and the way the narrative unfolds through co-op interaction is nothing short of genius. It's not just a game; it's a shared adventure that strengthens friendships.

But it's not just the story that shines. The mechanics are incredibly polished and innovative. The way you have to work together, communicate, and strategize to overcome challenges is so satisfying. It never felt repetitive, and each new area brought fresh and exciting gameplay. The level design is top-notch, and the puzzles are clever and rewarding.

Honestly, I haven't had this much fun with a co-op game in years. Split Fiction is a true gem, and it deserves all the praise it gets. It's a testament to what can be achieved when developers focus on creating a truly collaborative and immersive experience.

Pros:
- Amazing, engaging story with brilliant twists.
- Incredibly fun and well-designed co-op mechanics.
- Beautifully crafted levels and environments.
- Perfect balance of puzzle-solving and action.
- A truly memorable experience that strengthens friendships.

Cons:
- Honestly, I can't think of any!

If you're looking for a game to play with a friend, look no further. Split Fiction is a GOTY contender, and I can't recommend it enough. 10/10!

Absolutely fantastic! METAL GEAR SOLID 3: Snake Eater - Master Collection Version is a must-buy for any fan of stealth action, gripping storytelling, or just plain phenomenal games. Even years later, MGS3 holds up as a masterpiece, and this collection brings it to Steam in all its glory.

Snake Eater itself is a legend. The Cold War jungle setting is incredibly atmospheric and immersive, pulling you into a world of espionage, betrayal, and survival. The story is a masterclass in narrative design, with deep characters, emotional resonance, and twists that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Witnessing the origins of Big Boss is a powerful and unforgettable experience.

Gameplay is as tight and rewarding as ever. The stealth mechanics are refined to perfection, offering a level of tactical depth rarely seen. Mastering camouflage, close quarters combat (CQC), and navigating the intricate environments is incredibly satisfying. Every successful infiltration feels earned and exhilarating.

This Master Collection version on Steam is the perfect way to experience (or re-experience!) this classic. Having MGS3 alongside the other included titles is just incredible value. If you've never played Metal Gear Solid before, this is the perfect starting point. If you're a veteran, prepare to fall in love with Snake Eater all over again.

Pros:

Masterpiece Storytelling: One of the greatest narratives in gaming history.
Refined Stealth Gameplay: Tactical depth and rewarding infiltration.
Iconic Cold War Setting: Immersive and atmospheric jungle environments.
Unforgettable Characters: Witness the birth of Big Boss and encounter iconic figures like The Boss and
Ocelot.
Great Value in the Master Collection: Get more than just MGS3!

Cons:

(Honestly, nitpicking at this point!) Might feel a little dated visually compared to modern games, but the art style is timeless.

Verdict: 10/10. Don't miss out on this essential piece of gaming history! Welcome back to the jungle, Naked Snake!

Getting the game now for its currently discounted Winter Steam Sale price along with the Annual Pass of which contains all 3 DLCs is a no brainer (3,99 EUR for the base game + 3,99 EUR for the Annual Pass which contains all 3 DLCs). I played it back in the day on GamePass (also did not wanted to buy it on Steam due to all the negative reviews) and had an absolute blast, and the game improved a lot since its release. It's not L4D by any means, but if you're into some coop fun, you won't regret it for its current pricetag. In terms of gametime / longevity along with the DLCs the game has a total of 6 Acts which are pretty long. The 1st Act for example, if you take it chill, and also depends on the difficulty, it takes like 4-5 hours to complete, hence with all the Acts you're into a minimum of 25-30+ hrs of gameplay for the very first playthrough to say the least. And there are a lot of cards to unlock which also serves as an extra layer of variety and replayability in terms of gameplay, so you can build your own deck and experiment around with them and with the different characters as well. So, for less than 10 EURs at the moment (base game + annual pass for the DLCs), I'd say go for it.

Hours Played at the time of review: 77,9 hrs

A Solid Foundation with Room to Grow

Path of Exile 2 is a promising sequel that builds on the strengths of its predecessor while introducing fresh mechanics, updated visuals, and an ambitious new campaign. However, as an early access title, it is still a work in progress, hence not all skills (gems), characters / classes, weapon-types are currently present in the game.

Pros
Revamped Skill System:
The overhauled gem system is a standout feature. With 240 active and 200 support gems, the game
offers unparalleled character customization, allowing players to create deeply personalized builds.

Stunning Visuals:
The updated graphics breathe new life into the world of Wraeclast, with detailed environments, improved
lighting, and fluid animations. The visual overhaul significantly enhances the immersion.

Dynamic Combat:
New weapons like spears and crossbows, along with a dodge roll mechanic, make combat more engaging
and tactical. These additions add depth and variety to encounters, improving upon the original's formula.

Controller Support:
The game’s robust controller implementation makes it more accessible to players who prefer a twin-stick
ARPG experience. It feels natural and intuitive.
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Cons
Early Access Limitations:
Currently, only half the campaign is available, with some classes and endgame systems still missing. Bugs
and performance issues are expected but can detract from the experience.

Steep Learning Curve:
The game retains Path of Exile's complexity, which is both a strength and a challenge. Newcomers may
feel overwhelmed by the intricate systems and massive passive skill tree.

Inconsistent Loot System:
While the loot remains abundant, it sometimes lacks meaningful progression rewards, which can make
gearing up feel frustrating and grind-heavy at times.
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Final Thoughts

Path of Exile 2 is an ambitious sequel that improves in many areas but is still finding its footing in early access. Veterans of the series will appreciate the refinements and innovations, while newcomers may struggle with the learning curve, even though it was advertised as a more newcomer friendly title compared to PoE1, and incomplete content.

Do I recommend it?
If you’re eager to experience the evolution of one of the most beloved ARPGs, Path of Exile 2 is worth your time even in its current state. However, if you prefer a polished and complete experience, it may be better to wait for the full release (approx. 6-12 months from now if they can keep up with their schedule).

Nuclear Nightmare masterfully captures the tension and paranoia of survival in a world devastated by nuclear fallout. Drawing heavy inspiration from The Thing, the game incorporates an atmosphere of mistrust and unease, as players must determine who—or what—they can rely on. The chilling environments, eerie sound design, and subtle nods to John Carpenter's classic film create an experience that is both suspenseful and deeply immersive.

The gameplay offers a satisfying blend of exploration, resource management, and strategic decision-making. The addition of shape-shifting enemies, reminiscent of The Thing, adds a unique layer of psychological dread that keeps players constantly on edge. Its cooperative gameplay mode, where players work together while questioning each other's motives, is particularly engaging and enhances replayability.

While some minor bugs and steep difficulty spikes persist, these issues do little to detract from the overall experience. Nuclear Nightmare stands out as a thrilling survival game that pays homage to a cinematic masterpiece while carving out its own identity in the genre.

Insurgency: Sandstorm delivers an intense, tactical shooter experience that rewards teamwork and careful strategy. The gunplay feels realistic and satisfying, with a strong emphasis on immersive audio and visual design. The game strikes a great balance between realism and fun, offering deep customization options for weapons and loadouts. The multiplayer modes encourage tactical communication, making it a standout for players who enjoy coordinated teamwork. Though it may have a learning curve for newcomers, it's well worth it for those seeking a hardcore FPS experience. Highly recommended for fans of tactical shooters!

TL;DR:
The perfect honeymoon phase simulator.

No wonder that you can level up a character in one sitting from lvl1-50 in less than 24 hours. You'll get tons of mats while doing the MSQs, so you can level up your gear n skills up to a certain point, hence you'll feel happy and satisfied, it will give you the impression that everything is obtainable with the same amount of effort, but that's the whole psychology of these types of KMMOs in a nutshell, to pull you in, to make you believe that it's actually f2p, but the harsh reality will hit everyone in the face once they hit lvl50. Your whole lvl1-50 journey was just a buildup to rope you into the good ol' p2w debit card cage fight.

How your typical post-level 50 gameplay will look like:

- A loop of crap ton of dailies, a literally 24/7 cycle slave job on a daily basis, of which doesn't even guarantee the drops you're looking for, so most of the time you'll just get some random crap. Just your typical KMMO drop rate
- You'll be in a huge disadvantage if you're not part of a progressive guild, since all the core gameplay was built around this.
- The PvE indeed feels like a last minute afterthought, with a very limited number of Dungeons, and Open World Dungeons, and World Events (Events / Bosses). The lvl50 instanced dungeons are basically exactly the same as the low level ones, even the end-boss is the same, they just hit harder, and they have a chance to drop better loot, but believe me, they won't #LostArkEffect
- Most of the content is timegated.
- And I saved the best for the last. The game's AH currency (Lucent) can be bought for real money, not just from selling items, and with that, one can literally buy himself into Epic Tier in a blink of an eye if he's willing to spend the cash, and we all know that the whales etc. will. Most of the economy is already under the control of whales. In the first couple of days one had the chance to sell-buy on a reasonable price, but now it's all out of hand.

In overall, once you hit lvl50, and the honeymoon phase has passed, you'll soon realize that apart from the above mentioned, there's not much else to do, just a rinse n repeat sad grind fest for nothing, which feels like a purgatory.

p.s.
The game also flopped even in Korea, so just think about that for a sec on what this actually means. :)