What is Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales?

Thronebreaker is a roleplaying strategy game that revolves around the card battle minigame used in The Witcher 3, Gwent. In place of a combat system, this game uses cards to do battle, with each card representing characters encountered throughout the course of the game.

Yet, the game is much more than a glorified card game and features a rich story that is teaming with compelling characters and interesting dialogues.

Queen Meve of Lyria and Rivia

In this game players take on the role of Queen Meve and follow her journey as she explores areas of The Witcher world that have previously been unseen, such as Rivia, Lyria, and Mahakam. Meve is an intriguing protagonist with multiple layers and is extremely enjoyable to play as. You Along way the way you will encounter political turmoil and have to make game-changing moral decisions that will leave you questioning your levels of personal honor and humanity.

Gameplay

The game is an interesting concoction of various different gameplay styles, combining elements of adventure, strategy, point-and-click, and visual novels. The player can move freely throughout the world using a mouse or controller from a top-down perspective. Whilst roaming the map as Queen Meve, you can take on quests and gather items and resources to help you in throughout the game.

As with previous Witcher instalments, Thronebreaker makes use of animated cutscenes in the style of graphic novels in order to further the dialogue between characters and advance the story of the game. It is also possible to make dialogue choices within conversations that can sometimes lead to change in the path of the story.

Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales gameplay

You must also manage resources efficiently and recruit units within a customizable war camp, from which you can build an army and take part in epic story battles that affect the way the game plays out. Battles are done through Gwent, with over 250 cards available to use throughout the game. Special cards and leader cards are also available and provide various perks and advantages to help you claim victory. The game also implements story specific mechanics into Gwent,

If you are enjoying this article, you might like reading about the best free RPG games for the PC.

The Good

Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales has a good amount of content, with over 30 hours of story gameplay and 20 possible different outcomes to the game based on your decisions. In addition to the main story, the game has 75 side quests that are predominantly based around solving puzzles.

The story is captivating, and the characters are engaging, particularly Queen Meve, whose choices can occasionally make her seem morally questionable. These types of intriguing characters are exactly the type that you want to see in an RPG game.

Voice acting in the game is top level, as was the case with The Witcher 3, and this is supplemented with a beautiful artistic style and high-level animations.

The Bad

Thronebreaker has also had its negative critics since its release, with many claiming that the gameplay is quite slow and boring. Some players claim to have completed the game in just a few days of casual playing and, because of this, feel that the game does not justify its price tag.

Thronebreaker: animated cutscene

The game’s story has also been criticised for its linearity. Some players of Thronebreaker feel like they didn’t have enough of an active role in the plot, which inhibited the immersion of the game and rendered a lot of the dialogue pointless.

Other criticisms have pointed towards the ease of the gameplay, with some players revealing that they only had to change their Gwent deck a few times in order to complete a battle and progress through the story.

Should I buy Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales?

Overall, Thronebreaker is a fantastic blend of storytelling, RPG gaming, adventure and strategy, which all rolls neatly together into a big ball of highly captivating and impressive gameplay.

If you are not fan of card games, the story itself makes the game a must buy, especially for those who are familiar with the series. If you are a fan of card games but not the series, it is also still worth trying, as Gwent is a thoroughly well-thought out strategy game that can test your tactical abilities.

Gwent: The Witcher Card Game

Similar Games to Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales

If you like Thronebreaker, you might also like Magic: The Gathering – Puzzle Quest, which has a similar battling ard game system. You may also like Hand of Fate 2 and Hex: Shards of Fate, which are card-based games with elements of RPG and fantasy.

Get in touch

If you liked this article, you might like our article on what is the best final fantasy game?

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed the content. Whether you agree or disagree with the content, it would be great to hear your thoughts, comments, and questions. If you have any, please get in touch below or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.

Thanks.

Richard, Blog of Games

This game features one of the best combat systems, complete with a vast array of light and heavy attacks, graceful evasions, and deadly counter attacks. For Honor comes with 4 different warrior classes you can choose from which includes Samurai, Viking, Knight, and Wu Lin. But which warriors among them are the most effective and fun to play with? Read on to learn about the best For Honor warrior choice.

For Honor – Samurai

Samurais are incredible fighters with a style of Japanese origin – they can very precisely cut their enemies in half in swift maneuvers with their sharp swords. Samurais are a great choice as a warrior because they can be a huge asset to your team. You can do different heavy and light attacks with them, but you’ll need to be very exact – one wrong move and you could take a lot of damage from the enemy. In For Honor, you will have to face some of the strongest enemies of all time and Samurais can be a great choice to deal with them.

There are 7 Different warriors in the ‘Samurai’ category which include Kensei, Shugoki, Orochi, Nobushi, Shinobi, Aramusha and Hitokiri. All of these Samurais have their own unique style of fighting. All of these fighters have their own perks and cons.

Kensie is a great warrior with a wide approach, strong attacks and reasonably good defense, but takes a lot of time to launch a heavy attack which is a downside for them.

Shugoki is considered by many to be the worst hero of the game because he is too slow and there’s not much he can do to counter enemy attacks.

Orochi is an incredible assassin and her combat is even better, she is quick and deadly, and this combination makes her the most loved Samurai by many.

Nobushi is fairly a good fighter and she can do some serious amount of damage but fighting with her will feels like poking your enemies with a spear and I hardly believe you’ll enjoy playing with her.

Shinobi is a complete fighter with the right amount of attack and defense skills that will leave you in awe. Shinobi features many light and heavy attacks, along with long-range chain attacks that can completely dismantle the enemy.

Aramusha is an assassin/hybrid fighter who comes with two swords that can only do a limited amount of damage – and there are not many options after a counterattack, making him quite vulnerable in combat.

Last but not least, Hitokiri delivers the most heroic heavy attacks but his slow speed might be the biggest issue which makes him very vulnerable and open to counter attacks.

Best among the Samurai – Orochi

For Honor – Vikings

The Vikings are a class of Scandinavian warrior that were dominant throughout much of Europe between the 8^th and 11^th centuries. They are among the four factions in ‘For Honor’ and they are a force to be reckoned with. Vikings are ruthless attackers and hell raisers – and they can do a great deal of damage to their enemies using some iconic Viking-era weaponry. The Viking category features 7 great warriors that you can choose from. They are the Raider, Warlord, Berserker, Valkyrie, Highlander, Shaman and Jormungandr. All of them have their own unique style of combat that can be equally entertaining.

Vikings are truly the most ruthless, vicious, barbaric, and ferocious fighters that you will ever get your hands on. Yet, as with all the classes, they have their limitations.

The Raider can only be defined in one word – legendary. He can deliver some of the heaviest attacks and his light attacks are very brutal as well. He can also do a 360’ move that completely stuns enemies. Yet, despite his unique tactics, it takes a lot of time to launch a heavy attack and it can be a little distracting.

The Warlord can be best described as the old school Viking that features a sword and a shield in his hands and packs some reasonable headbutts and sprint attacks. Other than some good counters, though, there’s not much more to him.

The Berserker is the perfect fit for someone looking to deliver back to back heavy attacks accompanied by dodges and brutal counterattacks. There is not much uniquity to their combat, though.

The Valkyrie is a combination of an assassin/hybrid warrior who can get the job done with a deadly spear. She can deliver some pretty good heavy attacks and her light attacks are not too shabby, either. Moreover, she is among the deadliest warriors in the game and, if you giver her a shot, you will likely discover a new favorite.

The Highlander is a giant, equipped with a sword larger than himself, and is one of the most effective and brutal among all of the Vikings. The Highlander has two stances, defense and offense which makes him very unique and one of a kind.

The Shaman is very much similar to the Berserker, but they have some different tactics up their sleeves that can make you fall in love with them in a whole different way. The Shaman delivers many combos of heavy and light attacks and they are very decorated warriors.

Last, we have the mighty Jormungandr (Huge Monster in Old Norse) who is a brutal and fearless warrior equipped with a hammer-like weapon and can land some pretty heavy and deadly attacks. For many, though, the Jormundandr can feel slightly sluggish in attack and has the potential to be frustrating for the player.

Best Among the Vikings – Raider

For Honor – Knights

The Knight is another faction in For Honor that you can enjoy as the player. They are the most disciplined warrior among all of the classes. Knights are equipped with a lot of armor and they can be a great asset to your team. The only thing these Knights are missing are the horses that they are usually associated with. There are 7 warriors in the Knight faction that you can play as – they are the Warden, Conqueror, Peacekeeper, Lawbringer, Centurion, Gladiator, and Black Prior.

All of these Knights have their own perks and cons. The Warden is famous for his great defense and counterattacks, and his height is a great advantage in the battle. His wide approach can also cut enemies into pieces from a mile away. Heavy attacks take a while to launch, but with a great defense system, the risk is worth taking. Other than that, there’s nothing extraordinary about the warden.

The Conqueror is a complicated character who has been a part of many controversies. The Conqueror is a lethal warrior that can deliver both heavy and light attacks with precision, causing great damage to the opponent. However, the Conqueror’s defense system is not too great at all – a major downside for this warrior.

The Peacekeeper is one of the best warriors among the knights. She can land heavy and light attacks with fast precision and accuracy, making her one of the most beloved warriors of the Knight Faction. Her low-n-quick maneuver makes her even more lethal and is one of the sharpest attacks across all classes.

With the Lawbringer, it’s all about timing your attacks, and landing heavy and light attack combinations. However, landing those combos sometimes feels more like watching it in slow-motion because they are extremely lethargic and, in truth, extremely annoying.

Next, we have the Centurion, who is famous for his three different heavy attacks that can destroy enemies in a instant. Yes, they are quite fast, so you don’t have to worry about their speed. The Centurion is easily among the most playable characters from the Knight faction and, indeed, across all the classes.

The Gladiator will give you some Aquaman vibes because he holds the same spear as him and dresses in a somewhat familiar fashion. The Gladiator can do good damage with his spear, using his unblockable heavy attacks and supplementing them with piercing jabs and light attacks. You will enjoy playing with this one.

Black Prior is a warrior that you’d be forgiven for not recognizing as a knight. His old raggy clothes suggest a less regal title, but that shouldn’t deceive you. The Black Prior comes with a sword and a shield with some brutal combos to dismantle your enemies. He can deliver lethal heavy, light, and counterattacks but lacks the ability to easily break the guard of enemies.

Best Among the Knights – Centurion

For Honor – Wu Lin

Wu Lin is the newest playable faction in For Honor. The Wu Lin warriors are from the era of ancient China, and they move faster than the blink of the eye. Unlike the other factions, The Wu Lin only consists of 5 warrior choices, including Tiadi, Jiang Jun, Nuxia, Shaolin, and Zhanhu.

Wu Lin warrior provides unique gameplay that you won’t experience from any other faction and you will love their combat once you have played with them. Tiandi is unbelievably fast and can land combos of light and heavy attacks mixed with an extensive amount of dodges that will leave your enemies with a great amount of damage. Speed is the key when playing with Tiandi and it will take some time to perfect. It should be noted that Tiandi can be quite difficult when playing for the first time.

Jiang Jun can be best described as a combination of Berserker and Nobushi. A lot of Jiang Jun tactics are similar to them. Jiang Jun has a wide approach, lethal finishers, and strong attacks that help to chop enemies down from a distance. However, stamina might be an issue when you are playing with this character.

Nuxia features the best 3-hit chain attack in the whole game and it is a delight to behold. The most unique feature of Nuxia is that she can set traps for her enemies by confusing them with misdirections and launching a chain attack in the meantime. Despite her uniqueness, sprint attacks might be hard to land.

The Shaolin is a ferocious monk who is known for their disciplined combat. The Shaolin can launch an endless stream of chaos on enemies and can dismantle them with ease, providing they have the stamina. Yet, launching an endless attack chain could lead to less stamina and it could ruin the whole battle.

Finally, we have the mighty Zhanhu who is known for his long sword that can cut enemies from every direction in a single chain. Zhanhu has great tactics that can come in handy when you are facing the fiercest of enemies. Zhanhu features a variety of heavy and light attacks backed with great defensive stance that can really help with counterattacks.

Best Among Wu Lin – Tiandi

Developer: Eidos Montréal

Publisher: Square Enix

Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Linux, macOS

What Is Deus Ex: Mankind Divided?

Deus Ex Mankind Divided – Gameplay

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is an action role-playing cyberpunk game that is the fourth entry of the Deus Ex series following on from the 2011 title, Deus Ex: Human Revolution. It is set in 2029, two years after its predecessor.

The game primarily takes place in Prague, though parts of the story see some events occur in London and Dubai. In line with the series’ cyberpunk elements, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided explores themes of elite secret societies, cybernetics, biotechnology, and unjust social division. A key aspect of the game is the divide between normal humans and augmentations, or “augs”, who are people that have technologically enhanced themselves.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided was well received when it was released, and the game was praised for its gameplay, story and graphics. It was seen as a worthy successor to Human Revolution, but there is a general consensus that the story was too short, meaning the game’s characters were underdeveloped and one-dimensional. This has, however, left people calling for the release of a new Deus Ex game.

In this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review, we will explain why the game is worth trying, and why it is one of the best cyberpunk video games available right now.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Story

Deus Ex Mankind Divided – Cyberpunk World

In Deus Ex: Mankind Divided players take on the role of Adam Jensen, a human who became heavily augmented following an assault on Sarif Industries, where he worked as Chief of Security.

The game begins in Dubai, where Adam is undertaking a mission for anti-terrorist unit Task Force 29 (TF29), before being intercepted and attacked by a mercenary group of the augmented. Adam returns to Prague after the mission and becomes involved in a mission to discover who attempted to bomb the city.

Adam’s journey takes him on a trail of the illuminati, who have begun to use advanced biological weapons in order to kill high-level opponents to their causes. Struggling to know who to trust, Adam finds himself involved with the Augmented Rights Coalition (ARC), a controversial group that acts as a resistance to the abuse of the augmented. Adam encounters many twists and turs from here on in, and what follows is a truly engaging and well-constructed plotline that, deliberately or not, delivers messages pertinent to contemporary society.

The story in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is heavily rooted in cyberpunk and futuristic themes and attempts to evoke thought of societal injustice in the mind of the payer. Adam is a member of the augmented, a supposedly enhanced version of the human race as we know it. Yet, he and many other “augs” are segregated and looked down on as morally inferior by the game’s “normal” human population.

Deus Ex – Adam Jensen

Is this a sign of things to come? Either way, it’s certainly food for thought and, if your imagination allows, it’s possible to predict a time in the not-so-distant future where this scenario could become a reality. This is why the cyberpunk genre strikes a chord with so many people and why we say in this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review, that this game is one of the best cyberpunk video games available right now.

Without giving too much away in this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review, it should be known that the story, however brief, is rich in content and emotion. The game also ends without a definitive conclusion, leaving the possibility of a new Deus Ex game being released in the future.

If you’re enjoying this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review, you might also like our Observer video game review, another one of the best cyberpunk games available right now.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Gameplay

Deus Ex Mankind Divided – Graphics

The Deus Ex: Mankind Divided gameplay is similar to previous instalments in the series. It is a first-person shooter with elements of adventure and stealth. Some animations in the game, such as taking cover and melee attacks, switch to a third-person view. Both open world and linear environments are incorporated into the game for players to explore.

Throughout the game, you will encounter various non-playable characters with whom you can interact with and will aid you in completing both main and side story quests. Completing more quests and discovering new areas will reward the player with experience points, enables players to upgrade Adam’s abilities. An in-game currency called Credits can also be acquired which allow the player to purchase item and equipment from black-market shops.

Players can adopt different strategies to progress throughout the game. Those of a more gung-ho disposition can violently enter situations all guns blazing, while those who favour stealth can equip themselves suitably to avoid the danger and silently eliminate enemies with non-lethal weapons.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided Review – The Good

Deus Ex Mankind Divided – Prague

• Story: In this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review, we have already discussed how good the story is, and it is worth reiterating. This action role-playing game has a good blend of action, stealth, exploration, and character development, all of which combine to make this one of the best cyberpunk video games of all time.  
• Setting: Seeing Prague in a futuristic cyberpunk setting is definitely a highlight of the game. It is not the only location that you will are able to explore, but it is the largest one and acts as a base for you to go travel from to other areas throughout the game. It is quite easy to spend hours just roaming around the city and taking in the sci-fi vibes while listening to the citizens liaise with each other.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided Review – The Bad

Deus Ex Mankind Divided – Metro

• Lip Sync: One aspect of the game that is noticeably flawed is the lip syncing. This is slightly disappointing, especially when you consider how good the voice acting in the game is.
• Length: A lot of criticism of the game was aimed at how short the story is. It is true that the main quest line is a little on the short side, but it didn’t feel like a problem for us as the content was so good. There is also a lot of exploration in the game which occupies a lot of game time.

Games like Deus Ex: Mankind Divided

If you’ve already completed the game and are looking for a similar fix, there are plenty of other titles out there to try. Here are some more games like Deus Ex: Mankind Divided:

• System Shock 2
• BioShock
• Anachronox
• Thief
• Prey

Blog of Games Rating

You can probably tell from reading this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review that we are fans of the title. Despite, this is still one the best cyberpunk games around. We award the game 8/10.

Get in Touch

If you enjoyed reading this Deus Ex: Mankind Divided review, you might also like our Resident Evil 2 remake review.

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed the content. Whether you agree or disagree with the content, it would be great to hear your thoughts, comments, and questions. If you have any, please get in touch below or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.

When it comes to graphics both games are pretty good in their own way. 2k has better lighting than NBA live. This lighting makes the faces of the players pop and looks lifelike. Also, some features show up more clearly in 2k due to this lighting. However, when it comes to player models EA coms out victorious.  They have taken into account of every feature of a player even overdoing themselves when it comes to sweat.

• When it comes to animation 2k scores 2 points against NBA live.

NBA Live 19 Graphics

The animation aspect takes into account the overall movement of these two games.  2k has some really good animations and it feels that your character does exactly what you want it to. This makes for a great game feel as one becomes immersed in the game. On the other hand, NBA live will take some getting used to. The game feels a bit stiffer and animation based. For instance, when driving for a dunk you cannot stop the animation when it starts. This breaks the immersion and makes the game feel less fluid.

• When it comes to graphics these games are even

One of the most important things to consider in these games is basketball courts. It feels great when a game is accurate here. It helps you stay immersed in the game as it becomes more lifelike.  Here both games perform well as the depictions of the basketball courts are really solid. However, NBA live has outdone itself here. Their courts look great and you have a variety of courts to choose from. Also, you can customize your own court. On the flipside, 2K still has good looking courts but loses out when it comes to variety and customization.

• When it comes to the arenas NBA Live retaliates and scores 2 points on 2k

NBA Live 19 Gameplay

In any game, soundtracks are some of the most important aspects to take into consideration.  This is why games take to use a large some of their budget getting the freshest tracks on their games. Having the right soundtrack in a game can make all the difference when it comes to gameplay and immersion. EA has a larger number of fresh soundtracks on their games. 2K still has some good soundtracks but pales in comparison to NBA Live’s soundtracks.

• When it comes to soundtracks NBA live dunks 2 points on 2K.

Ball physics is an essential part of any basketball video game. In fact, the game’s realism and immersion are totally dependent on this feature. 2k has been around for a longer and more consistent time. During this time they have been able to iron out any ball physics issues that the game may have had. In contrast, NBA Live has been on and off game production. Consequently, they are a bit behind when it comes to ball physics.  

• When it comes to ball physics, 2K scores two points on NBA Live

NBA Live – Ball Physics

Sometimes you have no one to play a game with and have to play a single-player mode. This is where the games AI comes in. 2K has some of the best AI in the sports genre of games. Frankly, the AI is a genius carrying out some complex game plan moves. This will leave you at the edge of your seat as it is very challenging to beat the AI at higher levels. Consequently, the game feels a bit more fun and you might just forget that you are playing with an AI. NBA Live’s AI sucks. Half the time it is hard to picture what exactly artificial intelligence is thinking as it makes some disgusting plays.

• When it comes to AI 2K has NBA Live beaten. 2 more points

Commentary is an important part of any sport. It keeps the audience entertained while still informing everyone what is happening in the game. Commentary is even more important in a basketball video game as it will let you know vital information like who fouled who. Moreover, it also keeps you immersed in the game. Here 2K has NBA live beat. EA has the idea to update commentary as the real basketball season progresses. However, they still will not be able to beat 2k with some of the best commentaries in any sports game.

• 2k is dominating with 2 more points when it comes to commentary.

NBA 2K – Commentary

In-game currency has become a real nuisance in the gaming industry. Once a person has paid for a game it is a bit unfair to ask them to continue paying for things in the game. 2k is one such game. The game’s in-game currency is also known as VC or Virtual currency. You have to pay real money to get VC so that you can customize your player’s looks, tattoos or hair. Here NBA Live wins as it has some free things such as hairstyles and tattoos. This gives you more attachment to your character.

• NBA live scores 3 points for caring more about their customers

NBA Live 19 Player Customization

Nothing beats a good story mode in a game. Not only does it make you better at the game, but it also gives you a reason to keep playing even when alone. The ultimate story mode keeps the player entertained and immersed in the game. 2k’s story mode has a good storyline with very good character development. In contrast, NBA Live lacks good character development but has a good real-life aspect. For instance, NBA Live uses some cut scenes that have real-life YouTubers talking about your character.

• Here 2k scores to more points for the immersion that is character development

Online gaming is a good way to bring players from all over together. Here, both these games have excelled well. There new additions to both games such as the 5 on 5 multiplayer matches that have taken the world by storm.  In online gaming, these games see eye to eye with very similar approaches.

• When it comes to online gameplay, it is a tie.

It is important to note that all games have a huge fan base which goes to say all games are good. That being said a deeper look into the games features reviles one true winner.

• NBA 2K – 10 : 7 – NBA Live

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeRinCZ6FmY

What is Red Dead Redemption 2 about?

The game is a prequel to the award-winning 2010 title Red Dead Redemption and is the third instalment of the Red Dead series by Rockstar Games.

It is set in a vast, Western-themed open world, and revolves around the gun-slinging outlaw, Arthur Morgan. Morgan is a member of the Van der Linde gang, which also comprises of the protagonist (John Marston) and antagonist (Dutch Van der Linde) from the previous game.

Set in 1899 – the latter years of America’s “Wild West” – the game is premised with a botched robbery attempt in the town of Blackwater, after which members of the Van der Linde gang are forced to flee. With the nation’s bounty hunters and authorities hot on his heels, Morgan is forced to traverse America via a life of crime, leading to internal conflict and testing his loyalty to the gang. Morgan will also have to make moral judgements throughout the game, too, and this honor system – which is carried over from the previous instalment – means that the decisions you make will have consequences down the line and lead to different pathways of opportunities.

How is the gameplay in Red Dead Redemption 2?

A big feature of the game is the nomadic lifestyle that you must live. Camps will act as the base for your roaming adventures, and here you can interact and build relationships with other members of the group. It is also possible to pick up extra missions and contribute wealth and provisions for the benefit of the camp.

Outside of camp life, Morgan will be able to interact with all of the other non-playable characters (NPCs) in the game. This is where the honor system will come into play, as these NPCs will start to react to you based on your previous actions in the game – it’s probably worth considering this before riding rampantly through the Old West towns all guns blazing (this message is more aimed at myself than anyone else…).

One thing that all of the pre-launch reviews agree on is the wonderment and awe of the map. Within this vast open world, the player will encounter various beasts – bison, bears, foxes, deer, just to name a few of the hundreds (yes, hundreds!) of species in the game. Some are available to hunt for food, others will provide trading items, and some are just out there watching the world go by as they please. The main animal is, of course, your horse, and you must look after it

Character customization

One of the most exciting aspects of the game is the character customization and maintenance, and Rockstar have tried to make the game as immersive and lifelike as possible in this respect. Morgan will experience real-time hair growth, and players will have to visit the barber to have a cut and style, based solely on the amount of hair available on his head (no GTA-style afros being fashioned out of hairless heads, unfortunately). Items of clothing will also be able to be individually put on and taken off, enabling unique character outfit choices – keep an eye on your hat, too, it can fall off in combat if you’re not careful.

Players will have to look out for Morgan’s health, as his energy will diminish as time passes and he becomes drained from all of his gun-slinging, horse-riding shenanigans. For this, he must sleep to stay alert, and feed to maintain energy, with weight being another dynamic feature of the game. His cleanliness – or lack of – will be noted by other NPCs in the game, too, and Morgan needs to take baths in order to avoid snide comments from passers-by on the street.

Red Dead Redemption 2 graphics

The visuals in this game are truly stunning. In our opinion, this game will look good no matter what console you play on, and the gameplay trailers show that it runs solidly at 30ps. The attention to detail is simply breath-taking in this game – from the snow melting on the character in the mountainous regions, to the mud splattering on Morgan’s clothes whilst riding through the outback. The impressive graphics and the diverse environments of this huge open world map will certainly serve to enhance the games level of immersion.

When will Red Dead Redemption 2 be released?

The game will be released on October 26, 2018, and Rockstar have made special, ultimate, and collector’s editions available for pre-order. The game will also feature online multiplayer capabilities, with Red Dead Online planned for release in November 2018 as a public beta. This multiplayer mode looks incredible and if it is anything like GTA Online, players will be able to expect something spectacular.

If it isn’t obvious already, Blog of Games is stupidly excited for the release of this game. We believe it will surpass the heights of the previous instalment and could, potentially, go down as one of the greatest games to ever be released. It seems Rockstar Games have produced another classic here, and one which we certainly recommend you try. Are you excited for the game? Let us know in the comments below.

If you liked this article, you might also like our article about free open world games.

Get in touch

Thanks for reading this article and I hope you enjoyed the content. Whether you agree or disagree with the content, it would be great to hear your thoughts, comments, and questions. If you have any, please get in touch below or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.

Thanks.

Richard, Blog of Games

There are over 200 animal species in Red Dead Redemption 2

Developer: Capcom R&D Division 1

Publisher: Capcom

Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Resident Evil 2: Remake – Story

Resident Evil 2 is a survival horror game that was originally released in 1998 for the PlayStation and has been rebooted for a second release on multiple platforms in 2019. In this Resident Evil 2 remake review, we will judge the game solely on the remake, so as to not be biased by any affection for the original.

Resident Evil 2 Remake – Zombie

The game follows the characters of Leon Kennedy, a rookie police officer, and Claire Redfield, a college student, as they find themselves immersed within a zombie apocalypse trying to escape Racoon City. Inhabitants of the city are being transformed into the undead by a biological weapon called the T-virus, developed by the big-pharma company Umbrella.

Leon, who is on his first day of duty, and Claire, who is looking for her brother Chris, discover that the majority of the police force at the Raccoon Police Department have been wiped out and then split up in order to find survivors in the city, encountering some interesting folk along the way.

The duo come to learn about a new G-virus that is capable of transforming humans into an extreme mutant bioweapon. Without giving too much away, the story then follows their journey to discover the truth about the G-virus and find a way to vaccinate it or escape from it.

If you’re enjoying this Resident Evil 2 remake review, you might also like our article on the best free PlayStation VR horror games available in 2019.

Resident Evil 2: Remake – Gameplay

The first notable difference between the original and the remake is that the Resident Evil 2 remake ditches tank controls in favour of an over-the-shoulder third-person shooter perspective, akin to Resident Evil 4. This is a great move, in our book, and makes the gameplay far more fluid, immersive and enjoyable, whilst still enabling survival horror to be the main focus of the gameplay.

Resident Evil 2 Remake – Combat

The game frequently involves puzzles and problem solving, all of which are fun and fairly challenging but do require a lot of backtracking to previously seen locations which, for some, may become repetitive. As in the original, players are required to loot their surroundings in order to gather resources and find items, yet the remake makes this a less restricting task, and players are free to explore more areas and mix up the pace of the game.

In terms of graphics, the Resident Evil 2 remake does a great job at keeping visuals crisp and smooth with some high-quality textures and ultra-realistic environments (well, minus the zombies…). If you have played the original, it feels like a real treat to see these familiar environments touched up graphically but, even to a newcomer to the game, it visually stands up well to any other game in the survival horror genre.

The combat is aptly made for a survival horror experience – nothing too extravagant and does the basics well. Players can aim their firearms using the crosshair and fend off enemy zombies whilst trying desperately not to waste the scarcely found ammunition. There is also the option to fend off zombies with a combat knife after one of them grabs you, though you must remember to pick up the knife from the undead body before continuing on.

Resident Evil 2 Remake – The Good

If you’ve read any other Resident Evil 2 remake review, it has most likely been a positive one. The game has been well received by most who have played it, and for good reason.

Resident Evil 2 Remake – Claire and Leon

The game stays loyal to the original while injecting a fresh perspective and a new lease of life in the form of a different camera angle, much-improved graphics, and smooth combat and gameplay.

With this game, Capcom have shown that a reboot can not only be as good as the original but shine brightly in its own light. They have also created a renewed buzz around the Resident Evil franchise and lovers of the RE series will now be waiting with anticipation to see what the Japanese game developer have in store next.

Resident Evil 2 Remake – The Bad

It is difficult to find a bad Resident Evil 2 remake review at this stage, and the game has received almost unanimous critical acclaim. That being said, a few gamers have certain gripes and complaints about the survival horror game.

Resident Evil 2 Remake – Leon

Perhaps the most common complaint is the decision to use an over-the-shoulder third-person perspective camera as opposed to the fixed camera from the original game. Others have also suggested that the game would have benefited from 1st person camera, like that of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, in order to maximise the suspense and horror elements of the game.

Other complaints have been aimed at the sometimes-repetitive nature of puzzles, tracking back and forth to various locations in order to find and place items in the correct places in order to progress through the game.

Should I Play The Resident Evil 2 Remake?

In a word, yes. This game is a masterpiece, regardless of whether you have played the original or not.

If you are looking for an engaging survival horror title to immerse yourself in, or if you are just looking to take a trip down memory lane while marvelling at the impressive touch-up job that Capcom have done, you won’t be disappointed.

Games Like Resident Evil 2 Remake

If you have already played RE2 and are looking for another horror title to sink your teeth into, here are a few other games like Resident Evil 2 remake for you to be getting on with:

• The Evil Within
• The Last of Us
• Dead Rising 3
• Call of Cthulhu
• Dead Space

Get in Touch

If you liked this article, you might enjoy reading our post about the best free online horror games.

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed the content. Whether you agree or disagree with the content, it would be great to hear your thoughts, comments, and questions. If you have any, please get in touch below or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.

Developer: Stormind Games

Publisher: Darril Arts

Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Remothered: Tormented Fathers – Story

Remothered Tormented Fathers – Review

Remothered: Tormented Fathers is a survival horror game that was released in 2018 and is seen as the spiritual successor to the Japanese horror series, Clock Tower. The game is set in the house of Dr Richard Felton, a place where strange happenings and dark secrets are abundant.

In the game, players take on the role of Ms Rosemary Reed (imagine Jodie Foster, and you’ve just imagined the protagonist) as she attempts to uncover the strange disappearance of Dr Felton’s daughter, Celeste. You quickly get to learn that all is not as it seems in Dr Felton’s mansion, and you are thrown into some uncomfortable situations as a result. Rosemary is a likeable character who ingratiates herself to players from the outset with an inquisitive and focussed approach.

Various characters are introduced at the beginning of the game, and you’ll have to stay focused for the first half hour or so, which plays out as an extended storytelling cutscene with minimal character control. This can seem a little tedious at times but persevering with the game’s plotline will enable you to get more enjoyment out of it. Without giving too much of the plot away, the game throws some psychotic characters at you and you have to figure out the best way to deal with the situation.

If you are enjoying this Remothered: Tormented Fathers review, you might like our review of the best free online horror games.

Remothered: Tormented Fathers – Gameplay

Remothered Tormented Fathers – Gameplay

The Remothered: Tormented Fathers gameplay is smooth and plays out nicely. The developers have done a great job at creating the moody and atmospheric environment that one would expect in a horror-mystery game. The house is dimly lit and suspenseful, while the dark and stormy weather outside sets the tone for the journey ahead.

The game is played from a third-person perspective and focuses on stealth. Players are not able to attack or eliminate enemies in the game and must instead rely on diversion tactics. Snow globes and other items can be picked up and thrown as a distraction for oncoming assailants. Alternatively, sharp objects can be used to hinder enemy advances. Aside from evading eerie foes, there are various puzzles to be completed throughout the game, too, though none are too challenging.

Another great aspect of Remothered: Tormented Fathers gameplay is the level of immersion created through audio and visuals. This survival horror game is abundant with chilling screams and distorted images that create a pulsating intensity that players won’t forget in a hurry. The graphics are smooth and more than sufficient, with highly textured objects and an impressive level of detail.

Remothered: Tormented Fathers – The Good

Remothered Tormented Fathers – Stealth

Fans of the Clock Tower Japanese horror games will enjoy this one – the game is heavily influenced by it and creates an unnerving experience in a similar fashion, less reliant on jump scares and more focussed horror borne out of mystery.

Perhaps the best feature of the game is the suspense it creates throughout the course of the game. One feature that aids this is the focus required during hiding, and not just the ability to get to a concealed position. Once you are hidden, players have to make sure they (and their controllers) remain completely stationary so as to not alert enemies. This can become quite tense when you are attentively listening out for any hint of your assailant without any way to see them.

Remothered: Tormented Fathers – The Bad

Remothered Tormented Fathers – Celeste Felton

Some reviewers have commented that the game feels like a rip off various horror classics such as Silence of the Lambs, Resident Evil, etc. But, whilst there are similarities, I think the game is trying more to pay homage to these titles as opposed to ripping them off.

Another possible criticism of the game is the repetitive dialogue of the antagonist when in pursuit. A bit of diversity would have gone a long way to reducing the monotony of the chases.

Games Like Remothered: Tormented Fathers

If you enjoyed this survival horror game, there are plenty of other titles out there that you are bound to enjoy. Here are some games like Remothered: Tormented Fathers for you to try out:

• Alien: Isolation
• The Evil Within 1 and 2
• Resident Evil 2 remake

Conclusion

Remothered: Tormented Fathers is a game that all lovers of survival horror games will enjoy. The story is engaging, and the atmosphere is suspenseful and edgy. If you haven’t tried this horror game yet, we strongly recommend you do.

Thanks for reading our Remothered: Tormented Fathers review, and we hope you enjoyed it. If you liked this article, you might also like our The Inpatient VR Review.

Whether you agree or disagree with the content, it would be great to hear your thoughts, comments, and questions. If you have any, please get in touch below or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.

Richard, Blog of Games

Developed by Frictional Games (the same developers as Amnesia and Penumbra), this horror game has good stock and is bound to have plenty to offer. With that in mind, here is our SOMA game review.

What is SOMA?

SOMA is a science fiction survival horror game that was initially released in 2015 by Frictional Games. The game is set in an underwater research facility called PATHOS-II, which contains advanced AI that have taken on human characteristics and traits. PATHOS-II becomes the last place to host humanity after a meteor destroyed the Earth and led to a mass extinction event.

The player plays as Simon Jarrett, who has agreed to various brain experiments following a car crash in Toronto and is a patient of Dr Munshi, a York University graduate student. Simon awakes in the year 2104 and soon realises that he is the only surviving human following the obliteration of the earth by the comet’s impact.

Whilst in the underwater facility, Simon remotely contacts a character named Catherine Chun, who asks Simon to come and find her at Site Lambda. On his journey to find Catherine, Simon encounters various robots, both friendly and hostile, and has to solve various puzzles to progress throughout the underwater facility. The story has many twists and turns and focusses on the player’s quest to aid Catherine in her workings on the ARK project – a digital world powered by a supercomputer that has the intention of prolonging humanity.

Gameplay

This survival horror game is played from a first-person perspective and uses psychological horror as a key component of its gameplay. Enemies come in various forms and there is an array of different creatures that each serves as a representation of the game’s themes.

As with most previous titles by Frictional Games, SOMA does not have a combat system and the player must progress through the game by solving puzzles and using stealth to avoid enemy creatures.

During the game, the player will find clues scattered throughout the PATHOS-II facility in the form of notes and audio tapes. Each clue provides information about the plot and allows the player to advance further in the game.

Graphics

The graphics for SOMA are sufficient, but can not really be ascribed any adjective greater than ‘good’. Luckily, this does not impede the game’s ability to create suspense throughout the story, and having top-of-the-range visuals is not essential to delivering the main themes and concepts of the plot.

The game does still have some high-resolution textured objects which really come to life when you interact with them (and you can interact with a lot of objects), and this does wonders for the enhancing the immersion of the gameplay.

As with Insomnia, lighting plays a big part in setting the mood of the environment and does a great job in creating tension and fear in the player. The underwater settings are particularly impressive visually, and really make you feel like you are there hanging out with the robots and the creatures. Yet, one visual feature that left me with a slight headache was the rather generous use of chromatic aberration, this is used as a caution for nearby enemies so is quite useful, though it can eventually become tiring on the player’s eyes.

Sound

The sounds in the game make up a big part of how the game delivers its suspense. From breathing in your underwater suit to the slight movement of enemy creatures, every sound can have you on edge. This will keep you focussed and concentrated throughout the game, and will most likely lead to greater immersion and greater scares.

The background music is atmospheric without being overbearing. Its lack of purpose seems intentional and allows the player to direct their attention not other in-game sounds they may be more useful to the player.

The voice acting in the game is at a top level and the characters become more realistic with a natural speaking tone with nothing feeling forced or overdone. The same applies to the AI in the game who are voiced in an appropriately robotic manner.

The Good

Perhaps the main pull factor for this game is its story. As horror games go, SOMA is up there with the best for its plotline. The game takes you on an emotional journey that will make you ask questions about yourself and of the world around you. Without giving too much away, the game tackles philosophical and psychological issues that you can take away with you into reality.

SOMA is the most enjoyable survival horror title I have played in years and this is largely down to its thought-provoking story, but also because of its ability to create an appropriate level of suspense with creative sound and visuals.

The Bad

Despite most of the voice acting being of a high quality. Some criticism has been aimed at the lack of diversity in the speaking voice of the protagonist, Simon Jarrett.

Other criticisms of the game have been levelled at the pacing of the storyline and the length of the game.

SOMA Game Review – Where to Buy?

For PC gamer, you can buy SOMA on Steam here.

PlayStation gamers can find it here on the PS Store. 

Games Like SOMA

If you are a fan of survival horror games, here are some other games like SOMA that you may enjoy.

• Amnesia
• Penumbra
• Outlast
• Outlast 2

Get in touch

We hope you enjoyed our SOMA game review and, if you did, you might like our article on the best Japanese horror games ever made.

Like all reviews, our SOMA game review should not be taken as read, of course, and if you think we got something wrong or disagree with us, we’d love to hear from you! You can let us know in the comment section below, or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.

If you’re not convinced by our take, check out the SOMA game review by the always brilliant Gameranx below:

10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Developer: CD Projekt Red

Publisher: CD Projekt

Release Date: May 19, 2015

Genre: Action role-playing

Metacritic score: 91/100

The Witcher 3 Gameplay

It’s no surprise to see The Witcher 3 make the list of the top rated Xbox One games, and we have talked about how great this game is before in a list of the best RPG games to play right now.

This single player medieval fantasy game is played from third-person perspective, and will leave you feeling completely immersed through its engaging story, charming characters, and stunningly colorful visuals.

From Geralt’s light-hearted quips to a combat system that rivals the Assassin’s Creed series, this game has it all. If you haven’t tried it yet, believe the hype. This game is one of the best to ever be released, on all the platforms it has graced.

9. What Remains of Edith Finch

Developer: Giant Sparrow

Publisher: Annapurna Interactive

Release Date: July 19, 2017

Genre: Adventure

Metacritic score: 92/100

What Remains of Edith Finch – Gameplay

What Remains of Edith Finch was one of the highlights of 2017 for the gaming industry, and the dramatic retelling Edith’s family history became a masterpiece of narrative-driven gaming.

The game plays as a first-person exploration adventure, in which Edith visits her family home in Washington to learn about a curse that has burdened the Finch family for generations. To do this, Edith visits the bedrooms of deceased family members to look for secrets about their past.

The game was well received and was given numerous gaming awards in 2017, including the ‘Best Narrative’ trophy at The Game Awards 2017.

8. Divinity: Original Sin II – Definitive Edition

Developer: Larian Studios

Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment

Release Date: August 31, 2018

Genre: Role-playing

Metacritic score: 92/100

Divinity II – Original Sin Gameplay

This game is the much-anticipated sequel to the 2014 title Divinity: Original Sin, and it betters it in a lot of ways. The game is widely considered to be one of the best role-playing games of all time.

Divinity II is a game rich with folklore and character backstories, and has the potential to keep you occupied for weeks on end. For those who have been looking for a world similar to Skyrim to get lost and immersed in, the fantasy world of Rivellon could be what you’re after.

It is not surprising to find Divinity: Original Sin II on the list of top rated Xbox One games of all time, and this masterpiece is a game that you simply must try if you are fan of the role-playing genre.

7. Forza Horizon 4

Developer: Playground Games

Publisher: Microsoft Studios

Release Date: October 2, 2018

Genre: Racing

Metacritic score: 92/100

Forza Horizon 4 – Gameplay

Forza Horizon 4 is the only racing game on this list, but it fully warrants its place as one of the top rated Xbox One games of all time.

It is an open world racing game that is set in a fictionalised version of the United Kingdom. In this game, players can race their way through, Edinburgh, the Cotswolds, and the Lake District. You can also design your own races using the game’s route creator.

Its rare for a racing game to be so high in lists of highly-ranked games, but Forza Horizon 4 combines stunning environments with realistic driving mechanics to make one of the best racing games of recent memory.

6. INSIDE

Developer: Playdead

Publisher: Playdead

Release Date: June 29, 2017

Genre: Puzzle-platformer, adventure

Metacritic score: 93/100

INSIDE – Gameplay

INSIDE was a welcome surprise to the indie gaming scene in mid-2017, and it stood out from the rest with its unique environmental puzzle solving and sense of adventure. It is seen as the spiritual successor to the 2010 game Limbo, and was partially funded by the Danish Film institute.

In the game, the player controls an unnamed boy who explores a dystopian world. The game is charming and surreal, utilising a dark atmosphere with sparse and intermittent color to highlight environmental features.

Navigating the puzzles and avoiding the multitude of ways to die becomes an engaging and rewarding task, and the game is highly addictive with great replay value.

5. Resident Evil 2

Developer: Capcom R&D Division 1

Publisher: Capcom

Release Date: January 25, 2019

Genre: Survival horror

Metacritic score: 93/100

Resident Evil 2 – Gameplay

The remake of Resident Evil 2 was everything we hoped for, and more. It incorporates the same feel as the original, while adding some great new features such as a different camera angle and much-improved graphics.

As of the 1998 original wasn’t scary enough, the 2019 version amplifies that terror with its smooth and crisp gameplay. Following Leon and Claire through Racoon City has never felt so real and you will feel immersed within the zombie apocalypse.

With a good mix of problem solving and combat, the gameplay in this survival horror is both fun and edgy. If you haven’t tried the remake yet, you should. There is a reason why Resident Evil 2 is one of the top rated games for the Xbox One.

4. Celeste

Developer: Matt Makes Games

Publisher: Matt Makes Games

Release Date: January 25, 2018

Genre: Platform

Metacritic score: 94/100

Celeste – Gameplay

Another indie platform game to make the list of top rated Xbox One games, and for good reason. Celeste is a creative and refreshing take on the platform genre.

Players take on the role of Madeline as she tries to ascend Celeste Mountain while avoiding a multitude of obstacles. Madeline can run, jump, climb and dash through the air in her quest to get to the top. The game’s mechanics are particularly pleasing, as is the challenge the game presents – it’s not easy.

Every so often an indie game comes along and wows the gaming world, Celeste is one of such games and you should take a chance on it, if you haven’t already.

3. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

Developer: Kojima Productions

Publisher: Konami Digital Entertainment

Release Date: September 1, 2015

Genre: Action-adventure, stealth

Metacritic score: 95/100

Metal Gear Solid V – Gameplay

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain was one of the first true triple A titles to be released for eighth generation consoles, and the game still holds up as one of the best.

Set nine years after the events of the standalone prologue Ground Zeroes, the game follows “Venom” Snake as he attempts to get revenge on those who almost killed him during the end of previous title.

Fans of stealth and action-adventure will love this game, as it is hard to think of a series combines the two genres so expertly. The story is powerful and engaging, and the gameplay is advanced in terms of mechanics and AI. This is a must-try for those who haven’t played it yet.

2. Grand Theft Auto V

Developer: Rockstar North

Publisher: Rockstar Games

Release Date: September 17, 2013

Genre: Action-adventure

Metacritic score: 97/100

GTA V – Gameplay

Rockstar Games truly have a knack for creating immersive and alive open world environments, and San Andreas is the best yet in the Grand Theft Auto series.

You can explore the huge world from both first-person and third-person perspective, choosing between a variety of transport methods to get from place to place. Whilst the storyline is both fun and extensive, it’s possible that you’ll end up spending most of your time just exploring the urban and rural settings found in San Andreas.

Whether playing as Trevor, Franklin, or Michael, each character will offer you something different, and it is no surprise to see Grand Theft Auto V rank highly on the top rated Xbox One games of all time.

1. Red Dead Redemption 2

Developer: Rockstar Studios

Publisher: Rockstar Games

Release Date: October 26, 2018

Genre: Action-adventure

Metacritic score: 97/100

Red Dead Redemption 2 – Gameplay

For those who played the original title from Rockstar Games, it was difficult to contain the excitement and anticipation when Red Dead Redemption 2 was released in late 2019. The game met and surpassed all expectations.

This Wild West game
is set in a vast open world at the end of the 18th Century in the American frontier. Players take on the role of gun-slinging outlaw, Arthur Morgan, who is a member of the notorious Van Der Linde gang.

The dynamic world of Red Dead Redemption 2 is so huge and rich in diversity that players are still finding new ways to play now. The game is, arguably, the greatest open world role-playing game available on any video gaming platform, and it totally deserves to be number one in the top rated Xbox One games of all time.

Which game would you add to the top rated Xbox One games?

If you liked reading this list of the top rated Xbox One games, you might also like to check out our review of the best selling video game consoles ever released.

What is your favorite Xbox One game? Is it on this list? Let us know in the comments section and join our Blog of Games video game blog community. If you have any questions, please get in touch below or contact me at richard@blogofgames.com.