Please note that since each episode of Game of Thrones features the same graphics engine and control setup, those elements will not be repeated in our reviews for the final five episodes. To read our thoughts on that, refer to our review of Iron from Ice.
Video Game Review: Game of Thrones, Episode 5 Read Post »
There are three elements in play on each non-boss level: how fast you finish, how many of the 10 hostages you find/free and how much of the PHANTOM force you lay waste to. The first two elements have no bearing on advancement, existing purely to extend replay value, jockey for position on the leaderboards and earn some achievements/trophies. The third one, however, is needed to proceed as each level’s “dome” only unlocks after you’ve surpassed a specific point threshold.
Video Game Review: Tembo the Badass Elephant Read Post »
Although the mission structure remains familiar — complete quests, earn rewards, advance the story, etc. — the plot is different. This time Neptune gets caught in a space/time rift that transports her to an alternate dimension. It’s essentially the same world, but it’s an earlier time (Lastation and Leanbox both come into existence during the story arc) and none of the CPUs know who Neptune is. That allows for the introduction of a new CPU, Plutia, and plenty of old-school gaming references.
Video Game Review: Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth3: V Generation Read Post »
Combat in Hyperdimension Neptunia U is similar to the Dynasty Warriors series with dozens of enemies appearing at one time as little more than cannon fodder. Progression is done in two ways: you earn experience by defeating enemies and completing levels, and new items/boosts are unlocked by collecting medals from those vanquished foes. It’s a simple system designed to keep you grinding through battles again and again to acquire better weapons and equipment.
Video Game Review: Hyperdimension Neptunia U: Action Unleashed Read Post »
Like John Wick, Kingsman pushes the envelope with its stylized violence, mixing hand-to-hand combat with a generous helping of “gun fu.” The fight scenes are balls-out insane in the best possible way, highlighted by the absurdity that is the church massacre, which contains a nearly endless stream of countermoves and slick kills that leaves dozens of bodies in its wake. It’s played to such a ridiculous degree, however, that is never feels disturbing.
Blu-ray Review: Kingsman: The Secret Service Read Post »
As mentioned, Smith has always played the effortlessly cool character with ease, and even at 46 has no trouble projecting the steadying presence of someone that was brought up in the con game. He and Robbie have good chemistry and play off of each other well, which is important given they’re not only the central dynamic but also that the film is selling their relationship as a stumbling block for Smith, who typically has all the angles covered.
Blu-ray Review: Focus Read Post »
It’s hard not to marvel at some of the film’s special effects. Part of it is the shear spectacle — the vibrant colours, the intricate designs, the visualization of what the universe’s super rich would look like — but the film also still manages to ground much of it in some semblance of reality. Those aren’t CGI versions of Kunis and Tatum fleeing across Chicago on a pair of rocket skates, those are the actors (or in some cases their stunt doubles) getting pulled on cables and then having CGI added. It really makes a difference.
Blu-ray Review: Jupiter Ascending Read Post »
