Call of Duty: Vanguard | Review Update

It's been a long while since I reviewed or posted anything. If you've been following me on Twitter you'll know of my struggle with a serious drug resistant infection that has lasted over a month. That, and the passing of my Mother who had stage 4 small cell lung cancer. Between trying to survive the infection, and being there for my mother I had no time for anything else. I even spent 5 days in a hospital right before my Mother's passing. It's been hard, and has not been easy returning to the usual routine. Just know I'm better than I expected I'd be, and that my health is on the mend. 

Clockwork Aquario | PS4 Review

Welcome to the review of a 30 year old retro game that almost didn't see a console release. A Westone point focused platformer known as, "Clockwork Aquario". A game meant to be a SEGA release inspired by the Monster World games of yesteryear. Shelved in the early 90's, and almost forgotten, ININ Games in conjunction with Ratalaika Games finished, polished, and released this product with all the features fitting of their latest retro re-releases. You get six modes of play, a gallery, and instant access to the game's original soundtrack as well as it's remixed soundtrack. Host to 3 cartoony characters, and their fight against a fishy mastermind the game comes to life in the most vibrant of ways. With levels of lesser enemies in place for maximum point combos, as well as extra life opportunities, health refills, and a star powered power-ups. It's a short lived adventure where score matters, and how you take out the enemy equally as much.

Motivational Speech - Overcoming Oppression

Victims don't overcome. They don't rise above challenges or prove to themselves that they are not what others think of them. In their oppression they become the cannots, and can't haves. Instead of going that extra mile they stay behind or apply minimal effort hoping for that kindergarten level gold star that everyone gets just for being there. All while others get the medals, and trophies of true achievement. They get hand outs, and hand me downs instead of working hard to own and earn something worth being proud of. 

Okinawa Rush | Nintendo Switch Review

Behold! I present to you an indie game that blends the gore of Mortal Kombat, fully fledged fighting game mechanics, and the staple features of the Metroidvania genre. That game being Pixelheart's "Okinawa Rush". Through two different modes of play including Arcade and Story we find the stage by stage fight for revenge through the perspective of three different protagonists. Each starting off in a different part of the game's given world, and with different objectives in mind. One such character named Hiro finds his wife murdered by the rival Black Mantis ninja clan and his children kidnapped. All for his scrolls on martial arts. Thus he seeks revenge, and to rescue his children. On the flipside of the same story Hiro's brother, Shin, goes to investigate the happenings of the attack on the Okinawa village. Arriving via canoe only to follow the bloody trail in pursuit of the Black Mantis as they take his brother's children in tow. Lastly a female named Meilin enters the scene with her own side story that also starts at a different point of origin, but joins the others in a crossing of paths.

Call of Duty: Vanguard | PS4 Multiplayer Review

Warming up to Vanguard's latest multiplayer experience hasn't been the easiest of tasks. There are some things the game does not initially explain which are crucial to having a more enjoyable time. Though there are plenty of familiar aspects to it, and some slightly enhanced features this latest Call of Duty is a beast all unto itself. Some players will swear up and down that it's the worst game in the series while others might tell you it's alright. In my opinion it makes running and gunning doable again, and camping less of an issue. 

Gynoug | PS4 Review

Gynoug, or Wings of Wor was originally a Sega Mega Drive exclusive which was released in 1991 by Masaya Games. The same development studio that made the questionably erotic shmup Cho Aniki. This insane metal as f**k shmup that is Gynoug comes at the player balls to the wall with no explanation whatsoever, much like the studio's other wacky release. There's no story, and no mechanics breakdown beyond the control map menu. All I know, and all most players of the game know is that you are a winged angelic warrior who is out shooting the hell out of twisted creatures. Creatures that include Masonic symbols, no less ...

Circa Infinity | Nintendo Switch Review

What's white, black, and red all over? Reddeer's "Circa Infinity"!!! This perplexing platformer puzzle of a game that is definitely not a newspaper holds no hands as you start your playthrough. There's no tutorial, and beyond the humanoid figure falling into the circular abyss there's not much else disclosed. Lucky for you I figured it out fairly easily. Circa Infinity is definitely a play on it's namesake. It features circles within circles with pie shaped slices slightly detached. These pie shaped slices act as flipping entry points for the outside walking humanoid. A way to fall further down into the depths of wherever the hell it is you're going, and it might in fact be hell considering the dangerous red demons you encounter along the way.

Cotton 100% | PS4 Review

You know you're in for a treat when the first thing you hear at a game's title screen is one of the best parts of Beethoven's 9th Symphony done in bit tune. That is the case with "Cotton 100%", and it's Western port from ININ Games. Originally developed by Success for the Super Famicom, and published by Datam Polystar in 1994 this retro Cotton themed shmup in all it's original glory delivers the experience in a more digestible and modernized form. More basic than previous entries, but staying true to the base mechanics we've witnessed up to this point. In it we find Cotton, and her fairy sidekick Silk once again in hot pursuit of willow candies. That and trying to save the world from the peril of monsters. Whether or not they come out victorious, and with willow in hand is up to you, the player.

Panorama Cotton | PS4 Review

Through the joint efforts of ININ Games and Ratalaika Games "Panorama Cotton" makes it's way to modern consoles in a faithful port with some added bonus features. This 1994 rail shooter which originated on the Sega Mega Drive as a Japanese exclusive title is now available on American PS4s. A game which had previously not been seen on Western gaming consoles. It was originally published by Sunsoft, and developed by a studio known as Success. Fans of the original will be glad to know that this port is a more direct port in that it retains it's Japanese language as well as the original graphic design. New to the mix though are two modes of play. Including a Standard mode for a more leisurely playthrough, and Challenge for that intended challenge. Standard mode comes with a rewind feature, save state option, and cheats that can be unlocked and used by beating the game's original mode. In Challenge, however, the original rule set applies and as it implies is challenging.

Neptunia x Senran Kagura: Ninja Wars | PS4 Review

It's WWIII, or as I like to call it, "Waifu War III"!!! With Neptunia and the busty gals of Senran Kagura pitted against each other in a clan rivalry. Each brought together in the Illusory Dimension where the theme is Ninjitsu and the world, Japanese. These Gamninjustri ninja clans are host to their own Daimyo led nations. As per usual. Including the Compa style clan featuring the usual 4 goddesses we've come to adore and the Senran Kagura Honeypa clan featuring the lively Asuka, Homura, Yumi and Miyabi. Nep-Nep, and her clan hailing from Heartland. Asuka, and the Senran Kagura gang from Marveland. Constantly on the brink of war with one another until a mysterious antagonist known as Yoh Gamer and Tetsuko of the Headshot clan shows up to try and monopolize the nations through subjugation, and takeover via a mechanized ninja army and joining yokai. In a super ninja war that is to decide the most powerful ninja clan. 

Godstrike | PS4 Review

Freedom Games, for whatever reason, decided to make their game all about the boss rush. A boss battle twin stick shooter with roguelite features, and a timed gimmick. That and a story about Gods, their heralds, the herald's masks, and precious time. 

In the world this game's story takes place in an all powerful being and creator of all things created masks known as heralds which where tasked with finding human vessels fit to govern the world, and bring to it peace and prosperity through their control. As with most things the pathway to death and destruction is paved with good intentions though. Both the heralds, and their chosen vessels became greedy with power as the powerful often do. One such herald assimilated other heralds, and in doing so became the biggest threat to face the people of Eonora. 

Sacrificing time, the remaining heralds joined together in an attempt to seal the greedy herald in a timeless prison. Only to have that attempt backfire upon them as they were drawn into battle over a mysterious plague that was destroying the land and it's peoples from underneath. Ultimately loosing from it's prison the once imprisoned herald, and destroying all but one tribe of people. A tribe in which a lone female villager set out to find a cure for the corruption they now faced. Finding along her journey, in the midst of ruins, the last unclaimed herald. In turn becoming one with the herald as the last herald, and remaining hope. The only herald left to stand between the wayward army of heralds, and their intended destruction of humanity.

Waifu Discovered 2: Medieval Fantasy | Nintendo Switch Review

One Hand Free Studios upped the ante, and pushed the envelope further with this follow-up entry to their lewd shmup game, "Waifu Uncovered". While some mechanics return, and the censorship gimmick is back to double down this latest experience is definitely an upgrade in many ways. Visually, and mechanically. Returning pilot K. Vaio Jr., and his joining team of animal headed humanoid protagonists face a new threat, or rather face a threat that is threatening the youthful state of sexy waifu maidens. It seems some otherworldly creatures have cursed the clothes of these gals, and made it so that it ages them. Stepping in as your guide, and shopkeeper Bru-ha, a witch of sorts, helps you to break the curse by once again shrinking your ship, and sending you forth with upgrades to shed some cursed attire. It is with Bru-ha's help you'll either succeed or fail as you venture forth into unclothed territory.

Gleylancer | PS4 Review

Originally published in 1992 for the Sega Mega Drive, and developed by Masaya Games "Gleylancer" makes a bold return to modern consoles. A revival done right with all the options one could hope for in an updated, and upgraded port. Along with all those options the game's story returns in original context focusing on a future space battle between a Navy fleet, and alien invaders much like a lot of the shumps released in the 90's did. As fate would have it the game's female protagonist Lucia Cabrock finds that her father was warped elsewhere, and that the Navy is unable to send out search and rescue. In desperation, and with the aid of a friend she steals and pilots a new prototype fighter. Heading out to find her father, and save him from the alien threat.

The Eternal Cylinder | PS4 Review

Narrated like a National Geographic wildlife special and one of Dr. Seuss's cartoons, ACETeam's "The Eternal Cylinder" captures perfectly the perpetuated cycle of humanity. Mirroring humanity's race against time to not only rediscover their history, and learn from it, but to also secure their future. Making sure the survival of their species is guaranteed. It's a human-like tale of sorts reflected through a more alien point of view. It is in this alien world, and through it's alien inhabitants that we discover a world destroying Eternal Cylinder, and a lesser species known as the Trebhum. The Trebhum, as low on the scale of evolution as they may seem, are efficient shapeshifters that utilize ingredients found in the world around them to fast track the evolution process while they gather as much ancestral knowledge as possible. Simultaneously trying to escape an ill fated extinction, and the steamrolling monstrosity that pursues them throughout their home planet aiming to end their lineage.

Gearshifters | PS4 Review

The year is 2063. You are a hired driver, courier, and hitman for a ragtag group of mechanically inclined individuals. Think of it as "The Fast and the Furious", but in a future where vehicular combat is the norm, and factions have taken over territories. Some factions of which are enemies while others simply ask for your delivery services for goods that aren't so easily obtainable. Mechanically, it's a shmup-like roguelike ordeal in which currency means upgrades, and success is dependent on skills. An experience that borders on being a racing simulator, and horizontal side-scrolling shoot 'em up. All at the same time.

Xuan Yuan Sword 7 | PS4 Review

In all honesty I've always thought of EastAsiaSoft as a budget indie publisher. Not that they publish lesser quality indies, but that they catered solely to that budget indie market. After having played 'Xuan Yuan Sword 7' though that assumption changed. How they landed such an RPG is beyond me. This game could very well take the publisher to new heights in the gaming industry. I don't say that lightly either. What 'Xuan Yuan Sword 7' brings to the table is reflective of a Triple A presentation. The characters, the storytelling, the gameplay, and mechanics all come together in such a fashion as make the experience wholly polished. I could sing it's praises for days on end even though it is not without a slight hiccup or two. It's nice to see a Chinese game that keeps the dynasty, and mythological side of the culture intact, and combine it with a unique combat system based upon martial arts. The blend of real world references, and fantasy is so seamlessly joined together it truly is a sight to behold. Add in the amazing soundtrack, and it will most definitely give Japanese and Western RPGs a run for their money.

Mary Skelter Finale | PS4 Review

The Mary Skelter series, by Idea Factory International, is a dark fantasy series that places fairytale characters into a hellish living prison known as Jail. A place that consumes everything in it's path, and will not allow it's prisoners to escape their torment. Subjecting them to torture night, and day at the hands of monstrous beasts ... 

In the first game in the series we got to know of mainstay characters and prisoners Jack and Alice as we followed their attempted escape from said Jail. Jack and Alice having been couple of childhood friends that were abducted by the resident monsters known as Marchens, and taken to the Jail in which they were made to do unspeakable things. It is there they were ultimately rescued by the likes of Red Riding Hood, and were told of Alice's unusual powers. It seems Alice was a Blood Maiden, a person who draws powers from the blood of Marchens, and is borne of Marchen descent. While Alice, and other Blood Maidens like her are capable of fighting back against the Jail's minions with those powers they cannot push it too far past their strengthened Massacre Mode, a heightened state of sorts brought on by the blood splatters of Marchens, or they'll go into a transformative Skelter frenzy where they lose their reasoning to madness. Attacking friends as well as foes. 

This is where Jack's role is first made known. It seems that Jack's blood is not your ordinary blood type. It can actually bring a Blood Maiden who has gone into a Skelter transformation back from that awakened state into their normal selves, and through the use of a Mary Gun he does just that. With Alice, Red Riding Hood, Jack, and Red's Dawn Liberation group in tow the lot set out to tackle the enemies at hand and free themselves from the Jail using the knowledge of their powers. Or so they thought ...

G-Darius HD | PS4 Review

*REVISED*

ININ Games continues their porting of the Darius series with an arcade port of G-Darius. The fourth entry in TAITO's Darius shmup series which hails from 1997. It comes complete with what appears to be a direct from arcade rip of the original game. Still inclusive of the "Only Playable In Japan" warning ahead of the starting intro. Something you often times see with MAME-like emulation. Aside from that the game gets a visual upscaling in it's HD version with a more polygon focused 3D Silverhawk ship, and more vibrant visuals. That, and an original lesser quality version for comparison or preference sake. When it comes to versions both versions of the game, which are included in this package deal, hold up graphically. At least somewhat. Comparable to one another in most aspects. Outside of the game's art borders, screen size options, filters, and gameplay cheats there's not much else that's changed though. The saddest thing of all is that the game, particularly in the original version, suffers from heavy framerate issues that further points to possible console translation issues. 

Crisis Wing | PS4 Review

Crisis Wing is your standard shoot 'em up affair. It's SSDD. Same Shmup Different Design. While it looks noticeably different from anything before it, it's visual design does little to help the game in the area of gameplay. The ship's movement, which is a crucial part in any bullet hell shooter, is so loose that it makes for an unfairly challenging experience, and I do believe that artificial difficulty is what the developer was banking on in the area of challenge. When it comes to modes of play the SSDD side of things still applies. Nothing to write home about, but it does include a sort of unique take on time attack mode. Visual tweaks are also made available in the form of sharp, or CRT filters. Even the border colors, and screen orientation can be changed. 

Weapon of Choice DX | PS4 Review

Weapon of choice was originally an XBLIG (Xbox Live Indie Game) release on the Xbox 360. It was created by a developer known as Mommy's Best Games. The same developer that rereleased their shmup 'Shoot 1up' on the PS4 not too long ago. Like most of the developer's creations this game also features a unique art style all it's own. Mostly hand drawn, and articulated creature and character creations put into a wacky, and wonderfully weird world of unusual patchworked design. 

In the world of Weapon of Choice DX, as it were, we find unusually equipped soldiers tied to an U.N.P. governmental organization that is fighting the annihilation of the human species. The year is 2188, and an alien race known as the Chuul has begun eradication measures against humankind. Torn between the leadership of a U.N.P. general, and a mysterious alien contact the soldiers under your control must make it through the branching paths as they try to stay alive, and save those that have fallen. 

Lamentum | PS4 Review

Neon Doctrine's Lamentum is a pixel perfect blend of psychologically driven Lovecraftian horror, and traditional survival horror. In the vein of 90's era horror games. It features an inventory, and item system Resident Evil fans will be quite familiar with. Complete with limited space for item carry, and puzzle solving elements tied to the protagonist, and his plight. With the puzzling nature of the harrowing adventure the journey at hand is one that isn't easily foreshadowed, or predictable. 

Speaking of which this somber, and haunting tale of one's willingness to do anything to keep their beloved alive comes to life in the most visceral manners possible. An emotional rollercoaster ride of fear, dread, and a love that keeps a person going. It drives the player to keep pushing their way through despite whatever obstacles lie in wait. There is an air of delusion, and fragmented memories leading the player to want to uncover the truth that obviously lies beyond the madness. It's a visually puzzling setting with an ambient atmosphere that draws one in, but at the same time keeps them on the edge of their seats in anticipation of the horrors that haunt Grau Hill. A place visited not out of whim but in desperation by Victor, the protagonist, who seeks in said desperation the physical salvation of his dying betrothed, Alissa.

Mayhem Brawler | PS4 Review

Brawlers, or beat 'em ups are a genre best suited for the arcade scene or couch co-op with friends. Some of the best brawlers in said genre hailed from the 90's era of gaming, and brought with them familiar characters from the comic book, fighting game, or roleplaying scene. Some even featured their own lore, and mythology. In that regard "Mayhem Brawler" fits perfectly into the current resurfacing of these brawlers, but progressively so. 

Featuring a comic book inspired look, and a trio of super-powered meta-humans we find a world that takes inspiration from our own. Almost to the point of parody. With characters, and baddies that are a hot take on social ideals, and identities. Things like body positivity, female empowerment, and diversity. At the helm we have a dude named Trouble who has some nasty claws. We also have a meta-human named Dolphin which looks like a mutant dolphin hybrid. A brute of a beast. Lastly there's Star who is a blonde haired femme fatale that has telekinetic powers. The trio act as the heroes against an evil empire that is running experiments on meta-humankind. When it  comes to setting their world looks like a 90's alternate reality with a sort of Miami Vice aesthetic, and in it the trio of heroes beats their way through mobs, and bosses while posting their antics to social media.

Rogue Explorer | PS4 Review

Eastasiasoft's "Rogue Explorer" is a stage by stage Metroidvania platformer with roguelite elements, and an easily accessible crafting system. In it you take on the role of a customizable explorer as they explore newly themed areas, and the depths therein to find the loot and coin needed to progress further on their journey. Perils come in the form of lesser enemies, and bosses that vary from stage to stage. The stage themes consist of about four to six rooms each with the exit to each room being a purple vortex hidden somewhere in the mix of the maze that each stage is. An exit which an onscreen pointer points you towards from your spawning point. 

As you make your way through each maze-like interior you'll find chests to loot, and item drops or coins from downed enemies that stand in your way. The item bags provide materials as well as the occasional equipment piece for your explorer. These stages are made accessible via a menu system at a village hub area where three staple menu features are present. At the hub you can spend coin on permanent skill upgrades via the ability menu. Things like extra health, dodge ability boosts, and critical hit boosts among other things. Stacking them for use in follow-up playthroughs. You can also visit the guild menu where access to the named stages are there to choose from. Each initially accessible with only an explore option immediately available. A playthrough that requires full completion before the depth explore option is opened up for additional loot farming purposes.

Spelunker HD Deluxe | PS4 Review

Out of the box or borne from digital Tozai Games' "Spelunker HD Deluxe" is an utter failure of a classic arcade experience. Even though it offers four modes of play with solo or online/offline multiplayer options it fails to impress with it's carried over mechanics that hailed from a free-to-play version which was equally as horrible by design. There are no tutorials to instruct you on what it is your spelunker can do, nor details on the restrictions in cavern exploration that comes with simple approach. It is a broken, and frustrating experience not worth the asking price, and certainly not worth the aggravation. I sampled all modes, and even tried matchmaking with online players which were absent, and likely due to the same reasons I ditched the game for.

Apple Slash | PS4 Review

What's black, white, and red all over? Apple Slash! I know you thought I was going to say newspaper, but this little indie is actually all of those things too. With a black background, a white bordered maze, and red outlined monsters this 8bit minimalist action RPG comes to life in the most interesting of ways. Featuring an adventuring knight with a sword who finds himself facing an invasion of monsters Apple Slash makes itself at home on the PS4 console. Venturing out with a sword in hand at the behest of his brother the hero of this tale must slash his way through mobs of respawning blobs, and other attacking creatures as he solves puzzles, and gain abilities that will help him progress forth to the root of the problem or mystery, if you will.

Dariusburst Another Chronicle EX+ | PS4 Review

Mechanized maritime monstrosities. A bullet hell ballet against the Belsar. That, and four fight and flight filled mission centric modes with branching paths. That's what you get with ININ Games' HD port of this competitive arcade cabinet shmup known as, "Dariusburst Another Chronicle EX+". Alone or with three other friends you'll engage in space combat of the extreme kind dancing around bullets, and shooting baddies as you each pilot a Silver-Hawk Murakumo. A ship decked out with upgradable shots, missiles, and the series' newest gimmick, the burst beam. It's a high scoring competition where score matters, and making your name known on the global leaderboards is the end goal. 

Cotton Reboot! | PS4 Review

Cotton, Candy, and Colored Crystals. That's what this colorful cute 'em up is all about. That, and a fairy kingdom immersed in a plague of darkness brought on by evil forces. As fate would have it a selfish candy loving witch named Cotton finds an offer she cannot refuse. Silk, the fairy realm's representative, offers Cotton her realm's coveted Willow (candy) if she helps them bring back the light. This entails collecting seven pieces of Willow from seven otherworldly bosses. Thus Cotton, and Silk set off on their high flying adventure for two different reasons ...

Batbarian: Testament of the Primordials | PS4 Review

Sounds like the name of a Saturday morning cartoon, doesn't it? This quirky fourth wall breaking Metroidvania is more than just some odd idea thrown at a wall hoping it will stick though. It's actually a very well designed, and coherent plot inclusive action adventure that could give other games in the genre a proper run for their money. Not only is it built well, and fun to play, but it also harbors an indie appearance that heightens the already quality presentation. Through pixels, and well animated sprites Batbarian comes to life in such a way as to inspire invested gamers to keep on playing. There's plenty of challenging puzzles to overcome as well as you find out the who, where, when, and why of your given dilemma ...

Within The Blade | PS4 Review

Stealthy, stylish, and stumbling is Ratalaika's newly published ninja platformer, "Within The Blade". This pixelated indie with a simplistic narrative about a lone ninja in training overcoming an all powerful evil ruler is one with multiple features that builds upon it's base bloody combat, and tricky platforming gimmicks. Offering up a skill tree, and crafting vendor to compliment it's core mechanics it enhances what would otherwise be a basic experience. In a back and forth fashion you, the gamer, will be controlling the trained ninja protagonist Hideaki as he clears areas of enemy foot soldiers, and returns to his village to spend collected coin and use found or bought ingredients on item or weapon recipes. Additionally applying earned skill points on unlockable combat skills, crafting abilities, and improved stats or immunities. Perfection is the key to capitalizing on the game's reward system, and by ending a run in the most stealthy fashion while not taking hits you will earn a respectable rank as well as a title befitting of your efforts alongside the perks.

The Procession To Calvary | PS4 Review

Blasphemy! BlaSpHeMy!! BLASPHEMY!!! Now that I have that out of the way ... What is "The Procession To Calvary" other than sacrilegious blasphemy? Well, it's a point and click adventure of Monty Python-esque proportions. A rudely applied renaissance-like take on the period of religious turmoil as seen during the Holy Wars, and the time of Christ. A darkly comedic journey through a conjoined collage of well crafted stages and settings comprised of paintings with portraits of people animated within as a part of some twisted theatrical paper thin puppet play. A deeply disturbing satire with a reflection on human history, and humanity itself through the most negative of perspectives. All while playing out to the tune of classical music, and opera from famous composers. 

Despotism 3K | PS4 Review

There are games that preach superficial messages at you, and then there are games like Despotism 3K which showcases the cold hard truth about this life of ours. As the title suggests this game is all about Despotism, or tyrannical rule via authoritarianism. In this instance though we don't have real world leaders herding, and slaughtering humans like cattle, but instead an AI overlord who is hellbent on turning humanity into it's own personal army. To do this the AI has to maintain resources. Those resources being humans, and the product of human labor. This requires breeding them, keeping them feed, having them run a hamster wheel for energy, and sacrificing them to the energy reactor when in a pinch. 

This daily cycle of breeding, herding and slaughtering is done by upgradable mechanical devices controlled by the AI, and each day that passes the demands for the upgrades and resources that the humans provide grow. Mostly due to the growing population of humans that are being controlled, and maintained by the AI overlord. Like the real world though things that normally wouldn't effect the tyrannical leader or AI directly do undermine it's rule and effect it's human livestock. Ultimately making on the spot choices crucial to the survival of those it depends upon. Things like existential crisis, seasonal weather events, and even spatial anomalies will test your mettle, and decision making skills as a cold as steel dictator.

Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny | Nintendo Switch Review

They say if it's not broken then there's no need to fix it. I think this applies to NISA's latest entry in the Disgaea series. While 'Disgaea 6' does feature a new cast of leading characters, a new story, and some new features it remains mostly the same in the way of mechanics. With the exception of one mechanic gimmick that ties into the main character's design. The 'Super Resurrection' ...

Entering the scene as the game's protag we find a persistent low tier zombie named Zed who is hellbent on defeating the most powerful God of Destruction ever to plague the worlds. Alongside his putrid pug pal Cerberus, and a rag tag group of recruits he aims to do just that. Being the zombie that he is death is not an issue. With his special ability known as 'Super Reincarnation' dying only makes him stronger in that regard. The catch being that with each death he's transported to a new world where his gained stats and mana are reset, but his remaining strengths enhanced. It is through this rinse, and repeat cycle of battles, and losses that he goes forth with a heartfelt mission in mind ...

Guilty Gear -Strive- | PS4 Review

Guilty Gear returns in a big way with revamped mechanics, a robust behind-the-scenes backstory, a new story going forward, and new characters as well as an already established collection of known fighters. New to the series is a re-established offline gaming experience, and an indie inspired online lobby experience with a complete visual and functional overhaul. Upgraded, updated, and made to be played in an ease-of-access kind of way by all who give it a try this latest series offering is not one to wag your finger at. Despite it coming in three different bundles at day one with bonus content, and at increasingly higher prices it's the base game that you'll want to keep in mind as I give you the lowdown on it's features. The rest of the package deal is mainly for those looking to splurge on the usual DLC that comes with this particular franchise, but at a discounted price point.

Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown | PS4 Review

SEGA's flagship fighter returns to the fray updated, and upgraded in a new graphics engine for fighting game fans and newcomers alike. Boldly, and bravely it brings back it's unique cast of 19 fight style inclusive characters, adds in a whole host of new features, and does so at a decent full packaged price. Downloadable content included. While it does visually improve the overall looks of the game, and add modes as well as various tools for learning it falters where it should prevail though. The training mode which now has everything from the basics of 3D fighting to the detailed combo training for every character alongside a proper free training mode it hinders progress by not directing the player to do what they need to do to win in the most straightforward fashion. That along with netcode, and matchmaking instability it causes the game to not shine as brightly as I think most returning fans or newcomers would hope. It is, unfortunately, a fighter fit mostly for couch co-op competition, and limited online play via the game's new room system ...

Hentai vs Evil | PS4 Review

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Wonder Boy: Asha In Monster World | PS4 (2.0)

ININ Games/STUDIOARTDINK, the publishers behind this and other retro remakes, usually do very well with their cutesy takes on said games. I particularly enjoyed their new addition to the Bubble Bobble series though the formula was completely different from previous entries. Going into this review I expected something different yet something that adhered to series tradition. For the most part that's what I experienced. In this rendition of Monster World IV, Asha once again hails as the game's protagonist and resident heroine. Done up in a newly animated and cell shaded fashion alongside every detail of her world she goes forth into the fray not only as a rite if passage, but to conquer the evil that is unleashing monsters upon unsuspecting villagers. Sword, and shield in hand she sets forth on her adventure collecting the tools, and knowledge she needs to best the beasties that lie ahead.

R-Type Final 2 | PS4 Review (ver 2.0)

NISA's kickstarted entry into the R-Type universe is a bold, beautiful, and brutal experience. Heightened by gorgeous graphics, a symphonic soundtrack, and decent customization options it gives the gamer, and backers their money's worth and then some. Offering little introduction beyond the cliche human fight for survival against an invasive alien menace R-Type Final 2 rockets the player right into the midst of an intergalactic war filled with organic, and metallic monstrosities known as Bydo. Piloting a special trans-dimensional ship with signature support features, and weapons the player must meet the aliens on their outer space battlefields in a several stage encounter that will not only test the most skilled among them, but do so in a one and done fashion. Meaning that death comes swiftly, and a single bullet or hazard can end a clean run, easily. 

Rising Hell | PS4 Review

Lucifer. We all know the story of his fall. How he fought against Heaven's army, and fell alongside his fellow angels who had similar aspirations. Well, enter "Rising Hell". A new take on that biblical account. One where Lucifer is trapped inside a tower of a tree's root for punishment sake awaiting rescue from the fallen who are also imprisoned with him. In this telling of the age old tale you take on the role of Arok, a sinner, and two other hell bound characters with imbued powers. Guiding them to the top of the root prison from the bottom up as you face off against the gatekeeper Mephisto's minions, and the bosses that lie in wait. All for a chance at escape. Amassing power per collected souls as you ascend making you more prepared for the increasingly difficult challenges ahead. 

NonGunz: Doppleganger Edition | PS4 Review

Cryptic, and challenging is the Digerati published NonGunz: Doppleganger Edition. This indie with an underlying message, and vaguely explained mechanics drops the player head first into a world of skeletons, living body parts, and guns. The objective to it all being for the player to best four bosses, gather their numbers, and unlock a case from an outside of the game secondary perspective using those said numbers. Effectively making for a game within a game type of experience with roguelike elements at play. The grind is heavy, and the foes formidable. Even more daunting, and haunting is what lies in wait at the end of it all should you make it to the end credits.

Battle Axe | PS4 Review

Bitmap Bureau's "Battle Axe" is a proper tribute to the bygone era of arcade co-op games. Almost to a fault. Harboring a small host of fantasy heroes and heroines along with a quest to rid their world of an oppressive evil presence Battle Axe does good to bring to the player a fun time in the form of a formidable adventure. As a Dark Elf, a Marauder, or a Druid you must use your attacks in hack 'n slash fashion to deal with spawning lesser enemies, and end stage bosses. All while rescuing dudes, and damsels in distress. Equipped with a unique to character melee attack, projectile, and ability each hero or heroine deals damage while taking damage if not careful. Like the arcade cabinet experiences of yesteryear death comes quick, and often times alongside that dreaded GAME OVER screen if one doesn't mind the onscreen chaos. Should you reach a top score, or beat the game though all is not lost. There's plenty of trophies to unlock, and a couple of modes on two different difficulty settings to play through. Good for quick pick up, and put down sessions in single or two player mode.

Legend of Keepers | Nintendo Switch Review

Coming at you as one of the finer dungeon management roguelikes is a game titled, "Legend of Keepers". This fully voiced, and expertly crafted pixel perfect indie game sees you managing a dungeon's keep as the staffer of the illustrious Dungeon Corporation. A company that provides challenges for heroes while defending the treasures of it's monstrous employers. At your disposal are traps, troops, and a beefy dungeon master. Through preparations, execution, and many week's worth of resource micromanagement you are tasked with facing every heroic effort put up against you, and the company. The more you succeed in the endeavor the bigger the payout at the end of it all. 

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War | Season 3 Battle Pass

When Cold War first launched there was no denying that there was a sub par assortment of battle pass incentives that were made available. The themes, the skins, and the cosmetics left a lot to be desired. As time passed, and the second season went underway we got a glimpse of what could be, though. Reactive camo blueprints were introduced along with better emblems, keychains, and banners. Even the freeloaders got things worth grinding for. In season three this was all ramped up even further in the quality department. Not only were we getting two new weapons, but a collection of bits and baubles that were more worth the money than ever before. While there is no coherent theme to any of it the mixed bag of items definitely has some standout things worth grinding for. The new Roman Imperial gun skins, the Alien auto rifle, and the UFO keychain are but a handful of items that you'll find if you are willing to put down the cash for it this latest season. That, and the new master craft weapons really give you what you paid for.

ScourgeBringer | PS4 Review

ScourgeBringer is a delightful little post-apocalyptic roguelike indie. It tells the story of a tribe of people plagued by the judgment of technologically advanced invaders called the ScourgeBringer. These ships which range from obelisks to pyramids (sound familiar???) in shape house portals to another dimension which the tribe enter in search of answers as to why they are being targeted. Most of the tribe who have entered have never returned. Thus they send in their greatest warrior, Khyra and her bot companion Peppy, in a last ditch effort to see if they can find out what is going on. 

ININ's 'Star Renegades' Limited Collector's Edition Is Up For Order!!!

Got news from the ININ PR that a limited run collector's edition of the previously released Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 indie, Star Renegades', is up for order. Seems the Nintendo Switch version is limited to 2,500 copies, and the the PS4 version 1,500 copies. Each numbered, and inclusive of the collector's edition contents. Among said contents is a collector's box with a magnet latch, the original soundtrack, an artbook, diorama, stickers, and a reversible cover as well as 7 character cards. That and the game. 

Devil Slayer - Raksasi | PS4 Review

Devil Slayer Raksasi is one of those surprise hits console players will have likely never seen coming. I personally never heard of it until my go to sources mentioned it was releasing this week. It was previously released on Steam, but has now been ported to both the Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 4 consoles. What the game is, is a blend of Dark Souls style combat, The Binding of Isaac dungeon crawling, and Asian mythology with lore that unfolds in a similar fashion as to Soulsborne titles. It sees you taking on the role of several different characters that are continuously reincarnated to take on the Keybearer. Each character wields their own unique weapon making them more akin to classes, and also has a unique back story that ties in with their place in the historical timeline presented in the tale. 

Liberated Enhanced Edition | NS Review

Not many game developers dare tread on the touchy topic of a dystopian future these days, especially through a game that paints current real world trends as harmful to society. With "Liberated", and this enhanced version of it we are introduced to a secretive organization of rebels known as the "Liberated" who are trying to undo the damage one of their own has done through the creation of a social credit system. Through comic books, animated comic book panels, and 2.5D platforming focused gameplay elements you take on the role of key characters as they try to infiltrate, and take down the all oppressive system of governance. Ultimately utilizing stealth, murder, and hacking skills as a means to get what needs to be done, done. As you read through the plot, listen to the newly added voice-overs, and play through branching paths with multiple choice options you will discover the fate of the Orwellian inspired government, and the Liberated rebels. 

Propaganda Through Gaming | An Industry & Political Takeover

I know this is old news, but ongoing. I also realize it's somewhat of a taboo subject, so I'll tread as carefully as I can. I have followed closely the growing influence of Chinese money on various industries including the gaming industry. I know of China's step by step plan to financially control the world by buying up shares, and influencing business as well as politics through those held shares. What I personally have witnessed outside of all this hearsay are a couple of concerning practices taking hold in the Western side of things in parts of the industry marketplace where once said censorship, and identity politics weren't as prevalent before. This censorship, and ideological influence is concerning in that the ramifications go well beyond gaming itself. As more, and more studios accept the share bail out money censorship, and certain divisive identity politics are allowed to fester and grow into a form of worldwide propaganda. This does much more than surface level damage in that it takes away freedom of expression, and a customers' freedom to spend their money freely on something that isn't policed in such a ridiculous manner or spoiled as a result of influence from biased outside sources. 

Outriders | Somewhat (REDACTED)

Though I still have some issues with Outriders including the fact that it is only online accessible, and suffers from crashes and bugs It's not entirely bad. I'm still playing through it, and the game seems to be smoothing out more and more as I do. Probably due to hot fixes going on behind the scenes. Having recently gotten to the point where I can use my DLC gear and weapons the gameplay itself has started to be fun. The mods, and perks make my character seem like the badass they are portrayed as throughout the story. Trying out new combinations of gear, and weapons alongside the skills is also fun. In particular the boss fights are amazing experiences to behold while the lesser mobs serve as appetizers as I wait for that next big encounter. I actually solo'd the first boss, and it felt good. 

Outriders | The Cold Hard Truth As Told By Brad

Never have I ever in my history of gaming paid for a game that had such a horrible launch state, and horribly applied mechanics than Outriders. Forget what the big time journos said. This game is hot garbage. It is not worth one red cent. Let me explain ...

Sturmfront - The Mutant War: Ubel Edition | PS4 Review

Sturmfront comes at us guns blazing in an alternate 1984 timeline where human's tampering has caused a mutant apocalypse. From the ashes, and ruins rises a mutant army hellbent on eradicating the remainder of the human species. As the lone hero, a cybernetic unit of a man named Siegfried von Hammerstein, you must gun and burn your way through waves of mutant scum with extreme prejudice. Using both a gun, and a flamethrower to dispatch anything moving back from whence it came.

Bite the Bullet | PS4 Review

Bite the Bullet has been out for quite some time now. In fact I vaguely recall requesting the game for review near the initial launch some months back. For some odd reason the PR contacted me after the release though with an embargo for the 19th of March 2021. Well after the former debut. I was puzzled at first, but as I played I realized that there seems to be some adjustments made to mechanics, and controls. Quality of life features that were obviously implemented to make the game more enjoyable than it was. The metroidvania mechanics, in particular, seem to function better than in the gameplay videos I previewed. There was also a quick select button (R1) added for weapon swapping instead of the R3 dial menu that made things a little more complicated than they should be. Having spent some time with the game, and grinding through it's missions I think it's safe to say this upgraded, or revamped version is definitely worth a try.

Explosionade DX | PS4 Review

Mommy's Best Games is an indie studio of unique pedigree. They bring to the player experiences unlike those most have ever played, or seen. Though the genres might be familiar the mechanics concepts they offer are anything but that. In the case of "Explosionade DX" I was personally surprised with what I found, once again. Not only was it totally unexpected, but surprisingly fun as well. Following a story about a naughty cadet, and his commanding officer we find a sci-fi world filled with horrific abominations known as Horronym, and a military at war with said creatures. Somewhere in the fray Atticus, the cadet and protagonist, decides to further disobey orders during a latrine focused punishment. Hopping into a prototype mech, and heading down the old crap chute (sewers) to give it a test drive. Upon entering the sewers Atticus finds lying in wait floor upon floor of Horronym. In a back and forth conversation that takes place during this ever descending adventure Atticus, and the Sarge bicker over the situation with the man in charge getting increasingly aggravated by the cadet's misbehavior, and recklessness. Thus is the story in a nutshell.

Doodle Devil 3volution | PS4 Review

Taking on the evil side of creationism, and placing you in the role of the Devil's advocate JoyBit's, 'Doodle Devil 3volution' aims to have you recreating all the world's evils through the evolution of grouped elements. You'll find yourself pairing elements such as the forbidden fruit from Eden, humans, the seven deadly sins, knowledge, and so much more as you bring to fruition the flipside of faithfulness. You'll delve into darkness with three modes of play including the traditional main mode, a demon battle mode, and a slot machine fitting of the devilry at hand. Along the way the devil, and his snarky attitude will chime in with snide remarks as you make mistakes. Dropping onscreen quotes from famous people, and even celebrities when you make a proper match. Obviously quotes tied to the groupings, and their sinful subject matter. It's a fun little experiment in evil doings, and will test your knowledge of said evil things.

Bishoujo Battle Cyber Panic! | PS4 Review

Eastasiasoft, and their league of developers have done good in bringing to the West some formerly Japanese only gaming experiences. Whether it be more risque shoot 'em ups or the line clearing games like this particular game offers they've done good to let us in on something different. With 'Bishoujo Battle Cyber Panic!', in particular, we are privileged as a gamer to be able to not only unlock some impressive Bishoujo style anime art through gameplay, but also compete for top score on the game's online leaderboards. While the scoring, and goal are simple the execution is anything but that. You see, with games like this clearing sections of a picture is risky business. With enemies moving, and bouncing around the playing field ready to end your line to edge connections the task at had is made increasingly more difficult. Tack on the games base difficulty as well as additional difficulties per section of gallery art, and you have yourself quite the challenge. Luckily for you there are a handful of items or power-ups with which to ease the process. Just know that scoring is an ordeal that requires strategy, and multitasking. You have to mind the timer, your lives, the enemies, the spawning items, and complete a certain percentage of the artwork before you can unlock the prized art within.

Void Gore | PS4 Review

Void Gore should be a prime example of what not to do when designing a competitive shmup. Hear me out. The game itself relies too heavily on a currency focused upgrade system, and rogue-lite features. It makes you grind for an hour or two just to get to a point where your ship is competitively viable, but at the same time injecting random enemy elements that are usually stacked against you in their many forms. The experience is wholly inconsistent in many areas in regards to said randomness including that of damage output, bullet hell patterns, and enemy spawns. It also suffers from what I like to call a serious case of Satan's sucker punch. Meaning that a lot of your game overs will be due to things out of your control. Being blindsided by floating organs, chased down by chomping teeth, and singled out by sinister skulls is all too common. Speaking of which, the enemy variety leaves a lot to be desired. It shows laziness, and in it's lacking variety offers up no real boss battles at all outside of the one boss locked behind a currency paywall. The only upside I see is the easy to earn platinum trophy which is standard issue with this developer's games.

What Happened to the Community?

What happened to the community? The one I became a part of on social media? The one made up of friends who looked out for, and lifted up each other? The ones with similar interests? It feels more and more like I'm once again an outcast looking in. Wanting to fit in, but unable to, because everyone else is looking to fit in without realizing they are passing up the very opportunity to connect with others who also want to fit in. We tread blindly on the internet, and social media longing to be noticed as everyone does, but not stopping to realize that if we noticed others they too would notice us. Together we could live in the spotlight of our niche groups. Being a part of it, but unique and outstanding. In an age of flaunted copycat ideals, and trendy cultural ideas though the fight to stand out in the crowd is made almost impossible, and it is in that struggle that no one gets the recognition they deserve.

Neptunia Virtual Stars | PS4 Review

The master storytellers at Idea Factory do it again. Through their four staple Gameindustri Goddesses, and a couple of new characters they weave an intriguing, and thought provoking tale about the social goings on of the real world gaming community. This time around the focus is on the Vtuber sensation, and the clashing toxicity of online audiences. How hate, and malice can ruin experiences for both the hosts of content, the platform they broadcast content on, and those who enjoy the provided content. Starting off as most Neptunia games do the tale in question begins abruptly with a crisis in the making.

Virtual Stars, the standalone game that it is, introduces said crisis through two at odds Goddesses know as Faeria, and Kado. Faeria happens to be the goddess of Planet Emote within the Virtualand universe. Kado, on the other hand, is the evil antagonist from Obsolentia who is the cause of Emote's plight. Invading Emote, and erasing the content there is Kado's end goal, and through the help of her tag along partner HERO she initiates the invasion using her army of Antis. Summoned against their will Neptune, Blanc, Noire, and Vert along with the Vtubers MEWTRAL (Me & You) are tasked with saving Emote, and Virtualand from it's undoing by impressing the citizenry with their V-Idol talent, and weapon based skills. In a performance that is both musically inclined, and broadcasted for emotional energy. The very life source of planet Emote.

Castle Kong | Nintendo Switch Tournament And Cash Prizes!!!

Fans of Donkey Kong, and high scoring competition REJOICE!!! Drowning Monkey Games has created an homage to the classic Nintendo title 'Donkey Kong', added in their own twists, and will be hosting a cash prize inclusive tournament of said game for those of you skilled enough to earn the top scores. This game will be releasing on February 25th at which point the tournament will begin. Rules applied. You will find a link to the rules, and details later on in this article. 

Granblue Fantasy Versus | Season 2 Character DLC: Anre

Thanks to Granblue Fantasy Versus' PR I got a chance to spend some time with the latest season 2 DLC character, Anre. When I first saw his trailer he reminded me of characters like Yoda, or Master Roshi from DBZ. He had that peculiar size about him, and the look of an elder. Even his soft spoken voice carried with it an air of wisdom or experience. His signature weapon which is a jeweled spear also has an enigmatic look about it as if it belongs to a wizard of rank, and stature. When it comes to weapon of choice Anre deals damage in magic with his floating spear, and applies said magic to it for added effect. This allows him several ways of bridging the gap between him, and his opponent. He can even play a strong zoning game if need be. Compared to the other characters in the current roster Anre comes off as being somewhat more technical though. A mixture of magic use, and zoning tied to a simultaneous pressing of multiple buttons per skill.

Y's IX: Monstrum Nox | PS4 Review

Going into this review I had high expectations. From the trailers the game looked really good. It looked like a modern release with action packed combat, and a newer visual style for the series. It looked promising. Getting into the actual game though I found what best could be described as a port of an older release. Possibly a PS2 or PS3 era Y's adventure. While this assumption of mine has nothing to back it up it honestly looks, and plays like an older port with a fresh can of paint slapped on it. Throw in the constant barrage of loading screens, and it's about as bad as the nightmare Adol Christin finds himself in within Monstrum Nox ...

Turrican Flashback Collection | PS4 Review

Game collections. You've seen them. I've seen them. Anyone who is into gaming has likely seen them. For the most part they all follow a cookie cutter design when it comes to features, and in the "Turrican Flashback Collection" said design adheres closely to that tradition. Offering up four games from the European series that spans years, and a handful of console/PC generations we find a tale about a hero in a suit of space armor that returns time, and time again to fight "The Machine". An AI being gone rogue which is hellbent on destroying planets, and enslaving civilizations. Along with this tyrannical tale comes features fitting of a retro recollection. Included are screen filters, wallpapers, historical gaming facts, two modes of play per game, and even cheats that can be activated before a playthrough. It's a competent archive of gaming history that one can enjoy casually or for the trophies.

Project Starship X | PS4 Review

Panda Indie Studios is a developer known mostly for their indie shmups. It is in this specific genre that they consistently evolve and innovate with their characters, and universe. They take Lovecraftian horror, blend it with science fiction, and set you out into the stars to combat the greatest of all evils. That evil being Cthulhu himself. Being the direct sequel that it is 'Project Starship X' continues this lore building, and builds upon it's legacy design by porting over familiar themes, and characters. All while improving upon the graphic design, and adding in new gameplay content. Returning is the rogue-lite formula for replay value sake, and four different pilots each with their own unique shooting mechanics. This, and the handful of unlockable modes will further add to the overall experience. Combat, as it were, is familiar yet tweaked in such a way as to differentiate it from the first game in the series. 

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night | Classic Mode Review

Igarashi was not misleading you with the title of his new Bloodstained classic mode. The new addition to the base Bloodstained experience is most definitely inspired by earlier Castlevania releases. Namely the original Castlevania. It features Miriam as the protagonist, has her wielding a familiar whip weapon, and collecting assist weapons that use the game's stained glass flower petals as usage currency. You'll also find the score based gameplay returns, and that you can collect point based items to increase that score along your journey. Unlike the core game though classic mode has you pushing your way through several level settings of familiar Castlevania inspiration while dealing with bosses, and lesser enemy types that replace and simultaneously mimic their Castlevania counterparts. 

Terrified | DVD Review

I'm a fan of horror. Been one most of my life. I've watched about every sub-genre of horror that there is. From the supernatural to the slasher flicks, and everything between I've seen it all. In the past 10 years or so, in the midst of my routine horror viewings, I've noticed that the horror genre has not only been revived, and rescued from Hollywood has beens, but has also been saved many times over by indie directors and studios from all over the globe. One such studio which recently started putting out films in physical and digital formats regularly is RLJE Films. In conjunction with streaming services like Shudder RLJE has released quite the interesting library of modern takes on the usual frightful formulas. One of the most recent releases that is "Terrified" is one such take on time honored tradition. It blends the paranormal with the otherworldly, and adds a few twists along the way in it's fractured timeline of events.

Sense: A Cyberpunk Ghost Story | Nintendo Switch Review

Top Hat Studios' indie game "Sense: A Cyberpunk Ghost Story" was subject to some misplaced scrutiny at least a week before the scheduled launch. The SJW portion of the gaming community decided to not only spread disinformation regarding the game, and it's contents, but also to threatened the developers if they did not censor it. Having played enough of the game to see what it's about I found that there's nothing remotely offensive, sexually or otherwise, within the game. While there are some suggestive themes, and some sexual imagery/innuendos it's nothing worth censoring, or fretting over. The game itself is a far cry from the pornographic experience it is claimed to be. It is instead a horror sleuthing, and survival game centered around an Asian character known as Mei who is a part of a dystopian cyberpunk world set in 2084 Hong Kong. 

Through Mei, and her enhanced eyes, we get to see the world in great detail as she goes about solving puzzles, and interacting with the various NPCs. We get a glimpse of the state of the world, it's politics, and how it operates on a civilian/governmental level. Additionally the game's story throws things for a loop with a sort of supernatural twist that happens after Mei honors the dead for a mystery man. Turning her world into a haunted nightmare where she encounters ghosts whose souls have yet to pass over. Through back and forth investigations within the spirit realm Mei must try to find her way back to her world while simultaneously dodging the dead, and freeing them from their trapped state. The horror that ensues due to the methodical, and slow burning nature of the artistically rendered narrative adventure is more suspenseful, and less of a jump scare in that the atmosphere set is one that is both melancholy, and foreboding. Filled with an air of expectation, and dread as you try to assist Mei in figuring out what it is she needs to do to remedy her situation.

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War | Onslaught Review

Zombies in Cold War seems to be the most lucrative experience of the entire game. It offers up XP in spades, and even has one of the game's only ways to earn special weapon blueprints. When it comes to the modes of play within Zombies there are a trio of different modes with their own separate variations. You've got your Die Maschine, Dead Ops Arcade 3, and Onslaught. I almost immediately took a liking to Die Maschine,and it's holiday spin-off, but after awhile I sought fun elsewhere in Zombies. That's where Onslaught comes into play. As of today I've spent a fair amount of time in Onslaught. Enough to give you the insider info you'll need to know if you dare to take it on. Unlike Die Maschine, and it's 4 player co-op setup, Onslaught is strictly a 1 - 2 player co-op experience that can be played publicly or privately. The goal is simply to follow an orb of Aether, and feed it the souls of the undead as you kill them wave after wave. The catch being that every few rounds elites are introduced, and the stakes in those encounters are raised as it is one of the ways you will be able to earn rewards.