irem Collection Volume 1 | PS5

Through the collective efforts of ININ Games, Tozai, and Ratalaika Games we get a glimpse back at late 80's and early 90's irem shmup history. With three irem published shoot 'em ups spanning across multiple platforms including that of arcade cabinets, the PC engine, PC Engine CD, NES, and Famicom. These shmups being the side-scrolling arcade exclusive 'X Multiply', and the more console friendly ports of top-down shmups 'Image Fight' and 'Image Fight II'. 

Each game, in their own way, coming at the player with decked out options galore. Returning from previous ININ and Ratalaika collections to this collaborative effort are the multiple graphics and control toggles. Complete with micro-manageable visual filters, mappable controls, difficulty settings, vibration options, and wallpapers. That and screen size selection. Additionally cheats return with an invincibility toggle across all three ports. That and DIP switch arcade only settings meant to offer oldschool mechanics, difficulties, and control alternatives. You even get a rewind feature for back stepping those fatal mistakes. With these challenging quarter munchers being the way they are it might very well be a welcome sight for completionists looking to earn all in-game trophies.

QUOTE: About Heroes

"Heroes. We all grew up admiring those outstanding individuals who were our heroes. Be it firefighters, doctors, teachers, soldiers, or even comic book superheroes. All those heroes did something good for the world in their own way, and made us want to be as good.

It made me think about the heroes of today, and what it means to be a hero in the modern world. The superficial traits or degenerate sexual preferences. Even known criminals are paraded around as heroes. Why do you think this is? It's by design and a part of socialism/communism/marxism. The collectivism therein. They don't want you aspiring to be a true hero of righteous moral values. They don't want anyone bold or brave enough to rise up against their corruption and tyranny. So they award people for basically being less than heroic. They want to inspire you to be as corrupt as they are, and in doing so perpetuate their rule through your adherence to their twisted social standards. Not for your benefit, but for theirs. For if there are no real heroes there is no hope for those seeking it." - Brad C. (OtakuDante)

Low Story | PS5 Review

Nothing makes you want to kick arse and take names like being drop kicked out of the top of a high rise apartment building by your creator. At least that's what sent this gun slinging Sackboy on a revenge rampage. After kissing the pavement and eating glass the stuffed protagonist grabs a conveniently placed gangster mask and a fedora then promptly heads out on a quest of vengeance sporting the new duds. 

For whom or what this revenge plot is directed is not made exactly clear. All that is clear is the walking platforming sim that follows is filled with combat situations where bullets are the only answer. Packing heat in three varieties our patchworked protagonist without a name deals death in spades. To demons, challenger samurai, and a giant one eyed cave dwelling anomaly. The scene transforming from a barely lit dystopian cityscape to an otherworldly dimension located just beyond a red door. Reminds me of a song ...

Smoots Pinball | PS4 Review

Smoots. What is a Smoot? This is a question I pondered while I tried to figure out my final verdict on this five table pinball package. All I know is that Smoots are basically tied to various sports style mobile games, and are miniature people-like representations of sports players. This is fitting in the case of this new pinball release as four out of the five tables are sports themed. Down to the pinball itself. You get a baseball, summer games, tennis, golf, and zombie table for one lowly price. Each with their own theme, balls, and special effects. Complete with extras in the form of unlockable 2D and 3D art assets. Is it all worth it though? That's the question that begs to be answered.