Recent reviews by SamH

Need for Speed: Unbound – Racing Off the Tracks and into Disappointment

Need for Speed: Unbound, the latest installment in the long-running racing franchise, fails to live up to the expectations set by its predecessors, stumbling out of the gate with a myriad of issues that hinder the overall experience. Developed by a different studio than previous titles, Unbound feels like a misstep rather than a leap forward for the series.

Lackluster Gameplay:
Unbound's gameplay feels uninspired and lackluster, lacking the adrenaline-pumping excitement that the Need for Speed series is known for. The racing mechanics feel clunky and unresponsive, with cars handling more like heavy tanks than nimble sports cars. The sense of speed is also sorely lacking, with races often devolving into tedious slogs rather than thrilling pursuits.

Poorly Executed Story:
In an attempt to inject some narrative depth into the game, Unbound introduces a story mode centered around a group of street racers trying to make a name for themselves in the underground racing scene. Unfortunately, the story falls flat, with bland characters, cliché plotlines, and cringe-worthy dialogue that feels more like a parody of street racing culture than a genuine attempt at storytelling.

Technical Issues Galore:
One of the most frustrating aspects of Unbound is its myriad of technical issues, ranging from frequent crashes and game-breaking bugs to poor optimization and performance issues. Players report experiencing stuttering frame rates, graphical glitches, and long loading times that disrupt the flow of gameplay and detract from the overall experience. It's clear that Unbound was rushed to release before it was ready, resulting in a buggy mess that's more frustrating than fun to play.

Lack of Innovation:
Perhaps the biggest disappointment with Unbound is its lack of innovation and creativity. Instead of pushing the boundaries of what a racing game can be, Unbound feels content to retread familiar ground, offering little in the way of new features or gameplay mechanics to set it apart from its predecessors. As a result, the game feels stale and outdated, failing to capture the excitement and innovation that made the Need for Speed series so beloved in the first place.

Conclusion:
Need for Speed: Unbound is a disappointing entry in the long-running racing franchise, stumbling out of the gate with lackluster gameplay, a poorly executed story, technical issues galore, and a distinct lack of innovation. While it may offer some fleeting moments of enjoyment for die-hard fans of the series, it ultimately fails to recapture the magic of its predecessors, leaving players feeling more frustrated than fulfilled.

Rating: 4/10 - Racing Off the Tracks and into Disappointment

Marvel's Spider-Man: A Spectacular Web-Slinging Adventure Through the Heart of New York City

Marvel's Spider-Man, developed by Insomniac Games, swings onto the PlayStation 4 with all the excitement, charm, and heart of everyone's favorite friendly neighborhood hero. Set against the iconic backdrop of New York City, this game puts players in the spandex suit of Peter Parker as he balances the responsibilities of being a superhero with the challenges of everyday life.

Swinging into Action:
From the moment players take control of Spider-Man, they're greeted with an exhilarating sense of freedom and fluidity as they swing through the skyscraper-strewn streets of Manhattan. Insomniac Games has crafted a web-slinging mechanic that feels intuitive, responsive, and endlessly satisfying, allowing players to effortlessly traverse the city with the grace and agility of the iconic superhero himself. Whether you're swinging from building to building, zipping through traffic, or performing death-defying acrobatics in mid-air, every moment as Spider-Man is a thrill ride that never gets old.

Combat that Packs a Punch:
But Spider-Man isn't just about swinging through the city – it's also about taking down bad guys with style and finesse. The game's combat system is fast-paced, fluid, and incredibly satisfying, allowing players to unleash a variety of acrobatic moves, web-based attacks, and gadgetry to take down foes with flair. Whether you're engaging in one-on-one brawls with street thugs, infiltrating enemy bases with stealthy takedowns, or facing off against iconic villains like Doctor Octopus and the Kingpin, the combat in Spider-Man is a dynamic and engaging experience that's sure to keep players on the edge of their seats.

A Story Worth Telling:
But perhaps the greatest strength of Marvel's Spider-Man lies in its heartfelt and engaging story, which sees Peter Parker juggling his dual identities as both a superhero and a struggling young adult. From his relationships with friends and family to his battles against larger-than-life threats, every aspect of Peter's life is explored with depth, nuance, and emotional resonance. And with a cast of well-rounded characters, memorable villains, and surprising twists and turns, the game's narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions that will keep players invested from beginning to end.

A City Alive with Detail:
Of course, no review of Marvel's Spider-Man would be complete without mentioning the game's stunning recreation of New York City. From the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers to the iconic landmarks and hidden secrets, every corner of Manhattan feels alive with detail, authenticity, and personality. Whether you're exploring Central Park, visiting Times Square, or taking in the view from the top of the Empire State Building, there's a sense of immersion and wonder that's truly remarkable.

Conclusion:
Marvel's Spider-Man is a spectacular web-slinging adventure that captures the essence of the iconic superhero in every swing, punch, and heartfelt moment. With its exhilarating gameplay, engaging story, and stunning open-world recreation of New York City, it's a game that's sure to delight fans of Spider-Man and newcomers alike. So grab your web shooters, don your mask, and get ready to swing through the streets of Manhattan – because with great power comes great responsibility, and Spider-Man is ready to answer the call.

Rating: 9.5/10 - A Spectacular Web-Slinging Adventure Through the Heart of New York City

Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales - Swinging Through Harlem with Heart and Heroism

Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, the thrilling follow-up to Insomniac Games' acclaimed Spider-Man franchise, delivers an electrifying adventure that's as heartwarming as it is action-packed. Set in the vibrant streets of Harlem, this game puts players in the shoes of Miles Morales, a young hero grappling with newfound powers, personal struggles, and the weight of responsibility that comes with being a superhero.

A New Hero Rises:
From the moment players step into Miles' shoes and take to the skies as the new Spider-Man, they're greeted with a sense of exhilaration and empowerment that's truly electrifying. With his unique blend of bio-electricity, camouflage abilities, and acrobatic prowess, Miles brings a fresh and dynamic gameplay experience to the Spider-Man universe. Whether players are swinging through the streets of New York, scaling skyscrapers with effortless grace, or unleashing electrifying attacks on their enemies, every moment as Miles Morales feels like a thrilling adventure in the making.

Heartfelt Storytelling and Emotional Depth:
But beyond the high-flying action and breathtaking set pieces, what truly sets Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales apart is its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth. As players navigate Miles' journey from ordinary teenager to extraordinary hero, they'll encounter a cast of richly drawn characters, powerful themes, and poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings. Whether it's Miles' struggle to live up to the legacy of his mentor, Peter Parker, his relationships with his friends and family, or his determination to protect his community from rising threats, the game's narrative is a masterclass in storytelling that resonates long after the credits roll.

A Vibrant and Diverse World:
Set against the backdrop of Harlem, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a love letter to New York City and its rich culture. From the bustling streets and vibrant neighborhoods to the diverse cast of characters that populate its world, every corner of Miles' Harlem feels alive with energy, personality, and authenticity. Whether players are exploring the city's iconic landmarks, interacting with its residents, or uncovering hidden secrets, there's a sense of immersion and connection that's truly remarkable.

Conclusion:
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a breathtaking adventure that captures the heart and soul of its titular hero in every swing, leap, and electrifying moment. With its dynamic gameplay, heartfelt storytelling, and vibrant world, it's a game that's sure to delight fans of Spider-Man and newcomers alike. So grab your web shooters, don your mask, and get ready to swing through Harlem with Miles Morales – because with great power comes great responsibility, and Miles is ready to rise to the challenge.

Rating: 9.5/10 - Swinging Through Harlem with Heart and Heroism

Marvel's Avengers: A Superhero Adventure That's More Quirky Than Quinjet!

Marvel's Avengers, the epic superhero action-adventure game by Crystal Dynamics, is like assembling your own team of Earth's mightiest heroes – except with a lot more glitches, a dash of absurdity, and maybe even a few accidental team-ups with your favorite household appliances. While the game had a rocky start, it's now a rollercoaster of hilarity that's sure to leave you laughing – whether you're battling supervillains, exploring iconic locations, or just trying to figure out how Thor's hammer got stuck in the vending machine.

The Avengers Assemble... Kinda:
From the moment you step into the shoes of your favorite Marvel hero – whether it's the mighty Thor, the incredible Hulk, or the snarky Iron Man – you'll be greeted with a sense of superheroic absurdity that's impossible to resist. Whether you're engaging in epic battles against AIM robots, solving puzzles with the power of Captain America's shield, or accidentally tripping over Black Widow's invisible jet (yes, really), there's never a dull moment in the world of Marvel's Avengers.

Superhero Shenanigans and Glitchy Goodness:
But let's be real – part of the charm of Marvel's Avengers lies in its quirky glitches, absurd physics, and downright hilarious moments. From Iron Man getting stuck in a T-pose mid-flight to Captain America's shield bouncing off walls like a particularly stubborn boomerang, the game's glitches are as entertaining as they are unpredictable. And don't even get me started on the time I accidentally launched Hulk into orbit with a mistimed jump – sorry, big guy!

Team-Ups and Tactical Maneuvers:
Of course, no Avengers game would be complete without the thrill of teaming up with your friends to take down the forces of evil – or, you know, accidentally smashing into each other while trying to land a coordinated attack on Thanos. Whether you're battling through story missions, taking on challenging boss fights, or just goofing around in the game's open-world environments, there's always something fun to do with your fellow superheroes – even if it involves a few unintended explosions along the way.

Conclusion:
Marvel's Avengers is a superhero adventure that's more quirky than Quinjet, more hilarious than Hulk's rage, and more entertaining than Tony Stark's one-liners. With its absurd physics, quirky glitches, and endless opportunities for superheroic shenanigans, it's the perfect game for fans of Marvel and mayhem alike. So grab your cape, dust off your shield, and get ready for a superpowered adventure that's sure to leave you laughing all the way to the post-credits scene.

Rating: 7.5/10 - A Superhero Adventure That's More Quirky Than Quinjet!

Manor Lords, the highly anticipated medieval city-building and real-time strategy game, has finally launched into Early Access, and the reception so far has been nothing short of promising. Developed by Slavic Magic, Manor Lords aims to offer a unique blend of city-building, resource management, and large-scale battles set in a meticulously crafted medieval world.

Early feedback from players has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the game's depth of mechanics, attention to detail, and immersive atmosphere. From the intricate city-building mechanics that allow players to design and manage their own medieval settlements to the epic battles that see armies clashing on the battlefield, Manor Lords has already captured the imagination of strategy fans around the world.

Of course, no Early Access launch is without its challenges, and Manor Lords is no exception. Some players have reported encountering bugs, performance issues, and other technical hiccups, which is to be expected in the early stages of development. However, the developers have been quick to respond to player feedback and have already released several updates to address these issues, demonstrating their commitment to delivering a polished and enjoyable experience.

Overall, the launch of Manor Lords has been a promising start for this ambitious indie title. With its immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and dedicated development team, Manor Lords has the potential to become a standout title in the city-building and strategy genre. As the game continues to evolve and improve throughout its Early Access period, fans of medieval strategy games have plenty to look forward to in Manor Lords.

Mad Max: A Post-Apocalyptic Playground Where Cars Rule, Chaos Reigns, and Explosions are the Norm!

Mad Max, the open-world action-adventure game by Avalanche Studios, is like a wild ride through a post-apocalyptic fever dream – equal parts exhilarating, absurd, and downright hilarious. With its over-the-top vehicular combat, larger-than-life characters, and endless opportunities for mayhem, Mad Max is a game that doesn't take itself too seriously – and neither should you.

The Road Warrior's Playground:
Step into the shoes of the titular Mad Max, a grizzled wasteland wanderer with a penchant for violence and a knack for survival. From the desolate plains of the Wasteland to the sprawling cities of the War Boys, every corner of the Mad Max universe is a playground of chaos and carnage. Whether you're barreling down the open road in your souped-up Interceptor, engaging in epic car battles with rival factions, or exploring abandoned ruins in search of precious scrap, there's never a dull moment in Max's world.

Vehicular Mayhem and Motorized Madness:
But let's be real – the real star of the show in Mad Max isn't Max himself, but his trusty steed: the mighty V8 Interceptor. With its roaring engine, spiked armor, and array of deadly weapons, the Interceptor is more than just a car – it's a symbol of Max's survival in a world gone mad. Whether you're ramming enemy vehicles off the road, firing rockets at airborne threats, or engaging in high-speed pursuits through the wasteland, the vehicular mayhem in Mad Max is as exhilarating as it is absurd.

Quirky Characters and Wacky Antics:
Of course, no post-apocalyptic adventure would be complete without a colorful cast of characters to keep things interesting. From the flamboyant War Boys to the eccentric wasteland wanderers, every character you meet in Mad Max is a larger-than-life personality with their own quirks, motivations, and penchant for violence. Whether you're trading insults with a deranged warlord, rescuing damsels in distress, or helping a ragtag group of survivors build a makeshift fortress out of scrap metal, there's never a shortage of wacky antics and absurd situations to keep you entertained.

Conclusion:
Mad Max is a post-apocalyptic playground of vehicular mayhem, larger-than-life characters, and laugh-out-loud absurdity that's as entertaining as it is unpredictable. With its over-the-top action, quirky humor, and endless opportunities for chaos and carnage, it's the perfect game for anyone looking to blow off some steam in a world gone mad. So grab your shotgun, rev up your engine, and get ready for a wild ride through the wasteland with Mad Max!

Rating: 8.5/10 - A Post-Apocalyptic Playground Where Cars Rule, Chaos Reigns, and Explosions are the Norm!

Lego Skywalker Saga: A Galactic Adventure Where the Force is Strong, the Laughs are Endless, and the Bricks are Always in Motion!

Lego Skywalker Saga, the upcoming Lego game that promises to retell the epic saga of Star Wars in a hilariously blocky fashion, is like watching the entire Skywalker saga through a kaleidoscope of colorful bricks and comedic chaos. Developed by Traveller's Tales, this game is set to be a laugh-out-loud romp through a galaxy far, far away.

A Galaxy Far, Far Away... Made of Bricks:
From the deserts of Tatooine to the forests of Endor, Lego Skywalker Saga faithfully recreates the iconic locations of the Star Wars universe in glorious Lego form. But don't expect hyper-realistic graphics or jaw-dropping visuals – this is Lego, after all, where everything is made of bricks, including the Millennium Falcon and the Death Star. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Mos Eisley or navigating the treacherous corridors of the Death Star, every corner of the galaxy is filled with whimsy, humor, and the occasional misplaced brick.

The Force is Strong with This One:
But what would a Lego Star Wars game be without the Force? In Lego Skywalker Saga, you'll be able to wield the power of the Force like never before – and trust me, it's as hilarious as it is powerful. Whether you're using the Force to move objects, manipulate your surroundings, or prank your fellow characters with a well-placed Force push, the possibilities for mischief and mayhem are endless. Just be prepared for the occasional Force-related mishap – after all, mastering the Force is harder than it looks, especially when you're made of plastic.

Laugh-Out-Loud Moments and Irreverent Humor:
But perhaps the greatest strength of Lego Skywalker Saga is its irreverent humor and laugh-out-loud moments. From the slapstick antics of Lego characters to the clever sight gags and pop culture references hidden throughout the game, there's never a shortage of laughs to be had. Whether you're watching Darth Vader bust a move on the dance floor or witnessing the chaos that ensues when a lightsaber duel goes awry, Lego Skywalker Saga is guaranteed to keep you entertained from start to finish.

Conclusion:
Lego Skywalker Saga is a hilarious romp through the Star Wars universe that's as charming as it is absurd. With its whimsical adaptation of the iconic saga, laugh-out-loud humor, and endless opportunities for mischief and mayhem, it's the perfect game for fans of Star Wars and Lego alike. So grab your lightsaber, hop in your X-wing, and get ready for a galactic adventure where the Force is strong, the laughs are endless, and the bricks are always in motion!

Rating: 9/10 - A Galactic Adventure Where the Force is Strong, the Laughs are Endless, and the Bricks are Always in Motion!

Lego Harry Potter Years 1-4: A Magical Journey Through Hogwarts in Bricks and Laughter

Lego Harry Potter Years 1-4, the whimsical adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved wizarding world, is like stepping into Hogwarts through a portal of colorful bricks and playful humor. Developed by Traveller's Tales, this enchanting game brings the magic of Harry Potter to life in a way that's both charming and laugh-out-loud funny.

A Lego Twist on a Classic Tale:
From the moment you step into the brick-built world of Lego Harry Potter, you're greeted with a sense of whimsy and wonder that's impossible to resist. Whether you're casting spells, solving puzzles, or exploring the halls of Hogwarts, every moment is infused with the signature humor and creativity that Lego games are known for. With its lighthearted take on the iconic story of Harry Potter, Lego Harry Potter Years 1-4 is a joyous celebration of friendship, adventure, and, of course, magic.

Spellbinding Gameplay:
True to its Lego roots, Lego Harry Potter offers simple yet satisfying gameplay that's accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. From casting spells to building Lego contraptions to battling dark wizards, there's a wide variety of activities to keep you entertained throughout your journey. And with the ability to play as a wide range of beloved characters – from Harry, Ron, and Hermione to Hagrid, Dumbledore, and even Lord Voldemort himself – there's never a dull moment in the world of Lego Harry Potter.

Exploration and Discovery:
One of the highlights of Lego Harry Potter is its richly detailed and expansive world, which invites players to explore every nook and cranny of Hogwarts and beyond. Whether you're searching for hidden collectibles, unlocking secret areas, or simply admiring the lovingly recreated locations from the Harry Potter universe, there's always something new and exciting to discover. And with each new discovery comes a sense of childlike wonder and excitement that's truly magical.

Laugh-Out-Loud Humor:
But perhaps the greatest strength of Lego Harry Potter is its humor – witty, irreverent, and delightfully absurd. From the slapstick antics of Lego characters to the clever sight gags and pop culture references hidden throughout the game, there's never a shortage of laughs to be had. Whether you're watching a Lego version of Snape strut his stuff on the dance floor or witnessing the chaos that ensues when a spell goes awry, Lego Harry Potter is guaranteed to put a smile on your face from start to finish.

Conclusion:
Lego Harry Potter Years 1-4 is a delightful journey through the wizarding world that's as charming as it is hilarious. With its whimsical adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved story, spellbinding gameplay, and laugh-out-loud humor, it's the perfect game for fans of Harry Potter and Lego alike. So grab your wand, don your wizard hat, and get ready for a magical adventure that's sure to leave you spellbound.

Rating: 9/10 - A Magical Journey Through Hogwarts in Bricks and Laughter

Kingdoms and Castles: A Charming Blend of City Building, Strategy, and Dragons!

Kingdoms and Castles, the delightful city-building and strategy game by Lion Shield, is like a breath of fresh air in the world of simulation gaming. With its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and a dash of dragon-fueled excitement, Kingdoms and Castles offers a unique and enjoyable experience for fans of city builders and strategy games alike.

Building Your Kingdom:
From humble beginnings to a thriving medieval metropolis, Kingdoms and Castles allows you to design and manage your own kingdom from the ground up. With a variety of building options, resource management mechanics, and strategic decisions to make, every decision you make has consequences for the prosperity – or downfall – of your kingdom. Whether you're constructing towering castles to defend your lands, laying out efficient road networks to connect your villages, or planting crops to feed your citizens, the possibilities for city-building creativity are endless.

Defending Against Threats:
But it's not all sunshine and roses in the world of Kingdoms and Castles – there are threats lurking on the horizon that require careful planning and strategic thinking to overcome. From Viking raids to dragon attacks to the occasional tornado or plague outbreak, there's always something to keep you on your toes and your kingdom's defenses at the ready. But fear not, because with a bit of foresight and a well-trained army, you'll be able to fend off any threat that comes your way – or at least go down swinging.

Dragon-Sized Excitement:
Ah, dragons – the majestic, terrifying creatures that strike fear into the hearts of kings and peasants alike. In Kingdoms and Castles, dragons aren't just a mythical threat – they're a very real danger that could spell doom for your kingdom if you're not careful. From fiery breath attacks to destructive rampages through your villages, dealing with dragons requires quick thinking, resourcefulness, and maybe a bit of luck. But hey, who doesn't love a good dragon battle every now and then?

Charming Aesthetic and Relaxing Gameplay:
One of the things that sets Kingdoms and Castles apart from other city-building games is its charming aesthetic and relaxing gameplay. With its colorful, voxel-based graphics and soothing soundtrack, Kingdoms and Castles offers a more laid-back and casual experience compared to other strategy games. Whether you're admiring the sunset over your bustling kingdom or watching your citizens go about their daily lives, there's a sense of tranquility and contentment that permeates every aspect of the game.

Conclusion:
Kingdoms and Castles is a delightful blend of city-building, strategy, and dragon-fueled excitement that offers a unique and enjoyable experience for fans of simulation gaming. With its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and relaxing atmosphere, it's the perfect game for anyone looking to escape into a medieval world of creativity and adventure. So grab your crown, sharpen your sword, and get ready to build the kingdom of your dreams in Kingdoms and Castles.

Rating: 8.5/10 - A Charming Blend of City Building, Strategy, and Dragons!

Jurassic World Evolution 2: A Roaring Good Time with Dinosaurs, Disasters, and Delightful Chaos!

Jurassic World Evolution 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Frontier Developments' dinosaur park management simulation, is like stepping into the shoes of John Hammond himself – minus the white suits and eccentricity, of course. With its stunning visuals, deep simulation mechanics, and a healthy dose of prehistoric pandemonium, Jurassic World Evolution 2 promises to be a roaring good time for fans of dinosaurs and disaster management alike.

Building a Prehistoric Paradise:
From the moment you set foot on Isla Nublar, the iconic island that serves as your canvas, you'll be swept away by the sheer scale and beauty of Jurassic World Evolution 2. With a plethora of tools, buildings, and landscaping options at your disposal, you'll have everything you need to build the dinosaur park of your dreams – or nightmares, depending on your management skills. Whether you're creating lush habitats for your herbivores, constructing electrified fences to contain your carnivores, or adding thrilling attractions to entertain your guests, the possibilities are as endless as they are exciting.

Dinosaurs Galore:
Of course, what would a Jurassic World game be without dinosaurs? Jurassic World Evolution 2 boasts an impressive roster of prehistoric creatures, ranging from the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex to the majestic Brachiosaurus to the terrifying Velociraptor. With detailed animations, lifelike behaviors, and a variety of needs and preferences to fulfill, each dinosaur in your park feels like a living, breathing creature – albeit one with a penchant for snacking on unsuspecting guests.

Chaos and Calamity:
But it wouldn't be Jurassic World without a healthy dose of chaos and calamity, right? Whether it's a tropical storm wreaking havoc on your park, a dinosaur breakout causing panic among your guests, or a rival corporation sabotaging your operations, there's always something to keep you on your toes in Jurassic World Evolution 2. And let's not forget the occasional dinosaur rampage or unexpected genetic mutation – because what's a Jurassic park without a little danger, right?

Thrilling Campaign and Sandbox Modes:
Whether you prefer a structured campaign experience or a more relaxed sandbox mode, Jurassic World Evolution 2 has you covered. The campaign mode offers a thrilling narrative-driven experience, complete with memorable characters, challenging missions, and unexpected twists and turns. Meanwhile, the sandbox mode allows you to unleash your creativity and build the dinosaur park of your dreams without any pesky objectives or restrictions – because who needs rules when you're playing with dinosaurs?

Conclusion:
Jurassic World Evolution 2 is a prehistoric playground of epic proportions, where dinosaurs roam, disasters strike, and chaos reigns supreme. With its stunning visuals, deep simulation mechanics, and a healthy dose of prehistoric pandemonium, it's the perfect game for fans of dinosaurs, disaster management, and delightful chaos. So grab your hard hat, dust off your tranquilizer gun, and get ready for a roaring good time in Jurassic World Evolution 2.

Rating: 9/10 - A Roaring Good Time with Dinosaurs, Disasters, and Delightful Chaos!