Mass Effect 3 is the third and final game in the Mass Effect series, developed by Bioware and published by EA. The game was released on March 6, 2012, and was highly anticipated by fans of the series who were eager to see how the story of Commander Shepard would conclude.

The story of Mass Effect 3 picks up where Mass Effect 2 left off, with Shepard and the crew of the Normandy attempting to stop the Reaper invasion. The Reapers are a race of sentient machines that are intent on wiping out all organic life in the galaxy, and Shepard must unite the different alien races and factions in the galaxy in order to stand a chance against them.

One of the strengths of Mass Effect 3 is its storytelling. The game features a deep and engaging narrative that draws the player in and keeps them invested in the fate of the galaxy. The characters are well-written and their relationships with Shepard feel real and meaningful. The game also features some truly emotional moments that will leave players feeling heartbroken or inspired depending on the choices they make.

The gameplay in Mass Effect 3 is similar to its predecessors, with players taking control of Shepard and his/her squad as they explore various planets and complete missions. The game features a mix of third-person shooter gameplay and role-playing game mechanics, allowing players to customize their characters with different weapons, armor, and abilities. The combat is fast-paced and exciting, with a wide variety of enemies to fight and different strategies to employ.

One of the new features in Mass Effect 3 is the addition of multiplayer. Players can team up with up to three other people and take on waves of enemies in a variety of maps. The multiplayer is well-designed and adds a new layer of depth to the game, as players can earn experience and unlock new weapons and characters.

The graphics in Mass Effect 3 are impressive, with detailed environments and character models that bring the game's universe to life. The game also features a fantastic soundtrack, with an epic score that adds to the sense of scale and drama.

However, Mass Effect 3 is not without its flaws. One of the biggest criticisms of the game was the ending, which was controversial among fans. Many felt that the ending was unsatisfying and did not do justice to the choices they had made throughout the series. Bioware later released an updated version of the ending that addressed some of these concerns, but the damage had already been done.

Another issue with Mass Effect 3 is the implementation of the game's DLC. While the DLC added new content to the game, some players felt that it was too expensive and that it should have been included in the base game. This led to some backlash from the community, and Bioware later released a "complete edition" of the game that included all of the DLC.

In conclusion, Mass Effect 3 is a fantastic game that provides a satisfying conclusion to the story of Commander Shepard. The game's storytelling, gameplay, graphics, and soundtrack are all top-notch, and the addition of multiplayer adds even more replay value. While the ending may be controversial and the DLC implementation could have been handled better, these issues do not detract from the overall quality of the game. Mass Effect 3 is a must-play for fans of the series and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted sci-fi epic.

Super Mario World is an absolute masterpiece of a game that deserves every bit of its legendary status. The gameplay is simply flawless, with the controls feeling tight and responsive, and the level design offering a perfect blend of challenge and fun.

The game's mechanics are incredibly well-polished, with Mario's various abilities like running, jumping, and sliding all feeling just right. The power-ups are also a highlight, with the classic Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Cape Feather all returning, along with new additions like the power-up-granting blocks and Yoshi.

But what truly sets Super Mario World apart is its level design. Each stage feels unique, with cleverly designed obstacles and enemies that always keep you on your toes. The game's difficulty curve is also perfectly balanced, with each level gradually ramping up in challenge as you progress, but never feeling unfairly punishing.

The secret exits and hidden levels add a sense of exploration and discovery to the game, rewarding players who take the time to search every nook and cranny. And the game's multiple paths, with some levels offering two or three different exits, give the game an incredible amount of replayability.

Overall, Super Mario World is a true masterpiece of game design, offering a perfect blend of tight controls, clever mechanics, and incredible level design. It's a must-play for any fan of platformers, and it remains just as fun and engaging today as it did when it first released on the Super Nintendo over 30 years ago. I can't recommend it highly enough, and it's easily deserving of a 5-star rating.

Mass Effect is a critically acclaimed and beloved video game franchise that has captivated millions of players since its initial release in 2007. The series is known for its captivating storytelling, immersive world-building, and engaging gameplay mechanics.

The Mass Effect series is set in a vast, sci-fi universe where players take on the role of Commander Shepard, a human hero tasked with saving the galaxy from a range of threats. The series is famous for its branching narrative paths, which allow players to make choices that impact the game's story and ending.

One of the most notable aspects of Mass Effect is its incredible attention to detail in crafting its universe. From the different alien species that inhabit the galaxy to the intricate politics and conflicts between various factions, every aspect of the game feels deeply thought-out and engaging. The series also boasts some of the most memorable and well-written characters in gaming history, with players forming deep emotional connections to their squadmates and other supporting cast members.

In terms of gameplay, Mass Effect is a third-person shooter with RPG elements. Players can customize their character's abilities, weapons, and equipment, and engage in tactical combat against a variety of enemies. The game's combat system is dynamic and challenging, requiring players to make strategic decisions based on their surroundings and the enemies they face.

Overall, Mass Effect is a masterpiece of gaming that offers a deeply immersive and rewarding experience. Its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and thrilling gameplay make it a must-play for any fan of sci-fi or gaming in general. Whether you're a newcomer or a longtime fan, the Mass Effect series is an experience that should not be missed.

Super Mario Bros is a classic video game that was first released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). It quickly became a cultural phenomenon and is widely regarded as one of the most influential video games of all time.

The game follows the adventures of Mario, a plumber who sets out to save Princess Toadstool from the evil Bowser, the King of the Koopas. The gameplay consists of navigating through various levels, defeating enemies, and collecting power-ups to aid in Mario's quest.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Super Mario Bros is its level design. Each level is thoughtfully crafted with unique challenges and secrets to discover. The game's difficulty also gradually increases as the player progresses through the levels, providing a satisfying sense of progression and accomplishment.

The controls of Super Mario Bros are also incredibly responsive and intuitive. The simple mechanics of running, jumping, and shooting fireballs feel natural and allow for a high degree of precision in gameplay. The game's tight controls have been replicated in countless platformers since its release, a testament to its enduring influence.

Another standout feature of Super Mario Bros is its iconic soundtrack. The game's catchy tunes have become ingrained in popular culture and are instantly recognizable by gamers and non-gamers alike. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it remains an enjoyable experience for players of all ages.

In conclusion, Super Mario Bros is a timeless classic that is still as enjoyable to play today as it was upon its initial release. The game's masterful level design, responsive controls, and iconic soundtrack have cemented its place in video game history, and its influence can be felt in countless platformers to this day. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, Super Mario Bros is a must-play for any gamer.

A combination of great gameplay, level design and narrative, Prey is one of the best sci-fi games ever made. In Prey, you awaken on board Talos I, a space station orbiting the moon in 2032. The player discovers early on that the Talos 1 is being overrun by a deadly and menacing alien species. Their origin, the Talos 1s role in their appearance alongside your characters reveals itself over time. "Bioshock in space" might seem like hyperbole when someone is describing Prey but it truly isn't. Prey tells its story via the environments, audio logs and emails. Unlike most AAA games this game doesn't have elaborate cutscenes. The gameplay and the player are the focus from the very beginning. I highly recommend Prey to anyone that has Xbox Gamepass and even to someone that doesn't. The biggest tragedy surrounding Prey is that it under performed in the sales chart and that we may never receive a follow up.

Tinykin
Developed by: Splashteam (@SplashteamDevs)
Published by: tinyBuild (@tinyBuild)

Tinykin is a FANTASTIC platformer! Tinykin is collectathon at heart that immerses you with its gorgeous art style, environments, and engaging gameplay.

The premise of Tinykin is that you, the player are Milo, a tiny space man who has crash landed inside someones house on Earth. Think “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.” Everything inside the house is “normal” size but you, the player as Milo are the size of a bug.

The players goal is to travel throughout the house looking for components to rebuild Milo’s spaceship. As the player travels through each room they will come across various items to collect and a small cast of unique but fun characters.

What takes this game to another level is the “Tinykin.” A small creature that once you free them from their eggs will follow you around and assist you in various ways. Some Tinykin will lift heavy objects for you, some will create platforms, some will conduct electricity and others will stack and allow you to use them as a ladder to reach high out of reach locations. It elevates the gameplay and is one of the most creative things I’ve experienced in a game in years.

The fun gameplay, and mystery surrounding the house immersed me from the very first cut scene. This game is one of the best games I’ve played this year. A must play game if you enjoy platformers.

Pros:
The art style
Gameplay (specifically the story)
Music, and sound design

Cons:
Length of the game. (I was left wanting more because it was incredibly fun which I guess isn’t really a con? It didn’t overstay its welcome)


Played on: Xbox Series X via Xbox Game Pass
Review score: 4.5/5

Video review available here > https://youtu.be/bXW4ER4rGow

Dead Space Remake: A Haunting Odyssey into Fear, Reimagined for a New Era

Welcome to my review of Dead Space: Remake. I’m Andrew, Let’s Begin!

In the eerie glow of my PlayStation 5, I embarked on a journey that transcended time, back to the familiar yet profoundly transformed corridors of the USG Ishimura. Motive Studio’s Dead Space Remake, unleashed on January 27, promised a reinvigorated nightmare, and as the flickering screen came to life, I was immediately thrust into a realm of horror meticulously crafted for the modern era.

The Haunting Prelude: A Reawakening of Terror

The Ishimura, once a hallowed ground for trigger-happy horror enthusiasts, emerged anew, dripping with fresh blood and cloaked in an unsettling aura. As Isaac Clarke, the former silent protagonist now voiced by the talented Gunner Wright, I found myself crash-landing onto the ship alongside my bickering crewmates, Chief Security Officer Hammond and computer specialist Kendra Daniels. The ship retained its familiar layout yet appeared more suffocating than ever before. The upgraded tram system, smoothly connecting the ship's compartments, emphasized Ishimura's claustrophobic nature, creating an atmosphere laden with dread and anticipation.

The Dance of Shadows: A Visual Spectacle

The visual overhaul was immediately apparent. Fifteen years had passed since the original's debut, and the advancements in technology were evident. The darkness that enshrouded Ishimura was more palpable, the organic goo clinging to the walls more grotesque, and the graffiti scattered across the ship's surfaces, bearing desperate messages of revolt, lent an air of desolation. Motive Studio's attention to detail was nothing short of astounding, breathing life into every nook and cranny of the ship. Every encounter, every flicker of movement in the shadows, became a testament to the studio's commitment to crafting an immersive horror experience.

The Necromorph Symphony: Strategic Brutality Evolved

The necromorphs, once again the primary antagonists, were as horrifying as ever. Their taut, twisted forms and pustule-covered bodies elicited a visceral reaction, emphasizing the grotesque nature of their transformation. The strategic dismemberment mechanic, a hallmark of the Dead Space series, remained at the core of combat. Choosing my arsenal – be it the iconic Plasma Cutter, the versatile Pulse Rifle, or the bone-chilling Ripper – became a matter of survival. However, it was the Force Gun, with its gravity manipulation module, that became my weapon of choice, turning necromorphs into mere piles of bones in the wake of my onslaught.

The Dichotomy of Isaac Clarke: Voice and Identity

Isaac Clarke, once an empty vessel for players to project their fears, had found his voice. While his newfound dialogue humanized him, it created a curious distance, a sense of detachment that left me questioning his identity. The silent protagonist of the past had allowed players to immerse themselves fully, projecting their fears onto Isaac's silent demeanor. In contrast, the vocal Isaac, following orders and yearning to return home, felt like a character in a horror movie, lacking the depth needed to form a profound connection with the player.

The Boss Battles: Rituals of Predictability

The boss battles, while methodical and tense, lacked the depth I yearned for. Hit the glowing boils until they burst, dodge tendrils, move left, move right – the patterns became predictable, diminishing the sense of accomplishment that should accompany overcoming formidable adversaries. In the midst of these battles, a lingering question emerged: What am I fighting for? The narrative, while engaging, failed to provide a compelling reason to invest emotionally in Isaac's plight. His quest to reunite with his girlfriend Nicole, while hinted at, felt token, a feeble attempt to evoke empathy in the face of relentless horror.

The Legacy of Dead Space: Nostalgia versus Innovation

The Dead Space Remake stood at the crossroads of nostalgia and innovation. The enhancements were undeniable – the improved visuals, the seamless gameplay on the PS5, and the additional layers of exploration introduced through new rooms and optional side quests. Yet, amidst the advancements, the essence of the original Dead Space, the magic that had captivated players in 2008, felt elusive. The fear was there, alternating with moments of confusion, leaving me wondering if I was missing something vital – perhaps the raw authenticity of experiencing those grainy graphics in a dark dorm room.

In the ever-evolving landscape of horror gaming, where protagonists are more complex, and adversaries more intriguing, the Dead Space Remake found itself in a peculiar position. It achieved its primary goal – making an old game compatible for modern consoles – yet fell short of rekindling the lightning-in-a-bottle magic that had defined its predecessor. The legacy of Dead Space, with its spine-chilling atmosphere and strategic brutality, remained intact, yet the remake left me yearning for the intangible, the elusive essence that had made the original a timeless masterpiece.

Conclusion: A Remake's Reverie and the Shadows of Fear

In hindsight, my review might come across as negative, but it's crucial to note that the Dead Space Remake is undeniably a great game. However, for someone like me, who had experienced the original, some of the game's moments didn't hit as hard due to my familiarity with what was coming. Despite this, I firmly believe that it's a must-buy or must-play title, especially for those who have access to Xbox Game Pass. The game's eerie atmosphere and refined gameplay still make it a compelling experience, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation for both newcomers and longtime fans of the series.
In the end, the Dead Space Remake for me was a journey into the shadows of fear, a reverie that invoked both nostalgia and a longing for something more. It stood as a testament to the evolution of horror gaming, embracing new technologies and storytelling techniques while struggling to capture the enigmatic spirit of its forebear. The haunting echoes of the original Dead Space lingered, reminding me of the chilling nights spent exploring the Ishimura's dimly lit halls, a memory that, despite the remake's efforts, remained unmatched in its primal intensity. As I powered down my PlayStation 5, the shadows of fear and the whispers of the past merged, leaving me with a lingering sense of both satisfaction and a desire for the ineffable magic that had once defined Dead Space.