Scrabble® GO-Classic Word Game

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In 2025, as you browse this website, you are likely well aware that the world is currently in a state of disarray. This has been the case for a few years now, or even longer, depending on whom you ask, and there doesn't appear to be an end in sight. Fortunately, Spilled offers a bit of solace. This new game revolves around a small boat tasked with cleaning up a vast mess, providing a chance to tidy up a digital realm. Spilled, now available on PC, marks the debut indie game from developer Lente. Residing on a boat herself, this is her first release on Steam. In Lente’s Spilled, you take on the role of a quaint little boat, embarking on a mission to clean a stunning pixel art world. Equipped with an upgradeable vacuum, water cannon, and crane, you'll combat the havoc wreaked by sinister boats leaving trails of black goo across various biomes. Your mission is to collect this goo and recycle it into coins, which can then be used to enhance your boat. <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-jlFrzPmp4?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Spilled! Release Date Trailer" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-jlFrzPmp4?feature=oembed" title="Spilled! Release Date Trailer" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> The concept behind Spilled is straightforward yet masterfully executed. Navigating the boat is a delight, and upgrading its engine to increase speed is even more gratifying. Initially, the goo appears in small patches that are simple to clean up. However, as the game progresses, you'll encounter larger spills requiring multiple passes to clear effectively. This process is incredibly satisfying, akin to flawlessly wiping sudsy water off a car windshield with a squeegee. Once an area is sufficiently cleaned, sea creatures such as whales and dolphins return, and the water regains its blue hue.

Most players will need about an hour to complete Spilled. If your goal is to clean every nook of its charming world and discover all the hidden creatures, you might spend up to two hours. Though brief, the game is brimming with ideas. Every 10 minutes or so, Spilled introduces new cleaning techniques, like using a water cannon to access difficult-to-reach grime on rocks, or offers opportunities to further upgrade your boat. I'd be thrilled to see a sequel to Spilled that expands with additional levels, cleaning methods, and possibly a co-op mode. For now, however, Spilled stands as a delightful and gentle indie game that allows me to cleanse the world for an hour, which is a comforting experience. I truly appreciate it. .
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The World Is A Mess, But This New Tiny Boat Game Lets You Clean It Up

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In the realm of musical theater, sequels are quite rare, and when they do appear, they often fall short of expectations. For instance, most people are familiar with Phantom of the Opera, the hugely popular production by Andrew Lloyd Webber, yet many remain unaware of its sequel, Love Never Dies. There's a reason for this—it simply doesn't measure up! Therefore, when 2023 introduced Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical with the audacious release of the Orpheus DLC, which takes place after the main game's conclusion, I was more than a little surprised. What truly astonished me was just how much Stray Gods: Orpheus surpassed the original release. When Stray Gods initially debuted last year, I found it to be an exceedingly tedious and disorganized game, failing in nearly every aspect to successfully blend RPGs with musical theater. In my review, I noted that the game “never comprehends the complexities of storytelling in musicals,” and suggested that “while the team had a genuine passion for the concept of a roleplaying musical, they lacked the expertise to bring it to fruition.” Much of the blame fell on the star-studded cast, which included voice acting giants like Laura Bailey and Troy Baker, who, despite their acting prowess, failed to convince audiences of their singing abilities—not that they were provided with quality material. Credit must be given to developer Summerfall Studios, as Orpheus strips down the base game’s grand ambitions and seeks to address its flaws, creating something much improved. <h2>Having the perfect lead makes all the difference</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000014993" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000014993"><img alt="Image: Humble Games" class="size-full wp-image-2000014993 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="698" sizes="(max-width: 1279px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 1280px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283601571365782969.jpg" width="1239"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000014993">Image: Humble Games</figcaption></figure> Following the events of Stray Gods, which depict the Greek gods in a contemporary world where they sing like professional pop stars, Orpheus picks up the narrative threads of its titular character. When we last encountered Orpheus, he was isolated in the underworld, lost in contemplation. The DLC presents him with an opportunity to return to the realm of the living, sparking an existential crisis regarding his life’s purpose. What ensues is a concise one-and-a-half-hour character exploration. If you played the base game, you might be surprised that Orpheus takes center stage in the DLC, but it is undoubtedly the wisest choice Summerfall could have made.

Orpheus is brought to life by Broadway icon Anthony Rapp of Rent fame, who outshone everyone in the base game with his singular performance. Rapp was the saving grace of Stray Gods, and the Orpheus DLC provides him the opportunity to truly shine. Rapp’s portrayal of Orpheus is instantly captivating; he exudes a powerful stage presence, even within a video game. While Stray Gods’ attempts at humor frequently fell flat, Rapp managed to elicit laughter from me more than once just in the DLC’s opening moments. Not to mention, the man can sing. <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ghpsKZ84g1Q?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="375" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="A New Love (Red)" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="375" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ghpsKZ84g1Q?feature=oembed" title="A New Love (Red)" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> Determined to find love once more, Orpheus is drawn into a speed dating event orchestrated by Hermes. This leads to a remarkable show-stopping number called “A New Love.” It showcases a far superior approach to songwriting compared to the base game, featuring a delightful chorus that Orpheus revisits amidst increasingly disastrous dates throughout the night. There are even playful shifts in musical style as each new date alters the song's dynamics. Yet after each entertaining detour, Rapp’s remarkable voice brings the audience back. It’s Orpheus’s equivalent of an “I want” song, conveying what the main character will pursue for the rest of the show—something the base game never afforded to Laura Bailey’s Grace. “A New Love” stands out as the best number in Stray Gods, period, spanning both the DLC and the base game. Yet even this brilliant moment is not without its flaws. <h2>Familiar challenges hinder Stray Gods: Orpheus progress</h2> Much like the base game, Orpheus’s core gameplay offers the option to change your singing style mid-song. This is executed via a BioWare-style dialogue wheel, intended to emphasize the “roleplaying” aspect of the game’s title. In practice, however, this feature never operates smoothly, and each style change acts as a significant disruption, breaking the song's momentum. This remains true for the Orpheus DLC, regrettably diminishing “A New Love” during its best moments, and the song tends to overstay its welcome.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000014994" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000014994"><img alt="Image: Humble Games" class="size-full wp-image-2000014994 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="717" sizes="(max-width: 1279px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 1280px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283601616462939577.jpg" width="1279"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000014994">Image: Humble Games</figcaption></figure> Compounding the issue, the Orpheus DLC peaks with “A New Love” early on and subsequently declines. The remaining songs reintroduce more secondary characters from the base game, all voiced by actors lacking Rapp’s vocal prowess. While there are glimpses of greatness, the rest of the DLC fails to deliver. Even Rapp’s final number feels incomplete. I believe this is not a shortcoming of the songwriters as it was in the base game; the team clearly improved their ability to create musical-style tracks. Rather, the systems they were bound to retain from the base game have hindered the progress made. As the curtain falls on Stray Gods: Orpheus, I find myself torn. The DLC represents a remarkable enhancement over the original game, owing to an inspired choice of lead and outstanding songwriting. However, the dialogue-wheel-like system for altering song style remains as flawed as ever, preventing Orpheus from fully achieving the original ambitions of merging musical theater and RPGs. Nonetheless, the team at Summerfall Studios should take pride in how effectively they addressed the base game’s issues. Stray Gods: Orpheus may not achieve musical greatness, but it is a rare musical sequel that I would recommend over its predecessor. <hr/> Stray Gods: Orpheus is now available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. </div>

This Musical RPG’s DLC Has Songs And Singing That Blow The Base Game Away

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Within the opening minutes of the new cyberpunk noir game Nobody Wants to Die, the protagonist blazes through a series of genre clichés at lightning speed. He downs a bottle of pills, takes a swig of alcohol from his flask (with another unopened bottle of moonshine in the background), mourns his deceased wife, and muses about being a disgraced detective who bends the law. All of this unfolds before he receives a call from the police chief informing him of his reinstatement for a high-profile case. I'm enthralled by it. Nobody Wants to Die, developed by Critical Hit Games, is a heartfelt tribute to classic noir films. Although the game is set in a retro-futuristic New York City filled with floating cars and science that grants immortality, at its core, it remains a pulpy crime thriller. It doesn't seek to subvert the genre's tropes; rather, it embraces them to deliver a captivating, trope-laden mystery that plays it straight. Critical Hit has crafted a wonderfully gritty noir world here, one that's worth exploring. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000015822" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000015822"><img alt="Image: PLAION" class="size-full wp-image-2000015822 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 1279px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 1280px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283601695718507961.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000015822">Image: PLAION</figcaption></figure> The narrative kicks off with the death of a man named Green, the architect of this futuristic city's greatest achievement: immortality. In Nobody Wants to Die, people can transfer their consciousness between bodies. Even when a body perishes, one can purchase a new one, although it's costly. Now, Green is dead, and the murder was executed so meticulously that he won't get a chance to return. From this point, the five-to-six-hour story races toward its climax. The short runtime is a blessing, perfectly suited for the pulpy adventure.

As the disgraced yet temporarily reinstated detective James Karra, you visit a series of crime scenes to unravel a grand conspiracy. What initially appears to be a suicide quickly reveals itself to be something more sinister, involving the upper echelons of New York society. In this respect, Nobody Wants to Die offers its own spin on noir classics like Chinatown, and it succeeds admirably. Naturally, the story includes sci-fi detective tools, allowing Karra to rewind crime scenes and reconstruct events. This becomes the primary task: sifting through crime scene events in search of clues that piece together the mystery. <div class="review-box not-prose font-body full-bleed"> <div class="mx-auto max-w-[1024px]"> <div class="flex flex-col sm:flex-row gap-4 bg-accent text-white"> <figure class="flex-none sm:w-3/5"> <img alt="" class="w-full h-auto" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 1279px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 1280px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283601714861311417.jpg" width="1920"/> </figure> <div class="flex-1 text-center self-center"> <div class="text-center py-2"> Multiplatform </div> Nobody Wants to Die </div> </div> <div class="p-3 grid grid-cols-1 sm:grid-cols-2 sm:gap-4 bg-neutral-100"> <ul> <li class="pb-3"> Back Of The Box Quote "The only thing that could make it more noir is if the game was in black-and-white." </li> <li class="pb-3"> Type Of Game Narrative detective game </li> <li class="pb-3"> Liked Detailed world with unique visual aesthetic and fascinating world-building. </li> <li class="pb-3"> Disliked Doesn't quite land the ending, controls can be finicky at times. </li> </ul><ul> <li class="pb-3"> Developer Critical Hit Games </li> <li class="pb-3"> Platforms PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC </li> <li class="pb-3"> Release Date July 17, 2024 </li> <li class="pb-3"> Played Five-and-a-half hours to roll credits. </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> Several other tools are at your disposal (a UV lamp to reveal old blood trails, an X-ray to discover hidden compartments, etc.), but the gameplay remains straightforward and somewhat guided. I don't mind this, as each clue serves as a catalyst for Karra and his partner Sara to discuss the case's intricacies, providing new information. You're given just enough tasks to stay engaged without detracting from the central appeal, the complex mystery at the heart of the game. Most of my time at crime scenes was spent attentively listening to dialogue and trying to comprehend the case. Crime scenes also represent Nobody Wants to Die's most visually striking moments. This holds true even in the game's first major set piece, a vast penthouse with a grand staircase and a towering cherry tree at its center. Upon your initial arrival, the entire room is engulfed in flames, including the tree. As you reconstruct the timeline, you can rewind and witness the flames flicker and extinguish in reverse as color returns to the tree's leaves. It's truly spectacular. A floating bar and a secretive sex club also make appearances, each serving as a delightful playground to explore, even if only to admire the intricate details while listening to the dialogue. The dialogue is also exceptionally well-written. Karra and Sara handle the majority of the conversation, consistently hitting on noir tropes without making them feel stale.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000015824" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000015824"><img alt="Image: PLAION" class="size-full wp-image-2000015824 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 1279px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 1280px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283601735446955449.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000015824">Image: PLAION</figcaption></figure> This visual splendor extends throughout Nobody Wants to Die, becoming an integral part of its identity. The game's entire world is crafted with a stunning aesthetic that marries 40s flair with Blade Runner grit. It's a fusion of art deco design and purely industrial metal. It's incredibly evocative, much like BioShock's Rapture. The path you traverse through the world is as directed as the gameplay segments at crime scenes, yet it never feels constraining due to the incredible attention to detail in every area you explore. Everything in Nobody Wants to Die contributes to a larger tapestry, whether it's the conspiracy you're unraveling or the city of New York itself. The game's conclusion (or conclusions, as there are multiple) doesn't quite wrap up all the fascinating threads and world-building with the same precision as the rest of the narrative, but it doesn't leave a bitter taste. I had a great journey, even if the finale was somewhat underwhelming. The most surprising aspect of my experience with Nobody Wants to Die was its profound lore. The concept of a future without death isn't merely a superficial premise that initiates the mystery; it's a moral and ethical dilemma that Critical Hit Games explores at every turn. In 2329 New York, bodies are discussed as literal government property. This is as horrifying as it sounds, and the game delves into this with further details such as the illegality of drinking and smoking to preserve bodies for future owners, a subscription fee to use your body, and the emergence of a new death kink for wealthy individuals who can afford to buy poor bodies and inhabit them solely to experience a quick high before returning to their original body. It's a poignant allegory of wealth inequality and how the affluent view the less fortunate as mere commodities to control. Discovering more about this world is one of the most rewarding aspects of Nobody Wants to Die, and the flavor text you encounter is filled with intriguing details that enhance your understanding of the central crimes. This game took me by surprise, but its tightly paced film noir mystery is built on such a fascinating world that it has quickly become one of my favorite sleeper hits of 2024. </div>

This Fantastic Noir-Inspired Game Blends Blade Runner And BioShock

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The 394 P-Switch challenge missions might be the most time-consuming activities in Mario Kart World’s Free Roam mode. These missions can range from collecting a specific number of blue coins to maneuvering through an obstacle course using a certain item. Notably, there are seven short three-lap tribute races based on tracks from the original Super Mario Kart, which made its debut in 1992 on the SNES. The 394 P-Switch challenges are more akin to checkpoint races in other P-Switch challenges rather than traditional races where finishing first is the objective. Moreover, locating these challenges can be quite difficult. The lack of detailed information on the Free Roam map complicates the process of finding specific locations. Let’s explore which classic tracks are included and where to locate these challenges. <h2>Koopa Beach 1</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276653" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276653"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276653 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491187535381945.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276653">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Start by fast traveling to the Koopa Troopa Beach course and drive straight ahead. Continue moving forward until you reach Yoshi’s drive-thru, then take a left at the first small island with two trees. Drive into the P-Switch up ahead to initiate the tribute race.

<hr/> <h2>Vanilla Lake 1</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276655" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276655"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276655 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491210889266617.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276655">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This challenge is located on the path connecting Sky-High Sundae and Wario Shipyard. You can begin from either place, but the quickest route is to fast travel to Wario. He navigates the area and will start right in front of the track when you take control. The P-Switch that kicks off the tribute race is located after circling to the other side. Due to modifications in the recreation, the challenge is labeled as “Vanilla Lake” instead of referencing a specific track. Nonetheless, it’s evident that Vanilla Lake 1 is the main inspiration. <hr/> <h2>Choco Island 1</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276657" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276657"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276657 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491232934528441.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276657">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Fast travel to Choco Mountain and then turn around. Drive through the small tunnel and proceed straight onto the paved road. You’ll arrive at a looped path encircled by mud, Piranha Plants, and large colorful blocks. Take the left path to soon find a P-Switch that starts the Choco Island 1 tribute race mission.

<hr/> <h2>Choco Island 2</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276660" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276660"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276660 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491257429263801.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276660">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> The second track of the series is closer than expected. Fast travel to Choco Mountain and move forward this time. Follow the dirt path until you reach a fork in the road, once again surrounded by Piranha Plants and colorful blocks. Keep right and continue until you encounter the P-Switch. <hr/> <h2>Ghost Valley 1</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276664" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276664"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276664 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491277964576185.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276664">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This brings us to the final set of Super Mario Kart tribute races. Longtime fans might already recognize them, especially as they’re all close to each other. Fast travel to Boo Cinema and start driving left immediately. Descend the wide staircase and proceed to the P-Switch on the pier ahead.

<hr/> <h2>Ghost Valley 2</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276666" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276666"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276666 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491297543587257.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276666">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> You’ll need to go just a bit further to reach the next one. Instead of going down the staircase and activating the P-Switch ahead, turn right and follow the pier. Continue until you can turn right again. Drive forward to find the P-Switch for the Ghost Valley 2 tribute. <hr/> <h2>Ghost Valley 3</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000276669" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000276669"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000276669 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491313364501945.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000276669">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This one is even simpler to reach. After descending the staircase and reaching the pier, turn left and drive briefly down and out of the poison swamp. Near the end of this straight path, you’ll find the P-Switch for Ghost Valley 3. In case you’re wondering, yes, these tracks are playable in Mirror Mode too. Activate it in Free Roam mode to tackle a mirrored version of these tribute races. <hr/> Mario Kart World is now available exclusively on Switch 2.
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Mario Kart World Has Some Fantastic SNES-Era Throwback Tracks You Need To Try Out

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Securing first place in the 150cc races of Mario Kart World hinges on several factors, including mastering shortcuts, knowing when to wall ride, and managing the unpredictability of being bombarded with shells. Despite these challenges, players have deciphered the game’s underlying meta, identifying the optimal vehicles and characters for 150cc and online races. However, this competitive meta is less dominant in the Time Trials mode. Read More: Mario Kart World: 8 Clever Ways To Dodge Blue Shells And Keep Your Lead When racing against the clock with only yourself and a few coins on the track, a unique strategy is required. Time Trials has its own meta to follow, making it easier to surpass the developer times and those set by the community. <h2>Best Karts for Time Trial</h2> To beat developer ghosts or top the player rankings in Time Trials mode, karts with a high Speed stat are crucial. While Acceleration and Handling still have their roles, they aren't as crucial in this mode. Speed takes precedence when Blue Shells or Mega Mushroom drivers aren’t a concern.

With this in mind, prioritize these karts for breaking Time Trial records. Reel Racer Bowser Bruiser / Chargin’ Truck / Li’l Dumpy / Mecha Trike / Tiny Titan Stellar Sled Baby Blooper / Loco Moto <h2>Best Characters for Time Trial</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000000001" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000000001"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000000001 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491404062131641.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000000001">Screenshot: Nintendo / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> With Speed as the priority stat for Time Trials, heavier characters generally perform best. Bowser is a popular choice, being the heaviest character with the highest speed. His unique weight class often makes him a staple in player Time Trial rankings for various tracks. Pairing Bowser with a Reel Racer maximizes Speed, though opting for a more balanced option like the Baby Blooper can also yield impressive records. Read More: The Best Characters For Every Track In Mario Kart World If you feel a track demands better handling or prefer not to always choose Bowser, stepping down to the next weight class offers variety. Characters in the two heaviest weight classes include: Bowser Wario, Waluigi, Donkey Kong, Wiggler, Cow, Chargin’ Chuck, Pianta These characters are generally reliable for most tracks. However, there are situations where lighter characters excel. Tracks with strong winds like Shy Guy Bazaar or those with numerous turns like Mario Circuit aren’t ideal for Bowser. In such cases, using smaller characters like the baby versions, Toadette, or Shy Guy can be advantageous, while still sticking with the recommended karts. <hr/> Mario Kart World is currently available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2.
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The Best Characters And Karts For Smashing Mario Kart World Time Trial Records

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Suck up the dew</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Expand your blood-harvesting capabilities</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Craft a Stillsuit</li></ul></nav></div>
Arrakis is a harsh and unforgiving planet, dominated by its sprawling deserts and rugged landscape. Its only notable resource is its spice, but before you can think about that, your primary focus must be survival. You need water. Without a constant supply of hydration, the enormous sandworms lurking in the dunes will be the least of your concerns. The game presents several methods to obtain water, many of which involve a thirst for blood. Literally. Prepare yourself for a vampire-like experience, as acquiring water in Dune: Awakening is not for the faint of heart. <h2>Suck up the dew</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000000008" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000000008"><img alt="Screenshot: Funcom / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000000008 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491496538146233.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000000008">Screenshot: Funcom / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> One of the initial methods to quench your thirst is by extracting excess dew from flowers. These flowers, which exhibit a pinkish-red hue, are referred to as Dew Fields. Their primary function is to provide nourishment to survivors like yourself. Unfortunately, you can't utilize them for anything else. The limitation, however, is that Dew Fields only yield enough water to fill your thirst meter to the first level. Beyond that, you'll need to rely on additional tools and, ideally, some blood.

 <h2>Expand your blood-harvesting capabilities</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000000009" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000000009"><img alt="Screenshot: Funcom / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000000009 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491517241230777.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000000009">Screenshot: Funcom / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> A highly effective way to acquire water in Dune: Awakening is through blood. Although bandit camps aren't overly frequent, they appear often enough to ensure a consistent supply. Spend some time outside your base to take down a couple of bandits, or even a player or two if you're feeling bold, and then extract their blood using a Blood Extractor and Blood Sack. With your resource in hand, return to your base—preferably one equipped with power, as you'll need it for the workbench—and deposit the blood into a Blood Purifier. The machine will require some time to perform its magic, extracting life-saving water from the blood of your adversaries. Alternatively, you could drink the blood directly from the Sack. <h2>Craft a Stillsuit</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000000010" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000000010"><img alt="Screenshot: Funcom / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000000010 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491542188950969.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000000010">Screenshot: Funcom / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Once you have secured a consistent water supply, it is crucial to retain your hydration while traversing the desert. The relentless sun will quickly deplete your moisture. As you move and perspire, a Stillsuit will gradually replenish your hydration meter by recycling the water you lose.

To craft a Stillsuit, you must first unlock the initial blueprint from the research table, then construct a Fabricator. Once you have the workbench set up, along with the necessary materials, you can craft: Scavenger Stillsuit Body Scavenger Stillsuit Boots Scavenger Stillsuit Gloves Scavenger Stillsuit Mask Together, the suit provides hydration to keep you alert and ready... until a sandworm devours you, and you lose it all! That didn't happen to me, I'm not upset, I assure you. <hr/> Dune: Awakening is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Forget About The Damn Spice And Focus On Your Thirst Meter In Dune: Awakening

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“Baja Blast has always been a source of innovation, surpassing expectations, and remains a fundamental part of the Taco Bell experience,” stated Taylor Montgomery, chief marketing officer at Taco Bell, in a press release introducing Baja Midnight. Alright, take it easy, Taylor. Nevertheless, I agree that Baja Blast is popular, and your latest version with a hint of passionfruit is indeed quite impressive. Although the press release is filled with marketing jargon and hyperboles, it's true that the blue tropical twist on Mountain Dew known as Baja Blast has been on Taco Bell’s menu for two decades and is a confirmed fan favorite that draws people back to the Tex-Mex fast-food chain. Considering its widespread appeal, it almost seems risky for Taco Bell to alter this cherished beverage. Tampering with something as classic and adored as Baja Blast rarely ends well. However, I’m pleased someone took the chance because Mountain Dew Baja Midnight, a new soda available only at Taco Bell, offers a delightful twist on one of my beloved sodas. And if it’s not to your liking, Baja Blast is still on the menu at Taco Bell. On August 14, the release date of Baja Midnight, I visited my local Taco Bell. Approaching the drive-thru, I was met with large signs celebrating the arrival of Baja Midnight. The signs, much like the soda, were vibrant purple. In the drink’s press release, Montgomery referred to it as “Taco Bell purple.” Sure, that works.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618034" class="wp-caption alignleft" id="attachment_2000618034"><img alt="" class="wp-image-2000618034 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="393" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491774133962169.jpg" width="699"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618034">©Taco Bell</figcaption></figure> We arrived at the drive-thru, and I checked in using my app (Yes, I’m quite the Taco Bell enthusiast) and ordered some food along with two large servings of Midnight. They were indeed as vividly purple as the promotional materials promised. I pondered, “Should a person really consume something so artificially colored and vibrant?” but then I recalled my long history with energy drinks and Taco Bell meals. If those haven’t done me in, a peculiarly purple soda won’t either. After savoring some Taco Bell treats, I took my first substantial sip of Midnight. Initially, it felt like I was just drinking Baja Blast. The new soda is equally sweet and tropical as the original. Was this some elaborate joke by Taco Bell executives on their customers? But then, I detected a hint of passionfruit. While not overpowering, those who adore passionfruit might find it too subtle. Personally, I thought it blended nicely. Baja Blast is the ideal companion to Taco Bell’s burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. I was concerned that Midnight might disrupt that harmony. Instead, the gentle passionfruit flavor offers a fresh way to enjoy Baja Blast. In the future, I’ll still opt for Baja Blast, but I anticipate that occasionally, during my visits to Taco Bell, I’ll want to mix things up, and Baja Midnight will be there to offer a slightly tangier and sweeter variation on the original drink. Well done, Taylor Montgomery, chief marketing officer at Taco Bell, and the entire team involved. You’ve preserved the essence of Baja Blast while adding something special. Congratulations. Now, could you please add chips to the Cantina Chicken Bowl?
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Taco Bell’s First New Baja Blast Flavor In 21 Years Is A Subtle Symphony Of Artificial Flavoring

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The Mafia game series has always been distinguished by its strong sense of time and place. As a Chinese immigrant, I often found ways to connect with these games, even if the focus on Italian crime families didn't directly resonate with me. From the Chinatown areas in the original Mafia to the Triads in Mafia II, the series consistently exuded authenticity. Mafia III's departure from Italian-American protagonists to a Black man navigating the racist criminal underworld of late-1960s America was perhaps the most authentic portrayal, shedding light on societal forces that still impact us today, while examining the violence inherent within them. The latest installment, Mafia: The Old Country, lacks the immigrant perspective and racial tensions of its predecessors. Instead, it centers on class dynamics and the struggles of workers in its narrative about the mob in 1904 Sicily. While the game is enriched by unforgettable characters and exceptionally genuine performances, it is somewhat hampered by outdated gameplay mechanics. The story revolves around Enzo Favara, a laborer who dreams of a better life in America, hoping to save enough money to secure his freedom. One day, the sulfur mine he works in collapses, resulting in the death of his friend Gaetano. Themes of revolution and workers' rights are prominently featured in the opening hours of Mafia: The Old Country.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617522" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617522"><img alt="Two men on horseback ride along a Sicilian rode in a screenshot from Mafia: The Old Country. Subtitles show that a character named Luca is saying, &quot;Right or not, we can't have labor unions on the Don's turf. We are in favor of free enterprise around here.&quot;" class="size-full wp-image-2000617522 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1081" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491871727027641.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617522">© 2K</figcaption></figure> Having toiled for a pittance his entire life and witnessing Gaetano's tragic end, Enzo finally musters the courage to confront II Merlo, the mine underboss from the Spadaro crime family. Overpowered, Enzo manages to escape and inadvertently crosses into Torrisi crime family territory. Il Merlo pursues him, but just as Enzo is about to be killed, Don Bernardo Torrisi intervenes, saving him. The Don warns Il Merlo, as he was caught on Torrisi territory, risking a war between the crime families. Recognizing the Don's influence and power, Enzo accepts the offer to join the Torrisi family, viewing it as a golden opportunity to escape the poor working conditions he has known. <h2>Welcome to the family</h2> Once part of the family, Enzo soon finds himself on the opposite side of the labor struggle. Acting as an enforcer, he breaks up a union strike to maintain order for the Don. This intriguing juxtaposition hints at Enzo's dark descent into mob life, though this aspect feels slightly underdeveloped. Unlike the recent animated film Transformers One, which carried its themes of worker exploitation to a stirring climax more explicitly, The Old Country uses these themes more as a subtext for Enzo's eventual realization that his involvement with the Torrisi family is another form of exploitation. A noble goal, yet the execution feels as if The Old Country sidelines these resonant ideas in favor of a more conventional, albeit well-crafted, crime story about escaping the life of crime. Nevertheless, the story eventually comes together satisfyingly. As the narrative unfolds, the Don's requests become bloodier and more perilous until Enzo realizes he's merely a tool, much like any other worker. Ironically, by the end, Enzo learns that the path he chose, which seemed to promise liberation and luxury, has only confined him more than staying in the mines would have.

Enzo's late friend Gaetano possessed a postcard from his uncle in Empire Bay, the setting of Mafia II and a fictional representation of East Coast cities like New York City. In it, Gaetano's uncle promised steak and eggs upon their arrival in the U.S., a significant upgrade from the scant bread rations they received in the mines. As the years pass, Enzo carries this postcard as a memento of his friend and their shared dream, inspiring him to reach America. It's a powerful motivator for Enzo, and as he becomes further entangled in the business, it symbolizes the unattainable, chipping away at the hyper-masculine allure often associated with mafia media. This allows us to sympathize more with Enzo as the story progresses. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617523" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617523"><img alt="A man who exudes power stands behind an elegant wooden desk with an old-timey phone on it looking stern in a screenshot from Mafia: The Old Country." class="size-full wp-image-2000617523 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491891775800761.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617523">© 2K</figcaption></figure> Ultimately, Enzo's story is a tragedy. He is unaware that Italian immigrants in America face marginalization and poor economic conditions, driving some to join organized crime groups like the American mafia. While a steak and eggs meal sounds appealing, not all that glitters is gold. Even if Enzo reaches American shores, he might find himself in a similar situation, seeking escape from organized crime. No matter where he goes, he will always confront insurmountable odds preventing him from achieving the carefree and affluent life he envisioned. These compelling narrative threads kept me engaged with The Old Country, elevating its story beyond a series of cutscenes meant to support the middling gameplay moments. Through Enzo, we witness the struggle and sacrifice many endure to chase a dream that is, in reality, just a fantasy.

Despite its ups and downs, the story benefits from a fantastic supporting cast and stellar voice performances. Within the Torrisi crime family, Enzo's bold friend Cesare brings out the protagonist's bloodthirsty side, while mentor Luca imparts wisdom to keep Enzo from getting in over his head. The Don is the most stereotypically mob-like, focusing on family and loyalty above all else, but the character interactions make them feel more than just typical organized crime members. In the English track, all the voice actors speak with heavy Italian accents, which adds to the authenticity that the Mafia franchise is known for, without feeling insultingly stereotypical. The Sicilian dub is also excellent and can enhance your immersion. However, be aware that the characters' lip-synching doesn't match as well in the Sicilian dub as in the English version.

<h2>Going back in time, in more ways than one</h2> While the narrative and characters are compelling, the gameplay of The Old Country feels like it belongs to the late 2000s or early 2010s, lacking depth. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617527" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617527"><img alt="A screenshot of Mafia: The Old Country gameplay shows a man in the foreground pointing a rifle at another man who is antagonistically approaching him in a sun-dappled Sicilian environment." class="size-full wp-image-2000617527 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491960512054713.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617527">© 2K</figcaption></figure> The game features typical stealth sequences reminiscent of those in The Last of Us. You sneak up on enemies and choke them out. Enzo has an "instinct mode" that allows him to see enemies through walls. The unintelligent enemy AI doesn't help these sections, as they easily fall for the coins and bottles Enzo throws as distractions. For a game with revolutionary themes, the stealth mechanics are anything but. To complicate matters, some stealth sections result in an instant game over if you get caught, which is never enjoyable.

Then, there are the gunfights, and while the guns are adequate, they don't stand out. You have pistols, rifles, and shotguns to choose from—no rocket launchers or C4 charges like in Mafia III to make things explosive. The gunplay is similar to typical cover shooters like Uncharted, where you duck in and out of cover to eliminate enemies. Occasionally, an enemy may approach, or a grenade may be thrown to flush you out, but these are hardly challenging and don't lead to exciting shootouts, even on Hard difficulty. Finally, there are the knife fights, usually reserved for cinematic moments against major antagonists. Though intended to be dramatic confrontations, they often feel underwhelming, involving waiting for the boss to strike, then parrying and slashing back. I frequently used this strategy to win. You can also break your opponent's guard, but the spacing often felt off. During the final boss fight, my guard break attack would connect even with significant distance between us. Still, I accepted those victories as I just wanted to finish the encounter. <div class="review-box not-prose font-body"> <div class="mx-auto max-w-[1024px]"> <div class="flex flex-col sm:flex-row gap-4 bg-accent text-white"> <figure class="flex-none sm:w-3/5"> <img alt="A man strides with intent (and, importantly, a knife in his right hand) toward other men brandishing knives and guns." class="w-full h-auto" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283491980997035449.jpg" width="1920"/> </figure> <div class="flex-1 text-center self-center"> <div class="text-center py-2"> Multiplatform </div> Mafia: The Old Country </div> </div> <div class="p-3 grid grid-cols-1 sm:grid-cols-2 sm:gap-4 bg-neutral-100"> <ul> <li class="pb-3"> BACK-OF-THE-BOX QUOTE “A deal you probably can refuse.” </li> <li class="pb-3"> TYPE OF GAME Third-person narrative-driven action-adventure. </li> <li class="pb-3"> LIKED Good story, great characters, culturally authentic. </li> <li class="pb-3"> DISLIKED Dated gameplay, half-assed open world. </li> </ul><ul> <li class="pb-3"> DEVELOPER Hangar 13 </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLATFORMS PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S (played) </li> <li class="pb-3"> RELEASE DATE August 8, 2025 </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLAYED About 18 hours. Cleared the game on hard difficulty. Found a good amount of collectibles and unlocked most chapter-specific achievements. </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> Mafia: The Old Country shares similarities with the first Mafia game, including a limited open world that players can explore between main objectives or in a "Free Roam" mode. The main issue with this option is that, while there are landmarks to photograph, there's little else to do besides collect items. There are no side quests or mini-games. This is surprising given that Mafia III was criticized for its open-world bloat. While Mafia: The Old Country's streamlined approach is appreciated, the open world feels unnecessary. The game would have been better served by adopting a linear structure similar to Max Payne 3-style mission design, eliminating the option to explore its lifeless world entirely. Mafia: The Old Country's story was engaging enough to keep me invested, with its authentic portrayal of 1900s Sicily and its remarkable characters. It's unfortunate, though, that while the narrative traveled back in time for its setting, the gameplay mechanics did as well.
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Mafia: The Old Country: The Kotaku Review

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Oh, thank goodness! Alien: Earth, Disney's high-budget TV series set just before the original Alien film, is absolutely brilliant. Showrunner, writer, and director Noah Hawley has crafted something truly exceptional: a series that feels deeply rooted in the essence of Ridley Scott's initial vision, yet pulsates with the relentless excitement of James Cameron’s Aliens sequel. Importantly, unlike every other film in the franchise since the first two, it remembers that this is a narrative about the souls of the characters, not just the events that befall them. Here are my reflections on the initial two episodes. Alien: Earth makes a particularly intriguing opening choice. One might assume, given how the Alien sequels have struggled under the shadow of the first two films, that Hawley would want to immediately imprint his own signature on the series. As the creator of the remarkable TV series Fargo and Legion, his unique approach would seem the smart move to emphasize from the start. Yet, a far bolder decision is made. The opening minutes of Alien: Earth are an incredible homage to Scott’s style, featuring a cynical, weary crew bantering around a table, teasing, mocking, and talking over one another. Tensions and relationships are immediately established for the beleaguered crew that you know are destined to meet their end as their research vessel, laden with multiple alien specimens, crash-lands on Earth. It all looks and breathes like a quintessential piece of 1970s science fiction. In achieving this, the show immediately feels right. This is the Alien we cherish, not the oddly incongruous blandness of Covenant or the disastrous missteps of Alien 3 and Alien Resurrection. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617445" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617445"><img alt="The crew of the doomed ship chat at the table." class="size-full wp-image-2000617445 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="854" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492065621312953.jpg" width="1519"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617445">© FX / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is then starkly contrasted by the events on Earth. While the crashing vessel, the Maginot, is owned and operated by the Weyland-Yutani corporation, it crashes into a towering city owned by another company called Prodigy. As revealed in the show’s initial shipboard banter, Earth in 2120 is dominated by four corporations, soon to be five. We learn that Weyland-Yutani controls North and South America, but we’re yet to be informed about the rest–though we're swiftly introduced to the emerging powerhouse, Prodigy. Founded by the youngest-ever trillionaire, Boy Kavalier (Samuel Blenkin), Prodigy owns at least a large city in New Siam and a vast research island, poised for a major breakthrough regarding synthetics—the androids with the gooey white blood from the original films. Kavalier has developed a method to transfer the consciousness of pre-teen children into synth bodies, and as we join the facility on Neverland Island, Kavalier is preparing to test this for the first time, transferring the mind of terminal cancer patient Marcy Hermit (Florence Bensberg) into an adult synth body, where she renames herself Wendy (Sydney Chandler).

And yes, let’s pause to address all this Peter Pan business. Eeehhh, this TV show is about as close to perfect as you could hope for, but if I had to critique something, it would be this. It’s exceedingly heavy-handed (indeed, all the names are rather painfully on-the-nose—“Kavalier” for our move-fast-break-things trillionaire, “Hermit” for our girl about to transition into a new shell…), to the point where clips of the Disney cartoon are repeatedly shown and we even get Kavalier reading aloud from the book. She’s Wendy, it’s Neverland… goodness, we understand. They’re children who get to live forever, I suppose? Except, of course, the point of the book is they remain children, but here they’re intended to mature into adults. It feels quite cumbersome. But honestly, that’s my only grievance. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617447" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617447"><img alt="Marcy and Wendy's bodies lie next to each other." class="size-full wp-image-2000617447 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="849" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492088773871033.jpg" width="1890"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617447">© FX / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Prodigy quickly advances with transferring a number of terminally ill children into adult bodies, all now under the mentorship of the more traditional synthetic Kirsh (Timothy Olyphant), just moments before the Maginot crashes into the base of two skyscrapers in Prodigy City. A search and rescue team of Prodigy employees is immediately dispatched, including a medic who happens to be Joe Hermit (Alex Lawther), brother to Wendy. And, of course, the alien specimens have escaped. What ensues is a lot of excellent, classic Alien action, with terrified humans armed with guns navigating dimly lit corridors likely housing monsters. It’s particularly enjoyable here because so much remains unknown. We know the Maginot was carrying Xenomorphs in various stages, from egg to Facehugger to full-grown Xenomorph XX121s, but we’re also aware there’s some sort of eyeball-with-tentacles creature in there, along with other alien species we’ve never encountered before. And while we’re left with no doubt that the Xeno is still the most formidable of the bunch, none of them seems remotely friendly.

But this is heightened by the show’s central, most disturbing and chilling aspect: some super-wealthy 20-something just placed the minds of a group of 10 to 12-year-olds into super-powered adult bodies, then sent them into danger. <aside class="pullquote text-center">Alien: Earth feels like the final obliteration of any distinction between film and television.</aside> The body-swap between child and adult is a beloved trope, almost always played for laughs. From Big to Freaky Friday, the concept is mined for humor (even if you do encounter something as unsettling as Big‘s 13-year-old boy losing his virginity to an adult woman). So when you first see Marcy become Wendy, there’s that jovial sense to it. Firstly, she’s no longer destined to die as a just-turned-12-year-old, and that’s wonderful, but also you’ve got an adult actor behaving like a kid. At one point she grabs her breasts and declares how weird they are, how they move while she’s running. The program is clearly playing with those body-swap tropes, telling us how delightful this all is. After several of the kids have been placed into adult synth bodies, there’s a delightful scene where they’re all sitting around chatting in a common area, a room full of adult actors moving and talking like children. Jonathan Ajayi particularly shines in this, his leg movements strikingly familiar to anyone with a child with ADHD, yet it’s all delivered without exaggeration. It feels wrong because body-swaps always feel wrong, but we’re being reassured of how right it is throughout.

But it’s so wrong! This isn’t being done with families around them or friends from their previous lives, and they certainly lack appropriate adult supervision or counseling. They’re experiments, their former terminal diagnoses and separation from their families clearly designed to render them disposable should something go awry. Wendy’s determination to reunite with her older brother seems to test the adults, unsure whether to hinder it for the project’s secrecy, but ultimately driven to let it unfold purely for the test results. It’s grotesquely mercenary, and the second episode continually reminds us of this, as we witness these adult shells acting like utterly terrified children in the face of alien threats. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617448" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617448"><img alt="A Xenomorph jumps through the air over the medic." class="size-full wp-image-2000617448 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="852" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492103135167929.jpg" width="2039"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617448">© FX / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Almost everything is executed flawlessly. In fact, Alien: Earth feels like the final obliteration of any distinction between film and television, its massive-budget movie quality and ultra-widescreen format lending it a consistently cinematic feel. The only nod to traditional television is a peculiar flashback to Marcy’s childhood, which sticks out like a sore thumb amidst the rest of the format. It would be incredible to watch these weekly episodes on the big screen, and heaven knows, movie theaters could use the business.

What’s also thrilling is contemplating where this series might venture next. The claustrophobic events within the ruined ship and destroyed apartments dominate the second episode, but it’s evident that it will soon head outdoors. There’s surely no chance of containing this incident, and it’s going to be extraordinary to see how the corporations handle the outbreak. Another aspect to consider is the words from the first episode’s opening text. In the future, the race for immortality will come in three forms: <blockquote>Cybernetically enhanced humans: Cyborgs Artificially intelligent beings: Synths and Synthetic beings downloaded with human consciousness: Hybrids</blockquote> While the series has already introduced all three, and we witness the terrifying capabilities of Weyland-Yutani cyborg Morrow (Babou Ceesay), there’s yet to be any indication of how the various corporations intend to ensure their creations become the dominant force. Surely, that is yet to come. In Alien: Earth, Hawley and his team have accomplished something that seemed impossible for the last 40 years—merging the terror of Alien with the thrill of Aliens, while maintaining a human-centered narrative. Not even Ridley Scott could achieve this with his two somber prequels. But in FX’s TV series, it’s all there, with an amazing eight more hours to look forward to.
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Alien: Earth Is Masterful, Deeply Unsettling Television

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The classic Metroidvania style functions like this: As you acquire new skills, new areas become accessible. That distant platform that seems impossible to reach? Return once you've mastered the double-jump. Öoo employs this same approach, but with a twist: when revisiting previous levels, you discover that your imagination was the only barrier. The true magic was within you all along. Öoo is a puzzle-platformer where you play as an adorable Kawaii caterpillar with bomb segments as its body. Initially, you control only the head, moving left and right. To jump, Öoo (presumably its name) places a bomb and sits on it as it detonates. To leap rightward, position a bomb and stand on its right side before it explodes. This seemingly simple mechanic allows you to explore an expanding map, occasionally collecting yellow fly-like creatures and delivering them to large frogs that block your path. This concept works exceptionally well! It's a fresh take on platform gaming, where jumping involves explosions, and you continually discover innovative methods to utilize this technique as puzzles demand. It becomes even more intriguing with the introduction of a second bomb. If this piques your interest, I highly recommend stopping here and purchasing it. It’s only $8, and it's one of my top games of the year. The rest of this article aims to convince others of its brilliance while providing slightly more insight than I had when I first played, after completing its remarkable demo earlier this year. <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jXQmJBsrciI?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Öooo - Official Short Trailer" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jXQmJBsrciI?feature=oembed" title="Öooo - Official Short Trailer" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> In the game, you plant a bomb with A (and by default sit atop it) and detonate it with X. Placing two bombs allows you to explode them in the order they were placed. Stack two with yourself at the top, and you’ve created a kind of double-jump. Sit on one while the other propels you sideways...well, these are the types of strategies you must uncover.

When the Öoo demo was released earlier this year, it hinted that a second bomb would be acquired early in the game, leading some to anticipate the addition of a third and fourth soon after. I'm pleased to report that’s not the case, or I fear one of the most meticulously crafted puzzle-platformers I’ve ever encountered might have become overly complex. While experimenting with four different bombs exploding in sequence sounds intriguing, identifying the correct combination for a puzzle would be daunting. Sticking with two bombs, but with endless imaginative uses, showcases incredible ingenuity. In fact, you only have two bombs until the game’s conclusion, yet you constantly learn new ways to use them. This is crucial. If the game revolved around acquiring more bomb segments or new abilities, it would resemble a traditional Metroidvania. But it doesn't. You receive the second bomb about half an hour in, and that's it. So, why does Öoo still feel like a Metroidvania? Because it’s designed with such brilliance and creativity. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000616906" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000616906"><img alt="Ooo is about to feed a fly to a frog." class="size-full wp-image-2000616906 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1075" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492189806265785.jpg" width="1911"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000616906">©Nama Takahashi / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> From the outset, you’ll find areas beyond your reach. You continue in a different direction, facing increasingly complex puzzles that challenge you to think creatively about your tools. Eventually, you’ll encounter a dead end in one of the game’s teleport rooms, leaving you with the option to return to a part of the map with an incomplete path. It’ll be one of those previously unreachable areas. But now, you can access it. Not because of a new skill, but because you can approach the puzzle differently. This experience is unparalleled. It’s truly remarkable!

That was a lengthy but essential explanation for one point, so let’s explore what else makes Öoo exceptional. This is the successor to developer Nama Takahashi’s ElecHead, a fantastic platform-puzzler, sharing its retro aesthetic but with a more vibrant color scheme. Beautiful looping animations make levels feel lively, and Öoo itself is full of character, complete with falling asleep and snoring when idle. And don’t overlook that the game is named Öoo because it perfectly resembles the character. Another significant feature of Öoo is its respect for your time. Solving puzzles requires experimentation and risk-taking. There are multiple ways to die, but no severe penalty. Checkpoint flags are abundant, so you’re never forced to retrace your steps mindlessly. The only times you might be more than a screen away are when backtracking isn’t possible, meaning every detail has been considered, and you won’t be frustratingly trapped. If a puzzle completely stumps you, Takahashi has recorded a video of him completing the entire game, which you can easily navigate to find where you’re stuck. At that point, you may lament not figuring it out yourself. As mentioned, this game provides everything you need from the beginning. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000616907" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000616907"><img alt="A teleport room." class="size-full wp-image-2000616907 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1077" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492213025932729.jpg" width="1915"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000616907">©Nama Takahashi / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Don’t worry when you see the walkthrough video is only 45 minutes long. This is the game’s creator, and in reality, you’ll spend at least three or four hours reaching the end credits. And what a wonderful few hours those are! This game is delightful and cleverly crafted. Öoo is now available on PC for $8.
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In This Stunning Metroidvania, You’re Only Held Back By Your Own Imagination

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Dear reader, can I ask for your trust? Perhaps that's a bit too general. How about this: do you trust Kotaku to wholeheartedly recommend a game, even if the details are shrouded in mystery? and Roger (yes, that’s the official styling) is undeniably one of the standout games of 2025. Revealing its premise would spoil the entire experience, so I'll focus on everything else surrounding it. and Roger is a narrative-driven adventure game available on both Switch and PC. It spans just an hour and brings to mind other narrative puzzle games like 2018’s Florence. The game delivers a powerful emotional experience, mainly through its puzzle-based mechanics. Its controls are somewhat awkward, akin to the QWOP of story-driven adventure games, but upon completion, its brilliance becomes evident. Priced at just $5, it’s comparable to a Starbucks drink, and you can finish it during your lunch break. The magic of those 60 minutes and its seamless blend of game design and storytelling cannot be overstated. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614573" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614573"><img alt="A man and a woman are showing driving in a car" class="wp-image-2000614573 size-full cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492346035701177.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614573">©TearyHand Studio</figcaption></figure> I hope the brief duration and low cost are enough to entice you to think, “Why not?” and download it on your PC or Switch. However, I understand that times are challenging, and not everyone wants to make a blind purchase. Therefore, a spoiler warning follows, after which I’ll dive into the revelations of and Roger. If you're already convinced, revisit this review later. If you need a bit more persuasion, please continue reading.

<img alt="Spoiler Warning" class="alignnone wp-image-2000614569 size-full" decoding="async" height="88" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492367644755385.png" width="800"/>   <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0Bq7um6BTvU?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title='"andRoger" 2ndTrailer' width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0Bq7um6BTvU?feature=oembed" title='"andRoger" 2ndTrailer' width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> and Roger unfolds the tale of a married couple in their later years. The wife is battling a severe case of dementia, transforming routine tasks into monumental challenges. In and Roger, many tasks are executed via unmarked buttons, requiring you to memorize their functions to perform actions in the correct order. For instance, a simple hand-washing scene involves turning on the water, applying soap, and scrubbing—each mapped to different buttons that you must remember and use in sequence. The game turns every action into a disorienting task, mirroring the protagonist's struggle to maintain a semblance of normalcy with her devoted husband. The gradual revelation of the protagonist’s illness brings clarity, transforming the narrative. In certain scenes, she appears as a child, fearful of a man claiming a long-standing presence in her home. Unrecognizable to her, this man is her husband, striving to care for her and provide comfort during her final years. If you shy away from challenges and obstacles, and Roger may not be for you. However, its execution is so masterful that I must encourage you to give it a shot. With just a $5 investment and a one-hour commitment, what do you really have to lose?
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One Of 2025’s Most Special, Emotional Games Is $5 And Will Take You An Hour To Finish

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Fretless – The Wrath of Riffson is a genre-blending anomaly that manages to work remarkably well. As a turn-based deck-building rhythm game crafted by musicians who truly appreciate the art, it fills a niche that many straightforward rhythm games miss. Much like Hi-Fi Rush before it, Fretless seamlessly combines gameplay mechanics with musical elements, making it accessible for those with less rhythmic prowess, yet cleverly rewarding for those with a musical background. It proudly draws inspiration from genre giants like Slay the Spire and Balatro, but it's the dedication to the music underlying each mechanic that elevates it above other deck builders. Music is the lifeblood of Fretless. Every pixel in its retro-inspired world resonates with melodies and percussion. Wandering through a flower garden releases a series of soothing notes, akin to brushing your hands through a set of hanging bells. Rob, the silent yet expressive musician protagonist, confronts monsters inspired by instruments, each using the game's diverse soundscape to impede his journey to the Battle of the Bands. The only way to counter this musical onslaught is by assembling your own setlist, the essence of its deck-building concept: crafting music with your instruments. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283173" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283173"><img alt="Screenshot: Ritual Studios / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283173 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492560616293817.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283173">Screenshot: Ritual Studios / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Rob can wield one of four instruments: an acoustic guitar, a bass, a synthesizer, and an eight-string electric guitar. Each instrument comes with a unique set of "riffs" forming a deck, and although you can customize your loadout, each has a distinctive core mechanic that makes them notably different. The bass features a "slap" meter that can be strategically increased to amplify attacks significantly. The synthesizer, quickly becoming my favorite, utilizes "status FX" to multiply damage, enabling you to defeat powerful bosses in just a turn or two if played correctly. The eight-string electric is perhaps the most challenging but rewarding to master, with its risk-reward playstyle that sacrifices your health for powerful attacks, ultimately summoning a formidable ally to sway the battle in your favor.

Each instrument demands a different strategy and a deep understanding of how various cards interact for effective use. There’s a surprising level of detail in each deck, and every attack, spell, and status FX you employ includes a timed rhythm element that, if executed well, enhances their effectiveness. Having played games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which also integrated timing into its turn-based battles but often poorly communicated dodge and parry windows, it was refreshing to experience Fretless, where blocking and power-boosting are tied directly to the music's rhythm. After hours with the synthesizer, its riffs became second nature, enabling me to deliver a symphony of damage effortlessly. The rhythm elements are just one part of optimizing a deck. Each turn, you can play up to three cards with varying (or repeated) effects, each aligning with an instrument’s playstyle. The synthesizer, for example, has cards that apply status FX, followed by damage cards that increase output if an enemy is afflicted by certain conditions. Strategically sequencing these cards to chain their effects is the crux of its deck-building. Each turn, you draw new cards and must adapt to what you have, determining the difference between a wasted turn and a decisive victory. You begin Fretless with the acoustic guitar, which with its damage-dealing and shield-building cards, lulls you into a false sense of simplicity, only for subsequent instruments to explore the game’s deep mechanics in surprising ways. <div class="review-box not-prose font-body full-bleed"> <div class="mx-auto max-w-[1024px]"> <div class="flex flex-col sm:flex-row gap-4 bg-accent text-white"> <figure class="flex-none sm:w-3/5"> <img alt="" class="w-full h-auto" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492581554259385.jpg" width="1920"/> </figure> <div class="flex-1 text-center self-center"> <div class="text-center py-2"> PC </div> Fretless - The Wrath of Riffson </div> </div> <div class="p-3 grid grid-cols-1 sm:grid-cols-2 sm:gap-4 bg-neutral-100"> <ul> <li class="pb-3"> BACK-OF-THE-BOX QUOTE *The sound of a rockstar breaking a guitar on stage* </li> <li class="pb-3"> TYPE OF GAME Turn-based deck-building RPG with rhythm elements. </li> <li class="pb-3"> LIKED A world and battle system built upon a banger soundtrack. </li> <li class="pb-3"> DISLIKED The occasional odd bug here and there. </li> </ul><ul> <li class="pb-3"> DEVELOPER Ritual Studios </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLATFORMS PC </li> <li class="pb-3"> RELEASE DATE July 17, 2025 </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLAYED ~9 hours </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> All of this would be incomplete without Fretless’ outstanding, varied soundtrack. Rob’s choice of instrument dictates the battle music for many encounters, while bosses bring their unique sounds. Fretless encompasses an array of genres, from the electronic beats of the synthesizer to the distorted heavy metal of the eight-string guitar. Yet, in quieter moments, it transitions into a relaxing, nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of retro RPGs that inspired its visual style. Rather than relying on familiar licensed tracks, Fretless crafts distinct sonic identities, each deeply embedded in its world and battles. While the card-battling system is deep, as a former musician, I find Fretless shines brightest when it embraces its passion for music, building its universe around a shared understanding of musical composition. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283175" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283175"><img alt="Screenshot: Ritual Studios / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283175 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492611451258297.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283175">Screenshot: Ritual Studios / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Fretless is teeming with clever worldbuilding puns tied to its musical theme. It cleverly twists traditional RPG elements with a musical flair. Inns, where you recover health, feature a sign with a quarter rest, symbolizing rest. Equipment loadouts consist of mods like pedals, pickups, and strings for your instruments. It’s as if the entire world is infused with musicality, a charming theme that rekindled my passion for musical creation, a passion I sometimes fear I've lost. Music is a constant in my life. I collaborate with a large musical group weekly in New York City. Yet, after shifting from a professional music career to writing about video games a decade ago, composing music became a background activity in my daily life. Occasionally, I discover a new song, an artist releases a fresh album, or I attend a live performance, and my musical inclinations are reignited. Fretless evoked that same feeling, all within the framework of a well-designed deck builder.  
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This Short And Sweet RPG Spins Up A Beautiful Deckbuilding Melody

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I’ve spent over 12 hours immersed in MindsEye, the latest semi-open-world action game from ex-Grand Theft Auto producer Leslie Benzies. I completed it, trudging through its disappointing ending after enduring numerous bugs, performance issues, and tedious phone calls. Still, if you asked, “Who is MindsEye for?” I’d be at a loss. Perhaps it’s for those fascinated by squandered resources and talent? MindsEye is too linear to excel as an open-world game, yet too expansive and dull to succeed as a fast-paced action game. It’s a medley of ideas—some intriguing, many flawed—shaped into something resembling games you’ve played but lacking their charm. It’s bad in the worst way, not in a bold, memorable failure but as an expensive, mediocre, and forgettable endeavor. <h2>So, what is MindsEye?</h2> In MindsEye, you step into the shoes of Jacob Diaz, a former soldier with a peculiar cybernetic brain implant. During a mission gone wrong, many perish, and Diaz and his implant are largely blamed. Years later, he joins Silva Corp, the company behind the implant, located in Redrock City, a Las Vegas-like setting. Diaz seeks answers from Silva Corp, leading to a tangled plot involving AI, a malevolent general, wealthy tech moguls, interdimensional beings, and super robots.

This might sound thrilling or exciting, yet MindsEye manages to transform this wild plot into one of the dullest experiences I’ve had in years. <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_185sXGmiok?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="MindsEye - Official Gameplay Overview Trailer" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_185sXGmiok?feature=oembed" title="MindsEye - Official Gameplay Overview Trailer" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> What occupied most of my time in MindsEye? It wasn’t engaging in the game’s lackluster cover-based combat, reminiscent of GTA V. Nor was it thrilling chase scenes against police or robots. Instead, about 60% of the game involves driving to locations and chatting about past, current, and future events. It’s a tedious method for delivering exposition and fleshing out the world. True, GTA games often include drive-and-talk sequences, but they’re brief and interspersed within explosive missions in interactive worlds. Conversely, in MindsEye, you can’t even commandeer random vehicles during missions. When my car got stuck on a rock, I tried to take a parked car. No luck. I shot a car, and the driver fled, but I still couldn’t get in. Meanwhile, a character on the phone criticized my delay in reaching the next mundane cutscene.

<h2>A beautiful but boring playground</h2> Credit to developer Build A Rocket Boy: MindsEye is visually stunning. The character models are top-notch, textures are impressive, and the lighting is realistic in some areas. Although performance suffers, especially with multiple cars on screen, Redrock City is well-rendered. During the 12- to 15-hour campaign, I observed campers, abandoned sites, police aiding accident victims, and more. Unfortunately, there’s little incentive to explore the city in MindsEye. You can’t even engage with police to raise a wanted level. It’s a beautifully crafted playground as interactive as a Las Vegas photo on your phone. <div class="review-box not-prose font-body full-bleed"> <div class="mx-auto max-w-[1024px]"> <div class="flex flex-col sm:flex-row gap-4 bg-accent text-white"> <figure class="flex-none sm:w-3/5"> <img alt="" class="w-full h-auto" decoding="async" height="199" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492743706052025.jpg" width="353"/> </figure> <div class="flex-1 text-center self-center"> <div class="text-center py-2"> Multiplatform </div> MindsEye </div> </div> <div class="p-3 grid grid-cols-1 sm:grid-cols-2 sm:gap-4 bg-neutral-100"> <ul> <li class="pb-3"> BACK OF THE BOX QUOTE "Well, you gotta play something while waiting for GTA 6?" </li> <li class="pb-3"> TYPE OF GAME Semi-open action-adventure game with weird minigames and content creation tools. </li> <li class="pb-3"> LIKED Redrock City looks nice, character models are cool, it's not very long. </li> <li class="pb-3"> DISLIKED Combat is dull, driving is a chore, too many phone calls, open world is wasted, very buggy. </li> </ul><ul> <li class="pb-3"> DEVELOPER Build A Rocket Boy </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLATFORMS PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC </li> <li class="pb-3"> RELEASE DATE June 10, 2025 </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLAYED Around 14 hours. Finished main campaign. Checked out open-world mode. </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> Upon completing MindsEye, you’re treated to a final cutscene that resolves none of the game’s many plot threads, followed by a post-credits scene that—considering the poor reviews and reported layoffs—feels overly optimistic. Yes, more MindsEye content is anticipated…

Indeed, since the game includes (or will include) user-generated missions set in Redrock City using MindsEye’s assets. The idea is for PC players to create new missions and game types, with the developers selecting the best to share. For now, it’s missions from the MindsEye team, appearing in the campaign, offering brief diversions from driving and chatting to engage in mercenary missions or confront police. I found these missions unappealing, and I doubt many fans will create future content for me. <h2>Here’s your reward: A bad open world</h2> Completing MindsEye unlocks an open-world mode to explore Redrock City freely. However, you’re stuck as a peculiar character in a gas mask, navigating a city filled with mundane, generic missions. It feels like a last-minute addition, anticipating complaints about the absence of an open-world mode.

The mode’s haphazard nature is evident: your character mimics Jacob’s sounds, and there’s no map when pausing. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000000648" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000000648"><img alt="Screenshot: Build A Rocket Boy / Redbullcola / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000000648 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283492763670939065.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000000648">Screenshot: Build A Rocket Boy / Redbullcola / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> What do you do in this mode? Mainly, you drive to marked spots, defeat 20 enemies, retrieve an item, and return it. Or, you race through 40 checkpoints in overly long races. These missions lack voice acting, new music, or features. It feels like playing an unfinished mod of MindsEye. This is your reward for completing the game. Congratulations! You can drive through a dull city with no radio and uninspired missions. You still can’t steal most cars, being stuck with a white hatchback. As I mentioned at the start, I’m clueless about the target audience for this game, and I doubt it will find one. Maybe after updates, MindsEye will run smoother with fewer bugs. But that won’t make it any less dull, bland, and forgettable. MindsEye is a bad game, not even bad enough to be entertaining. It’s just bad, likely to fade into obscurity, only recalled briefly when its servers shut down unceremoniously. .
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MindsEye Is An Incredibly Boring And Confusing Mess

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When I initially learned about the genuinely real product Sprite + Tea, my curiosity was piqued. I have a fondness for tea. I enjoy Sprite. In fact, Sprite ranks as one of my top soft drinks. But would this peculiar combination succeed? Could it become my preferred beverage during a sweltering Summer day? Sadly, no. It’s dreadful. My journey with Sprite + Tea began in May when I stumbled upon an article headline discussing this novel flavor blend. “That sounds intriguing,” I mused. While on a grocery run, I requested my wife to stop by a Quick Trip so I could grab a bottle of Sprite + Tea. Upon examining the bottle, my initial reaction was negative. The brownish liquid inside appeared unappealing against the green packaging. Worse still, the Sprite + Tea bottle features yellow accents, and alongside the brown, it resembles an unpleasant joke about bodily functions. It looks like a soda I might encounter in Grand Theft Auto 6. Back in the car, I opened the bottle and was greeted by the familiar scent of lemon-lime Sprite. However, there was an additional, unusual aroma mingling with the scent that escaped from the bottle. In hindsight, it was a warning I should have taken seriously. But alas, I’m reckless. I’m defiant. I’m foolish.

<div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GHFuDvLxtvQ?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Granny | Sprite + Tea" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GHFuDvLxtvQ?feature=oembed" title="Granny | Sprite + Tea" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> The first sip of Sprite + Tea initially resembled the taste of Sprite. Then, moments later, it morphed into the most unpleasant tea I’d ever tasted. Afterward, it reverted to tasting like Sprite, only for the disagreeable, artificial tea flavor to reemerge. This peculiar back-and-forth occurred several times in my mouth before I was ultimately left with a nauseatingly sweet aftertaste. “Is it any good?” my wife inquired. I shook my head vigorously, exclaiming something akin to, “Oh, god, it’s terrible.” She chuckled. A strange reaction to witnessing your spouse ingest something so unpalatable. Then she took a sip and soon ceased laughing. “That’s dreadful!” After a few more attempts, I was convinced that I truly despised Sprite + Tea. It upset my stomach and infuriated me as well. Not only did it taste awful, but even the name and packaging seemed so uninspired. Sprite + Tea? Seriously, that’s the best they could come up with? I gave Sprite + Tea another shot recently, during an exceptionally hot day. I hoped that might improve the experience. It didn’t. This drink is atrocious. It’s genuinely really atrocious. It should be banned from shelves. Steer clear at all costs. Simply purchase regular Sprite. It’s delightful. Plus, it doesn’t resemble a bottle of something unsavory. .  
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Sprite + Tea Review: This Crap Needs To Be Outlawed

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Many games are set in America, but few truly capture the essence of being American. This isn't about lacking patriotism or the absence of red, white, and blue motifs. While numerous games may incorporate the country's landmarks, stars, and cities, and even touch upon its politics, they often fail to delve into the core of American culture. South of Midnight, a fresh Xbox action-platformer available now, stands out in this regard. Created by Compulsion Games, South of Midnight intricately weaves elements of American culture, Southern myths, and tales in a manner rarely seen in games. It's not all rosy; much of it is steeped in sorrow and hardship. This is the stark reality of American history. South of Midnight doesn't shy away from these truths. Instead, it brings to the forefront issues of race, slavery, poverty, generational trauma, and mortality. Due to its rich, intricate, and frequently painful history, the South has cultivated a distinctive and beautiful folkloric tapestry of tall tales, heroes, and monsters. South of Midnight allows you to weave and unravel this tapestry through a 12-13 hour single-player journey set in a mystical yet grounded version of the American South. In South of Midnight, you step into the shoes of a young Black woman named Hazel Flood. She is an accomplished athlete with a mother deeply devoted to aiding abused children. This dedication causes some tension between them, yet Hazel remains deeply caring towards her mother. When a hurricane sweeps their trailer down the river, Hazel pursues it, finding herself in a peculiar and magical iteration of the South, filled with sinister ghostly creatures known as haints, who linger in our realm after enduring great suffering.

<div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V7vBVSeW3u4?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="South of Midnight - Launch Trailer" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V7vBVSeW3u4?feature=oembed" title="South of Midnight - Launch Trailer" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> Fortunately, early in the game, you discover that Hazel possesses a unique gift. She is a Weaver, someone capable of perceiving the threads of reality and manipulating space and time using magical tools like sewing needles. The previous Weaver was a former slave who aided others in escaping to freedom. Throughout the game, Hazel explores her powers and her connection to the world through this woman's story and her mission to help a family escape slavery. Being a video game, Hazel's newfound weaving abilities also allow her to excel in combat, perform double jumps, and solve puzzles. However, this is where South of Midnight starts to fray a bit. The game's combat takes place in confined, arena-like spaces where enemies spawn until defeated, allowing you to "pop" a cursed segment of the world and escape the encounter. This sequence repeats often in South of Midnight, quickly becoming monotonous, partly because each battle feels similar and the combat is adequate but not exceptional. You can dodge, charge attacks, and have access to a stun and some upgrades. If you've played a video game in the past decade, this won't feel particularly thrilling or unique. It's not terrible, just somewhat stale and arguably the weakest element of South of Midnight.

Hazel's Weaver abilities become more engaging during platforming and puzzle-solving segments, and I wish these elements were more prevalent in the game, as opposed to the numerous arenas you must battle through to reach the finale, which is another large combat arena that left me feeling discontented. <div class="review-box not-prose font-body full-bleed"> <div class="mx-auto max-w-[1024px]"> <div class="flex flex-col sm:flex-row gap-4 bg-accent text-white"> <figure class="flex-none sm:w-3/5"> <img alt="" class="w-full h-auto" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283493413100193209.jpg" width="1920"/> </figure> <div class="flex-1 text-center self-center"> <div class="text-center py-2"> Multiplatform </div> South of Midnight </div> </div> <div class="p-3 grid grid-cols-1 sm:grid-cols-2 sm:gap-4 bg-neutral-100"> <ul> <li class="pb-3"> BACK OF THE BOX QUOTE "Save your mother while learning that monsters and magic are real!" </li> <li class="pb-3"> TYPE OF GAME Linear third-person action-platformer with RPG-like upgrades. </li> <li class="pb-3"> LIKED The world, visuals, music, writing, main character, creatures and critters. </li> <li class="pb-3"> DISLIKED Repetitive combat encounters, early levels aren’t as good as later ones. </li> </ul><ul> <li class="pb-3"> DEVELOPER Compulsion Games </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLATFORMS Xbox Series X/S (Played), PC </li> <li class="pb-3"> RELEASE DATE April 8 (Early access April 3) </li> <li class="pb-3"> PLAYED About 13 hours. Finished it. </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> Ultimately, here's the thing: despite the combat being merely adequate, the rest of the game is so impressive that I'm willing to overlook the less exciting parts.

The world of South of Midnight is stunningly crafted. The stop-motion-like animations of characters and creatures enhance the painted, hand-crafted aesthetic of each level. Every location in South of Midnight is meticulously detailed, adorned with small touches like distant animals or the sound of cicadas, creating a lively, stylized portrayal of the deep South. And it's not just swamps. South of Midnight offers a diverse range of settings, from unsavory places like a town inundated with pig waste-filled water to serene forests dotted with abandoned company towns and slave quarters. Throughout the journey, remarkable lighting distinguishes each area, from sunlit levels that feel hot and muggy to eerie swamps that are claustrophobic and shadowy. I spent considerable time in South of Midnight, capturing screenshots of every level, and I'm certain I'm not alone.

An integral part of South of Midnight's charm is its exceptional Southern music. Many levels feature songs with lyrics directly tied to the mythical or supernatural entity or creature you're encountering, all rooted in authentic Southern folklore. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000003976" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000003976"><img alt="Screenshot: Xbox / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000003976 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283493427780257209.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000003976">Screenshot: Xbox / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Some songs, like a twangy Dolly Parton-esque tune about a colossal gator named Two-Toed Tom, lingered with me long after playing. These tracks range from country to blues to jazz, featuring banjos, acoustic guitars, lyrics about heaven and hell, and folk singers delivering sometimes melancholic allegories of the past. It's unlike any video game soundtrack I've heard this year, and it will remain with me long after I've moved on to other games.

South of Midnight is likely to be a game that some players might abandon after just a few hours. A significant reason will be that the combat doesn't particularly stand out. The initial levels, though visually stunning and accompanied by fantastic music, aren't as thrilling as what follows once the game grants you additional abilities, like a double jump. Yet, if you can persevere through these challenges, you'll uncover a remarkable and heartfelt journey through American history and Southern folklore, unlike any game I've played before. Much like the South itself, South of Midnight is a complex, messy, yet often beautiful and passionate experience worth exploring. .
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South Of Midnight: The Kotaku Review

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Netflix's newest venture into animated adaptations of video games takes a fresh approach to Devil May Cry, Capcom's iconic character action game series that debuted in 2001. Although the series acts as a reboot, allowing newcomers to start at the beginning, it remains deeply connected to its early 2000s roots. Watching the introduction set to Limp Bizkit’s 2000 nu metal hit “Rollin’” made me think, “Oh, this is targeted at divorced dads,” before I slowly realized that the things you enjoy as a child eventually become “divorced dad core.” Somehow, without me noticing, Devil May Cry has become “old,” and apparently, so have I. Despite the fact that Capcom's game franchise has been around for decades and arguably reached its peak with 2019’s Devil May Cry 5, Netflix’s eight-episode series feels very much like a product of the games’ original early-2000s era. Yes, its music choices, like Papa Roach’s “Last Resort”, are cheesy nods to the nu metal era and might not resonate with those unfamiliar with Dante's demon-slaying exploits, but those were the tracks that Devil May Cry fans were likely enjoying during the original trilogy’s PS2 days. After getting over my existential crisis, I appreciated how committed Netflix's adaptation is to its theme, even though it took some time to get accustomed to its complex, multi-season narrative. The essential elements of Devil May Cry are present. A younger, more agile version of Dante, portrayed by Johnny Yong Bosch (who voices his nephew Nero in the games), finds himself caught between two factions: a demon uprising led by a stylish White Rabbit and a demon-hunting government agency. The White Rabbit aims to dismantle the barrier between the human and demon worlds, allowing underworld devils to flood into the earth, and they require one of Dante’s only family heirlooms to achieve this. This iteration of Dante was orphaned at a young age and only knows the tales his mother shared about their origins. He is merely a simple demon hunter, unaware of why literal Hell is breaking loose around him.

<div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OlEqHXRrcpc?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Devil May Cry | Official Trailer | Netflix" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OlEqHXRrcpc?feature=oembed" title="Devil May Cry | Official Trailer | Netflix" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> Longtime fans know where this all leads, but I was surprised at just how intricate the show’s web of characters became by the season's end, given its relative simplicity in the games. Devil May Cry is a bustling show. Dante is at the core, but substantial portions of the eight episodes focus on the supporting cast, including fan-favorite Lady and her demon-hunting squad, as well as the fervent Vice President Baines, played by the late, great Kevin Conroy. The first half of the series is somewhat slow as it sets up the new scenario, and the core action only kicks in after the series reaches its midpoint, with several characters already having met their fate. By the second half, the show sheds much of its extraneous content and begins focusing on elements that Devil May Cry fans are likely seeking. This extensive setup seems designed to establish a foundation for future seasons, which the finale clearly hints at, but for a series known for achieving much with minimal resources, having such a large ensemble doesn't initially benefit it. Though it starts off a bit bloated, Devil May Cry remains an exhilarating experience even as it builds up to the core elements. Dante remains as stylish, spirited, and entertaining as ever, delivering thrilling action against demons. The action sequences in Devil May Cry are exquisite, seamlessly shifting from Dante’s trademark campy flair to intense hyperviolence in an instant. During the early episodes, it’s always a relief when the lengthy exposition is briefly interrupted by scenes of Dante confronting a group of unsuspecting foes who have no clue what the gun-wielding swordsman is capable of. Then, in the latter half of the season, all that violence gains context, adding new dramatic weight and even making it cathartic. The first half of Devil May Cry isn’t lackluster by any means, but the show takes more time than necessary to establish its rhythm. I’m curious about how non-fans will perceive this series; Netflix’s previous adaptations like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and Castlevania have attracted viewers who haven’t played the games, but Devil May Cry feels different, like a knowing nod and wink to those who were immersed in Dante’s demon-slaying adventures two decades ago. Will its nostalgic time capsule of edgy 2000s camp appeal to today’s teenagers? That’s not for me to say. But Devil May Cry certainly had me engaged, and now that it’s cleared the way for a more traditional Dante narrative next season, I’m ready for a second round.  
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Netflix’s Devil May Cry: The Kotaku Review

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In March 2022, the gaming community mourned the loss of Mohammad Fahmi, the brilliant mind behind the beloved narrative game Coffee Talk, who tragically passed away at the tender age of 32. Just three months earlier, he had unveiled his upcoming project, Afterlove EP, a rhythm-narrative adventure centered on coping with the loss of a loved one. Now, three years later, the dedicated team at Indonesian studio Pikselnesia has completed the game, delivering a poignant and timely experience. While Afterlove EP has its imperfections, its exploration of the subtle ways grief affects us and the unremarkable yet profound journey to rediscovering joy provides a quiet catharsis. Afterlove EP tells the story of Rama, the lead singer of an indie band, who loses a part of himself when his partner Cinta unexpectedly dies. He isolates himself for a year, and when he finally emerges from his solitude, he is surprised to find how much the world has continued without him. His bandmates, feeling trapped by his indecision, have sought new opportunities and career paths. Rama assumed everything would be as he left it a year ago. Afterlove EP spends considerable time highlighting that while grief deserves compassion, it doesn’t grant a free license to treat others poorly. Grief necessitates a measure of grace. No one navigates the loss of a loved one “perfectly,” and a narrative that critiques someone experiencing such pain can be challenging to execute without alienating the audience. Afterlove EP begins with Rama hearing the voice of Cinta, urging him to return to his music, but as the game progresses, it becomes evident that this voice is more a reflection of Rama’s internal dialogue than an echo of his lost love. Cinta’s voice is defensive and accusatory, prioritizing Rama’s feelings above others. As I immersed myself in Rama’s world, I grew increasingly frustrated with Cinta’s interjections. This wasn’t the compassionate person her grieving friends remembered; rather, it was someone who consistently sided with Rama, even when his friends had legitimate concerns.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000005538" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000005538"><img alt="Screenshot: Pikselnesia / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000005538 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283493931717494201.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000005538">Screenshot: Pikselnesia / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> While this disconnect between player and protagonist can be frustrating, it makes Rama’s growth and the story’s resolution even more rewarding. Initially, Rama is a sympathetic figure, mourning the loss of someone close to him. However, as Afterlove EP unfolds, it becomes clear that he is fixated on his own suffering, neglecting the impact of his absence on others. My empathy for him gradually transformed into alienation as I witnessed his relationships deteriorate, much like watching a friend helplessly spiral into despair. Afterlove EP offered numerous opportunities to confront friends who felt abandoned, but throughout the game, I struggled to find dialogue options that resembled an apology for my absence, my arrogant musician’s ego, or the selfish manner in which I prioritized my grief over theirs. I spent countless hours in Afterlove EP watching people who cared for each other nearly drift apart because Rama couldn’t see beyond his own pain. Every meeting with his bandmates felt like walking a tightrope, with the bond between them on the verge of breaking as Rama insisted on his own vision for the music and the band’s future, indifferent to the pain his friends experienced from losing a friend too. Rama can be a challenging character to steer in a dialogue-driven game, and Cinta’s reluctance to challenge him made me wary of her from the outset, but Afterlove EP’s dedication to its flawed hero and his dysfunctional friendships is central to its narrative. There’s a delicate balance between a sympathetic protagonist and a selfish one, and Afterlove EP maintains this balance skillfully. By the time I was deeply immersed in Rama’s story—witnessing his self-centeredness hurt those closest to him—I could only feel pity for him. He couldn’t see the forest for the trees, even when faced with numerous opportunities to form new connections and mend old ones. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000005539" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000005539"><img alt="Screenshot: Pikselnesia / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000005539 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283493947236419001.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000005539">Screenshot: Pikselnesia / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Afterlove EP feels reminiscent of a Persona game, where you manage relationships and daily activities, choosing whether to spend your limited time with friends, busking for money, attending therapy to address social discord, or potentially building a connection with a new romantic interest. I spent most days with Satria, a record store clerk who knew just how to provoke Rama. He’s part of a queer community that plays music in the local park. Rama hasn’t explored this aspect of himself, and self-discovery isn’t made easier by the persistent voice of his ex as he tries to forge new connections. However, Afterlove EP avoids the clichéd pitfalls I anticipated regarding Rama finding new love. Given Cinta’s hold on him, I feared that moving on might create a toxic mental love triangle, but the narrative unfolds differently. It was a refreshing change after Rama’s mourning had hindered his progress throughout much of the game. Grief is the foundation upon which Afterlove EP is built, yet it has more to convey than just this theme.

The thread weaving these relationships together is the indie rock music Rama performs. When not engaging in conversations with friends and potential partners, Afterlove EP becomes a rhythm game featuring catchy tracks that embody the spirit and determination of young artists yearning for a life beyond the confines of bars and kitchens. Even if I can’t comprehend the Indonesian lyrics, I sense the pain and longing in Rama’s voice and the powerful riffs beneath. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000005540" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000005540"><img alt="Screenshot: Pikselnesia / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000005540 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283493970472863161.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000005540">Screenshot: Pikselnesia / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> That being said, the rhythm segments in Afterlove EP are particularly challenging to follow. Each note descends along a track resembling sheet music, requiring you to press one of four directional buttons as it reaches the center of the screen. The presentation can be disorienting and frustrating—there’s an expectation that the directional inputs should correspond to the movement you’re witnessing. Instead, I frequently stumbled as notes approached from the right side of the screen but demanded an upward or downward press. Rhythm games, much like playing an actual instrument, are intended to be instinctual. With enough practice, actions become muscle memory ingrained in your fingertips. However, Afterlove EP’s minimalist UI design doesn’t effectively convey its mechanics, preventing it from achieving the intuitive rhythm necessary to become fully immersed in the music. Much like Rama’s music, Afterlove EP strikes a balance between the thorny and heartwarming aspects of love and loss. Given the challenges the Pikselnesia team faced to bring it to life, it’s no surprise that the game captures both the painful and beautiful facets of losing someone you care about. A significant portion of Afterlove EP guides you through the mundane process of reclaiming your identity. When parts of yourself are lost, finding new, positive, and healthy ways to fill that void isn’t always glamorous or enjoyable. It can be awkward and uncomfortable, requiring conversations with people who see through your façade and challenge you when you’re blind to your own faults. Afterlove EP is empathetic to the fact that none of us manage grief in a way that’s palatable to everyone around us, yet its most powerful moments come when it challenges you to rise above your struggles.  
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This Narrative Game About Love And Loss Is A Beautiful Tribute To Its Late Developer

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In 2023, Google collaborated with various PC manufacturers to introduce Chromebook Plus—a fresh line of its streamlined take on a laptop powered by its own OS. The concept was to deliver a more robust version of the Chromebook for those seeking that additional power. Just before Christmas, Google sent me a new Chromebook Plus from Acer to evaluate its gaming performance. After spending a few weeks with it, I'm pleased to say that it's a reliable laptop that I might consider purchasing in the future. However, it's not ideal for playing most games. 
The Acer 516 GE is the specific Chromebook Plus model I received for review. Before diving into my streaming concerns, I should mention that the device itself is sleek, modern, offers solid battery life, and didn't present any technical problems. Watching videos, writing, and browsing the web on the Acer Chromebook Plus was an enjoyable experience. 
In the past, I have used Chromebooks and found them unsatisfactory. These ChromeOS-powered laptops have been around for about a decade, but every time I used one, I was let down by their lack of performance and functionality.

Now, in 2025, as more applications are web-based and mobile hardware has significantly advanced, using a Chromebook isn't a chore. In fact, while using the Acer 516 GE, I often forgot it was a Chromebook because many of my daily tasks—checking emails, chatting with colleagues, reading news, and writing articles—are conducted through a browser. Consequently, I had no issues using the Acer 516 GE until I attempted to play games. 
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<img alt="Image: Acer / Google" class="size-full wp-image-2000006891 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="662" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283494296403838393.jpg" width="1920"/>
<figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000006891">Image: Acer / Google</figcaption>
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The 516 GE Chromebook Plus is heavily promoted as a gaming-oriented device. Google sent it to me, a writer at Kotaku, because it is marketed as a gamer-friendly device. But if you're familiar with ChromeOS and Chromebooks, you know they can't handle high-end games. The solution? The power of the cloud. 
That's the main selling point of the 516 GE. You don't need to download games or worry about technical specifications. Simply log into your preferred game streaming service and start playing titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Fortnite instantly. Perhaps in another five years, this promise will be fully realized, but for now, streaming games is still not the best way to play.

I tested Fortnite, Cyberpunk 2077, and Gears 5 using various methods, including Game Pass, Nvidia Geforce Now, and Amazon Luna. While some experiences were better than others, none matched the quality of playing a game natively on a console or PC. 
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You can install Steam on the 516 GE (it has a special built-in feature for this), and using what I assume is Proton, I managed to play some 2D games like Vampire Survivors and Balatro without issues on the 516 GE. But in a world where my phone can do that too, it's not impressive. No, the major selling point of this device is its ability to play high-end, AAA games on the go without downloading and without spending thousands on a dedicated gaming laptop.

Unfortunately, even in 2025, with Google Fiber internet (which I have), the 516 GE can't eliminate the lag, choppiness, and visual artifacts encountered while streaming games. 
So, if you're seeking a powerful Chromebook capable of playing basic 2D games and retro titles (I managed to run Turok on it without any issues), then the 516 GE is worth considering. Just don't expect it and its game-streaming features to replace your Switch, Steam Deck, or PS5 anytime soon. 
.
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