Echo Isle was sent my way by Josh Koenig Games, which is always appreciated. I won’t lie to you; I did not expect much from a game that cost $5 and was made by one guy and in every way appeared to be a complete rip-off of the original Zelda. I have learned one thing over the years, however: judging games by a quick look and the price is a quick way to miss out on a fun title.
First, yes, there is no way to avoid there is no way to avoid comparing this to Zelda because this game is an homage to the early games in the series, and it wears that very proudly. More importantly, it does it very well.
Now you are going to notice fast that this is a pretty short review, because the game is designed to also be short. This is sort of Josh’s thing; he makes retro games that are affordable, easy to get into, with no fluff. The dungeons are small, which doesn’t mean easy; some of the bosses can be tough if you aren’t careful. You get in, find the key, and then upgrade, fight a boss, and move on.
The story is equally as easy to get into. The lighthouse on the island has gone out; you are on a quest to relight it. The people on the island help with what they can; you explore a bit to find a few secrets, and away you go. The game can be finished in one sitting; I think I beat it in about 2 hours. My only complaints are the lack of achievements and the sword on some enemies could be a bit finicky later in the game. Not in any sort of game-ruining way, but a few times I swung and missed when I definitely did not miss. Still, this is a 9/10 game. Everyone should buy it. If you like old Zelda games, you will love this; if you don’t, this might give you a reason to try them. Best wishes, and may the gaming gods bring you glory.
As many of you know, I was lucky enough for iRacing to send me a copy of NASCAR25, and I thought it was fantastic. The newest trailer looks just as good; feel free to check out what they have to say about it below.
“Our fans told us they wanted iRacing Studios to build the next NASCAR console game, and they delivered,” said Nick Rend, Vice President of Interactive & Emerging Platforms at NASCAR. “The response to NASCAR 25 reflected the momentum we’re seeing around NASCAR video games, and NASCAR 26 takes another meaningful step forward with improvements across the entire experience, from how the cars drive and tracks evolve to cross-platform play that brings the community together. This is the most complete and authentic NASCAR console game we have delivered.”
NASCAR 26 will build upon the success of NASCAR 25, developed by iRacing, which launched on PC and consoles last fall. This year’s game, which features NASCAR star Kyle Larson as its cover driver, once again includes four NASCAR series – the NASCAR Cup Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series – with real drivers from each series, along with a groundbreaking new dynamic track feature that evolves over the course of every race weekend.
Built in collaboration with NASCAR and powered by iRacing Studios’ industry-leading simulation technology, NASCAR 26 continues the franchise’s commitment to delivering an authentic representation of the sport both on and off the track.
Additional features include:
New and improved game modes including an enhanced career mode with a new facilities feature and team upgrades, a standalone mode featuring The Chase, a new training mode, and cross-platform multiplayer
Visual upgrades including improved graphics, skies, and dynamic lighting, plus better replay cameras
More realistic racing with the new dynamic track technology, enhanced calibration tools for controls and force feedback, an improved driving model with overhauled tire and braking models, better driver AI, a particle system that enhances smoke, debris, and rubber buildup, and a 750 HP package
New additions such as burnout celebrations, an all-new Ram truck, a new spotter (Freddie Kraft), and a trophy room
New tracks including the Qualcomm Circuit at Naval Base Coronado, Chicagoland, and St. Petersburg
A host of other improvements with updated driver ratings, an improved paint kit, safety violations, DNFs and much, much more
“NASCAR 26 isn’t just about adding new features, it is to continue our long-term approach to building the most authentic NASCAR console franchise ever created,” said Matt Lewis, Vice President and Senior Producer at iRacing Studios. “Dynamic track technology means conditions evolve throughout a race weekend, the improvements we’ve made to the driving model, the new modes we’ve added… it’s all rooted in one of the founding principles of iRacing; leading with an authentic experience for our fans. We’re excited for players to experience NASCAR 26 this September.”
Beginning today, fans can pre-order NASCAR 26 at www.NASCAR26.com and choose from a Standard Edition ($59.99) and Gold Edition ($79.99), with Gold Edition owners receiving three days of early access beginning on September 15, four monthly paint scheme DLC packs, 1,000 career mode rep points, a $10,000 career bonus, and more.
Launching on September 18, NASCAR 26 will be available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.
NASCAR 26 continues the sport’s expanding investment in interactive entertainment and fan engagement, bringing the latest innovations from the track to players around the world. For more information, to pre-order the game or watch the official gameplay trailer, visit www.NASCAR26.com.
It is well established how much I love and respect both Atari and Strictly Limited Games, and at a time when physical games may be coming to an end in certain areas, I am happy to announce that Bread and Fred will have a limited-edition physical release on both PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch from Strictly Limited Games. This is not a code-in-a-box situation; these are true physical games. Feel free to click the links and place your pre-orders while supplies last.
In partnership with Atari and Strictly Limited, this fan-favorite co-op platformer is making its way to physical format, giving collectors and platforming fans the opportunity to add one of the most charming cooperative adventures of recent years to their shelves.
In this playful and challenging co-op platformer from Sand Castles Studio, players take control of two penguins tied together by a rope as they set out on the ultimate climb to the summit of a towering snowy mountain. Beneath its charming exterior lies a delightfully demanding challenge where every jump matters, every swing counts, and every hard-earned victory feels unforgettable. Whether playing side by side, online with a friend, or solo alongside a stone called Jeff, players will discover a unique platforming experience that rewards perseverance and skill.
This Limited Edition includes the complete Bread & Fred experience, featuring local and online co-op, the dedicated single-player mode with Jeff the Rock, Speedrun Mode for seasoned climbers, and the extensive Laboratory Update, adding new mechanics, fresh challenges, and hidden secrets to discover..
The physical release of Bread & Fred will be completed by the physical publishing experts at Strictly Limited as a Limited Edition for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. It will be available through the Strictly Limited Store, the Atari Store, as well as select retail partners and online marketplaces worldwide.
Ok guys, I just don’t see it. I’ve seen this trailer a few times and I’ve read the comments about how this looks so much like the games and is paying homage to the games and there is Easter eggs to the games all over but I just don’t see it. The movie looks fine. Knowing Cregger’s previous works (oh boy I got a lot to say about them), I can say it’ll be competently done but I feel like this is basically just his take on a RE story. And that checks out from all the interviews and posts I’ve seen regarding the story and characters. I also know it’ll be weird and off putting but literally nothing I’ve seen or heard says “Resident Evil” to me. I’m cautious as hell given it’s the 4th major attempt at a live action adaptation. May the gaming gods bring you glory.
It is getting to be that time of year again; we all know how I felt about last year’s NASCAR game, and if not, feel free to check it out here. This year will, of course, have some new features that, if you don’t want to watch the dev diary, you can read about below.
NASCAR 26 looks to build on the success of NASCAR 25, the first standalone NASCAR console title produced by iRacing, which launched on PC and consoles last fall. This year’s game, which features NASCAR star Kyle Larson as its cover driver, once again includes all four premier NASCAR series – the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series – with real drivers from each series, along with a groundbreaking new dynamic track feature that evolves over the course of every race weekend. Players will also find an improved Career Mode, online cross-platform multiplayer, and a host of other new features and enhancements including burnouts, an improved driving model, and more features to be announced via the gameplay trailer next week.
Two editions of NASCAR 26 will be available this September, with a Standard Edition and Gold Edition coming to all platforms. More information about pricing, pre-orders, and Gold Edition content (which includes 3 days of early access starting September 15) will be released alongside the first gameplay trailer on July 29!
You all know how much I love RPGs, and Deck 13 has made some fantastic ones. Coming sometime in ***ber 2026: Elements Destiny, and it is coming to all the consoles and PC, so pick where you like to play, and play it there. No word yet on a physical release that I have heard, but when I know, you will know. Check out more info below.
For fans of Elements Destiny, the highly anticipated 2D fantasy RPG is coming to PC, PlayStation 4, 5, XBOX One, Series S|X and Nintendo Switch and they have a reason to celebrate. The Release Window for the ambitious project has just been revealed in a newly released Trailer! As with previous games from Publisher Deck13 Spotlight, the pun must go on: Prepare for ***BER 2026!
The wait is officially over! Well, almost. Deck13 Spotlight and developer ShrooMoon are so excited to finally invite you to Solitas very soon. Later this year, on ***BER 2026 you will be able to join Erika, Lia, Maline and Karen in their fight against the evil Dark Foray and other powerful opponents. In tactical turn-based battles, you will have tons of powerful abilities at your disposal, vast and unique locations, and beautiful retro-inspired pixel graphics, with fresh and hand-drawn artworks for full immersion.
In Elements Destiny your journey starts in a small town which seems like a peaceful place that was once the site of unspeakable horrors and great sacrifice. You will play as Erika, a young huntress whose nightmares unexpectedly foreshadow great things to come. A stranger named Airic O’ Fory claims that only descendants of the Clans of Elements can stop demonic forces that are plotting in the shadows to strike back once again and conquer the Solitas. Are you really capable of saving the world from the powers that took your loved ones? Remember, you are not alone, others like you will accompany you to face all the challenges that lurk in Solitas.
As you carve your path deeper into the untamed world surrounding you, Erika, alongside her friends, will have to find cunning ways to emerge victorious from numerous challenges. Craft powerful weapons, become a skillful herbalist and master the unpredictable Elements to strike fear into the ranks of your opponents. Do whatever it takes to find the answers crucial for saving what you call home.
Elements Destiny is a love-letter to all those who cannot stop playing titles from the golden age of JRPGs, but are looking for a fresh and unique approach to them. A labour of love from the ShrooMoon team to deliver a one-of-a-kind JIGRPG, Japanese inspired German RPG, with over 40 professional German voice actors that will breathe life into every single character you encounter. Immerse yourself in more than 100 different tracks. Enjoy the mechanics you know from your favourite retro JRPGs, but expect modern controls and QOL features that will let you enjoy Solitas conveniently.
Granblue Fantasy: Relink- Endless Ragnarok was sent my way by the great folks over at Cygames, which I appreciate for multiple reasons. First, having never worked with them before, I always like working with new companies. Second, being chosen to review a game even after close to a decade of doing this is still an honor, one that makes me feel as special today as it did the first time it happened. Last but not least, they hooked me up with not just the Ragnarok DLC, which is honestly MASSIVE in its own right, but the base game.
So you may be asking what is new here? Well, a ton of stuff; for example, to get started, there are new characters which you can enjoy right from the start of the base game. Six of them, to be exact, all of which can be bought with your crewcards; don’t worry, while you can buy certain characters for about $3 with a few extras, this isn’t some gatcha thing; you can earn them all in-game. You will find plenty of crewcards lying around, and you can earn more through missions. In fact, almost everything you can buy can be earned in-game, except certain cosmetic items.
Other new things include new summon mechanics and new transcendence and master levels for characters and weapons for more customization and stronger characters, which will be needed when you face the new Chaos and Chaos+ difficulty levels.
You may have noticed I haven’t touched on the story or the gameplay yet. Well i won’t touch on the story because I don’t want to spoil one moment of the beautiful bastard. You are here to know about the DLC, and if it is worth your money, and if you enjoyed the base game’s story and want to know if continuing that story is worth it, the answer is yes. The fate stories for the new characters are just as good as any of the original characters; some are even better. They are far from being an afterthought and truly add to the world.
Now, if you are wondering if the new content is worth the admittedly hefty price point ($30 if you own the base game), it absolutely is, as it is probably around the same size as the base game. Most of it kicks off after the base game ends, but the conflux actually starts around mid-game. This is solo content that acts as a sort of dungeon high-score challenge that allows you to collect different upgrade materials for weapons and sigils. This is DLC done right; it is a 9/10 DLC if I have ever seen one, with my biggest complaint being there isn’t much here for newcomers, with it all basically being for people that have run out of stuff to do in the base game. Best wishes, and may the gaming gods bring you glory.
The story is a simple one: there is an island with a cursed jungle on it full of treasure, and you and your people want that treasure. Others have tried and failed, and you and your friends are about to find out exactly why they failed.
You will start out on the ship and choose a mission and some gear. This might be a sword or an axe or something like a musket or bow. This is a game I will be perfectly clear from the get-go, is meant to be played with friends, preferably friends you play normally with. Solo is an option, and it will even spawn a helper, but at higher-level contracts they seem kind of useless.
Those higher-level contracts are also where the difficulty of the game really kicks in. See, after a while you will discover there just aren’t enough weapons for everyone, which is great because sometimes someone needs to carry a lantern and someone needs to keep space open for all that beautiful loot you need to bring back. How are you supposed to do this alone, even when the game tones down the difficulty for you? With randoms, this becomes a problem because you don’t know anyone’s skill level or what they are best at.
While the game has issues, it truly nails the survival horror aspect. Lovecraftian horror is always hit and miss with me because it needs to be both scary and creepy, but many people try far too hard, and Nacon managed to avoid that with The Mound. While the game has its issues, the horror part isn’t one of them. The game is a 7 out of 10 that, if you have a consistent group, is worth picking up. Best wishes, and may the gaming gods bring you glory.
Astaryn RPG Idler on Steam was sent my way by Watercolor Games. This was honestly one of the weirdest, yet easiest games I have ever had to review. You just toss it on in the background while you are on YouTube or whatever else you are doing, and away it goes. Go back to it and switch what your character does, and just ignore it again. Now I know this sounds like every other idle game in existence, but why should you spend $4 on it? You should, by the way.
Each action you take leads to another; combat helps level things like your combat skills or vitality when you take damage. To heal, you need to level up your provisioner skill. To level provisioning, though, you need something to cook. This means you need to use your angling skills to fish. If you ignore the game too long without ever switching what your character is doing, you will end up with no growth.
You can earn gear by drops in combat; stronger monsters drop better gear, obviously. You can fight stronger monsters by doing missions and by focusing on increasing your stats in a way that makes sense, and by selecting the right talents. The game is very deep for what it is and for the price. The more you play, the more you can upgrade your character to stay away longer. You start with a 24-hour timer that will stay idle, but there are upgrades so you can go longer. As of right now, I can stay away for 48 hours, and my character will stay idle and do his own thing. This is probably the most intricate idle game I have played, and for $4, it is hard to beat. It is an 8/10 title. Best wishes, and may the gaming gods bring you glory.
Just so we’re all clear, I’m talking about cool Dante’s first outing. Emo, Hot Topic, proto Jared Leto Joker Dante won’t hurt you here.
We follow monster hunter/ paranormal PI Dante at his agency named Devil May Cry. A lady named Trish pops in, asking him to kill the dark lord Mundus on the demon infested Mallet island. Dante is no ordinary man: born for a legendary demon and human mother, Dante possess super strength, speed, reflexes, regeneration, with a host of mythical weapons. Can the demon hunter survive the legion of demons and beasts on a island that busts reality and the world beyond?
So many, many friends have pleaded with me to give this series a chance. If I can beat Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and System Shock (2023) I can beat anything dammit. Many, including our mutual friend and cohert, Arragas the Druid, begged me to start with the 3rd game (which is actually the first.) I didn’t because I’m stubborn as hell but I wish I did.
The original Devil May Cry isn’t a terrible game, it just aged like milk in many aspects and small but vital quality of life additions make a tremendous difference. The combat is solid enough. The bosses look cool. Mundus was a pretty good final boss that wasn’t a pushover. The world, settings, and lore are pretty cool. Dante is a fun likeable badass.
Two things murder the game for me. The camera killed me more times than not. The enemies hit hard, platforming can be a pain in the ass, and it can be hard knowing where the hell to go- the tank camera amplifies these issues almost a dozen fold. Their were plenty of times I lost it because the camera obscured a boss attack or I fumbled a jump because I couldn’t see. The other thin is those quality of life additions the game desperately needed. I’m talking simple things like quick weapon selection, attack instructions (why spend the orbs on new attacks when the game doesn’t tell you how to perform them), and the ability to lock onto enemies. Nothing huge on there own but rolled togther with the camera, it becomes aggravating.
In the end, I can’t recommend the first Devil May Cry as your first go into the series. It’s tough at imes for mostly the wrong reasons, the gameplay takes some getting used to, and the story feels mostly like an after thought. I’d say after going through some of the modern entries, check it out, but I can’t really recommend it off the bat. May the gaming gods bring you glory.
Savior Gaming 