DeTechtive 2112 is a newly released indie action-adventure game that immerses players in a cyberpunk dystopia set in the year 2112. Developed by M11 Studio and 5Deniz, the game offers a blend of shooting mechanics and detective work, although it leans heavily towards action rather than traditional problem-solving.
First fight. Pic: veronica.irizarry
Gameplay Overview
Players assume the role of Detective Matthew Wallace, who is navigating a crumbling England post-World War III. The game features five unique cases, each designed to unravel complex narratives involving the city’s elite and Wallace’s own troubled past. While players can approach missions through stealth or direct combat, many reviews indicate that stealth is poorly implemented, often leading to overwhelming enemy encounters when players are detected.
Weapons and Equipment loadout. Pic: veronica.irizarry
The gameplay mechanics allow for a choice between aggressive tactics or stealthy approaches. However, many players have reported that the AI lacks sophistication, making combat feel repetitive. Enemies tend to follow predictable patterns, which can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. The game supports co-op play for up to four players, adding a social element to the otherwise solitary detective experience.
Visuals and Audio
One of the standout features of DeTechtive 2112 is its visual presentation. The game employs a striking cyberpunk aesthetic with neon-lit environments and detailed cityscapes, thanks to Unreal Engine 5 technology. This visual style effectively captures the essence of a dystopian future, creating an engaging atmosphere for exploration. However, while the graphics are praised, some audio elements have been criticized for inconsistency, such as louder footsteps compared to gunfire sounds.
Subway. Pic: veronica.irizarry
Narrative and Longevity
The narrative structure is engaging but somewhat limited due to the short length of the game. Players can expect to complete all five cases relatively quickly, which may lead to a feeling of repetitiveness over time. Despite its narrative potential, many reviewers feel that the game’s focus on action detracts from its detective elements.
My Thoughts
Overall, DeTechtive 2112 presents an intriguing concept with its blend of action and detective work set against a vibrant cyberpunk backdrop. However, it struggles with execution in terms of gameplay depth and AI behavior. While it may appeal to fans of fast-paced shooters looking for a stylish setting, those seeking a rich detective experience may find it lacking.
Disclosure: I received a free review copy of this product from https://www.keymailer.co #DeTechtive2112
In October 2024, Bandai Namco launched “Unknown 9: Awakening“, a new single-player action adventure developed by Canadian studio Reflector Entertainment Ltd.
You take on the role of Quaestor Haroona, who travels the world equipped with supernatural abilities. The game is set in a rich universe filled with supernatural elements and intriguing lore.
The story
You play Quaestor Haroona, who was born with the gift of traveling to “The Fold”, a mysterious dimension that overlaps with ours. Haroona must master her unique connection to “The Fold”, which gives her the ability to channel its powers into our world. But such power also arouses desire, and so Haroona becomes the target of the “Ascendants”, a splinter group of the LYS (Leap Year Society), which wants to use the power of “The Fold” to change the fate of humanity.
Stealth in Unknown 9: Awakening is a key element. Photo Bandai Namco
In the tutorial, you and Haroona’s teacher Reika search for one of her old students – Vincent Lichter, who is digging for ancient knowledge in the Richat structure in the west of the Sahara with an army of mercenaries that can help him in his fight against the LYS.
Reika teaches Haroona a few very useful combat skills, including taking over opponents for a short moment and thus attacking other enemies, for example. Haroona is not to be underestimated in close combat either, she can dish out pretty good damage with her fists and feet.
Haroona. Photo Bandai Namco
The skill list covers three areas: Stealth, Combat and Umbric. The latter includes the special combat skills that Quaestors can use. Some of these abilities are limited in their usability, for example, you need a token to take over an opponent (stepping), which you can refill if you defeat opponents.
Graphics
The graphics are OK, but seem a little outdated. The landscapes are quite nicely designed, and it is exciting to experience India at the beginning of the 20th century. A few graphic errors here and there spoiled the gaming experience a little, but not too much.
Unknown 9: Awakening uses Unreal Engine 5 and supports ultra-wide displays. The game includes ray tracing, though its implementation is limited to shadows cast by the player’s bracers in dark areas. While the graphics may not push the boundaries of next-gen visuals, the game offers solid performance on high-end systems.
Sound
The soundtrack for “Unknown 9: Awakening” is a rich musical experience that captures the game’s narrative and protagonist’s journey. The game features an original soundtrack composed by Yuichiro Oku, with a special highlight being the official theme song “A Light Lies Within”, co-composed and performed by American singer BANKS.
The theme song “A Light Lies Within” is particularly significant, as it reflects the protagonist Haroona’s journey. The track is designed to capture her inner strength and quest for truth through powerful lyrics. A music video accompanying the song traces Haroona’s steps across different world locations.
The soundtrack will be available on various music streaming platforms and is also being released as a vinyl album by Bandai Namco.
Gameplay
The gameplay is nothing surprising, you run, sneak, crawl and squeeze your way through the game world. You can hide in the tall grass and defeat the enemy from behind. The fighting is also kept simple, short left click for a quick attack with your fists, long left click for a kick that can interrupt the enemy’s blockade. The use of special abilities is clearly displayed to the opponent, and since there aren’t too many of them, you shouldn’t get too confused.
Fight to survive. Photo Bandai Namco
Players take on the role of Haroona, a young woman who possesses supernatural abilities as a Quaestor. Haroona can interact with a mysterious dimension called “The Fold”, which grants her unique powers known as Umbric Abilities. The gameplay combines elements of exploration, combat, and stealth:
Combat: Haroona can use melee attacks and Umbric abilities like “push” to defeat enemies.
Stealth: Players can sneak up on enemies and take them down silently.
Exploration: The game features semi-linear areas with collectibles and skill points hidden off the beaten path.
The Fold: Haroona can use “The Fold” to highlight interactive objects and detect enemies
The game’s structure involves moving through corridors and transitioning between arena-like combat areas, reminiscent of older action-adventure titles.
Trivia
There are really great comics, two web series and books about the game and the game universe that can be found on the homepage.
Anya Chalotra plays the protagonist Haroona in “Unknown 9: Awakening”. She is a British actress best known for her role in Netflix’s The Witcher, and was described as an “obvious choice” for the role of Haroona.
Recommendation
The game didn’t blow me away, but it’s fun to play and entertaining, that’s all it needs. Definitely good for a first work. I recommend all the additional material that you can find on the website, it’s nice and elaborately made, and should be rewarded accordingly.
System Requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
◦ Requires 64-bit processor and operating system ◦ Operating System: Windows 10 ◦ Processor: 4 or 6 cores / 8 threads / 3.6 Ghz Base clock speed ◦ Memory: 12 GB RAM ◦ Graphics: 8 GB VRAM / AMD RX 580 ◦ DirectX: Version 12 ◦ Disk Space: 55 GB available disk space ◦ Additional Notes: SSD Required
RECOMMENDED:
◦ Requires 64-bit processor and operating system ◦ Operating System: Windows 10 ◦ Processor: 6 cores / 12 threads / 3.4 Ghz Base clock speed ◦ Memory: 16 GB RAM ◦ Graphics: 8 GB VRAM / AMD RX 5700 XT ◦ DirectX: Version 12 ◦ Storage: 55 GB available space ◦ Additional Notes: SSD Required
“The Thaumaturge” is a story-driven RPG with morally ambiguous choices, taking place in the culturally diverse world of the early 20th-century Warsaw. In this world, Salutors exist: esoteric beings that only Thaumaturges can truly perceive and use to their needs.
A thaumaturge bears both a gift and a burden at the same time. This parallel holds true for Wiktor Szulski, who is drawn back to the tumultuous streets of 20th-century Warsaw by family matters. The gift of thaumaturgy significantly shapes Wiktor’s life journey tied around, a pursuit of unearthly Salutors and their hosts.
The Thaumaturge in the streets of Warsaw. Pic: Fool’s Theory
As only a thaumaturge can tame them, utilizing their mystical abilities to discover secrets hidden within the human soul and speak to the Darkness, no one understands quite like Wiktor how everyone suffers their own demons.
Obedience of beings
Only Thaumaturges can truly perceive the presence of esoteric Salutors and use their powers to their needs. Once captured, Salutors – whose existence is imperceptible to ordinary people – faithfully obey their masters.
The Thaumaturge in a fight. Pic: Fool’s Theory
Next to being capable of influencing people’s temperaments and affinities, they serve as a useful tool during fights. And be prepared to be dragged into many of those from the dark alleys of infamous districts like Praga and more.
Warsaw, 1905 AD
This isometric, story-rich RPG will portray Warsaw under the yoke of imperial Russian tsardom. Its inhabitants constitute a diverse group of different ancestries, views, and beliefs with often conflicting interests.
The Thaumaturge uses his senses to find clues. Pic: Fool’s Theory
Here hopes and dreams mix with dark desires, because darkness constantly lurks and waits to stigmatize its victims. “The Thaumaturge” will offer a unique take on turn-based combat, character development features, and investigation mechanics, and confront gamers with morally ambiguous choices.
My thoughts
I simply love it. The gameplay is easy, just navigate with a left mouse-click to a spot or walk with WASD. However, if you use the keyboard, you cannot walk in a straight line and often have to use W with D or A to zic-zac through Warsaw’s streets. With a right mouse-click, you can use your powerful Thaumaturge senses, who lead to hidden objects or forgotten stuff, or you follow the thoughts of people, and it leads to side quests.
The battle system is round based, and you can use your Salutors to aid yourself, or harm your opponents. It’s relatively easy and good explained. Think about some strategies, and even 4 enemies with guns and knives are no problem. Also, don’t forget to max out your skills.
It’s more story-driven rather than RPG, your choices in answers are limited. But that’s not a problem at all, since the story is excellent. It’s a lot of fun to see or interact with some of the famous people of that time. It exceeded my expectations… and don’t forget to visit your barber or tailor sometimes.
System requirements
Minimum:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 (6 core with 3,5 Ghz) or Intel i5-10400F (6 core with 2,9 Ghz)
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: Radeon RX580 (8GB) or Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti (4GB) or Intel Arc A750 8GB
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 25 GB available space
Additional Notes: SSD (Recommended), HDD (Supported). Framerate might drop in graphics-intensive scenes. Ultrawide screen supported.
Recommended:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 (6 core with 3,5 Ghz) or Intel i5-10400F (6 core with 2,9 Ghz)
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Graphics: Radeon 6700xt (12GB) or Nvidia RTX 3060 TI (8GB) or Intel Arc A770 16GB
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 25 GB available space
Additional Notes: SSD. Framerate might drop in graphics-intensive scenes. Ultrawide screen supported.
CD PROJEKT RED, in collaboration with Virtuos, has released a significant free update for Cyberpunk 2077, labeled Update 2.2. This update brings a host of improvements, including new character customization options, enhanced Photo Mode functionality, and various gameplay refinements. Available for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC, this update is a testament to CD PROJEKT RED’s continued commitment to improving and expanding the Cyberpunk 2077 experience.
December 4th. was the publishing date for “The Edge of Allegoria”, a turn-based 2D role-playing game by Button Factory Games and CobraTekku Games (CTG). Released on PC with Game Boy aesthetics, adult humor and a huge game world with over 25 hours of gameplay.
This unique pixel RPG is definitely not aimed at children. “The Edge of Allegoria” is available for PC on Steam for €19.99, and is fully localized in both English and German. Button Factory Games boss Joe Picknell’s describtion of the game: “Some Nudity and Sexual Content, Pervasive Coarse Language, Alcohol and Drug Use“
Pic: Button Factory Games
What’s it about?
Joe Picknell of Toronto-area Button Factory Games told us at 2024 Gamescom about his game in-house development since 2021, published by CobraTekku Games. In this lovable indie 2D RPG full of monsters, magic, and adventure, the protagonist embarks on a journey to put an end to the ever-present danger (we won’t spoiler, but it’s as simple as that).
Pic: Button Factory Games
When asked what Joe Picknell thinks the best feature of the game is, the long-time pixel artist answered “the dog,” meaning the animal companion, which doesn’t necessarily have to be a dog. “The Edge of Allegoria” has a retro look from the Game Boy era and should take around 25 to 30 hours to complete. It offers 96 different weapons, 50 pieces of armor, 145 monster types, 41 boss fights, 31 dungeons, and 6 divine beings with their own domains.
Pic: Button Factory Games
The game is clearly designed for a player who has fun with the easy game mechanics and the mature language. It can be played either with keyboard or controller and you won’t need many settings.
Pic: Tim SpielmannPic: Tim Spielmann
Recommendation?
Simple answer – YES Enjoy the time with this extraordinary game, and remember to pet your best friend from time to time.
Space. The final frontier. But what if that frontier was explored not through twitch reflexes and joystick mastery, but through the careful curation of a deck of cards? Enter Starforged, a solo (and cooperative) game that blends the vastness of space exploration with the strategic depth of deckbuilding.
As an avid fan of both space games and deckbuilders, I was immediately drawn to Starforged’s unique premise. This isn’t just about blasting asteroids or dogfighting with alien raiders (though those elements certainly exist!). It’s about forging your own path through a procedurally generated galaxy, making tough choices, and shaping your own narrative.
‘Of Ash and Steel’ is an immersive third-person RPG set in a dangerous medieval fantasy open world, developed by a passionate team that values the essence of classic old-school RPGs and modern designs. Explore the lands of a once-prosperous island, hone your combat skills, and survive in the unforgiving realm of the Kingdom of the Seven.
Of Ash and Steel. Pic: Fire Frost
Rewarding World Exploration
‘Of Ash and Steel’ world is full of hidden treasures, underwater caves, side quests and bosses, and valuable loot. Some of these can be found with a treasure map, while others with pure luck. The game has no marker system, and quests won’t lead you by the hand. Rediscover the joy of exploration and let curiosity be your guide; the world promises rich rewards for those who dare to uncover its secrets.
Deep Character Progression and World Evolution
Build your characters as you like with three different skill branches: Survival, Craftsmanship and War. Allocate your character’s attribute points and unlock passive bonuses by exploring the world. The social system makes your progression even more noticeable: As the hero’s skills grow, the world around him reacts differently. If at the beginning of the game you were treated like a ragamuffin, by the end of the game the characters will literally bow to your feet.
Of Ash and Steel. Pic: Fire Frost
Rich Storytelling
‘Of Ash and Steel’ is set in the low-fantasy cruel medieval world. Make your path from abandoned lowlife to a marshal of fortunes, choose your side and forge alliances on your journey to discover the truth of who you really are.
Methodical Action RPG Combat
The combat system in ‘Of Ash and Steel’ allows players to use 3 different combat stances with unique combat styles for different weapons. You are not a legendary, powerful Hero by default in ‘Of Ash and Steel’. You need to learn the ropes of becoming one! Learn to stand up for yourself by timing your attacks, using environments, and active skills. Invest in the War branch to become more skilled not just in numbers: attacks become more accurate and stronger, and you’ll learn more tricks. For example, you’ll be able to throw bottles from the ground to stun your opponents!
Of Ash and Steel. Pic: Fire Frost
Immersive Atmosphere
Players are encouraged to slow down and fully embrace the world around them. The richly detailed environment comes alive with a dynamic day-night cycle, shifting weather, and natural elements like wind that sways the trees. Ambient sounds—from the soft rustle of leaves to distant birdsong—enhance the immersion, while NPCs follow their own daily routines, adding to the sense of a living, breathing world. The result is an experience that wraps players in a comforting, tranquil atmosphere, inviting them to linger and explore at their own pace.
When Classic Meets Modern
‘Of Ash and Steel’ is a game for everyone from hardcore RPG fans to casual players. It is inspired by classic old-school RPGs and combines the convenience of modern gaming while paying homage to the legendary classic role-playing games. There are no quest markers or enemy auto-levelling, but there’s modern UI, environment markers, tutorials, and much more.
Developed by Kissaki Studios in collaboration with Richard Garfield (creator of Magic: The Gathering), Mindbug Online brings a fresh and innovative approach to the digital card game genre. Launching today at 2 PM CET on iOS, Android, and Steam, Mindbug promises intense duels where every decision counts.
Oct 31st, 2024 – In a surprise announcement, CD Projekt Red revealed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition is coming to Macs with Apple silicon. This includes the new iMac, Mac mini, and MacBook Pro powered by the M4 family of chips. The game will be optimized to take full advantage of Apple’s Metal graphics API, promising impressive performance and stunning visuals.
Cologne, Germany – Remember that awesome zombie-slaying, inventory-juggling roguelite I stumbled upon at Gamescom 2024? Well, get ready to hit the road again because Pixelsplit just launched the second public playtest for Deadly Days: Roadtrip, and it’s jam-packed with new features, improvements, and enough zombie guts to paint the highway red.
For those who missed the memo, Deadly Days: Roadtrip throws you into the driver’s seat of a zombie apocalypse road trip. Imagine a chaotic blend of reverse bullet hell and Tetris, where you’re dodging hordes of undead while frantically managing an inventory bursting with bizarre weapons and items.
