Recent reviews by SavageBeastZero

Nightdive Studios has brought this legendary immersive sim classic to modern audiences with a new new coat of paint that truly compliments and respects the original art, as well as game design. Graphically, it's a sight to behold for old school fans! The art style can at times mislead you into feeling like this is what it truly looked like decades ago, in a very good way. It's a remarkably stylized look that truly suits the remake.

In terms of optimization, it couldn't be better and those saying that it's not optimized are definitely experiencing a serious PEBCAK moment. This is one of the first releases in quite some time which utilized the Unreal engine without any serious issues at launch. So, optimization wise, it's virtually a flawless release. If you have a relatively modern system, there's nothing to worry about, it will run extremely well. Nightdive Studios should truly be applauded for their efforts here.

In terms of game play changes found within the System Shock Remake, there are countless gameplay mechanics and systems which received much needed quality of life improvements from Nightdive, removing or updating many of the older archaic systems found in the original, bringing the game as a whole closer to the modern era without removing its original identity. If anything else, it brings clarity to the original vision, making it a much more enjoyable experience overall. That being said, considering these changes, this is in my opinion the definitive System Shock experience that all immersive sim fans deserve!

Now onto the main issues I have with the this release. There aren't many but...

Nightdive has truly done themselves and their community a disservice by releasing the System Shock Remake with issues in terms of re-mappable keys for both Keyboard & mouse. The feature exists within the menu, but at times it functions, but more times than not it simply doesn't and considering this near flawless release, seeing an issue like this at launch was disappointing. Nightdive knew of this issue during the beta builds, but it was never resolved. For me personally, I wasn't affected by this, as my keyboard and mouse have configurable software, so I simply created profiles for both keyboard and mouse and moved on with my life. Yet, many don't have this available and they shouldn't have to. This has been a function feature for decades.

Then in terms of the controller experience, it's just not where it needed to be. Although yes, it is listed as partial controller support but, there's simply no reason that Nightdive couldn't have had full controller support ready for launch. The partial controller support available is generic and doesn't suit the game. It's quite clear to see they didn't put enough time into it. I wouldn't go as far as saying it's unplayable with a controller, but it certainly isn't a satisfactory experience and anyone saying it is must be delusional. All one has to do is try to navigate the inventory to see how insufficient it is. Nightdive should have ensured that inventory management was navigated using a D-Pad, not emulated mouse using the right stick, because there's never been a time where that form of navigation was acceptable, let alone in 2023.

So overall, those are my primary issues. Input device support is lacking and Nightdive needs to provide an update soon, so those affected by the above mentioned issues can enjoy the experience the way it was intended.

Now that those negatives are out of the way, I 100% recommend System Shock Remake! It's a magnificent remake of a legendary game that truly must be experienced by the entirety of the pc gaming community. If you enjoyed Bioshock, Prey, Thief or other immersive sims, but never had a chance to play the original, there's never been a better time to do so. It's superior to the original in every way.

It's everything I was hoping it would be and more! Once those issues I mentioned are remedied, I'd go as far as saying it's flawless! A definite must have for your Steam account!

Dying Light is a game that no matter how highly regarded it may be, that's simply not enough praise for what I consider to be a classic amongst classics.

Although at face value, Dying Light may appear to be an open world experience similar to the Far Cry series but, with parkour, zombies and heavy crafting elements. It's totally not. It's an open world experience similar to the Far Cry series but, with parkour, zombies and heavy crafting elements!!!

See how different it is once it's explained properly? Now, I know you're thinking "he just said the same thing twice". Yeah, I did. Yet, here's the thing. That basic description, that although does give an idea as to what the general experience entails, doesn't go into the details of exactly how that makes it a completely original experience worth your time and the truth is, that's because explaining it is more difficult than you'd think.

Not because explaining the differences are difficult, that's not the issue. Yet instead, it's because there's just so much to touch on, that I honestly don't even know where to begin. The differences really are that drastic. So instead, I'll try to summarize the experience as clearly as possible.

Dying Light is a game that just nails so many elements the developers were going for, that it leaves you with this feeling of awe. From the amazing visuals, blood chilling atmospheric sound design, equally impressive soundtrack, the enjoyable crafting mechanics or the parkour game play done to perfection, Techland was able to seamlessly craft an open world game that simply put, is one of the best gaming experiences available.

So, although that doesn't necessarily explain the details of what makes Dying Light, Dying Light. It should explain that you absolutely need to buy it, put on a pair of headphones and experience it for yourself, because otherwise you're missing out on one of the best gaming experiences available on PC today.

I've never written a review this early into playing, but considering the HumbleBundle Monthly bundle only runs for about two more weeks, I felt it was necessary to chime in on my initial experience and whether it is worth the money for those who haven't played Conan Exiles yet, but were thinking about picking it up. Thus why this is simply a recommendation and not a review.

I'm not a long time player by any stretch of the imagination and haven't experienced issues myself, but can easily imagine why the veteran playbase is a bit disgruntled. Considering my DayZ and Ark experiences, my heart is with the die hard Conan players, as I understand how frustrating it is when you feel like your not being heard. Bugs, glitches, cheating in PvP and everything else with it, I get it I really do.

But..

I don't have that deep of an experience with the game to judge it on that level, but what I do have is a first time player's perspective who picked it up in the HumbleBundle Monthly, so that's all I can speak of at the moment and my perspectove will always be on the opposite side of the spectrum due to the price I paid for it and lack of hours played in comparison to the vets.

With that being said, if you're considering buying this month's HumbleBundle Monthy, because you've had an interest in picking Conan up, but were on the fence, do so. For the price it's being offered at, along side other free titles, it's a no brainer. Conan is a very, very good title and is well worth the HumbleBundle Monthly's asking price. I'd honestly go as far as saying with my experiences thus far, I should have picked it up when it released and am upset at myself for not doing so, because it's easy to see Funcom truly cared about the Conan IP.

If you're a fan of survival titles, you're missing out not playing Conan, because Conan Exiles 100% deserves a place in your library. I can't get enough of the grindiness when survival titles get it right and Conan does. It's enjoyable and somewhat familiar (especially to ARK players) as soon as you begin your playthrough. Conan Exiles is one of those titles that will scratch that survival itch if that's what you're looking for. So I honestly can't recommend Conan Exiles enough for the asking price over at HumbleBundle. In my opinion, it's the best monthly that's ever been released, because the value really is that good.

From graphics to gameplay, Conan Exiles is a high quality release being offered at next to nothing in the July HumbleBundle Monthly and if you've been interested in playing it, you'll regret not picking it up now for $12 (US) and the included other games. Don't let this opportunity pass you up, because as much as I'm sure there are issues with the game as the veteran playerbase say's, they paid far more, so their perspective is definitely going to be more critical and rightly so.

Yet, I let the Steam reviews affect me not buying Conan Exiles for months and I'm disgusted at myself for that, because Funcom deserved my support. They released a title in the Conan universe and put a massive amount of effort into it. Upon first launch, I was amazed at exactly how well rounded this game is and imperfections aside, there's a lot to like (more so than most survival titles). So, although ARK might be considered the reigning king of survival titles to many (I still think DayZ is the best), owning the runner up for a fraction of the release price is the deal of the year!

I have to be honest here, I still haven't played a perfect survival title, even though I own so many. They all have their strengths and weaknesses and I guarantee when you play Conan Exiles, you'll see a lot of things that Funcom did better than everyone else, just as if you play ARK and DayZ, they'll both have certain elements that are superior. Yet, you'll be disappointed if you don't give Conan Exiles a shot to discover this yourself.

Buy the July HumbleBundle Monthly bundle, support charity and Funcom, they both deserve it!

With the release of DOOM, ID Software has once again returned to form, bringing new relevance to a franchise that had laid dormant for over ten years aside from spin offs and re-releases. Although many worried that DOOM wouldn't impress upon launch, I can safely say that not only does it impress, but exceeded expectations tenfold.

ID Software has created another instant FPS classic that will leave you wondering why they ever strayed from this formula to begin with. With insanely fast paced action, fluid gameplay and fantastic graphics, DOOM is a nightmare come to life in all the best ways.

Whether you're looking for an immersive single player campaign or an addictive multiplayer component, you'll quickly realize that ID Software and Certain Affinity were both successful in paying their respects to fans of the series by bringing them an experience deserving of its decade long absence.

DOOM without a doubt deserves to be mentioned in the same bredth as its namesake and is a worthy successor to continue its legacy.

Welcome back to hell


Within the first few moments of beginning your DOOM capaign, you'll be thrust into action. Literally seconds after the opening begins, you'll be fragging demons like its 1993 again. No unecessarily legnthly cinematic cut scenes, just DOOM. You'll be immediately immersed naturally, taking on the role of the DOOM Marine and slaying demons on Mars in brutal fashion.

As you traverse the facility and Mars surface, you be engrossed by the incredibly atmospehric surroundings, which are created with intense gameplay in mind. You'll be moving and attacking with forward progression, aggressively destroying hordes of demons and leaving their lifeless remains in your wake.

As the incredibly unforgiving DOOM Marine you'll be ripping and tearing through seemingly impossible odds, growing ever stronger as you upgrade your weapons throughout the campaign. From pistol and shotgun, to the legendary BFG, there are quite a few weapons at your disposal to dispatch your demonic enemies.

In regards to story, it's there, but not in the sense of countless cinematic cutscenes as many of us are accustomed to, but instead naturally by collecting information and reading its contents. This is an incredibly welcome method of immersion that all but a few titles have recently engaged in the use of in game.

Considering DOOM's campaign welcomes the player to return after completing it, to play at a higher difficulty or search for secrets hidden in the world, this is an incredibly smart decision. There's nothing worse than having to wait through a ten minute cutscene when you've already beaten a game and simply want to return to the action. I commend ID Software for not going the cinematic cutscene means of story telling due to this fact and the game benefits greatly from this decision, you'll see.

Back are the beloved DOOM elements such as searching for colored keycards to gain access to different areas of the map as well as searching for hidden areas or easter eggs (Which there are many, but I won't spoil them here). You'll be surprised at exactly how large the DOOM world is, if you decide to attempt to locate everything.

Although some have completed the campaign in roughly 9 hours, they most definitely weren't taking advantage of the entire experience available. DOOM could easily take upwards of 20 hours or more if being played completionist style, searching for everything hidden in its world and that's only if you're playing on "Hurt me plenty", DOOM's normal difficulty.

If played on Ultra nightmare, even a highly skilled FPS player would have to put likley hundreds of painstaking hours to manage the same feat. So there's most definitely value to be found in DOOM's single player campaign alone and quite a bit at that to warrant a purchase.

With that being said...even if you're only interested in the single player campaign, I would give a resounding recommendation for all Steam users to add it to your collection, because it's not just a fantastic release, it's an instant classic.


DOOM's multiplayer component is increedibly well developed, addictive and much deeper than it originally appeared during the beta. So much so, that I put roughly twenty hours into multiplayer within the first weekend after release. Surprisingly, as I played more and more I became less interested in wishing it was more like Quake and grew excited that it was the DOOM it had turned into being.

Fast paced, relentless and unforgiving, it was the DOOM I didn't realize I wanted until I got it and thank God I did. Totally unexpected, after much debate, it dawned on me that I now have a new favorite online shooter.

One of the first things you'll notice is that the hitboxes are much less forgiving in comparison to other FPS titles such as Call of Duty, Battlefield or Team fortress 2 and much more akin to the Quake hitboxes of old which is a welcome return. When you earn kills they're incredibly satisfying in comparison and I believe many other DOOM players would agree.

You'll start to make minute adjustments during exchanges with an enemy, that you never had to in competing titles. This leads to incredibly tense engagements on a regular basis, that truly makes the experience much, much more enjoyable in the long run. Although much less forgiving, it leads to a much more rewarding experience overall.

The multi-tiered maps make use of the double jump mechanic and using them on a regular basis is a necessity, but in no way feels over done. DOOM is a shooter and a shooter first, which means evading an enemy is unlikely, so although you'll need to take advantage of the available movememnt system, you can't use it as a crutch like in many other recent AAA multiplayer releases, so master movement, but aim and aim well.

DOOM now has loadouts, each containing two weapons of your choice and a hack module system where prior to a match you can select up to four hack modules that can be utilized during a match. The hack module system is surprisingly really well thought out and increases the depth as well as balance overall.

The hack modules available each reward the player with slightly enhanced stats such as +5% armor or the ability to see your enemy through walls for 5 seconds after you respawn, but none of them create an imbalance at all. Like I said above they merely add to the depth and I find them to be a welcome addition to the overall multiplayer package.

Demon runes are another gameplay addition that I find to be a quite enjoable experience in DOOM's multiplayer. Players can select either the Revenant, Baron of Hell, Mancubus or Prowler and each are able to perform differing attacks which suit certain maps better than others, as well as certain play styles. This truly adds to the depth of multiplayer overall by quite a bit.

Demon runes become active on map after a certain amount of time has transpired and then the first player to collect it will become their chosen demon, that can then cause havok on the defending team. So, essentially, demon ruins are now the OP weapons of previous Quake games. Where all players are fighting to be the first to get them. So overall that gameplay aspect of Quake is here, just reimagined.

In closing DOOM's multiplayer isn't simply an afterthought, but a completely fleshed out experience that many players will find themselves addicted to for quite some time. So, if you're looking for a new online FPS experience, with relentless and unforgivingly addictive multiplayer, then look no further. DOOM will fill that need and punch it in the face, while you ask for more!


Build maps for free and play other player map creations for free. Who does that in 2016? ID Software does. Buy DOOM, they deserve our support.

http://gtm.steamproxy.vip/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=675238204

Valve truly threw previous controller design conventions aside, successfully reimagined the possibilities of what controller design could be and boldly created something so revolutionary it prompts me to dare say, this may possibly have the potential to be the greatest input device ever created. Valve has truly redefined what we've previously come to expect from a controller and has set a new standard for peripherals in a whole.

With near daily updates, that add to its functionality which, will continually ensure its further evolution, the Steam Controller is the best investment money can buy for the PC gaming enthusiast who refuses to sacrifice their comfort, precision and customization abilities when in the market for a hand held input device.

(Please read below for the full review. Thank you for reading and have a nice day.)

Let's state the obvious first. The Steam Controller looks like it belongs in the seventh dimension. Bearing no resemblence to the designs of it's competitors, the Steam Controller simply looks out of this world.

With its sleek matte black finish and gloss trim, the Steam Controller is quite attractive and visually appealing. It's bizarre look will immediately draw your attention to its curious appearance. Curvatious and cool are the first things that come to mind when looking at this futuristic looking new device. The Steam Controller most definitely has personality to say the least.

The slick black touch pads, face buttons, triggers, bumpers and analog stick, all seamlessly blend into the Steam Controllers appearance adding to its appeal, with the final touch of an illuminated home button that serves its purpose, yet isn't intrusive.

Overall, visually the modernized Steam Controller design is a welcome change to what's become an almost standardized and boring peripheral within the industry.

Nearly symbiotic, the Steam Controller is by far the most ergonomic controller available on the market today. Incredibly natural feeling upon first grasp, the Steam Controllers design shines in many areas, yet its ergonomics might possibly be the strongest aspect to its design overall.

Its curvatious design feels incredibly appealing when in hand and this well thought out aspect of the Steam Controllers design will ensure that long play sessions feel just as comfortable in the tenth hour as it did in the first.

Simply put, Valve nailed the ergonomics to such a degree, that it makes competitors offerings obsolete within this category and that's an understatement to say the least.

• General Design: A solid build, incredibly sturdy and deceptively heavier than a comparable Xbox One controller. The Steam Controller was intelligently designed to disperse the weight throughout the entire device, thus making it feel lighter.
  
  Due to this intelligent design, play sessions can be enjoyed for longer durations without feeling hand fatigue, thus leading to better overall personal performance.
  
  
• Touch Pads: The Steam Controllers touch pads are remarkaby accurate, even when compared to a high end gaming mouse. Their slick surface area allows your thumb to gracefully glide with ease, while maintaining control at all times.
  
  Suprisingly, they feel natural to use for pointer precision, even after only a few sessions and considering it's such drastic change in comparison to either anolog sticks or a mouse, I'd consider that a resounding success. I now refuse to play any game type with anything else, they really are that good.
  
  
• Haptic feedback: The haptic feedback within the Steam Controller is an essential element to pointer and input awareness. Whether using track ball mode or the coutless others, the Steam Controller couldn't have been created without it.
  
  After well over a few hundred hours of use, I now fully understand why Valve decided to go this route. Haptic feedback provides incredibly accurate audible and sensory feedback when aiming, which is irreplacable. I can't praise haptic feedback enough, truly amazing!
  
  
• Analog stick: Generally speaking, physically it's a fairly standard analog stick. Yet considering the countless ways to adjust it, it's by far and out the best analog stick I've ever used. One plus to it's faily standard physical nature is that it's 100% compatible with Xbox 360/PS3 Kontrol Freeks, which I simply refuse to play without. That was an unexpected, pleasant surprise.
  
  
• Face buttons: A touch on the small side, but never something that creates an issue in game. The black face buttons (XYAB) of the Steam controller are a nice change in comparison to the multi-colored design of competitors controllers.
  
  
• Triggers: These high quality triggers were something that I've enjoyed considerably. A welcome step up from triggers found on other competitors controllers. They're ergonomic and put less strain on your hands.
  
  
• Bumpers: Incredibly solid and clicky, PC users used to mechanical keyboards (like myself) will more than likely appreciate their loud audible click similar to microns or Cherry MX Blues. It's a very satisfying sound and actuation is brilliant.
  
  
• Rear Grip Paddles: Easier to locate than rear paddles found on a Scuff and more responsive, the rear grip paddle design is something that I've come to truly love. Now irreplacable in my eyes, at first I questioned whether or not they would provide the necessary input responsiveness needed for FPS gaming.
  
  I've been proven wrong and thensome. I've previously used Scuffs and I would choose the Steam Controllers rear paddles for any genre, any day of the week, hand over fist above the Scuff. Simply priceless.
  
  
• Motion Controls (Gyroscope and Accelorometer): Shockingly precise, the motion controls are incredibly useful. In FPS especially, the motion controls assist you in making minute and slight adjustments with smallest of movements giving you pin point accuracy.

The Steam Controllers key configuration customization is so incredibly broad it's literally improssible for me to even scratch the surface of the available options to the end user in a review.

With the easily understandable key configuration customization software available via Big Picture, you'll have access to nearly any combination of input devices at your fingertips. From trackball and mouse, to mouse-like joystick mode and directional pad, those examples are literally a mere fraction of what you'll have available as options.

Configuring the Steam Controller to perfection, isn't an easy feat by any stretch of the imagination, but when you finally adjust it to pin point accuracy, you'll be amazed at the results.

The Steam Controller is a remarkable achievement in bold controller design and ingenious engineering. With near endless customization abilities, the Steam Controller will only grow to be more flexable with each firmware and software update, while competitors controllers will remain limited by their lackluster designs and limited creative vision.

The Steam Contoller will far exceed your expectations as well as investment, pending you're willing to invest the time to learn to use this new input device to it's fullest potential. Simply put, what you put into it, is what you'll recieve and it's worth every ounce of effort and thensome if you value your gaming experience regardless of genre.

Valve has seamlessly created a new input device that makes you think about gaming and the way you go about it in a different way. If you consider yourself a serious gamer, then you owe it to yourself to experience this incredibly rewarding device.

Introduction

Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty is the seventh game set in the Oddworld series that has spanned across 20 different platforms to date. The Oddworld universe and the beloved main character Abe's first appearance was on the Sony Playstation in 1997, which released to immense critical acclaim, winning multiple, much deserved game of the year awards and was instantly projected into the rarely achieved elite status as one of the best games ever created. Fast forward 18 years and the initial title Abe's Oddysee graphically speaking didn't age well whatsoever, yet the gameplay of course has still stood the test of time.

With that being said, can the newly developed Abe's Oddysee: New and Tasty ressurrect what was once considered a pinnacle of the industry and return the franchise to it's past glory? Can developers Just add water do this with grace, remaining faithful to fans as well as the series roots that built them? Let's take a deeper look into the Oddworld Universe once again and see if Abe's Oddysee is still as endearing as it was all those years ago....


Overview

Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty is a reimagining of the 1997 platform/puzzler classic Abe's Oddysee. Here you take the role of Abe, a pleasantly delightful award winning janitor, who discovers his glukkon overlord employers at Rupture Farms, have decided to attempt to increase their profit margins by using your species as the ingredients of their new food products.

As Abe, you attempt to escape, while freeing as many of your fellow mudokens as possible, you will encounter an assortment of challenging situations that are each more life threatening than the next. With locals, visually each more awe inspiring than the next, you'd be hard pressed to not be impressed with the care taken in recreating this beloved classic.

Developers, Just Add Water have managed to not only recreate the experience many of us grew to love years ago, but have reimagined it by such great lengths that simply calling it a remake is doing it a great injustice. For fans of the original or simply fans of amazing gaming exoperiences, Abe's Oddysee: New and Tasty is one to remember!


Story Experience

Many as well as I, consider the tale of Abe and his oddysee to be heavily influenced by Stanley R. Greenburg's screenplay Soylent Green. Although there are substancial differences between the two, the general principle behind them both are quite similar.

In Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty, you'll establish a relationship with your lovable protagonist within mere minutes, as he walks across the screen happily buffing the floors of his workplace and as he continues down the halls, by chance, he discovers the shocking truth, in regards to, the gukkons plans for the frightening future they have in store for his mudoken race. As you continue your journey, you'll truly want to see Abe to his safety, so he can live to see another day and that is incredibly rare achievement.


Gameplay Quality

During your journey, you will encounter a differing mix of platforming and puzzles both of which are excecuted to perfection. I simply can't find anything to gripe about in terms of gameplay and must commend Just Add Water for their skillful recreation.

Abe's Oddysee: New and Tasty, like the many other platforming classics that have come before it, shows why this genre during the 80's and 90's was considered the measurement to which all other genres were judged. Precise movements, challenging scenarios and a multitude of other gamplay elements that bring it all together creating a seamless gaming experience. It's exactly these reasons why the platform/puzzler genre is one of the most difficult to successfully design. You must make each gameplay element mesh, unbeknownst to the player, without them ever feeling forced and Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty nails them all without blinking an eye.


Graphics and Optimization Quality

Abe's Oddysee is something to behold, especially so while being played at high resolutions. The 3D models, environments and well...everything was crafted with care and detail. There's simply not a thing in this universe that isn't a sigt to behold. The art style is ageless, as well as original still to this day. There aren't many worlds that resemble anything close to the Oddworld games and in this day and age of copy/paste to succeed, it's fantastic to know that artistic experiences like these can still exist.

In regards to optimization, Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty runs amazingly smooth and across the three workstations I've tested it on, each experience at their respective resolutions were simply magnificent. A fantastic port, filled with just enough graphics options to make the PC gamer happy. Directly below, in the screenshot, lists the available graphics options.

http://gtm.steamproxy.vip/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=468039925

Resolutions can be selected up to 4K and can be achieved by systems of moderate hardware resources, all easily at 60fps. Yet even at lower resolutions of sub 1080p, Abe's Oddysee is still a breathtaking experience. So overall, if someone were to complain, they would simply be rustling up problems that don't exist in the games coding. They would lay within your system and not that developers lack the ability or excecution to bring you a successful product, because they did and a grade A experience at that, did they bring you.


Sound Quality

This is something that shouldn't be overlooked when judging the Oddworld games, specifically one's with Abe as the protagonist, due to the vocal nature of his gameplay. The sound in New and Tasty adds so much depth to the experience, it simply cannot be overstated. Without Abe's hello's, follow me's, whistles to name a fwe, the game just wouldn't have the same effect.

Aside from aiding the character development and gameplay elements, the other sounds in the game add quite a bit of atmosphere, making you feel that this world is genuine at every turn. From ambient environment sounds, to the sounds of enemy sligs firing away with their weapons as you evade their attacks, each and every element comes together to create a living breathing world.


Replay Value & The Bottom Line

Although, the Oddworld games aren't known for their replayability due to their linear nature, they are still very much so games that you would revisit from time to time over the years. With that being said Abe's Oddysee: New and Tasty is no different. A classic experience that, once purchased, you have the privilage of re-experiencing again and again throughout the years. Yet, this time I foresee Abe's Oddysee standing the test of time for a much longer duration than the original, due to the immense amount of effort given by Just Add Water. With that being said, it is without a doubt that I beg you to buy Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty for your own benefit, because this is a game that truly must be experienced by all.


Final Judgement: Add to cart and buy it now at full price!

An instant classic, that deserves the full retail price no matter how high. Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty is a classic amongst, classics. Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee New and Tasty wasn't just a successful reimagining, it was a gaming triumph that has made history once again!

http://gtm.steamproxy.vip/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=468039898

Introduction

DOOM BFG Edition is a collection of the prior DOOM releases in their most complete form as stated by ID software themselves. Let's find out if that statement holds true or if this release spelled a different kind of DOOM for the franchise?

Overview

DOOM 3 BFG Edition is a collection of games that defined the first person shooter genre across multiple generations. From DOOM, DOOM II, DOOM 3, and DOOM 3: Resurrection of Evil, along with The Lost Missions, each had their own impact on the genre of varying success. This release is headlined by DOOM 3: BFG a "remastered" version of 2004's well recieved title which is considered a classic by many. So does this remaster bring enough to the table to be considered exactly that?

Graphics & Optimization Quality

NOTE: Most importantly this section of the review is going to focus more on covering the remastered version of DOOM 3 and it's dlc content, titled DOOM 3: BFG Edition. This is simply due to the fact that the other content in regards to DOOM I and II are direct re-releases of the originals with no changes being made.

So what exactly constitutes this as being a remaster? Well......Not much. Listed below are exactly what graphics options are available to you in game which are meager to say the least.

Resolution - (Windowed - Full Screen - Up to 4K)
Frame Control (60 - 120 - Unlimited)
Vertical Sync (Enabled or Disabled)
Anti-Aliasing (Up to 8x)
Motion Blur (Up to 64x)
Texture LOD Bias
3D Options (varying)

Now although there aren't many options overall, what's there serves for future functionality and that's really what's most important at least in terms of easily applied in game available resolutions that will be displayed without issues on today's current HD monitors and screens.

Where is the Texture Quality Option?

Now that's where we run into another slight issue. As many fans of the previously released DOOM 3 know, there were texture pack mods available on the net that exceeded the BFG versions texture resolution quality. In comparison this releases textures are blurry when played at higher reolutions yet, still actually look acceptable overall if and only if considering this is a simple port of the Xbox 360 version.

Yet, that's not how something should be judged, should it? So with that being said, in regards to the textures quality in game, they simply don't meet the quality expectations that a gamer had come to expect on PC in 2012 (when this was released), let alone in 2015.

Frame Control, Vertical Sync and Anti-Aliasing are all basic graphics settings that aren't exactly something to write home about, expected but, still welcome. Motion Blur is either a hit or a miss for many PC gamers but, is in fact presented here nonetheless, which is a bit odd due to the fact that there were so many other options begging to be within this package that would have served this remaster and the series fans much, much better. Once again, nothing much to say in regards to texture LOD, other than it does what it's supposed to do as per usual, yet with lack luster results due to the lack of high quality resolution texture packs presented directly from ID software.

3D Options

Now this is where things actually get interesting. If DOOM 3: BFG is played in 3D the experience in quite an upgrade to the previous original installment. When enabled, the experience is almost surreal in certain ways, especially so if each in game setting is maxxed out. Sadly though, the amount of PC gamers that actually have the ability to experience this fantastic video mode are extrememly limited. So much so that, this once again becomes an almost irrelevant feature in the grand scope of things. Not many PC gamers have 3D enabled monitors, let alone the hardware to operate and utilize it.

So with that being said, if you do in fact (like myself) have the hardware necessary, you'll be in for an interesting DOOM 3 experience. Sadly though, I'm speaking to an incredibly small user base.

Optimization

O.k, here we go.....Considering the incredible lack of in game options which, of them none are especially resource intensive, DOOM 3: BFG most definitely isn't a highly optimized port. Will you be able to run it with respectable resolution and in game settings? Yes, more than likely pending you possess the required graphics hardware. Will you be able to run it fully maxxed out (Including 3D) without issues? Most likely not, regardless of the hardware you possess, which is unacceptable. Yet, considering most users wouldn't be utilizing the 3D options anyways, this doesn't hurt the experience, but is an injustice to the series fans who supported them financially upon release.

Gameplay Quality

Any previous fans of the series know there's nothing new here, but that doesn't mean that there's anything else that should have been either. The DOOM experience in a whole is considered by many (myself included) to be the pinnacle of the true single player fps experience. Intense, exlierating and downright frightening and that last one has nothing to do with the graphics and never did. It's created by the impending doom of being chased by and immense amount of npc's who do not stop coming after you, leaving you no time to prepare so, your only option is to run, strafe and generally flee in fear until you see an option to peck away at them one by one, with the general outcome being...you're dead.

Which is fantastic! The original DOOM games and to a lesser extent DOOM 3 were created during a time that the general fps skill base on an entry level were on a totally different scale. These games were created to challenge you to the fullest, while giving you crumbs in return for your efforts, all the while turning you into a DOOM fan like many of us who have come before you.

Story & Multiplayer Experience

DOOM GUY > GETS ATTACKED BY > OUTER DIMENSIONAL HELL DEMONS > DOOM GUY > GETS ANGRY > DOOM GUYS RETALIATES > WITH > THE SUPER SHOTGUN > DOOM GUY > RUNS OUT OF AMMO > DOOM GUY FLEES > A DEMON CHASES > DOOM GUY> 100 DEMONS NOW CHASE > DOOM GUY > DEMONS LOST HIM > DOOM GUY > RETURNS WITH > THE BFG > ALL OF THE DEMONS > = DEAD.......Nuff said!

If this were during the original release of DOOM 3 in 2004 the online experience would have been brimming with players on any given hour. Yet, sadly the same can't be said about this remastered edition. There simply isn't anyone playing this online anymore but, that doesn't mean you can't get some friends together and frag til' your hearts content.

Sound Quality

Considering there are multiple titles in this release, I suppose the best thing for me to convey is that each releases sound design was exceptional during their time and surpassed anything else on the market at their respective times. Agurably so, the DOOM series stands as a figurehead of the industry and always has in terms of sound design. So each game within the confines of this collection will undoubtably brim with nostalgia and were often later copied by far too many develpers throughout history..... Simply put, just open a door and let the sounds of nostalgia echo throughout.

Replay Value & The Bottom Line

It's DOOM for goddsake, people are still playing the original release since it was published. In terms of replay value, it doesn't get much better than this. BFG edition contains the entire DOOM franchise all in one fairly tidy package, you'll easily get hundreds of hours of gameplay out of it. Rough edges aside, this collection is arguably one of the best of all time and deserves a place in any fps library. Just as long as you consider this release an Ultimate Collection, instead of the remaster they wanted you to believe it was.

Final Judgement: Add it to cart and enjoy your DOOM!

http://gtm.steamproxy.vip/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=405330961

Driver Fusion Premium Review Summary

Driver Fusion Premium is by far one of the best utility programs available on Steam for pc. If like myself you have invested thousands of Dollars/Euro into your gaming rig, then Driver Fusion Premium should absolutely be in your software library. It will detect and resolve multiple driver issues that you were previously unaware were either missing/corrupted or outdated and I guaruntee after your first Driver Fusion Premium health check you'll be amazed at how many instrumental and obscure drivers begin populating the page. Driver Fusion Premium offers multiple driver maintainance features of which, I have listed in the lower portion of this review.

Simply put, I can't recommend Driver Fusion Premium enough. The combination of the softwares seamless functionality, accessable interface and excellent customer service support offered by the developers Treexy here in the Steam forums are more than enough to warrant my recommendation to anyone interested in computer maintainance.

Driver Fusion Premium Review Score:
out of


Treexy's Driver Fusion Premium customer service here on Steam is second to none

The custormer support being given here on Steam by Treexy is second to none. If you have an issue or a question in regards to Driver Fusion Premium, Treexy will answer your questions and offer guidance for those who need it. Simply put, where other developers here on Steam fail Treexy succeeds. Treexy communicates directly through the forums in a candid manner on a daily basis, answering any questions you may have including but not limited to product questions, technical support and more. If you have a question about Driver Fusion Premium, post a thread and I guaruntee they'll respond in a timely manner.

Why am I such a huge supporter of Treexy's Driver Fusion Premium?

Driver Fusion Premium solved the infamous MadCatz Cyborg R.A.T 7 issues that have plagued so many but, had previously gone unsolved even by MadCatz and Cyborg themselves. Their answer has always been that it may be a faulty laser issue and an RMA may be the only solution. This wasn't the case whatsoever and was due to a driver distribution issue on their homepage. Driver Fusion Premium succeded where a manufacturer couldn't within seconds.

If you are a MadCatz Cyborg owner and have experienced similar issues to what I explain in the thread below, more than likely Driver Fusion will resolve it. Due to space limitations if interested, please follow the link below to read my entire thread in regards to Driver Fusion Premium solving my MadCatz Cyborg R.A.T 7 issues here in the Steam forums.

http://gtm.steamproxy.vip/app/234820/discussions/0/627456487109745825/

Is the premium version worth 39.99?

No, it's worth far more than that and it issues you a lifetime Steam liscense to use on multiple computers. I like many in the forums questioned as to whether or not Driver Fusion Premium functionality warranted it's price. After running the health check feature for the first time I was instantly converted into a believer, after seeing how many drivers were either outdated or missing/corrupted. If you value your tech and consider yourself a true entusiast, you owe it to yourself to make the purchase, you won't be dissapointed that you did. Read below for my detailed overview of the features you recieve with Driver Fusion Premium.

Driver Fusion Premium Features Overview

Maintainance:
• Premium Health Check: The Driver Fusion Premium health check is what I and many other Driver Fusion Premium users consider to be it's most useful and more than likely most frequented feature.You will be presented with three available options to utilize during the health check, Driver backup, Missings Drivers and Outdated drivers which can all be selected either individually or as a group depending on your needs at the moment via check boxes residing next to each corresponding category. At the bottom left you will then be presented with the option to scan and once it's completed a fix option will replace it in the same location.
  
  Driver Fusion Premium edition will manage this section semi-automatically creating backups before anything is performed and then begin populating the screen with data in regards to missing and/or outdated drivers and offer available certified/signed driver to either replace them with. It will then ask if you wish to proceed with it's recommended fixes. Once the fix option is selected Driver Fusion Premium will begin downloading and installing the necessary driver file you have selected. Within minutes your installation is complete and you will then if necessary be prompted to restart your computer as with any driver installations, restart and everything will then be completed.
  
  I really can't praise the Driver Fusion Premium health check feature enough because it truly is something that any true enthusiast should own. If you like myself have heavily invested in your gaming rig or computer in general, this investment will pay for itself usually within it's first launch. Like myself most users proclaim an instant gain in general computer efficiency and some have even remedied ingame issues such as low fps, launch issues and more. I guaruntee if used correctly this program will absolutely be one of the most appreciated pieces of software in your library.
  
  
• Driver Family: Driver familiy offers and much more efficient and effective method of creating backups, deleting installed driver entries such as files and registry keys. Simply put this feature eliminates the need for programs such as CCleaner anymore and the mistakes that come with it such as deleting incorrect reg files etc. All driver associated tasks can now be accomplished directly here in Driver Fusion Premium in an easily organized and stress free manner. Another fantastic feature of Driver Fusion Premium.
  
  
• Device Control: Device control is basically access to windows device manager, although that can be achieved without Driver fusion Premium it is a welcome addition considering it makes management much easier with it being in this location as well.
  
  Computer:
  
  
• Desktop: Desktop will allow you to backup different layouts and screen resolution for furture restoration with the press of a button.
  
  
• Monitor: Monitor is exactly that, a hardware monitor that presents on the fly information in regards to functionality such as Processor, Graphics card, Hard drive and motherboard information.This is another nice addition that although may not be the most detailed monitor available, is fantastic to has such easy access to while working on maintainance.
  
  Management:
  
  
• History: History offers information that can be reviewed such as previously deleted/restored drivers which can also be rolled back to at this location. This is another essential feature in Driver Fusion Premium that shouldn't go unnoticed. Simply put it's a feature in the case you experience any issues after installation and need to revert back to a previous state.
  
  
• Filters: Here you can create filters in regards to all driver maintainance actions.

Check out the Comprehensive Driver Fusion Premium Guide (work in progrees) for a detailed explanation of Driver Fusion Premium and it's features. The guide will be completed by February 1, 2015 but, already offers quite a bit of information that may assist you.

Introduction: Tomb Raider Anniversary is a love letter to the fans of the original game who for many years saw a decline is the quality of titles being released for the franchise being developed by it's creators CORE. This is the second title developed by Crystal Dynamics, who were given the task to return the series to it's once respected and celebrated roots atop the action adventure genre and they not only accepted this great challenge but, as we all now know have continued to exceed gamers expectations as to what's to come from our most eye pleasing raider of tombs. If you truly wish to see exactly how the series progressed to what is now considered by many as the only franchise able to challenge and possibly best the Unchartered series as reigning action adventure royalty, Tomb Raider Anniversay although the second title released by Crystal Dynamics is where the evolution of their titles truly began.

Overview: Tomb Raider Anniversary is a remake of the original classic game released on the Sega Saturn, Sony Playstation and PC. Now many years after the originals release, it not only began to show it's age but, seem more like the grandmother of gaming instead of it's symbol of female stregnth, resolve and sexuality. Crystal Dynamics has returned our once royalty of the action adventure gaming scene to her original glory by completely overhauling the graphics and gameplay for the modern age. They have successfully retained the gameplay elements of the original all while enabling the player with a more fluid and responsive control scheme for combat and navigation.

Gameplay: The gameplay of Tomb Raider Anniversay is a blend of the previous entries with a more modernized execution. Gone are the tank like controls of the original which are now replaced with a scheme more suitable for a three dimensional space. The player will now be able to comfortably navigate our protagonost Lara through her adventures with a fair amount of ease and grace. Traversing areas overall feels much more natural than before as you perform platform jumps and general movements (combat etc.) throughout each level. With that being said, there are some areas which you will encounter less fluidity such as the under water sections which, in comparison to her ground level areas seem much less intuitive and a less than perfect camera that can at times make the journey a bit frustrating yet, even with it's flaws won't ruin the experience.

The puzzle aspect of the gameplay is kept fully intact retaning the original elements that many considered the series stregnth and are executed on a much more professional scale than the 1996 release. With the change to a more intuitive control scheme comes less headaches when trying to place objects in their necessary positions along with a free camera which will assist you in getting a better look at the challenge at hand. The puzzles are of increasing difficulty and can at times seem like a daunting affair which only heightens the experience. As you solve the puzzles, you will marvel at the the genius displayed by the develpers and see why this game is considered such a figurehead in the industry. It's this very element that Tomb Raider Anniversary displays time and time again throughout your adventure that makes it easily understandable once again why Lara Croft and the Tomb Raider Series are considered one of the most influential games created.

Graphics: Crystal Dynamics has done a fantastic job at bringing the original Tomb Raider into the modern gaming age. The entire world that you may or may not remember from 1996 has been painstakingly recreated with surprisingly beautiful results. Although anniversary saw it's initial pc release in 2006 the graphics are still something to behold. The indoor environments specifically can at times leave you in awe and shock that this was now released nearly ten years ago. Developed on a modified Legend engine which was first seen in the 2005 release Tomb Raider Legend, Crystal Dynamics have displayed their knowledge gained and applied it masterfully within their newly crafted world.

There are a variety of features found in the graphics options to suit the pc gamers taste and configurations. From resolutions of up to 1080p, multiple aspects ratios and an assortment of graphics features such as anisotrpic filtering, multiple AA, shadows etc., Tomb Raider fans can rejoice that their title will remain relevant and playable for years to come. The only feature lacking which, oddly enough was found in Crystal Dynamics initial title Tomb Raider: Legend released in 2005 is an option to turn on high end graphics effects. Why they chose to limit the options available are beyond me but, regardless even without these, it still remains a beautifully constructed world.

Sound: Within the first few seconds of launching anniversary, you will be welcomed back by the easily recognized soundtrack of the original remastered. For gamers who had the privilage of playing the original 1996 title, this will immediately send a chill down your spine and emit feelings of generations past. I immediately felt like a child again upon hearing the woodwind instrument solo echoing during the intro and it set the stage for an incredible adventure to come. The sountrack found within anniversary is perfectly suited to eash sequence at any gven time during your adventure and a stregnth at every turn. The sound effects serve their intended purpose and are general standard fair. The only sounds a bit lacking are during gun fire which, show their age in comarison to more current titles. They simply lack an ability to give the player a sense of power while weilding the many firearms found in game.

Story: In Tomb Raider Anniversary you play as the protagonist Lara Croft, an archeologist and adventurer whos beauty and athletic grace is matched by her intellectual abilities which, serve her well whilst traversing the many dangerous ruins found across the world. The story takes a back seat to the gameplay aspects but, serves the game well. It establishes a sense of purpose and creates a nice sense of pacing to ensure you continue further into your adventure without feeling forced. Simply put, the gameplay is just as much of the story as any dialogue found within it as any true action adventure game should be. Balanced and not overbearing, it exists and knows it's role at all times.

Replay Value: The replay value of anniversay is all dependant of the player. There are many hidden artifacts to discover if you wish to let your inner completionist enjoy a bit of obsessive compulsiveness during your adventure. There's quite a bit to discover along the way and overall it's a fairly legnthly adventure. That being said, like any action adventure title, there are some that will get more out of it than others and that all depends on what you're looking to achieve within the game. Although there is a seperate standalone mini-adventure that extends the content, what it adds isn't really geared towards the standard player and the gameplay found within it is mostly puzzle based. So overall the replay value found here is moderate but, most definitely worth the asking price.

Final Review Score: 8.1/10 After being passed the torch, Crystal Dynamics successfully resurrected a franchise that was quickly being destroyed by it's creators CORE. In Tomb Raider Anniversary, Crystal Dynamics re-established the series as a viable contender for the action adventure crown and have done so since this 2006 release time and time again. Although Tomb Raider Anniversay isn't the incredibly polished title the most recently released Tomb Raider (2013) reboot was, it is very much so a classic example of how a remake can be achieved successfully without alienating it's fan base. If you're a fan of the action adventure genre, Tomb Raider Anniversary absolutely deserves a place in your library.

Introduction: How long can you survive the post-apocalyptic wastelands of NEO Scavenger? This may be the ongoing question asked of the player by it's developers yet, I guaruntee you will be asking youself this each time you load Neo Scavenger regardless of your experience with it's unforgiving world. Even in it's early access state Neo Scavenger accomplishes what many other developers desperately attempt to attain yet fail to accompllish, an incredibly solid title built in a believable and atmospheric world, all the while laughing in it's large budget competitiors faces because there is yet more to come.

Overview: Neo Scavenger is a post apocolypic turn based survival strategy game that honors such classics as Fallout and Wasteland while retaining an identity all it's own. Set in an incredibly atmospheric world, the protagonist has recently emerged from a cryo chamber without a memory as to how he got there, who he is or what state the world is in. Within seconds he recieves the answer to the latter in a very unwelcoming way.

You soon realize that you will desperately need to scavenge this unhospitable world if you intend on your survival and will have to leave your moral bindings behind if you're to be successful. While traveling you will be encountered by an assortment of undesirables that intend on their own as well and will achieve this at any cost, whether it be thievery, murder or deception. To assure your own instead, you will need to do the same.

During your journey, you'll be presented with decisions that must be made and many times without prior knowledge of what may occurr based on your actions. You will pre-emptively strike what you deem to be

Gameplay: As stated above Neo Scavenger is a turn based survival strategy game with a wide range of varying elements that will affect each new journey you begin. You will be presented with an attribute screen where you must carefully select each according to your playstyle. Each will directly affect what skills you have available in given situations that will come about so, one must choose wiseley.

Once your travels begin you will need to manage multiple aspects in regards to your health such as hydration, hunger, restfulness, health/illness, injuries, environment temperatures, weather and more. The decisions you make will directly affect the protagonist accordingly so, one must manage these elements with confidence or otherwise you'll be swiftly presented with a message that you will assuredly see quite often, the death screen. This will come often and without warning aside from your available character management system. With that being said make sure you obsess about the details because, it's all that stands in the way of you and the grim reaper.

Aside from illness, fatigue, hunger and the like, you will of coarse encounter a variety of enemies along your journey that also as stated above intend on your demise. Combat is performed via a turn based system which, issues you an incredible assortment of options depending on your original skill/attribute selection which, I must reaffirm must be choen wisely! The options presented during combat range from hide, melee, , kick downed opponent, headbutt, sneak, ranged, retreat, offer/demand surrender, offer/accept cease fire, attempt to talk and countless other available options that are once again available depending on you attribute selection.

Do I need to remind you to choose them wisely once again? I do? O.k check it out, this one's gonna hit home a bit more....Unless you carefully choose your attributes, you may within seconds contract any one of the following unpleasant status illnesses or diseases:

Blindness, Blisters, Blue Rot, Cholera, Coughing Blood, Crippled Limb, Defoliant Exposure, Diarrhea, Gastroenteritis, Heat Stroke, Hypothermia, Hypovolemic Shock, Poisoned, Sepsis, Shock, Vomiting

Sound fun? No? Then choose wisely my friends, trust me.

You will without a doubt die and die often, yet during each playthrough you will obtain more knowledge in regards to how to survive and future strategies that come of it.

Graphics: The graphics of Neo Scavenger serve their purpose. They are in no way revolutionary and aren't intended to be, nor needed to be whatsoever. Yet if there were one weakness of Neo Scavanger this would be it. As mentioned above the graphics serve their purpose but, that in no way means that the options available should be so barron. The options available are as basic as it gets and are as folows:

Full screen, windowed, 16:9, 4:3, frame rate limiter, filter and stretch.

Pretty uneventful to say the least and due to the graphics engine's limitations they do not scale. So expect the presentation to be a bit lackluster. Yet, once again they serve their purpose and it will not ruin your experience whatsoever. So take this section with a grain of salt because, if you're in the market for a game in this genre, graphics are the least of your worries.

Sound: The music and sound effects although they may not present themselves often are perfectly crafted to create a tense and fitting atmosphere. Given the situation, the music will accompany and heighten your feeling of desperation within this incredibly depressing world. With each fade in the music will most definitely add an element that most other games cannot match. Considering so, the developers deserve an award for knowing when less is more and Neo Scavenger is a perfect example of that. The echoing sounds of the barron wilderness accompany the simplistic soundtrack design and add to a believable experience.

Story: The story although seemingly simplistic and unoriginal at first is where Neo Scavenger will surprise you at every turn and leave you wanting to know more about our most unlucky protagonist. Although at first sight it may seem minimalistic, you will be proven wrong as you progress further into this world of chaos he so sadly awoke to. The story contained in Neo Scavenger will most assuredly be a driving force behind your desire to continue multiple play sessions to discover more about what happened to this once populated land. As you can see by my vagueness, I am doing my best to protect any insight as to specific story elements which, should serve as a hint that it's most definitely there and is most definitely worthwhile. Trust me when I say, there will be many more than one occasion that will leave you in awe and in horror.

Replay Value: The replay value found in Neo Scavanger is second to none and I am by no means stretching my imagination out of bounds to come to that conclusion. The very fundamentals of Neo Scavanger are built to lure the player back into it's world of dessolation, no matter how many times they've played before. With each play through, you will gain knowledge as to how your next session could possibly last longer and you will most definitely feel an urge to apply it for a "better" outcome. What will give you an even more increasing desire to launch it again is that, even after you believe you have mastered it's many facets of gameplay.....you will die and die you will, often and mercilessly. Yet regardless, you will most assuredly return once again to the world of Neo Scavenger and enjoy every gut wrenching second.

Final (Early Access BETA) Review Score: 8.3/10
Although still in Early Access form, I in no way feel it to be a hinderance to come to a determination that Neo Scavenger should find a place in the library of any gamer looking for a title that will surpass their expectations and leave them in shock that they haven't played it before. The developers at Blue Bottle Games have poured an incredible amount of love and attention into their world of solitude and despair which, I guaruntee will leave you feeling the same. If you're in the market for a survival game, give Neo Scavenger a chance!