Michael G. on LinkedIn: Completed the campaign and WOW! Insomniac Games did not hold back. This… (2024)

This is how the great Caesar of strategy games became the #underdog: have you heard of Imperator: Rome?If you're at all familiar with real time grand strategy/4x games, especially those with a historical point of view, then you know Paradox Interactive's map painting and role-playing games. Paradox has done a great job providing a lot if history buffs with their close-to-heart period in history. You can dive into medieval times with Crusader Kings III, explore the globe and expand in Europa Universalis 4, revolutionize the industrial revolution era in Victoria 3, play the biggest war ever hands-on in Hearts of Iron 4, and even jump ship to the future with #Stellaris.But did you know Paradox studios also developed a real time gsg to predate all these periods and take you all the way back to antiquity. Meet Imperator: Rome, the prequal to map gsg you never played!If you haven't heard about Imperator: Rome, it's no great wonder. The game was released with very high expectations back in 2019. Imperator: Rome was supposed to be 'Paradox's "great big game", but unfortunately, it seems the game was released a bit prematurely. Long time Paradox #gamers complained about a broken game, with a lot of bugs and "lack of flavor" as often described in the game's review section on Steam. Paradox went right into work, releasing 4 DLC pack to add flavor and mechanics to the game, and released the 2.0 patch, which overhauled the UI, and made it very aesthetic and pleasing in this writer's opinion. Unfortunately. It was too little too late, the game charts dropped with only few hundreds playing the game daily, in oppose with tens of thousands playing other Paradox titles every day.After two years Paradox announced that they're abandoning all further development and support for the game- "Et tu, Brute?" But this wasn't Caesar's dying breath, an independent team of modders developed the Invictus mod, a Mod that became very popular and affectively addressed remaining players pet peeves with the game's systems. In the meantime, more and more GS players are picking up Imperator: Rome on radar, and combining the game, all DLCs, and the Invictus mod, gamers reviews have now gone as far as to describe the game: "the best Paradox game imo". Personally, it feels like a GS game during antiquity is just what I need, and have decided to check out Imperator: Rome myself, and figure if this underdog might just well deserve the desired title of Caser.I'll check back soon!#ImperatorRome | #Paradox

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Save: bit.ly/NeoEpicLoot📢 Exciting news! As we near the end of 2023, the video game industry has witnessed an extraordinary surge in the horror genre. From highly anticipated sequels to bold reimaginings, this year has truly raised the bar for horror games. With three horror games scoring 90+ on Metacritic and a total of nine games garnering scores of 73 or higher, 2023 stands out as a stellar year for horror video games.From standout remakes like Resident Evil 4 and Dead Space to reimagined series such as Amnesia and Outlast, the year has been filled with nerve-racking experiences that have captivated players. Not only did we witness the revitalization of iconic horror titles, but the indie game scene also flourished, offering a diverse range of terrifying experiences for all horror enthusiasts.The widespread acclaim garnered by these games, both big and small, has solidified 2023 as a landmark year for the horror genre. Moreover, the release of Alan Wake 2, with its ambitious storytelling and visual flair, has further elevated the standard for horror games this year, making it a standout title not just within the genre, but across all games released in 2023.2023 has undoubtedly set a new benchmark for horror games, signaling a shift towards more consistent and exceptional offerings within the genre. To explore the full scope of this groundbreaking year for horror games, read the detailed analysis here: [Link to Full Post](https://ift.tt/a8YodQB).Read more on GameSpot - Game News. Neotizen News.

It's February, the time has come to lift the veil of secrecy and present the project that I've dedicated the most time to in recent months while working with Eneida Games and Cat-astrophe Games.Don't be Afraid 2.The second part of a horror delving into themes not very explored in games. In the first part, it was the child abduction, and in the second - dealing with the trauma. How to approach this to, on the one hand, maintain the appropriate gravity of the theme, and on the other, fit into the frames set by the horror convention?You'll be able to find it out very soon because the premiere is a matter of months - and I mean shorter ones ;)The media has already picked up on the topic:https://lnkd.in/dvRhstzGMeanwhile, I invite you to our Discord channel, where behind closed doors, you can see and know more :)https://lnkd.in/d7iSNfVC

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With Inescapable, the Dreamloop Games team wanted to make something familiar but very different from other games in the genre and I think we've really managed to set ourselves apart. Early on we identified that Death Games like Danganronpa and Zero Escape (and similarly themed VNs) weren't just about the murders and the mystery. One of the things that gives them staying power is how players fall in love with their zany, fascinating characters. In Inescapable, we doubled down on this an an absurdly ambitious way that I'm not really sure anyone has done before.See, we didn't just write one story and we sort of didn't just make one game... In order to show human nature, and in order to make characters with legitimate depth, we made a game where the narrative paths don't just change the ending. They change a majority of the game. Based on your decisions, the characters (which are the true life blood of the genre) will show you different facets of their nature. And with that, the game show you find yourself on will change, and thus... the game you play will alter, introducing new and different mechanics.Which means we've made what some folks are calling a Death Game, where any deaths that happen are entirely a product of your own conscious and subconscious choices. I mean... there are even some ways to get romance options, so if that isn't unique in the genre, I don't know what is. 😂 All of this is to say that my co-founder Steve Stewart and I recently previewed Inescapable with the fine folks at TheGamer.com (TheGamer), and you can read it here.https://lnkd.in/d5TKPRKR

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Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty - A Redemption Story of Epic Proportions 🎮After a tumultuous journey filled with controversy and setbacks, Cyberpunk 2077 has finally reached its pinnacle with the release of the Phantom Liberty expansion 🤩Developed by CD Projekt RED, this expansion marks the grand finale of a game that has been the subject of much discussion and debate, yet now stands more deserving than ever of your attention. Whether you're a returning player or venturing into Night City for the first time, there has never been a better moment to immerse yourself in the world of Cyberpunk 2077 💪🏾Phantom Liberty doesn't introduce groundbreaking changes or earth-shattering innovations, nor does it attempt to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it solidifies Cyberpunk 2077's rightful place in gaming history. The expansion represents a commitment by the developers to their project, CD Projekt RED has not only persevered but has also created a universe that millions have come to love 🕹This story expansion not only maintains the high-quality presentation of the base game but also serves as a return to form for CD Projekt Red. Phantom Liberty acts as a testament to the studio's dedication, as they managed to turn a troubled launch into a triumph reminiscent of redemption stories like No Man's Sky and Final Fantasy XIV 🧚🏼♀️When Cyberpunk 2077 version 2.0 and Phantom Liberty are combined, the result is undeniable: this game is excellent. The original game has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to the combination of the free 2.0 update and the paid Phantom Liberty expansion. Phantom Liberty itself stands as an all-time great expansion, elevating the best elements of Cyberpunk 2077 to new heights and offering a compelling standalone narrative. If Cyberpunk 2077 had been released in this state initially, it might have been hailed as an instant classic - a timeless masterpiece. The fact that it arrived two years late does not diminish the strength of the experience 😀Phantom Liberty seamlessly builds upon the story of Cyberpunk 2077, benefiting from the technical and creative updates it has received since its launch. It introduces intriguing characters that leave a significant impact and stand out as some of the best characters in CD Projekt RED's gaming universe 🤩The main quest of Phantom Liberty is tense and thrilling, filled with exceptional characters portrayed by talented actors and unexpected plot twists at every turn. Each quest offers a unique and engaging experience, even the side quests. The newly introduced location, Dogtown, is not only visually stunning but also a deadly and multifaceted addition to the game world ✨In conclusion, Phantom Liberty is a triumph for CD Projekt RED and the Cyberpunk 2077 community. It represents a culmination of efforts to redeem a troubled release, resulting in a compelling narrative, engaging gameplay, and a vibrant game world 🌎 🎩

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Epic Game Savings: bit.ly/NeoEpicLootExciting news for all the gamers out there! Alan Wake 2, the highly anticipated survival-horror game, is still set to launch before Halloween, albeit with a slight delay. Originally slated for October 17, the release date has now been shifted to October 27. Remedy, the development team behind the game, made the announcement on social media and emphasized the aim of allowing more space for gamers to enjoy their favorite titles during this competitive month for video game launches.The delay ensures that Alan Wake 2 can fully embrace the spooky atmosphere of the pre-Halloween season. With other major releases like Spider-Man 2 and Assassin's Creed Mirage closely tied to the original date, this shift to the back end of October may help the sequel avoid the fate of its predecessor, which launched alongside Red Dead Redemption in 2010.Fans can look forward to a new gameplay demo at Gamescom, where Remedy will showcase the progress of the game. Prepare to accompany everyone's favorite novelist on his thrilling journey through the Dark Place. Earlier this year, we got a glimpse of gameplay featuring the new playable co-protagonist, Saga Anderson.If you're hungry for more Alan Wake 2 content, our exclusive coverage offers in-depth reporting, theory-crafting, interviews, and much more. Visit our Alan Wake 2 hub to delve deeper into the world of this highly anticipated release.Read more about Alan Wake 2's delay and upcoming launch on our blog: [Link to Blog Post](https://ift.tt/7Ito0Jz)(Source: GameSpot – Game News)#AlanWake2 #SurvivalHorror #GamingNews

RISE FROM YOUR GRAVE!Released in 1988 for the Sega Genesis (AKA Mega Drive), Altered Beast was one of the most fun and frustrating games I played growing up. Now, allow me to elaborate, haha.We start the game by being resurrected by Zeus himself. That’s when we, the hero in a purple tunic, embark on a quest to rescue Athena from the Demon God Neff (Yes…Neff).But this is no ordinary journey because not only can we become Giga Buffed when we “Power Up” (I can still hear it – https://lnkd.in/g39sY54V) by collecting spirit balls, but once you get a third “Power Up,” you will transform into a Werewolf, Bear, Dragon, or Tiger—each stage has one transformation, and each one comes with its own set of attacks.Altered Beast is a side-scrolling/auto-scrolling game. The stages are fairly short, but saying that the game is hard is an understatement. So much so that I never finished it on my Sega Genesis; I only managed to beat the game when I was slightly older, playing on an emulator.This is the kind of game that you have to master each stage. You need to memorize where enemies are coming from, get the timings right to avoid being hit, and deal damage. You also need to focus on beating the right three-headed wolf to get the “Power Up” (Yes, you have to read it with that intonation) orb so you can transform your character.Altered Beast is also a co-op game, which didn’t make the game feel any easier (in my honest opinion) but did ramp up the fun by quite a lot, haha.When it comes to graphics and sound, considering that the game was released in 1988, Altered Beast pushed the limits of gaming graphics on the Sega Genesis. And who could forget that awesome soundtrack? Also, considering the limitations of that generation, it was amazing to listen to some voiced lines as well.Truth be told, beyond its brief gameplay, Altered Beast left an undeniable mark on my childhood. Revisiting this game when I got older made me realize that the great memories I had about it weren’t simply “nostalgia,” and I now have a whole new layer of respect for the game. It’s a journey I won't forget.Have you ever played Altered Beast? Are you ready to rise again?#videogames #nostalgia #sega #oldtimer

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These Horror Games Are Hardest To CompleteOn The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, we check out the easiest and hardest horror games to complete.Horror GamesDo you thrive on heart-pounding scares and hair-raising challenges? Do you consider yourself a seasoned horror gamer, unfazed by jump scares and grotesque visuals?Well, step aside, rookie monster hunters, because this list isn’t for the faint of heart. We’re diving into the realm of the absolute nightmares, the horror games so notoriously difficult that only the most skilled and determined players dare attempt them. Prepare to face not just terrifying creatures and bone-chilling atmospheres, but challenges that will test your reflexes, resourcefulness, and sanity to the very limit.This isn’t just about surviving the night; it’s about conquering seemingly insurmountable odds, pushing your gaming prowess to its breaking point because BestCasinoSites shared their analysis of Steam data to determine which horror video games are the hardest and easiest to beat! So, grab your controller (or keyboard, mouse… whatever gets you through the night), and get ready to discover the horror games that will leave even the most seasoned veterans trembling in their boots.But be warned, these games are not for the faint of heart. Proceed at your own peril…#videogames #horror #horrorcommunity #horrorgame READ MORE NOWhttps://lnkd.in/e5QA5PmJ

The newest game from the Mario universe's lovable anti-hero, WarioWare: Move It! brings back the microgames fans love and beckons you to invite your friends over for a good time. Review by Jahanzeb Khan

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 review: The rare game that's both bigger and better https://ift.tt/RlEAUk3For my money, web-swinging around New York City in Marvel’s Spider-Man is perhaps the singular best game mechanic I’ve come across in the last decade or so. It feels so incredibly right, and almost everything else in that game is built off it. I never really wanted to use fast-travel features, because swinging around was much more fun, and finding hidden missions and helping citizens in trouble as you traverse NYC is almost as rewarding as following the game’s main story. Of course, a great mechanic isn’t enough to make a great game, but Spider-Man is one of the most successful open-world style games I can think of, because it felt packed without being overwhelming.My first impressions of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 was that developer Insomniac Games turned everything up to 11, packing in more. The map is about twice as big as the original, adding in a chunk of the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens to go along with Manhattan, and the web wings offer a new way of traversing the huge map. There are more playable characters, as you spend nearly equal time jumping between OG Spider-Man Peter Parker and his protégé Miles Morales. Peter and Miles have more special moves than ever before to turn the tides in combat, and there are more skills for them to learn. Conversely, enemies have a lot more ways to mess you up, if you’re not careful.As such, my main concern for Spider-Man 2 was that Insomniac tried to pack in too much — take what happened to the Assassin’s Creed series with AC: Valhalla as a cautionary tale. However, now that I’ve finished the game, and completed about 75 percent of all the activities and quests available, I can confidently say that Insomniac has built a tight, compelling game with a storyline that ends up with serious momentum, making it all but impossible to put down through the second half. It’s just as satisfying as ever to play as the two Spider-Men, whether you’re flying around NYC or taking on hordes of bad guys. And while the story sucked me in, there are hosts of other things for a friendly neighborhood Spider-Man to do for the city’s citizens, including substantial side quests and smaller activities that enhance the story and your capabilities.Sony / Insomniac GamesJust like the first game, Spider-Man 2 wastes no time hitting you with a bombastic action sequence that kicks off the game’s main plot. This time, Pete and Miles take on classic villain Sandman, who escapes transport to the city’s prison for super-villains and rampages throughout the streets, getting larger and more difficult to manage. As with the intro of most games, this is meant to teach you the capabilities of the two playable characters, and it does so without feeling too heavy-handed or disconnected from the main meat of the game.It’s not long before we learn of a new threat to ...