NEWS: Ray'Z Arcade Chronology is coming!

Calling all Arcade Enthusiasts: Operation Ray begins! Physical copies of RayStorm x RayCrisis HD Collection are now available for pre-order! RayStorm x RayCrisis HD Collection will be available on June 30th, together with the Digital Edition of Ray’Z Arcade Chronology. Trailer: RayStorm x RayCrisis HD Collection Trailer: Ray’Z Arcade Chronology

Stuttgart, Germany - June 20th, 2023 - The highly anticipated TAITO arcade classic, RayStorm x RayCrisis HD Collection will be released both physically and digitally on June 30th! Physical versions are now available for preorder for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4! Regarded as two of the most important and beloved shoot ‘em ups TAITO has ever released and the more advanced successors of RayForce – RayStorm and RayCrisis – have certainly carved their own path in arcade gaming history.  Released in 1996 and ported to several consoles, including the SEGA Saturn, PlayStation and XBOX 360, RayStorm takes place in a parallel universe to RayForce and RayCrisis, where humanity has expanded its space colonies all the way to Orion’s Belt. Unfortunately, the rebellious colony of Secilia overthrows the government and plans to obliterate the earth and all the people on it. To counter it, Earth sends out a covertly-developed fighter codenamed the R-Gray (that’s you, buddy) in hopes of penetrating the Secilian atmosphere and obliterating Secilia’s base of operations.    Set in a cyberspace environment, RayCrisis was originally released in 1998 for TAITO G-NET arcade hardware, and marked a stylistic departure from the rest of the series, featuring for the first time 3D graphics. A prequel to RayForce, it details the events during the time in which the supercomputer called Con-Human gained sentience and rebelled against its human creators. While the Earth is being demolished, a cyberspace hacker launches a desperate assault to jack into the supercomputer’s virtual core and cease its insanity. It is up to you and the Waveriders to keep the malicious AI from causing any more chaos – even if it could be too late, the least you can do is ensure that no more lives are lost in the real world by ending it in the digital realm. Relive the excitement of epic battles in outer and cyber space with this new collection, featuring not only RayStorm and RayCrisis, with their polygon-based 3D graphics and striking art styles, but also their HD remastered versions. All of this is accompanied by the unforgettable soundtrack composed by TAITO’s legendary sound team, ZUNTATA. RayStorm x RayCrisis HD Collection - out on June, 30th physically and digitally for EUR 39,99.

Want to discover the full trilogy? TAITO’s original Ray’Z Arcade Chronology will also come to the West with five versions of three titles. Together with RayForce, RayCrisis and their HD remasters, you get the opportunity to play the original Arcade version of RayForce, released in 1994 and responsible for revolutionizing the “two attack layer system”, undoubtedly changing the face of shoot ’em ups.

Get your own digital cyberspace war at the Nintendo eShop or PlayStation Store! Ray’Z Arcade Chronology - out on June 30th digitally for EUR 49,99.

If you’re looking for a physical copy, our partner, Strictly Limited Games, is releasing the Ray’Z Arcade Chronology + the unreleased prototype level R-Gear, allowing dedicated fans to experience the excitement of space battles across the Ray multiverse!

Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengance of the Slayer Review

Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengance of the Slayer

Developed By: Big Z Studios

Published By: No More Robots

Date of Release: June 1, 2023

Price: $16.99

Yo, my fellow hardcore old-school retro FPS gamers! Get ready to have your minds totally freakin blown by the absolute sickest retro FPS to hit the scene in like ages! I'm talking about "Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengeance of the Slayer" — a game that's so freaking rad and old-school, it'll transport you straight back to the days of baggy pants and spiky hair, and also the days when Taco Bell didn't suck. It'll blow your mind straight out your nose and right up your ass!

First things first, this game is all about the vibes. The graphics may be pixelated, but don't let that fool you. It's like playing inside an old-school arcade cabinet, except on steroids. Even the steroids have steroids. And guns. The devs nailed the nostalgia factor, and it hits you harder than a drop-tuned guitar riff. It's pure eye candy for those of us who remember the glory days of gaming. It's like someone went back in time and made Redneck Rampage, but actually made it GOOD. And with Psykos. And hackblood. Also Psykos.

Now, let's talk about the gameplay, dudes. It's fast, it's furious, and it's an adrenaline rush from start to finish. You'll be running and gunning, blasting Psyko Sindikate members left and right with weapons that make Rambo jealous. Guns akimbo, glass blasters, sludge launchers, and the all-mighty S-Blade. It's an arsenal that would make any sci-fi geek drool — this game has it all. It's a one-way ticket to a blood-soaked, psyko-slaying extravaganza. If you see it, you can freakin shoot it. Shoot it all!

But let's not forget about the story, bros. Vengeance of the Slayer takes you on a wild wild ride, filled with conspiracies, mysteries, psykos, and more twists than a freakin pretzel factory on hackblood. Your journey as the last surviving Slayer on a mission to uncover the truth and kick some serious psyko ass along the way will leave you breathless and craving air. It's like a gritty action movie, complete with epic set pieces and voiced dialogue that's cheezier than a plate of cheezy movie theater nachos with extra cheeze. But hey, all that's part of the charm, right?

In the end, Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengeance of the Slayer is the ultimate throwback to the golden age of awesome gaming. It's a blast from the past that'll leave you high on nostalgia and screaming for more, if you still have a face left to scream with. The graphics may be retro, but the action is as fresh as a new can of Mountain Dew. So grab your Doritos, crank up the volume on your Linkin Park CD, and get ready to rock out with the baddest, most rad awesome FPS in town. Slayers X is the bomb, yo! Also your mom called and said it's my turn on the PC.

Little Witch Nobeta Review

Little Witch Nobeta

Developed By: Pupuya Games

Published By: IFI

Date of Release: March 7, 2023 

Price: $49.99

Little Witch Nobeta is a remarkable souls-like game that flawlessly blends challenging gameplay, captivating storytelling, and mesmerizing visuals. As Nobeta, a young witch armed with an array of powerful spells, you'll engage in intense battles against formidable foes, unraveling the secrets of the world along the way. The difficulty curve is perfectly balanced, offering a satisfying sense of accomplishment as you overcome increasingly challenging encounters.

Visually, Little Witch Nobeta is an absolute treat. The art style is vibrant and charming, beautifully capturing the whimsical nature of its magical setting. The attention to detail in character designs, spell effects, and environment textures is astounding. Every location feels meticulously crafted, immersing you in a world brimming with mystical wonders. Whether exploring ancient ruins or traversing through lush forests, each area exudes a unique sense of atmosphere and beauty. Furthermore, the sound design and music in Little Witch Nobeta deserve special praise. The hauntingly beautiful melodies and atmospheric sound effects perfectly complement the game's visuals and narrative, enhancing the immersion and emotional impact of each moment. The audio design truly adds another layer of magic to the overall experience.

The gameplay mechanics of Little Witch Nobeta provide an exhilarating and challenging experience. Drawing inspiration from the souls-like genre, the combat system is refined and precise. It demands skillful execution and strategy, making each encounter a thrilling test of reflexes and decision-making. The progression system is also deeply rewarding. As you defeat enemies and explore the world, you'll acquire new upgrades that expand Nobeta's arsenal. These abilities not only enhance your combat prowess but also grant access to previously inaccessible areas, encouraging exploration and discovery. The sense of empowerment and growth as you unlock and master new skills is immensely satisfying.

In conclusion, Little Witch Nobeta is a shining gem in the souls-like genre. Its captivating world, challenging gameplay, intriguing storyline, and stunning visuals combine to create an unforgettable adventure. Whether you are a fan of the souls-like genre or simply appreciate richly crafted games, Little Witch Nobeta is an absolute must-play. Prepare to be enchanted by its spellbinding charm and immerse yourself in a journey that will leave a lasting impression.

NEWS: Akai Ito and Akai Shiro HD Remaster limited editions incoming!

 

Two Beautiful Visual Novels Join the SLG Family in One Package! - Limited boxed versions available for pre-order -   Stuttgart, Germany - June 22nd 2023 - Strictly Limited Games, in partnership with SUCCESS Corp, is excited to team up and release the limited boxed editions of Akai Ito & Aoi Shiro HD Remaster for Nintendo Switch. Get ready to experience these two previously exclusive Japanese PlayStation 2 Visual Novels remastered in HD and packed into one Definitive Nintendo Switch version  for the first time in the west. These editions will exclusively be available at Strictly Limited Games  and will be the ONLY physical version of the game worldwide.

About Akai Ito: "Akai Ito" is a captivating visual novel originally released on PlayStation 2 in Japan, that takes players on an emotional journey of love, mystery and self-discovery. Set in modern-day Japan, the story follows the protagonist, Kei, as she navigates the complexities of her past and uncovers the truth about her identity. After the untimely passing of her mother, Kei inherits an old Japanese mansion in the secluded town of Hemizuka. Intrigued by the mysteries surrounding her family and the legend of the mountain god, Kei embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets hidden within her ancestral home. Along the way, Kei encounters Yumei, a girl with a connection to the mystical world, and together they delve deeper into the enigma that binds them. Featuring beautiful artwork, evocative music, and multiple branching storylines, "Akai Ito" offers a rich visual and narrative experience. The choices made by players will shape Kei's journey, leading to different outcomes and endings that reflect the complexities of love, sacrifice, and personal growth.

About Aoi Shiro: "Aoi Shiro" is a Japanese adventure game that takes place in both the modern real world and a mythical realm. The story is presented from the perspective of Shouko Osanai, a girl who serves as the head of the kendo club at Seijo Gakuin. In this adventure game, players navigate through the story and make choices using a mouse or a controller. The game mechanics are straightforward, with no complex operations required. Depending on the choices made by the player, the story progresses differently, ultimately affecting the fate of the main character. The game boasts a total of 56 endings, comprising 36 bad endings, 14 normal endings, and 6 true endings. As players complete certain routes, new choices and storylines become available through a system known as "root seal." The story begins with Shouko Osanai's arrival at Shoushin Temple in Unasaka, a distant location in the southern region, for the kendo club's training camp. One evening, while walking along the beach, Shouko and Yasumi Aizawa, the club manager, come across a girl lying in the sand. Syouko rescues the girl, named Nami, and a strong bond forms between Nami, Shouko, and Yasumi. This encounter becomes a pivotal moment, forever altering Shouko's fate and setting in motion a series of life-changing events for Shouko. Overall, "Aoi Shiro" offers an immersive adventure game experience, where the player's choices shape the narrative, leading to various outcomes and multiple endings.

Features:  Compelling visual novel gameplay with a captivating storyline Beautifully rendered anime-style graphics Multiple branching paths and endings based on player choices Two Games in one package Remastered in HD Engaging dialogue and immersive narrative Aoi Shiro includes the Bonus Game: Onigiri no Oni

Limited Editions: Strictly Limited Games is giving Akai Ito & Aoi Shiro HD Remaster the boxed legacy it deserves, with two unique limited editions, available for pre-order exclusively via the Strictly Limited Games online shop.  The Limited Edition is limited to a maximum of 2,500 copies for Nintendo Switch, at a price of 34.99€, including a colourful game manual.

The Special Limited Edition is limited to a maximum of 1,500 copies for Nintendo Switch for 59.99€, including lots of additional collectibles:  Game for Nintendo Switch with a Reversible Cover Special Edition Box Colorful Game Manual  Original Soundtrack on 4 CDs Reversible Poster Two Postcards

HROT review

HROT

Developed/Published by: Spytihněv

Date of Release: May 16, 2023

Price: $19.99

Hrot, the new retro old-school FPS, is a delightful journey back to the golden era of first-person shooters. Coming from the independent developer Spytihněv, this game expertly captures the essence of classic FPS titles while offering modern enhancements that make it an absolute joy to play. From the moment you launch Hrot, it's evident that the developers poured their heart and soul into creating an authentic retro experience. The pixelated graphics and low-fi aesthetic instantly transport you to the 90s, invoking nostalgia for the days of Quake. Every level is carefully designed, with intricate details and ambience that add depth and immersion to the game world.

The gameplay in Hrot is a true homage to the old-school FPS genre. You'll find yourself facing hordes of enemies, armed with an impressive arsenal of weapons, from shotguns and machine guns to grenade launchers and more. The gunplay is fast-paced, precise, and incredibly satisfying. It requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking, just like the classics that inspired it. The controls are smooth and responsive, allowing for precise aiming and movement. The level design incorporates verticality and hidden paths, rewarding exploration and offering multiple approaches to each encounter. The game also features a variety of power-ups, secrets, and collectibles, encouraging replayability and discovery.

One of the standout aspects of Hrot is its phenomenal sound design. The retro-inspired soundtrack perfectly complements the intense action, adding to the adrenaline rush as you mow down enemies. The sound effects, from the satisfying blast of a shotgun to the guttural growls of approaching foes, are meticulously crafted, further immersing you in the game's atmosphere. Despite its retro aesthetics, Hrot doesn't shy away from modern conveniences. The game offers a variety of difficulty settings, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans of the genre can enjoy the experience at their own pace. However if there's one minor drawback to Hrot, it's the relatively short length of the main campaign. However, this is quickly overshadowed by the high-quality experience packed into each level.

In conclusion, Hrot is an outstanding retro FPS that seamlessly blends the best elements of classic shooters with modern enhancements. Its lovingly crafted pixel art, engaging gameplay, and superb sound design create an immersive experience that will satisfy both veterans and newcomers to the genre. Spytihněv has successfully resurrected the spirit of old-school shooters and delivered a game that answers the question "what if Quake was a product of Soviet-era Czechoslovakia?", and certainly deserves a place among the classics. If you're a fan of the golden age of first-person shooters or simply looking for a captivating and nostalgic gaming experience, Hrot is an absolute must-play. Prepare to embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey that pays tribute to gaming's roots while offering a fresh and exhilarating adventure.

System Shock Remake Review

System Shock Remake
Developed by: Nightdive Studios

Published by: Prime Matter

Date of Release: May 30, 2023

Price: $39.99

Back in the mid 90's when I was still quite young my grandparents took me to Walmart to pick out some PC games for my birthday, as they had a massive bin of clearance titles. I ended up with quite a haul... Final Doom, Electro Man, Ultima Underworld 1&2, Syndicate Plus, and this one game with a rather creepy looking cyborg on the front... "System Shock". The other games ended up being pretty good, but none sucked me in quite as much as Looking Glass's sci-fi magnum opus. Now here we are in the year 2023, and System Shock has at last been updated for modern times.

The gaming industry has seen its fair share of remakes and remasters over the years, but few titles have generated as much anticipation and excitement (not to mention salt over the Kickstarter campaign!) as the remake of System Shock. With it's original release in 1994, System Shock was a groundbreaking game that blended elements of first-person shooters and dungeon crawling RPGs, pretty much birthing the immersive sim genre. Now, Nightdive Studios has undertaken the ambitious task of revitalizing this beloved classic. In this review, we delve into the intricacies of the System Shock remake to see how it measures up to the original and whether it successfully captures the essence of, and lives up to the reputation of the iconic cyberpunk adventure.

Diving right in you'll notice that one of the most noticeable improvements in the System Shock remake is its visually stunning presentation. The developers have transformed the dated graphics of the original into a modern, immersive experience. The updated environments are rich in detail, featuring intricate textures (with a glorious retro pixel aesthetic baked in), dynamic lighting, and impressive special effects. The revamped Citadel Station now feels that much more alive and foreboding, effectively creating a sense of isolation and dread.

Furthermore, the developers have paid great attention to enhancing the dark and atmospheric tone that made the original so memorable. From the flickering lights and haunting audio cues to the eerie sound design, the remake expertly captures the unsettling ambiance of the original game. Exploring the station's twisted corridors and encountering its horrifying inhabitants is an intense and chilling experience, just as it was in the original.

While the remake remains faithful to the core gameplay mechanics that defined the original, it also introduces several improvements and modernizations to enhance the overall experience. The controls have been revamped to provide more fluid and responsive movement, making combat and exploration feel more intuitive. The inclusion of modern conveniences like quick-saving and an improved user interface and inventory system inspired by the sequel System Shock 2 also streamline the overall gameplay experience without sacrificing the challenge and depth of the original. Moreover, Nightdive Studios has taken the opportunity to refine certain gameplay elements. The combat mechanics have been reworked to provide a better balance between gunplay and melee combat, ensuring that players have viable options in dealing with the station's threats.

System Shock's narrative has always been one of its strongest aspects, told through the myriad of voice logs and data entries strewn throughout the station, and the remake manages to faithfully recreate the intricate and engrossing storyline. The game effortlessly weaves together elements of cyberpunk, horror, and science fiction to create a captivating and immersive world. The iconic antagonist, SHODAN, is as menacing and memorable as ever, and the remake successfully captures the sense of dread and unpredictability associated with this rogue AI. The voice acting and audio design deserve special praise, as they breathe new life into the game's cast of characters. The voice actors deliver convincing performances, adding depth and personality to the inhabitants of Citadel Station. Combined with the atmospheric soundtrack, the audio design serves to immerse players even further into the haunting world of System Shock.

When it comes right down to it, despite the extended development time and Kickstarter controversies, the System Shock remake is a labor of love that pays homage to a timeless classic while perfectly modernizing it for a new generation of players. Nightdive Studios has successfully captured the spirit of the original game, offering improved visuals, refined gameplay mechanics, and an immersive atmosphere. While some die-hard fans may have reservations about certain changes, overall, the remake stays true to the essence of System Shock, delivering a captivating and unforgettable experience. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, the System Shock remake is an adventure that shouldn't be missed. I'm certainly glad I could be along for this wild ride.