Bloodshore Review: A Unique Fusion of B-Movie FMV And Influencer Battle Royale

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Of all the video game genres that are making a comeback, the FMV genre’s resurgence is perhaps the most surprising. Spearheaded by publisher Wales Interactive and developer The Complex, Good Gate Media is adding another game to its growing FMV library. Bloodshore, a unique blend of B-Movie FMV and Influencer Battle Royale, is a standout in this revival.

Bloodshore - Live News from Competition — Bloodshore – Live News from Competition

Kill/Stream: When Battle Royale Meets Reality TV.

Its inspiration is a game space TV show called Kill/Stream, where fifty participants are dropped onto a Fortnite-style island and must kill each other for a chance at money, the amount of which could change their lives. Although Kill/Stream started with prisoners on death row, here it is open to the public to compete for the money and fame that comes with it.

Satirical Survival: Influencers Fight for Fame

Bloodshore effectively uses a structural template similar to that of Battle Royale The Running Man, and, of course, the latest notable example, Squid Game. Bloodshore has a certain satirical angle that subtly feeds into the idea of people watching others suffer for their entertainment. It’s not the most pervasive example in the subgenre, but it still works quite well. This isn’t helped by the (albeit intentional) overacting of many of the actors, with a not-so-resolved exuberance that reinforces the play’s status as something not to be taken entirely seriously. The most prominent contestants are a bunch of vloggers and influencers, while the main character is a former star of a series of Twilight-style movies. At the same time, the action is regularly discussed in the news, including audience reactions and TV shows dissecting every new development that somehow fits the overall tone.

Missing Pieces: The Character Diversity Problem

That said, Bloodshore does feel a bit chaotic, and part of this is due to the highly specialized set of characters the player follows, as only one of the initial group sits outside of the media industry. Having people from different backgrounds could have made it more interesting because many influencers with generally comfortable lifestyles don’t work so well with Kill/Stream’s goal of manipulating genuinely desperate people.

Choose or Die: Interactive Storytelling Mechanics.

From a gameplay standpoint, Bloodshore works more or less as it should, though those expecting a high level of control won’t be thrilled with the FMV experience. The player will make various choices that will pop up occasionally, further making avenues for branching the storyline that the player can choose. Although the result of most outcomes is the same, especially at the end of the game, there are actually more choices than in most FMV games, adding another layer of replayability. Bloodshore also allows the player to see how their choices affect the game, such as audience opinion or team morale, suggesting how they might play the game differently with subsequent playthroughs.

Production Values: Between Woods and Violence

Bloodshore’s central gameplay loop and story are solid, but the game’s execution is not without its flaws. The game’s pride in the quality of its shots is evident, but the editing could be more consistent. The frequent scenes of walking through the woods, reminiscent of the Hunger Games, can sometimes detract from the overall experience. However, the moments of ultra-violence, while sparse, are visually impressive.

Conclusion of Bloodshore

Overall, Bloodshore is still one of the better examples of the FMV genre. It can even be quite entertaining in places. The game does have its problems, but as a crazy piece of B-movie entertainment, it’s worth playing at least once to find the various story paths to the very end that your own decisions will lead you to.

About Bloodshore

Title: Bloodshore
Type of Game: Interactive FMV / Battle Royale Drama
Developer: Wales Interactive
Publisher: Wales Interactive
Released: November 3, 2021
Platforms Available: PC, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, iOS
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5

Where to Buy Bloodshore

Steam (PC): Available now for $14.99.
Epic Games Store (PC): Available for $14.99.
PlayStation Store (PS4, PS5): Available for $12.99.
Xbox Store (Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S): Available for $14.99.
Nintendo eShop (Switch): Available for $6.74.
App Store (iOS): Available for free, in-app purchases available.
Google Play(Android): Available for free, in-app purchases available.

Squirrel With a Gun – The Goat Simulator But Squirrel

Action Game

By

Petko

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

It may sound like a bizarre concept, but in Squirrel with a Gun, you embody a squirrel who wields a gun and dives into combat. This offbeat 3D sandbox is akin to other unconventional titles like Untitled Goose Game or Goat Simulator – games that turn gaming norms on their head and offer a unique, fun experience. But the burning question remains – will it be captivating enough to keep you hooked for more than just a brief play session?

The Story of Squirrel

The story of Squirrel with a Gun begins with a scene where our little heroine sneaks into a secret lab. There, she discovers a mysterious object shaped like a golden nut, but it is protected by a force field. Thus, The lab serves as a tutorial in which the player learns the basics of controlling a squirrel and key elements such as collecting weapons and shooting. After deactivating the barrier, the Squirrel takes possession of the experimental nut. Still, at that point, agents similar to those in, say, The Matrix, appear and the fight begins.

The agents, who don’t mind shooting even passersby if they’re in their way, become your main enemies. When you defeat them, you earn peanuts, used as currency to buy equipment, including new weapons or remote-controlled cars. You can also earn peanuts by letting the locals admire your cuteness. Sometimes it’s weird, though, when a crowd of admirers follows you around. As well as weapons and combat, of course, the Squirrel has its natural abilities – climbing trees, jumping long distances, and climbing tall poles to decipher the position of golden nuts in the area. Golden nuts are key to unlocking better equipment, from useful suits to cool accessories such as fake eyebrows or different fur colors.

Visuals of Squirrel

Visually, Squirrel with a Gun is a treat for the eyes. The game, powered by the latest version of Unreal Engine, is a visual delight in every aspect. The adorable Squirrel, donning various outfits, pops off the screen – especially when he’s sporting his signature big eyebrows and beret. The dynamic music, changing with the action, adds to the game’s charm, ranging from classical tunes to jazz, and even heavy metal during intense boss battles.

The City of Squirrel

The city you navigate is a little small, but it hides various details and curiosities. For example, you may come across houses that resemble obstacle courses, similar to the show The Floor is Lava. You’ll even have to extend some jumps over obstacles by shooting into the ground, giving you a higher bounce. The technique is quite demanding in terms of accuracy – the platforming sections are well thought out in their design. Still, they are tricky and require frequent repetition of sequences, which will get tiresome over time. It’ll take you around five to six hours to play 100%, some of which will be spent testing out various tricks, such as driving a remote-controlled car in slow mode.

Conclusion of Squirrel

Squirrel with Gun is definitely a hilarious title that just doesn’t take itself seriously. The game runs on a mature engine, doesn’t lack humor, and the gameplay, while not particularly varied, is laced with decent ideas and honestly designed levels. However, it’s not a game for many long evenings and quickly becomes repetitive.

About Squirrel With a Gun

Title: Squirrel With a Gun
Type of Game: Comedy Action / Sandbox
Developer: Dee Dee Creations
Publisher: Maximum Entertainment
Released: August 29, 2024
Platforms Available: PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Level of Maturity: Teen 13+

Where to Buy Squirrel with a Gun

Steam (PC): Available now for $19.99.
Epic Games Store (PC): Available now for $13.99.
Xbox Store (Xbox Series X/S): Available for $13.99 in discount normaly $19.99.
PlayStation Store (PS5): Available for $19.99.

Official Page: Visit the official Steam page for more information.
Subreddit: Join discussions on the Squirrel With a Gun Subreddit.

Squirrel with a Gun - Combat Against the Agents — Squirrel with a Gun – Combat Against the Agents
Squirrel with a Gun – Combat Against the Agents

Squirrel with a Gun - First Weapon — Squirrel with a Gun – First Weapon
Squirrel with a Gun – First Weapon

Squirrel with a Gun - Golden Nut — Squirrel with a Gun – Golden Nut
Squirrel with a Gun – Golden Nut

Squirrel with a Gun - Melee Finisher — Squirrel with a Gun – Melee Finisher
Squirrel with a Gun – Melee Finisher

Squirrel with a Gun - Pistol Finisher — Squirrel with a Gun – Pistol Finisher
Squirrel with a Gun – Pistol Finisher

Squirrel with a Gun - Sailing Boat in the Pool — Squirrel with a Gun – Sailing Boat in the Pool
Squirrel with a Gun – Sailing Boat in the Pool

Squirrel with a Gun - Squirrel Rage — Squirrel with a Gun – Squirrel Rage
Squirrel with a Gun – Squirrel Rage

Squirrel with a Gun - Squirrel Rebel in the Streets — Squirrel with a Gun – Squirrel Rebel in the Streets
Squirrel with a Gun – Squirrel Rebel in the Streets

Squirrel with a Gun -Appearance Customization
Squirrel with a Gun -Appearance Customization

The First Motorcycle in History of Need For Speed Has Arrived

Need For Speed

By

Petko

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21 November, 2024

Need for Speed Unbound - BMW S 1000 RR The first motorcycle of the Series

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Need for Speed: Unbound may have been released back in December 2022, but Criterion Games is still not letting up in its support. And the latest update is really interesting, as it brings a motorcycle into the game for the first time in the series’ history. The new additions to the game will arrive on November 26, and among other things, the developers are also attracting the ’99 Subaru Impreza WRX STI and the ’98 Honda Integra Type R. Already in the previous expansion, the game has grown to include Hot Pursuit-like police chases. The authors continue to develop this content.

Need for Speed Unbound - Mercedes Benz Always Strive — Need for Speed Unbound – Mercedes Benz Always Strive

The new features are inspired by 2005’s Need for Speed: Most Wanted. A new PvPvE multiplayer mode, Lockdown has arrived in the game, where teams of up to three players fight for loot, complete various missions and try to escape the cops. This way, players can get their hands on 15 cars from Most Wanted. Be sure also to check out the stylish new trailer below, which will give you a much better idea of how the news looks in action.

Need For Speed Unbound: Volume 9 Reveal Trailer

The big news is the aforementioned 2019 BMW S 1000 RR motorcycle, available in Lockdown mode and special PvP motorcycle playlists. Criterion has also previously tested the bikes in Burnout Paradise races. Still, I was quite surprised to see it “just so” appear in a two-year-old game, as there must have been a lot of work behind crafting a completely different racing machine. But there are other interesting new features heading to the game as well, a full list of which can be found in the post on the official website below.

Star Wars Outlaws: Major 1.4 Patch Arrives Alongside “Wild Card” Story DLC

Star Wars Outlaws

By

Petko

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21 November, 2024

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Game’s Overhaul and Reception

Ubisoft is working to address the lukewarm reception of Star Wars Outlaws. The action-adventure game failed to meet both player and reviewer expectations at launch, including our own, and is considered a financial disappointment. Studio Massive is determined to rectify these issues with today’s (November 21, 2024) major update 1.4, launching alongside the first story expansion titled “Wild Card.”

Combat System Improvements

Patch 1.4 brings significant changes primarily focused on the combat system and overall action experience. The developers have completely revamped weapon mechanics and enemy behavior. Headshots are now more effective, enemies feature specific weaknesses, and their statistics have been reworked to make each opponent type feel unique. The tactical element is enhanced by the ability to target enemy vulnerabilities.

Weapon and Gameplay Enhancements

Weapons have undergone statistical adjustments, including recoil, accuracy, fire rate, and overall “feel” of shooting. The creators have also improved the audiovisual effects of weapons, making combat more intense and enjoyable. New blaster modules, such as the energy module, allow players to pierce enemy cover, while the ion module paralyzes opponents for extended periods and makes them more vulnerable. The cover system has also been modified – players can now transition between cover positions more smoothly, camera stability has been improved, and switching between left and right shoulder aiming is now possible. New animations contribute to improved game fluidity.

Expanded Player Freedom

Players can now further customize their environmental interactions – for example, Kay will no longer discard weapons collected from enemies while climbing. The developers have also added more approaches to situations – from stealth to open confrontation, expanding player freedom.

Wild Card DLC

Launching alongside Patch 1.4, the Wild Card DLC introduces new missions, storylines, and the return of the familiar character Lando Calrissian. The DLC focuses on expanding the game world and story depth, promising more exploration opportunities and new challenges for players. Ubisoft believes players will give Star Wars Outlaws another chance after these extensive changes and new content. The developers claim the game will be more entertaining, diverse, and offer more ways to enjoy the sci-fi world post-update.

Sony in Advanced Talks to Acquire FromSoftware’s Parent Company: Future of Souls Games on Xbox Hangs in Balance

Sony&FromSoftware

By

Petko

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20 November, 2024

Breaking News: Acquisition Talks in Japan

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Sony is in advanced negotiations to acquire Kadokawa Corporation, the media conglomerate that owns the renowned studio FromSoftware, creators of Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and Elden Ring. Reuters reports this information from two sources close to the negotiations. The deal is expected to be signed in the coming weeks. While Sony declined to comment on the inquiry, Kadokawa’s spokesperson stated they cannot comment at this time. Sony previously acquired a 2% stake in Kadokawa and a 14.09% stake in FromSoftware. Kadokawa Corporation’s portfolio includes development studios ACQUIRE, Gotcha Games, and Spike Chunsoft, along with various franchises and products, including anime and toys. The market value before this news was $2.7 billion.

Impact on Gaming Future of Elden Ring and Others

The primary concern for fans is the future of Elden Ring if the acquisition succeeds. The souls-like action RPG has sold over 20 million copies. A crucial question remains: Will Sony make FromSoftware its dedicated studio, or will it operate independently like Bungie was supposed to (before project development issues)? This decision will determine whether Xbox players will see future souls-like hits. It’s worth noting that FromSoftware owns the rights to Elden Ring.

Upcoming Projects and Speculation

According to recent unverified reports from insider Shpeshal Nick of the XboxEra podcast, FromSoftware may be working on Dark Souls 3 Remastered. While fans particularly desire a new version of Bloodborne, FromSoftware’s CEO has long maintained that all Bloodborne-related decisions rest with Sony.