Showing posts with label Nintendo Switch. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nintendo Switch. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Paper Mario: The Origami King Review (with spoilers)

April 17, 2024 0 Comments
Do note that this blog post may contain product affiliate links. If you purchase something through a link on this blog post, we may receive a commission, which goes into the upkeep of this blog.

Paper Mario: The Origami King is the sixth installment in the Paper Mario series. It was released on the Nintendo Switch worldwide on 17 July 2020. The game follows Mario, who opposes an evil army of origami characters known as Folded Soldiers. They are ruled by the Origami King, King Olly.


This was my first experience with the Paper Mario series, and the ring-based system used to solve puzzles was a pretty interesting and novel way to play a game. Some gamers have said that it is a bit repetitive and pointless, but I think it's a relaxing way to play a game for the first time. 


Your brain does not overwork itself trying to solve complex puzzles, and you have fun while following along the storyline (which by the way was pretty nice). The motion controls are relatively easy enough compared to the likes to Mario Odyssey or Zelda, so it's the perfect game for a first timer too. 


Oh and did I mention that the animation and art transition is simply beautiful? The way Olivia transforms and folds herself into an elemental is a treat for the eyes!


So back to the game's storyline.... In order to bring back the world to its original form, Mario together which his new friend, Olivia travel throughout the Kingdom to defeat the Folded Soldiers and their overlord, King Olly.

The battle ring system might be rather repetitive at times, but getting those coins for shopping and confetti to fill up the holes was a motivation. It did help that the battles with the big bosses were more challenging and different from the usual. Instead of sliding the boss into position, you have to create routes for Mario to follow so that he can step on buttons to activate abilities to trump the bosses. 

Depending on the direction he can turn certain abilities on. Once turned on, he can use the special abilities. The challenging part is that you need to get him to land on an attack icon to deliver a devastating blow. Miscalculating your movements or land on the wrong button might be a regular occurrence and Mario might not be able to attack.

There are 5 streamers (big bosses to defeat): RedBlueYellowPurple, and Green.

[Paper Mario Walkthrough Guide] -> this was a life saver clearing some of the challenging stages.


The journey to each streamer leads to a different part of the kingdom and simply exploring the areas are a visual treat. Along the way, they pick up a Bob-omb with amnesia, whom Olivia names Bobby. He helps in some battles and is really handy to have around. 



What I was not expecting was him sacrificing himself to save Olivia after he regains back his memory. I was totally not expecting that. I thought it was a happy feels game... till Bobby blew himself up. I did get quite attached to that little bomb. 😭


After getting over my virtual grief (for about a month), there were some quirky characters which also grew on me. The Professor, who is a Toad who can dig up coins and treasure! If only I had someone like this in real life, my bank account would also be plush.


In addition, Olivia, whom some (experienced) players might find irritating as she pops up to guide Mario (the player) to certain points in the game; too much hand holding they think. However, if this is your very first game, she is the perfect guide and to be honest, I kind of grew fond of her as we travelled the Kingdom defeating the foes. Just like Bobby, I was totally not expecting her (pointless) end. Yes, you read that right... she "died". 😭😭😭

Of course they have an alternative or true ending, but both King Olly and Olivia are shown as origami people in their origami castle and it's up to you to imagine they are happily ever after. 



Verdict: 3.5/5


After 55+ hours invested into this game and after reaching the ending, I can say this game started out as a fun narrative with plenty of exciting locations and ended up a little bittersweet. As I progressed along the story, I started to get attached to the characters that when I realized they were no longer, it left a virtual void in my virtual heart. 💔

Because of what happened to Bobby, it took me awhile before I could continue on and complete the game. While I enjoyed the mechanics, gameplay and adorable paper animations, the ending could have been better. For a children's game, the theme starts out fun and cute but ends on a heavy note with a badly worded wish which ruined everything (for me).

Happier times with Bobby 

Also, the whole premise was a little weird: a Toad who is so good at making origami folded the antagonist, Olly, and using a forbidden technique gives him life only for his creation to turn on him. Olly is Olivia's brother, but he is the one who folded her and used the same technique to bring her to life. So instead of being Olivia's brother won't he considered more like a father? But no, he is her brother.... who then goes on to cause havoc to the Mushroom Kingdom and Olivia aims to set it right as it originally was, sacrificing herself in the process.


A little google search also turned up some depressing news that as cute as the Paper Mario Series sounds, the endings are always "bad". The accompanying "new" characters never survive and must always sacrifice themselves for the greater good (of the storyline).  I mean.. like why though? 


Does it have to have that morale to the story in order to make it a good game where such a (pointless) sacrifice is needed? 


Life is already riddled with it's own challenge's so why would someone knowingly want to pay to play a depressing series which is disguised as adorable is beyond me. I am not against bad endings, they just have to make sense to be good. 


At the very least they could scripted the game better, and given it a more satisfying ending which makes more sense. Then again, maybe that is why they included the alternate "happier" ending which still was lackluster. 


Why do the accompanying mascot characters of the Paper Mario Series always have to sacrifice themselves for the greater good even if there could have been a better ending? Just because they will not have their own game series does not mean they have to be "killed off". They could happily live in their virtual worlds and avoid such needless "deaths" with the right smart choices.


Paper Mario: The Origami King might be the game for you if you like the bizarre charm found within Mario's world and love participating in puzzles. Also if you can stomach the not so satisfying ending.  I would have loved it if the ending was more conclusive and obviously not just means to an end with the wrong choice of words and a whole lot of naivety on Olivia's part. 


Under S$60 at Shopee




Have you played Paper Mario: The Origami King yet? If so, what are your thoughts about it? Let us know in the comments below!


Monday, November 20, 2023

Review: Pokemon Snap (Nintendo Switch)

November 20, 2023 0 Comments

Pokemon fans, both old and new, can easily get into playing Pokemon Snap for the Nintendo Switch. This sequel to the classic N64 game from 1999 promises a fresh take on photography and adventure in the Pokemon universe. As an avid Pokémon enthusiast and a photography enthusiast myself, I couldn't wait to dive into this game and see if it lives up to the hype. In this review, I'll share my thoughts on Pokemon Snap for the Nintendo Switch.


Pokemon Snap for the Nintendo Switch is an absolute visual treat for the eyes. The game takes full advantage of the Switch's hardware capabilities, offering stunningly detailed and vibrant environments. Each level, referred to as an "island," is brimming with life and charm. 


The Pokemon themselves are beautifully animated, and their behaviors and interactions feel incredibly authentic. You'll be awestruck by the picturesque landscapes, whether you're exploring dense jungles, shimmering oceans, or icy tundras. The level of detail and creativity put into each island truly captures the essence of the Pokemon world.



Gameplay:

The heart of Pokemon Snap is, of course, photography. You will be embarking on expeditions guided by Professor Mirror, tasked with capturing the perfect shots of Pokemon in their natural habitats. The game encourages you to be patient, observant, and creative. 


Your photo expedition begins with just a camera, but as you progress, you'll unlock a set of handy tools to enhance your photography experience. These tools include edible fluffruit, luminescent illumina orbs, a music player, a scanning feature to elicit unique reactions, and an accelerator to keep up with swift Pokemon. While each tool has its uses, the illumina orbs stand out as the most unexpected. They can activate crystabloom flowers, luring Pokemonor even altering the course dynamics. Additionally, you can throw illumina orbs directly at Pokemon, causing them to radiate with a captivating glow. While many Pokemon may not react significantly to the orbs, a select few will surprise you with their responses.


The mechanics are pretty easy to grasp, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. The challenge lies in taking the best shots. There's a rewarding sense of accomplishment when you finally get that perfect picture of a Pokemon in action; it's all about timing which is challenging to get at times.


Although I have to add that while the mechanics are relatively easy, if you are prone to motion sickness then go slow or play in short bursts rather than a long session. I initially played for more than an hour and found myself dizzy with maneuvering the camera Pokemon; espcially when it was docked. I found that sessions of 30 minutes or less were much better.


That said, one of the highlights of Pokemon Snap is the wide variety of Pokemon you will encounter. From the beloved classics like Pikachu and Charizard to newer additions, the game offers a diverse roster of creatures to photograph. As you progress, you'll unlock new areas and behaviors, adding a layer of excitement and anticipation to each playthrough



Exploration and Discovery:

One of the most enjoyable aspects of  Pokemon Snap is the sense of exploration and discovery. You never know what you might find around the next corner or beyond that dense thicket. The game encourages multiple playthroughs as you strive to capture every Pokemon species and observe unique interactions. This adds replayability and depth to the experience, making you want to return to the islands time and again.



Interaction with Pokémon:

In addition to capturing photos, you can also interact with Pokemon by tossing them Fluffruit (fruity snacks) or playing music to get playful reactions. These interactions add a layer of charm and unpredictability to the game. It's adorable to see how different Pokemon react to your presence and the offerings you provide.



Online Features:

The online features of  Pokemon Snap enhance the sense of community among players. You can share your favorite photos, compete in ranking battles (for the best photo of course), and even see the photos taken by others in your friend list. It's a fantastic way to connect with fellow Pokemon enthusiasts and compare your photography skills.


Verdict: 3/5

In the end, Pokemon Snap  for the Nintendo Switch delivers a delightful experience. It successfully captures the magic of the Pokemon world and combines it with the joy of photography. The beautiful visuals, engaging gameplay, and the sheer number of Pokemon to discover make it a must-play for fans of the franchise. 


Whether you're a long-time Pokémon Trainer or a newcomer, Pokemon Snap is a game that will make you feel like a part of the Pokémon world. So grab your camera and embark on a memorable journey to snap 'em all!



Should you get it?

While Pokemon Snap for the Nintendo Switch is generally well-received, it's essential to acknowledge that no game is without its flaws. Some potential drawbacks include:

  1. Limited Gameplay Depth: "Pokémon Snap" primarily focuses on photography and exploration. If you're looking for traditional Pokémon battles and deep RPG elements, you may find the gameplay somewhat shallow.
  2. Repetition: The game encourages replayability by revisiting the same areas multiple times to capture different Pokémon behaviors. Some players might find this repetition less engaging over time.
  3. Short Playtime: The main storyline of "Pokémon Snap" can be completed relatively quickly, leaving some players wishing for more content or longer gameplay.
  4. Lack of Evolution: Unlike the original N64 game, "Pokémon Snap" for the Nintendo Switch does not feature the ability for Pokémon to evolve, which might disappoint some fans who enjoyed this feature in the original.
  5. Limited Multiplayer Interaction: While there are online features for sharing photos and competing in ranking battles, the multiplayer interactions are somewhat limited, and players cannot directly interact with each other in real-time.
  6. It's important to note that the appeal of "Pokémon Snap" largely depends on your expectations and what you enjoy in a game. While it may have some shortcomings, it excels in delivering a unique and enjoyable photography and exploration experience in the Pokémon universe.



Thursday, October 19, 2023

Top 10 Nintendo Switch games this week (Japan)

October 19, 2023 0 Comments

 
The latest Japanese boxed-video game hardware and software charts have been released for October 9th, 2023 to October 15th, 2023.


The best-selling game this week in Japan is the recently release and delightful Detective Pikachu Returns, which sold an additional 16K copies on the Nintendo Switch and it is followed by the charming Pikmin 4 Speaking of the Nintendo Switch, it was the best-selling platform, selling a comfortable 44,469 units. 


Here’s the best-sellers in the land of the rising sun:

  1. [NSW] Detective Pikachu Returns (The Pokemon Company, 10/06/23) – 16,248 (101,887)
  2. [NSW] Pikmin 4 (Nintendo, 07/21/23) – 14,114 (912,398)
  3. [NSW] The Game of Life for Nintendo Switch (Takara Tomy, 10/06/23) – 13,443 (43,710)
  4. [NSW] Rear Sekai (Bushiroad Games, 10/12/23) – 6,464 (New)
  5. [NSW] Pokemon Scarlet / Pokemon Violet (The Pokemon Company, 11/18/22) – 6,381 (5,157,822)
  6. [NSW] Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo, 04/28/17) – 6,253 (5,514,955)
  7. [NSW] Minecraft (Microsoft, 06/21/18) – 5,898 (3,286,698)
  8. [NSW] River City: Rival Showdown (Arc System Works, 10/12/23) – 5,722 <strong(New)
  9. [NSW] Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Nintendo, 12/07/18) – 4,566 (5,304,914)
  10. [NSW] EA Sports FC 24 (Electronic Arts, 09/29/23) – 4,557 (27,046)

Hardware Sales (followed by lifetime sales)

  1. Switch OLED Model – 34,471 (5,832,653)
  2. PlayStation 5 – 18,565 (3,920,351)
  3. Switch – 5,170 (19,571,417)
  4. Switch Lite – 4,828 (5,522,561)
  5. PlayStation 4 – 2,054 (7,900,950)
  6. PlayStation 5 Digital Edition – 1,144 (588,041)
  7. Xbox Series X – 609 (224,410)
  8. Xbox Series S – 477 (289,738)
  9. New 2DS LL (including 2DS) – 85 (1,192,508)

Source / Via

Sunday, October 1, 2023

Top 5 Cheap Switch Accessories You Definitely Need

October 01, 2023 0 Comments

When you first get your Nintendo Switch, you might need to get some accessories such as screen protectors and cases to protect your precious new toy. Here is a list of the top 5 you should get at affordable prices too. 

Do note that this blog post may contain product affiliate links. If you purchase something through a link on this blog post, we may receive a commission, which goes into the upkeep of this blog.


1) Tempered Glass Screen Protector for less than S$10

Buy Now

Before you even use your Switch, this should be your number 1 item, especially if scratches are not really your thing. The Switch is a handheld machine, so at some point in time you are going to get a scratch or 2 on it whenporting it around (and docking / undocking). Having a screen protector will also protect your screen from the Switch TV Dock, which might scratch your Switch display.

Get yours for just $2.99 - $5.99!


2) External Memory Card for less than S$20 / $80


The Switch comes with only 32GB worth of space, and by the time you start it up, at least another 4GB or so are taken up by the system. So getting extra storage is key. While you can still buy games on cartridges for the Switch, some titles might need extra storage, and if you intend on going digital then all the more you need a Memory Card.
 
You can get a 64GB card for less than S$20 and a 256GB card is less than S$80

Also with the double date and festive sales, it can even get cheaper with promotions and vouchers.


3) Case & Screen Protector for less than S$10

If you are the kind of person who likes pretty things and cheap things, then you can also consider this pretty case.
Buy Now

The only downside of the pretty case is that the Switch cannot be docked when you put on the case. But that’s a small thing, as the case can be easily snapped on and off anytime (same for the joy con covers). The screen protector is also very easy to apply, so a bonus of sorts along with the cute cat paw print thumb grip caps!

For just less then S$10, you not only get the casing, but a tempered glass cover and two joy con grip covers as well. How’s that for a steal?

Of course, if you want something more cuter you can always get the decorated TPU covers for under S$10 (without the screen protector).
Buy Now

It you want a more ergonomic cover for your joy-con with themes like Mario or Pokemon, along with 2 matching thumb grip caps, then you should get this anti-slip silicone cover. For just under $3, you get a joy-con cover with a pair of matching thumb grips. 
Buy Now

Speaking of thumb grips, check out this selection of adorable joy-con thumb grip covers for just under S$3 for 2 pairs!
Buy Now

 

4) Extra Joy-Cons for less than S$60

If you want to play with your family or friends, then you definitely would need to get an extra pair of joy-cons. But what to do if the original joy-cons are too pricey? Well, that would be where the Dobe joy-cons come in pretty handy (and for almost half the price of the original Nintendo joy-cons too).

Connection is easy and fast. It is thicker than the original joy-cons, so it has a better grip then the original joy-cons. The only thing is that there are no cases that will fit this joy-con, and charging is via its Type C port. But at this pricing it is perfect to get as a spare or for your 2nd / 3rd / n players.
Buy Now


Want something a little more cheaper (and cuter)? Then you should consider the Panda Joy-con for just S$48.

5) Pro-controller for less than $50

Get a Pro Controller, which is more comfortable to hold for extended periods as its ergonomic contoured grips make it a comfortable upgrade from the joy-cons. This pair from IINE are pretty affordable for less than $50!
 
If you think the wake up the switch function and using amiibo is not too critical for you, then you can get it for less than S$40!
 
There's even that cute puppy Joy-Con at an even budget friendlier price of S$28!


Which are your favorite Switch accessories? Let us know in the comments below!

~Comments, shares and follows are most definitely appreciated! 💬💞

Sunday, August 20, 2023

A Monster’s Expedition + Earlier Adventures Switch Physical Release

August 20, 2023 0 Comments

iam8bit announced in 2022 the release of A Monster’s Expedition + Earlier Adventures, a physical release containing four games. A Monster’s Expedition, Sokobond, Cosmic Express and A Good Snowman is Hard to Build will all be offered on a single physical cartridge. On top of that, each copy will include a number of physical extras.

Each copy comes with the following:
  • iam8bit Exclusive Edition
  • Four Award-Winning Unique Puzzle Games in One – A Monster’s Expedition, Cosmic Express, A Good Snowman is Hard to Build and Sokobond
  • Over 100 hours of unique, no-filler puzzles!
  • Includes an exclusive 18”x24” poster of the full world map from A Monster’s Expedition!
  • Exclusive cover sheet by Andre Rodrigues

If that wasn’t enough, fans can pick up the A Monster’s Expedition + Earlier Adventures Vinyl Soundtrack as well. This features music from Monster’s Expedition, Sokobond, Cosmic Express, and A Good Snowman Is Hard to Build. Music was done by Eli Rainsberry, Allison Walker, Nick Dymond, and Priscilla Snow, and there’s album art from Andre Rodrigues. 

You can order A Monster’s Expedition + Earlier Adventures as well as the new soundtrack from the here.

I wanted to get it from iam8bit but it was too pricey for close to SGD$95, just the shipping along was USD$14. Since I was not too interested in the poster (a pity about the cover sheet but it is what it is), I managed to get a deal at Amazon (with vouchers) for SGD$35! Though the cover is different and it does not come with any freebies, it's still cheaper than if I were to get it from iam8bit  and also cheaper than getting all the games digitally from the e-shop. 


Sunday, August 13, 2023

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet DLC Trailer Snippets: Release date, Past-Gen Starters & Much Much More

August 13, 2023 0 Comments
Who's excited for the DLC Updates for Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
The first half of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero is set to debut on 13 September 2023!

Here are some of the highlights:

1) Return of Past-Gen Starters and New Moves

In addition to the return of past-generation starters, here's a bit else about what's featured (via Serebii.net):
  • Psycic Noise is a new move which prevents the target healing.
  • The move Upper Hand strikes before a target's priority move
  • Raging Bolt is Electric/Dragon-type. It has the move Thunderclap that is a priority move
  • Iron Crown is Steel/Psychic-type. It has the move Tachyon Cutter which hits twice in a row
  • A new element of Terastallisation featuring all 18 types has also been teased


2) More Fashion Options 

The Teal Mask and The Indigo Disk’s latest trailer provides a little more detail about Kitakami, the new locale Pokémon Scarlet and Violet players will get to travel to as they participate in the town’s traditional Festival of Masks

3) New Pokémon and Characters

Besides the addition of a variety of new hairstyles and outfits that were not available in the games previously, the DLC features a storyline revolving around some new Pokémon - OkidogiMunkidori, and Fezandipiti - known as a the legendary trio “The Loyal Three” . And with all good there is Ogerpon, the “evil ogre” they protect Kitakami from.  

Kitakami is home to a variety of wild Pokémon from older generations that can’t be found in Paldea, aong with entirely new creatures like Dipplin, a new Applin evolution that resembles a candy apple while (presumably) still being a dragon type.

There's also introduction to new new characters like photographer Perrin. Perrin's photo-focused side quests will send players out into Kitakami’s wilderness to snap shots of wild Pokémon. With a new feature, Roto-stick, players will be able to take selfies from wider angles with the game’s built-in cameraphones.

Monday, August 7, 2023

Toki Tori Review (Nintendo Switch)

August 07, 2023 0 Comments

Toki Tori was originally about two decades ago in 2001 on the Game Boy Color, before seeing re-masters of sorts appear on the Wii and Wii U etc... I actually had my first encounter with this game on device called the Palm in the mid 2000s.


So imagine my delight when I got the Nintendo Switch and saw it on the e-shop... on sale! Of course I had to get it and relive my childhood.


It's a very rewarding yet challenging and fun puzzle game. You are tasked with guiding Toki Tori around 5 worlds and their multiple levels. To complete each level and progress to the next, you need to collect all of the eggs. All of this is to be accomplished with a set number of moves and abilities such as building bridges, freezing the enemies, and using blocks, bubble or teleportation etc... 

The first world is relatively simple and with each world and level you get introduced to new abilities. Of course the more you progress, the more challenging it becomes and solving the puzzle really takes some brain power. Thankfully there are videos online to help you out if you do get stuck on  certain levels and it gets somewhat frustrating as you find yourself sort on one bridge or teleport move to complete the level.


One of the features I love is the rewind button by simply pressing the 'Y' Button! This saves time having to restart the level all over again and you can just continue from where you think you made a mistake. It does bring the frustration level down a little but then having to start again from the beginning: you get to trial run some of the moves and redo them to get the right path to collect all the eggs.

There are 5 worlds which offer a set of regular levels. Once you have cleared the regular levels, the 'hard' and 'bonus' levels are unlocked. Both of these advanced levels are even more challenging and makes you really think out of the box, giving the most well-practiced puzzle experts a brain workout for sure. 


From World 2 onwards, there's a Wildcard option which enables you to pass on to the next level. You can only use this once and once you've spent it  you will need to complete the particular level it was used on in the future to have it returned to you. Of course there is the other alternative to search Google and find the solution online to see what you missed out. 


Toki Tori's difficulty is hard but rewarding when you manage to solve the puzzles: it forces you to plan out and execute each move to exact precision and timing, the wrong move could jeopardize the whole flow which results in a failed level. Unlike other puzzle games which are tricky due to infuriating mechanics which are out of your control, in Toki Tori you have more control per se. 


Some levels are relatively easy but others, especially as you progress, makes you wonder if it actually can be solved or not. The satisfaction comes from having solved or realizing what was the critical step to solve the level. Yes, even if you play cheat and find the solution from the countless of videos available on the internet it is still satisfying. 

Not only are the graphics and animation easy on the eyes, the soundtrack is adorable and catchy! So even if you are stuck on a certain level, it helps to soothe the frustration somewhat. 


Verdict: 4.5/5

Toki Tori is an adorably charming game which is fun and tricky at the same time. It really gives your brain a workout and the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment when is complete each level is indescribable: it's like you feel you gain more intelligence with each level you complete as you are forced  come up with perfect solutions throughout the game. 

It's totally worth the money, more so when it is one sale on the Nintendo e-shop.


So if you love yourself a good puzzle game, or simply want to have it on the Nintendo Switch, you should get it! 

Friday, May 19, 2023

Mini Review: Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion Nintendo Switch Game

May 19, 2023 0 Comments

 

About The Game

Take control of an adorable turnip who happens to be an absolute menace to society. After failing to pay taxes and getting evicted from your home, you must go on an epic quest to pay back your massive debt to Mayor Onion. Garden tools to solve plantastic puzzles, meet eccentric vegetables and fruits, and take on treacherous fights. Along the journey uncover what’s spoiling this garden community and rise to tear down the corrupt vegetable government!


So... I came across this game on sale the other day for just under USD$3 and the premise seemed interesting and adorable at the same time. Needless to say I downloaded the game and have started play, hence this is a mini review on the experience so far. 


Playing as a turnip trying to evade taxes and defeat a seeming corrupted onion as mayor seems fun a vegan world. As Turnip Boy, you can can evade as much tax as you like without any real world repercussions; it is a game after all. 


It's one of the cutest games I've played and the gameplay is easy to grasp for the most part. Once you manage to get the hang of the controls, you'd be defeating baddies and evading taxes like a pro. 

Some captures from my game progress so far

At start of the game Turnip Boy obtains a ‘soil sword’ along with a watering can.  The sword is used to attack against fearsome snails, piglets, and other dangerous but adorable (mostly vegetable eating) animals. The water can can also help water bombs, put too much water and you'd lose a few hearts. Alternating between the sword and watering can can be a bit cumbersome, but once you get used to it, it's a breeze. There are 2 options to alternate between items 


  1. Use the ‘L’ and ‘R’ is easy, OR
  2. Holding down ‘Y’ to access to inventory


There's also a move to throw the bombs in the direction you want to attack animals or blast doorways to open pathways. Time it right after you use the water can and kick it in the direction you want or risk being bombed yourself. 


The whole tax evasion thing is the theme, and the aim is to repay back the onion mayor by doing various tasks. While exploring the world, the other characters encountered will also give you mini-tasks with mini awards / achievements. It's relatively simple: task is given, go to location, complete task and return for the reward. The reward could be new items or abilities. 


There's a wide range of characters you’ll come across during your travels, all of which comprise different fruits or vegetables (it is a vegan world after all). There's dialogue and you can follow the storyline as well. It would have been better if there was indication of which characters would give you tasks and others just there for comic relieve. Having to approach each character to see if a bit cumbersome and can be a bit frustrating since you cannot skip past some pointless conversations. If you take your time to read each one, it is still a nice adorable little game. 


For those looking for something adorable and relatively easy, Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion is definitely worth a try. That said, although Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion is not too difficult, some of the boss battles and puzzles where you have to make use of multiple items may well pose a good challenge.


Verdict: 4/5

Overall, Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion is a delightful vegan adventure and I cannot wait to complete the game! 


If you’re after a chill and adorable game with a bit of RPG action, then look no further; this is a great way to get started and also get more digital veggies into your gaming diet.


Have you played Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion? If yes, let us know in the comments below how much you liked it (or not)! 


You can get the physical copy to keep or re-sale after you are done, or get it from the Nintendo e-shop when there're sales.

Monday, February 27, 2023

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet New DLC with 5 new Pokémon, including 2 legendaries

February 27, 2023 0 Comments
Image: Game Freak/The Pokémon Company

As part of a Pokémon Presents stream on MondayPokémon Scarlet and Violet are getting paid DLC and the first wave of the upcoming expansion is coming in fall 2023! 


It's called "The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero", and it is separated into 2parts and will take players beyond the existing Paldea Region as well as let them encounter new Pokémon.


There are 2 parts to this new adventure: 

Part 1 is called The Teal Mask, and will arrive first in the fall of 2023. It will take players on a school field trip to the land of Kitakami, a mountainous region with a village at the base. 


Part 2 is called The Indigo Disc and is slated to arrive sometime before the end of winter 2023”. It will take players to visit their sister school, Blueberry Academy


Although it is split into two parts, both stories will link up into one continuous narrative.


Check out the trailer below:


Which new Pokémon are coming to The Teal Mask and Indigo Disk?

In addition to experiencing new locations, The Hidden Treasure DLC will also feature new Legendaries and returning favorites. 


The Teal Mask’s Legendary, will feature Ogerpon with new Pokémon Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti also appearing alongside the likes of Chingling, Shiftry, Milotic, Ninetales, Vikavolt


The Indigo Disc will feature the Legendary Terapagos, alongside returning Pokémon Dewgong, Metagross, Alcremie, Espurr, Zebstrika, and Whimsiscott.


The Pokémon Company also revealed that Pokémon Home will finally link Let's Go and Scarlet/Violet together. This, together with the DLC, will now introduce over 230 Pokémon to the games that weren’t previously available in them to catch or battle with!


Are you excited? I certainly am and will have this on my shopping cart ready to check out!


Have you gotten your copy of Pokemon Scarlet or Violet yet? If not, do check out the link below to get your copy to start your adventure! 

Monday, October 10, 2022

Pre-ordering Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope on Nintendo Switch

October 10, 2022 0 Comments

Image from Ubisoft

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With just about 10 days to it's release,  Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope will make it's way on the Nintendo Switch on 20 October 2022!

In the strategy adventure Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, Mario and his friends team up with the Rabbids once again to restore order to the galaxy! Explore planets filled with quirky residents, and even quirkier secrets, while you stop a mysterious evil from plunging the universe into chaos.


I went into it not really knowing what to expect but Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle is a hidden gem with full of surprises. It’s a turn-based tactics gameplay where you figure out the tactical puzzles of chaining together as many stringed attacks in the least amount of moves possible. It’s oddly satisfying seeing the enemies getting beaten up Mario and Rabbid style. 


[Mario Rabbids: Kingdom Battle Gold Edition + Donkey Kong Adventure DLC Review]


So now with it's sequel out, I can't wait to get my hands on another fantastic helping of strategy-focused goodness, Mario + Rabbid style of course. Besides the Standard Edition, there are are some special Gold and Cosmic Editions available!


I found the Cosmic Edition on Qoo10 for SGD$59.90, and the Gold Edition was SGS$110.90. What a steal!


It's sad that we don't have the steel case, but if you order from the Nintendo Store UK it comes with with a free SteelBook case.


The Gold Edition includes the base game, a Season Pass (which contains upcoming DLC packs, including additional story content featuring a new character, quests, and battles), and the Galactic Prestige Collection (three exclusive weapon skins, unlockable right away). 


The Cosmic Edition just does not have the Season Pass for the DLCs, which is pretty reasonable for that price. It comes with  the base game, and the Galactic Prestige Collection mentioned above.  I've been buying a tad too much games, so this was the only one which was more 'friendly' on my wallet, so this is the version which I got. I could always get the DLCs at a later stage if I am interested in it.


Now all I have to do is wait for the game, and find time time to play! 


Have you pre-ordered your copy of the game or will you wait before getting it? Share it with us below in the comments below!


~Comments, shares and follows are most definitely appreciated! 💬💞

Friday, September 30, 2022

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Introduces Wiglett, the Long Eel Cousin of Diglett

September 30, 2022 0 Comments
The Paldean region of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet has added another unique creature to its ranks...
... Meet the Wiglett

Digletts are Ground Type Pokémon basically whack-a-moles with cute noses, and they were made even more memorable by their cries of “Diglett Dig” in the cartoon. It's cousin the Wiglett,  resembles a garden eel, a subset of the eel species that live underground and poke their heads out from under water. It debuted during a livestream in Japan, which verified that while it bears a striking resemblance to Diglett, it is different enough to be classified as a unique species and not a Paldean variant.


Wiglett is a long worm-like creature that rises from the ground. But unlike the Diglett it is not a Ground Type but Water Type.  It also has a pair of eyes and a nose similar to Diglett, one of the original 151 Pokémon that has already been shown in trailers for the new game.

The Wiglett becomes the 17th new Pokémon revealed for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, including the Paldean variant of Pokémon Wooper from the second generation. New species introduced for the new game include LeChonk, the legendary Koraidon and Miraidon, and the newcomers Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly.



Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is the ninth main installment in the Pokémon franchise, which will introduce players to the new region of Paldea when it launches on 18 November 2022 exclusively on Nintendo Switch.


 Pre-order @ Amazon - SGD62


 Pre-order @ Qoo10 - SGD$60



Have you pre-ordered your own copy of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet  and  are looing forward to it? 
Let us know in the comments below! ↓↓

~Comments, shares and follows are most definitely appreciated! 💬💞

Nintendo Switch Sports News (Last Week of September)

September 30, 2022 0 Comments
 Original Article from Nintendo.com

Check out the offering for the last week of September 2022!

Earn in-game points by playing global online matches*, then redeem them for in-game items like outfits, rackets, hats, and more!

Collect them all to change up your look and show off your sporty style. Items are only available for a limited time, so don’t miss out. You can check the top-right corner of the item list to see how many days you have left to get the item.

Earn in-game points by playing global online matches*, then redeem them for in-game items like outfits, rackets, hats, and more!

Here's what's coming to the item section this week. This collection will be available from 10:00 p.m. PT on September 28, 2022, through 10:00 p.m. PT on October 19, 2022. Have fun out there!

(Items may vary**.)

Completion bonus: Football & Cheerleader Set

Clothing/Accessory
  • Football Helmet
  • Wool Pom-Poms
  • Cheerleader Paint

Hairstyle

  • Cornrows

Eye Color
  • Light Green

Chambara Gear
  • Luxury Sword

Soccer Gear

  • Jackpot Shower

Stamps

  • What's Up Beetle
  • Cozy Beetle
  • Teary-Eyed Beetle
  • Bedtime Beetle

Titles
  • Curry
  • Sushi
  • Answer
  • Quiz

Certain items may vary from player to player.

New to the game? Here's how to earn these in-game items!

As you play online* in random matchmaking, you’ll earn points. You can then redeem those points for a rotating selection of in-game outfits, sports accessories, gear, and other customization options for your Sportsmate. The selection of items will rotate each week, so check back in your game or right here and see what’s in stock!

You can access online play for the Nintendo Switch™ Sports game with any Nintendo Switch Online membership. To see the different options or purchase a membership, visit the official site.


Try out Trial Mode

Don’t have a Nintendo Switch Online membership? Try selecting “Play Globally” to start Trial Mode! You’ll be able to have fierce battles with CPU opponents and obtain up to two items per week. There is no limit to how much you can play this mode, but please note that a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to obtain all items.

Also, a 16-player bowling battle called Survival Bowling is only available when playing online in random matchmaking, but you’ll still be able to try it out in Trial Mode (even if you don’t have a Nintendo Switch Online membership). Enjoy!

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Nintendo Switch Sports Chambara Review and Guide

September 20, 2022 0 Comments
Source: Nintendo

Sometime back I reviewed Nintendo Switch Sports Volleyball and Badminton, and this time I am back with Chambara. I thought Volleyball and Badminton gave a workout for the arms, but Chambara  actually overtakes Volleyball  and Badminton: the speed and arm movements for Chambara are definitely more intense (particularly if you opt for the Twin Swords 😅)!


[Nintendo Switch Sports Volleyball and Badminton First Thoughts Review]



So what is Chambara?

Source: Nintendo

It's basically sword fighting, and is one of six sports in Nintendo Switch Sports. It requires a single Joy-Con, but can be played with two, and allows up to two people to play at a time.



What are the rules?

To win, within the time limit (45 seconds) you have to knock your opponent off the platform and into the water using the arm movements Attack and Guard. If no one is knocked off within the time limit, it becomes a draw. If no winner is decided after three rounds, there's a Final Round in which the arena shrinks.



What are the basic moves?

Attack: Slash the Joy-Con as if it were a sword. The direction of your attacks greatly matters. If your opponent is guarding vertically, you should attack vertically, and so on, or they will block you.

Source: Nintendo


Guard: Hold the ZR(or ZL) button to Guard. Aim perpendicularly to the incoming attacks to stun your opponent.

Source: Nintendo


What types of weapons?

Source: Nintendo

There are 3 types of swords to choose from:

  1. Sword: has an edge with the simplest mechanics. It can knock an opponent off the platform in just 4 attacks.
  2. Charge Sword: f you're adept at blocking at the perfect time, the Charge Sword could be a better fit for you.
  3. Twin Swords: it has the ability to easily confuse the opponent, since you can switch stances and guards very quickly. It can knock an opponent off the platform in 6 attacks.



Some Tips:

  1. An incorrect Guard can be more painful than not guarding at all.
  2. A successful Guard will not push an opponent off the platform, you need to land an attack to win.
  3. Even with Twin Swords, you cannot simultaneously Guard and Attack. Try to go on the offensive first to gain an advantage with the first attack, and then just overwhelm the opponent with a flurry of blows from every direction (hence the arms aching the next day).
  4. When you are being attacked, you are unable to strike back until you correctly Guard. This in turn will effectively stun your opponent. While they are stunned, this is your only opening, so make sure to take it!


Have you gotten your own copy of Nintendo Switch Sports and love / dislike it? 
Let us know in the comments below! ↓↓

~Comments, shares and follows are most definitely appreciated! 💬💞

p.s. You can get the game here for under S$60!

Friday, August 26, 2022

Nintendo Switch Game: A Short Hike Physical Release (Collectors Edition)

August 26, 2022 0 Comments

If you've loved the rustic and calming gameplay of  A Short Hike and wished it was on a physical game cartridge for your Nintendo Switch, your wish has been granted thanks to Super Rare Games!



Follow the marked trails or explore the backcountry as you make your way to the summit. Along the way, meet other hikers, discover hidden treasures, and take in the world around you.

• Explore the island any way you like. Choose your own path to follow and see where it leads you. You never know what you might stumble into!

• Hike at your own pace – there’s no need to rush to the summit! Take your time fishing along the river banks or swimming by the lakeshore.

• Collect hidden treasures to reach new heights. Try taking a dive off the mountain peaks to soar above the forests.

• Chat with the other hikers you meet along your route. You might be able to help each other out!

• Listen to a lush original soundtrack by Mark Sparling that progresses dynamically as you explore the wilderness.


The collector's edition contains a a 46-page retro style guidebook of Hawk Peak, 4 sticker sheets of the Flora and Fauna found on Hawk Peak, a poster-size retro style fold-out map of Hawk Peak (all held together by a Short Hike Belly Band), a Claire pin badge, 3 postcards, and the beautiful OST composed by Mark Sparling. 


How cool is that?! 


If you are a collector and love this game, you should definitely get it! 

 Buy Now














Have you gotten the game or collector's edition? Share it with us below in the comments below!

~Comments, shares and follows are most definitely appreciated! 💬💞