25th April
Hello and welcome back to our regular feature where we write a little about the games we've been playing. This week, Mat remembers when games were just games and not world-shaking conquerers; Marie is impatient for her vampires to get it on; Bertie discovers depth in ridiculousness; and Dom politely calls for help.
Pragmata, PS5
2024's Pragmata offers a nostalgic throwback to simpler gaming experiences. Described as slightly better than alright, it embodies a sense of functional fun without the pressure of defining a genre. The game features a hacking mechanic that is just complicated enough to keep players engaged without becoming overly challenging. It requires coordination, making players feel like they're solving a chess puzzle while moving around in-game.
With an array of costumes, coins, and challenge rooms, there’s a sense that Pragmata could have evolved into something more complex, possibly introducing 10-man Pragmata raids. Yet, its current form is refreshing, allowing players to enjoy a straightforward experience. You could opt to play it or ignore it; either way, it provides a unique charm that feels absent in many modern titles.
Lego Batman: The Videogame and Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream
Switching gears, Lego Batman continues to surprise players, and the hunt for collectibles has become an obsession. While the game shows its age in terms of controls, it still manages to pull players back in for more fun. On the other hand, Tomodachi Life serves as a cozy escape, especially during chilly evenings. Players find themselves entangled in the romantic drama of 100-plus year-old vampires who are too shy to confess their feelings, alongside other quirky interactions that make the game delightfully weird.
Don't Judge But...
Dom shares his experience with Vampire Survivors and Slay the Spire 2. Vampire Survivors has evolved since its initial release, with new characters and themed additions keeping gameplay fresh. Players are experiencing a never-ending banquet of fun, with increasingly ridiculous scenarios that only add to the enjoyment. Meanwhile, Slay the Spire 2 is challenging Dom with the Regent's recent buff, pushing him closer to his goal of Ascension 10.