https://www.cbr.com Covering comics, movies, TV like no other in the world. CBR.com is all you need! Fri, 22 Sep 2023 19:51:18 GMT en-US hourly 60 Mortal Kombat 1 recently released, touting a story mode that refreshes every aspect of the franchise’s universe. Fire God Liu Kang has remade the realms, with his new era giving a redefined purpose to characters like Sub-Zero, Scorpion, Reptile, Kitana and Mileena. This new reality is sprawling, detailed, and frankly too big to fit into the framework the games provide, making it perfect for comics. In fact, Mortal Kombat and its mythologies have always been perfect for the cast-driven storytelling frequently seen in the genre.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 19:51:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mortal-kombat-comics-fate/ Pokémon has been around for a long time now, and nine generations of games and the anime have finally pushed this storied franchise over 1000 total species of Pokémon. Every generation has introduced its own collection of Pokémon, and some have even tried new things with evolution mechanics, new battle gimmicks and regional variants.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 18:50:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-paradox-largest-missed-opportunities/ Final Fantasy VII remains one of the benchmarks of modern gaming. Even nearly thirty years after its debut on the original PlayStation, the adventures of Cloud and his allies in AVALANCHE linger in the cultural consciousness. This made their return in 2020's Final Fantasy VII Remake all the more impactful, as the game's new approach to gameplay and tweaks to the original story brought new energy to the classic adventure.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 17:20:24 GMT https://www.cbr.com/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-hands-on/ As Mortal Kombat 1 promised, many major characters had new destinies. In Liu Kang's new world, Raiden was now Earthrealm's champion and someone the Fire God hoped would help stave off incursions from enemies. Thankfully, Raiden had help from his fellow Shaolin monks, with Kung Lao present as a brother-in-arms.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:20:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-kung-lao-ending-explained/ Marvel Entertainment has crafted a compelling and complex shared universe in the comic book space. Naturally, this was transferred to the big screen with the Marvel Cinematic Universe taking the box office by storm. However, Marvel hasn't quite cracked the video game landscape in the same way. There is yet to be a truly well-formed and consistent shared universe where all past and future gaming releases are set in. There's no telling whether the games would increase in their quality or sales via this move, but it would certainly be a fun way to connect to the source material.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:31:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-insomniac-games-forget-shared-gaming-universe/ By the time the Mortal Kombat 1 ending unfolds, it's safe to say the Lin Kuei isn't the same. The ice ninja clan initially began as Liu Kang's allies, helping protect Earthrealm for centuries. Unfortunately, the new timeline finds Bi-Han wanting more power and glory, as he selfishly breaks off and partners his crew with the Titan Shang Tsung.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 14:20:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-smoke-ending-explained/ Dragon Quest has enjoyed popularity for almost forty years, and it shows no sign of slowing down. Each of its mainline titles has been essential to furthering JRPGS as a genre, and these days they carve their path by maintaining traditional turn-based combat. There is still variation in the franchise, and it's time for Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies to be brought to modern consoles.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 18:50:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/dragon-quest-9-needs-remake/ One of the most anticipated games of next year for many horror fans is the Silent Hill 2 Remake. As yet, the release date is little more than the vague "early 2024" given at its announcement. Fans are eager for a new title in the long-running series that can capture what made the first four Silent Hill titles so endearing. Konami has struggled to reproduce the success of the early days of the survival horror series. Each title after Team Silent's dissolution failed to meet the expectations of both Konami and the fans.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 17:20:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/best-horror-game-to-play-while-waiting-for-sh2-remake/ One of the most shocking aspects of Mortal Kombat 1 was how the franchise flipped the script on the Lin Kuei. The legendary ice ninja clan was initially turned into something more heroic, with Liu Kang using them as guardians of Earthrealm. Interestingly, a civil war broke out, with Bi-Han wanting to selfishly lead his clan down a macabre path, playing on the "It's In Our Blood!" tagline.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:21:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-lin-kuei-ending-explained/ For years, players, critics, and even developers have floated the idea that “single-player games are dead.” This sentiment is both true and untrue. While there has been an observable trend of AAA studios moving away from ten to fifteen-hour single-player story campaigns and toward games as a service at the close of the 2010s, it still felt like there were a fair number of story-centric games even a few years ago. Fast-forward to 2023 and the market is flooded with battle passes and free-to-play models, especially in the AAA market.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:30:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/single-player-narrative-games-future/ God of War is one of Sony and PlayStation's biggest video game franchises to date. While the original God of War series was a much-loved reinvention of Greek mythology, the soft reboots from Santa Monica Studio have taken the quality of the storytelling to a new level. The titular God of War, Kratos, has been on a tumultuous journey since audiences first met him. He's a compelling character who could easily slot into other fantastical fictional universes.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:21:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/god-of-war-kratos-enters-marvel-dc-comics/ Although Berserk is widely considered to be one of the greatest manga series of all time, its various adaptations have struggled to translate the series' emotional story and stunning art into other mediums. Even so, it's odd that Berserk has received so few video game adaptations, especially considering how the manga's bloody action, imaginatively nightmarish monsters, and iconic weaponry have inspired gaming classics like Dark Souls, Dragon's Dogma, and Final Fantasy VII. While the few game adaptations Berserk has received are mostly lackluster, there is one exception that deserves a modern remake.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:21:23 GMT https://www.cbr.com/berserk-best-game-needs-remake/ Macross has mostly been defined by numerous iconic anime, though the equally classic VF-1 Valkyrie units have also had their fair share of cool toys over the years. Being second only to the Mobile Suit Gundam franchise in popularity, it's also had several video games. Unfortunately, none of these have been particularly monumental, with many of them lacking a release outside Japan.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:20:22 GMT https://www.cbr.com/macross-robotech-history-japan-exclusive-games/ The 1990s were a whirlwind decade for Sega; the company experienced its greatest highs with the Genesis/Mega Drive and some serious lows with the 32X and the ill-fated Saturn. By the summer of 1998, the PlayStation was the king of video games, Nintendo was creating childhood memories with the Nintendo 64 and Sega was without a home console after the early discontinuation of the Sega Saturn. Sega needed to answer the competition and deliver something big in order to stay alive in the console market. The answer came in the form of the next-generation Dreamcast.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:30:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/sega-dreamcast-launch-1999-retrospective-history/ One of the most impressive facets of Mortal Kombat 1 is how it reshaped the destinies and overall motivation of many villains. Baraka wanted a home for him and those inflicted with the Tarkatan plague, while Reptile was a former slave who just wanted to be accepted. Even General Shao is somewhat sympathetic, wanting to overthrow Queen Sindel to genuinely protect Outworld.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 14:20:22 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-reiko-ending-info/ Romance is a more popular game mechanic than ever, whether it involves finding a sweet girl to settle down with in Stardew Valley or picking the better waifu for Cloud Strife in Final Fantasy VII between Aerith and Tifa (the answer is Tifa, by the way). For all the romantic debauchery available to player characters, though, it can feel weird when they don't get an alternate love interest, especially in games with big parties or multiple bachelor/ettes of all genders. Contemporary games feel like a virtual cornucopia of hot young singles, but they all share the same type: just bland enough to be projectable for any player and therefore inoffensive to any given romantic partner.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:30:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/fire-emblem-has-great-shipping-systems/ As Mortal Kombat 1's story mode comes to an end, it seems the Fire God in Liu Kang has managed to preserve his timeline. He's harnessed the Sands of Time, becoming Keeper of the Hourglass once more. It's part and parcel of him keeping the various realities from spilling over in what's essentially the franchise's take on the Multiverse.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 21:15:45 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mortal-kombat-1-havik-ending/ Actual-play shows and streams where the cast plays a tabletop roleplaying game have become increasingly popular over the last several years. There is a vast abundance of shows featuring different players, Game Masters, games, and themes, each with unique stories and lore. Getting into actual-plays as a new viewer can be difficult, and the first challenge is always deciding where to begin. Obstacles like time commitment, knowledge of existing lore, and differing play-style preferences can be daunting to overcome.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 18:50:37 GMT https://www.cbr.com/critical-role-exu-calamity-starting-point/ Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet sit in the awkward seat of being good for what they are, but bad for what they could be. With a Metacritic critic score of 72 for Scarlet and 71 for Violet, most would agree that the open-world take on the long-running series is fun enough. However, the heavy technical issues, poor presentation, and many glitches are shocking for mainline entries in the world's highest-grossing media franchise.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 17:20:36 GMT https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-scarlet-violets-rivals-explained/ As Mortal Kombat 1 kicks off, fans are basking in a new era. Liu Kang, as the Fire God, has reshaped reality, but he's stunned to learn all isn't as it seems. There's a Titan version of Shang Tsung running loose as well, making incursions and looking to shatter this paradise. The iconic villain doesn't like anyone but him messing with space and time, so he wants to enslave all timelines, beginning with Liu Kang's.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 16:20:29 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mortal-kombat-1-raiden-ending-explained/ When the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes began, audiences started questioning whether their favorite entertainment media would be impacted. The answers are complex and vary on a case-by-case basis due to the nuances of established contracts and potential interim agreements. Tabletop-roleplaying game fans were especially unsure if the strikes would significantly impact actual-play shows like Critical Role and Dimension 20, since their cast rosters and crews heavily feature members of both unions. At the moment, both shows are still in production and are visibly and vocally supportive of the strikes. While this support may seem contradictory with continued production to some fans, it comes down to a few distinctions between the regulations for different types of media and the companies that produce them.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:30:26 GMT https://www.cbr.com/writer-actor-strikes-critical-role-dimension-20/ The Final Fantasy franchise has been the premiere Japanese role-playing video game series since the 1980s. Other properties have risen in popularity since then, but for the most part, Square Enix's premier series has set the pace for the entire genre. Unfortunately, this has meant that some otherwise acclaimed role-playing games have largely fallen by the wayside in terms of popularity, if they ever achieved much to begin with.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 14:20:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/final-fantasy-overshadow-suikoden-jrpg-success/ Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne is notorious among JRPG fans for being one of the hardest games in the genre, and it's easy to see why. The game's punishing combat and lack of hand-holding make it a daunting challenge for even the most experienced JRPG fans. It's an unforgiving experience with a level of difficulty that's only matched by other Shin Megami Tensei games. However, while the game may seem overwhelming or downright unfair to first-time players, Nocturne's intense difficulty makes it one of the best JRPGs of all time.

]]> Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:21:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/smt-3-nocturne-perfect-brutal-difficulty-design/ Second Dinner is keeping up its reputation for being proactive and on the ball as it continues making appropriate changes to Marvel Snap cards, ensuring that the meta stays as fresh as possible without doing too much at once. They do this expertly, whether through the new cards they add with each new season or through OTA balance updates and patches that change cards accordingly to make sure that they are fair.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 23:31:15 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-snap-how-to-fix-quake-card/ The story of Pokémon Scarlet & Violet's DLC The Teal Mask has taken players by surprise, delving into folklore and the complexities surrounding whether it should be believed or not. In The Teal Mask, players are introduced to the Kitakami region via a school trip away from Paldea and are met with a whole new place with a brand-new Pokédex to fill out.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 22:46:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-teal-mask-kitakami-folktale-explained/ Mech-action games have always existed in a niche genre of gaming. The genre has some incredibly passionate fans, but it is a genre that has been largely neglected by developers for the last 10 years. Fortunately, the last few years have seen a couple of mech-action reemerge and spark interest in the long-dormant genre again. One of the biggest games that piqued gamers' interest in the genre has undoubtedly been FromSoftware's Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon. While the studio might be much more known for the Dark Souls games and Elden Ring, Armored Core was once FromSoftware's primary series.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 19:00:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/armored-core-vi-alternative-daemon-x-machina/ Hoyoverse's crown as the developer of the world's biggest open-world gacha game has largely been secured with Genshin Impact's three-year reign. However, Project Mugen, a similar free-to-play open-world, team-based combat title by Netease could be threatening to tip its crown soon. Project Mugen's first promotional video went viral on social media because of several similarities to older games such as Grand Theft Auto V, the Spider-Man PlayStation series, and Genshin Impact. Nevertheless, the gameplay footage revealed seems unique enough to give the upcoming game an identity of its own.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 17:50:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/genshin-impact-project-mugen-lessons/ After nearly two decades of waiting, Princess Peach is finally getting another game of her own. The third game to feature Princess Peach as the only playable character, Princess Peach: Showtime! sends Peach and the Toads on a journey to the Sparkle Theater, only to find new villains, Grape and the Sour Bunch, have taken over. As Peach transforms into several different characters with the help of the theater's guardian Stella, she takes the stage to save the play from her ridiculous new foes.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 16:00:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mario-every-princess-peach-showtime-transformation/ Stardew Valley is, in many ways, the poster child of indie darlings. Developed by ConcernedApe and released in 2016, the game is still popular across several platforms — and for good reason. While it was inspired by the Harvest Moon franchise, it stands firmly on its own merits and is a wholly unique experience. At its core, Stardew Valley's developer filled the game with so much love, and new and old players alike will always find plenty to do in its rich world.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 14:10:14 GMT https://www.cbr.com/stardew-valley-most-replayable-farming-sim-game/ As Mortal Kombat 1's story mode unfolds, it's perfectly clear this isn't the MK of old. Apart from Liu Kang tinkering with the main timeline, somewhat improving what Raiden attempted in the past, the franchise drops a massive bombshell regarding the Multiverse. The victory over Kronika in MK11 actually spawned infinite realities where other Titans and Time Gods emerged apart from Liu Kang.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 23:35:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/how-mk1-sets-up-sequel/ Leaker Kingdom Laboratories claims that Riot Games is working on a Valorant movie for release in 2025 and even posted a link on X to a YouTube livestream scheduled for a trailer launch on Oct. 12, 2024. Other reliable Valorant leakers have reshared the claims and briefly acknowledged its current production with Chinese technology conglomerate Tencent.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 23:30:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/valorant-rumor-possible-movie/ Prior to the release of Tears of the Kingdom, many skeptics would revel in referring to Breath of the Wild's upcoming sequel as "$70 DLC." The reason for that was twofold: first, TOTK was not only based on the exact same version of Hyrule as BOTW with the same map, but it also carried over many of the same character models, monsters, and story beats as its predecessor. The second—but no less important—reason TOTK was being referred to as "BOTW DLC" was that the producer of the game, Eiji Aonuma, revealed in an early interview with Kotaku that TOTK first started as a series of ideas for BOTW DLC until developers realized they had more than enough new content to just make this into its own separate game.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 21:15:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/why-totk-doesnt-need-dlc/ Throughout the years, the racing genre has undergone leaps and strides in both its presentation and gameplay. With Forza and Gran Turismo's ever-expanding car customization, Need for Speed and The Crew's arcade-y open worlds, and the increasingly polished mechanics of Codemasters' F1 and Dirt series, racing games continue to evolve with new ideas and innovations. Despite this, modern racing games have yet to replicate the unrivaled thrill and explosive action of Criterion Game's 2004 racing masterpiece, Burnout 3: Takedown.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 19:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/burnout-3-can-teach-modern-racing-games/ It's safe to say fans were eagerly awaiting Mortal Kombat 1 and how this new world would be shaped after the Midway era and early NetherRealm timelines. Well, make no mistake it's drastically different as Ed Boon and the creative team take a comic book movie approach. It has that superhero energy of stories of Flashpoint and such, with MK entering the multiverse.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 17:50:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mortal-kombat-1-ending-explained/ Pokémon Scarlet & Violet's first part of the DLC The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero has arrived, and The Teal Mask has duly delivered on all fronts. Players have been able to explore a new region in Kitakami and meet some new characters and Pokémon as they make their way through a brand-new Pokédex, which happens to blend returning familiar faces with new additions.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 16:00:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-ogerpon-faces-explained/ Insomniac's Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is just around the corner, and fans of the series are eager to swing through the streets of New York, now with both of their favorite web-slinging heroes in one game. The first two titles have proven to be two of the greatest superhero games ever made, and the upcoming sequel looks poised to continue that trend.

]]> Sat, 16 Sep 2023 14:10:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvels-spider-man-2-new-features/ Sony's Spider-Man 3 isn't considered the worst of the Spider-Man films, but it is certainly near the bottom of the list due to a host of issues. While it introduced the iconic and highly-anticipated villain Venom to the series, it still failed on multiple fronts, including the way it handled the iconic villain. Now, Insomniac's Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is just around the corner, and, for better or worse, it bears a striking resemblance to Sony's Spider-Man 3.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 23:31:22 GMT https://www.cbr.com/spider-man-3-video-game-insomniac-marvel/ The Last Of Us Part 2 was one of gaming's most highly anticipated sequels of all time, releasing six years after Naughty Dog's award-winning post-apocalyptic adventure graced PlayStation systems for the first time. After the initial excitement, however, the fan base was divided. While some fans praised the long-awaited sequel's in-depth story and different gameplay elements, other fans felt betrayed by its controversial plot advancements, the pacing, and how different character's story arcs played out.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 21:16:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/tlou-3-ellie-storyline-ending/ It's about to be on like Donkey Kong for Nintendo Switch owners, with Mario and his original rival going at it again. A remake of Mario vs. Donkey is on the way, bringing an upgraded version of the Game Boy Advance adventure to modern hardware. Hopefully, however, it isn't just a graphical upgrade, making room for one notable missing element of the original release.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 19:00:22 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mario-vs-donkey-kong-remake-needs-level-editor-custom-levels/ Fans of the Baldur's Gate franchise had to wait 23 years to get a sequel to Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of Amn, but it was definitely worth the wait. When the Dungeons & Dragons-based RPG was finally released earlier this year, it became not only one of the best-reviewed games of 2023 but also one of the best of all time.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 17:50:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/baldurs-gate-3-ps5-vs-pc-editions/ Finding the Master Sword has always been one of the more exciting parts of the Zelda franchise, with every entry hearkening back to older games while maintaining a unique style. Tears of the Kingdom pushes this concept even further, especially given how the Master Sword was little more than an Easter egg in Breath of the Wild. Even with all the changes Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom have brought to the Zelda franchise, the Master Sword quest in Tears of the Kingdom proves the games haven’t forgotten their roots.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:01:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-master-sword-quest-nostalgia/ Bethesda's new IP Starfield has already proven to be a step in the right direction for the developer, albeit a somewhat divisive one. While some fans and critics thought the sci-fi RPG was less than stellar, most of its current players continue to respond positively to the game, discovering more interesting secrets with every completed playthrough.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 14:10:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/how-elder-scrolls-6-will-look-post-starfield/ Both War of the Spark and March of the Machine were the culmination years years-long Magic the Gathering story arcs with an explosive set featuring multiple worlds and a plethora of new, exciting cards. Both sets were also plagued with some controversy in terms of their storytelling and the cards released in the set.

]]> Thu, 14 Sep 2023 23:30:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mtg-war-of-the-spark-march-of-machines-retrospective/ The Elder Scrolls franchise contains a world full of fantastical creatures and incredible magic. Among these creatures are the world's inhabitants, the most common of which range from men to mer. The mer, or the elves, are a diverse species of humanoids that can be found in every game. Some even serve as playable races. Though, what about the elves that aren't playable? What about the Dwemer?

]]> Thu, 14 Sep 2023 19:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/skyrim-dwemer-elder-scrolls-lore-fan-theories/ Throne of Eldraine was one of the most notoriously powerful, even broken, sets of all time in Magic: The Gathering. It introduced a plethora of cards that were either too strong, too efficient or just too good when compared to all the other cards of the time. Eldraine blew nearly anything else that was released in a previous Standard legal set out of the water and began a new era of Magic defined by its increased power level.

]]> Thu, 14 Sep 2023 17:51:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/magic-the-gathering-wilds-vs-throne-of-eldraine/ The looter-shooter genre has steadily increased in popularity since the release of Gearbox Software's Borderlands 2 in 2012, with popular games like Warframe and the Destiny franchise also contributing to the genre's success, so it's no surprise when a new title is added to its ever-expanding library of games. The First Descendant will soon join the fray as a free-to-play third-person cooperative action-RPG looter-shooter by Nexon for PS4/PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows.

]]> Thu, 14 Sep 2023 16:57:37 GMT https://www.cbr.com/the-first-descent-hands-on-demo-preview/ Video game romances have become ubiquitous to the point where they are an expected aspect of many different genres. The days of Mario receiving cake from Princess Peach are long gone and players want a more individual romantic experience in their games. Romance has especially become a staple of role playing games as a way for gamers to immerse themselves more fully into the world that their characters inhabit. The romance options are usually the characters that players talk about the most, come up with headcanons for, and build entire playthroughs around.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:16:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/rpg-romance-elf-options-baldurs-gate-3-dnd/ Food has never been the strongest mechanic in Magic the Gathering at any given time, but Throne of Eldraine proved that Food can punch far above its weight. When Food was announced as a new mechanic and the cards that created Food were revealed, there were those who underestimated it at first glance. Food doesn't inherently do much to change one's board and it doesn't grant much in the way of card advantage without support. However, Food proved to be more powerful and useful than people initially gave it credit for. It isn't quite as broken as something like Delve or Cascade, but it has earned its place as a useful mechanic that can flex a surprising amount of power.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:50:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mtg-eldraine-food-tokens/ Fans of fantasy role-playing games have been eating quite well for the last few weeks, especially since Baldur's Gate III officially made its debut on the PlayStation 5, showing off its incredible scope while also being an excellent port. It can be hard to remember that fantasy games were relatively niche for a while, often relegated to older role-playing games as sci-fi and first-person shooters took over the market in the earlier days of console gaming. Much of the love for the genre was primarily focused on the PC. As a result, games like Fable only made a relatively small splash when up against juggernauts like Halo and Call of Duty.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:00:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/bioware-dragon-age-dreadwolf-fandom-concerns/ Zelda and Link's relationship has been rockier than the Eldin Region of Hyrule. For a pair that is literally bound by fate, the couple have sure had a lot of ups and downs throughout the Legend of Zelda franchise.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 15:20:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/legend-of-zelda-link-love-romance/ War weighs tremendously heavy over Candela Obscura's newest batch of investigators, The Circle of Needle and Thread, whose bond was forged on the front lines of combat. The TTRPG horror anthology from Critical Role, which serves to debut their Illuminated Worlds system, dives head-first into these heavy topics in its latest chapter alongside the game's designer and cinematic guiding hand, Spenser Starke.

]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 22:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/critical-role-tackles-ptsd-in-candela-obscura/ Magic: The Gathering's Eldraine setting is a world inspired by fairy tales and Arthurian mythology in equal measure. The plane's first set Throne of Eldraine focuses on five great human courts and their devoted knights, while the more recent Wilds of Eldraine focuses on the untamed world in the aftermath of March of the Machine.

]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 19:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/magic-the-gathering-wilds-of-eldraine-courts-facts/ Final Fantasy is known for being loaded with traditions. Nearly every mainline game has a Chocobo, a moogle, and a person named Cid. The franchise strives to reinvent itself with every major entry all while never forgetting its past. Staples like cactuars and Phoenix Downs serve as a constant reminder to fans that they are playing a Final Fantasy game no matter how much the franchise may deviate from other traditions like turn-based combat.

]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 17:50:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/final-fantasy-xvi-dlc-fan-outrage-rpg-video-games/ Ever since it debuted in the 1990s, the Pokémon franchise has dominated every industry that it's been a part of. This is especially the case for the video game and anime mediums, with Nintendo and GameFreak's Pocket Monsters catching all kinds of fans throughout the decades. This has inspired several would-be heirs to the throne, with one property in particular seeing a rather disheartening fall from grace.

]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 16:00:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/yo-kai-watch-pokemon-fate-video-game/ Although Atlus' Persona series has held a fairly large fan base throughout the years, it skyrocketed into mainstream popularity with the release of Persona 5. The game's memorable soundtrack, excellent writing and uniquely stylish visuals captivated longtime JRPG players while also appealing to those who aren't fans of the genre. Persona 5 quickly became a massive critical and commercial success, so it's no surprise that Atlus has released multiple spinoffs of the hit title. However, after almost seven years of constant promotion and releases, it might be time for Atlus to finally move on from the hit RPG..

]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 14:11:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/persona-video-game-rpg-reliance-atlus/ Difficult games are difficult for a large variety of reasons. Some test the player's motor skills and reaction time like in Devil May Cry or Ninja Gaiden, while others test planning and problem-solving like Darkest Dungeon or X-COM. Survival horror games tend to ride the line of difficulty and make it more about hiding information from the player, such as enemy placement or the location of resources, and about swift, punishing death as a result of failure.

]]> Mon, 11 Sep 2023 21:16:15 GMT https://www.cbr.com/pathologic-2-scary-difficult-video-game/ Marvel Snap's first year has been an exciting time, especially since Second Dinner creatively incorporates beloved Marvel characters into the game. Marvel Snap's card acquisition has come on in leaps and bounds since the beginning. Although there are different prices and levels of accessibility through Pools and Series, there are more ways than ever for players to get new cards.

]]> Mon, 11 Sep 2023 19:01:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-snap-card-collection-tips/ Across a 15-20 hour first playthrough, players are hit with a barrage of names in Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubin, including Raven, Freelancer, Tourist, “dog,” G13, and “mutt” – none of which ever reveal the protagonist’s true identity. All the while, the character never once utters a word of retort, only seeking recompense and vindication in elaborately conceived battles spread across missions of various import and length. But lest players assume the game operates in tried-and-true and, frankly, tired sci-fi tropes, it's the approach to telling its moth-eaten story – in an unorthodox way – that deserves special recognition in an art form that often talks down to players.

]]> Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:35:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/armored-core-vi-fires-of-rubicon-features-clever-storytelling/ Dead By Daylight has had an incredibly impressive tenure thus far, maintaining a constant momentum with a bevy of updates and DLC releases. While at times the DLCs have been lackluster and underwhelming, the release of Chapter 29: Alien sets a different tone.

]]> Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:10:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/dbd-perfect-alien-dlc-ellen-ripley-xenomorph/ It is no secret that Final Fantasy XVI took the series in a new direction. Every entry in the Final Fantasy series attempts to add something new and interesting. This often leads to new stories, mechanics, and design ideas that are beloved and help reinvent the series. Sometimes, those mechanics and ideas don't work as well in the game, but it is that constant innovation that keeps the series fresh and enjoyable. Final Fantasy XVI demonstrates this perfectly since it introduced several new things to the series and changed some of the staple mechanics of the series. Needless to say, this wasn't loved by all the fans.

]]> Sun, 10 Sep 2023 21:15:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/ffxvi-more-like-kingdom-hearts-than-got-good-thing/ FromSoftware is primarily known for its penchant for making difficult video games. Even with its latest release of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, players have collectively shared their woes and war stories. Something else that is shared among FromSoftware fans, though, that rarely makes it into the broader conversations about the company, is a love for the cast of characters the studio laces through their titles. This isn't just because of the spectacular character design and voice work that is given to each one, though those are definitely factors.

]]> Sun, 10 Sep 2023 17:50:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/fromsoftware-npcs-explained/ Whether he's throwing hands with Nintendo's finest, banging on the bongos or blasting out of barrels, Donkey Kong (DK) is the most adventurous ape in video games. Nintendo's swanky simian has foiled King K. Rool's nefarious schemes over and over since 1994's Donkey Kong Country. The franchise's first installment sold over nine million copies and became one of the best-selling titles on the Super Nintendo, spawning four sequels, numerous ports, spin-off games, a toy line and a TV show.

]]> Sun, 10 Sep 2023 16:00:24 GMT https://www.cbr.com/new-dkc-game-needs-to-happen/ As strange as it is, Link is an even more indispensable character to the Legend of Zelda series than Princess Zelda herself. As the player character, Link always takes the central role in the gameplay, while Princess Zelda is relegated to being a side character, or is even absent entirely in some games in the series.

]]> Sat, 09 Sep 2023 21:16:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/totk-should-have-made-princess-zelda-playable-character/ Ever since the release of Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc in 2010, the Danganronpa franchise has captivated players around the world with its memorably eccentric characters, elaborate murder mysteries, and gruesome yet stylish visuals. The first two installments present separate scenarios in which a group of gifted students from the prestigious Hope's Peak Academy are forced into a killing game, wherein they must murder each other without being caught or risk being discovered and brutally punished in a class trial. The grisly premise combined with the series' dark sense of humor helped Danganronpa become a unique cult classic and the face of the entire death game genre. However, the franchise's final installment, Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony, concluded with a shocking twist that may have turned many fans away from the series forever.

]]> Sat, 09 Sep 2023 19:00:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/danganronpa-v3-ending-misunderstood-masterpiece/ The Legend of Zelda series made its debut in 1986 and has since constructed an abyssal trove full of lore and adventure. The Zelda games tell tales of a princess and her hero who oppose the eternal return of evil across the ages. Whenever vengeance appears, Princess Zelda and her chosen hero, Link, are bound to an unexplainable force that predominately resembles reincarnation.

]]> Sat, 09 Sep 2023 17:51:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-reincarnation-facts/ Bethesda promised to deliver a highly customizable experience in Starfield. They made good on that promise not only by granting players an unprecedented level of freedom to explore the cosmos but also by placing a significant emphasis on player choice throughout the game's narrative. The main story mission "High Price to Pay," for example, requires players to choose which companions to defend, while another main mission presents a more challenging ethical dilemma.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 23:30:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/starfield-entangled-mission-trolley-problem/ Despite most gamers preferring single-player titles over multiplayer ones, couch co-ops are still a prominent genre—and the industry front-runners know this. While PCs are renowned for their online and local multiplayer gaming functionalities, consoles have a storied history with collaborative games. As such, major household consoles—i.e., the PlayStation 4/5, the Xbox Series X/S, and the Nintendo Switch—dedicate considerable resources to continue to cater to local and online co-op gamers.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 21:15:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/best-consoles-for-co-op/ The Pokémon franchise tends to focus on its more popular monsters and advertise them more than others. Naturally, many Generation I Pokémon fit into this category, especially Charizard, Pikachu, Eevee, and Mewtwo; there will always be room on the stage for at least one of them. Generation IV also produced multiple lasting icons like Bidoof, Lucario, Rotom, and Arceus. Starter Pokémon and their evolutionary families also make many recurring appearances; the same goes for most Legendary and some Mythical Pokémon. Every once in a while, a relatively obscure Pokémon will be given more attention than expected.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 20:00:22 GMT https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-oddish-all-over-right-now/ Super Mario Bros. Wonder is Nintendo's upcoming installment to the beloved franchise, and gamers are already preparing themselves for what looks to be an incredibly fun experience. It is the first traditional side-scrolling platform game in the series since 2012's New Super Mario Bros. U on the Wii U, so fans can expect something similar and yet massively improved.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:01:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/super-mario-bros-wonder-enemies-power-ups-new/ There is nothing better than a new Marvel Snap season coinciding with the impending release of an MCU movie or related series. Guardians Greatest Hits was a huge success alongside Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, while Spider-Versus was exciting in hyping Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Now, Loki For All Time is here in hyping up Loki season 2, which premieres October 6th.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 17:50:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-snap-loki-for-all-time-season-new-cards-locations/ Bethesda's new space RPG Starfield is proving to be quite the adventure for most of its players, as it offers a journey through the cosmos that is unlike any game before it. While games like No Man's Sky have allowed players to explore the stars in near-limitless fashion, Starfield includes significant role-playing elements, along with an engaging story and memorable characters that other titles can't compete with.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 16:01:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/starfield-main-story-playthrough-best/ Most video games use silent protagonists for the purpose of player immersion. If the player character can't speak, they can't say anything that the player would disagree with. Toby Fox's indie hits Undertale and Deltarune use silent protagonists, but the heroes' lack of lines serve to highlight the difference between the characters and the player themselves. The player characters in Fox's works are shown in-universe to be separate entities from the real-life player, and their silence helps turn that fact into a plot twist – while also making the horrible things they can be forced to do even more disturbing.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 14:10:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/undertale-deltarune-silent-protagonists/ Second Dinner continues to impress with their hands-on approach to keeping Marvel Snap fresh, as they regularly deliver buffs and nerfs to balance the decks and cards. These alterations are meant to take popular cards, synergies and combinations in and out of the limelight to give others a chance, before returning them at a more opportune moment. The studio recently buffed Doctor Doom and while this has only returned him to his former glory, fans have welcomed the change.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 23:30:16 GMT https://www.cbr.com/doctor-doom-buff-marvel-snap-doombots-doomwave-deck/ Second Dinner continue to impress with the direction being taken for Marvel Snap. They always seem to take care when releasing new cards into the Marvel Snap meta by monitoring them and being ready to buff or nerf if appropriate, or they simply line up a counter down the line.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 21:15:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-snap-loki-counter/ Twilight Princess carried the torch of previous Zelda titles to the extreme. It was very much the game that fans always wanted, but that would prove both its greatest strength and its biggest weakness. It largely played it safe in the formula that previous games set up, and that contrasts greatly with how the Zelda series tends to push the limitations of what is possible in game design for their time. That's why Twilight Princess' predecessor, Wind Waker, a game that wasn't afraid to push boundaries, has gone on to be seen as a timeless masterpiece.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 19:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/wind-waker-is-better-than-twighlight-princess/ Since their introduction in the 1960s, action figures have occupied a historic place in pop culture. Today, action figures exist for a massive number of franchises and are certainly not limited to comics or cartoons. Whether within or without the collector's community, action figures are a recognizable staple intrinsically tied with comics, gaming, anime and other facets of similar communities. With the rise of online stores and local game shops, action figures have never been more accessible to all fans.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 17:50:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/action-figure-grading/ Eldraine is a plane inspired by fairy tales, and in the latest set Wilds of Eldraine, Magic the Gathering is putting into play many of the more 'out there' elements of fairy tales. From witches covering the world in a curse to strange creatures like a Goose Hydra, this new Eldraine set pulls the world further from Arthurian Myth and more firmly into the more general realm of European folklore and Grim's fairy tales.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mtg-wilds-of-eldraine-creature-types/ At the center of Starfield's conflict are the Artifacts, mysterious relics that, when pieced together, allow the wielder to open the gateway to the Unity—the center of all space and time, and the place where every universe converges. Those who enter the Unity become one of a group of people known as Starborn, as they are reborn in another universe with greater power than before, including the ability to cross universes as many times as they wish. Needless to say, the Artifacts are a sought after prize, and three individuals seek them for their own reasons in the story of Starfield: the Hunter, the Emissary, and the player.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:11:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/starfield-why-three-protagonists/ OTA Balance Updates have been a vital part of Marvel Snap's success in recent months. Each one proves that Second Dinner cares about keeping the meta fair and relevant, implementing specific nerfs and buffs. However, card changes aren't always limited to OTA Updates, as Marvel Snap patches occasionally pop up as well. These patches address issues across the entire game, but they also cover mechanical issues regarding cards.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 23:30:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-snap-card-changes-september-patch/ The Legend of Zelda has always been a single-player-oriented game. Link's quest to save Princess Zelda and Hyrule from Ganondorf's clutches is something he has just to do alone. However, Tears of the Kingdom turned that trend on its head from the very moment it was announced with Princess Zelda proclaiming to Link "You're not alone."

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 21:15:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/tloz-four-swords-could-help-tlok-with-co-op/ Starfield is a massive game with numerous paths for players to take during the main story. Additionally, there are over 80 skills to unlock, over 1,000 planets to discover and explore, and countless weapons and armor to collect, so players will need to spend plenty of time with Bethesda's sci-fi RPG if they expect to make even a dent in its content. Thankfully, Starfield includes a New Game + mode, so players can potentially make that happen.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 19:01:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/starfield-ng-plus-innovation/ The Lord of the Rings: Heroes of Middle-earth is a new mobile strategy role-playing game by EA and Capital Games, much like Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, where players can collect various characters from The Lord of the Rings universe and experience exciting stories, both told and untold, from Tolkien's novels. A large part of Heroes of Middle-earth's storytelling revolves around the question of "what if?" by presenting players with an opportunity to play through alternative storylines with their favorite LotR characters.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 17:50:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/lotr-heroes-of-middle-earth-haradrim-interview/ Progression and card acquisition are important yet ever-changing components of Marvel Snap, as players strive to improve and unlock as much of the game as they possibly can. Playing games and completing missions is generally the way to go, since earning credits allows players to progress through the Collection Levels. While there are many ways to get a hold of cards now in Marvel Snap, one particular method involving Collector's Tokens has recently become tougher than ever.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 16:00:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/marvel-snap-earn-collectors-tokens/ Humble Games is a small publishing team with a love of video games. This translates into a strong shared passion for indie developers. They want to get fun, good, wholesome games out into the world for players to enjoy, focusing on positive experiences that bring smiles to the faces of every gamer. From cartoon graphics to classic pixel styles, Humble Games puts out a ton of experiences that are inclusive, adventurous, and bold enough to challenge video game norms.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:30:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/gamescon-humble-games-new-indie-games/ The artificer is the first and only full class added to Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition. It fills a vital niche on both a mechanical and thematic front. Artificers are magical tinkerers as at home with the mechanical as they are with magic. They're also D&D 5e's only arcane half-caster, acting as a counterpart to the divine paladin and ranger.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 21:15:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/dnd-5e-most-powerful-artificer-build/ When first meeting solo indie developer Tomas Sala, it's difficult not to get immediately swept up in the enthusiasm and passion he has for making things. Though this obviously applies to games in general, it soon becomes obvious that his interests and understanding extend far more deeply into the realms of design, mechanics and function, all of which go on to form the basis for his approach to game development. Sala became well known as a solo developer after the release of The Falconeer, a BAFTA-nominated air combat game that saw the player take control of a majestic warbird in an oceanic and battle-scarred world. The game currently sits on a 9/10 rating on Steam and was successful enough to convince the developer that there was a future for the world he had created within it.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 19:00:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/tomas-sala-bulwark-falconeer-chronicles-interview/ Starfield is full of interesting characters, including some who eventually take on the role of companions to players on their journey to retrieve mysterious Artifacts for the Constellation research team at the Lodge in New Atlantis. Each of these characters has their own backstory, their own purpose, and even their own opinions. This makes every conversation with them meaningful and worth having. However, there are two characters players will encounter who prove even more intriguing.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 17:51:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/starfield-hunter-emissary-trivia-history/ One of the first scenes from the Pokémon anime is a recreation of the opening from Red and Green. This scene of a Nidorino battling a Gengar begins precisely as it did in the games, complete with monochrome colors and limited animation. Then, it shifts into the style that would become standard for the rest of the series – vibrant colors, dynamic camera angles, and speedy movements. The anime presented Pokémon fans with the world of the games in ways they could only dream of, but it didn't stop at the battles. The characters, stories, music, and many other parts of the anime went beyond what it needed to do as an adaptation.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 16:41:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/is-the-pokmon-anime-less-creative-now/ In the competitive landscape of video gaming, dedicated players consistently achieve mind-blowing gaming records, pushing the boundaries of the imaginable. From marathon sessions that challenge human endurance to speedruns that demonstrate unparalleled skill, these feats captivate enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 23:30:21 GMT https://www.cbr.com/best-video-game-records/ With each passing day, the gaming industry witnesses remarkable expansion. Forecasts for 2023 suggest that the gaming market's revenue might soar to a staggering $187.7 billion, as highlighted by Newzoo, a leading authority in digital game analytics. For enthusiasts and observers alike, the captivating interplay between literature and video games emerges as a significant trend, crafting a mosaic of rich narratives and immersive experiences. Indeed, many of the most popular games of the last decade drew inspiration, or even direct adaptation, from equally successful pieces of fiction. But how did this union form, from words on a page to controllable graphics on a screen, and why do some books translate so well to video games?

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 21:15:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/books-inspiring-video-games-history/ In the universe of online gaming, few cities have captured the imagination and attention of players quite like Los Santos in GTA Online. A sprawling metropolis filled with action, adventure, and hidden treasures, Los Santos offers a dynamic gaming experience that keeps players coming back for more.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 19:00:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/gta-v-online-exploration/ The Dungeons & Dragons sourcebook Mythic Odysseys of Theros presents a world inspired by Ancient Greece. In addition to new races, subclasses, beasts and backgrounds, the book also introduces an all-new pantheon of Theros gods. True to the sourcebook's inspiration, the Theros pantheon and its 15 gods are very involved in mortal lives -- which gives players and Dungeon Masters tons of new material and influences to explore.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 17:51:19 GMT https://www.cbr.com/dungeons-dragons-mythic-odysseys-theros-pantheon/ The slate of upcoming Star Wars video games appears to be very impressive as Lucasfilm ensures that the canon timeline continues to expand with its range of titles. One announcement that really caught the eyes of fans was the news that the classic Knights of the Old Republic is eventually getting a remake. With Aspyr and Lucasfilm Games behind the release, the reveal opened up discussions about what other Star Wars games should be remade. However, KOTOR isn't like other series because of its effect on Star Wars lore.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 16:00:22 GMT https://www.cbr.com/star-wars-kotor-canon-changes/ Although the Final Fantasy franchise has struggled to deliver a satisfying single-player installment in recent years, Final Fantasy XVI released to widespread critical acclaim and quickly cemented itself as one of the best games in the series. Despite its positive reception, XVI's real time combat remains a contentious point among players. While many enjoyed its fast-paced gameplay, plenty of longtime Final Fantasy fans criticized it for straying too far from its turn-based origins. On the other hand, fans of hardcore action titles felt that XVI's attempts to appeal to a broad audience negatively impacted its combat. While the mixed feelings surrounding the combat have led many to view Final Fantasy's increasing focus on action as a mistake, one of the franchise's best spinoffs has already proven that this isn't the case.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 14:10:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/stranger-of-paradise-avoids-ffxvi-gameplay-mistake/ With Mortal Kombat 1 right around the corner, fans are excited to dive into the new elements of the game. At the core of it is the Kameo Mode, allowing players a brutal assist dynamic where other warriors can jump in and help them in battle. It's allowed the likes of Goro to feature in the new realm Liu Kang has created, giving gamers a bigger roster than the 24 playable characters.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 21:56:18 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-underwhelming-motaro-kameo-mode/ For many Dungeons & Dragons players, it's hard to take the Bard class seriously. Because of their high charisma, their persuasion and performance skills allow them to convince just about anyone to do whatever they want while standing on their head and juggling fireballs. They've gained reputations for their promiscuity, and with good reason. Bards are so charismatic that everyone wants a chance to say they had a shot with a legend.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:30:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/dungeons-dragons-bard-colleges-ranked/ As Mortal Kombat 1 nears, many theories running wild online. Fans are making educated guesses on things like player reveals, as well as the roles certain people will have to play. It makes sense given Liu Kang is reshaping characters and their destinies, as seen with General Shao as the new Shao Kahn.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:00:20 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-smoke-hanzo-hasashi-scorpion/ It’s no secret that real-life romance is hard. Sometimes, players simply want to escape into a world where others are unconditionally attracted to them, and that’s a perfectly reasonable, even healthy thing to want sometimes. Gamers are all too familiar with fantasy, so romantic fantasy isn’t much of a leap.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 14:11:17 GMT https://www.cbr.com/dating-sim-video-games-deserve-respect/ Remedy Entertainment released its third game, Alan Wake, in 2010. Not only was it their third game released, but it was also the first one that wasn't part of the Max Payne series. It was a major shift in setting and tone for the studio, going from a modern crime noir pastiche to a psychological thriller that heavily cribs and quotes Stephen King and Lovecraft in Alan Wake.

]]> Sat, 02 Sep 2023 23:30:14 GMT https://www.cbr.com/alan-wake-2-switch-to-survival-horror-might-help-surpass-original/ One of the most intriguing talking points of the Mortal Kombat 1 reboot has been who'd be the villains. Many found it odd Liu Kang, as the Fire God, remade a reality where evil could rise up again. But the "It's In Our Blood!" tagline does reiterate: these goons will always find a way to sneak out the shadows and upset the established order.

]]> Sat, 02 Sep 2023 21:15:14 GMT https://www.cbr.com/mk1-game-most-powerful-villain-kronika-returns/