Matt Donahue
Cities Skylines 2 is a worthy successor to the long standing original city builder
This game is made for Star Trek fans through and through. From the well-crafted story elements to the small random easter egg events, there is something for those with various entry points into the fandom.
Age of Wonders 4 is a fantastic entry in the Age of Wonders series, giving players freedom and choice. The game is so full of customization that it gives unlimited possibilities that no two games will ever be the same, nor would anyone want them to be.
Victoria 3 is a game that requires patience and homework, but once you get the hang of things can be tons of fun. The game offers so much variety both in terms of ways to play and succeed along with unique challenges in the array of nations to choose from to play with. Victoria 3 definitely has some things it can improve on and can be a lot to ingest for new players. However, we already know there are more updates and content coming in the pipeline so there will be continued support and Victoria 3 can only get better from here.
Overall, the Planet Zoo: Aquatic Pack expands on the lacking water dimension of the game. The addition of the seals and penguins along with finally pre-made waterfalls are the shining parts of this DLC. The time-challenge will be good for players that are already a fan of them but can lead to issues if they are missing prior DLC. The Planet Zoo: Aquatic Pack was also released with a free content update (Update 1.4) that is available to all players. This brought some new features that really help players and additional content along with some improvements.
Per Aspera is a unique planetary simulation game that brings a narrative, exploration, and even combat to the genre. There is plenty to do with tons to build in Per Aspera as you get to experience terraforming and colonizing Mars that is based on real-life science. I really enjoyed this game and think there is plenty of potential for this game as it continues its life cycle and things are only going to get better.
Mars Horizon is a game that anyone who ever wanted to be an astronaut dreamed of having. The ambient music sets the tone for players as they set off the uncover the Solar System. This is by far one of the hardest games I’ve had to review in that on the surface this game looks so simple and monotonous, but as you break it down you get to unravel all the challenges and complexities it has to offer.
Overall, if you loved any of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games you are going to love this game. Whether its the feeling of nostalgia, the great gameplay, or even just the incredible soundtrack there is something for anyone and everyone in this remaster.
Beyond Blue is an educational science simulator. The core of the game is based in actual science by actual real world experts. Whether it be all the animal facts and ocean design or the 17 mini-documentaries called Ocean Insights, Ocean Insights are short videos taken from Blue Planet II that give insight from real experts. This game isn’t fast and it isn’t hard, but it was never intended to be. It is intended to showcase and highlight the wonders of the ocean.
When it’s all said and done, “Hot Garbage” is an amazing addition to Journey to the Savage Planet and offers up an entirely new world to explore. With new collectibles and even the ability go underwater, Typhoon Studios built out a comprehensive new planet that adds more to the game in a way that makes it well worth the $7.99 it costs.
Overall, the Planet Zoo: South America Pack allows players to bring the jungle to the life whether be by making the next lost civilization exhibit or just hanging out with a herd of llamas. The content is a little light since it’s just four habitat animals and one exhibit animal. I am a big builder and jungle lover so the 250 plus scenery items add a whole new Planet Zoo experience.
“Seat of Power” is a relatively small DLC, where other like the “Sunken Treasures” and “The Passage” added more to the World Map, this one’s impact is more about how you can add both difficulties and ease to your playthroughs, by adding a new mechanic to city management. With that goal, “Seat of Power” succeeds and is a wonderful addition to the Anno 1800 and start to the game’s season 2.
Overall, the Planet Zoo Arctic Pack seems to be light on overall content but still adds plenty to an already existing great game.
Mad Games Tycoon is a decent simulation game with plenty of potential, but with the lack of any sort of descriptions explaining basic features of the game it is hard to recommend to any casual player. The game requires lots of trial and error or searching the internet for possible guides.
I see and understand some of the frustrations from other players, but this game is just too good and has too much to offer to just be tossed aside this early in the game’s life. If you a fan of the simulation genre then I fully recommend Planet Zoo.