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With interesting stories and plenty of coffee to go around, Café Paris is a chill simulator game that will fit right into any simulation fans Steam library. Personally, it’s not something that I am going to be playing religiously. If I have no idea what I want to play, it’s definitely a good filler game that you can hop in and out of without feeling like you need to catch up. As a result of that I’m going to give Café Paris the Thumb Culture Silver Award.
The Spirit of the Samurai has a great art style, but the story itself needs fleshing out. I had a few major issues with input lag throughout the game, which led to many pointless deaths. The combat is okay, but I found the combo system useless and the same for leveling up. I didn’t really use the bow either, as most of the time it felt like I had to be near the enemy. I really hated the checkpoints in this game and more so in the end-game area. If you die, you go all the way back, which was annoying. Especially when you have to fight across a bridge before fighting a boss. Some areas go on for too long, especially with waves of enemies. Chisai’s segments are cute but felt like they could be removed from the game and it wouldn’t change anything. The biggest thing to really tick me off was the final boss fight. I had horrendous drops in the frame rate when against him. The boss himself wasn’t hard, but frames would screw me over when attacking. The game seems a lot more on the artsy side for me compared to the actual gameplay. I find it deserves the Thumb Culture Silver Award, maybe after a couple of updates to fix the frames and controls it could be bumped to a gold.
My feelings are mixed on Universe For Sale. As a point and click game heavily focused on narrative, it has an understandably light touch on gameplay. I enjoyed the mini-games, particularly the re-wiring activity in the market. The universe creation was my favourite aspect of the gameplay, though this was slightly marred by my buggy experience. In terms of the story, it’s serviceable. But I feel like sometimes certain elements were not explored far enough, and I was perhaps overly confused on my first play through. Especially in regards to the sequence of events. The art throughout the game is the most outstanding element. In fact it’s perhaps reason enough on its own to check the game out. Ultimately, Tmesis Studio’s first game has put them on my list of developers to keep an eye on. Universe For Sale signals that this team have the ability to create gorgeous games. They have some interesting world-building ideas floating around that just need a little more refining and some more room to shine. This talented group have a bright future, and I’m excited to see what they will move onto next. Universe For Sale receives a Thumb Culture Silver Award.
I thought that Empire of The Ants was going to have a lot more gameplay centred around the building of the colony. Now, don’t get me wrong, commanding armies against other bugs/insects is fun. But when I think of ants, I think of them as an entire colony. The combat is fun and engaging, although slow, especially when units are moving to a location. However, the ant we play should also be more a part of the action and not just use buffs. I do like the movement of the controlled ant. As the story starts off simple, I definitely say keep playing and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. It becomes rather fun and interesting, and when it did, I was hooked. I was surprised to learn that Empire of The Ants was also based on the book, which I looked into further, and honestly, I was intrigued. I’m awarding Empire of The Ants the Thumb Culture Gold Award. It’s a good relaxing RTS.
Overall, 10 Dead Doves is a wonderful and weird experience, that constantly keeps you on your toes. You never really know what to expect, whether it is a vivid dream sequence or a Saw-like test that’s timed. As someone who struggles to play horror games, 10 Dead Doves does a perfect job pacing the horror with perfectly timed comedic relief, lulling you into a sense of safety only to surprise you again. The gameplay isn’t overly complex, which works well as it allows the story to shine. The voice acting is commendable and fits the overall tone of an early 2000s horror movie, combined with an original score making 10 Dead Doves a fully-packaged game made with passion. I award 10 Dead Doves the Thumb Culture Platinum Award.
Emergency Call 112: The Attack Squad is probably one of the worst sims I’ve played. The level is three maps repeated which is boring. The stamina bar kills the whole thing since it’s useless (unless being a burden is its function). Some missions are both stupid and pointless with one just being you walking around a building to grab a spider. The whole thing just feels like a cash grab and the A.I. sounding dispatcher isn’t something I like as well. I would have rather had silent text. I’m giving it the Thumb Culture Bronze Award, Although I wouldn’t suggest grabbing this game.
Flint: Treasure of Oblivion isn’t without its flaws. The lack of a map showing where you are on it, the occasional bugs, and the reliance on dice rolls might put off some players. However, the game’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The comic-book storytelling, atmospheric music, and pirate-themed adventures make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Savage Level have created a world that’s as charming as it is challenging, and while it might not be smooth sailing all the way, the journey is well worth it. So grab your dice, recruit your crew, and set sail. This is one treasure you won’t want to leave buried. With its engaging presentation, tactical depth, and sheer pirate charm, Flint: Treasure of Oblivion earns itself a Thumb Culture Gold Award.
Home Sports is a delightful entry into the mixed reality gaming space that may not redefine sports gaming, but it successfully bridges the gap between nostalgic fun and future innovation. This game is a must-try for Meta Quest 3 users seeking an engaging, family-friendly MR experience. There are many VR sports games but this title deserves a chance or two for everyone. I award Home Sports the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
The gameplay itself is okay and does its job at entertaining you with various weapons. I renovated the church rather quickly, which is a little disappointing, because I wish there was more to do with it besides confessionals. The exorcisms are fun unless attempting to beat Parson’s time, mainly because I’d get caught on the smallest thing. And my currently equipped gloves would keep switching out, making me lose time. I never fully understood the story, apart from Olok wanting his powers back and to get home to his Batoom. The story was just weird and a mess. Priest Simulator: Vampire Show primarily focuses on the dry humour, rather than making the gameplay better. Which is ultimately it’s downfall. Personally, I am just not a fan of this type of comedy. Maybe it is funnier in Polish, but not so much in English. Now, I’m giving Priest Simulator the Thumb Culture Silver Award simply for the fact that the game runs fine, and the gameplay is somewhat decent.
Blood on the Thames is one you have to experience for yourself to get a true feel of what’s on offer. I’ll certainly be playing on, savouring every reveal and twist the story has to offer. There is a lot of narrative to get through, which may deter some gamers who relish action and fast-paced games. The story plays out over time instead of suffocating you with narrative exposition all in one go. The game reveals random weirdness over time. For example, it has scenes of computer coding, alluding to a simulation type backstory. Overall it’s a solid point and click murder mystery. I award Blood on the Thames the Thumb Culture Silver Award!
Since starting Enigma of Fear, I just haven’t put it down. The levels are well designed, back-tracking does become annoying, but with the amount of fun I had, it’s easily forgiven. I love the puzzles in the game that really challenged me, such as the statues. Lupi is adorable, and the cast is great. Although I’m not a huge fan of Agatha’s voice. The music fits the scene and really helps set the tone. The game is just so interesting and captivating. Enigma of Fear is going into my replay pile, right with Crow Country. Gameplay is fun and engaging, but I do wish there were less notes. I understand developers use them for world building, but I wish they would try other ways. Such as videos or just another cinematic. I appreciate this is more a pet peeve of mine with games in general rather than just this one though. The teams at Dumativa, and Cellbit achieved something great here. Now, honestly, the only thing mystery I have is, why isn’t anyone playing or talking about Enigma of Fear more? Enigma of Fear is fully deserving of the Thumb Culture Platinum Award.
Go Home Annie is fun with some interesting aspects but the story, while straightforward, feels like it’s missing key parts. One being the bounding with the two side characters you can talk to. I feel like we should have more interactions to better develop them. The actual SCPs are great, although it feels like they take a backseat in the game. The puzzles were enjoyable, especially the house ones with the four rooms. The car segment went on too long honestly and the driving was a little clunky. A few bugs occurred during my play through where the map wouldn’t load, leaving me in a black room. It was easily fixable by loading a previous save, but it happened a couple times. Now, Go Home Annie is a fun short mystery game with little twist, but as a game based in the SCP Universe. Personally, I found it lacking, but for more adept SCP lore lovers, you might think otherwise. If you love the SCP Universe, this might be up to your alley. I’d also recommend checking out SCP: Secret Files. I’m giving Go Home Annie the Thumb Culture Silver Award.
Being a massive Disney fan, I’m surprised it has taken me so long to really get stuck into Dreamlight Valley, but The Storybook Vale has well and truly started that addiction. With gadgets and gizmos plenty, it’s clear to see why people love this game. The Storybook Vale expansion receives the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
Dav Pilkey’s world of Dog Man has been recreated lovingly. I’m sure he would be proud of the game. Dog Man: Mission Impawsible is platforming at its best. It’s also a lot of fun to play through. I’ve spent a few evenings playing the game along with the TC Mini Crew and it’s given me an experience that can’t be replaced. Those core memories will live with me for a lifetime. Dog Man: Mission Impawsible receives the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
I had a pretty decent time playing through The Cabin Factory. It’s a really unique and interesting approach to the horror genre. It definitely has the ability to eventually be a contender for one of the best. That being said, the ending (which I have and haven’t mentioned) really did disappoint me. I also found that once you were in the post-game and just had endless cabins coming at you that things got really repetitive for very little reward. I really am looking forward to seeing where this game goes and I will revisit it at some point but for right now, it just didn’t live up to the hype. As a result, I have to give The Cabin Factory the Silver Thumb Culture Award.
When I first reviewed Maestro as a base game I said it was “Pure, Brilliant, Indulgent Fun” In fact I was quoted on that! The Double Jack team have somehow taken a brilliant VR game and improved upon it with even more fantastical musical masterpieces. I was already hooked on the game but the Maestro Secret Sorcery Pack has solidified it for me. I for one hope this isn’t the last pack we see either. I’d love to see more of John William’s works in Maestro, perhaps of the space opera variety? The Maestro Secret Sorcery Pack receives the Thumb Culture Platinum Award.
Completely Stretchy is just a fantastic game to switch off to and be your best sticky and stretchy self. I had so much fun playing and I am itching to get back to it. It’s been a while that a game has offered so much delight in one place like this before, for me anyway, and I revel in this silliness of this world. I can’t wait to recommend this game to everyone I know and watch them experience the same wonderful moments. I love how the game just lets you loose into this world and rewards your curiosity. Based on the fact I had a massive smile on my face watching the trailer and was in hysterics playing Completely Stretchy, I happily reward this game with a Thumb Culture Platinum Award.
Murky Divers is supposedly playable in solo mode. It might just be because I suck at the game, but I heavily advise against this. The submarine has a lot to manage, and although it’s not demanding, trying to run away from the oncoming threats like the Leviathan and Kraken makes it challenging. I wasn’t able to check sonar, quickly swim to the engine to move the sub, then once again swim quickly to the wheel. It might just be a skill issue, but when it’s done solo, it just wasn’t fun. However, when I was joined by the TC crew, we easily organized and operated the submarine. With the submarine conquered we came across another issue. When arriving at the expedition, we could barely survive due to how aggressive the monster was. Often these beasts were blocking the entranceway of the building we had yet to enter. Which became a chore. Add to that our wanted levels were nearly full after two missions, meaning the ocean police were gunning for us, it all became a bit tedious. I had fun with Murky Divers, I did, but as mentioned above, it removes the fun when you’re just getting trapped or killed instantly by a giant ghost fish time time and time again. Maybe others might fair better than me, or maybe I’m better suited for Lethal Company. With all that, I award Murky Divers the Thumb Culture Silver Award.
Ballionaire is a charming game that is here for a good time, not a long time. It doesn’t ask too much besides wanting you to have fun. Doesn’t matter if that’s a fair weather visit, or if you get the infamous “one more run” feeling. The presentation is immediately fun and delivers a carnival-like atmosphere. The gameplay reinforces this, but also offers a surprising challenge. Exploiting synergies are the key to success! As a full package, Ballionarie personally resonated with me as a reminder what the joy of playing games is. Even if it’s sometimes frustrating, and would benefit from accessibility improvements. Ballionaire profits from earning the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
Shop Simulator: Supermarket is like most sims I’ve played lately, doing the same mundane thing over and over. In the end, it comes down to preference for what occupation might spark your interest. Issues that did appear were small and a quick restart fixed it. Gameplay is okay and you can kill time by easily with it. I think making the game multiplayer definitely helps make it fun. You can bring your own bitchy gossip and work place drama to life to really help with the immersion. In conclusion, Shop Simulator: Supermarket is what you make of it, I can’t say I hated or loved it. Time to scan it with the Thumb Culture Silver Award and shelve it with the rest.