The Beta Network
HomepageThe Beta Network's Reviews
From fast-paced, tricky time trials to relaxing photography sessions that are more chill than yoga, this simulator is an aviation fan’s wet dream… Well, when it wants to work, that is. Not only have people had issues simply reaching the main menu after installing the game, but it takes a good 2-3 minutes to start flying on PC every single time; even longer if your internet's as fast as a sleepy koala.
LEGO Horizon Adventures disappoints despite its humorous narrative. Repetitive levels, limited combat, and a lack of character variety make it a far cry from what a LEGO game should be. While the visuals are nice, the gameplay is stale and unimaginative. It's a missed opportunity for both the Horizon and LEGO franchises.
While the graphical enhancements, quicker load times and bundled Frozen Wilds DLC make for a strong package, they don’t exactly justify the Horizon Zero Dawn Remaster, given how polished the original 2017 release already was. However, through all the repetitiveness of its open-world structure and exposition-heavy dialogue, this game certainly has its moments of magnificence.
Ys X: Nordics introduces an interesting combat system with Duo Mode, but it quickly becomes repetitive due to limited party dynamics and a lack of damage type mechanics. While the exploration and improved graphics are highlights, the slow-paced story, Saturday morning cartoon villains and so-so gameplay make the experience fall short of expectations, especially when compared to previous entries in the series.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is a thrilling JRPG with a unique story and the typical engaging gameplay elements that Atlus is known for. The combat is challenging, featuring the press turn battle with a new risk-reward system adding depth to the classic turn-based formula. While the game shares some similarities with the Shin Megami Tensei and Persona series, such as social stats and character bonds, it carves its own path with a captivating narrative and stunning world. The excellent voice acting, music, and visuals further enhance the experience, making it a must-play for JRPG fans.
Bloober Team have triumphantly maintained the essence of Silent Hill 2, all while adapting its gameplay and graphics for today’s audience. With its expanded exploration, tense combat, great puzzles, gripping story, music and atmosphere, this remake has fully realised the original’s true potential.
Despite FC 25 introducing a host of few new features, it still mostly feels like a retread of last year’s entry. That being said, the gameplay remains incredibly solid both online and off, with added realism to make passing and shielding truer to real life. Albeit, you will occasionally stumble upon issues like erratic goalkeeper behaviour and glitching/crashing on PC.
Even with the help of three Square Enix vets, Reynatis has regrettably fallen short. Its dated PS2-like graphics, copy-paste environments, blatantly reused boss fights and annoying mechanics inevitably damper this 12-hour action RPG. While Shibuya looks lovely, the combat is flash and the narrative about wizards overcoming oppression is intriguing, the gameplay, story and certain characters could’ve been fleshed out further. The drama does have its moments and the Japanese voice-acting is high quality, it’s just a shame that the experience leaves much to be desired.
The Plucky Squire features a beautifully charming aesthetic, blending a children’s storybook style with inventive, varied gameplay inspired by Zelda: A Link Between Worlds.
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions has bolted down the formula with an exciting game of broomstick ball, featuring a diverse cast of Harry Potter characters, various positions to play, and simple-to-pick-up, hard-to-master controls. However, it severely lacks major gameplay modes and a dedicated story, while also suffering from highly repetitive commentary and a required internet connection just to start the game. Blimey!
Astro Bot is a delightful platformer that excels in delivering a fun, nostalgia-filled experience for PlayStation fans. The intuitive controls, immersive DualSense features, and visually stunning levels make it a joy to play. While the challenge might be lighter than some platformers, it more than makes up for it with its charm, creativity, and heart-warming nods to PlayStation’s history. If you’re a PS5 owner looking for a feel-good adventure, Astro Bot is an absolute must-play.
Age of Mythology Retold is an awesome remake of a classic RTS, staying true to its roots with a bunch of modern enhancements
Concord's story isn’t particularly intriguing, the characters aren’t memorable, half of the game modes don’t exactly fit and the progression is lacking at best. Does this sound like a live-service that has staying power? Probably not.
Hellblade II is an unequivocally bland game, with repetitive combat and puzzles that lack any overarching sense of excitement.
Stellar Blade is a fun hack-and-slash that leaves a little to be desired. The story is decent, the combat is challenging, but traversal and some mechanics bring the experience down. There is a lot to enjoy here, and despite its flaws, it should keep you entertained for a while.
Being a homage to the classic Suikoden series, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes contains a PS1-like nostalgic appeal, a decent story and varied dungeon designs throughout. However, it’s held back by tedious recruitment processes, lacklustre battle systems and pacing issues that drag down the potential level of enjoyment.
While my sentiments about this title may seem overly negative, the core gameplay of TopSpin 2K25 is nothing but addictive. Seeing those timing metres land in the ‘Perfect’ zone, as you smack a winner down the line after an intense rally really gets the blood pumping. It’s practically everything else around 2K25 that stops it from being amazing. Whether it be the bland MyCAREER mode, clay-looking graphics or completely missing matchday commentary, these aspects inherently diminish the overall package.
Becoming a bullet and strategically eliminating targets across the map is a blast in Children of the Sun. The levels are challenging and dynamic, and will surely entice players to keep improving their scores. It's a shame that the story isn't anywhere near as good, but it doesn't take away from the addictive puzzle-shooting action.
Ereban: Shadow Legacy is a fun stealth adventure with innovative shadow mechanics and a captivating world. Despite some bugs, the core gameplay and cleverly designed levels create a rewarding stealth experience.
While it may not be as riveting as its turn-based contemporaries, South Park: Snow Day! showcases an enjoyable 3D action battle system built for 4 players online, combined with the iconic comedic writing of Trey Parker and Matt Stone.