Gaming Archives - Rigorous Themes Wordpress, Productivity, Technology, Gadgets Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:30:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/cropped-icon-32x32.png Gaming Archives - Rigorous Themes 32 32 10 Best 2 Player Shooting Games On PS4 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/best-2-player-shooting-games-on-ps4/ Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:03:10 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=125919 Are you looking for a shooting game that you can play on the PS4? There are plenty of co-op games that you can play with a friend while shooting bad guys, zombies, and enemies. In this article, I will be showing you the best two player shooting games for the PS4. You can team up ...

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Are you looking for a shooting game that you can play on the PS4?

There are plenty of co-op games that you can play with a friend while shooting bad guys, zombies, and enemies.

In this article, I will be showing you the best two player shooting games for the PS4. You can team up with a friend in person and play in split screen mode, or, depending on the game, play together with a friend online.

In a first-person shooting game, you see the world through the eyes of your character, so you don’t see the actual character.

Whereas in third-person shooting games, you control the character, but you can see it as if you were looking over its shoulder.

Here, I will be including both first-person and third-person shooting games. These games all involve shooting and lots of action, so get ready!

Quick Summary

My favorite two-player shooting games for the PS4 include:

  • Hunt: Showdown
  • Call of Duty: Vanguard
  • Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
  • Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance
  • Sniper Elite 5
  • Dead Nation

Read on for the full list of two-player shooting games for the PS4!

Best 2 Player Shooting Games on PS4

1. Hunt: Showdown

In Hunt: Showdown, you can pair up with a friend as two bounty hunters, with the goal of killing mysterious monsters that roam the marshes of Louisiana.

These monsters are controlled both by other players and artificial intelligence. The game can support up to 12 players, who can operate solo or pair up in teams of two or three.

There are three maps where the monsters might be located. To hunt down the monsters, you will need to collect clues.

When you kill monsters, you will be able to earn rewards. With these rewards, you can upgrade your weapons arsenal.

You can also kill other bounty hunters to steal the bounties they have earned from killing monsters. That means that you also have to protect yourself from being killed by other bounty hunters.

When you kill a monster and collect a bounty, you can see where other bounty hunters are located, but other bounty hunters can also see where you are.

The ultimate goal is to survive against these monsters long enough so that you can reach an extraction point.

There are several extraction points. They are located on specific areas of the map.

2. Call of Duty: Vanguard

Call of Duty: Vanguard features a 1v1 player mode, allowing you to play against a friend directly. It is a first-person shooting game that places you at the end of World War II.

Few people have survived this war, and your job is to turn the war around and help the allies win.

From airdropping over France to defending Stalingrad, Call of Duty: Vanguard takes you back in time to a chaotic time in history. It has amazing gun play and game mechanics.

You can even play in Zombies mode, which is an expansion of the Dark Aether storyline in Call of Duty.

In Zombies mode, you have to fight an army of Nazis that came back to life as zombies. The army is led by Oberführer Wolfram Von List, who has the power to bring people back to life.

3. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Unlike Call of Duty: Vanguard, which takes place in a historic setting, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare takes place in a modern and realistic setting.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare has a limited-time game mode that supports 1v1 play with a friend on the Rust map.

In Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, agents from the CIA and the British intelligence agency SAS partner with rebels from the Republic of Urzikstan, which is a fictional place.

The goal is to fight off the Russian army and the Al-Qatala terrorist group, which are taking over the country of Urzikstan.

When you lose in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, you are sent to the gulag. There, you can engage in 1v1 gameplay to get a chance to return to the game.

4. Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance is a game that you can play alone or with a friend on your PS4. You can choose from three characters when you start playing.

Vahn, for example, is an archer. You can shoot arrows, including special types of arrows, such as exploding arrows and arrows made of ice.

Other characters can shoot as well. For example, Adrianna is a sorceress who is able to shoot ice and fire from her fingers.

As a sorceress, she can also cast spells.

In this game, you have to complete quests in the order that they come to you. There are also side quests that you can complete, but they don’t have the same urgency as the main quests.

There are several difficulties in gameplay, but you can only reach the Extreme level after completing the gauntlet. The gauntlet is a special mini dungeon, but you can only unlock the gauntlet after completing the game in one of the easier modes.

When playing with a friend, you can share your same screen in co-op mode. The player who lands the kill in co-op mode gets 60% of the rewards, with the other player getting the rest.

5. Returnal

Returnal is a third-person shooting game. In Returnal, Selene Vassos, who is an astronaut that landed on the mystical planet of Atropos, finds herself stuck on the planet while searching for the White Shadow.

Her spaceship, Helios, has crashed. Her base is no longer contactable.

If you like psychological horror games, you will like Returnal. It’s not for the weak-minded, though.

As a player in Returnal, you control Vassos, your character. You have high-tech weapons, and you have to protect yourself against your enemies’ weapons, which include fireballs, lasers, and all kinds of scary attacks.

You can shoot down your enemy and switch between several shooting and attack modes. With ultra-fast load speeds, you can keep on fighting, even after dying.

If you die from an attack, you will be looped back to the time you crashed. However, your corpse will remain at the point where you died.

So, you will come across corpses of yourself remaining from previous lives. You will also come across old memories when you enter what appears to be a replica of your childhood home.

One of the horrors of the plot is that you learn that your ship was destroyed due to your own fault, as you used an alien weapon to shoot it down. I won’t reveal some of the other details of the storyline, as I don’t want to ruin it for you.

Eventually, the goal of the game is to track down the White Shadow, after which you will be able to reconnect with your base and have a rescue team sent after you to rescue you and bring you back to Earth.

Returnal supports co-op mode, so you can play with a friend. You can even play with a friend over the internet with PS Plus.

6. Sniper Elite 5

In Sniper Elite 5, you find yourself in the year 1944, as a sniper attached to an army battalion. Your task is to snipe the Nazis in Operation Overlord.

You will also sneak your way into enemy territory, making your way through the enemy encampments while ensuring you are not spotted.

It’s one of the best shooting games if you like to see how your bullet penetrates your enemies. This third-party shooting game is a delight to play if you like gory scenes.

If you want to play a sniper, this is the game for you. As you embark on missions, you will be improving your skills.

Each mission could take several hours and is fraught with danger. Don’t let the Nazis see you!

In co-op mode, you can play with a friend. It’s a lot more fun to play with a friend, because your buddy can watch your back and keep an eye out for you.

It’s a lot more scary and dangerous to do it all alone. You can also share ammo with your friend and pool your resources together to make a more deadly and powerful force.

You can also heal each other when you get wounded, making it easier to get back into the action after an injury.

7. Far Cry 6

Far Cry 6 is a first-person shooter game developed by Ubisoft. The game takes place on Yara, which is a Caribbean island ruled by a dictator called Anton Castillo.

Anton Castillo is played by actor Giancarlo Esposito, who you may know as the actor who played Gus Fring on Breaking Bad.

When you play, you take on the role of Dani Rojas, a guerrilla fighter who is trying to bring down the regime of the dictator Anton Castillo.

You can traverse the island and the world by foot or by vehicle. There are seven regions within this world, including jungle, terrain, urban areas, and other types of regions.

There are plenty of weapons you can use in this game, including sidearms, shotguns, submachine guns, assault rifles, and other weapons. A lot of the fighting takes place in close combat scenarios, which makes it quite fun but also scary.

The game gets harder as you play, with your enemies getting more advanced weapons. That obviously makes it a lot more difficult to fight them.

As a guerrilla fighter, you can build a camp with resources. You can also recruit “amigos” to fight for you.

Your ultimate goal is to completely topple the dictatorship on the island.

8. Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville

In Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville, you have to defend your tower against an onslaught of zombies.

It is a third-person shooter game. You can play the part of the plants and defend against the zombies.

The zombies are controlled by Dr. Zomboss.

There are 20 customizable player classes to choose from in total. Each victory earns you rewards.

You can team up with your friend either in person or online. You can play against others online or brave it out in the chaotic Battle Arena.

9. Broforce

Broforce is a chaotic shooting game for the PS4. The Broforce is a paramilitary organization consisting of “bros” and known for its use of excessive force.

The “bros” fight off terrorists and rescue prisoners of war that were taken by terrorists. The ultimate goal is to defeat the final boss, hoist the American flag on enemy territory, and escape with a helicopter amidst the destruction.

The head of the Broforce is Nelson Brodela, a parody of Nelson Mandela. Broforce characters are based on fictional characters such as Chuck Norris, John Rambo, and the Terminator T-800.

There is the Rambro and the Brominator, for example.

When you start the game, you can’t choose which bro you play. That is one of the things I didn’t like so much about Broforce.

You are simply given a character. When you rescue a prisoner of war, or when your character is killed, you will be switched to a new character, so you get a chance to play all of them.

Each bro has a unique weapon that is based on the fictional character used as inspiration for the character.

The terrain in Broforce is destructible. In other words, when shooting, you can destroy the terrain and thus gain a strategic advantage.

With Broforce, you can play with your buddies. You can also cut ties with them and fight against them!

10. Dead Nation: Apocalypse Edition

In Dead Nation, you find yourself in a world crippled by a zombie apocalypse. This zombie apocalypse resulted due to the spread of a deadly virus throughout human society.

You are leaving your shelter after a year of sheltering in place, because you are looking for some food and water.

You can be a female or male fighter, but your goal is to fight these zombies.

In Dead Nation, you can play with a friend, fighting zombies together, or walk down the Road of Devastation. On the Road of Devastation, you will be facing zombie hordes without any second life, so every mistake counts!

You must fight your way through the levels of the game. As you level up, you will find boxes of ammunition and weapons, which you can use to fight these zombies.

Don’t let yourself get hit by the zombies, because you will lose health.

You can attract zombies in different ways.

For some reason, zombies are attracted to vending machines, for example. They are also attracted to car alarms and grenades.

Meanwhile, as you fight the zombies, you will be making your way to a hospital on the other side of the city. Doctor Morton, a doctor you encounter who claims to be developing a cure for the virus, needs a sample from patient zero from that hospital.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of games that you can play with a friend.

The PS4 doesn’t have many shooting games in which you can play in 1v1 mode, but there are many games that support co-op mode.

In co-op mode, either in couch co-op or online, you can team up with your best friend and fight your enemies together.

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10 Best 2-Player Zombie Games On PS4 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/best-2-player-zombie-games-on-ps4/ Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:08:26 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=124262 Most times, you don’t need to engage in tough outdoor activities with friends to get your adrenaline pumping. Teaming up to fight against scary virtual zombies on your PS4 is another adventure. Not only is it a great way to bond, but you can also cheer and laugh when things get crazy. There are a ...

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Most times, you don’t need to engage in tough outdoor activities with friends to get your adrenaline pumping. Teaming up to fight against scary virtual zombies on your PS4 is another adventure.

Not only is it a great way to bond, but you can also cheer and laugh when things get crazy.

There are a lot of two-player zombie games on PS4 to try out. Some of them include Dead Rising 4, Dead Nation, World War Z, Killing Floor 2, and Resident Evil 5.

In fact, I have reviewed these interesting games in this article, noting how they are played and the rules to navigate and take down those zombies.

Don’t fail to read to the end.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Horror Games On PS4

Best 2-Player Zombie Games On PS4

1. Resident Evil 5

If you’re a huge fan of the Resident Evil film series, this video game is a good way to relive the experience as the main character in the story.

You’re Chris Redfield, the former Special Tactic and Rescue Service (S.T.A.R.S) and your main mission is to investigate reports of a new bio-organic weapon used somewhere in Africa called Kijuju.

To fulfill this mission, you’re to team up with a partner, Sheva Alomar, who’s also an agent of the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (BSAA).

As both of you embark on this journey, exploring different places, you need to constantly fight off zombies and monsters to stay alive. Since you’re properly armed with guns and explosives, you can easily ward off these creatures.

But be careful, they can get really dangerous and powerful. If you strategize well with your partner, you’ll overcome them.

Aside from the zombies, you also need to solve a lot of puzzles to move forward. They can either be finding hidden objects or figuring out codes. But each puzzle you solve pushes you to the next stage.

Interestingly, the more you progress in the game, the more chances you get to upgrade your weapons to stronger ones. For example, you can buy more powerful guns that will take down the zombies easily.

Bear in mind that you’re only allowed to take a certain amount of items with you at a time. So, you need to decide on the weapons, ammunition, and healing items you’re taking so they don’t weigh you down.

You can play the game with any of your loved ones either in the same room or online. It’s so much fun because you can help each other out and strategize together.

The game is available on PlayStation Store for $19.99.

Check Out: Best Xbox Games For Couples

2. World War Z

World War Z is designed as a multiplayer game, meaning that while you can play it with just one friend, you can also enjoy it with up to four other players.

You start the game knowing that humanity is in trouble and zombies are everywhere. No matter the city you are in, whether New York, Moscow, or Jerusalem, you’re faced with these horrific creatures.

You’re one of the survivors and now you have to team up with other players to fight these zombies and stay alive. I’m not surprised that the game feels like an action movie since the plot is based on a movie.

However, be prepared to face a lot of gore. Your job is to stay alive and complete certain missions, like rescuing people and defending an area against attacking zombies.

The most interesting part is that each player embodies special skills that will help you fight better. It gets intense when zombies attack in groups and you have to use every weapon on you to stop them from getting to you.

One rewarding side of this game is that the more you play and defend these creatures, the more points you earn. You can use them subsequently to unlock better weapons that can fight more zombies and keep you alive.

The game is available on PlayStation at $29.99.

Also Read: Best Free Solitaire Games Without Ads

3. Dead Nation

Dead Nation throws you and a friend into a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. You’re one of the few survivors left and the mission is simple – shoot zombies and stay alive.

The most interesting part of this game is that you’ll play it from a bird’s eye view which allows you to see everything happening from above. This way, you can easily keep track of the zombies as they move around.

With weapons like guns and explosives, it’s easy to take down these creatures and keep them from coming at you. However, as you play you’ll earn points that you can use later to buy better weapons to fight with.

Another fascinating feature of this game is that it comes with two modes. If you choose the story mode, you have to follow specific missions and find out the cause of the zombie attack.

The arcade mode doesn’t have any rules. You try to survive for as long as you can against endless attacks of zombies.

While you can team up with another player, you can decide to make it competitive. There are online leaderboards where you can compete with each other and record your high scores.

The game costs just $14.99 on PlayStation.

Explore: Deceit Game Review

4. Plants vs Zombies

If you want a more lighthearted zombie game, Plants vs Zombies is an excellent choice. A lot of people love the game because it’s fun and easy to play.

Since a lot of zombie games have age limits, this is a good suggestion for your kids. The colorful and cute graphics take away the gore associated with games like this.

As the name suggests, the game is a battle between plants and zombies. You’re to protect your home from the horrific creatures using plants as your defenders.

To conquer this, you have to plant different kinds of plants in your neighborhood. Interestingly, each plant has special powers like shooting peas or creating barriers to stop the zombies from getting close to your house.

While some of the creatures are slow, others are fast and some embody special powers like flying or digging under your plants. You need to be constantly ready to maneuver them.

Additionally, the game allows you to customize your characters. You have 20 classes to choose from and customize to your liking. The best part is that each class has special abilities.

Plants vs. Zombies presents different playing modes. If you choose the adventure mode, you’ll go through different levels and unlock new plants as you go.

You can purchase the game from the PlayStation Store for $29.99.

Also Read: Best Sitting VR Games

5. 7 Days To Die

In 7 Days To Die, you’re lost in a harsh post-apocalyptic world filled with scary creatures. Your main goal is to find things to help you stay alive like food, water, and weapons.

You also have to build a shelter either from scratch or by taking over existing structures. To keep the zombies out, you can use different materials to build walls and traps.

Additionally, you create and repair weapons, clothes, armor, tools, and vehicles. As you play this game, keep in mind that your world is fully destructible and you need to stay alive until the end.

You might easily explore during the day but once night sets, the zombies get more dangerous, so you have to be extra careful. It’s also fascinating how the game can be played from a first-person or third-person point of view.

You have a lot of creative control and you can explore your world as you like. When playing with a friend, you can even use the split-screen mode to make it more engaging.

The game costs only $29.99 on PlayStation.

Check Out: Best Games Like Toca Boca

6. Dead Rising 4

You should reserve this zombie video game for the Christmas season. However, you can still play it if you want to get into the holiday mood.

As Frank West returns to Willamette, he’s saddled with the responsibility of uncovering the truth behind the recent zombie outbreak. You’ll walk in his shoes, explore the city, and find clues and answers while warding off the dangerous monsters that have taken over the city.

Frank returns during the Christmas season and that’s why you’ll see a lot of festive decorations around the city.

It’s okay if you don’t know so much about the previous versions of the Dead Rising game. You can still get along quickly with this fourth version.

If you have a friend who’s a fan of the series, it makes it even better. Both of you can play it together.

Remember that as you’re fighting off the monsters, you’re also a scavenger. You’ll gather and combine items found in the city to create weapons and gadgets that will help you survive.

These weapons range from guns to explosives and firearms. Dead Rising 4 is also special because it’s story-driven. You’ll enjoy it a lot if you’re a storyteller.

The game is available on PlayStation Store for just $39.99.

Also Read: Best Single-player Switch Games

7. Call of Duty: Black Ops III – Zombies Chronicles

This zombie game has quite an interesting storyline. Imagine that it’s 2065 and there is a major shift in the order of things around the world.

Technology is now more advanced and soldiers are stronger and smarter. You’ll play as one of those special soldiers whose responsibility is to secretly serve the government.

The game has different modes including the Zombie Chronicles. If you’re in that mode, you’ll be exposed to a lot of zombie attacks. It’s your job to battle them and uncover the origin of their outbreak.

There are a lot of thrilling and eerie moments in the game that will leave you gasping in terror and excitement. The twists and surprises will keep you glued to the screen.

The good thing about this game is that you get to choose which character to play as. Every character in the story has unique abilities and weapons that you can harness to your advantage.

Call of Duty: Black Ops III – Zombies Chronicles is available on the PlayStation for $29.99.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Roblox Games

8. Killing Floor 2

You’ll enjoy an immersive gaming experience when playing Killing Floor 2 on PS4. It’s an excellent choice if you and your friends are maniacs with a wild taste to kill horrible monsters.

The game is quite challenging but super cooperative. It’s set in Europe where scientific experiments have gone wrong and unleashed a huge monster outbreak.

When you arrive on the continent with another player, you’ll face a lot of chaos. First, there is no communication, the government has collapsed, and the military is destroyed too. So, there is no law and order.

Despite this chaos, some survivors have not given up hope. They join together to fight the outbreak by setting up bases across Europe.

Your goal is to join this group in their fight for survival. In the course of the battle, you’ll be forced to go into areas filled with dangerous and scary monsters created by the failed experiment.

To stay alive, you should hunt and kill them. The more you destroy, the stronger your skills. You’ll earn points that can subsequently be used to unlock new abilities and weapons.

Interestingly, you can tweak your character’s appearance to however you want plus you have different weapons to play around with.

If you’re interested in this game, you can get it for just $29.99 on PlayStation.

Check Out: Dota 2 Review

9. How To Survive 2

If you’re a huge fan of How to Survive, you should check out this sequel. Here, you and a friend must work together to stay alive in a zombie-infested Louisiana city.

The first step to survival is to build a safe camp, and then look for water and food. Once these are secured, you should learn to talk to unconventional locals in the city to find your way around.

You never know what to expect but rather than take help from a zombie, you’d rather listen to that weird and masked stranger. Interestingly, the game supports more than two players, so, if you have more friends, they are welcome to join.

Your survival chances depend on how cooperatively you work with other players. If you camp and strategize well, you’ll perform better.

How to Survive 2 is better than the previous version. The environments are beautiful plus the camera is now improved to follow your character, and can zoom in and out on the go.

Another interesting feature to note is the elite quests that get activated when you want real challenges. If you consider yourself a survival expert, these special quests are laid out for you.

You’ll set out to achieve a specific objective and if you die in the process, you’ll be sent back to the camp where you deal with the judgemental stares from your friends. But if you surpass the challenges, you’ll be celebrated.

Overall, How to Survive 2 is a highly challenging but immersive survival game. You can purchase it from PlayStation Store for $14.99.

Also Read: Brawlhalla Review

10. Resident Evil 6

Resident Evil is such an interesting video game because you get to play different characters like Leon, Chris, Jake, and Ada.

Each of these characters has different storylines but they are all connected somehow since their main concern is to fight off a dangerous virus called the C-virus. Once you start playing the game, you will see what’s happening from the perspective of these protagonists.

With Leon, his campaign is more about surviving horrific situations while solving puzzles along the way. Chris’ perspective has you fighting big battles while Jake’s campaign is a mix of fighting battles and sneaking around quietly.

When you have achieved the goals of these characters, you finally unlock Ada’s campaign. It’s the last adventure where you solve puzzles and stay stealthy.

If you’re playing this game with a friend, you can support each other to surmount any obstacle. The most fun of the campaigns is the Mercenaries where you have to fight against a lot of monstrous creatures within a certain timeframe.

This campaign is usually intense and fast-paced and gives you the chance to show off your skills or develop them more. You can purchase the game on PlayStation for $19.99.

Check Out: Apex Legends Review

Conclusion

My pick is Dead Nation.

It offers a bird’s eye perspective which allows you to watch everything happening from the top.

This God-like view also helps you to easily keep track of the zombies and everything happening around the city.

But don’t stay limited to my choice, feel free to check out other games. You might like a different title.

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10 Best Xbox Games For Couples https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/best-xbox-games-for-couples/ Thu, 08 Feb 2024 11:14:36 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123973 Firing up your Xbox console and choosing single-player games may not be the best way for you to spend time, especially if your partner is around. Instead opting for games suitable for couples will improve your bond and have fun together. While there are many multiplayer games out there, not all are suitable for couples. ...

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Firing up your Xbox console and choosing single-player games may not be the best way for you to spend time, especially if your partner is around.

Instead opting for games suitable for couples will improve your bond and have fun together.

While there are many multiplayer games out there, not all are suitable for couples. The good news is that there are several games that are absolutely fun and exciting to play.

In fact, I have created a list of some of the best Xbox games for couples so you don’t have to spend a lot of time searching.

Read on.

Also Read: Best Games Like Roblox

Best Xbox Games for Couples

1. It Takes Two

It Takes Two is an exciting action-adventure game that is sure to keep couples entertained whenever they get down to playing. In the game, you and your partner will take on the roles of Cody and May, the main characters.

The pair are turned into dolls by a magic spell and are then trapped in a fantasy world. They must face a myriad of challenges as they also try to patch up their fractured relationship.

Each character has unique abilities and must therefore use them to assist the other. There are also a few connected abilities that require both characters to cooperate to overcome the obstacles ahead.

The game is filled with action and incorporates a few humorous surprises that will have both players laughing out loud. Through this adventure, you’ll have to fight gangster squirrels, become a DJ in a nightclub, and even pilot a pair of underpants.

There are a lot of strange and endearing characters that you can befriend or fight, depending on their intentions. You’ll also love the unfolding storyline that can either make or break Cody and May’s relationship.

You can play the game using two controllers or have your partner join through an online co-op system.

Also Read: Best Free Solitaire Games Without Ads

2. Unravel Two

Unravel Two is another exciting game that will keep you captivated from start to finish. It allows you to play with a partner in a seamless local co-op mode.

You are also free to invite a partner or friend to join your journey. You’ll take up the role of the Yarny who is the main character of the game.

As you progress through different stages, you’ll unlock new abilities that are crucial to overcoming the obstacles ahead. As you advance, you’ll also be able to form new friendships with other players or characters.

The game requires you and your partner to be actively involved in controlling your characters. For instance, you’ll need to master things like sliding, jumping, swinging, and running.

Most importantly, you’ll need to learn how to run with exceptional speed as it is the only way for you to catch the spark that connects you to others. One of the best things about this game is that its settings are inspired by real-life Scandinavian locations.

As you play the game, you’ll start to realize that the way you respond to different situations manifests the creatures you meet. That means fear and hate will manifest monsters ready to destroy you while love and hope manifest adorable creatures ready to be your friends.

The game features state-of-the-art graphics and a deeply touching story to keep you invested up to the end.

Also Read: Deceit Game Review

3. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime

Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime has a local co-op gameplay allowing the participation of two to four players. It immerses gamers deep into space where they have to overcome a variety of challenges to emerge victorious.

For starters, players have to control a massive neon battleship together. Gamers have to collaborate when using turrets, lasers, shields, and thrusters.

In case there is a breakdown in coordination, chances are that the enemies will win. The enemies are against love and anything associated with it which is why they have even kidnapped the adorable space bunnies.

You must rescue the bunnies and avoid a vacuumy demise. Throughout the game, you’ll come across gems you can use to upgrade your ship.

The levels are randomized, meaning every session will take you to a different level and experience. While the controls are pretty simple to learn, the most challenging part of the game is to have everyone coordinate smoothly.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Story Games On PS4

4. Cuphead

If you love classic games, you’ll probably enjoy Cuphead. It takes its inspiration from classic cartoons which is why you’ll notice traditional hand-drawn cel animations, watercolor backgrounds, and old-school jazz recordings.

The local co-op mode allows you and your partner to jump in and enjoy the ride. In the game, you’ll be controlling Mugman and Cuphead who are the two main characters.

It is an action-packed game which is why it places more emphasis on boss battles rather than background storylines. The goal is for you and your partner to run across different worlds while shooting down monsters.

The monsters you’ll be shooting down are debtors who escaped after losing their games in a casino bet with the Devil. You’ll need to shoot down as many debtors as possible to regain your freedom since that is the only way for you to compensate for the debt you owe.

There are plenty of new abilities and secrets to discover as you and your partner move through the different levels of the game.

Check Out: Best Sitting VR Games

5. Overcooked! 2

Overcooked! 2 is the ideal pick for couples who love cooking while also enjoying the adventures of exploring new worlds.

The local multiplayer mode allows you to team up with someone in the same room while the online multiplayer mode makes it possible for you to invite friends who may be anywhere in the world.

To win this game, you’ll need to come up with some of the most creative recipes and cook delicious food around different locations. You’ll get to experience different themes and settings including sushi restaurants, magic schools, mines, and even alien planets.

Whichever dish you choose to cook, you’ll have to learn quickly how it is made. You must know the exact ingredients and time it takes to prepare each dish.

There are times when you’ll need to prepare your dishes in a hurry since you’ll be stationed on moving platforms. Together with your partner, you’ll get the opportunity to assemble a group of chefs who can help you prepare the best dishes.

Also Read: Apex Legends Review

6. Don’t Starve Together

Don’t Starve Together is a survival game that will require you to come up with brilliant strategies to win. You can team up with your partner and make decisions regarding your colony as you move along.

At the start, you’ll have access to a handful of resources that you are supposed to utilize responsibly. This should allow you to establish structures and start farming.

As your colony grows, you’ll start to attract a variety of enemies with some being other players from rival colonies or monsters that seek to destroy your farms.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that your colony will only grow if you have enough food to feed everyone.

In case your food production falls below the minimum requirement, your colony will starve to death. You are free to start talks with other online players and build alliances.

However, even your online alliances can betray you and plunder your resources so you must always be on the lookout at all times. The game is full of hidden dangers, ancient secrets, and odd creatures.

Explore: Brawlhalla Review

7. Moving Out

Moving Out is a simulation game you can play alone or invite up to four people to play alongside you. You’ll take up the roles of furniture arrangement and relocation technicians.

Your work will include moving items from one part of the city to another. You will also have to help owners arrange their furniture in the best possible manner.

This game aims to test your skills when it comes to understanding physics. For instance, you’ll find a table with an awkward design and your work will involve moving it through a door or window in the fastest way possible without causing damage.

At the start, your business will be small and can only employ a few people. However, as you progress you’ll be able to add new colorful characters to help you out.

When playing with your partner, the two of you will have to come up with the best strategies to move and arrange items within the shortest time possible.

Also Read: Dota 2 Review

8. Operation: Tango

Operation: Tango is a game that leans heavily on the espionage theme. In this game, you’ll need to communicate with your partner at all times to unearth important secrets to keep your country safe.

It is slightly different from most games on this list because it is an online co-op only. That means your partner will have to join the game from a different device.

The good news is that the game is not only compatible with Xbox consoles. Instead, it can also work on other devices including PlayStation and PC.

In addition, you can enjoy the game without necessarily using similar devices. For instance, you can play on your Xbox while your partner joins through a smartphone or PC.

Each of you will require a microphone since it is the main mode of communication. You can choose to be the Agent or the Hacker depending on what each one of you finds more exciting.

The game includes different environments to explore, a variety of puzzles to solve, and a myriad of robots to hack and control. The missions available in this game cannot be completed by a single player.

If you love movies such as James Bond or Mr. and Mrs. Smith, you’ll find this game intriguing.

Also Read: Asolver Review

9. Cat Quest II

Cat Quest II is a 2D game that immerses you in a fantasy world of cats and dogs. The game features cats of the Felinguard and dogs of the Lupus Empire.

The game has two main characters with one being a dog and the other being a cat. Both have lost their kingdoms and must therefore muster up enough courage to take them back.

The journey will take you through different environments with dungeons and open fields being among the most prominent. As you move through the different stages, you’ll need to quickly master different skills including how to wield a sword and use staves.

You’ll also gain active and passive abilities to help you overcome challenges and defeat opponents. You even get access to a few magic spells that will bring down seemingly unbeatable bosses.

There are traps at every turn so you’ll need to be extremely careful as you move through new regions. In case you are tired of the main mission, you can always go to side quests with their unique storylines.

Cat Quest II is another option that blends humor into an action-packed game. It also incorporates a charming storyline at its core and will blow your mind with exciting combat sequences.

Check Out: Games Like Toca Boca

10. Castle Crashers Remastered

Castle Crashers Remastered is a 2D arcade adventure game with lots of thrills to keep you entertained at all times. At 60fps, this game has some of the most immersive graphics you’ll find anywhere.

The game has a local co-op mode and an online co-op mode with both versions supporting up to four different players. Mastering the game’s controls is pretty easy so anyone can get used to it quickly.

While playing the game, you’ll need to hack, smash, and slash your enemies to progress. As you rise through the different levels, you’ll unlock over 25 unique characters.

You’ll also find over 40 weapons you can incorporate into your armory. There is a combo and magic system that allows you to overcome even the toughest of enemies.

The game requires you to level up your character otherwise you will not make it through the ultimate bosses. Leveling up involves adding strength, picking up new weapons & magic spells, and even improving agility and defenses.

There is an arena mode that throws you into a chaotic world where every player is on their own. Of course, you can also choose to team up with others to increase your chances of winning.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Gaming Apps To Play On Separate Mobiles

Wrapping Up

You don’t always have to go out and spend money to have fun when you are hanging out with your partner. Instead, you can choose to stay home and enjoy a few sessions of video gaming.

Games such as It Takes Two and Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime can be ideal for couples who want to partner up and overcome obstacles together.

On the other hand, options such as Operation: Tango and Moving Out are perfect for couples who wish to improve their communication.

The post 10 Best Xbox Games For Couples appeared first on Rigorous Themes.

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Counter Strike Global Offensive Review https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/counter-strike-global-offensive-review/ Wed, 07 Feb 2024 05:48:38 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123927 Counter Strike: Global Offensive is an FPS (First-Person Shooter) game released way back in 2012. It has withstood the test of time and remains one of the most popular tactical FPS games. The game is free and fun to play. In this review, I will delve deep into the tactical gameplay of CS2 (Counter Strike ...

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Counter Strike: Global Offensive is an FPS (First-Person Shooter) game released way back in 2012.

It has withstood the test of time and remains one of the most popular tactical FPS games. The game is free and fun to play.

In this review, I will delve deep into the tactical gameplay of CS2 (Counter Strike 2, the upgrade to Counter Strike: Global Offensive) and share my verdict on the best and not so good side.

Let’s get into it.

Also Read: Deceit Game Review

Verdict

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩

Counter Strike: Global Offensive (now Counter Strike 2) is a classic and timeless first-person shooter game. It’s free and hard to beat in terms of popularity and overall fun, but several issues prevented it from getting a full five stars.

Pros

  • The gameplay is fast-paced but still enjoyable.
  • There are many maps and community servers.
  • It’s free to play, and monetization only plays a small role compared to skill and strategy level.

Cons

  • If you are using it on a low-end machine, you may experience performance issues.
  • Cheating remains an issue, especially for people who don’t upgrade to Prime Status.
  • The community can be quite toxic and even verbally abusive in the voice chat.
  • Many of the best features were removed in the 2023 Counter Strike 2 update, and many old-time players prefer the old look.

Also Read: Apex Legends Review

Counter Strike: Global Offensive Review

Counter Strike: Global Offensive has been renamed as Counter Strike 2. It’s the same game, but with some improvements on map quality and visuals.

Modes

Counter Strike 2 has several modes, but the most popular one is the Competitive bomb scenario mode.

In CS2, there are two teams: terrorists and counter-terrorists. If you’re on the terrorist team, you need to plant a bomb on one of the bomb sites.

If you’re on the counter-terrorist team, you need to prevent the terrorists from planting the bomb. Once a bomb is planted, you have 40 seconds to get to the bomb site and defuse the bomb.

By eliminating members of the opposite team, it will be easier to achieve your objectives in the game.

Another popular game style is Hostage. Again, there are two teams, but in this mode, the terrorists have a hostage they have captured while the objective of the counter-terrorists is to rescue that hostage.

Also Read: Games Like Escape From Tarkov

Competitive is the classic game mode that Counter Strike has always been best known for.

In Competitive, each team has five members, and there are 30 rounds to the match, but the first team to win 16 rounds will win the match.

If you don’t want so many rounds to a match, you can opt for Casual mode, which allows you to drop in and out at your leisure. There is also Wingman, which features 2v2 play, allowing you to play with a buddy, and various other game modes.

However, some modes, like Team Deathmatch, were removed in CS2, which frustrated many players.

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Weapons

There are only a few categories of weaponry in the game, but that helps keep it simple. The weapons serve a wide variety of purposes.

For example, while pistols don’t do as much damage as some other weapons, they have a high degree of accuracy. Meanwhile, sniper rifles offer the advantage of a high level of damage and a long-distance range, but they aren’t as portable.

Usually, weapons and other equipment are available to purchase at the beginning of games and at other times during gameplay when you earn in-game currency.

The equipment only varies slightly for the two teams (obviously, you need different equipment to defuse bombs than to set bombs).

Also Read: Best Free Solitaire Games Without Ads

Matchmaking

For competitive play, CS2 offers decent matchmaking. It goes a step beyond standard matchmaking and offers a service called Prime matchmaking.

With Prime, people can only sign up to one account with a verified phone number. This helps ensure that you don’t get matched with smurfs.

Smurfs are experienced players who create new accounts with lower rankings for the purpose of getting matched with less experienced players and defeating them. It’s often done for an ego boost, but it can be frustrating if you’re a lower-ranked player.

With Prime, you will only get matched with other Prime members.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Story Games On PS4

Community Contributions

With the community workshop, players can contribute weapons, maps, and more. There are also community servers, which often offer unique rules and modded gameplay.

Some may be more suitable for beginners, for example, which is helpful due to the long learning curve commonly associated with CS2.

It also gives you endless possibilities for new modes and gameplay styles, keeping things fun, exciting, and fresh.

Of course, since these servers are created by the community, quality can vary. Some may offer a better gameplay experience than others, while some may not do the best job at preventing cheating.

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Monetization

CS2 makes money by selling cosmetics. You can buy directly from the game or from other players via the Steam community trading market.

In addition, you can unlock cases by buying keys, which only cost a few dollars.

Overall, though, the impact on monetization on gameplay abilities is not that high; for example, you can also trade items via trade-ups.

There is also Prime, as mentioned, which comes with advantages such as a better matchmaking system and fewer cheaters.

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What I Liked About Counter Strike 2

There are plenty of good things to say about CS2. There’s a reason it’s still popular over all these years, and since the update, it’s gotten considerably better.

Now, CS2 offers a clean and easy to navigate interface with upgraded texture in its maps and better performance overall.

The overall gameplay experience is great as well. It’s smooth and easy to play, without many lags.

There are many maps available, and there are also many community servers, which helps keep things exciting. You can play CS2 for a long time and not get bored.

It has a great sound design as well and an active esports community.

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Best of all, it’s free to play. It used to cost around $15, but the fee was removed long ago.

Skill plays a big role in CS2. You can earn some advantages by paying, but they are not as significant as in many other FPS games.

Finally, while cheaters do exist, Valve (the developer of CS2) is always getting better at detecting and banning cheaters. Besides, you can always get Prime to avoid cheaters (some will always slip through the cracks, but it mostly prevents the issue).

Also Read: Asolver Review

What I Didn’t Like About Counter Strike 2

Performance is decent but can still be a bit of an issue depending on your operating system. Moreover, while Valve is doing quite a bit to prevent cheating, there is still a fair share of cheaters and hackers, so be prepared for that.

The fact that you need Prime to really avoid cheaters is a significant flaw. Prime Status currently costs $14.99 on Steam, and I believe that if an anti-cheating system was developed, it should have been made available to all players.

Putting it at a premium price isn’t fair, as it puts free players at a disadvantage. If you want to avoid getting matched with a smurf, you might have to pay up.

On the flip side of the coin, people also get banned from matchmaking due to false pretenses, despite doing nothing wrong, which is a serious flaw of the anti-cheating system.

The players can be quite toxic at times. You might want to turn off the chat, as you will have people screaming for no reason in the voice chat, which can be quite disturbing.

There is also a fair share of cyberbullying going on, so if you have young kids playing the game, please monitor their gameplay and ensure their mental health is not suffering.

Customization is an issue. Compared to games like Fortnite, character development is limited.

If you enjoy customizing your characters, you will find CS2 a bit disappointing in that regard. Furthermore, many of the cosmetics available can be quite costly.

Finally, I would say that CS2 has quite a bit of a learning curve. It’s not as bad as Dota 2, for example, but you will suck for several months before you get any good.

And, if you are not willing to pay for Prime Status, you might get matched with smurfs during that time, which can be quite a letdown.

Also Read: Best Xbox Games For Couples

Conclusion

Overall, the pros outweigh the cons. Counter Strike 2 remains one of the best first-person shooter games out there, even though many people don’t like the new look compared to the old style before the CS2 update.

It’s free to play, and while you do have to pay for Prime Status, it’s not that expensive. Skill plays a big role, so do be patient while you improve your skills and rankings.

With many game modes and maps to choose from, you won’t get bored any time soon, so have a go at it!

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8 Best Free Solitaire Games Without Ads https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/best-free-solitaire-games-without-ads/ Tue, 06 Feb 2024 06:15:43 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123869 Solitaire is a card game that was released to the public in 1990. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular computer games in the world. Not only is the game addictive, it is quite accessible since it is usually incorporated into Windows operating systems. Due to its entertainment value, many developers ...

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Solitaire is a card game that was released to the public in 1990. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular computer games in the world.

Not only is the game addictive, it is quite accessible since it is usually incorporated into Windows operating systems.

Due to its entertainment value, many developers have reproduced the game for different platforms including mobile devices. However, in most cases, the free version features plenty of adverts that may cause distraction and compromise the overall experience.

Luckily, there are a few developers who have come up with free versions of the game that do not incorporate adverts. I have compiled a list of the best free Solitaire games without ads so you won’t have to waste time searching.

Read on.

Also Read: Best Couple Games On Xbox

Best Free Solitaire Games Without Ads

1. Classic Solitaire Klondike

Classic Solitaire Klondike stands out from many alternatives because of its minimalist approach to design. It features a clean and intuitive interface that makes it easy for beginners and advanced players to get acquainted with all the features and functions.

You can set it to portrait or album orientation depending on the device you are playing on and personal preference. It has two gaming modes including Random Decks which allow you to enjoy some level of unpredictability, and the 3 Cards Per Draw alternative.

The game has different difficulty levels making it possible for new players to learn the ropes and quickly sharpen their skills as they move up. The advanced levels of the game are quite challenging meaning even experts will have to pay close attention to win.

While you are free to enjoy the game online, you can also keep the fun going by launching the game offline. The interface graphics are quite vivid and the animations work seamlessly making for an overall pleasant experience.

The game also incorporates sounds to add to the overall quality of entertainment you get. The game is available to download and start playing completely free of charge.

You also don’t have to worry about adverts popping up and causing distractions.

Download Classic Solitaire Klondike from Google Play and the App Store.

Also Read: Best Single Player Switch Games

2. Solitaire Palace

Solitaire Palace is another exciting card game you can turn to when you want to exercise your brain and enjoy some entertainment. It has a fairly simple interface so you’ll have an easy time navigating through the different sections.

It has a section with the rules for playing so you can read through them before you start. Of course, there is also an option for you to play with your own rules.

One of the things that make it a fun game is that it brings together a community of card game fans from across the globe. This means you get the opportunity to go against some of the best players from around the world.

There is always a tournament going on so you can join and start making your way up the leaderboard. While playing, you are free to interact with the other players.

Another notable thing about this game is that it does not require you to register. All you have to do is create a username to get started.

You get the option to play with original Solitaire cards or house cards depending on your preference. In case you just want to play at your own pace, you can always opt for the single-player mode allowing you to enjoy the game without worrying about making mistakes.

That is because there is an undo button making it possible for you to retrace your steps and improve your gaming proficiency.

Solitaire Palace has no ads and is available for download on Google Play and the App Store.

Also Read: Online Games To Play When Bored

3. Solitaire by NX Gentech

Solitaire by NX Gentech has no ads and utilizes the Classic rules so you can start enjoying the gameplay right away. You can either move cards by dragging and dropping them or simply tapping on them depending on what you find convenient.

You can customize settings to give you a personalized gaming experience. This means you can switch from one set of cards to another, adjust the contrast and brightness of the cards, and even increase or reduce their sizes.

If you are just getting started with this card game, you can activate the hint feature to provide assistance when you are playing. There is also an unlimited undo option so you can retract your moves and make better ones.

Whether you lose or win a game, you are free to restart it as this can help you master some of the best moves. Like most modern Solitaire games, you can set this one to portrait or landscape mode.

You also get to track the history of scores, time, and amount of moves you make in each game.

You can download and install the game from Google Play or the App Store.

Also Read: Best Google Games To Play When Bored

4. Solitaire Social

Solitaire Social is another ad-free option you can turn to when you want something to keep you entertained. It differs slightly from the options on this list because it incorporates some elements of fantasy.

For instance, if you are faced with a challenging situation during gameplay, you can always turn to your magic reserve to get things moving again. It also has a weekly Magic competition you can participate in for a chance to win prizes.

Solitaire Social can be a good option for anyone who wants to go up against other players from around the world. You get to chat with different people while also moving up the leaderboard depending on how proficient you are at the games.

The game is available free of charge and can be played online in your favorite web browser. You can also download the mobile version from the App Store.

Also ReadDeceit Game Review

5. No Ads Solitaire

No Ads Solitaire is a simple yet enjoyable game to add to your collection. It features a user-friendly layout so you can get a glimpse of everything without clicking away from the homepage.

It allows you to customize a variety of aspects including the color theme and the type of cards you use. You can even switch to dark mode to enhance visibility in poorly lit conditions.

It incorporates a right-handed mode so you can move cards over the right side with exceptional ease. The game lets you track your scores and the number of moves you make in every session.

You can share your gaming results with friends and family members with a simple click of the button. They can also do the same so you can know who among you is the best.

The game is available completely free of charge and does not feature popups or any other types of ads. That means you can enjoy your gaming sessions without having to skip through any annoying commercials.

Download the game directly from the App Store.

Also ReadBest 2-Player Story Games On PS4

6. Play Solitaire

Play Solitaire is a web-based game available for just about anyone. Whether you are accessing the internet through a mobile device or a computer, you can be sure to have an enjoyable experience.

One of the best things about the game is that it does not require you to sign up. Simply visit the homepage and start playing. You do not even have to worry about creating a username.

The game has a full-screen design making it easy for you to get a good view of everything. Navigate to Settings to change the background color and the types of cards you wish to use.

You also get to either activate or deactivate the Hint feature depending on your level of proficiency. The game can also display your stats so you always know if you are improving when it comes to proficiency.

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7. Solitr

Solitr is another card game designed to work in every modern web browser. Like Play Solitaire, this card game does not require you to sign up or create a user name.

Instead, all you have to do is visit the homepage and start playing. The game allows you to choose whether you want to turn one or three cards at a time.

It also has a score display feature you can turn on in case you want to keep an eye on your performance in real-time. Otherwise, you can turn it off and wait until the end of the game to know what you have scored.

It has a Help section you can visit to learn about the rules you should follow. The section also includes instructions on how to play the game in case you are a beginner.

The game has a minimalist interface and does not include any form of ads which is why it also works smoothly on slow internet connections.

Also ReadBest 2-Player Gaming Apps To Play On Separate Mobiles

8. Solitaire City

Solitaire City is an enjoyable card game that will keep you captivated for hours. It offers over 70 variations of the game so you can switch from one to another whenever you feel like it.

Some of the variations you will get include Klondike, Spider One, FreeCell, TriPeaks, Scorpion One, Poker Squares, Pyramid, and Golf, among others. Another thing to keep in mind is that the game is not only ad-free but does not have any in-purchase setups.

It features high-quality graphics so you’ll get an immersive experience regardless of the device you are using. The game incorporates an interactive training feature making it possible for beginners to learn the ropes quickly.

You can activate or deactivate the Hint feature depending on your level of proficiency. It also includes a timed scoring system so you can train yourself to get high scores within a short period of time.

Another unique feature of the game is that it connects seamlessly with iTunes so you can enjoy your favorite music tracks while playing. What’s more, it has fun sound effects and even makes it possible for you to create your sound effects from scratch.

You can download and install the game directly from Google Play and the App Store.

Also Read: Counter Strike Global Offensive Review

Wrapping Up

Solitaire is a popular game that not only helps you exercise your brain but also keeps you entertained. However, finding a free version of the game is not always easy, which is why the above-detailed options can come in handy.

Options such as Classic Solitaire Klondike and No Ads Solitaire make it possible for you to play both online and offline. Options such as Solitaire Palace and Solitaire Social are ideal options for you to connect with other fans from around the world.

Regardless of the game you pick from the list, you can be sure to enjoy uninterrupted entertainment whenever you get down to playing.

The post 8 Best Free Solitaire Games Without Ads appeared first on Rigorous Themes.

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ASolver Review https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/asolver-review/ Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:01:17 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123654 Are you stuck with a particularly challenging Rubik’s Cube? Do you want to learn how to solve complicated Rubik’s cubes or improve your cube solving skills? ASolver is an app that will show you, step-by-step, how to solve Rubik’s Cubes, from simple cubes to complex ones. This review will delve into ASolver, what it can ...

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Are you stuck with a particularly challenging Rubik’s Cube? Do you want to learn how to solve complicated Rubik’s cubes or improve your cube solving skills?

ASolver is an app that will show you, step-by-step, how to solve Rubik’s Cubes, from simple cubes to complex ones.

This review will delve into ASolver, what it can do, and whether it’s worth using to help you solve Rubik’s Cubes. Let’s get into it!

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Verdict

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✰✰

ASolver is an app that shows you how to solve Rubik’s Cubes. While it’s great if you are stuck with a particular Rubik’s Cube, both the Android and iOS apps have issues, such as bugs.

Pros

  • You can learn how to solve Rubik’s Cubes for free.
  • The iOS app supports a wide range of Rubik’s Cube types.
  • Both apps are free to use.
  • Using the Android app, you can time yourself and create a personal leaderboard. You can also learn how long it takes you to solve Rubik’s Cubes, on average.
  • You can play a digital Rubik’s Cube online using the app.

Cons

  • The ads can be annoying, especially if you are in a hurry and rushing to solve a Rubik’s Cube as quickly as possible.
  • The iOS app only gives you a limited number of solutions for free. It pushes you to upgrade if you want unlimited access.
  • Using your camera to capture your Rubik’s Cube can be a hit-and-miss. You might get incorrect colors as a result, requiring manual corrections.
  • The Android app does not support a wide range of models like the iOS app.

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What Is ASolver?

ASolver is an app that shows you how to solve complex Rubik’s Cubes. You can snap a picture of your Rubik’s Cube, and it will scan the picture to determine which colored-squares are where.

The app will then use an algorithm to determine the best way to solve the Rubik’s Cube. It will show you the step-by-step solution generated by the algorithm, allowing you to solve Rubik’s Cubes with minimal effort.

The app is free to use. There is an ASolver app on Android and a different ASolver app on iOS.

It is unclear whether they are from the same developer. Since the interface and features vary between the two apps, I will be reviewing them separately.

Let’s first review the Android version, then we’ll move on to the iOS version.

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ASolver Android App Review

Inputting Your Rubik’s Cube Data

The ASolver Android app can generate your Rubik’s Cube data automatically, but you can also input the data manually.

If you choose the automatic method, take a picture of each side with your camera. Then, verify that the scanned results are correct before proceeding to the solution.

Alternatively, if you want to input the details manually, you can do so. You will be shown a cube and will be able to change its colors to match those on your physical Rubik’s Cube.

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Types of Cubes

The ASolver Android app helps you solve 3x3x3 classic Rubik’s Cube puzzles. If you have a non-traditional Rubik’s Cube you want to solve, it might not be the right app for you.

Results

Once you click on the Solve button, the app will tell you how many steps you need to solve the Rubik’s Cube.

The steps will be shown as a sort of slideshow. You can move from one step to the next or go back using the arrow buttons.

Alternatively, you can play all the steps automatically. Using the pause button, you can pause the playback.

If you scroll down, you will also see a visualization of each step.

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Tutorials and Lessons

The ASolver Android app also contains a tutorial that teaches you how to solve Rubik’s Cubes. Click on the Learn tab to access it.

If you are a complete beginner, it’s a great introduction to solving Rubik’s Cubes. However, even if you are an experienced player, you might learn a thing or two.

The tutorial includes step-by-step explanations in an easy-to-understand format, complete with explainer images. There is also a video walkthrough.

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 Time Yourself and Track Your Stats

A feature I really liked was the built-in stopwatch. It allows you to track how long it takes you to solve Rubik’s Cubes.

It will generate a personal leaderboard with logs of each time you solved the Rubik’s Cube and how long it took you on each turn. You will also get statistics such as the fastest you were able to solve a cube, your worst try, and the average length of time it took you to solve Rubik’s Cubes.

Play Online

The online Rubik’s Cube simulator is quite fun. Under the Play tab of the app, there is a digital Rubik’s Cube that you can solve online if you don’t have a physical Rubik’s Cube with you.

Start by clicking on Scramble to randomly scramble the cube. You can then roll different parts of the cube to solve it.

Also Read: Best Solitaire Games Without Ads

What I Liked About the Android App

Overall, the app does a good job of solving 3x3x3 Rubik’s Cubes. I liked how you can both input information manually and take pictures of your Rubik’s Cube.

I thought the idea of a Rubik’s Cube simulator to play with and solve online was brilliant. Unfortunately, I found the app a bit laggy overall, especially the online Rubik’s Cube.

In particular, while rolling components of the digital cube vertically posed no challenge, I found it difficult when trying to roll components of the cube horizontally. I did not experience the same issue when using the web version of the app in my browser, though.

What I Didn’t Like About the Android App

I already mentioned how the app is a bit buggy and laggy. However, there are other areas that could use some improvement.

For example, while the stopwatch idea is great, I didn’t see any way to create an account and save my progress. When I exited and reopened the app, it lost all the logs it saved from the previous session, so it’s only good for one session.

Finally, it is only really helpful for 3x3x3 cubes and not for other styles.

Also Read: Best Wordle Alternatives

ASolver iOS App Review

The app called ASolver on the iOS App Store is different, but it shares the same underlying idea.

Types of Cubes

Unlike the Android app, the ASolver iOS app supports a wide range of Rubik’s Cube types. They include 2x2x2, 3x3x3, 4x4x4, 5x5x5, 6x6x6, and even interesting variations like 2x2x3 and 2x3x3.

It also supports Megaminx, Skewb, and Pyraminx. So, as you can see, there is a wide range of cubes you can solve with the iOS app.

The camera will automatically detect which type of Rubik’s Cube you are trying to solve when snapping a picture of the cube.

Of course, the more complex the cube is, the longer it will take to solve. For example, while the 4x4x4 usually takes around 50 moves to solve, the 6x6x6 takes around 140 moves.

Also Read: Wordle vs Quordle

Inputting Information

To input information, take a picture of the Rubik’s Cube. The camera will automatically detect which colored squares are where.

It will show you a model of the results. Verify that they are correct, or click on the Correct button to make corrections if they are not.

Results

Results are shown as a series of steps, each with a visualization of the cube. For each step, you will see a short animation demonstrating how to perform the step.

Also Read: Best Heardle Alternatives

What I Liked About the iOS App

The app is easy to use, with a clean interface. It supports a wide range of Rubik’s Cube types.

It is very accurate for some versions, such as the 3x3x3 model.

What I Didn’t Like About the iOS App

The app isn’t that great for categorizing colors. If the lighting is off (it is a bit dark or there is a hint of glare) it is often wrong at determining the correct colors, which can be frustrating.

Also, while the app is free, it only gives you limited opportunities to use the app at no cost. For example, you might only be able to use a model a limited number of times, or you may only be able to access a few solutions an hour for free.

One more thing: I mentioned that it’s great for solving certain models. For other models, though, it’s not as accurate.

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Conclusion

It’s best to use ASolver as a tool to improve.

Don’t rely on it. If you don’t bother using your brain, you will never get better at solving Rubik’s Cubes.

Still, if you’re just starting out but constantly getting stumped, the ASolver app can help ease your frustrations and serve as a good introduction point to the world of Rubik’s Cube puzzles.

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Deceit Game Review https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/deceit-game-review/ Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:13:00 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123583 When the chips are down, can you trust anyone? How far are you willing to go to conceal the truth? Whom will you betray to save your skin? In a sense, these are the questions that Deceit aims to answer by throwing you into a world that’s rife with uncertainty, desperation, and endless twists and ...

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When the chips are down, can you trust anyone?

How far are you willing to go to conceal the truth? Whom will you betray to save your skin?

In a sense, these are the questions that Deceit aims to answer by throwing you into a world that’s rife with uncertainty, desperation, and endless twists and turns.

In this Deceit game review, we’ll walk you through everything there is to know about the FPS-style dark horror game from its premise to the core features and visual design.

By the end, you’ll be equipped to decide if Deceit is worth your time or just another title with lots of flair and no substance.

Also Read: Dota 2 Review

Verdict

Out Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There are many multiplayer games based on the kill-or-be-killed format but few execute it as brilliantly as Deceit does. The fusion of thinly-veiled hostility, suspicion-filled collaboration, underhanded deception, and a scramble for survival makes it exciting to play.

Pros

  • It’s free to play.
  • It requires a lot of communication and collaboration between players.
  • The game offers a lot of intrigue and allows you to bring your own styles and strategies to the action.

Cons

  • Language barriers can hinder gameplay when facing randomly selected players from different corners of the globe.
  • You need a powerful laptop to play the game at a decent framerate.

What is the Deceit Game about?

Deceit is a multiplayer survival-themed first-person shooter horror game published by World Makers and released in March 2017.

It requires a combination of skill, collaboration, and cunning to stay alive and fulfill your mission as dictated by your role in the game.

Deceit is a story-driven game with a simple premise: six people wake up to discover that they have been kidnapped and trapped in an asylum by a mysterious doctor known as the Game Master.

To find ways to escape, you and the other five players must work together to solve the Game Master’s challenges and make it through the three zones without dying.

The catch is that two of the players have been infected with a dangerous virus that causes them to mutate into bloodthirsty monsters who will try to kill the four innocents to keep them from escaping.

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That’s not all though. You see, no one knows who the infected players are except the players themselves. So everyone is suspicious of everyone else and looking for signs that might tell them which of their fellow survivors is the enemy amongst them.

If you’re infected you have to deceive, lie, and betray other players to hide your secret. You have to slow down the innocents and shift the suspicion to them so they get killed instead of you.

In between all of this, you’ll be sneaking around to find and discreetly drink from the blood bags scattered around the building to help you gain power and complete your transition when the lights die out,

As an innocent, you’re not off the hook because you’re the only one who knows for sure that you’re innocent.

So, you’ll have to do your best to not draw extra attention or suspicion to yourself and try to convince others that you’ve not been infected or you’ll be dead.

Explore: Brawlhalla Review

This is in addition to the main quest where you have to gather as many resources to protect and defend yourself before the asylum goes dark and the infected are free to transform into unstoppable beasts.

All of this creates the perfect breeding ground for tensions and conflicts which help make Deceit a very captivating and fulfilling game.

Are you going to form alliances and risk betrayal or fight against the other players to secure ownership of items that can help you survive the potential terror attack?

Deceit is just deeply satisfying on so many levels. You get the thrill of fast-paced combat with the mental stimulation of strategic gameplay, and the terrifying uncertainty that accompanies elaborate mind games,

As if that’s not enough, Deceit is free to play. However, you can choose to purchase optional content and special customization features to show support for the developers.

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Gameplay and features

What makes Deceit brilliant is that there is no way to tell the good guys from the bad guys unless they transform or you catch them drinking blood.

You know somebody is coming for you, you just don’t know who or when, but you have to keep going regardless.

Unlike most other action games where skill is the most valuable currency, success in Deceit is based on your ability to work well with others and your powers of manipulation more than anything else.

The Deceit game has three levels and each has two phases: light and darkness. When the lights are on, players can see each other and move about freely to gather resources or sabotage others.

Anyone who is suspected of being infected can be shot by another player but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re out of the game.

The shooter has to convince two other players that they’ve been infected so they can vote them out by shooting them too.

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If they don’t get voted out, they will respawn and rejoin the game, which as you can imagine, takes the awkwardness and tension to a whole new level.

Unfortunately for the innocents, they can’t go about killing anyone they suspect of being infected because if they wipe off the innocents, the game automatically ends. The infected get to win without transforming.

Similarly, the innocents can win early on if they can correctly guess who the infected players are and take them out before the lights are turned off.

Once the lights go out, the infected will have more freedom to roam about, double their powers, or transform and go on a killing spree to take as many innocents as possible. No players can be voted out during the blackout phase.

What I love about Deceit’s gameplay is that there are so many variables that you never know how your choices will impact the outcome.

This gives the game an amazing replay value because you’ll be faced with a unique set of motivations, decisions, and shadiness in every game.

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As you’d expect, there are many features in Deceit that you can leverage to increase your chances of winning.

You can collect weapons like shotguns and lethal injections which can be used to seriously harm or effectively kill other players depending on whether they’re in human or beast form.

Deceit also has a bunch of reconnaissance and defensive tools that will come in handy as you make your way through the asylum. They include:

  • Camera – The flash from this helps to slow down terrors during blackouts because light hurts them.
  • Traps – Briefly incapacitates any monster that walks over it.
  • Antidote – Used to revive a player that’s been downed by a terror.
  • Torch – This allows you to keep terrors stunned for longer.
  • Tracker – This lets you track another player through the walls for up to a minute, day and night.
  • Body armor – Helps increase your health and strength
  • Inspection kit – You can use this to scan other players to determine whether they are infected or not.

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Additionally, the Deceit game gives users five different maps or locations to choose from.

You can set the game in an Asylum, Forest, Manor, Lumberyard, or the Arctic, so you’re free to switch things up from game to game and enjoy the different challenges that each map has to offer.

Regardless of where you choose to spawn or whether you’re playing with strangers or your very best friends, your trust and strengths will be tested. You’ll probably even succumb to paranoia and go from working together to actively hindering each other.

It is this constant state of anxiety, alertness, and distrust that makes Deceit an unforgettable gaming experience.

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Controls and communications

The control framework for Deceit is on par with expectations for an FPS game. It feels logical and natural so it’s easy for you to perform different actions like shooting at players, walking around, or grabbing objects.

To communicate with other players, you can text, use voice chats if you have a microphone, or use character voice commands.

Unfortunately, if you’re playing the game solo with random players across the world, communication can be frustrating because of language barriers.

You have little chance of convincing a Chinese or Russian player, for example, that you’re on their side if neither of you understands what the other is saying.

What this means is that you end up missing out on the tense combat scenes, spontaneous interrogations, alliance formations, and other human interactions that add color and drama to the game.

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Graphics and visuals

In terms of appearance, Deceit’s visuals don’t feel very new or extraordinary. If you’ve seen The Thing or any of the movies in the Saw franchise, the setting will probably feel familiar but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

The graphics are good enough to immerse you in the world it’s building even if the characters aren’t hyper-realistic.

The environment and atmosphere effectively evoke a sense of horror and apprehension that inspires chaos and messes with players’ minds, pushing them to hurt and kill each other.

If you’re a huge fan of blood and gore, you’ll not get much satisfaction from Deceit in this area because the violent imagery isn’t very graphic. However, the voice acting and audio design compensate for this and will likely make you squirm in your seat.

Also, some spaces in the maps are useless because nothing happens there, but the refined pacing and timing of the different levels and phases easily make up for this.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Story Games On PS4

Wrapping It Up

Deceit may not be perfect but it comes close. There’s a lot to love about the game, but best of all is how much it puts your detective skills and capacity for manipulation and betrayal to the test.

The storyline on its own is fresh and engaging and when you combine that with the real-life tensions that accompany the gameplay, the results are explosive, unforgettable, and often hard to live down.

It’s a fun and creative game that you and your friends will surely get a kick out of, and it will make you question how well you really know each other again and again.

Deceit Competition

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Dota 2 Review https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/dota-2-review/ Mon, 29 Jan 2024 10:04:11 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123521 Dota 2 is a MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game available for free. Released in 2013, it is a sequel to DotA (Defense of the Ancients). In this review, I will be going over the gameplay mechanics of Dota 2. I will tell you what I liked about the game and what I didn’t. If ...

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Dota 2 is a MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game available for free. Released in 2013, it is a sequel to DotA (Defense of the Ancients).

In this review, I will be going over the gameplay mechanics of Dota 2. I will tell you what I liked about the game and what I didn’t.

If you’re wondering whether Dota 2 is the right MOBA game for you, continue reading!

Check Out: Deceit Game Review

Verdict

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩

Dota 2 is a free to play multiplayer online battle arena game. It offers endless opportunities for improvement, lots of competitive options, and over 120 free heroes.

Pros

  • It has insane depth and an endless skill ceiling.
  • All heroes are free to play.
  • Any store purchases result in purely cosmetic upgrades.
  • There are lots of competitions to watch and participate in.
  • There are always new updates.
  • It allows community contributions.

Cons

  • There are highs and lows.
  • It has a long learning curve.
  • The community can be toxic at times.
  • It can feel like you can never master the game.

Dota 2 Review

1. Gameplay

Dota 2, as mentioned, is a MOBA game, which means that multiple players play online at the same time. It belongs to the RTS (Real Time Strategy) subgenre of strategy games, which means that players don’t take turns playing but rather all play at once.

Teams in Dota 2 consist of five players. The goal of the game is to fight over an “Ancient,” a large structure that towers in the enemy’s base.

Your team of five heroes, each controlled by a different player, will attempt to overtake the enemy’s Ancient. Since the enemy team will be attempting to take over your Ancient as well, you will have to defend it.

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To get to the Ancient, you will need to use the lanes. The battles on the lanes typically involve 1v1 or 2v2 play, depending on the lane.

The lanes are defended by towers, from which you can be shot on. You need to destroy these towers, but they are not the only obstacles you must overcome.

There are also barracks located in the enemy’s base. These barracks spawn creeps, and you have to destroy the barracks to prevent these creeps from spawning.

Creeps are NPCs (Non-Playable Characters) controlled by the computer game. Not all creeps are hostile to just one side, though.

Some creeps are hostile to both sides. These neutral creeps are spawned not from the barracks; instead, they live in camps in the jungle between the lanes.

The good news, though, is that if you don’t attack one of these neutral creeps, they won’t attack you. They only harm you if provoked, so if you stay out of their way, they won’t attack you.

That’s sometimes easier said than done, though, and not always a smart strategy. By killing creeps and farming the jungles, you can get more resources.

For example, when you kill a creep, you can get gold.

In addition, you should definitely attempt to capture Roshan, a powerful neutral creep who, when captured, offers rewards such as the ability to revive after death.

There is also a special fountain located at the spawn point which assists in healing and regeneration.

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2. Game Modes

There are many game modes in Dota 2, which helps keep things more exciting. For example, in All Pick, players can select any hero and even swap heroes with teammates; alternatively, a random hero can be selected in All Pick.

New Player Mode is ideal for new players. You can even leave a match in New Player Mode without penalties, as your character will continue to be played by the system.

There is a mode that lets you play against bots, and there is also a mode in which you can’t select a hero; rather, one is selected for you randomly.

For quick matches, choose Turbo Mode. If you want a competitive experience, go for Ranked All Pick, which is similar to All Pick but includes a ranking system.

In addition to modes created by the game developers, there are also custom modes. The good part about Dota 2 is that it allows players to create custom modes for the community.

In general, regardless of which mode you select, you can expect the game to last around 30–60 minutes. This can vary, though, as if an Ancient is captured by one of the teams, the match will be over.

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3. Heroes

There are over 120 heroes in Dota 2. Each hero has unique capabilities and strengths, but they can vary depending on the cycle of the game.

For example, Bristleback reduces damage coming from the rear and throws damaging quills.

Leshrac has a powerful aura and can split the earth under the feet of enemies, which stuns them for a while, giving you an advantage.

Starbreaker has a special hammer which she whirls around three times, dealing devastating damage. In addition, she smashes her hammer down into the ground, stunning opponents.

Choosing the right hero can help you win a match. Of course, to make things more fun, you can randomize the hero you will be assigned, depending on the game mode.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Horror Games On PS4

4. Competitions and eSports

One of the best things about Dota 2 is the competitive aspect to it. It has tournaments and allows for competitions on local area networks.

You can watch competitions in real time, including in virtual reality, and purchase tickets to watch tournament events. There is even a fantasy sports system.

There are elite, professional players who compete in some of the top Dota 2 tournaments. There are amateur leagues as well, and if you’re just a casual player, you can join one of the community leagues.

For example, The International is an annual tournament that is watched by many Dota 2 fans. Watching competitions gives you a chance to learn new things, improve your skills, and have a lot of fun.

The International is now incorporated into the Dota Major Championships.

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The Good: What I Liked About Dota 2

Let’s go over some of the best things about Dota 2.

Free to Play

Dota 2 is free to play. Unlike many other free to play games, though, all the heroes are free to play. You don’t have to pay to unlock them.

Of course, there are upgrades available for purchase; the developers have to monetize the game somehow. While all heroes are available under the free to play model at no cost, you can buy goods from the Dota Store.

These goods include skins, armors, and cosmetics. Note that these goods are cosmetic and will not affect gameplay.

The developers of Dota 2 wanted a system in which players can not get an advantage by paying for better weapons or armor. Instead, anything you get from the store is purely cosmetic.

Another great thing about Dota 2 is that it accepts community contributions. In other words, there are many cosmetics and goods created by the community and available for purchase in the store (not all submissions are accepted).

Another way Dota 2 monetizes the game is with Dota Plus. It’s very affordable and allows you to level up your heroes and unlock new tiers and badges.

The main advantage are the statistics and suggestions it gives you based on an analysis of the gameplay of millions of other players. You will get suggestions such as which items to select and which builds to create, helping you gain an advantage if you are new.

It also provides other perks, such as new chat wheel responses.

Also Read: Best Single Player Switch Games

Another monetization method is the Battle Pass, which is a seasonal competition in which you can progress, earn rewards, and enjoy special features like Guilds.

Skill Progression

Dota 2 relies heavily on skill, which is one of the good things about it. As already mentioned, you don’t have to pay to get better capabilities.

In addition, it has a very high skill ceiling. In other words, you can play the game for years and still improve.

Other games have a skill ceiling. After a certain point, you can feel like there’s no way to get better at the game, and it starts getting boring.

Besides, Dota 2 is always adding new updates, keeping things fresh.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Story Games On PS4

The Bad: What I Didn’t Like About Dota 2

There’s nothing bad I found about Dota 2. However, one disadvantage stems from an advantage: the endless skill ceiling.

It might seem like you can never master the game. You can play for years and feel like your effort has been spent for nothing.

It also means that there is quite a learning curve involved in the game.

Another thing that could be considered a disadvantage are the highs and lows of this game. You might feel like you are on a winning streak, winning matches easily. Suddenly, though, you have a horrible match in which you fail miserably.

Dota 2 can really be an emotional roller coaster!

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Conclusion

Dota 2 is a great game overall.

It’s fun, free, and offers endless progression opportunities. However, do take care of your mental health.

Highs and lows are common in this game, so don’t let yourself feel down if you suddenly go from an amazing match to a terrible one; it’s normal.

Dota 2 Competition

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Brawlhalla Review https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/brawlhalla-review/ Mon, 29 Jan 2024 08:25:33 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123485 Brawlhalla is a free-to-play fighting game. It’s available on most platforms, and for a game that doesn’t cost anything, it’s super engaging and high quality. Still, is it worth your time overall? This review will give you an inside look into what Brawlhalla is all about. You will learn the good and bad of the ...

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Brawlhalla is a free-to-play fighting game. It’s available on most platforms, and for a game that doesn’t cost anything, it’s super engaging and high quality.

Still, is it worth your time overall?

This review will give you an inside look into what Brawlhalla is all about. You will learn the good and bad of the game and whether it’s worth spending time on.

Let’s get into it.

Explore: Dota 2 Review

Our Verdict

Brawlhalla Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩

Bralwhalla is a free to play game that offers a wide range of modes and many characters. As a free game, it’s quite a lot of fun.

Pros

  • Available on a wide range of platforms
  • Free to play, including free Gold Coins earned through gameplay
  • Wide range of modes and legends
  • Crossover characters

Cons

  • Community of players can be toxic
  • Matchmaking in ranked competitive mode can sometimes be a hit and miss
  • Random software glitches may occur

Brawlhalla: Gameplay Review

Brawlhalla involves fighting. It supports both local play, with up to eight players, and online play.

You don’t need to pay anything. It’s free.

There are different modes in Brawlhalla. Generally, you will need to knock your opponent into one of the blast zones located outside the edges of the map.

Your goal is to knock your opponents into the blast zones while avoiding getting knocked there yourself. If you do get knocked there, you will get respawned on the stage, but you will lose a stock in the process.

Let’s get into more of the gameplay mechanics.

Check Out: Deceit Game Review

1. Modes

There are several modes in Brawlhalla, and they are too many to list here. Still, let’s go through a few of them, just to give you an idea of what is possible.

There is Morph, which allows you to make combinations of several weapons. It’s quite fun and a twist on the traditional weapon play system of many fighting games.

If you like throwing and dodging bombs, Dodgebomb is a fun game mode to try out on Brawlhalla.

Another twist on what traditional fighting games offer is Brawldown. It’s a literal brawl, using chairs and tables as weapons, in a wrestling-style ring where there are ropes that you can bounce off of.

If you want something very chaotic, you can try Free For All, which is utter chaos. Everyone tries to knock everyone else out, and while highly stressful, it is also quite fun.

For testing out new features coming to the game, you can try Experimental 1v1.

There is also Ranked, a competitive game mode in which you play against others. While you have a starting ELO rank of 1200, you can increase your ranking by winning.

All in all, Brawlhalla offers a decent range of game modes.

Check Out: Apex Legends Review

2. Legends

Brawlhalla has a wide range of legends – over 50 of them, in fact. However, not all of them are available for free; only a few are at any given time.

Let’s go over some of the Legends, just to give you examples of what you will be playing with.

There is Bodvar, who comes equipped with a battle hammer and a sword. Orion, the mysterious stranger, on the other hand, comes with a spear and a rocket lance.

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There is Cassidy, a former US Marshall, who became famous at the age of 15 for defeating outlaws. Now wanted for a reward of $5,000, Cassidy, who is equipped with blasters and a grapple hammer, is alleged to have committed crimes such as harboring a fugitive slave.

Finally, there are crossover skins, which are crossovers from other games.

These are great if you have played other games like Adventure Time or Assassin’s Creed and would like a taste of those games in Brawlhalla.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Horror Games On PS4

3. Monetization System

While Brawlhalla is free to play, it operates under a freemium model. That means that it monetizes the game by introducing in-game purchases and other upgrades.

You can purchase Mammoth Coins, named after Blue Mammoth Games (the developer) through in-game purchases. Then, you can use these Mammoth Coins to unlock skins for characters and weapons as well as various other upgrades.

You can even buy characters with Mammoth Coins. While you can’t usually get Mammoth Coins for free, there are sometimes giveaways in which you can get them for free.

Mammoth Coins are purchased with real currency but Gold Coins are not. Instead, they are earned by playing the game.

While not premium currency like the Mammoth Coins, you can use them to unlock legends, buy skins, and unlock other cosmetics.

So, there is a chance to get upgrades even without spending money.

There are some other ways to earn free rewards, such as by ranking high in competitive play.

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4. Battle Pass

To make things a bit more fun, Brawlhalla has introduced something called Battle Pass. Like the rest of the game, it offers both free and paid progression paths.

You can get Battle Pass for free and progress through the ranks, unlocking limited rewards such as some skins, simply by playing the game. Again, potential rewards are limited. They only include:

  • Four avatars
  • Three emoji skins
  • Two emotes
  • Fourteen color scheme rolls
  • One weapon skin, title, and sidekick

Also Read: Best Single Player Switch Games

However, the Gold Battle Pass option, which costs money, will give you access to all potential rewards.

For example, with the Gold track, you will see special mission trackers to track your Podium and Skin progressions.

You earn gems by finishing missions. The gems indicate how close you are to the next level of the Battle Pass progression.

In total, there are 85 tiers of progression in Battle Pass, so there’s quite a lot to aim for.

There are three kinds of missions on Battle Pass. Every day, you get a new mission, and you can have three of your daily missions queued up at once.

You also get weekly missions every Wednesday. If you complete at least four missions a week, you will unlock bonus gems as well.

Finally, there are 100 BPXP missions to complete.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Story Games On PS4

The Good: What I Liked About Brawlhalla

Let’s talk about the good parts of Brawlhalla.

Free and Cross Platform

In all honesty, if Brawlhalla were a paid game, I wouldn’t rank it so high compared to other paid games.

However, as a free game, it excels. While there are, of course, premium upgrades, you can play the game entirely for free without paying and still enjoy it.

In addition, it is cross platform. You can play it on mobile (both Android and iOS), PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.

Both local and online gameplay options are available, as mentioned.

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Lots of Modes, Characters, and Progression Opportunities

In addition, there are a lot of modes and progression opportunities. Not everyone will like every mode, but there will usually be a few that appeal to you, regardless of your personal gaming style.

There is also a very wide range of legends, and while only some of them are available for free at any given time, you can unlock others through earning Gold Coins just by playing the game.

Also, the crossover characters make the game even more exciting.

Battle Pass is awesome, and it changes every season. That keeps things more interesting, and I also appreciated that I could join and progress in Battle Pass for free, despite it being limited.

Check Out: Best Games Like Krunker

The Bad: What I Didn’t Like About Brawlhalla

Brawlhalla has some cons.

First of all, the community on Brawlhalla can be quite toxic sometimes.

You will find players who taunt you – in fact, there are taunts built into the system. You can send taunts to other players if you want to make fun of them while you are winning.

One of the worst decisions the developers made, in my opinion, is removing the chat feature. Now, you can communicate primarily by sending taunts.

It just makes the community more toxic.

Another thing I did not like was that in competitive play, you often go up against highly skilled opponents who have been playing much longer than you.

That can be difficult, because it makes it very challenging to win, and the fact that you can receive taunts in the process can make the entire experience even worse.

Yes, there is an ELO rating. Theoretically, it should prevent such cases, but realistically, it doesn’t, because ranking scores don’t always correlate over different game modes.

There is also the toxicity in the gameplay, as I mentioned. Some people will kill themselves to lower their score, despite having a better skill level, just so they can go against lower skilled people, destroy them, and feel good about themselves.

Also ReadGames Like Escape From Tarkov

Conclusion

I recommend Brawlhalla if you are looking for a free to play game. For me, Ranked is the best, but be aware that you can sometimes get matched against higher skilled players.

Don’t let the ELO scores fool you, and don’t let losses in Ranked get you down.

Focus on improving your skills and learning different combos.

Brawlhalla Competition

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15 Best 2 Player Story Games On PS4 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/best-two-player-story-games-on-ps4/ Thu, 25 Jan 2024 10:30:06 +0000 https://rigorousthemes.com/blog/?p=123420 Gaming is one of the most fulfilling ways to pass the time when you just want to have fun. It’s even better when you have someone to share the experience with whether you’re running a co-op campaign or battling against each other Luckily PlayStation has tons of great games that you can play on the ...

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Gaming is one of the most fulfilling ways to pass the time when you just want to have fun.

It’s even better when you have someone to share the experience with whether you’re running a co-op campaign or battling against each other

Luckily PlayStation has tons of great games that you can play on the couch with a fellow gamer or over the internet with friends so you don’t have to keep replaying the same titles over and over.

If you’re on the hunt for the best 2 player story games on PS4, we’ve done the excavation for you and handpicked the most interesting titles.

Our selection covers a variety of genres from simulations to puzzles, fantasy, first and third-person shooters, and more.

These multiplayer games are guaranteed to make you and your buddy emotional, provoke laughter, and even have you screaming out of frustration.

Let’s check them out.

Best 2 Player Story Games on PS4

1. Diablo IV

The latest installment of Blizzard Entertainment’s epic action RPG series, Diablo 1V brings you lots of demons to slay, loot to share, and legendary adventure everywhere you turn.

Diablo IV throws you into Sanctuary, a world that’s been corrupted by the devilish influence of Lillith, daughter of Mephisto, also known as the Lord of Hatred.

It’s up to you and your fellow explorers to take down Lillith and save Sanctuary from destruction. To do this, you must embark on daring quests, battle powerful bosses, liberate towns, trade resources, and join forces with other players to stop hell from breaking loose.

You can dream up a ton of builds and choose from 5 classes to create the perfect gaming campaign that will challenge you and your buddy.

Diablo IV supports local and online multiplayer so you can sit next to your friend and play side by side or team up with up to three friends virtually and have a great time demolishing evil dungeons together.

Also Read: Deceit Game Review

2. Dying Light 2

It’s easy to love Dying Light 2 because it gives you an immersive world to lose yourself in. It combines action and adventure with a compelling storyline that will leave you satisfied and wanting more.

As members of The City, the last human settlements in existence, you and your friends get to use combat skills, agility, and creativity to stay alive in a post-apocalyptic world where conflict and hostility reign supreme.

With the fate of The City in your hands, you must make sense of your broken memories and unravel the truth about who you are and what really happened to have a chance at survival.

In the meantime, you have to partner with unlikely allies to defeat the enemies and fight like hell to stay human, or all hope is lost.

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3. Outward

Grab your consoles and explore the immersive world of Aurai in this captivating survival game. Outward is designed for seasoned gamers looking for a challenge.

Unlike most story-driven games, you don’t get to control any special characters in Outward. You get to play as an ordinary person who has inherited a huge debt that you have to pay off somehow.

You must brave harsh environmental conditions, journey through uncivilized territories, and avoid dying of illness, thirst, or starvation to complete your mission.

To survive in the dangerous land of Aurai, you must use all the cunning and wits you have to stay out of harm’s way and defeat the opposition in combat.

As you overcome challenges, you’ll be rewarded with landmarks named after you, more powerful weapons, bigger treasures, and more.

Also Read: Brawlhalla Review

4. Overcooked

The premise of Overcooked is simple: you and your friends or family are in charge of running a virtual restaurant and you have to do everything in your power to ensure delicious meals get served to patrons on time.

Overcooked throws lots of silly and interesting scenarios your way to ramp up the excitement and keep the kitchen staff on their toes.

Imagine trying to chop tomatoes in the middle of a river to feed a spaghetti-hungry monster before time runs out and it decides to destroy the world instead.

The stakes are always high but if players can work together and listen to instructions, they just might manage to keep all their patrons satisfied.

You and your companion will find yourself laughing and yelling orders and cooking instructions at the top of your voice as you try to keep up with the rapidly changing menu and environmental conditions.

Also Read: Apex Legends Review

5. A Way Out

A Way Out is one of the best 2 player story games on PS4 today. It casts you and another player in the role of Vincent and Leo, two convicted felons who are attempting to break out of prison.

To succeed, you must outsmart prison guards by creating distractions, fight other prisoners who try to thwart your plans and beat high-level security systems designed to keep you in.

A Way Out’s visual atmosphere feels very cinematic and the storyline is character-driven and packed with unpredictability and emotional intensity.

Although Leo and Vincent are working together to find a way out, they’re two different people with their own motivations and reasons to not entirely trust each other.

Will they make it? Grab your pads, invite a friend to play, and find out.

6. The Forest

If you love action-packed survival games with great pacing, you will have an amazing time playing The Forest. The game can be played in single-player mode or invite a friend or three to join the adventure.

The Forest is centered around Eric Leblanc and his quest to find his way home after crashes in a heavily forested terrain that holds deadly and terrifying secrets. Spoiler alert: it’s a clan of bloodthirsty cannibalistic mutants.

While it’s reasonably safe to travel the forest during the daytime, you have to make camp and build yourself a strong fortress out of the materials lying around before the night arrives.

When playing with a companion, you will have to put your trust in each other, combine wits and resources, and survive the evil lurking in the darkness of the forest.

Be prepared to hack, slice, and bomb your way through the landscape to find food and shelter or defend your group against the enemy.

Also Read: ASolver Review

7. It Takes Two

Developed by Hazelight Studios under the direction of Josef Fares, the brilliant minds behind A Way Out and Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, It Takes Two is a thrilling two-player action-adventure game that will have you on the edge of your seat.

The game follows a married couple, Cody and May, who are thinking about filing for divorce when their daughter’s tears cause them to shrink down and become dolls.

Their only hope of returning to their real bodies requires them to put aside their differences and learn to see each other in a new light.

It Takes Two weaves a beautiful, heartwarming story that unfolds as both players team up to solve puzzles and acquire complementary powers and abilities.

As Cody and May learn new things about themselves and each other, you may probably relate strongly to the characters. And long after the game ends, you will still be thinking about its delightful plot.

Like A Way Out, you only need one copy of the game to play It Takes Two with a friend online.

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8. Resident Evil 5

In this legendary horror survival horror game, you and your partner get to control the two main characters Chris Redfield and Sheva.

Resident Evil 5 unfolds somewhere in Africa in the middle of a pandemic caused by a virus and your characters must venture into deadly lands to find the source and destroy the virus before it’s too late.

Resident Evil 5 has plenty of remarkable combat scenes to keep your adrenaline pumping but it also requires a lot of tactical planning.

Expect to spend some time managing your inventory and devising new strategies to defeat the bosses that come your way.

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9. Baldur’s Gate 3

With support for couch co-op and online multiplayer, you can have a wild time playing Baldur’s Gate 3 with one or more friends.

The fantasy roleplaying game blends the trademark intricate narrative of Dungeons and Dragons with a striking set design, action-packed combat, and rich characters.

It thrusts you into Faerun, aka the Forgotten Realm, a land besieged and invaded by Mind Flayers, leaving you to choose between fighting against the oppressive and corrupting powers or letting them take control of you.

Baldur’s Gate 3 allows players to vote on dialogue and pull resources, tactics, and skills as they romance, fight, and loot their way through the campaign.

Every time you roll the dice, you influence the outcome of the story to your advantage or bring the Forgotten Realm one step closer to ruin.

Also Read: Best Single Player Switch Games

10. As Dusk Falls

As Dusk Falls is another impressive two player story game that you can check out on PS4. The award-winning interactive crime drama focuses on family relationships and spans several decades.

It begins in Arizona in 1998 when a robbery goes wrong and dramatically changes the course of a family’s trajectory, for better or for worse.

Players get to choose what happens in the characters’ lives by voting on possible plotlines and each decision carries the weight of sacrifice and betrayal that impact the characters in profound ways.

You can replay As Dusk Falls over and over to discover how the different choices change the course of the family’s history and dramatically affect who survives and what each character becomes.

How far will you go to protect the people you love? Will anyone emerge unscathed? Which decisions will you come to regret? Take control of the characters and find out.

Check Out: Best 2-Player Roblox Games

11. Haven

Haven is a roleplaying adventure game about freedom, resistance, and love. The story follows lovers Yu and Kay who try to make a home for themselves on a forgotten planet called Source.

Having left everything familiar behind, the couple must rely on each other to survive in this unwelcoming new world and stave off the forces trying to force them apart.

Haven isn’t the most fast-paced game out there but there are enough battle scenes to keep alert and engaged.

The game’s progression depends on how well the characters can anticipate each other’s needs and work as a team to achieve their objectives.

You’ll get to bask in the bliss of everyday life as your characters fulfill mundane activities like crafting, cooking, and gathering resources to restore their ship.

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12. Divinity: Original Sin 2

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is set in the fictional world of Rivellon following the death of its ruler and protector Lucian.

An evil God-King has taken over the city with the help of his monstrous underlings, and your character, Godwoken is tasked with leading the revolution against him.

You can complete this campaign on your own or enlist the help of a partner to restore Divinity to Rivellon and free the town from the command of the wicked God-King.

Unlike most other two player games that require players to work together, Divinity: Original Sin 2 gives you the option of competing against each other rather than teaming up.

In Divinity: Original Sin 2, you’ll have to engage in plenty of battles to defeat your foes, learn to wield your powers, build your legend, and hopefully emerge as the new Divine.

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13. LittleBigPlanet 3

In LittleBigPlanet 3, Sackboy joins forces with friends to explore the colorful world of the planet Bunkum. Together, they face challenges and tribulations, get to know the inhabitants of the strange planet, and square up against the villain Newton.

LittleBigPlanet 3 is a hilarious and silly two player game on PS4 that promises to keep you engrossed and entertained from beginning to end.

The charming characters and vibrant gameplay ensure there are no dull moments and the puzzles put your creativity and intuition to test.

Get ready to drift through the skies, leap over walls, and use your intelligence to figure out the answers you need to make it to new levels and defeat Newton.

LittleBigPlanet 3 only offers local multiplayer features, so you won’t be able to play it remotely with friends. But I’d argue that this makes it twice as fun because you and your friend get to embark on the adventure side by side.

14. Don’t Starve Together

Come for the gothic cartoonish art style and stay for the gripping and quirky adventures that this game has to offer. Don’t Starve Together is the expanded multiplayer version of the popular survival game, Don’t Starve.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to survive in a wilderness where dark and strange creatures of all species are out to get you.

As you make your way through the inhospitable terrain, you have to defeat monsters in combat, stock up on resources so you don’t starve to death, and unravel the secrets hidden in the shadows.

Don’t Starve Together offers loads of fun with great replay value. No matter how many times you return to it, the gameplay will still feel fresh because it randomly generates new combat scenarios and game environments each time.

Also Read: Best 2-Player Gaming Apps To Play On Separate Mobiles

15. Unravel Two

Unravel Two is a puzzle-based platformer that features two Yarny characters who set out on exciting adventures under the control of you and a partner.

Since your characters are bound at the end of your strings, you have to join heads together to solve the puzzles you encounter.

The colorful, miniaturized world of the game is sure to keep you enthralled for many hours while creating a closer bond between you and your play partner. This makes Unravel Two the perfect game for couples and families.

As you tick off challenges in Unravel Two, you will unlock a bunch of interesting features like customization options for your Yarny character and blossoming surroundings.

Conclusion

There you have it; the best 2 player story games on PS4 that you can play with friends, acquaintances, and loved ones.

Whether you love action, horror, drama, or survival-themed games, you are sure to find a title in this list that strikes your fancy.

Some of these games require an online connection to activate multiplayer features while others can be played locally. Either way, there’s plenty of fun that’s promised.

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