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HunieCam Studios Throwback Review
I believe that out of the PC games stored within my Steam wishlist, and Steam library, this game seems like the first one that I’ve finished in less than 24 hours. Well not finish entirely since I’ve automatically failed the game and had to restart the entire save file, but still. I thought I should try it out and then once I’ve played it enough, I can review it. The game that I will be discussing is called HunieCam Studios.
HunieCam Studios is a spin-off of HuniePop; which is a series of games where you romance people through puzzles. In this game, however, you don’t romance the characters this time. Instead, you are in charge of running a “film studio”, and hiring different girls to be in said business. You’re in charge of paying the employees, making sure their fan count increases, improving their skills (such as “style” and “talent”), and more. Even though the game seems like a decent game to play, there have been a few negatives that I would like to mention.
The first one I want to bring up is the constant use of clicking. On one hand, I can understand that because this is a click-and-point game. On the other hand, however, it seems too necessary to get through certain parts of the game. For example, to speed up the studio usage for the other employees to use or to collect more cash for your business, you have to click it rapidly. Sure, you don’t have to click an area every single time and you can just hold it. However, it still felt like a chore doing that.
Another thing to mention is that it seems very difficult to maintain cash flow in the game. I’ve tried everything from upgrading the employees’ skill levels to earn more money to working them up consistently. I could never make more money for the business due to the automatic payroll that happens at midnight. Even if you DO pay the payroll on time, it still takes up more money when it automates every midnight.
In addition, I never seemed to understand how the business expenses kept increasing so much throughout each day. I understood that it would increase because of the promos for the business, as well as one or two employees changing three times as much, but it shouldn’t increase so much to where 90% of the business’s total investments are gone. No matter how many times I would get our business out of probably bankruptcy, the payroll and the other random expenses consistently prevent me from doing so. Furthermore, it would lead to an automatic game-over.
A third, and final situation, to add is the employees themselves. In HunieCam Studios, the stat for each character shows if they drink, if they smoke, or neither. The levels for both of those main traits would state either “Never”, “Sometimes”, “Frequently”, or “Addicted”. The first one takes up none of the supplies, the 2nd one takes up one to five items, the 3rd one takes up half of the items, and the 4th one just takes out almost all of the supplies. There were one or two characters in the game that had “Addicted” for both traits, and it would take up every single item before I even get a chance to replenish it completely.
And if I don’t replenish it right away and/or the supplies deplete to 5 or lower, the character becomes super stressed out. This would mean that once a character’s stress level is at 80% or higher, they will not continue to work. So I would have to put each character into the spa area, which is a good idea, but the problem with that is that it would take too long even if you do rapidly click it.
I felt like the only two good things about the game that I loved were the character designs (and each character’s sprite icon) and the background music. Which is a shame because I really hoping that HunieCam Studios would have some potential. Don’t get me wrong though, it is a good game to try out and experience yourself, of course; especially at a reasonable price. Maybe when I try out HuniePop and HuniePop 2: Double Date in the future, I will have a different experience compared to HunieCam Studios.
Game Rating: 6.5/10
HunieCam Studios (2016), PC
Developer & Publisher: HuniePot
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My Favorites From Summer Games Fest 2024
A few days to a week ago, I have recently published an article on my predictions for the Summer Games Fest 2024. And now that the event is finally at a close, I believe it is time for me to finally express my favorites from the week-long gaming showcase:
1) Monster Hunter Wilds, TBA 2025
First up is one of the most highly anticipated games of the Summer Games Fest: Monster Hunter Wilds! This game was first shown during The Game Awards 2023. Then there was a 2nd trailer presented during the recent PlayStation showcase just a few weeks ago; representing brand new characters and story. Lastly, another trailer was shown again during the Summer Games Fest event.
Of course, just like past Monster Hunter games, you get to create your character; as well as your Palico cat too. What surprised me, however, was that your protagonist might be fully voiced! Your character did have a voice in Monster Hunter Rise, for example, but not as much. In addition to that, there are also exciting new monsters to defeat. This time, however, you will have to defeat a horde of them; or perhaps just fight off the big boss in order to scare its followers away.
Monster Hunter Wilds does not have an official release date, sadly. However, there is a huge possibility that it will be released sometime in the year 2025! The game will be playable on PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, and PC/Steam.
2) Metaphor: ReFantazio, October 11th 2024
Another game that was presented in the Summer Games Fest was Metaphor: ReFantazio. The people behind the popular game franchise, Persona, is currently in development for this game!
Unlike the Persona series where you have to gain friendships & bond with multiple characters to power up your abilities (and Personas), Metaphor: ReFantazio has a slightly different approach. In this game, you use your influence skills (as well as other skills gained throughout the game) to influence and bond with your followers. The more followers you attain, the better – as your choices may negatively or positively affect who will be the next king of your kingdom.
Although gaining followers and making difficult choices sound unique, it will not be the only game mechanics you will encounter. You will also have to fight many enemies, and bosses, along the way. And you will not journey through that alone as your party members and “Archetypes” (which is a fancy term for Personas) will help you within each battle!
Metaphor: ReFantazio will be officially released on October 11th, 2024. It will be playable on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC/Steam.
3) Black Myth: Wukong, August 20th 2024
Next up is another game that most players are already aware of by now called Black Myth: Wukong. By surprise, it actually appeared for a short time early on during the Summer Games Fest!
Black Myth: Wukong is an RPG, hack-and-slash action game; with a battle mechanic almost similar to souls-like games, such as Lies of P and Elden Ring. Since the game is based on “Journey To The West”, a classic Chinese novel, Black Myth: Wukong looks to take place during the Ancient China era. In addition, the protagonist will meet various characters, enemies, and creatures based on Chinese mythology; and end up battling some of them, as well.
Black Myth: Wukong will be released on August 20th, 2024. It will be available to play on the PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, and on PC/Steam!
4) Rune Factory: Project Dragon, TBA
Although this game was not shown during the Summer Games Fest showcase, it was showcased during the Marvelous Showcase; alongside other games, like Farmagia and the upcoming Story of Seasons game! The game I am talking about is Rune Factory: Project Dragon.
Rune Factory: Project Dragon will be a spin-off to the Rune Factory series. In the game, players will choose between a male or female protagonist; each gaining a special ability of their own. Unlike previous Rune Factory games where portions of it were focused on farming, there will be little to no farming activities to do in the game. In fact, each of the protagonists will use these special abilities to fight off enemies and interact with the world around them!
There is no official release date for Rune Factory: Project Dragon yet, and there is no confirmation of platforms either. Let’s hope that the game will be available to play on the Nintendo Switch system and/or on Steam.
5) South of Midnight, TBA 2025
During the Xbox Games Showcase last week, one of the games presented piqued my interest. This game, in particular, is called South of Midnight. Just based on how it looks, it gives me a mixture of both Alice in Wonderland and Wizard of OZ/The Wiz vibes!
From what I know of, based on the gameplay trailer, you play as a female protagonist named Hazel. Throughout the start of Hazel’s journey, she will get pulled into a Gothic world with a more Louisiana atmosphere to it. In addition, as this happens, she must also search for her mother and rescue her so they can escape back home. In the process of doing that, however, she will encounter mythical creatures and enemies based on folklore – possibly from the South.
There is no official release date yet, but South of Midnight is planned for release sometime next year! It will be playable for Xbox Series X|S and PC/Steam, but I am not fully sure if it will also be available on PlayStation 5 or not.
6) Fable, TBA 2025
I have never played any game within the Fable series. However, I am very interested in the most anticipated Fable game; or Fable 4, as some people are calling it now.
Fable is an action, RPG game that takes place in the fantasy world known as Albion. Throughout the journey, players will play as the protagonist, and help them throughout their journey; which is filled with magic, interesting creatures, and a bit of humor on the side. As far as I am aware, there is not much that I know of about this upcoming game. I do believe, however, that it will be a fun game to try out!
Fable does not have an official release date yet, but it is planned for release sometime next year! It will be playable for Xbox Series X|S and Steam, but I am not fully aware if it will also be available on PlayStation 5.
7) Mixtape, TBA 2025
There was one other game, from the Xbox Games Showcase, that I found to be very interesting. And that game is called Mixtape.
Mixtape, from my perspective, sort of has that same aesthetic and vibe as the games from the Life is Strange franchise. It is an interactive story game focused on the friendship of three best friends. The three of them will pursue one last journey together before summer begins. In addition, they will also play music (based on actual performers) through their mixtape while embarking on memories that will last a long time!
Although it does not have an official release date yet, Mixtape is planned for release sometime next year! Mixtape will be available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC/Steam.
8) Life is Strange: Double Exposure, October 29th 2024
Another possible spin-off of the Life is Strange series, Life is Strange: Double Exposure is the next game that was presented during the Xbox Games Showcase!
This game will bring back the return of Max Caufield; the protagonist from the first game. This time, however, her powers from her previous adventure have developed into something brand new! From being able to travel through time to currently shifting into different timelines, Max will have to become accustomed to her new ability. Not only that, but she will also need it to solve the murder of her best friend, Sofia; and possibly prevent it.
Life is Strange: Double Exposure will be released on October 29th, 2024. It will be available to play on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC/Steam!
9) Dragon Age: The Veilguard, TBA Fall 2024
The final game that I want to mention is called Dragon Age: The Veilguard. In fact, this is one of the many upcoming games that I have been very excited about for a long while now!
Dragon Age: The Veilguard is an action, RPG game, and the 4th installment to the Dragon Age franchise. Just like the previous games within the series, players will create an “Inquisitor”; the main protagonist you control who will embark on a fantasy adventure, and make choices that will heavily impact your companion and the world around you. In addition, unlike the Dragon Age Inquisition, for example, all seven of your companions in this game can be romanceable regardless of gender. And when you create your protagonist, there will be a deep character customization; in addition to making choices early on and loading your past decisions from Dragon Age Inquisition too!
Now ever since the reveal trailer, there has been a lot of negative backlash due to the change in art style, game mechanics, and enemies. In my opinion as a Dragon Age fan, however, I see true potential in this game and I cannot wait to play it and experience it myself!
Dragon Age: The Veilguard does not have an official release date yet, but it is planned for release sometime this fall! It will be playable on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC/Steam.
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Demo Recommendation: To Pixelia
The first demo I played for this summer’s Steam Next Fest was Hollywood Animal; which I have previously discussed. I have played a second one; and this is the final one since I have only tried two demos for this event. This fun game to try out is called To Pixelia!
To Pixelia is a 2D-pixel, life sim where you create your own character and live out your life; like it’s The Sims. You first move into the city to start out your new, independent life. However, to fulfill this life – you have to work hard for it; sort of just like in the real world. What I am saying is – you have to live somewhere and be able to make enough money to support you financially.
Near the start of the demo, you get your first apartment unit; as long as you keep the place clean. You get to decorate it as you please by buying some wallpaper and flooring. In the beginning, you also get some free furniture from a local furniture store; based on a quest I had to complete. To keep living in the comforts of your rental home, however, you need to make some money to afford rent each week.
Another quest I had to do involved going to a small job agency to look for work. At first, your only option is to work as a waitress at a local restaurant. However, you can change to do another job if you’re not fond of that one or if you’re looking for a higher paying job; such as a cleaner at a big hotel or a baker’s apprentice at a local bakery, for instance. Your character can also work on side gigs in less than 24 hours if you’re in a rush for more money. And as you’re beginning to financially take care of your character, you’ll also have to go make an account at a bank; in which the bank teller will give you a free card to use. If you spend money on the card, however, you have to pay back the accurate amount on time.
Basic aspects aside, you can also explore the city and perform different lifestyle tasks and hobbies; just like if you were living the city life yourself. You can go eat at different bakeries and restaurants as you stroll through the many districts of Pixelia. In addition, you can meet new people and make new friends; as well as pursue romances You can also go to the academy to learn new skills for better-paying jobs, play basketball, drive cars, and more. I think there are also options to perform certain crimes; like pickpocketing and breaking into stores at night.
Speaking of that, becoming a mastermind criminal is one of the many “dreams” your character can pursue in Pixelia. Other examples of “dreams” to pursue include being a bestselling author, a popular supermodel, a star athlete, and more. You can even go as far as becoming the next President of Pixela, or just have a simpler dream of starting a family instead.
Just like with Hollywood Animal, I had a lot of fun playing To Pixelia too! It does not have an official release date yet, but the developers plan to release the game later on this year! The demo for To Pixelia is still available to play up until the end of Steam Next Fest!; which is in two days. If the demo is still available after that, then you will still have time to try it out!
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Demo Recommendation: Hollywood Animal
As the current Steam Next Fest is coming to an end soon, I thought I should go ahead and mention one of the game demos I enjoyed playing throughout the week. The game I would like to discuss, in particular, is called Hollywood Animal.
Hollywood Animal is a strategy, management sim where you – the protagonist – decide to get the rights to an old bankrupt movie studio. As a result of that, you begin to run & manage your own film production industry! With previously similar games, like The Movies (which came out for PC in 2005) for example, you would manage a movie studio. However, at least ninety percent of those games focus mainly on the movie-making part of the industry; and not the the other important aspects of running it, such as maintaining the finances, hiring actors & actresses, and distributing films to various theatres.
In the game, you will pick a name for your film studio, and pick one of the many logos to represent your business. In the beginning, you start by choosing one of the three films to begin your journey. That is where your first movie will be produced, advertised, and distributed to the public. Later on in the game, you will also have the ability to work with screenwriters to create new movie ideas; or go into the story workshop to build characters and plot ideas yourself.
For every movie you decide to create, you make choices for each type of department. You have to decide if certain scenes will take place in the studio or out in the public. You will also have to decide who to put in charge of the cinematography, the directing, the producing, the editing of the film, and more. As you go through the filmmaking process and the development of your film industry, you might bump into certain accidents or scenarios that involve making choices. And yes, these choices will affect not only your business, but those around you too; it may even affect you financially in the long run.
For example, in my first playthrough, one of my actresses decided not to continue with the movie until we could find her missing pet cat. If we choose to not help her, the filming schedule will proceed – but her loyalty & happiness levels will decrease profusely. If we decide to help her, however, her loyalty & happiness levels will increase, but film production will cease for approximately ten days. Another example would be the mayor’s daughter; which is one of the major quests to complete in the game. There was a situation where one of the stuntmen was being provocative towards her; and towards the other women on set. I had to choose between firing him and finding a new stuntman to avoid ruining the mayor’s daughter’s reputation or keeping him, but ending up losing loyalty & happiness levels from both her & the mayor himself.
Not only will you have to deal with the random scenarios throughout the film production process, but also other occurrences outside of that, as well. The game takes place during the twentieth century, starting off in the year 1929. You will have to deal with the effects of major historical events, such as the Great Depression, when working on your film studio. In addition, there are also other problems to occur based on the traits of certain employees. Some traits will represent if your screenwriter is a gambler or if one of your actors is a perfectionist, for instance.
Either way, I had a lot of fun playing Hollywood Animal! I cannot wait for it to be released sometime later this year! You can still play the demo for Hollywood Animal until the end of Steam Next Fest; and if it is still available after the event, then you have enough time to try it out!
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My Favorites From PlayStation State of Play (May 2024)
As a quick surprise, a recent PlayStation State of Play happened today! Here are my favorites from the PlayStation showcase:
1) Infinity Nikki (PS5), TBA
The developers behind the popular dress-up mobile game – Love Nikki – are currently making another game for the PlayStation 5 called Infinity Nikki! In addition, there will be a beta test for the game coming soon!
From what I know based on the trailer alone, Infinity Nikki is a dress-up, adventure game where the main protagonist – Nikki – goes on different journeys and completes numerous quests; all while wearing stylish clothes in the process! In addition to that, Nikki might have to fight monsters and difficult bosses along the way, as well!
Infinity Nikki does not have an official release date yet, but it will come out exclusively for the PlayStation 5 system!
2) Until Dawn (PS5), Fall 2024
The classic 2015 interactive game, Until Dawn, is getting a remaster for the PlayStation 5 console!
Until Dawn is an interactive horror game; almost similar to the cliches of a horror movie. However, players will make choices that may affect which of the main cast survives – and which doesn’t. The remaster will be the same as the original game, but with twice the better graphics!
Until Dawn does not have a specific release date yet, but they have announced that it will be released later this fall!
3) Monster Hunter Wilds (PS5), TBA 2025
Finally, the game shown near the end of the PlayStation State of Play is Monsger Hunter Wilds! This is one of the most anticipated games that many gamers are excited to hear more about!
  The new trailer showed off the game’s spectacular, yet realistic graphics; as well as some new characters, and some old ones too! Not only that, but it also revealed a new plot to the story; and some new monsters to battle, as well.
Monster Hunter Rise does not have an official release date yet, but it is planned to be released in 2025 for the PlayStation 5 system!
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Whatever Happened To Poptropica?
Source: IGBD.com (Poptropica Presskit) Back in the 2000s, many players during their childhood played computer games. Some would play dress-up games on websites like GamesGames or GirlsGoGames, while others would play MMO games like Wizard101 or Club Penguin. Nonetheless, one of the most underrated virtual world games was Poptropica!
Poptropica was supposedly an education virtual world for kids to play & learn things. For gamers who grew up playing Poptropica during their childhood, it was more than just an “educational” game. You can create your character, sail into different islands, and solve any mysteries or issues they come across.
In fact, each island had its own unique style, story, and dialogue. In 24 Carrot Island, for example, you help a small town whose entire carrot supply has been taken & controlled by the evil Dr. Carrot! Or in Zomberry Island where you try to escape from a horde of blue-colored zombies while trying to solve the mystery on how the zombie outbreak first happened!
As the website added in new islands and updates, they’ve even provided some sound effects for a few islands; such as Ghost Story Island and Virus Hunter Island. In addition, Ghost Story Island and Twisted Thicket Island were considered some of the scariest islands to go into & complete!
With so many fun islands to explore and accomplish, I wondered what happened to Poptropica? Well, one of the reasons would be the shutdown of Adobe Flash Player. To anyone not aware, Adobe Flash Player used to be one of the best free software where many online games were created and posted on various websites. However, on December 31st, 2020, Adobe Flash Player was officially shut down permanently. This affected not only Poptropica, but every game that relied on the software.
Another reason might be because of the drastic, yet somewhat unnecessary changes. Due to the aftermath of Adobe Flash Player being shut down completely, Poptropica has removed at least 90% of the islands. The only islands available were the new ones, plus one or two of the original islands. It seems like childhood nostalgia from the game has disappeared for many players; especially when you can only play through a limited number of islands. On top of that, there were also too many ad breaks the last time I checked.
The final reason, in my opinion, would be that as of a few months ago – the official Poptropica website no longer exists. The game still exists, of course, but everything has been transferred over to CoolMathGames. And even though it is a slight improvement, there is still the problem of multiple ads appearing and the small amount of islands.
In summary, me and other gamers (who are aware of/have experienced the game) really miss the old Poptropica. In addition to that, I feel like there are only two possible ways for Poptropica to return to what it once was. One way is through an alternative Adobe Flash Player program created to enable & support the official Poptropica webpage; and other games too. And the other way would be if someone would “revamp” Poptropica in its own way while also bringing back all of the nostalgic islands we known to love; like other people have done for Fusionfall and Toontown, for instance.
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Games That I Am Hoping To See During The Summer Games Fest 2024
As summer approaches, many gamers are excited for the upcoming Summer Games Fest 2024 (which is supposed to last from June 7th to June 10th/11th, at the very least). Because of this, I have decided to make a list of upcoming video games that I am 100% hoping for during the showcase:
1) Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, TBA 2024
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is a remaster of the original Epic Mickey game that came out in 2010. This time, however, with better graphics and movement controls!
In this game, you play as Mickey and due to some sudden circumstances, you get teleported to a world where old Disney characters live. With the power of a magical paintbrush, it is up to Mickey to stop the evil villain and save everyone!
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed does not have an official release date yet, but there is a possibility that it will be released later this year. So let us hope the developers will explain more about it during the Summer Games Fest! This game will be available for the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam) platforms.
2) Dragon Age 4: Dreadwolf, TBA
Ever since the announcement trailer during the 2020 Game Awards, we have not heard much about Dragon Age 4: Dreadwolf. Two more trailers were released not too long ago. However, those were only small teasers of the game; and not an actual “reveal”.
Dragon Age 4: Dreadwolf is an RPG game that will be the 4th installment of the Dragon Age franchise. There are so many questions that many Dragon Age fans, including myself, have for this game. For instance, what if the choices made by players within previous titles will transfer over to this one; like how it was with the Mass Effect series? Either way, we will not know any more about it and our questions will not be answered until the reveal during the Summer Games Fest.
Dragon Age 4: Dreadwolf has no official release date yet; not until the reveal, at least. However, it will be available for PlayStation 5 and PC (steam) platforms.
3) Monster Hunter Wilds, TBA 2025
Monster Hunter Wilds is the next game within the Monster Hunter franchise. Other than the announcement trailer during the 2023 Game Awards, there hasn’t been any news about it since.
This game will probably be like the previous Monster Hunter titles, where you create your character and hunt down monsters in various ecosystems. Except this time, there will probably be new game mechanics and a new story; which sounds very interesting! And just like Dragon Age 4: Dreadwolf, Monster Hunter Wilds will also be released during the Summer Games Fest.
Monster Hunter Wilds is planned to be released sometime next year. In addition, the game will be available for PlayStation 5 and PC (Steam)!
4) Until Dawn (PS5), TBA 2024
The PS5 version of Until Dawn is a remaster of the original Until Dawn that came out for PlayStation 4 in 2015.
Many people are highly aware of what this game is about, regardless of whether they have played it before or not. But to those who have never heard of the game or know 0% about it, I can make a quick summary for you. Until Dawn is an interactive horror game where you take control of eight different characters, and pick choices that affect who survives and who does not.
There is no official release date yet for the remaster of Until Dawn. However, of course, it will be available for the PlayStation 5; and for PC (Steam) too!
5) Kingdom Hearts 4, TBA
One of the biggest anticipated games, so far, Kingdom Hearts 4 is on almost every person’s wishlist; including myself! There haven’t been any new trailers for the game since it was first announced in early 2022.
Kingdom Hearts 4 is the next installment of the Kingdom Hearts series. A fantasy adventure game starring the protagonist: Sora. Sora is the “saviour” of the game who fights the darkness and protects the light; while traveling to different Disney universes, and befriending characters like Jack Skellington & Hercules in the process.
Kingdom Hearts 4 does not have an official release date yet, but let us hope there will be a new trailer for it during the Summer Games Fest! Kingdom Hearts 4 will be available for the PlayStation 5; as well as for the current Xbox consoles, too.
6) Black Myth Wukong, August 20th 2024
A Dark Souls-like game called Black Myth Wukong is coming soon later this summer! Even though this has an official release date, many players want to know more about the game and its story!
Black Myth Wunkong is an action, hack-and-slash, adventure game with characters & scenery fully based on Chinese mythology; especially based on the book “Journey to the West”. The player controls the role of the protagonist: Sun Wukong. In addition, Wukong ends up fighting villainous bosses throughout his journey; such as a giant spider or a flying, white dragon!
The game, Black Myth Wukong, will be released on August 20th, 2024 for the PS5 and PC (Steam)!
7) Star Wars Eclipse, TBA
Quantic Dreams, the developers behind games like “Heavy Rain” and “Detroit Become Human” are currently in development for a new game called Star War Eclipse. We haven’t heard anything about the game since the announcement trailer during the 2021 Game Awards.
From what we know, however, Star Wars Eclipse will be an interactive story game. In addition, players will get to play as multiple protagonists and make choices that affect the story and those around them, as well. In fact, this game’s entire aspect is slightly similar to the previous Quantic Dreams games as mentioned before!
Star Wars Eclipse has no official release date yet, but let’s cross our fingers and hope for another reveal during the Summer Games Fest! Additionally, it might be about on Steam, but I am not sure about the other consoles though.
8) Professor Layton and The New World of Steam, TBA 2025
After years of waiting for a new Professor Layton game to be announced, now there is going to be one coming out soon!
Professor Layton is a series where the protagonists, Professor Layton and his assistant – Luke Triton, go on many adventures and solve intriguing puzzles in the process. Based on the recent trailer for Professor Layton and the New World of Steam last year, it looks like the duo will be traveling from England to America; for a whole new world of mysteries & puzzles to solve!
Professor Layton and the New World of Steam does not have an official release date yet but according to the official website, there is a possibility that it will be released sometime next year! The game will be available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch.
9) Rune Factory 6 + Rune Factory: Project Dragon, TBA
Now unlike the other games I have previously mentioned in this article, these are two games from the same franchise currently in development.
Rune Factory 6 will be the 6th installment of the series, but Rune Factory: Project Dragon will be a new project coming out soon. There is no official release date for either of these games. In addition, there is no mention of what platforms it will be playable on too.
We will have to wait until the Summer Games Fest and hope for the best. Until then, if you didn’t get a chance to do so, you could check out this video (created by “Harvest Moon All Sites” showcasing trailers for both games here!
10) Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time, October 10th 2024
When Fantasy Life first came out for the Nintendo 3DS in 2012, it was one of the most popular RPG games of the decade. However, the game’s popularity has slowly decreased since then; until recently, that is!
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is an upcoming game that will be the 2nd installment of the series. It is a role-playing, simulation game where players create their own character and participate in numerous “jobs” throughout the island. Examples, such as Cook, Hunter, and Angler; as well as brand new “jobs”, like Artist and Farmer! Not only that, but you will also partake in a story of solving the mysteries hidden throughout the island!
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time will be released on October 10th, 2024 exclusively for the Nintendo Switch!
11) Pokemon Legends: Z-A, TBA 2025
The Pokemon Company, the subsidiary of the game developer – Game Freak, is currently in development for the possible sequel to Pokemon Legends: Arceus. This time, it is called Pokemon Legends: Z-A!
Unlike the first game which takes place in the past, Pokemon Legends: Z-A will take place in Lumoise City; which might happen in the future since the city is under urban redevelopment. There is no further information regarding the game at this time, but let us hope there will be more to hear about during the Summer Games Fest!
There is no official release date yet, but it is planned to be released sometime next year! Pokemon Legends: Z-A will exclusively be for the Nintendo Switch.
12) The Dark Pictures Anthology: Directive 8020, TBA
Since the first season of The Dark Pictures Anthology has concluded, the developers – Supermassive Games – are under development for the 2nd season of the game. There is some confirmation of the titles for the next four stories within the season. The first one that will be released soon, and the one that I would like to discuss, is Directive 8020.
From what we know based on the teaser trailer, Directive 8020 will take place in outer space. On top of that, five main characters (which was the premise for previous games) have to survive in a space shuttle as a possible alien or galactic creature is out to get them! And of course, players will make dire choices affecting which character survives and which does not.
Directive 8020 does not have an official release date yet. In addition, there is no mention of which platforms it will be released on either.
13) Yo-Kai Watch 4, TBA
Now this game, in particular, has only been released in Japan in 2019; and released in China in 2023. Yo-Kai Watch 4 has never been released in the West. Yo-Kai Watch 4 is a recent installment to the franchise where you control three different protagonists; one from the past, one from the present, and one from the future.
I am bringing this up because the game developer, Level-5, was scheduled to present a gaming showcase around April 2024. However, it has been delayed to next month; which is when the Summer Games Fest is scheduled to present.
Since there is no news about a western release for Yo-Kai Watch 4 yet, there is no information regarding release dates and platforms. We will just have to wait until next month to see if the game will transfer to the West or not.
14) Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP, TBA 2024
Lollipop Chainsaw, a popular game released in 2012, is being remastered for current consoles. This time, through the name: Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP.
In this game, players play as Juliet Starling, the protagonist. The players help her embark on an epic quest with her boyfriend to fight off zombies with her chainsaw; and save the world from a zombie apocalypse.
Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP has no official release date yet, so let us hope there is an announcement or a trailer for it during the Summer Games Fest next month! There are also no confirmations for platforms yet.
15) Jet Set Radio Remake, TBA
There have been some rumors about this, but it has been confirmed according to the Sega trailer from the 2023 Game Awards. Jet Set Radio is going to be rebooted for current consoles!
Jet Set Radio was a game, that came out in 2002, where you control different characters and perform neat tricks (with skateboards, rollerskates, or bicycles); while spraying graffiti everywhere too. Additionally, based on the Sega trailer, the game seems to have updated graphics and will be open-world.
The Jet Set Radio remake has no confirmed release date yet, but it will possibly be playable for current consoles.
16) Glam Pursuit, TBA
The following games I will discuss are mainly just for PC/Steam; starting with Glam Pursuit! Glam Pursuit is a visual novel, simulation game where players create their own main protagonist and embark on a quest for fame.
According to the demo (which I did a demo recommendation of earlier this year), you will make various choices that will affect your personality, skills, and relationships. For example: during one part of the demo, you had to choose between working at a bookstore or an all-exclusive nightclub as a 2nd job to help save money on a new apartment. One choice might provide instant access to A-listers, while the other might provide something else; like a skill boost or a new personality trait!
There is no official release date yet for Glam Pursuit, but it will be released for PC (Steam)! In fact, you can play the demo on Steam right now!
17) The Bustling World, TBA
Next up is another simulation game called The Bustling World. From what I know, it is a life-sim RPG game that takes place in the Ancient China era.
In The Bustling World, players will embark on establishing their city from the ground up. On top of that, you will also partake in strategic, yet different choices that will affect your city’s status and the townfolks living among it. You can learn more about the game through this trailer here.
The Bustling World does not have an official release date yet, but it will be available for PC (Steam)!
18) The Ranchers, TBA 2024
The Ranchers is an upcoming farming sim with an optional multiplayer feature; which up to four players can play together online.
This is like any other farming life game where players will build a farm, grow crops, maintain livestock, and have relationships. However, this game has multiple features to look into. One feature is the ability to construct your home completely from scratch! Another is different alternatives to traveling besides on foot; such as on scooter, on horseback, by yacht, and more!
The Ranchers does not have an official release date yet, but there is a possibility that it will be released later this year! In addition, it will be available to play on PC (Steam)!
19) To Pixelia, TBA
To Pixelia is another life-sim game where you create your own character and live your life the way you want. From my perspective, the graphics remind me of a mixture between Stardew Valley and Always Sometimes Monsters; whereas the gameplay just reminds me of The Sims series, in general.
In the game, you move into a new city and pursue a career of your choosing; like a fashion model, a chef, or even a basketball player! I also believe that you can befriend, make enemies of, and romance other characters that live out their own lives within the game too!
To Pixelia does not have an official release date yet, but it will be playable on PC (Steam) once it is released!
20) Inzoi, TBA
The final game to discuss on this list is called Inzoi. It is one of the most anticipated simulation games, so far, and one of the many competitors to The Sims series too!
Inzoi is a life simulation game currently in development by the South Korean gaming company: KRAFTON. There is not much information on the game yet, but I believe there will be choices that will affect a player’s character; such as their lifestyle, needs, and even social reputation.
Inzoi does not have an official release date yet, and there is no information regarding platforms either. -
Should Sunset Overdrive Be Remastered?
Sunset Overdrive came out solely on the Xbox series back in 2014. However, I was unable to purchase the game at the time because I only had a PlayStation 4 console instead of an Xbox. Then in late 2018, it was re-released on Steam for the PC port. However, many players, including myself, were 100% not satisfied with the PC version at all; mainly because of how difficult the game’s controls were.
For context: Sunset Overdrive is an open-world, action-adventure game where you create your own protagonist and explore an apocalyptic town called Sunset City. Everyone within said city has been transformed into these faceless, orange-colored mutants due to the consumption of a recently popular energy drink. As for those unaffected or who did not consume the “mysterious” energy drinks, they had to adapt & survive within this apocalyptic world while also on the search to find a cure to fix everything. Furthermore, with the help of allies along the way, it is up to you to save everyone else; and, hopefully, prevent any more outbreaks from happening in the future!
Truthfully, nobody is really sure if there is ever going to be a remaster; or perhaps the possibility of a sequel to Sunset Overdrive. I, in my opinion, still believe that there is still a good chance for that to happen. However, until then, we will not hear any upcoming news or announcements from the developers for a very, very long time. If this were to happen, however, the game should expand towards gaming consoles outside of just the Xbox series; such as, for instance, for the PlayStation for PlayStation 5 systems.
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Fire Emblem: Three Houses Throwback Review
Fire Emblem: Three Houses was one of the Fire Emblem series I have finished, so far. However, based on my experience throughout the game, there were a couple of things that I liked and disliked about it.
For context without spoiling the game, you play as a protagonist (you can choose if the protagonist is male or female) and due to coincidental circumstances, you become a professor at a fighting academy. In addition to that, you get to choose one of the following “houses” to teach: Black Eagles, Blue Lions, or Golden Deer. Throughout the gameplay, you get to level up both your skills & your students’ skills, form friendships with the main cast and other NPCs, and partake in strategic battles. This is usually how it works in the Fire Emblem series, minus the “academic” atmosphere.
There were three things in Fire Emblem: Three Houses I enjoyed the most. One of them was the battle music. The combat themes, which change depending on the location’s weather, made you feel like you were part of a big, upcoming battle! Not only that, but you were able to take it seriously when it came to making strategic battle plans for your protagonist & his/her team.
The second thing I liked about the game was the “classroom” segment of the game; where you teach your and support them in improving certain skills depending on the type of class they want to become. So if a character wants to be an Archer, for example, they would need to level up their bow & arrow skills. Then after that, they have a choice of becoming a Sniper, Falcon Knight, or a Bow Knight; which requires them to level up their bow & arrow skills more, as well as other skills outside of their expertise – like sword, lance, flying, and/or horse riding.
As for the third thing I liked, I enjoyed the game’s plot. Fire Emblem: Three Houses did a great job showcasing different emotions from the characters and presenting multiple sides to everything. In addition, in certain parts of the game, you get to make choices that could lead to a big shift in the flow of the story. In addition to that, your decisions could also affect your relationships with people and lead to one of the game’s many endings; but you would have to play through all three houses if you want to unlock all of the endings.
Even though there have been a few positives for Fire Emblem: Three Houses, there are a few negatives that I would like to discuss. I would like to start off by saying that I was not a fan of the romance system in the game. For context, you can romance certain characters based on the protagonist’s gender. Although this makes sense, I just disliked how limited the options were. When I played the female protagonist, regardless of which house I had chosen, the only options I had were a few male characters and one or two female characters. So if I wanted to romance Bernadetta (one of the characters in the Black Eagles house), for instance, I couldn’t do it unless my protagonist was male.
The next thing I disliked was how some parts of the battle system did not make sense to me. Now a character can level up after gaining some experience in battle but it felt like no matter how many battles I completed, the leveling system is too slow. This especially goes for healers or those with little to no movements in the game; which led to them getting defeated during the first three turns of the game. I’m also saying this because, during one of my playthroughs, I was in the final battle for the Golden Deer house. And during that final battle, at least half of my team was defeated during the first five turns. By the time I had gotten to the final boss, I realized that the final boss had too many “buffs”; which made it difficult for my team to even leave a scratch on him. In my opinion, it felt like an unfair advantage – especially when the difficulty level was set to easy or something similar.
There were many pros and cons to Fire Emblem: Three Houses, but I would not say that players should avoid buying it at all costs. In fact, I still think that players could partake in this game! However, they should consider the limited romance options and excessive amounts of strategies that come with the game; especially for those new to the tactical RPG genre!
Game Rating: 8.5/10
Fire Emblem: Three Houses (2019), Nintendo Switch
Developers: Intelligent Systems & Kou Shibusawa, Publisher: Nintendo
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Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy Throwback Review
The upcoming Layton game, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam, was first announced last year for the Nintendo Switch; with a possibility of being released sometime next year! Because of this, I have decided to catch up on the series by completing one of the main entries of the series. This is a review for Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy!
For context, within the series, you travel across the world and solve puzzles while simultaneously solving any mysteries or crimes ahead. Unlike past games where you play as Professor Layton, you follow the journey of Katrielle – Layton’s daughter – in this game. Although it brought back so much nostalgia from playing the series during my childhood, I feel like Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaire’s Conspiracy lacks some of the aspects that previous games had.
Let’s start off with the puzzles in the game. There are almost 190 to 200 puzzles in total, and I have only completed at least 105 to 110 of them. I felt like some puzzles were a bit too challenging, in my opinion. At the same time, however, there were other puzzles that I also felt were not challenging enough. I was able to solve some of them with no problem, but I would sometimes search for answers to complete a puzzle; because to proceed with the game’s story, you have to complete the puzzles that happened within each case.
Speaking of the story, there were some things that I enjoyed, and there were some that I disliked. What I enjoyed was the character interaction. I enjoyed every character throughout the game; except one of the main cast, which was the talking dog. Another thing that I enjoyed was the mini-games found within the little trunk icon in the game. My favorites were “Ideal Meal” and “Passers Buy”. Ideal Meal is a mini-game where you create meals based on a certain person’s appetite; meals, which, you can unlock as you proceed through the game. Passers Buy is another mini-game where you sort out different jewelry and other trinkets under what the customer is interested in buying. Additionally, even though this is not technically a mini-game, I want to add that I have enjoyed both the wardrobe and interior decorating mechanics in the game; which will let me dress Katrielle in different outfits and decorate her office/detective agency within my taste.
What I disliked, however, was the game’s story. I felt like the story was not engaging enough as most of the gameplay is completing these 12 cases. I felt like the only time the story was compelling was during the 11th case, 12th case, and ending. Everything else from the start of the game all the way to the end of the 10th case felt highly irrelevant to the main plot. Now I could sort of understand the game’s beginning because they were just introducing new characters in the series. However, the only time cases 1 through 10 were relevant was to introduce the supporting characters known as the “Seven Dragons of London”.
Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy did have its pros and cons. The plot felt out of place to me, from my perspective, but everything else within the game was good enough for me. Even though I will not give it a very high rating, I feel that it is a fun game to play for those interested in puzzle games; or those interested in the Layton series, and would like to prepare themselves for the new Layton game in the future!
Game Rating: 6.5/10
Layton’s Mystery Journey: Katrielle and the Millionaires’ Conspiracy (2017), 3DS
Developer: Level-5, Publisher: Level-5, Nintendo of America, Inc.
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