When I first saw the trailer for Stray, I was like “yo… what is this?” A game where you play as a cat? Kinda weird. But after seeing a few gameplay clips on TikTok and Twitch, the curiosity kicked in. Plus, it’s an indie game—and I’m always down to support the underdogs (or in this case, undercats).

Turns out… this game? Fire.

A Cat’s-Eye View of a Broken World

You play as a stray cat trying to survive in a dystopian city filled with creepy alien creatures and lonely robots. There’s no real talking—just robotic mumbling from NPCs during quests. But that silence? It works. It adds to the mystery, the loneliness, the immersion.

And yo… the graphics are stunning. Every alleyway, neon light, and rusted rooftop is dripping with atmosphere. It’s like stepping into a cyberpunk postcard—just from 10 inches off the ground.

No Claws, No Guns, Just Smart Moves

Here’s the twist—you don’t fight like a normal action game. No clawing enemies or cat-fu takedowns. Instead, you use strategy, stealth, and puzzles to outsmart your enemies and navigate the world. It’s super creative, and the PS5 haptics? On point. You feel every little paw step, jump, and meow through the controller.

The mission designs are tight, and one part in particular almost broke me: the trophy challenge where you have to sprint through enemies without getting caught. Still haven’t done it… but I’m coming back for that Platinum, mark my words.

The Vibes Hit Hard

What really caught me off guard was the emotional depth. The story is sad. Like really sad. It explores loneliness, memory, and survival in a world where humanity is long gone. And even without words, it says a lot.

It’s the kind of game that doesn’t just stick because of gameplay—it sticks because of how it makes you feel.

Final Verdict: 4/5 UPS

Stray is hands down one of the most original indie games I’ve played in years. It fully deserved that Best Indie Game of 2022 award. If you’re into cats, post-apocalyptic worlds, or just want something that hits different—play this game.

It’s not about saving the world… it’s about surviving it. As a cat.

When I first saw the trailer for Assassin’s Creed Mirage, I was instantly hyped. Assassins operating in the ancient Arab world? The word “assassin” literally comes from Arabic origins, so this setting just makes sense—and it makes the whole vibe way cooler.

This game dives back into what Assassin’s Creed is all about—stealth, brotherhood, shadows, and secrets. If you’re new to the franchise or started with games like Valhalla or Odyssey, Mirage gives you a crash course on what it truly means to be an assassin.

A City That Breathes – Welcome to 9th Century Baghdad

One thing Mirage absolutely nails is the setting. Baghdad feels alive. The city is buzzing with people, merchants, guards—and if you mess up a kill in public, expect to see your face on wanted posters real quick. Civilians actually react to what you do, which adds to the realism.

It’s a gorgeous homage to Arabic culture, from the architecture to the ambient music. It’s the little things that make it immersive.

Basim – From Mysterious Rogue to Selfless Hero

If you’ve played AC Valhalla, you probably remember Basim as that shady guy with hidden motives. But in Mirage, we see a completely different side of him. Young Basim is relatable, loyal, and driven by something more than personal gain.

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His growth throughout the story actually made me like him more than I expected. Mirage gives him depth—and that’s something I appreciate in an AC game.

Stealth, Parkour, and Combat – Back to Basics

Mirage brings the series back to its roots. It’s a pure stealth game at heart. If you’re hoping for the combat depth of Ghost of Tsushima or Witcher 3, you won’t find that here. But what you do get is the thrill of sneaking, blending in, stalking your target, and striking like a true assassin.

The parkour feels way smoother than Valhalla. And even though I missed having a wide range of combat styles or weapon loadouts, Mirage kept me entertained by letting me play it smart instead of loud.

Bugs, Graphics, and the Short Campaign

Not gonna lie—the character models could use some love, and I did run into a few bugs here and there. Nothing game-breaking, just a little janky sometimes. Also, the game felt a bit short—I was left wanting more missions, more skills, and more gear to mess around with.

But still… I had a good time. Sneaking around, pulling off perfect assassinations, and exploring the city scratched that itch I’ve had for old-school AC.

Final Verdict – 4/5 UPS!

Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a solid return to the series’ roots. It’s not as grand or packed as Odyssey or Origins, but it captures the essence of being a stealthy, sharp-robed killer in a living, breathing world.

If you want flashy combat, this might not be your game. But if you’re here for the assassin fantasy? Mirage delivers.

Still not sure which AC game to dive into first? Check out my Assassin’s Creed Odyssey review.

Final Fantasy XVI was my first real dive into the franchise. I’ve always heard about FF from other gamers—legendary status, right? But I never actually played one… until now.
I saw the trailer and thought, “Okay, this looks epic.” And honestly? The gameplay is what sold me. This ain’t your old-school turn-based RPG. Nope—this game is all about action. Fast-paced swordplay, insane Eikon abilities, and some of the smoothest combat I’ve played in a while. You’re basically out here pulling off anime fights in real-time. Combat definitely carried the game.

Combat – Flashy, Fast, and Addictive

Let’s start with what this game does best: combat. You get all kinds of slick combos, cinematic finishers, and wild Eikon powers that level the whole battlefield. It’s smooth, it’s flashy, and most of all—it’s fun. If you like action-heavy RPGs, you’re gonna love how Final Fantasy XVI handles its fights.

Story – Chaotic but Ambitious

Alright, time for real talk—the story kinda lost me. There’s a lot going on: betrayals, gods, politics, timelines… You name it. Maybe it hits harder if you’ve played other Final Fantasy games, but for me? It felt like too much crammed into one game. Still, I kept going because the world was dope, and the boss fights?

Graphics & Presentation – Next-Gen Flex

This game is a visual showcase.
Bosses are massive. Environments are detailed. Cutscenes feel like you’re watching a movie.
The only downside? No real character progression. It’s a bit too linear in that sense. I wanted to switch characters, mix up classes or builds, but nah—you’re locked into one path. Not a dealbreaker, but something to note.

Final Thoughts – Worth Playing for the Action

Would I replay it? Not right now.
But I don’t regret the playthrough at all. If you want a game that looks amazing, plays like a dream, and lets you blast through enemies with giant Eikon powers, this is it.

Final Verdict: 4/5 UPS!

Not perfect—but definitely a solid entry if you’re new to the Final Fantasy world.
The combat alone makes it worth it, even if the story’s a bit of a mess.

This was my first time diving into the Dragon’s Dogma franchise, and I’ll be real—it didn’t click with me right away. The combat felt kinda clunky at first and I wasn’t sure if this was my kind of action RPG. But instead of dropping it, I did what any gamer does when they feel under-leveled… I explored. And that’s where the magic of this game started to grow on me.

Gameplay – A Strategic Grind That Rewards You Later

At the beginning, the combat felt exhausting, especially coming from smoother games like Ghost of Tsushima or Lies of P. But once I got into the rhythm, upgraded my build, and started testing different classes and combos—it got good.

Fighting mythical creatures like cyclops, chimeras and dragons wasn’t just button-mashing, it was all about strategy. If your party isn’t built right, you’re gonna get wiped. It forces you to think, adapt, and build smarter. It’s a whole other level of gameplay.

Oh, and the final boss? Absolute chaos. But if you plan your skills and setup properly—you can beat it. And it feels damn satisfying when you do.

Story & Dialogue – Rich Worldbuilding

One thing I didn’t expect: the dialogues and NPC interactions are actually fire. Every side quest feels like it belongs to someone’s story, and if you’re not paying attention, you’ll miss some plot points entirely. Some missions are a bit dull, but others pull you right in.

The world feels alive, and even though the story moves slowly at first, it pays off with emotional weight toward the end.

Graphics & World Design

Visually, it’s not the best I’ve ever seen. But honestly? It fits. The gritty fantasy setting, weather changes, torch-lit caves—it brings that old-school RPG vibe in a modern shell. Could it be prettier? Sure. But does it deliver the atmosphere? Definitely.

Final Verdict – 4/5 Ups! 

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a slow starter, but once you level up your character and adjust to the combat, it really shines. It’s not my preferred combat style—but the story, dialogue, boss fights, and creature design make it worth playing.

If you’re into deep RPGs with strategy-heavy combat and a world that rewards patience, this one’s for you. I give it 4/5 Ups – and yeah, I do recommend it.

Want to read more RPG reviews? Check out my full breakdowns of Lies of P, Horizon Forbidden West, and Sekiro on the blog #LevelUpWithDann

Let’s be real—Assassin’s Creed Odyssey was my first-ever AC game, and honestly? It made me a fan.I know the internet can be harsh on the “new wave” Assassin’s Creed games. I’ve seen all the debates: “It’s not like Black Flag!”, “It’s not real AC unless it’s stealth-only!”—but for someone who didn’t grow up on the classics like AC III or Brotherhood, this game was a wild ride in the best way possible.

Odyssey Introduced Me to the Creed

The second I dropped into ancient Greece, I was hooked.

• Greek mythology + open-world RPG = my kind of game
  
• You can go stealth or go full Spartan warrior, and that freedom is what makes it so fun
  
• Whether you’re sniping from rooftops or charging into a fight, the mechanics allow for both playstyles
  

Combat isn’t perfect—but it’s smooth, engaging, and always feels rewarding. That Spartan Kick? Legendary. Never gets old launching someone off a cliff.

Graphics, Story & Immersion

For a PS4-era game, the graphics are still top-notch. The landscapes, ancient architecture, and character detail are super immersive. I genuinely felt like I was exploring real Greek islands—complete with ruins, statues, and war-torn cities.

The story is also pretty good. It’s not a true story, but it pulls from historical events and mythology in a way that made me want to look things up after playing. Some of it was actually accurate, which made it even cooler.

Freedom to Explore – And It’s Massive

This game is huge. You could spend hours just roaming around, doing side quests, hunting cultists, or looting treasure from sunken ships. The map is massive, and the world actually rewards exploration.

From sailing the Aegean Sea to discovering mythical beasts—there’s always something to do.

Odyssey vs Origins

After finishing Odyssey, I played Assassin’s Creed Origins too—and loved that one as well. 

• Origins has the Egyptian mystique. Read the full review on Assassin’s Creed Origins here.
  
• Odyssey brings in the Greek gods and war culture. Both games are fire, but Odyssey holds a special place because it was my first dive into the franchise.

Final Verdict – 4/5 Ups!

I didn’t Platinum Odyssey (some of the trophies made no sense—lol), but I still spent countless hours in the game and don’t regret a second. For anyone who’s curious about Assassin’s Creed RPGs, this is a perfect starting point.

4/5 Ups! Highly recommended if you’re into mythology, open-world action, and don’t mind launching people off cliffs for fun. Up for the challenge? Purchase Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.

Thinking of Starting Odyssey?

If you love Greek mythology, open-world freedom, and RPG-style gameplay, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey might just be your next obsession. Already played it? Let me know your favorite mythical creature fight or the wildest cliff kick you landed.

Yeah yeah, I know I’m late to the party—but I finally jumped into Astro Bot to see what the hype was about. This little blue bot somehow walked away with Game of the Year in 2024, so I had to find out: did it actually deserve it?

Haptics? Next Level.

Let’s give credit where it’s due—Astro Bot nails the feel. The way it uses the DualSense controller is . From subtle vibrations to full-on haptic madness, it really shows off what the PS5 controller is capable of. Every jump, pull, and glide feels responsive and playful. The devs clearly went all in on the hardware experience, and I respect that.

Fun Game, But …

Now here’s where I keep it real. While the game is charming, packed with cute references and platforming joy, it didn’t hit me with that wow factor.
No deep lore. No heavy-hitting combat. No game-changing mechanics. It’s a great casual experience, but let’s not pretend this is Black Myth: Wukong or Expedition 33.

When I beat a boss in Wukong, I felt proud. When I got the platinum in Expedition 33, I felt like I accomplished something real.
Astro Bot? I had fun… but I never felt the urge to replay or chase trophies. It’s not that kind of game for me.

GOTY? Kinda Felt Political…

I’ll say it—this might be a controversial take, but Astro Bot winning GOTY felt more like a “safe” pick than a celebration of innovation. It was polished, it was fun, and yeah, it made good use of PlayStation tech… but GOTY? In a year that gave us Black Myth: Wukong?! C’mon.

Wukong was a new IP, fresh on every layer—combat, world design, bosses, cultural depth. It pushed the genre forward.

Final Verdict: 4/5 UPS

Look, I’m not here to trash it. Astro Bot is a great time, especially if you want something lighthearted and creative. But GOTY? That’s a stretch. 4/5 UPS from me. Cool game. Not replayable. Not unforgettable. Just fun.

And Now… 2025 Is Already Wild

This year? Sheeeesh. Expedition 33 is easily my GOTY so far—but I haven’t played Ghost of Yōtei yet. And if that game lives up to the hype? I might have to rethink my choice.

Spider-Man: Miles Morales on PS5 was the first Spider-Man game I played, and it instantly pulled me into the world. The graphics are stunning, the map is wide and alive, and the combat is smooth, stylish, and addictive. From the first swing through Harlem to the final boss fight, it felt like I was in a true Marvel story.

Gameplay – Fast, Fluid, and Satisfying

The combat mechanics are seriously on point. Between Venom abilities, slick dodging, and a solid lineup of gadgets, there’s never a dull fight. I played this game three times—not because I had to, but because I wanted that Platinum Trophy, and it was worth every second.

Even on the highest difficulty, I handled myself well, but I was expecting the final boss to put up a bit more of a fight. Still, the journey there was packed with hype moments, clean combos, and enemy encounters that kept the pace exciting.

Atmosphere – Harlem With Heart

What really set Miles Morales apart was its vibe. The Latin culture, the music, the winter setting, the energy in the streets—it all felt real. The way they blended community warmth with superhero action gave the game a different kind of soul.

You’re not just swinging through a city—you’re swinging through Miles’ neighborhood, and that makes every mission feel personal.

Final Verdict – 5/5 Ups!

Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a full-fledged superhero game that brings heart, heat, and high-flying action. It stands tall on its own and still left me wanting more—which is why I jumped into Spider-Man 2 right after.

5/5 Ups! A game that looks great, feels amazing, and stays with you long after the credits roll.

Did You Start Your Spidey Journey with Miles Too?

Which suit did you rock the most? And how many tries did your Platinum run take? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

I’ve been into the Assassin’s Creed franchise ever since Odyssey. Stealth kills, fluid combat, deep lore, and that perfect mix of fiction with real history? I’m all in. So when Assassin’s Creed Shadows got announced, I was curious—a shinobi and a samurai in one game? Set in feudal Japan? Say less.

Gameplay – Stealth, Steel, and Switching Styles

The big win for AC Shadows is being able to play as both a shinobi and a samurai. Two fighting styles. Two mindsets. One massive world to sneak, slice, or smash your way through. Whether you’re slipping into shadows or rushing into battle with your katana drawn, the combat stays sharp and responsive.

The gear system and abilities let you fine-tune your playstyle, and while some side quests felt repetitive, I used them as a chance to test combos and git gud.

But here’s the thing—I was expecting more from the boss fights. A few were solid, but overall they felt a bit too easy, especially later in the game. I wanted more tension, more challenge.

World & Atmosphere – A Gorgeous Take on Feudal Japan

As someone who loves Japan-based games, Assassin’s Creed Shadows hits different. From serene temples to muddy battlefields, the visuals are stunning. The outfits and weapon designs are beautiful and feel authentic to the era. The map? Absolutely massive, with tons to explore. Curious how AC Shadows compares to other open world games? I rounded up the best open world maps in this article

I played the full game in Japanese audio, and that boosted the immersion big time. From ambient sounds to character interactions—it made everything feel richer and more cinematic.

Story – A Risk That Mostly Paid Off

I’ll admit it—I was skeptical when Ubisoft announced a Black samurai as one of the leads. But after digging in, I realized it’s loosely based on Yasuke, a real figure from Japanese history. The game doesn’t aim for 100% accuracy, but it weaves in enough real-world influence to keep it grounded but flexible.

That said, the ending felt a bit off to me. It wrapped things up, but not in a way that stuck with me emotionally. It could’ve hit harder, especially after such a strong mid-game.

Final Verdict – 4/5 Ups!

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is one of the freshest entries the series has had in years. A breathtaking world, dual combat systems, and that immersive feudal Japan setting all make this one stand out hard.

4/5 Ups! Still a must-play—might go for that Platinum Trophy anyway, but the underwhelming boss fights and slightly off-key ending pulled it down just a bit. Want to try it yourself? Grab your copy here.

Horror games are easily one of my favorite genres, and Resident Evil: Village proved why. Even though the game felt a bit short, I still enjoyed every second of it—from the quiet tension to the chaotic boss fights. I haven’t played all the older Resident Evil titles, so I don’t know the full franchise lore. But even coming in half-blind, the story of Village held up. Not mind-blowing, but definitely good enough to keep me invested.

Gameplay – Guns, Guts, and Grit

Let’s talk combat. It’s solid—tense, responsive, and just the right amount of chaotic. I was living for the jump scares, and some of the boss fights were seriously fun. My favorites? Definitely Karl Heisenberg and Urias—those fights were intense, gritty, and satisfying.

The final boss though? A bit underwhelming in terms of story payoff, but on highest difficulty… it’s a different beast. That’s the one thing standing between me and the Platinum Trophy. I keep dying. Is it bad gear? Not enough ammo? Or maybe I just need to git gud. Either way, it’s personal now.

Atmosphere – Gorgeous and Creepy AF

This game knows how to set a mood. The graphics are top-notch, with every dark corner and snowy village alley dripping in detail. And let’s not forget that baby scene—you know the one. Creepy AF, easily one of the most disturbing moments I’ve ever played through.

The way Village balances survival horror, action, and psychological horror is impressive. It kept me guessing and kept me tense—exactly what I want from a horror title.

Final Verdict – 4/5 Ups!

Resident Evil: Village might not be the longest entry, but it’s packed with enough horror, chaos, and boss fights to keep you hooked. If you’re new to the series or just love horror like me, this one’s worth the play.

4/5 Ups! And maybe a full 5 once I beat that final boss on max difficulty and grab that Platinum.

Still Stuck on the Final Boss Too?

Which fight was your favorite? Did that baby scene mess you up too? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we survive horror together.

While scrolling through the PlayStation Store, I came across this cute little robot called Astro and thought, “Looks fun—why not?” Glad I trusted the instinct, because Astro’s Playroom is a surprising gem. It’s not just a platformer—it’s a celebration of PlayStation itself.

Gameplay – Light, Smooth, and Fun to Explore

Astro’s Playroom drops you right into the world inside your PS5, where the console’s hardware and software come to life. You explore different zones that represent components of the PlayStation, and along the way, you fight off quirky bugs and viruses that act like mini-villains.

The gameplay is super smooth, and the DualSense controller shines here with haptic feedback that makes every step, jump, and glide feel so responsive. It’s the kind of game that’s fun to chill with—no stress, just pure enjoyment.

Nostalgia & Artifacts – A PlayStation Time Capsule

What makes this game really stand out is the nostalgia factor. As you play, you collect artifacts like the PlayStation 2 console, old accessories, and other throwbacks. It’s like going through a museum of PlayStation history, and for fans of the brand, it hits the heart.

Each level is packed with little Easter eggs, playful animations, and references that make it feel alive and full of charm. You don’t need to be a hardcore gamer to enjoy this one—it’s wholesome, accessible, and just a feel-good experience.

Visuals & Vibe – Colorful and Clean

The graphics are surprisingly good, with bright, polished visuals that make each zone feel fun and futuristic. Everything moves seamlessly, and the world is packed with detail, giving it a Pixar-like energy.

It’s the perfect blend of fun gameplay, console tribute, and creative design.

Final Verdict – 4/5 Ups!

Astro’s Playroom is a must-play for anyone with a PS5. Whether you want to relax, explore PlayStation’s legacy, or just vibe with a cute robot—this one delivers.

4/5 Ups! Wholesome, smooth, and full of love for gaming.

Did You Play Astro Yet?

What artifact made you the most nostalgic? Drop your favorite PlayStation memory in the comments!