Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

When this game was first revealed, I was hyped beyond words. Futuristic setting, crazy detail, neon lights, gritty city vibes—it was giving Tokyo and Hong Kong in another timeline. And since I actually lived in both cities, that aesthetic felt personal. No joke: Cyberpunk 2077 was one of the main reasons I got a PS5. Might be a controversial take, but I’m glad I made that move.

That Messy Launch… Yeah, I Waited

I watched all the trailers, soaked up the hype, but when the game dropped? Bugs everywhere. I saw the early gameplay and said, “Yeah, nah—I’ll wait.” The concept was , but the execution flopped at launch. It felt like the devs rushed to drop something that clearly needed more time. So I shelved the idea… for a while.

Fast-forward a year later. I started seeing patched-up gameplay clips on TikTok and Twitch, and the game looked way more polished. So I caved. Picked it up, loaded it in—and man, I should’ve jumped in sooner.

Night City Is ALIVE

My first run? Corpo route. Second run? Street Kid. Both were insane in their own way. The mechanics are smooth, and the worldbuilding? On another level. Night City isn’t just big—it’s alive. Every block has something happening. Random encounters, side quests, weird convos, flashy ads—it’s like a city that never shuts up.

Even the driving—usually not my thing in games—was cool here. You’ve got futuristic rides, street bikes, and actual in-game radio stations. Add in the fact that your apartment, outfits, cyberware, and weapons all feel personalized… it’s easy to get lost in this world.

Storylines, Combat & That Final Boss

I loved the branching storylines based on your chosen background. Even though they all eventually merge into the same main story, the beginning paths offer cool perspectives. Dialogue is sharp, voice acting is solid, and yeah—Keanu is in it, so there’s that.

The combat? Clean. Hacking, melee, stealth, long-range—you can build your playstyle however you want. Guns feel weighty, the upgrades are meaningful, and boss fights (well… most of them) are dope. Only thing? The final boss was kind of mid. It needed more tension, more challenge—but hey, everything else made up for it.

Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars

Cyberpunk 2077 went from one of the biggest flops in gaming to one of the cleanest redemption arcs ever. This game is pure cyberpunk fantasy with next-gen quality. And with the Phantom Liberty DLC added in? Even better. You can check out my DLC review [here].

If you haven’t played this yet, now’s the time.
I’d recommend this game to any open-world RPG fan who wants immersion, choice, and chaos in neon.

The post Cyberpunk 2077 – From Bugged Launch to Top-Tier Redemption appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Let me start with this: Lies of P is a top-tier Korean horror-action Soulslike—but it didn’t start that way for me. The first time I picked it up, I got clapped by the intro boss outside Hotel Krat. I put the controller down and thought, “Maybe I’m not as good at Soulslikes as I thought.”

Fast forward 6 months, I came across some Reels and TikToks showing off the combat and boss fights, and I had to give it another shot. Glad I did.

First Boss Down – The Moment It Clicked

Coming back fresh, I finally beat that first boss—and man, it felt so satisfying. That was the turning point. From then on, I was all in. The combat is crisp, the weapon system is deep, and while some boss designs were kinda goofy, they somehow fit the tone and twisted vibe of the game. Others were absolute bangers—Laxasia, King of Puppets, and The Nameless Puppet were straight-up Soulslike greatness.

Combat, Progression & World Design – Souls DNA with a Twist

The combat feels like a perfect fusion of Bloodborne’s aggression and Sekiro’s precision. Timing, stamina, dodging—it all matters. Leveling up your vitality, weapons, and especially your combat rhythm is key. While it’s not fully open-world, the level design is tight and full of smart shortcuts, secret rooms, and lore tucked into every corner. It fits the vibe perfectly—dark, stylish, and full of tension.

And let’s talk graphics—next-gen stunning. The lighting, animation, and character detail? Chef’s kiss.

Replay Value – Platinum Worth the Grind

Once I beat the final boss (after several tries), I immediately started a second and third run—this time for the Platinum Trophy. Totally worth it.

• Some trophies are missable
  
• Some require New Game+
  
• And others depend on dialogue choices

Spoiler alert! The base game has 3 endings, and you’ll need to unlock all three to get that Platinum. Every run felt meaningful, and each ending added new layers to the story.

Post-Game – I Wasn’t Done Yet

Just a few days after grabbing Platinum, I caved and bought the Lies of P DLC. I saw some clips on IG and TikTok and was immediately hyped again. This game wasn’t finished with me. And I’ll say this carefully: Lies of P is a better Pinocchio than Disney’s Pinocchio.

Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars

Lies of P surprised me in the best way. From rage-quitting at the start to chasing down the Platinum Trophy and diving into DLC, it’s become one of my favorite Soulslike experiences.

5/5 Stars! If you love games like Bloodborne and Sekiro, this one needs to be on your list.

Did You Finish Lies of P?

What ending did you get first? Favorite boss? Or did Hotel Krat humble you too? Drop your journey in the comments.

The post Lies of P – A Soulslike Surprise Worth Mastering appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

PlayStation is done with subtle.

With the Hyperpop Collection, PlayStation is pushing PS5 accessories into full-on statement territory. Glossy blacks fading into vivid neon. High-gloss finishes. RGB energy baked straight into the hardware. This isn’t just customization — it’s personality.

Launching March 12, 2026, the Hyperpop Collection introduces three bold new designs for DualSense wireless controllers and matching PS5 console covers.

And yeah… they go LOUD.

Three Styles. One Mood: Hyperpop.

The Hyperpop Collection lets you pick your vibe. Not your favorite color — your track:

Techno Red  

Clean, sharp, futuristic. This one feels like a late-night cyberpunk session with the lights turned low and the bass turned high.

Remix Green

More chaotic, more expressive. For setups that thrive on contrast, motion, and visual energy.

Rhythm Blue

Bold and playful. This one feels alive — perfect if your setup already leans heavy into RGB and color.

Each design starts with glossy black and melts into vibrant neon tones, creating a gradient that feels dynamic instead of static.

Designed to Take Over Your Setup

According to PlayStation’s Color, Material, and Finish design team, this collection was built to dominate your space — not blend into it.

“We’re cranking the volume all the way up with a collection that doesn’t just stand out, it takes over the room.” — Leo Cardoso

The DualSense controllers feature a seamless gradient wrapping around the entire shell, finished with a high-gloss coat that makes the colors pop even harder under light.

“The console covers are also getting the same glow-up, featuring a subtle hint of transparency.”
— Sae Kobayashi

That small touch of transparency? Clean. Modern. Very intentional.

Pricing & Availability

Here’s what you’re looking at:

Hyperpop DualSense Wireless Controllers

• $84.99 USD
• €84.99 / £74.99
• ¥12,480 (incl. tax)

Hyperpop PS5 Console Covers

• $74.99 USD
• €74.99 / £64.99
• ¥11,480 (incl. tax)
• Limited quantities

Pre-Orders & Launch Details

• Pre-orders open: January 16, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM local time
• Where: direct.playstation.com (where available) + select retailers
• Launch date: March 12, 2026

Players in the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg can pre-order directly from PlayStation — with free launch-day delivery on eligible orders.

Level Up With Dann – Final Take

This is PlayStation embracing culture instead of playing it safe.

The Hyperpop Collection isn’t for everyone — and that’s exactly why it works. It’s bold, expressive, and unapologetic. If your setup already screams cyber, neon, or high-energy chaos… this collection will feel right at home.

Minimal setups can sit this one out.
This drop is for players who want their hardware to hit as hard as their gameplay.

March is about to get loud.

The post PlayStation Hyperpop Brings Neon Energy to PS5 appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

I’ve played Nioh 1 and Nioh 2, so jumping into Nioh 3 felt like coming home… but not fully. Something didn’t completely click for me this time. Don’t get me wrong—this is still a strong action RPG. But there are a few things that kept pulling me out of the experience.

Combat Still Hits Hard… But Not Always Clean

Let’s start with what Nioh does best: combat.
It’s still intense, fast, and rewarding. When everything clicks—perfect timing, clean combos, clutch dodges—it feels amazing.

But sometimes? The combos feel a bit off. Like they don’t fully flow the way you expect. And if you’re playing on controller, it can get frustrating real quick.

Inventory Management… A Full-Time Job

This might be my biggest issue with Nioh 3.

• Too much loot
• Too many weapon types
• Constant inventory management

Every few minutes, you’re back in menus sorting gear. It kills the momentum. Instead of staying locked into the action, you’re micromanaging your build non-stop. That part? Not it.

Open World Is a Fresh Move

One thing I did like is the shift to a more open-world structure.
It gives you more freedom to explore, take on missions your way, and just breathe a bit between fights.

Combined with the improved forging system—which is way more user-friendly now—it shows that the devs are trying to evolve the formula. And honestly? That part works.

Repetition Holds It Back

Here’s where it loses points for me.

A lot of the content feels reused from previous games. Same enemy types, similar encounters… it started to feel repetitive after a while. I expected more innovation, especially for a third entry.

Boss fights are a mix:

• Some are and super satisfying to beat
• Others feel repetitive or just annoying

There were moments where I was like: “Do I really have to beat this boss just to move on?”

Graphics & Overall Experience

Visually, the game stays consistent with the Nioh style.
Nothing groundbreaking, but it fits the series. Clean, dark, and focused on gameplay over flashy visuals.

Overall? I still enjoyed the game. It’s a solid experience. But compared to Nioh 2, it didn’t hit the same level for me.

Verdict: 4 out of 5 stars

Nioh 3 brings some solid upgrades with its open-world approach and refined systems, but it struggles with repetition and frustrating inventory management.

Still, if you’re into soulslike games, fast-paced combat, and challenging boss fights, this is definitely worth playing.

Will I go for NG+? Probably not.
But did I enjoy the ride? Yeah… I did.

The post Nioh 3 – Open World Upgrade, But… appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

At first, I wasn’t sure if Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice was for me. Developed by FromSoftware, and I only picked it up two years after launch. I had my doubts—wasn’t a big fan of the graphics at first, and I kept hearing about how brutally difficult it was. But then, I started watching short clips on YouTube and TikTok, and something just clicked. The sound of the katana slashes, the intense combat—it looked too good to ignore.

So I gave it a shot. And wow. What. A. Game.

Mastering the Combat – Sekiro’s Greatest Strength

The first run? Painful. I had zero skills—every boss destroyed me, and I quickly realized this wasn’t like any other action RPG. In Sekiro, you don’t just level up your character—you level up yourself. You have to memorize enemy attacks, time your parries perfectly, and counter at the right moment.

By my second run, something changed. I had mastered the mechanics, and suddenly, Sekiro became one of my all-time favorite games. That feeling when you deflect an enemy’s final strike and land the perfect counter? It’s unmatched.

Platinum Trophy & NG+ – Pushing My Limits

I didn’t stop at just beating the game. I completed all four endings, collected every item, and earned the Platinum Trophy on PS5. But that wasn’t enough—I played Sekiro again on Xbox Series X|S and even finished New Game+. There’s something about this game that keeps pulling me back, no matter how many times I’ve beaten it.

Defeating a Sekiro boss is satisfying—but earning the Platinum Trophy? Next level. This game makes you work for every victory, and that’s what makes it so rewarding. For a different kind of samurai experience, here’s my take on Ghost of Tsushima.

Visuals & Atmosphere – A Work of Art in Motion

At first, I wasn’t sure about Sekiro’s graphics, but they grew on me. The more I played, the more I realized this isn’t just a game—it’s like a moving piece of Japanese fine art. The world feels alive, the environments are stunning, and every area tells a visual story.

Now, I’m even considering playing Sekiro on my Lenovo Steam Deck. If you play a game on every platform, you know you really love that game. That’s exactly how I feel about Sekiro.

The iconic solo pirate adventure returns. Sail the Caribbean as Edward Kenway during the Golden Age of Piracy in this faithfully enhanced remake featuring stunning visuals, upgraded gameplay, and new content. Release date July 9, 2026

Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars

Even after six years, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice remains an absolute masterpiece. The combat is perfect, the challenge is brutal but fair, and the satisfaction of beating a tough boss is unlike any other game. Sekiro easily gets 5/5 stars from me! If you haven’t played it yet, I 100% recommend it.

What About You?

Have you played Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice? How many runs did it take before you mastered it? Let me know in the comments!

The post Sekiro: Shadows Die twice – A Timeless Masterpiece appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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.

Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars

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 Stars! 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!

The post Spider-Man: Miles Morales – A Full-Powered Spidey Experience appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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.

Verdict: 4 out of 5 stars

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.

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.

The post Assassin’s Creed Shadows – Shinobi Meets Samurai in Feudal Japan appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Split Fiction started popping up all over my feed, and the social media hype was real. After digging a bit deeper, I found out it’s from the same developers as It Takes Two—so I already knew I was in for a co-op adventure. And yeah, I played it. And yeah, I get the hype.

Gameplay – Two Dimensions, One Goal

Just like It Takes Two, Split Fiction is a full-on two-player game, but this one adds a cool twist: each player has their own dimension—literally. What I loved the most was how each world is custom-built for that character, but progressing means you have to sync up and help each other out.

You can’t just do your own thing and coast—you really need teamwork, communication, and sometimes patience when things get chaotic (trust me, we had some discussions ). But that’s also what made it fun—laughs, fails, and those moments where you both go “aaah okay we got this now!”

Visuals – Two Worlds, Double the Beauty

Each dimension is visually unique, and honestly, both look amazing. The game switches you between worlds so seamlessly that it’s easy to forget how much design went into it. Whether it’s a neon-lit tech space or a soft nature-driven fantasy zone, each side looks and feels alive.

Story & Co-Op Vibes – Strong Connection

The story is solid, but it’s the core co-op experience that carries this game. You’re not just playing next to someone—you’re actually building the journey together. There were moments where I was stuck, and my partner pulled through—and vice versa. That back-and-forth makes every level feel like a real team victory.

And yep, the challenges are tough. But that’s part of the fun. When you finally beat a level you struggled on, the satisfaction hits hard.

Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars

Split Fiction is beautiful, challenging, and packed with creative co-op mechanics. Whether you’re laughing, arguing, or planning your next move together, it keeps you both hooked the entire time.

Definitely worth the hype, and a must-play for anyone into two-player story-driven games.

Played Split Fiction Yet?

How did you and your partner survive the chaos? Which dimension did you love most? Drop it in the comments—let’s hear your co-op war stories!

The post Split Fiction – Teamwork, Dimensions & Co-Op Chaos appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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.

Verdict: 4 out of 5 stars

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 Stars! 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.

The post Resident Evil Village – Creepy, Chaotic, and Worth Every Bullet appeared first on Level Up With Dann.

When I start a new game, I don’t just look at the graphics or the combat. I ask myself:
“What language should I hear this world in?”

It might sound like a small detail, but for me, the spoken language in a video game can change the whole experience. It’s not about being flashy—it’s about respecting the world the game was built in.

Why I Match the Language to the World

Take Sekiro, for example. A game rooted in feudal Japan, drenched in samurai code and spiritual myth. Playing that in English felt off. Switching to Japanese audio brought it all to life—the honor, the tension, the atmosphere.

Or A Plague Tale: Requiem—a game steeped in medieval French history and scenery. Naturally, I went with French voice-over. Suddenly, the emotion felt more real, the world more grounded. The same goes for Red Dead Redemption, where American English just fits the gritty Wild West vibe, and Black Myth: Wukong, which absolutely sings in Mandarin Chinese—it feels like playing an epic poem.

It’s not about stereotypes. It’s about immersion. Hearing characters speak in a language that fits their world helps me feel like I’m in that world—not just pushing buttons from the outside.

Ghost of Tsushima: My Turning Point

I remember my first playthrough of Ghost of Tsushima. I played it in English. Great voice acting, no doubt—but something didn’t feel right. The second time, I switched to Japanese audio with English subtitles.
That changed everything. The pacing, the tone, even how I interpreted silence.
It just hit deeper.

The Bonus Perk: Language Learning Through Games

I speak five languages, and gaming has helped sharpen them in unexpected ways.
It’s not academic, sure—but on a conversational level, it works.
You pick up expressions, tone, cultural mannerisms. 

It’s not just gameplay—it’s language exposure.
So when I play in a different language, I’m not just learning how to parry or combo—I’m learning how people talk, react, and express in a new tongue.

The Challenge: Subtitles and Focus

The only downside? Reading subtitles while dodging attacks.
It can be tricky. Sometimes you’re so focused on the dialogue, you miss the action—or vice versa. But to me, that’s part of the challenge I actually enjoy.
You’re not just reacting—you’re absorbing. Listening. Paying attention.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the spoken language in a video game isn’t about being fancy or different. It’s about respecting the art and setting. It’s about immersion, culture, and challenge.

If you’ve never tried it, pick a game with strong cultural roots. Switch the language. Add subtitles. Feel the shift. You might find that the game doesn’t just sound better—it means more. Because when a game is built with love for its world, the least I can do is meet it in its native tongue.

The post Choosing the Right Language in Video Games appeared first on Level Up With Dann.