A Few of the Things That Have Us Hooked This Week
Welcome to our regular feature where we talk about the games that have captured our attention recently. This week, Bertie gives in and tries out the time-consuming game Balatro; Jim revisits the visually striking world of Grand Theft Auto 4; and Ed struggles through the challenging gameplay of Sekiro.
Balatro, PS5
So, I finally gave in and decided to play Balatro. It’s currently free with PlayStation Plus, so I figured, why not? I’ve never been a fan of Poker, so I was a bit hesitant at first. I tend to go against the grain and not enjoy what everyone else does, for some reason. Plus, I have a hard time being serious for long periods. The idea of sitting at a table with a poker face for hours sounds like torture to me.
But against my better judgment, I gave it a shot. And surprise, surprise – I actually enjoyed it. I had to look up the meanings of a few poker hands because I didn’t know my flushes from my straights. But once I got the hang of it, I was hooked in about five minutes. I love how easy it is to jump right into games like this. Balatro does a great job of onboarding players in a fun and seamless way, without any waiting around. Now excuse me while I disappear for a few hundred hours.
– Bertie
Grand Theft Auto 4
I’ve been diving back into GTA 4 for a project I’m working on, and I’m reminded of how bold and unique this game is. Most big-budget games tend to aim for a pseudo-photorealistic style, which is fine. But GTA 4 stands out with its own distinctive look – the forever autumn setting enveloping a decaying city in hues of burnt orange, and the neo-noir nights punctuated by bursts of color from city lights.
The game’s visuals perfectly complement its themes, offering a gritty portrayal of the American Dream through the eyes of an immigrant. Niko’s story unfolds in a bleak world with brief moments of triumph and levity, reflected in every detail of Liberty City’s grimy and decaying environment. GTA 4 stays true to its aesthetic of decay and grime, much like the underrated game Kane and Lynch 2: Dog Days, immersing players in an unapologetically dark and uncomfortable experience. Also, let’s not forget the cleverly named stock market in the game – BAWSAQ, which never fails to bring a smile to my face.
– Jim
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, PS4
I can honestly say that Sekiro has pushed me to levels of anger I never knew were possible in a video game. It’s not just frustration; it’s more like a deep existential questioning of why I continue to subject myself to this torture. I’m not enjoying it, but I can’t seem to tear myself away from it.
This is the last major FromSoftware game I have yet to complete, and I’ve attempted it three times already. I’m determined to see it through, despite my struggles. The game’s Japanese horror aesthetic doesn’t resonate with me as much as the dark fantasy of Souls or the gothic vibes of Bloodborne. The combat, focused heavily on parrying, leaves little room for the variety and expression I enjoy in other games. Each boss battle feels like a repetitive struggle, more so than any other game of this kind. But with only the final boss left to defeat (ignoring the Demon of Hatred for now), I’m stubbornly pushing through, unsure if I’m disappointed in the game or in myself.
– Ed
And there you have it, a glimpse into the games that have captured our attention this week. Whether it’s diving into the world of poker, revisiting the gritty streets of Liberty City, or battling through the challenges of Sekiro, each game offers a unique experience that keeps us coming back for more. What have you been playing lately? Let us know in the comments below.
