17th May
Hello there! It’s time to explore the games that have recently piqued our interest. This week, Bertie has rediscovered Oblivion after an almost twenty-year hiatus; Marie has made the radical decision to wipe her Animal Crossing save of 300 hours; and Donlan has returned to share insights about a clever maze game that promises to captivate.
Which games have captured your attention lately?
If you’re curious about our previous features, be sure to visit our What We’ve Been Playing archive.
The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered, PS5
What compels us to revisit the remastered versions of classic favorites? This question has surfaced for me, particularly with the return of Oblivion. I loved this title—or perhaps “loved” is too mild a word—I spent a great deal of time in its world. Despite some imperfections—how many caves can one truly explore?—the game has a cherished spot in my memories. With its revival, I’m reminded of my complicated feelings regarding the experience.
Nevertheless, the thrill of revisiting this classic is undeniable. The vast landscapes and intricate gameplay have lingered in my thoughts. I wavered at first due to the dated graphics, but the remaster revamps everything. It’s invigorated and ready for adventures once more.
So far, my experience has been uplifting. I’ve navigated through the tutorial scenes—the prison, the sewers, and that unforgettable moment stepping out into a world of possibilities. The gameplay is smooth, provoking that deep nostalgia reminiscent of when I first began my journey in this realm. It’s a stunning recreation of the Oblivion that I hold dear.
However, I’ve heard hints about potential issues later in the game. Tom Morgan from Digital Foundry cautioned me regarding possible declines in performance as I progress. But for now, I’m wholeheartedly enjoying my return to this beloved universe.
-Bertie
Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Switch
After dedicating nearly 300 hours to crafting my Animal Crossing island during lockdown, I took the shocking plunge to erase it entirely. The instant regret washed over me as I stared at my new, empty landscape, devoid of the vibrant structures and services that once thrived there—just Tom Nook trying to pitch his latest ventures.
Yet, upon reflection, I began to realize that those hours had not been spent in vain. My previous island became a testing ground, laying the foundation for my ambitious vision this time. This restart wasn’t just a spur of the moment choice; it has emerged as one of my finest strategies in the game. While I miss having easy access to features like Harv’s Island, this new beginning has sparked a deeper level of strategic thinking regarding placement and layout.
With the recent upgrades to Nook’s Cranny and the Able Sisters’ shop freshly unveiled, I find myself pondering their placements with careful calculation. I’m committed to avoiding impulsive spending on relocations, ensuring that every decision is intentional this time.
This restart presents endless possibilities for envisioning my island anew. Will I design a sanctuary filled with dense forests or craft a quaint seaside town? Perhaps I can achieve both by creating distinct sections! The haphazard design of my previous island is a fleeting memory, lacking the uniqueness and character that I now aim to instill—a mere experiment gone wrong.
What I once believed to be a monumental blunder has transformed into a remarkable decision. I’ve reignited my enthusiasm for Animal Crossing and am eager to embark on this new journey.
-Marie
20 Small Mazes, PC
The game 20 Small Mazes is akin to discovering a delightful treasure chest. Not only is it free, but its creativity is also abundantly generous. The game presents a series of mazes designed like scattered papers on a desk, inviting players to explore them in refreshing and engaging ways.
Occasionally, I find myself reminiscing about this charming creation and returning to it. Today, I became absorbed in a maze that featured three overlapping paths, each in a different color, leading to distinct routes. The goal is to progress as far as possible on one path before switching to a new color and continuing the adventure.
This innovative concept has the potential to develop into something spectacular, reminiscent of the ingenuity found in titles like Mighty Flip Champs! Yet here it stands, a free gem brimming with creative flair.
-Donlan
