New Astro Bot Levels

 

 

I took a slight break from streaming and writing for the site, but I'm glad to say that I'm back at it and with me are the five brand new levels added to Astro Bot from February through March. Starting with Tick Tock Shock, this stage gave me quite the string of hassles. Using the power of stopping time, I had to create platforms out of the enemies trying to (and mostly succeeding) end my run. As with all the other stages throughout Astro Bot on the PS5, finally getting to the end was such a satisfying accomplishment. One minor complaint that I have is the type of DLC that we've been seeing with Astro Bot. These "speedrun" stages are fun, bite sized experiences intended to bring the fans back for more and to keep Astro Bot in the limelight, which is perfectly fine. I just wish there was a meatier level like we saw with Aloy, Nathan Drake, Kratos, Ape Escape and LocoRoco. Would love to see a stage based around Flow, Fantavision, Wild Arms, The Legend of Dragoon, LittleBigPlanet or even Dreams. Of course there is the possibility that we see some (or ALL) in a sequel. Fingers crossed. And if you haven't picked up Astro Bot, YOU SHOULD!

My Top 3 Games I Played in 2024

 My Top 3 Games of 2024

2024 was an incredible year for gaming, and I had the pleasure of diving into some truly fantastic titles. Here are my top three games of the year, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

3rd Place: The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel (PS4)

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel is a captivating RPG that takes players on an epic journey through the land of Erebonia. The game excels in storytelling, with a rich narrative that delves deep into the political and social intricacies of its world. The turn-based combat system is both strategic and engaging, allowing for a variety of tactics and character customization. Since playing the game on the PS4, I also got to benefit from the “speed up” feature throughout the game. Eliminating sitting through absurdly long animations for attacks that ultimately didn’t do much damage in the early stages of the game. The characters are well-developed, each with their own backstories and motivations, making it easy to become invested in their journeys. The game’s colorful art style and memorable soundtrack further enhance the immersive experience.

2nd Place: Octopath Traveler 2 (PS5)

Octopath Traveler 2 continues the legacy of its predecessor with its stunning HD-2D graphics and compelling storytelling. OT2 features eight new protagonists, each with their own unique stories and abilities. The game’s combat system carries over key components of the first game such as turn-based mechanics with a boost system, and new ways to combo skills/weapons to offer a satisfying level of depth and strategy. The world of Orsterra is beautifully crafted, with diverse environments and a captivating soundtrack that complements the game’s atmosphere. The intertwining narratives of the characters create a rich tapestry of stories that keep players engaged from start to finish. The 80+ hours spent playing Octopath Traveler 2 was both long enough for me to want to see the end, but also short enough to leave me wanting more.

1st Place: Astro Bot (PS5)

Topping my list is Astro Bot, a delightful platformer that showcases the capabilities of the PS5. This game is a masterclass in level design, with each stage offering creative and innovative challenges. The use of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers adds a new layer of immersion, making every jump, slide, and interaction feel incredibly tactile. Astro Bot’s charming visuals and whimsical soundtrack create a joyful and nostalgic experience that is hard to put down. The game strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and challenge, making it a must-play for gamers of all ages.

These three games provided countless hours of entertainment and left a lasting impression on me. Each one brought something unique to the table, making 2024 a memorable year in gaming. What were your favorite games of the year?

Just 1 More Playthrough - Dragon Age: The Veilguard

 

I've been playing Dragon Age: The Veilguard since release and I've been mostly enjoying the game. It's not quite what I was wanting from the game, but it's coming to together. The banter is my favorite part while travelling around.

Just 1 More Playthrough - Astro Bot

 

And we're rolling! The YouTube channel has been updating quite a bit over the last couple of months and...well...I haven't been doing much here. Honestly, that's entirely on me, but I'm getting that fixed! Starting with the first and many video releases for the site!

Ubisoft Removing Racing Game "The Crew" From Your Digital Library

Ubisoft have announced that racing game "The Crew" is being removed from people's digital paid game collections. So whether you bought it on release day back in 2013 or got it in 2023, it will soon be removed from your digital game library. PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Amazon Luna players are being affected by this. One of the earliest instances of a company removing something from people's downloads list was P.T. The playable teaser for Hideo Kojima's eventually cancelled Silent Hill reboot, called Silent Hills. It was free to download, but it was still shocking that Konami would remove something that had already been added to a person's library.

Obviously, the situation with P.T. for the PS4 is different in regards to The Crew being a title you had to pay for to get. Versus a free download to tease the next installment of Silent Hill. This is a just another example of companies stealing from people.

Introducing "Just Joffing Around"

 

Glad to bring "Just Joffing Around" from YouTube to the website. This will be a continual release, first live streamed on Twitch and then exported to YouTube and here! The premise is very simple, just playing games and chatting with my best friend John on all sorts of topics. Mostly about games. Surprise!

Please make sure to subscribe to the Twitch and YouTube channels as it does help me out a lot! We'll try wrapping up Gears of War 2 soon and then move onto Halo 3 which originally released on the Xbox 360. However we'll be playing through Game Pass on the Master Chief Collection.

Final Fantasy XVI (PS5) Review

Final Fantasy XVI Review: A Mixed Bag of Fantasy and Action

Final Fantasy XVI is the latest installment in the iconic RPG series, and it brings some major changes to the gameplay and the story. The game follows Clive Rosfield, a young prince who becomes a warrior of vengeance after a tragic event that shatters his life. Along with his companions Jill and Cid, Clive embarks on a journey across the land of Valisthea, a realm where magic and technology coexist under the influence of five giant crystals. Along the way, he will face enemies, allies, and secrets that will challenge his beliefs and his destiny.

The game is a drastic departure from the traditional turn-based combat system of the previous titles, and instead adopts a fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay that requires quick reflexes and strategic choices. The combat is fluid and responsive, and allows you to shift easily between your sword skills, spells, limit breaks and abilities on the fly. You can also summon powerful creatures called Eikons, which are manifestations of the crystals’ power, to aid you in battle. The combat is one of the highlights of the game, as it offers a lot of variety and challenge, and makes you feel like a badass hero.

However, the game also suffers from some flaws that prevent it from reaching its full potential. The story is ambitious and complex, but also messy and confusing at times. The game tries to juggle multiple plot threads and characters, but fails to give them enough depth and development. Some of the twists and revelations feel rushed or forced, and some of the motivations and actions of the characters are questionable or inconsistent. The game also lacks some of the charm and humor that the series is known for, and instead opts for a darker and more mature tone that sometimes feels out of place.

The game also has some technical issues that affect the performance and the presentation. The game looks gorgeous and detailed, with stunning environments and character models, but ultimately there is a lack of color. Some splashes of color would have been nice, but I suppose they were going for that darker/medieval fantasy. The game also has some problems with the camera and the lock-on system, which can make the combat frustrating and chaotic. The voice acting and the soundtrack are highlights of the game, but some of the dialogue can be lifeless at times and cheesy at others.

Final Fantasy XVI is a game that tries to do a lot of things, but does not excel at any of them. It is a game that has a lot of potential, but also some serious flaws. I ended up walking away from the game after completion with disappointment. Every time I thought there would be a great story revelation, it just never quite got there. Final Fantasy XVI is worth checking out, but I felt bummed by the end.

Score: 6/10

J1ML 2023 Game of the Year

It's that time of year again, the year end recap of the games I completed throughout the year. This was the first time in a very long time that I actually completed some games! And I nearly completed a game every month! So that's like a two-fer right there! Now this list will contain a game that I played (and completed) years ago, but got another playthrough in 2023. So, anywho, let's dive right into my Top 5 games I completed in 2023!

5. Vampire Survivors

For a game that appears to be super simple, don't let the cover deceive you. Vampire Survivors has an calming/hectic feel to it. I played through Game Pass and honestly, I don't believe I would have spent the money to get this game when it came out. After playing it though, I had to support the developers directly and purchased it. Along with the DLC packs.

4. For the King

Corey and I have always hunted for good couch co-op games. Just something to play together, that has meaty gameplay hooks, and well. For The King delivers in spades. Seriously this game will challenge even the most hardcore of you. Random battles, procedurally generated maps and dungeons, random world bosses; it's great alongside a partner.

3. Gears of War

Released waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back towards the launch year of the Xbox 360, my close friend John (owner of mybrainongames.com) played and beat this bad boy. Excellent experience for anyone looking for a couch co-op third person shooter. The ultimate edition is what we just knocked off the list again and it was FIIIIIINE! Grab a friend and take the fight to the Horde!

2. TMNT: Shredder's Revenge

Another great game to play co-op with one or a group of friends. The trophies/achievements aren't too difficult so it's good for those achievement hunters out there and honestly it's just wonderful to have a classically-styled side-scrolling beat 'em up for modern consoles that is so well done. Right up there with Streets of Rage 4. 

1. Sea of Stars

Alright! Within just 1st hour of playtime, Sea of Stars became the frontrunner here. Valere and Zale aren't the strongest characters in their own, but my God are they great with the ensemble cast. The star of the show is, of course, Garl. The kid does some INCREDIBLY heavy lifting, but fits the character and story perfectly. Someone that wants to go above and beyond for his friends and loved ones. And the way every character weaves in and out of each other's personal journey's is fantastic. This is a wonderful love letter to how great a game can be, even if it doesn't have the graphics of a Triple-A game where we can see the individual pores on the characters. I honestly can not think of a bad thing to say here. The combat is simple, but challenging and all the more rewarding once you have figured out the "Lock" system. Every place you visit is so unique and full of personality that once you've wrapped up everything in that area, you WANT to come back.

OH! And I can't name Sea of Stars my GAME OF THE YEAR without mentioning how GREAT the soundtrack is! Truly Eric Brown's work here holds up well to my favorite composer of all time, Nobuo Uematsu. Seriously, Sea of Stars soundtrack could stand with Uematsu's prime Final Fantasy days. Seriously, buy Sea of Stars, play the game, buy the soundtrack and bask in the absolute euphoria of emotions here.

New PS5 and PS5 Digital Versions Announced

 

Sony has done it! Speculation had been running rampant about Sony's plans for a revision to the original PlayStation hardware and here we are. In fact, it's almost right on cue. Typically Sony rolls out a "slim" model of their consoles around the 3-year mark and the PS5 really is no different. Coming in at over 30% smaller by volume and according to Sony, 18% and 24% lighter than the previous Standard and Digital variants, the new PS5 models will be hitting the shelves just in time for the Holiday 2023 shopping season.

The models will launch with a matte white bottom and a glossy top, and will be package with a vertical stand (the horizontal stand is sold separately). Retailing for $499 for the Standard and $449 for the Digital version. Effectively the increasing the price of the digital edition by $50. There will also be a UHD Blu-Ray drive sold separately so, if you wanted to turn your Digital Edition into a "Standard Edition" you can do so for $79.99.

As many have pointed out, there is no price cut to the system. Even with the introduction of these smaller versions. And the stand that the original PS5s launched with is going away in favor of the vertical style, so if you prefer your system "laying down" it's going to cost you extra. So there are steps Sony has done to cut their costs, but are not passing those savings onto potential buyers. It is nice to know that physical isn't being phased out as we saw with some Xbox Series X mock-ups of a revision on that front.

Head over to the PlayStation Blog to get all the specs of the new revisions and get your plans ready for this holiday season!

And We're Back!

Make sure you've got our channels on Twitch and YouTube followed!

Final Fantasy XVI and Sea of Stars are the main focus right now on both, live playthroughs on Twitch and then uploaded to YouTube the following day!

PlayStation Increasing PS Plus Prices

Tucked away in the September Plus games PlayStation Blog post, Sony announced that Plus prices are increasing by 33% across all tiers.

Here are the new prices for PlayStation Plus 12-month subscription plans.

PlayStation Plus Essential 12-Month Subscription
79.99 USD | 71,99 Euro | 59.99 GBP | 6,800 Yen

PlayStation Plus Extra 12-Month Subscription
134.99 USD | 125,99 Euro | 99.99 GBP | 11,700 Yen

PlayStation Plus Premium 12-Month Subscription
159.99 USD | 151,99 Euro | 119.99 GBP | 13,900 Yen

The new prices for the 12-Month subscription will remain at a discounted rate when compared to purchasing the 1-Month or 3-Month subscriptions over a 12-month period.

It should be no surprise that the discourse surrounding this has not been positive. I've yet to see anyone that has tried to claim this is a good look. Especially considering that Microsoft is just two days away from launching Starfield, the biggest release from them and Bethesda since the launch of the Series platforms. Plus just a week away from the release of Spiderman 2. The fact that they tucked it to the bottom of the games update instead of making a dedicated Blog post for it...says volumes.

Sony Making A Play on Audio

Playstation is set to acquire Audeze, a company specializing in audio technology for headphones. Audeze currently manufactures high-end headphones, including gaming headsets. The company has developed it's own audio tech, such as planar magnetic technology. While Audeze will be joining the ranks at SIE (Sony Interactive Entertainment); it'll continue to operate independently.

Sony's Hideaki Nishino in a statement on the deal says: "Audeze is a premier brand for headphones, and this acquisition highlights Sony Interactive’s focus on innovation and providing the best audio experience to PlayStation players," he says. "We’re excited to bring Audeze’s expertise into the PlayStation ecosystem, building on the great strides we’ve made with PlayStation 5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech and the Pulse 3D wireless headset."

"Sony Interactive provides Audeze with a unique opportunity to scale our business, as we continue with our mission to deliver best-in-class headphones to recording professionals, audiophiles, and gamers,” said Sankar Thiagasamudram, CEO at Audeze. “We’re also looking forward to contributing to Sony Interactive’s efforts to take PlayStation audio experiences to the next level.”

Read more about the acquisition at BusinessWire News

PlayStation Portal Confirmed

Formally known as Codename "Project Q" back in May of this year, we now have confirmation from Sony that Project Q will be launching as "PlayStation Portal" at $199. Alongside the previously announced earbuds (now called Pulse Elite) and the lossless over the ear headset (now known as Pulse Explore). This is a PlayStation "remote play" device powered by Sony's "PlayStation Link" technology. Offering up lossless connection so that you can play and hear games played from your PS5 from anywhere in the home. PlayStation Portal will connect remotely to your PS5 over Wi-Fi, so you’ll be able to quickly move from playing on your PS5 to your PlayStation Portal. PlayStation Portal can play supported games that are installed on your PS5 console and use the Dualsense controller.

Pulse Explore features a retractable boom mic, AI-powered noise rejection capable of filtering out any background noise while playing. And charging can be done with the included hanging wireless charger. Explore launches at $199.

Pulse Elite earbuds feature dual microphones, along with the AI-powered noise rejection that the Explore also has and comes with a nifty sliding charging case. Elite launches at $149.

PlayStation Link allows these audio options to be used on PC, MAC, PS5 and PlayStation Portal. One thing that is pretty cool about this setup; you can wirelessly connect to the PlayStation Portal, while having the included PS Link USB adapter plugged into a PS5, MAC or PC and seamlessly switch between devices. 

More information can be found on the PlayStation Blog

Xbox Introduces New Velocity Green Controller

 

This new Xbox Series X|S controller is on sale now for $65. Which comes in $5 cheaper than the other Xbox controllers. Plus if you're wanting to get a "family" of Xbox green devices together, Razer has a matching charging stand for a cool $40 or you could go for the Xbox hoodie for $65

Legend of Dragoon Coming To PS4 & PS5

Sony has confirmed on the PlayStation Blog that The Legend of Dragoon is coming to PS4 and PS5. This release will have the PS4/PS5 "up do" treatment; meaning, up rendering, rewind, quick save, custom video filters and possibly even trophy support. However, trophy support was not mentioned. PS1 titles have had trophy support added to them though, so fingers crossed this is in the pipeline.

I'm a huge fan of LoD, along with a very passionate fan base, we are all hoping this means bigger things are right around the corner! Makes it happen Sony!

GamerVision - Bayonetta 3 News | Sony & Microsoft | G4TV Dead Again

G4TV has closed it's doors again, there is all sorts of controversy surrounding the release of Bayonetta 3 and there is also the war between Sony and Microsoft... SO MUCH TO COVER!

Please make sure to like and subscribe to the various platforms that Just 1 More Level is on.

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GamerVision 35 - Mario Stomps His Way To The Movies | Google Kills Stadia

Tony and Jeff dives deep into the Mario Movie and discuss if Chris Pratt really sounds like Mario. Make sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel to guarantee you stay up to date on all things Just 1 More Level!

YouTube.com/Just1MoreLevel

PLUS! If you're interested in live streamed games! We have a Twitch channel as well. Head over to Twitch.tv/j1ml to watch us play a bunch of RPGs!

GamerVision 34 - TGS 2022 | Xbox Game Pass Massive Japan Push

Getting the website caught up on all the episodes of GamerVision that hadn't made it's way over! Enjoy this video from a simpler time.

Please subscribe to the YouTube channel and Twitch to help us continue growing! We love putting content together.

GamerVision 33 - PS5 Price Increases | Game Pass Getting Stronger

GamerVision is the YouTube show about all things games, mostly ramblings about what we're playing or excited for. Hosted by J1ML's own Jeff and Procedurally Generated's enabler of chaos, Tony. we are back to talk about all sorts of big topics that have hit us. Sony increasing the price of the PS5, Amazon's launch of The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power and just how powerful Game Pass is about to be after the Activision Blizzard deal is finalized.

Make sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel to guarantee you never miss out on the shows, news and events taking place within the network of Just 1 More Level!

PlayStation Releases "Feel a New Real" Trailer For PS VR2