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We’re back on the PS1 this week for a landmark achievement in gaming. Not only are we celebrating the revered first installment of the Silent Hill series, but we are also celebrating my first ever playthrough of the game! ‘First ever?’ I hear you longtime readers of my pen say. ‘But you are the king of survival horrors on the Play Station One!’ I hear you also say. Well, before I jump into any kind of review, it’s important to mention just how rare this game actually is and how hard it was to get my hands on it finally. This game easily goes for at least $80 AUD ($55 USD) secondhand and on retro gaming stores. The sheer scarcity of this game is a testament to its place in horror gaming. Not only is it a strong influence on future horror titles to come, but it is regarded by some as the penultimate culmination of all the survival horror titles before it during the genre’s boom on the PS1. Konami set out to create a Resident Evil of their own in 1999, and what they delivered was a completely unique and unforgetably terrifying experience that would birth a devoted cult following and some of gaming’s most memorable moments.

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What the fog is going on in this town?

The player inhabits the character of widower Harry Mason who has come to the town of Silent Hill on a vacation with his daughter, Cheryl. But when the game starts, Harry crashes his car and when he wakes up he finds that Cheryl is missing. Thus begins Harry’s adventure (ordeal?) in the abandoned and ever-foggy town of Silent Hill… that is also overrun with monsters for no actual reason (they might be a manifestation of a nightmare, but who’s to say?).

The plot is simple, and thank Samael, because the lore and backstory that encompasses the town and explains why it is the way it is is thorough, deep, and multi-faceted. This is where the game shines in that aspect. Diary entries are far and few between to fill in story gaps, and it isn’t until the final third of the game that the player is clued into what is happening, other than the obvious fact that there is some kind of demon rite, culty aspect to the story. The fact that the game leaves the whereabouts of the people, the reason why the town is half-foggy half-iron-hellscape, and if any of the strange and abstract horrors are actually real, enhances the experience by prompting the player to fill in the gaps with their imagination and interpretation. As for the actual narrative, it serves more the purpose to take Harry to spooky locations like a demon-amusement park, an abandoned school, and a disgusting hospital.

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Non-descript monsters galore!

As is the way with survival horror, much of the game is built on exploration, puzzle solving and combat. Interestingly, Silent Hill does not challenge the player to manage inventory, likely due to Konami’s interest in distancing themselves from Capcom. And they do! While the game does feature puzzles and key item collection, it isn’t set up so much in the escape room way that Resident Evil is thanks to Silent Hill‘s semi-open world experience. Instead of a mansion to explore, the entire town of Silent Hill is your mansion, and within that is the aforementioned mini-mansions like the school and hospital. Since Harry has an entire town to be able to traverse, he is generally very fast moving, and so are his enemies.

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The game is not a zombie game, it’s a supernatural horror, and as such the enemies are very not of this world. Harry comes armed with a variety of useless melee weapons and some uninspired and difficult to fire guns to fight against cockroaches, dogs, big-clawed moles, grasshopper lizards, and I think gorillas, that all keep him on his toes. Aside from the end boss and the possessed nurses, many of the game’s enemies and bosses are quite lazy in design and don’t really fit in with the world, which I felt detracted from the experience instead of enhancing it in the abstract horror way you’d expect of the psychological horror Silent Hill is founded on.

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Drag me to hell and back, and then to hell again, and back one more time

The strongest aspect to the Silent Hill experience is the atmosphere and the various horror elements it is built on. Due to the limit of the PlayStation One’s processing power, and due to the exciting fact that this game is rendered entirely in-game (not a pre-rendered 2D background or asset in sight!), means that the player can only ever see a few metres ahead of them at any given time. This limitation is the explanation for the game’s ever-present fog and darkness and serves as such an unsettling source of atmosphere for the game that the town is synonymous with its fog now. In conjunction, Harry carries a radio with him that has the benefit of crackling softly when an enemy is nearby heightening the eeriness of the fog evermore.

Conversely, the hellscape that Harry is brought to again and again warps the town into a strange and bloody iron fortress that is so grotesque and filled with such disturbing imagery that it is hard to ever wipe the mind of the impacting PS1 graphics. But none of this would work so well if it weren’t for the soundtrack that is most times atmospheric and at the same time avant-garde in its atonality and use of unconventional instrumentation, leaving the player deeply rattled the whole way through. And the times that the game isn’t trying to drive the player insane with its mind-melting dimension swaps and spooky atmospheres, the title is home to some of the most beautiful and melancholic arrangements I’ve ever heard from a video game (Lisa Garland, I’m looking at you).

Good + ending

This game is good. It’s good plus. It’s great. It’s a classic. It has everything going for it, especially its unique use of supernatural and psychological horror that was relatively unseen until its debut in gaming and its visionary new game plus system combined with multiple endings leading to plenty of replayability. But it’s a very serious game. It is dark and grim and rooted in tragedy. Fans of the series know that the game does have a few hidden silly moments, but that was probably my least favourite aspect of the game. It is unrelenting in its depressive tone and the game feels hopeless, and for me at times it lead the game to feel unfun. Overall it was enjoyable and was a fantastic horror experience, and the fact that the game actually made me feel hopeless should be a massive plus but it did make the drive to finish the game difficult. Outside of this and my opinion on the uninspired enemies, this game is perfect and is a must-play for all horror officianados. Four Cthulhus out of five. More to be read here. 4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

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Dive into Adventure: A Comprehensive Review of the Pirate Borg RPG

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All images courtesy of Free League

Ahoy, ye landlubbers and aspiring pirates! Embarking on a journey with Pirate Borg, we dive headfirst into the treacherous waters of the Dark Caribbean, where sea monsters lurk and myths come alive. This pirate RPG, seeping with Lovecraftian horror and naval combat, is no ordinary roleplaying game—it’s an adventure set during the Golden Age of Piracy, promising dark, supernatural escapades.

Set your sails to explore dungeons deep below the taverns, navigate treacherous vessels, and face off against horrific sea monsters. Pirate Borg isn’t just a game; it’s a toolbox for crafting your own legends on the high seas, using the Mork Borg system to fuel tales of mystery, brutality (and rum!), and survival against all odds.

With its roots firmly planted in the Mörk Borg ruleset, Pirate Borg offers a unique blend of eerie tales and turbulent seas, compatible with both the award-winning MÖRK BORG RPG and easily hacked for any tabletop RPG. You don’t need to have played Mörk Borg before, but if you have played, you will see a few familiar mechanics, and some new spins on them. This game, designed for those who dare to sail the haunted seas, is a gateway to untold stories filled with undead mariners and cursed treasures, available for plunder from Free League Publishing.

Core Gameplay and Mechanics

Alright, mates, let’s dive right into the heart of Pirate Borg and talk gameplay and mechanics, the real meat of this pirate feast! Trust me, it’s as juicy as a seared steak on the open sea.

Character Creation: You’ve got a smorgasbord of character classes to pick from – think Brute, Buccaneer, or even a spooky Haunted Soul (more on Haunted Souls later!). Rolling for your pirate’s abilities is a breeze with just a few tables, and before you know it, you’re decked out with starting gear, a weapon, and maybe even a fancy hat. It’s quick, painless, and you’re ready to face death (which happens a lot) in no time.

I think this is a primary strength of Free League. You don’t get bogged down in creating your character like other systems (I’m looking at you AD&D 2nd edition!). This means if you die..well..take a sip and churn another sheet out. It also means you can start newbies with little prep time.

Simple yet vast, character creation is a breeze with random tables guiding ye through attributes, gear, and peculiar flaws. Takes but 10-15 minutes, yet every pirate emerges unique.

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Haunted Souls in Pirate Borg

In the world of Pirate Borg, Haunted Souls are spectral entities that inhabit the game’s universe, each with its own unique backstory and abilities. Not only can you encounter Haunted Souls in the game, but you can be one! There are two basic methods for becoming a Haunted Soul:

  1. Create one directly as your first character (GM Willing). If you go this route not only do you pick (or random) your Haunted Soul type (Yes, there are multiple types!) but you also see what class they are. It’s a two-fer!
  2. Create one upon death (GM Willing). When you die, you can come back as the undead! This way will let character play without trying to introduce a whole new pirate to the mix. I see this as a clever mechanic to keep the game flowing and even add more spice into the mix!

In the Navy!!

This reminded me of the difference between versions of Assassin’s Creed. Some of the ship combat design is well thought yet straight forward. I like how the system can be used so you are on a ship (along with all piratey things) but you don’t need to go on a ship to have an adventure. Although, to play Pirate Borg without as much as stepping foot on a ship might end you up in Davey Jones’ locker (the Monkee will feast!)

Naval Combat & Exploration: Ahoy, the real treasure of Pirate Borg! With over a dozen ships at your disposal, you’re set to conquer the seas. Combat is a slick affair, with the captain steering the ship into glory while the crew hustles with their duties. And let’s not forget the thrill of exploring uncharted islands and deciphering treasure maps. The game’s sandbox nature means you’re in for a unique adventure every time you play.

Ship-to-ship combat is a beast of its own. Think miniatures game on the high seas, with hex grids for tracking and character sheets for ships. Aye, your vessel has stats and abilities, making naval encounters a thrilling affair.

The Dread of Ship Combat: Here’s where the rubber meets the road, or rather, where the cannonball meets the ship. Combat is a high-stakes game of rolling d20s for attacks and defenses, with a hefty dose of strategy thrown in during naval battles. Expect to lose a few mates along the way, as character mortality is as common as finding rum at a pirate’s lair. But hey, that’s the life of a pirate, right? High risk, high reward! By the way, there is a modifier used for PC vs Ship, meaning if a player character takes a gun and shoots a ship, not a lot of damage is done. However, if a ship shoots a cannon at a character, well…

We’re out of Rum?! NOOOOO!!!

  • Alchemy, Sea Shanties, and Devil’s Luck (oh my!):
    • Alchemy ain’t just for landlubber wizards; Pirate Borg introduces an alchemy system for concocting potions or maybe even poisons, or even better–Grog n Rum!
    • Sea shanties offer more than a morale boost; they provide mechanical benefits, proving once again that a pirate’s best weapon might just be their voice. Like seriously–there are sea shanties that you have to sing to provide boosts or banes!
    • Lastly, the Devil’s Luck mechanic allows for re-rolling dice, dealing max damage, or dodging critical hits, proving that sometimes, the sea gods do favor the bold (or the lucky).

So, batten down the hatches and prepare for a game that’s as unforgiving as the sea itself but rewarding for those daring enough to embrace its chaos. With Pirate Borg, ye aren’t just playing a game; ye’re living the pirate life, risks and all!

The Sandbox and the Random Gens

Stepping into the world of Pirate Borg, you’re not just dipping your toes into some lukewarm kiddie pool of pirate adventures; oh no, you’re plunging headfirst into the chilling depths of the Dark Caribbean. This ain’t your grandma’s pirate tale, folks. We’re talking a setting so grim, even the bravest of souls might think twice before setting sail. Imagine a world where the Golden Age of Piracy meets a nightmare buffet of undead sailors, cursed riches, and eldritch horrors that would make even Davy Jones lock his locker and throw away the key.

  • The Curse of Skeleton Point & Black Coral Bay Adventures: These aren’t just any old treasure hunts. “The Curse of Skeleton Point” is like the ultimate pirate sandbox, offering nearly 40 pages of challenges, memorable NPCs, and a vibe so hardcore it’ll have you checking under your bed for zombie sailors. And “Black Coral Bay”? Picture this: supernatural beasts, mysterious temples, and an open-world tropical island that’s as inviting as it is deadly. Both adventures serve up a full plate of high-seas hijinks and horror, perfect for both newbies and seasoned pirate RPG veterans.
  • Random Generators Galore: Ever wanted to captain a ship named “The Scurvy Seadog” or find yourself hauling a cargo of, I don’t know, haunted coconuts? Pirate Borg’s got you covered with random generators for vessel class and names, mundane and special cargo, and even plot twists that’ll make M. Night Shyamalan nod in approval. It’s like the game’s saying, “Hey, why settle for a mundane adventure when you can have an epic one?” Plus, with the theater of the mind gameplay, your imagination’s the limit. So, grab your hat, polish your hook, and get ready to face off against hordes of zombie sailors and eldritch terrors in search of Ash, the ultimate pirate prize.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Diving into Pirate Borg is akin to setting sail on choppy, monster-infested waters; it’s a whirlwind of high stakes and lurking dangers, blended with a hefty dose of supernatural intrigue. From the riveting character creation to the adrenaline-pumping naval combat and dark, haunting visuals, the game carves out a niche in the RPG realm that’s unmistakably thrilling. It embodies the perilous allure of piracy while wrapping players in a cloak of shadowy tales and cursed treasure. Through every cannon blast and eerie encounter, the game reinforces the grim, yet electric atmosphere of the Dark Caribbean, ensuring that players remain glued to their seats, eyes wide with anticipation.

Did I mention you can grind the bones of the dead and get down with your inner Keith Richards?

What makes Pirate Borg not just an RPG but an immersive experience is its ability to balance the brutality of pirate life with the captivating essence of dark fantasy. The game invites players to not just witness, but partake in a world where every choice could lead to riches or ruin.

In the end, by the powers of the Elder Gods, Pirate Borg does more than just carry the torch from Mörk Borg; it lights up the cannon for a whole new adventure. With its more detailed mechanics and captivating themes, it’s a treasure trove waiting to be explored. So, grab yer compass and set sail into the unknown, for Pirate Borg promises a voyage like no other. Of course, I might be biased since our logo and ratings system would fit right in the game. 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

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Texas Chainsaw Massacre Board Game: A Chilling Adventure from Trick or Treat Studios

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Box of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre by Trick or Treat Studios. Leatherface with a chainsaw features and screaming people in the background

Diving into the world of horror-themed board games, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre game emerges as a thrilling adaptation of the iconic 1974 movie, designed to captivate fans of the franchise. Crafted for 1-4 players aged 14 and up, this game promises a spine-tingling experience of 45-60 minutes, where strategy, luck, and a strong nerve are key to escaping the grasp of the notorious Sawyer family.

With its unique, story-driven ending and an intriguing objective system that enhances replayability, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game stands out as a must-have for both avid gamers and horror enthusiasts alike. Offering a blend of beautifully crafted game tokens, map, and the creepy flesh bag it provides an immersive dive into a world of suspense, making it a standout addition to the collection of any board game aficionado.

GEN CON 2023 Experience

Ol’ Jimbo was lucky to run into the Trick or Treat Studios booth once again at Gen Con. Ok, so he has a permanent quest to find the booth each year after seeing the fantastic designs, masks, and board game concepts from that first magical moment of ‘WTF HORROR HEAVEN IS THIS?’.

Trick or Treat Studio’s group has a decent sized demo area with great staff on hand to answer questions and give you a run-through. Part of the magic of Gen Con is seeing game producers like Trick or Treat Studios bring life to their games and give each person a ‘instant new friend for life’ feel. I really enjoyed my time at their booth talking and playing with Joe Stoken. If I can ever find my iCloud drive photos (oh, Apple…we used to be so tight!) I’ll have some of the footage coming out on our YouTube channel.

If you do get a chance to get to GenCon this year, you need to check out their booth. I know they are my first stop, and soon you will know why they should be yours, too. (Quick note: When I was putting the link to their website in this review, I see they have pre-order available for GHOSTBUSTERS!!! Holy crow! I think my credit card just squeeled! You have to check their site out https://trickortreatstudios.com/)

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Overview of Trick or Treat Studios

Let me tell ya, Trick or Treat Studios is not just any run-of-the-mill company. These folks are the real deal when it comes to spooking the bejeezus out of you, and their Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game? It’s like they’ve channeled the spirit of Leatherface himself into a box!

  • What’s the Deal?: First off, this game’s all about teamwork. You and your pals band together to dodge Leatherface and his creepy family. It’s like thanksgiving at your uncle’s house…ermm…I mean a horror movie you get to live out. And the best part? You can go solo if your friends are too chicken. This really was a game clincher for me. As someone who grew up 35 minutes by car away from his nearest friend, having a game to play on my own AND with friends means I can enjoy this every day. It brings me back to my childhood in multiple ways and I wished more games had a solo mode for us (especially given what happened in the pandemic)
  • The Feels: Now, let’s talk immersion. Ever heard of the “Hideous Bag”? It’s this gnarly sack where you draw tokens that decide your fate and Leatherface’s moves. It’s tactile, it’s suspenseful – it’s like you’re really rummaging through some dark, forbidden place. It is also a great conversation starter. I am pretty sure as soon as we saw that at the demo, my wallet leapt to my hands.
  • The Gang’s All Here: This game’s got character – literally. You’re not just dodging Leatherface; Grandpa, the Cook, and the Hitchhiker are out to get you too. It’s a full-on family reunion from hell.

And before you ask – yes, it’s all about escaping in a van or ending up on meat hooks. Grim, I know. But hey, that’s the charm of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game. Trick or Treat Studios has outdone themselves, making a game that’s not just a plaything but a dive into horror lore. So, grab your game face, and let’s survive the night!

Game Mechanics and Player Experience

Diving headfirst into the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game, you’re not just playing; you’re living a horror flick, but with the luxury of popcorn breaks. Here’s the lowdown on what makes this game a bloody good time:

  • Press-Your-Luck Mechanics: Feeling lucky, punk? The game’s all about drawing tokens from the Hideous Bag. You’re hunting for keys and gas, but pull three Leatherface tokens, and it’s game over, man. It’s a thrilling gamble that keeps you on your toes. This mechanic keeps the game fresh and adds something that dice throwers can’t manipulate (we know who we are…you know, the 6 is the other side of the 1, so if you have the skills you can easily…SHHHHH I’ve said too much!).
  • Character Roles & Abilities: Choose your fighter – each of the 1-4 players picks a character from the iconic 1974 film, rocking unique abilities. Whether you’re the brains, brawn, or just insanely lucky, your role is crucial in outmaneuvering Leatherface and his gruesome gang.
  • Sawyer Family Shenanigans: It ain’t just Leatherface you’re dodging. Grandpa, the Cook, and the Hitchhiker are on the prowl, each adding their spice of horror to the game. And let’s not forget the unique gating system for the family that ups the ante as the Sawyer family’s pursuit intensifies.

So, buckle up, buttercup. Whether you’re strategizing with pals or braving it solo, this game’s a rollercoaster ride through the Texas countryside – minus the actual risk of ending up on a meat hook.

Artwork and Design Elements

Stepping into the grim world of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game, the artwork and design elements are a horror aficionado’s dream come true, meticulously crafting an atmosphere that’s as chilling as it is captivating. Here’s a deep dive into the visual feast that awaits:

  • Faithful to the Original: The game’s artwork nails the grungy, sepia-toned aesthetic of the 1974 classic film. From the board designed to mirror the eerie Slaughter family property to the detailed components, it’s like stepping right into the movie. I won’t mention other games here–but let’s just say Trick or Treat Studios blows them all out of the water. This game is the Hamlet’s dad and all the other versions are Claudius–ohhh bet you didn’t think I’d be whipping out them Shakespearean insults now wud ye?
  • A Closer Look at the Components:
    • Character and Fam Standees: The pack includes artful recreations of the movie characters, bringing Leatherface and his macabre family to life on your table.
    • Horror in Detail: The draw bag, mimicking human skin, and a diner-style food tray as the game tray, amplify the thematic horror experience. Seriously this bag has to be felt to be believed.
  • Immersive Experience: The game’s design doesn’t just pay homage to the film; it plunges players into the heart of its terror. Every aspect of the game is designed to enhance the horror and suspense, making for an unforgettable gaming experience.

This board game isn’t just about strategy and survival; it’s a journey into the heart of horror itself, masterfully blending iconic imagery with engaging gameplay.

Why THIS Game?

When it comes to horror-themed board games, it’s a whole universe out there, and the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game by Trick or Treat Studios is throwing down the gauntlet. In the end, there can be only one (unless you are true collector then knock yourself out!). My reasons for picking Trick or Treat Studios game:

  • Gameplay Dynamics: Here’s the scoop. Trick or Treat Studios’ version is like being in the movie – immersive, with a dash of strategy and a sprinkle of luck. This is as close to the real thing you’ll get this side of the Texarkana boarder.
  • Replayability: The Trick or Treat Studios’ game has you coming back with its story-driven endings and achievements that unlock new cards for future plays. You really can replay this game just for the endings and not be disappointed. I think that is the hallmark of a great game–will you have fun after seeing the game in action a few times. For this game the answer is a resounding YES!
  • Unique Features: Trick or Treat Studios’ version pulls you into the horror with fine details in their artwork and mechanics. This was one of the most immersive table top horror games I’ve played. They are, after all, THE Place for horror prop masks. Let everyone else try something that resembles a pale Temu version of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre–Trick or Treat Studios slays it with the real deal. The only thing they missing is the smell of chainsaw fumes…

OK–But is Solo Really an Option?

Did that game box say solo?! Why, yes. Yes it did. Sometimes when a board game says solo it really means ‘crappy experience that makes you regret leaving that cat turd in your only friend’s lunch box’. Take it from the guy who used to play Dungeons and Dragons solo…this is a true solo enjoyment option.

When you play the game by yourself, you have a bit of a modified rules set. It isn’t too hard to learn the rules as you go, and Trick or Treat Games makes learning it a breeze. Doubt me? Check out their rule book here.

I set the game up by reading the game play directions. This was my first run though and, yes, I may have messed a blood splatter up–and maybe a Leatherface movement, but that’s ok. It was easy to get into the rhythm of the game. The set up of the board went pretty smoothly and everything is straight forward. I think this is the type of game where you can pick it off the shelf of your favorite gaming cafe and get right into it (unlike other games where you need to read and reread directions, google how the game board should look and watch 3 youtube videos just to make sense of first play-looking at you Catan…)

After the first round of survivor play, things became smooth. The mechanics really push solo play into the next level. Within 4 minutes, I was having a blast. The enemy movement mechanic is interesting and it lets you play solo with ease. The test-your-luck mechanic is a great way to ramp up the speed of the game towards the end.

In the end, I won (barely) and I would definitely play the game again. In fact, now that I have a solo game under me belt, I look forward to showing this to friends (as soon as they forgive me for the aforementioned cat turd).

The solo game from ‘learning to kill’ took about 55-60 minutes. It’s a decent way to spend some time winding down. I was so immersed in the game, I didn’t even realize the hour going by. I think if you add in 3 more players, some banter and beveratges, this game could last the night with either one long slow play session or a few regular paced games. The death and objective cards, along with the randomization of the token locations, makes this game easily replayable within the same night.

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Conclusion

Through an intricate blend of suspenseful gameplay, immersive narrative elements, and stunning visual design, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game from Trick or Treat Studios carves a niche for itself in the realm of horror-themed board games. It seamlessly marries the enduring terror of the 1974 cinematic masterpiece with the interactive excitement of tabletop gaming, offering players a chance to navigate their way through the chilling confrontations and strategic escapes from the Sawyer family. This game not only recapitulates the hair-raising atmosphere of its film counterpart but also enhances it with unique gameplay mechanics and character dynamics, striving to provide an unforgettable horror experience for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

As we embrace the thrilling challenge and strategic depth offered by the Texas Chainsaw Massacre board game, it further underscores the captivating potential of horror within the board game genre. Considering its engaging combination of strategy, luck, and narrative depth, along with its respectful homage to the original film’s aesthetic and atmosphere, this game represents a compelling proposition for anyone looking to delve deeper into horror-themed entertainment. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the franchise, a board game aficionado, or simply in quest of a thrilling game night adventure, make the leap and buy the boardgame today. Embrace the opportunity to experience the innovative and terrifying journey that Trick or Treat Studios has masterfully crafted.

Final Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

P.S. Like Horror? Like 1000 Corpses? Like uhh.. Houses of them? Kickstarter on now!

Check out the newest invention from Trick or Treat Studios: House of 1000 Corpses table top game. Click the link to see the kickstarter. I’ve already backed it at the Miniature bonus level and so should you!

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Heretic’s Fork Review: Punish Sinners Like it’s Your Job (It Is)

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Welcome to your new corporate job. It’s Hell. No, really. In Heretic’s Fork, Punish sinners, chat with your co-workers, and don’t forget to check your email before you clock out!  

Heretic’s Fork is a 2023 video game by 9FingerGames and published with Ravenage Games. 9FingerGames is a one-man studio run by Stevie Andrea that is also responsible for titles such as Zapling Bygone. While only out since September, Heretic’s Fork has already garnered several accolades. These include selection for Fear Fest 2023 and The Mini Indie Showcase as well as making Rock Paper Shotgun’s Bestest Bests list.

Watch the Heretic’s Fork Release Trailer here!

Heretic’s Fork is a deck-building, tower defense, bullet-hell (ha) game where you take on hordes of souls trying to escape Hell. To begin, you choose an employee to help you in your task. Each employee has a special ability (and variants) that do everything from nothing to stat buffs to adding whole new mechanics. For example the starting character, Intern Ruby, gives no bonuses. But, Gilbo Gibbins introduces a luck-based wheel that encourages you to gamble your cards away for potentially big rewards (and risks).

Screenshot from the character select screen featuring some variants characters.

As the game progresses, you build and upgrade structures to bolster your defenses against the increasingly difficult hordes of sinners. You also have a deck, through which you upgrade your stats and gain special abilities. With rogue-like elements, you are able to unlock new cards and characters by completing goals, using coins, or finding secrets. This leaves a lot to uncover as you work your way through the circles of Hell. While your screen quickly becomes bullet hell, your structures are more or less automated and do all the sinner punishing for you. The real strategy comes in what cards (and structures) you play, upgrade, and get rid of as the game progresses. 

Screenshot of Heretic’s Fork game play from Endless mode.

I have a soft spot for rogue-like deck building games. Heretic’s Fork is no different. I love the diversity of game play through the many structure, character, and card options. The mechanics really complement the game play choices, making each run feel unique and rewarding.

It was easy to spend hours at a time achievement hunting and exploring the hidden secrets buried in your file systems. In fact, I easily put 20 hours into Heretic’s Fork within two weeks of buying it! It also helped that it was an easy game to play on the Steam Deck, despite it not being created with the Steam Deck in mind. That being said, endless mode did stretch my Steam Deck to its limits (but my PC did just fine). It is also of note, that since September the game has been regularly updated with both paid and unpaid bonus content. It feels like every time I’m ready to move on, something new drops and I’m forced to dive back in!

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If you are a fan of tower defense, rogue-like, or deckbuilding games, Heretic’s Fork is definitely worth checking out! It’s only $10 on Steam, which is well worth the price for an interesting gaming experience.

5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

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