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What are you playing?

Takedown seemed then like one of the kind. It was more about eliminating opponents and not crashing with those crazy speeds. Like those races being only about takedowns. And crash mode was like puzzle with wondering where to hit to cause the biggest mayhem and later ofc hit multiplier. Takedown was fresh and spectacular, so exactly what we want from games.

You didn't enjoy Paradise? I feel it had a similar feeling, but I understand there be missing aspects/changes I'm forgetting. Also, I respect that earlier versions did it first.

Still, with how big open worlds (or different maps, especially with DLC/expansions) can get these days...I feel like an iteration on Paradise would truly hit the spot.

I've loved to see those aspects/modes still included ofc.

While I also enjoy the same things you have, there was something about Paradise that gave it a "Tony Hawk with cars" feeling, if not for that type of player, that I particularly enjoyed.

Maybe it was the soundtrack (similar to THPS in a way) that really got me locked-in. IDK, but take-downs/crash mode were indeed something special and some of the, if not THE, best parts imo.

I have no idea (other than the dissolution of Criterion) why EA hasn't gotten the memo. Perhaps NFS games are cheaper to make, but I can't imagine the potential market is nearly as large. Might be wrong.

Dragon's Dogma was getting a bit stale and after a short break I fired up Shadow of War and holy crapolla what a game.

Incredible environment design, great gameplay loop, fun emergent battles (nothing like trying to take down a warchief and then having a 2nd, 3rd, and even 4 orc commander wander into the battle).

WB basically perfected the open world formula and had nowhere else to go but down.

Would *love* to see a not marvel, not DC, original superhero-verse built using the nemesis system and the WB open world design.

Glad you're having fun. I played the first: SoM (as many did); was put off by the controversies about the micro-transaction boxes and massive open-world bloat that surrounded the sequel (as many also were). I understand that (and the sentiment) may have changed over time, and I may not have given it fair shake in it's own right after things were sorted out. I feel that I got my fill with (playing too much as I really enjoyed the loop) SoM, but don't begrudge someone enjoying more and newer content that improved upon it.

While I am certainly not opposed to something similar (or improved) being done with different franchises/properties; reportedly it will be done wrt Wonder Woman, I don't attribute it to WB as a whole.

I attribute it to Monolith specifically; I think it deserves it's place on their own personal wall of unique accomplishments...right next to (the scripting of) F.E.A.R.

Truly under-rated studio imo with particularly innovative talents/titles; their lineage is spectacular (and I lived through them all): Blood, NOLF, Matrix Online, Condemned, and ofc the Fear/Middle-earth series.
 
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You didn't enjoy Paradise? I feel it had a similar feeling, but I understand there be missing aspects/changes I'm forgetting. Also, I respect that earlier versions did it first.

Still, with how big open worlds (or different maps, especially with DLC/expansions) can get these days...I feel like an iteration on Paradise would truly hit the spot.

I've loved to see those aspects/modes still included ofc.

While I also enjoy the same things you have, there was something about Paradise that gave it a "Tony Hawk with cars" feeling, if not for that type of player, that I particularly enjoyed.

Maybe it was the soundtrack (similar to THPS in a way) that really got me locked-in. IDK, but take-downs/crash mode were indeed something special and some of the, if not THE, best parts imo.

I have no idea (other than the dissolution of Criterion) why EA hasn't gotten the memo. Perhaps NFS games are cheaper to make, but I can't imagine the potential market is nearly as large. Might be wrong.

Takedown is the only Burnout I've ever played. Like I said, I have never been a fan of racing games, but Takedown has been that well critically acclaimed, like some reviewers have seen it as systemseller, and tempting with it's formula that I it has tempted me :D E.g. I've also gave a chance Need for Speed Underground 2, haven't had much fun from and those two have happened to be my only racing games on PS2 (and last racing games I've played for quite long time).
 
just finished this burning house boss battle in RE4 (chapter 6).
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Takedown is the only Burnout I've ever played. Like I said, I have never been a fan of racing games, but Takedown has been that well critically acclaimed, like some reviewers have seen it as systemseller, and tempting with it's formula that I it has tempted me :D E.g. I've also gave a chance Need for Speed Underground 2, haven't had much fun from and those two have happened to be my only racing games on PS2 (and last racing games I've played for quite long time).

I believe they ported a remastered Paradise to everything, and likely still holds up (especially since the Remaster isn't *that* old). It's still there waiting for you. I think you'd enjoy it...and it's even in Polish! :)

It's not exactly the same (as it's open-world), but there are still sectioned-off races/activities and what-not that revolve around (and sometimes gaining cars by) taking down other racers.

Crash mode is still there, too. I *think* it's probably regarded by most as the best thing they ever made (and ever will make, given some of the core talent left and formed Three Fields).

I mean, unless you're too good for us Arcade-types, you and your acquired taste of 'perfect balance of arcade and moto-style'. :p

(I'm kidding: I'm glad you're having fun with whatever you're playing and appreciate that you specified why you thought the balance of the game you're playing is enjoyable).
:toast:

Honestly, this thread often just makes me want to, if not actually, go back and play things I've already played. I think Paradise is a classic, and it's been so long (like 15+ years) it would probably feel new to me.
 
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@alwayssts Thank you for recommendation. Maybe I'll give Burnout a try, because knowing Takedown and what you say it's just seems being something different than typical arcade racers I have never liked. It's just formula I've fun with in Takedown, so it's likely to give me fun again :]
 
I can only second Burnout Paradise, arguably one of my fav 'arcade' racing games. Since I've never owned any console its also the only Burnout game that I've played, first when it was new and back then I've unlocked almost all of the cars so I've put a fair ammount of hours into the game.:laugh:
Tried the remastered version on gamepass since its there and that 'lets just check this out quick' idea turned into playing it for hours w/o me noticing so ye its still the same blast.:) 'for me at least since I prefer the arcade style racing games'

Another fun fast paced/hollywood nonsense arcade racer is Split Second imo.
 
Are they playable with just gamepad only? I found Motorsport with all of the assists off satisfyingly challenging, but I feel open to games harder - I think I would just conform to difficulty, so drive safer and against slower opponents. In fact this consciousness of given car behaving possibly close to reality is what I find the most attractive here.

If you have to ask...

More every day they live up to being simulations. Have to imagine at some point AC will become unplayable without a wheel.
 
Calisto Protocol.jpg
Calisto Protocol 2.jpg

Callisto Protocol 3440x1440 Ultrawide Ultra Settings...
I find this game slightly dissapointing... the combat feels unrefined...
 
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.

Second playthrough as I played it years ago on my ps4. Playing on PC now and the 60fps cap is a shame, but at least it means that I can just push the resolution up and pay no price.

5-6 hours in and I've already gotten to the ape while carrying the mortal sword.
Here, have the staple of any from software game, a poison swamp (but downscaled as a 5K image is too large):
IMG_3088.jpeg
 
I seem to be spending more time trying to set PCs up rather than actually get gaming... Will have to put a post up cos I'm way behind :( But WCG and Folding At Home seem to be benefitting no end!! :)
 
I seem to be spending more time trying to set PCs up rather than actually get gaming... Will have to put a post up cos I'm way behind :( But WCG and Folding At Home seem to be benefitting no end!! :)
Do both then: play PC Building Simulator.
 
Something wrong with asking?

No, that is not how it was intended to read. If you have to ask, it might not be for you.
 
Callisto Protocol

While I've never been a fan of any of the aforementioned series, nor have I ever been particularly interested in playing this game, I feel it has contributed in a very particular fashion to this era of releases.

(Also, I can't can't go too hard against it because I know many people with a sentimental attachment to the lead actor for reasons that aren't particularly important...and I choose to respect him/them.)

I feel it's an extremely accurate representation of what can be done with a 'lower' resolution and nicely-scaled settings, or a higher resolution and baseline settings across both consoles and tiers of PC GPUs.

I think it's a great bench, perhaps even better than the nVIDIA-showcase that is the Keanu/Idris vehicle. If I had to point people toward one game to choose their GPU for their desired settings, that might be it.

If anything, I really want to see if there's a patch for PS5pro; what settings/resolution etc it uses. I think it *could* be a great showpiece to illustrate the differences in what can be done between them.

Like-wise, those comparable settings may point people toward what could be the baseline for the next era of gaming and appropriate GPUs.

Perhaps it isn't fair to view the game this way, as I know there are people whom quite like it and others that don't given mechanics/pacing/etc, but I find that purpose for it's existance equally if not more important.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice...

Don't spoil too much of it for me! (Kidding, I know Miyazaki loves poison swamps). I'm waiting for SB, but after I digest that, it might be the next thing I tackle. Appreciate the encouragement/reminder.


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Sorry, I know it's not quite a fair comparison to make. There are many forms of media with similar landscapes. That said, whenever I see skylines from one of these, I think of the other for whatever reason.

That said, there is something beautiful/hopeful about the way Horizon portrays nature recapturing concrete jungle, similar to Planet of the Apes; the acknowledgement/utility of the past, but also a fresh start.

TWD...well, not so much.

Honestly, though, it's been a while since I played those games...and appreciate that you found a moment like this to share. While some aspects I do enjoy (I find their references to things in 'The Little Mermaid' fashion endearing, for example), it's kind of wonderful to see someone so enraptured by it all. I've certainly had my share of moments Hunter-sitting in Destiny, half-admiring a sky-box and half day-dreaming/planning, while 2B (et al) probably spent too much just-enough time sitting at camp so I could relax/cat-nap to the soundtrack (most-appropriately City Ruins). I don't know exactly what's going through YOUR mind in those moments; be it contemplation, trying to find the perfect framing to share, or other, but I'm happy you appear to be taking it all in and savoring it. I think that's any artist's goal, and am glad it does whatever it does for you.
 
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No, that is not how it was intended to read. If you have to ask, it might not be for you.

I clearly explained my likings and you responding to my posts needed to know them - I think it makes you good person to ask, but once again you answer without anything useful ;)
 
There's some talk on arcade racers here, so I gotta throw the actual amount of games I do weekly here.

The awaited discount on Horizon Chase Turbo didn't happen, so I have to go a little bit deep with my old game catalog...

Along with dealing with weekly contents on Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport 8, The Crew Motorfest, The Crew 2 (on PS4Pro) and GT7 (on PS4Pro), and a weekly arcade session (beatmania IIDX) I have started Midnight Club 3 Remix (on PS2 emulator).
Just finished Top Racer 1 (Amateur difficulty) and Top Racer 3000 (Hard difficulty, with some save scumming especially on the last race to get a 1st finish on every race on a "single" run) on the Top Racer Collection. Top Racer 2 was kinda boring to me (player car should be fully upgraded at ~20 races, and there are 40 more races to finish), so I will finish it later.

A month ago I have finished Burnout Revenge (100% except signature takedowns). Revenge is 3 with sillyness turned up to twelve, and IMO is the best Burnout game. (I have done 3, Legends, Revenge, Dominator, and Paradise Remastered.)

Part of the fun of NFS:UG/MW2005/Carbon series and MC3/MC4 is to rice up the car. While some of the riceness is gross AF, it kinda represents what's cool at that time period in car culture. kinda.

Also watched my brother got stuck at the one of last few stages on MC2. The BGM is sick. The difficulty is torturous even for a very experienced racing game player like him. Also shame that MC2 don't have any car modifications. Edit: MC2 looks too ridiculously hard that I will rage quit before 50% progression, so I’m not going to touch it with a 20ft pole.

And I have NFS:Undercover, Prostreet, Horizon Chase 2, Super Woden GP series, F1 Manager 23 and WWE2K23 on my (probably never going to finish) backlog.
 
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While I've never been a fan of any of the aforementioned series, nor have I ever been particularly interested in playing this game, I feel it has contributed in a very particular fashion to this era of releases.

(Also, I can't can't go too hard against it because I know many people with a sentimental attachment to the lead actor for reasons that aren't particularly important...and I choose to respect him/them.)

I feel it's an extremely accurate representation of what can be done with a 'lower' resolution and nicely-scaled settings, or a higher resolution and baseline settings across both consoles and tiers of PC GPUs.

I think it's a great bench, perhaps even better than the nVIDIA-showcase that is the Keanu/Idris vehicle. If I had to point people toward one game to choose their GPU for their desired settings, that might be it.

If anything, I really want to see if there's a patch for PS5pro; what settings/resolution etc it uses. I think it *could* be a great showpiece to illustrate the differences in what can be done between them.

Like-wise, those comparable settings may point people toward what could be the baseline for the next era of gaming and appropriate GPUs.

Perhaps it isn't fair to view the game this way, as I know there are people whom quite like it and others that don't given mechanics/pacing/etc, but I find that purpose for it's existance equally if not more important.



Don't spoil too much of it for me! (Kidding, I know Miyazaki loves poison swamps). I'm waiting for SB, but after I digest that, it might be the next thing I tackle. Appreciate the encouragement/reminder.



View attachment 344848

Sorry, I know it's not quite a fair comparison to make. There are many forms of media with similar landscapes. That said, whenever I see skylines from one of these, I think of the other for whatever reason.

That said, there is something beautiful/hopeful about the way Horizon portrays nature recapturing concrete jungle, similar to Planet of the Apes; the acknowledgement/utility of the past, but also a fresh start.

TWD...well, not so much.

Honestly, though, it's been a while since I played those games...and appreciate that you found a moment like this to share. While some aspects I do enjoy (I find their references to things in 'The Little Mermaid' fashion endearing, for example), it's kind of wonderful to see someone so enraptured by it all. I've certainly had my share of moments Hunter-sitting in Destiny, half-admiring a sky-box and half day-dreaming/planning, while 2B (et al) probably spent too much just-enough time sitting at camp so I could relax/cat-nap to the soundtrack (most-appropriately City Ruins).
I don't know exactly what's going through YOUR mind in those moments; be it contemplation, trying to find the perfect framing to share, or other, but I'm happy you appear to be taking it all in and savoring it. I think that's any artist's goal, and am glad it does whatever it does for you.
I just liked the vista, the setting etc, hit F12 and hopped back on the bird to the next quest.
For Aloy it was 'a moment of zen'.
 
I clearly explained my likings and you responding to my posts needed to know them - I think it makes you good person to ask, but once again you answer without anything useful ;)

Clearly there are subtleties of the English language I'm failing to communicate.

You seemed to be reflecting upon the racing genre outside of arcade games. An attempt was made to determine if there were other directly related racing titles you might enjoy.
While exploring if full sim might actually - that you grew as a gamer - now be enjoyable. :)
 
Pax Dei Alpha Test


Pax resized.png


My camp is coming along fine...

pax 2 resized.png



pax4.png
 
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This is the most iconic soundtrack in all gaming.... you heard it many times
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yeah. finished Blood and Wine. and this concludes my witcher 3 adventure for the very last time.
170 hours. got nothing to play after this. nothing else comes close.
maybe its time for a brake
 

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yeah. finished Blood and Wine. and this concludes my witcher 3 adventure for the very last time.
170 hours. got nothing to play after this. nothing else comes close.
maybe its time for a brake
It also took me 170+ hours according to GoG, that was my first playthrough tho.
I was planning a second on NG+ but I have no idea when I will ever get to that.. 'I still have to do a second Cyberpunk playthrough with Phantom Liberty included so ye'

And ye after finishing long story based games that I've liked I also have that 'empty' feeling for a few days and idk what to play next. 'usually I pick up a nonsense simple fun game until that feeling passes'
Currently I'm closing on 50 hours played in Forbidden West and I still feel like that I've barely started the game..:laugh:
Maybe I should stop staring at the scenery so much then I would make progress:oops::

ForbiddenSnow.jpg
 
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