News - ‘Hatch Tales’ Release Date Finally Revealed Six Years On
Image: Atooi
A whopping six years on from its successful Kickstarter campaign, developer Atooi has announced a release date for Hatch Tales: it’s finally coming on 28th March 2024.
The cute platformer — an enhanced HD port of 3DS title Chicken Wiggle and formerly known Chicken Wiggle Workshop — was successfully crowdfunded back in early 2018, surpassing its $30,000 goal with a total of $35,634 from 1,553 backers.
With an initial estimated delivery of December 2018 and sporadic updates via the campaign page, discontent amongst Kickstarter backers has led to significant criticism over communication from the Austin, TX-based studio throughout development.
Despite its prolonged incubation time — described as an “adventurous development journey” in Atooi’s press release — it seems Hatch Tales is finally preparing to emerge on the sixth anniversary of the initial Kickstarter campaign.
A post to backers of the project informed them of the news earlier today. Here’s some text from the press release:
Image: Atooi
Hatch Tales – formerly known as Chicken Wiggle Workshop – has had an adventurous development journey since its successful Kickstarter campaign in March, 2018. On the sixth anniversary of the campaign, the wait will finally be over.
Hatch Tales is a stylish 2D platformer with climbing mechanics featuring Hatch, a flightless hawk mountaineer, who uses his trusty grappling hook to climb up mountains, stun enemies, and zip across chasms!
We are planning a special Atooi media event that will be announced in the future, where viewers will be taken on a deep dive into the egg-citing features of Hatch Tales. Follow us to stay up to date with announcements.
[embedded content]A 2020 trailer for the game
For backers, this one has been a very long time coming and some may be understandably sceptical at this date announcement until the game is sitting on their Switch and they can see how it compares to the initial vision outlined in the campaign.
We’re in the process of speaking to Atooi founder Jools Watsham about this game’s long gestation (among other things) for an upcoming interview, so keep an eye out for that in the coming days.
Are you a Hatch Tales backer? Did you think this one had been scrambled? Let us know your thoughts below.
[freebies.indiegala.com] Yashik - it's very simple game with puzzles. You play as a small character who needs to get out of the room.Your task is to find the key card and open the door. [freebies.indiegala.com]
AppleInsider - Get Apple’s new USB-C AirPods Pro 2 for $199.99, a $50 discount off
Apple may have just released AirPods Pro 2 with a USB-C charging case, but a price war has already erupted, driving the cost down to $199.99.
You can pick up the latest AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C at Amazon.com and BestBuy.com for $199.99, reflecting a $50 price cut off the regular $249 price.
Whether you’re looking for lossless audio for the upcoming Apple Vision Pro or simply want the convenience of a USB-C charging port, this 2023 release matches the $199 price we’ve been seeing on what is now the last-gen model with a Lightning charging port.
If you’re looking for the best Apple Watch deal on the new Ultra 2, Amazon also has a double-digit discount going on, bringing the cost down to $779 on select styles.
More offers saving you money around the web
The AppleInsiderPrice Guide is home to hundreds of additional markdowns on Apple hardware. Here are a few of our favorite picks:
Posted by: xSicKxBot - 09-28-2023, 10:30 AM - Forum: Windows
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Microsoft - With our latest update to Windows 11, available today, we’re bringing
Microsoft and Oracle have partnered to bring the best of both worlds together. OCI database services are now available in Azure. This partnership helps organizations meet their evolving needs and empowers customers to create new value in the cloud. With this integration, users can seamlessly build Azure applications with the high performance, high availability, and automated management of Oracle database services, such as Exadata and RAC, running on OCI.
News - Review: Wargroove 2 – A Must-Play Tactical RPG And A Worthy Successor To Ad
Captured on Nintendo Switch (Docked)
2023 has been a good year for tactics games on the Switch. Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot marked the return of two classic GBA games while Fire Emblem Engage brought the series’s focus to its strategic roots. Chucklefish and Robotality’s Wargroove 2 is the next SRPG joining the fray, and while its adorable pixel-art graphics might trick you into thinking it is a watered-down, kid-friendly version of the genre, it provides loads of depth to keep even the most battle-worn combatants engaged. It just manages to look cute as heck while doing it.
If you played 2019’s Wargroove — which was inspired by the original Advance Wars — then you’ll know exactly what to expect from the sequel. The world is the same, but new factions are battling it out for control of the strange relics leftover from a long-destroyed civilisation. There isn’t a recap of the events of the first game for new players, but Wargroove 2 does a good job of getting you up to speed without dragging things out too long. The campaign provides exactly the information you need from the first game, but if you want to get fully up to speed, there is a robust codex that you can read as a primer to help fill the gaps.
Captured on Nintendo Switch (Handheld/Undocked)
This time around there are three campaigns to play through, each with unique characters and a plot that joins up with the other two in the final act of the game. The pixel art and the cozy soundtrack help breathe life into a charming cast of characters, which will make you want to keep playing through the game’s story mode. Visually, the developers do a good job of maintaining the pixel art in docked mode to keep it from looking distorted, meaning that the game looks just as good no matter how big or small the screen is.
The gameplay of Wargroove 2 is also remarkably similar to its predecessor, though that is largely because there was very little room for improvement. Each faction has a similar range of troop types, including swordsmen, archers, and cavalry. These units have the sort of rock-paper-scissors relationship with each other that you’d expect – cavalry can tear through swordsmen but not spearmen, for example. Terrain also plays an important part in your strategy, with forests, mountains, and rivers either giving bonuses or penalties to defence.
It is all fairly standard for the genre, though the return of the Critical Hit system adds an extra layer of strategy to each map. Every unit can deal massive damage if you position them in the right way; Swordsmen do their best work when adjacent to a Commander unit, Spearmen benefit from being next to other spearmen, and Archers crit when you don’t move them before they attack. This system makes the combat just complex enough that you’ll agonise over the particular placement of each member of your army, either to ensure their survival or to make sure their inevitable death leads to a greater victory.
Captured on Nintendo Switch (Handheld/Undocked)
With that complexity comes difficulty and there are some very tough missions in Wargroove 2. The default difficulty setting is Hard, which limits the number of redos you get per map and increases the amount of damage you take from enemy units. We’re not ashamed to admit we lowered the difficulty setting to Medium after the prologue and found that the maps were still challenging but far more manageable at this level, but even on this setting, the enemy troops’ AI is surprisingly competent and makes some clever decisions to keep you on your toes.
Another returning feature from the first game is Commander units, which have powerful Groove abilities that can either deal massive damage or shift both friendly and enemy units around the battlefield. There is a small new wrinkle to the Grooves in Wargroove which allows you to supercharge them to increase their range or strength. Some of these skills are too situational to feel useful, like the one that rotates units around the Commander, making certain units feel less balanced than others, but overall it remains a fun feature in an already fun game.
Captured on Nintendo Switch (Docked)
Our favourite part of the combat in Wargroove 2 is the healthy variety of objectives that each map offers during the campaigns. Sometimes you need to protect your base for a certain number of turns while other missions require you to navigate through a heavy fog of war. Most maps have optional objectives that you can complete if you’re after an even bigger challenge, so each of the maps has at least some replayability to them.
If the core campaigns aren’t enough for you, there is also the Conquest mode, which drops you into a gauntlet of procedurally generated maps, where you’ll rarely get the chance to respawn units as your health slowly dwindles. The further you get into each run, the more Shards you’ll earn, which can be redeemed for new units and stronger abilities, making successive runs easier. If roguelikes are your thing, you could conceivably spend as much time here as you do in the main story.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to test the online features of the game, including multiplayer, due to playing the game pre-release and there not being any fan-made maps to try or other players online. Similarly, we couldn’t try out the campaign editor feature due to a bug that caused our Switch to crash every time we tried to load the feature. Once these features are fixed in the inevitable future patch, Wargroove 2 will be positively bursting with content.
Captured on Nintendo Switch (Handheld/Undocked)
Even without the online features, Wargroove 2 can stand proud among the other excellent tactics games we’ve seen this year on Switch. The pixel art aesthetic and lovely soundtrack add plenty of charm to the characters and the writing has the right balance of tongue-in-cheek humour and drama to make it memorable. There are tactics games out there with bigger budgets or more impressive cutscenes, but Wargroove 2 is still a must-play for fans of the genre.
Conclusion
It isn’t often that war is a cozy affair, but Wargroove 2 manages to pull it off. We loved the game’s colourful, vibrant art and playful writing, and there is enough depth and variety in the main campaign to satisfy most tactics fans while the Conquest mode will offer an even greater challenge for those seeking it. It doesn’t change much from the previous game; it just tightens up some of the existing mechanics and adds a couple of extra wrinkles to an already great formula. It’s a brilliant sequel, and yet another worthy successor to Advance Wars.
Posted by: xSicKxBot - 09-28-2023, 10:24 AM - Forum: Lounge
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News - The best city builder games 2023
Who doesn’t want to play the best city builder games on Switch and mobile, right? There’s something so inherently satisfying about building a city. Like some sort of mega-Tetris, the idea of slotting together buildings and maintaining the day-to-day challenges of a city is both fascinating and fun. Honestly, I could have been an architect I reckon, if it wasn’t for all the studying, and being smart, and the cost. So instead let’s dive into some games you can afford, and play today, no degree required.
Just before we don our hard hats and start assembling the rest of our article, be sure to check out the suburbs of Pocket Tactics for some real hidden gems. Much like an out-of-town restaurant, we’ve had fantastic Yelp reviews for our guides covering the best Switch racing games, the best horror games on Switch and mobile, the best Switch RPGs, the best Switch tactics games, and, if just like our mate Bob you love a bit of building, have a look at our guide on the best games like Minecraft for Switch and mobile.
It’s time to get on with our guide to the best city builder games on Switch and mobile.
Cities: Skyline – Switch
Well, this one is a bit on the nose, isn’t it? Cities: Skyline is a deep and incredibly addictive city builder where you can make the marvelous metropolis of your dreams. This granular simulation game gives you so much control, allowing you to optimize and manipulate the education systems, healthcare, and many other elements to better balance your city’s economy.
The Switch port sacrifices a bit of visual clarity, but being able to play this incredibly rich sim on the go is well worth it. Developer Colossal Order has optimized the UI incredibly well for Switch, and there’s even Pro Controller support so you can feel the rumble of machinery as you erect your latest skyscrapers. Cities: Skyline on Switch also includes both the After Dark and Snowfall DLC packs. so that’s plenty of building bang for your buck.
Steamworld Build – Switch
Alright, this is a slightly pre-emptive pick, but we have actually played and absolutely loved this entry in our Steamworld Build preview. Plus, the Steamworld Build release date isn’t far away at all, so you’d better get saving. Developer Thunderful (previously Image & Form) is well recognized for taking concepts and adding a layer of quirky personality to them, and then delivering a stellar game along the way. Steamworld Dig 1&2, Steamworld Heist, Steamworld Quest… all bangers. Well, they are if you ask us.
Steamworld Build brings across all of the depth, charm, and smart optimization that the Steamworld franchise is famous for. You balance your city-building abilities above ground with a surprisingly deep (sorry) mining side of the game, as you send units to explore the depths and earn the very elements you need to continue building above ground. It looks great, feels very addictive, and we can’t wait to relax over the holidays with another charming Steamworld entry.
Dragon Quest Builders 2 – Switch
Don’t judge a book by its cover, and don’t look at Dragon Quest Builders 2 and assume it’s Minecraft with silly JRPG outfits. I mean, it is that, but it’s also so much more. DQB2 takes the mining formula and adds so many smart quality-of-life upgrades that it makes going back to Minecraft feel like a chore. Plus, a lovely storyline propels the narrative and slowly introduces more tasks, building tools, and areas for you to explore.
On top of just being able to build your basic blocky barrack, as you explore the narrative and visit multiple islands, you befriend the people you meet along the way and bring them back to your home, building a cute community as you progress. You get farm animals, plenty of different building types, some really funny Dragon Quest-themed furniture, and the wholesome feeling of providing refuge for some waifs and strays. There’s a lengthy demo for Dragon Quest Builders 2, so give it a tickle and see if it’s for you. Forgive the sluggish intro, we promise it opens up fairly quickly!
Civilisation VI – Switch and mobile
The king, the legend, the G.O.A.T. of city-building sim games. As the French band Justice once sang… “Civilization.” That’s right Justice, what else is there to say? Well, Civ 6 is the latest iteration of the long-running franchise, and it brings along years of smart upgrades, challenges, and attention to detail that many other sim games can never hope to match.
Build your own personal empire and try to fend off the forces of encroaching countries. Develop tools and resources quickly, and soon you can overpower your foes with the smartest weapons this side of Tyrion using green flames on some pirate boats. What’s more, the extensive Switch port includes scenario packs based on Vikings, Poland (dobry, dobry!), Australia, and Persia. If you’re planning on conquering soon, be sure to check out our Civ 6 tier list first.
Townscaper – Switch and mobile
Let’s bring things down a notch, with a minimalist city-builder that’s more about vibes than vigorous architectural action. In Townscaper there are no goals, no tasks, no time limit, and definitely no enemies. Your job is just to build. Either use a controller or tap the screen to plop some buildings into an empty water-based void, and before long you’re making the adorable city of your dreams.
It’s not quite as granular as you might expect, but you can still create towns with a varying degree of tiers, you can swap colors, and even make cute little awnings and balconies. Whether you play on Switch or mobile, this is a cheap and cheerful way to spend a few hours, and it’s especially a lovely and very peaceful way to gain some calm and exert some control when the world feels a little bit too much. Check out our Townscaper review for more information.
Minecraft – Switch and mobile
Yeah, I know, this isn’t quite a city-builder, but technically you can build a city if you want to – as long as you have a month to spare. In Minecraft, your ability is only as big as your ambition, and you can create cities, countries, or even the entire world of Westeros (second Game of Thrones mention klaxon). You can choose survival if you want to brave the elements and tackle those dreaded creepers, and there’s something so thrilling about cobbling together your very first tiny little home.
However, if you just want to build me up, buttercup, then slap that bad boy onto creative and start building like God that one week. Enjoy unlimited resources, the insane depth of Redstone and other interactive elements, and plenty of real estate. Plus, you can watch the mountain of Minecraft YouTube videos to get some tips and even set up a server to share a game world with your pals. Yes, it’s a meme at this point, but there’s a reason Minecraft became the biggest game in the world. If this weary 34-year-old man can still unwind with a pickaxe, then you can give it a go as well.
The Simpsons: Tapped Out – mobile
I refuse to even entertain the idea that there’s anything in the world that isn’t improved by adding The Simpsons. My childhood skateboard? It had Bart on it, and it ruled. My t-shirt? You’d better believe it, The Simpsons are there making me look rad. GTA? Nah, The Simpsons Hit & Run shows Homer and the crew can make everything better. My parents divorce? Cheers Homer, we got through it together.
Anyway, uuhhh, The Simpsons: Tapped Out is a free-to-start city-builder, where you create your own approximation of Springfield. Use currency known as donuts to build Moe’s Tavern, Springfield School, the famous tyre fire, and much more. We will say, be careful, as while it’s addictive and very fun, The Simpsons: Tapped Out often feels designed to frustrate you into spending money, and purchase options go as high as the hundreds in an obvious attempt to harpoon those elusive mobile gaming whales. Still, if you can resist the urge, there’s so much to love here.
There you go, folks! That’s all we have for our guide to the best city builder games on Switch and mobile. If you just can’t get enough of that wonderful Duff (or video games), you can also read our argument for The Simpsons: Hit and Run remake now.
AppleInsider - Apple uses hidden watermarks on iPhone 15 boxes to verify authenticity
iPhone 15 Pro
Extra precautions have been taken for iPhone 15 boxes that give retail employees and buyers a new way to verify the device is real — but you’ll need a UV light.
Scammers attempt to sell fake iPhones by using convincing replicated device packaging. Apple has added a new invisible watermarking system in an attempt to eliminate this practice.
A leaker known as Majin Bu on X shared a video initially posted on Weibo by user @Pengnone. The video shows someone shining a UV light on the iPhone 15 box to reveal watermarks and a QR code that helps verify device authenticity.
There is some concern that scammers will be able to replicate this watermark. It seems the QR code may be what makes this system more secure since it likely contains a system-verifiable code that scammers won’t easily copy.
Customers buying from big retailers won’t need to worry about device authenticity. However, the resale market and smaller vendors have more opportunities for scams.
The boxes of the new iPhone 15 are equipped with a security system that displays holograms under a UV light. This is a measure introduced by Apple to recognize real boxes and prevent people from being scammed pic.twitter.com/oBhQoc5IDI
When in doubt, check the device serial number and ensure it matches what’s on the box. Also, check the box for problems or manipulation that might signify a scam.
The iPhone 15 lineup is available for pre-order and arrives in-store Friday, September 22. Many device configurations have already sold out, so scammers will likely be active during the big release day.
Posted by: xSicKxBot - 09-27-2023, 09:59 AM - Forum: Windows
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Microsoft - Today, we showed you how Copilot can make your life better. We’re exci
With 139 million consumers between the ages of 15 and 55, brands are increasingly looking to cater to the population in Tier 2 and 3 cities, Akshara Srivastava reports for Business Standard. The consumer base across India’s Tier 2 and 3 cities is now at par with Tier 1 cities, according to Kantar data. Aashish Shukla, consumer and market insights lead at ITC, says that companies need to rethink their strategies to tap into this segment. Of prime importance is customised communication to reach out to this consumer base and generate curiosity, he adds. What are the reasons for this surge in consumers in non-metro cities? Widespread use of smartphones, more internet penetration, higher incomes, and greater access to products, the report says. Reverse migration during the pandemic and increasing aspirations are also contributing factors, says Suraja Kishore, CEO at advertising firm BBDO. Not only Tier 2 and 3 cities, the rising demand for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in the rural market is another trend that companies are looking to leverage, Manish Aggarwal, Director at Bikano, Bikanervala Foods, writes in an article for The Economic Times. In fact, the rural market now contributes around 39% of total FMCG sales across the country, according to estimates by Nielsen. Rural areas are emerging as growth drivers due to their wider consumer bases, Aggarwal writes. However, challenges like transportation and the seasonality of demand remain, he adds. Source: Business Standard – https://lnkd.in/gQmHjyqG The Economic Times – https://lnkd.in/gevqKSyR ✍: Abhiraj Ganguli
?: Getty Images #tier2#tier3#india#brands
