Finished my last cycle (6th) of SMT V: Vengeance for 100% completion so will be shelving that completely. Loved the game but probably would not recommend 100%'ing it, since subsequent playthroughs are quite easy for the most part (even on Godborne once you get to 150), but 2-3 playthroughs still has a lot going on if you're wanting more after the first cycle. The superbosses were especially fun to beat (probably not for everyone though).
I also got my first class to max in Space Marine 2 and had my first Operations match where people were actually talking. Game is already mad fun, but on the harder difficulties with voice chat it just sings. Incidentally, I ended playing as a low-level Bulwark because the other two players were using the only classes I had at a high level. But luckily player-skill makes a huge difference so even though your damage output can be relatively low you pull your weight if you know what you're doing.
Slowly starting back up on FF7: Rebirth and getting ready for Hard Mode, seems like the way to go is clearing the Colosseum first to level up a bit. Have to get used to the combat system again but really looking forward to the challenge, the Colosseum matches are a pretty good warm-up as you can't just button-mash your way through them.
Beat Hollow Knight over the last couple of weeks and it certainly lives up to its reputation. Gorgeous art and music, great platforming, satisfying and fun combat. I'd even say the story and world-building lands quite well, even though I would've liked a little more substance to the themes of the game (or maybe it just flew over my head). Currently at around 105% completion and will probably go for 112%. Not quite sure if I'll beat my head against the wall that is the last pantheon (crazy hard boss rush) or the Path of Pain, but they're still on the table for now.
Finally, since beating Hollow Knight and 100%-ing SMT I've been pondering what game to start next. Been extremely tempted by Metaphor Refantazio and Shadow of the Erdtree, but since I'm coming straight of both massive games and JRPGs I thought a little palette cleanser might be good.
So started on Steelrising yesterday. Been eyeing that one in the PS+ catalogue for a while. Love me some Souls-like and this one fits the bill perfectly with a smaller scope, smaller budget, and a nice dose of creativity and originality. The game is certainly janky so far, and the controls don't feel amazing. But it is undoubtedly fun. The setting and focus on story / cutscenes is really interesting, and the combat isn't bad. You're quite limited on defensive options compared to most Souls-likes (blocking/parrying is limited to specific weapons) so positioning and timing becomes really important.
![[Sigma]](/data/avatars/m/701/701747.jpg?1726376545){kind=avatar}
) and apparently it's the same on consoles.
