Tyler Denyer, Author at Thumb Culture

7Nov

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

Monarchy – PC Review

Let’s dive into Monarchy (available now on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch), Developed and Published by Brain Seal Ltd. Monarchy is a 2D side-scrolling strategy game combining resource management, exploration, and battling with bandits. Think of it as a blend of medieval city-builder meets adventure quest, with a dollop of cartoonish charm. Its main competitor will be Kingdom Two Crowns, and we shall discuss their similarities and differences. Monarchy: Reign Supreme or Just Another Knightmare? If you’re a fan of Kingdom Two Crowns, then Monarchy should pique your interest. Meanwhile, Monarchy could be a close cousin, sharing that same base-building, resource-managing vibe. However, we’re eager to see how its 2D digital art style— instead of the pixelated look—might brin...

4Nov

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

PC Reviews

Amanda The Adventurer 2 – PC Review

Developed by MANGLEDmaw Games and produced by DreadXP, Amanda the Adventurer 2 picks up where its predecessor left off. Taking players on a chilling adventure that blends nostalgic cartoon elements with a deeply unsettling narrative. Available on Steam now, this time, we follow Riley Park, who ventures to the Kensdale Public Library. Amanda the Adventurer 2, she definitely won't hurt you. Every now and then, a game comes along that taps into your inner child – only to terrify it. Amanda the Adventurer 2 lures you in with a vibe reminiscent of shows like Dora the Explorer or Blue’s Clues. But this is no kid's show; things quickly turn sinister. You’re left with a series of puzzles, and a glimpse into Amanda’s unsettling world that keeps you on edge. See if you’re up for the challenge – an...

4Nov

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

PC Reviews

Karate Survivor – PC Review

Ever wanted to be an ‘80s action hero but with a twist of absurdity? Enter Karate Survivor, where the streets are your dojo, your fists are your tools, and the teeth you collect from fallen enemies are the key to growing stronger. Developed and published by Alawar, this roguelike is most similar to Enter The Gungeon and Binding of Isaac, but focuses on an arcade feel and using your fists and melee weapons instead of more ranged ones. With heart and humour, it's perfect for anyone who dreams of clearing out bad guys with a plastic flamingo. The game is available on Steam for the introductory price of £3.86. Karate Survivor: Tooth Collecting, Bread Breaking, and ‘80s Arcade Action Karate Survivor is calling your name if you’re ready to dive into a roguelike that trades bullet hell chaos fo...

28Oct

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

PC Reviews

Citadelum – PC Review

City-building games have long held a special place in the hearts of strategy fans. Citadelum (developed by Abylight Barcelona and published by Abylight Studios) is the latest. Set against the backdrop of Roman civilisation, the game introduces divine intervention as a core mechanic, adding an intriguing layer of depth to traditional city-building and strategic expansion. But how does it compare to genre classics such as Caesar, Pharaoh, and Zeus: Master of Olympus? Let’s delve into the world of Citadelum to find out. Citadelum more like Citadel umm. While it was exciting to see Citadelum adding gods, reminiscent of Zeus: Master of Olympus, it was disappointing that the gods don’t walk around naturally unless you actively anger or please them. It’s also a shame there are no roaming heroes...

28Oct

By Tyler Denyer1 Comment

Hardware & Tech

Krafted Connex – Hardware Review

Today we’re diving into a new piece of kit: the Connex device by Krafted. This little gadget is compact, clever, and has a bit of a Swiss Army knife charm. On paper, it promises to handle all your charging and connecting needs in one neat package. But does it deliver, or is it more of a "nice-to-have" than a "must-have"? The features Krafted for you Arriving in cardboard/ paperboard packaging. The Krafted Connex is small and lightweight, with a size of (95mm x 31mm x 19mm) and weighing 87.5 grams. (Their website says 875 grams, but this must be an error, with six flip-out connectors. Each item is encased in a flexible silicone that allows just enough movement. But here’s the snag: the connectors don’t fold out completely straight. So there’s a fair bit of adjusting to get them to plug in...

30Sep

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

Previews & Early Access

Sky Oceans: Wings for Hire – PC Preview

When you hear the phrase “sky pirates,” it’s hard not to get excited. Sky Oceans: Wings for Hire, developed by Octeto Studios and published by PQube, embraces this theme with both hands. As a tribute to classic JRPGs, this game serves up high-flying battles and an emotionally charged story about searching for purpose. But, while there’s a lot to admire in its adventurous spirit, there is also some turbulence along the way. Story - Sky Pirates searching for justice not booty At the heart of Sky Oceans: Wings for Hire is Glenn Windwalker, a determined captain with a crew of sky pirates with similar backgrounds. Your journey revolves around Glenn’s efforts to assemble a group of adventurers, all while fighting against a powerful organisation called the Alliance. On paper, it’s got all the i...

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland – PC Review

20Sep

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

PC Reviews

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland – PC Review

When Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was announced I immediately sensed the nostalgia. The 90s were a magical time, especially if you grew up glued to Nickelodeon, absorbing episodes of Rugrats like a sponge. Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, and the troublemaking twins Phil and Lil were more than just cartoon characters; they were part of our childhood. A platformer that marries retro 8-bit glory with HD polish, starring our favourite diapered heroes? Count me in! Published and developed by The MIX Games and Wallride, we covered the news about the release of Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland earlier this month. It is currently available digitally on PC via Steam, PlayStation 4|5, and Nintendo Switch. Smells like nostalgia Having spent time shuffling through the world of Gameland, I'm her...

26Aug

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

Switch Reviews

Across The Obelisk – Switch Review

Across the Obelisk, developed by Dreamsite Games and published by Paradox Interactive, is a roguelike deckbuilding game that pulls players into a world of card-based strategy. In this fantasy adventure, you'll craft powerful decks, make crucial decisions, and lead a party of heroes through a turmoil-filled realm. The game's blend of strategic depth, replayability, and cooperative elements offers an engaging experience that can be enjoyed solo or with friends. They didn't just make it Across the Obelisk. They smashed it. The mix of strategic deckbuilding and a rogue-lite element hooked me from the start. Like Darkest Dungeon, but with cards, Across the Obelisk offers tactical depth and beautiful hand-drawn art, but with the added excitement of crafting powerful decks and making impactfu...

20Aug

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

PC Reviews

Ario – PC Review

Ario, developed by Vata Games and published by Artax Games, plunges players into a vivid yet troubled world. Ario tells the story of a young warrior named Ario, who embarks on a perilous journey to rescue his mother from the clutches of dark forces. What begins as a quest to reunite with his missing parent soon becomes an epic battle against nightmares, curses, and a host of demonic enemies. With its combination of action, platforming, and tower defence elements, Ario attempts to carve out a niche in the crowded 2.5D action-adventure genre. But does it succeed? Ario, this game needed some more air yo. What really stands out in Ario is the vibrant art style and dark atmosphere. It does a great job of creating a world filled with tension and mystery, making exploration genuinely exciting...

13Aug

By Tyler DenyerNo Comments

PC Reviews

Dark and Deep – PC Review

Dark and Deep, created by Here Below under the direction of Walter Woods, is a game that challenges reality. With its intriguing design through the artwork of Gustav Doré, haunting soundscapes, and thought-provoking narrative, this game leads us through an abyss of darkness and uncertainty. Dark and Deep, this podcast sounds neat. Dark and Deep combines cosmic horror and mystery, offering tense gameplay and a unique narrative. Within the game you take on the role of Samuel Judge, a fan of the podcast “Dark and Deep.” Soon, you are thrust into a world where fiction and reality intertwine in terrifying ways. Becoming involved in a deeply unsettling conspiracy. But does it truly succeed in captivating players? Or is it just a fleeting wisp of intrigue? Let's take a Dark and Deep dive into w...