Developer: Radiant Entertainment

Rising Thunder (2015)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Rising Thunder: A Fighting Game Revolution

In the realm of fighting games, complexity has long been considered a virtue. Motion inputs, charge commands, and intricate button combinations have been the gatekeepers to mastering the genre’s most iconic titles. However, Rising Thunder, a free-to-play fighting game released in 2015, dared to challenge this orthodoxy.

Simplified Controls, Uncompromised Depth

Rising Thunder’s most striking feature is its simplified control scheme. With just eight buttons – three normals, three specials, an Overdrive/Super, and a throw – the game strips away the technical barriers that often make fighting games inaccessible to newcomers.

But don’t let the simplicity fool you. Rising Thunder’s gameplay is anything but shallow. The game’s eight-button system allows for a surprising amount of depth and nuance. Normal attacks can be chained together into devastating combos, while special moves can be canceled into each other to create fluid and unpredictable sequences.

The Overdrive/Super mechanic adds another layer of strategy to the gameplay. By sacrificing a portion of their health, players can activate their character’s Overdrive, which grants them access to enhanced moves and abilities. Overdrives can turn the tide of battle in an instant, but they must be used wisely as they come at a significant cost.

A Diverse Cast of Characters

Rising Thunder features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique fighting style and level of difficulty. From the swift and agile Dash to the powerful and imposing Bruiser, there’s a character to suit every playstyle.

Each character’s moveset is carefully designed to complement their fighting style. For example, Dash excels at quick hit-and-run tactics, while Bruiser relies on brute force and heavy hitting attacks. This diversity ensures that every match-up feels fresh and exciting.

Competitive Spirit

Despite its simplified controls, Rising Thunder is a highly competitive game. The game’s balanced gameplay and rollback netcode make it ideal for high-level play. In fact, Rising Thunder has been featured in several major fighting game tournaments, including EVO and DreamHack.

The game’s competitive scene is thriving, with players from all over the world battling it out for supremacy. Rising Thunder’s accessible mechanics make it easy for newcomers to get started, but its deep and rewarding gameplay ensures that there’s always something new to learn and master.

A Labor of Love

Rising Thunder is the brainchild of Radiant Entertainment, a small independent studio founded by Seth Killian, a former Capcom producer known for his work on the Street Fighter series. Killian and his team set out to create a fighting game that was both accessible and competitive, and they succeeded beyond expectations.

Rising Thunder was released as a free-to-play game, with players able to unlock additional characters and cosmetics through microtransactions. This model allowed Radiant Entertainment to continue supporting the game with new content and updates, even after its initial release.

Legacy and Impact

Rising Thunder’s impact on the fighting game genre cannot be overstated. The game’s simplified controls and accessible mechanics paved the way for a new generation of fighting games that are more welcoming to newcomers without sacrificing depth or competitiveness.

Games like Skullgirls, Them’s Fightin’ Herds, and Fantasy Strike have all taken inspiration from Rising Thunder’s design philosophy. These games have helped to broaden the appeal of the fighting game genre and attract a wider audience of players.

Conclusion

Rising Thunder is a landmark fighting game that challenged the conventions of the genre and proved that accessibility and depth can coexist. Its simplified controls, diverse cast of characters, and competitive gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre and newcomers alike. Rising Thunder is a testament to the passion and innovation of its creators, and it continues to inspire and influence the fighting game community to this day.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Cover Art

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Stonehearth (2013)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Stonehearth: A Thrilling Journey of Exploration, Survival, and City-Building

In the realm of video games, where innovation and creativity converge, Stonehearth stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of indie game development. Released in 2013, this captivating game seamlessly blends elements of exploration, survival, and city-building, immersing players in an epic fantasy setting where every choice shapes their destiny.

A Land of Enchanting Beauty and Perilous Challenges

Stonehearth unfolds on procedurally generated terrain, ensuring that each playthrough offers a unique and unpredictable landscape. From verdant forests teeming with life to towering mountains that pierce the heavens, the world of Stonehearth is a visual masterpiece that captivates the senses.

However, beneath this enchanting beauty lies a world fraught with peril. Dynamic AI encounters keep players on their toes, as they must constantly adapt to the changing threats that emerge from the wilderness. From cunning bandits to fearsome creatures, each encounter tests the limits of the player’s strategic prowess and survival instincts.

Leading a Band of Settlers to Prosperity

As the guiding force behind a small group of settlers, the player’s primary objective is to establish a thriving community amidst the untamed wilderness. This entails securing a steady food supply, constructing sturdy shelter, and defending against potential threats.

Every settler possesses unique skills and abilities, adding depth and complexity to the gameplay. As the settlement grows, players must carefully manage their resources, assign tasks, and make strategic decisions that will shape the destiny of their people.

Infinite Building Possibilities and Unbridled Creativity

Stonehearth truly shines in its unparalleled building system. With infinite possibilities at their disposal, players can design and construct elaborate structures that reflect their own unique vision and architectural style. From cozy cottages nestled amidst lush gardens to towering castles that dominate the skyline, the only limit is the player’s imagination.

This freedom of expression extends to every aspect of the game. Players can customize their settlers’ appearance, modify the terrain, and even create their own custom content using the game’s robust modding tools. Stonehearth empowers players to shape their own gaming experience, fostering a thriving community of modders who continuously expand the game’s possibilities.

A Tapestry of Gameplay Styles

Stonehearth’s gameplay is as diverse as the procedurally generated worlds it inhabits. Players can choose to focus on exploration, venturing into uncharted territories and uncovering hidden secrets. They can engage in thrilling combat, defending their settlement from relentless waves of enemies. Or they can immerse themselves in the intricate details of city-building, carefully planning and constructing a thriving metropolis.

The beauty of Stonehearth lies in its ability to cater to a wide range of playstyles. Whether players prefer the excitement of combat, the challenge of survival, or the satisfaction of building a prosperous community, Stonehearth offers an immersive and rewarding experience that will keep them engaged for hours on end.

A Legacy of Innovation and Community

Since its release in 2013, Stonehearth has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and vibrant modding community. It has received numerous awards and accolades, including the IndieDB Indie of the Year Award in 2013.

The Stonehearth community is one of the most dedicated and passionate in the gaming world. Modders have created thousands of custom maps, items, and gameplay modifications, extending the game’s lifespan and ensuring that there is always something new to discover.

Conclusion: A Timeless Adventure that Continues to Enchant

Stonehearth is more than just a game; it is an invitation to embark on a journey of exploration, survival, and creativity. With its procedurally generated worlds, dynamic AI encounters, infinite building possibilities, and thriving modding community, Stonehearth offers a truly unique and immersive gaming experience that will captivate players of all ages.

Whether you are a seasoned gamer seeking a new challenge or a newcomer to the world of indie games, Stonehearth is a must-play experience that will leave an enduring mark on your gaming memories. So gather your settlers, venture into the untamed wilderness, and forge your own destiny in the enchanting realm of Stonehearth.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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