Hello and welcome back to our regular feature where we dive into the games we've been playing recently. This week, we’re excited to talk about the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong. This release has been a historic event in the gaming community, causing various gaming stores to break records. But that's not the only game we've been enjoying, so let’s explore what else has captured our attention. Don't forget to check out our What We've Been Playing archive to catch up on previous editions!
I'm currently immersed in No Man's Sky on PC, which remains captivating despite the hype around Silksong. The recent ship-building update has added a layer of creativity that is hard to resist. Even though my ship designs are nowhere near the complex creations of others, the grind of excavating components is oddly satisfying. It's the perfect blend of monotony and beauty for those evenings when you just want to relax and escape reality.
What’s taken me by surprise, however, is my newfound obsession with the palaeontology system introduced earlier this year. I've been racing across planets, unearthing prehistoric bones to expand my growing collection. The thrill of assembling these fossils onto plinths allows for an immersive experience, as I can curate an entire museum to showcase to my friends. It’s fascinating how No Man's Sky offers so many distractions that I’m considering building a traveling exhibition ship for a cosmic tour!
On the Switch 2, I find joy in the chaos of Untitled Goose Game. Picture this: it’s raining, it’s dark outside, and I’m wrapped in a cozy blanket while wreaking havoc as a mischievous goose. This game brings me sheer joy, and it's the perfect escape on a gloomy night. There’s something liberating about being an agent of chaos, and it’s an experience I return to time and again.
When it comes to Soulsborne games, Bloodborne is one of my favorites. I've recently decided to pursue the platinum trophy, but I may have bitten off more than I can chew. While Elden Ring’s New Game Plus felt like a victorious romp, Bloodborne's equivalent is proving to be a frustrating challenge. Despite this, I’ve been exploring the notorious Chalice Dungeon for a much-needed blood boost, pushing myself to overcome my impatience.
Earlier this week, I took a detour from Silksong to play Herdlings on PC. This game is a delightful, artistic journey that strays from traditional gameplay mechanics. It’s about guiding furry creatures out of a city and into the wilderness, evoking a strong emotional response rather than focusing solely on gameplay. The lack of overt direction allows players to engage their imagination, creating unique stories for each creature. This gentle approach is surprisingly powerful and memorable.
As for Hollow Knight: Silksong, I’m fully engrossed. I clocked in about seven hours of gameplay on its launch night, and it’s proving to be an exceptional experience. As a fan of Metroidvanias, I find that Team Cherry’s latest effort resonates deeply with me. The musical direction and world design, centered around bells and sound, create an immersive atmosphere that I hope will continue to captivate me in the days ahead.
In anticipation of Silksong and the upcoming Indiana Jones DLC, I’ve been exploring various demos on Switch 2, including Agatha Christie - Murder on the Orient Express. As a fan of murder mysteries, I was curious about this title. While the demo had its shortcomings, particularly with easy puzzles, it successfully evoked nostalgia for my own trip on the Orient Express. Although I won’t be playing the full game, it was a pleasant way to spend an evening.
This week, I’ve been diving into Football Manager 24 on PC amidst a busy schedule. I’m currently managing a save called Amorim’s United, where I’m sticking to Ruben Amorim’s tactics. With some community data mods in play, I’m navigating a season reminiscent of last year, and I’m proud to say my team is seven points clear at the top! If only Sir Jim would call me!
In a fun twist, my primary focus this week has been on NFL Fantasy Football, which involves no traditional gaming at all. After participating in our fantasy draft, the real excitement begins as the season kicks off. I’ll be keeping a close eye on my team's performance, and the stats and strategies remind me of my favorite role-playing games. It’s a numbers game at its core, and that’s why it appeals to my RPG-loving brain.
What have you been playing this week? Share your gaming experiences with us!