It’s been a little over 30 years since Virtua Fighter first graced arcades, bringing with it a legacy of precision, depth, and unrelenting challenge. Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. is the latest incarnation of the iconic series, and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and SEGA have delivered an enhanced Windows port of Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown (which was first released for the PlayStation 4 in 2021). Yes, 6 is nowhere in sight and it’s worth noting that the base version of Virtua Fighter 5 is almost as old as the franchise at this point, originally debuting in 2006 in Japanese arcades, and 2007 for home consoles.

Upon booting up R.E.V.O., the upgraded visuals take centre stage. The transition to 4K resolution with reworked textures breathes new life into the roster of fighters and arenas, and even with the small details, like cloth physics. Yet, the game wisely retains its signature aesthetic — staying true to the crisp, almost minimalist art style that makes it instantly recognisable. Even so, the game’s age occasionally peeks through, especially in the stiffness of some animations and less detailed environments.

At its core, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. retains the series’ mantra that made it a benchmark in the genre – ‘easy to learn, hard to master’. As a three-button fighter, the execution-heavy nature of Virtua Fighter might intimidate newcomers, but for those who invest the time, the rewards can be great. Matches play out with precise timing, spatial awareness, and a profound understanding of your opponent’s intentions. Unlike other fighters that revel in flashiness, Virtua Fighter 5 opts for a grounded, deliberate approach, and this port retains that sense of authenticity.

The addition of rollback netcode, a type of connection technique that reduces online latency, transforms the online experience. Online matches feel remarkably stable, even in cross-continental battles. Competitive players will find little to complain about here, as R.E.V.O. brings Virtua Fighter firmly into the modern era of online showdowns.

Speaking of, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. is firmly for the competitive fighting game audience. The game’s suite of modes encompasses Arcade, Versus, Training, and Ranked Matches, and nothing more, so while these options are solid, they don’t push any boundaries.

In fact, there’s very little to be had in terms of a single-player experience. Players looking for a wacky story or opportunities to learn more about and connect with the various characters will have to look elsewhere and in this regard, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. faces stiff competition when stacked against its contemporaries like Tekken 8 and Street Fighter 6.

At US$19.99/S$25.80, R.E.V.O. is priced generously, ensuring accessibility for both long-time fans and curious newcomers. Yet, the game isn’t without its quirks. While the rollback netcode is excellent, the matchmaking system could use more refinement to pair players more quickly.

Furthermore, as what is almost certainly the definitive way to play Virtua Fighter 5, R.E.V.O., the game is missing Quest Mode, which was only in the original release of the game. Quest Mode was a fun, open and non-linear mode that tasked players with picking a character and deepening their relationship with them via winning battles and earning currency and items to customise the character’s look.

Customisation options are also highly limited and close to non-existent and instead of packing them in, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and SEGA have opted to sell three DLC packs (Virtua Fighter Legendary Pack DLC, Yakuza Series Collaboration Pack DLC, and TEKKEN 7 Collaboration Pack DLC) at US$10/S$12.90 each, which add character customisation items, costumes, music and stages.

Despite these minor grievances, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. is a triumph for fans of the franchise. The core mechanics remain unmatched in their precision, while the addition of rollback netcode and 4K visuals brings it firmly into the modern era. Though its devotion to competitive purity may alienate some, for fans and those seeking a high-skill, rewarding fighter, this is the definitive Virtua Fighter experience.

At least, until the next Virtua Fighter rolls around.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. – Review appeared first on Geek Culture.

Whether you’re a seasoned card shark or a newbie looking to dive into the origins of Yu-Gi-Oh!, the Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection promises to transport you back to the golden age of shadow duels and pixelated pharaohs.

The collection spans the formative years of Yu-Gi-Oh! gaming, including Game Boy classics like Duel Monsters and Duel Monsters II: Dark Duel Stories, as well as Game Boy Advance fan-favourites like The Sacred Cards and Dungeon Dice Monsters. Each title captures the spirit of the franchise, from card battles to dice-based dungeon escapades.

The full trailer also teases enhanced features, offering modern players a smooth and accessible way to experience these classics, along with online play. Whether you’re battling your friends or reliving Yugi’s rise to King of Games, the collection is a love letter to the fans who’ve stuck with the series through every heart-pounding duel.

The full list of games in the collection includes:

• Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters (1998/GAME BOY)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters II: Dark Duel Stories (1999/GAME BOY, GAME BOY COLOR)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Dark Duel Stories (2000 JP, 2002 US, 2003 EU/GAME BOY COLOR)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters 4: Battle of Great Duelist (2000/GAME BOY COLOR. Includes online battles support).
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Monster Capsule GB (2000 JP/GAME BOY COLOR)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Dungeon Dice Monsters (2001 JP, 2003 US and EU/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh Duel Monsters 6, Expert 2 (2001/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! The Eternal Duelist Soul (2001 JP, 2002 US, 2003 EU/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sacred Cards (2002 JP, 2003 US, 2004 EU/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Reshef of Destruction (2003 JP, 2004 US and EU/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Worldwide Edition: Stairway to the Destined Duel (2003 JP, US, EU/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship Tournament 2004 (2004 JP, US, EU/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Destiny Board Traveler (2004 JP, 2005 US/GAME BOY ADVANCE)
• Yu-Gi-Oh! 7 Trials to Glory: World Championship Tournament 2005 (2004 JP, 2005 US/GAME BOY ADVANCE)

The Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection is set to release on Nintendo Switch and PC (via Steam) on 27 February 2025.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection’ Brings Nostalgia With 14 Classic Games appeared first on Geek Culture.

LEGO has officially announced its collaboration with Netflix to deliver One Piece-inspired LEGO sets. The announcement came with a teaser trailer featuring Luffy’s iconic straw hat in brick form, setting the stage for what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable journey into the Grand Line.

The collection, which LEGO promises will launch “soon,” is based on Netflix’s live-action One Piece adaptation rather than directly on Eiichiro Oda’s legendary manga or anime. However, Netflix’s take on the series has been widely praised for its faithful recreation of key moments and beloved characters, so fans can expect the LEGO sets to stay true to the heart and soul of the One Piece universe.

LEGO is teasing multiple sets inspired by scenes from East Blue, the first major saga of the series. These sets will feature LEGO Minifigure versions of the Straw Hat crew, allowing fans to bring Luffy, Zoro, Nami, Sanji, and Usopp into their collections for the first time. Expect to relive iconic battles and pivotal moments through intricately designed brick-built locations and ships.

“Through every detail of the design process, we’ve worked to meticulously create a collection of playsets that will give fans new ways to live out their own epic voyages into the Grand Line, one special LEGO brick at a time,” said Josh Simon, Netflix’s VP of Consumer Products.

With the second season of Netflix’s live-action One Piece ramping up — featuring exciting new cast members like Lera Abova (Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin) as Nico Robin and Joe Manganiello (Magic Mike XXL) as Crocodile — this collaboration couldn’t have come at a better time. The sets promise to dive deep into One Piece’s excellent world-building, giving fans a chance to recreate scenes like Luffy’s epic ship battles, Zoro’s sword fights, and even Nami’s navigation of the high seas.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post LEGO And Netflix Set Sail With ‘One Piece’ Collaboration appeared first on Geek Culture.

The much-anticipated third anime season of Spy x Family is officially locked in for an October 2025 release, as revealed during the Jump Festa 2025 event. Fans of the Forger family can finally look forward to more thrilling espionage antics with a fresh season set to expand the world of Tatsuya Endo’s beloved manga.

The announcement came with an exclusive commemorative visual crafted by Kazuaki Shimada, the character designer and chief animation director of the series, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come.

Spy x Family made its anime debut in April 2022, premiering its first season in two halves. The first cour aired in spring 2022, followed by the second in October 2022. The second season followed in October 2023, delivering 12 episodes of heart-pounding action, heartfelt family moments, and plenty of comedic chaos.

The franchise also made its cinematic debut with Spy x Family Code: White, an all-original anime film that opened in Japan in December 2023. The movie wasted no time in making a splash, topping the Japanese box office during its opening weekend.

Details are still under wraps on the episode count and number of cours for Spy × Family Season 3.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘Spy × Family’ Season 3 Takes Aim At October 2025 Premiere appeared first on Geek Culture.

After a brief dock to “recharge its engines,” the One Piece anime is gearing up to make a triumphant return in April 2025 to continue the Egghead Arc. Announced at Jump Festa 2025, 6 April 2025 is the official broadcast restart date in Japan, with the anime settling into a brand-new time slot — Sunday nights at 11:15 p.m. JST on Fuji TV. The revamped time aims to keep the excitement alive while likely catering to older fans who have been with the series since its beginning.

To tide fans over during the hiatus, a remastered version of the Fish-Man Island Saga has been airing, refreshing the memories of longtime viewers and introducing the arc to newcomers in enhanced quality. While this nostalgic dive has been a treat, everyone is ready to see Luffy and the Straw Hats set sail into fresh waters once again.

Another big change announced for the anime’s return in 2025 is the arrival of a new voice actor for Franky, the shipwright of the Straw Hat Pirates. Legendary voice actor Kazuki Yao, who brought Franky to life since his introduction in Episode 233 back in 2005, is stepping down from the role due to health reasons. In his place, Subaru Kimura (known for his roles as Gian in Doraemon and Aoi Todo in Jujutsu Kaisen) will take up the mantle of everyone’s favourite cyborg.

Yao has been the voice behind not only Franky but also iconic characters in the series like Bon Clay and Jango. At the Jump Festa panel, Yao bid an emotional farewell to the character he’s voiced for nearly two decades, admitting that stepping away felt like an out-of-body experience. He expressed gratitude for his journey and encouraged fans to embrace his “suuuuper” successor.

The anime’s return isn’t the only big event on the horizon for the One Piece franchise. With WIT Studio working on an anime remake and the highly anticipated second season of Netflix’s live-action series in production, it’s safe to say that 2025 is shaping up to be a year full of treasure for fans.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘One Piece’ Anime Sets Sail Again In April 2025 With Super Changes appeared first on Geek Culture.

It’s official: Capcom is bringing back the Onimusha franchise with an all-new title, Onimusha: Way of the Sword, set to launch in 2026. The long-awaited revival of the samurai action-adventure series was revealed during The Game Awards 2024, giving fans a thrilling glimpse into what’s to come.

The debut trailer showcased an evolution in Onimusha‘s gameplay, discarding the fixed camera angles reminiscent of early Resident Evil titles and instead embracing fully 3D combat to deliver a fluid and cinematic experience.

The protagonist — who bears a striking resemblance to Samanosuke, the iconic hero from the first Onimusha game — was shown in action, taking down samurai zombies with brutal, stylish swordplay. Classic mechanics like soul absorption, a hallmark of the series, make their triumphant return, as golden orbs swirl into the protagonist’s weapon. The gameplay also teased dynamic finishers and a tense boss battle, giving fans a taste of the challenge and spectacle awaiting them.

For Onimusha veterans, this marks the series’ first mainline console entry since Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams in 2006. The last time fans got to experience the world of Onimusha was through the 2018 remaster of the original game for modern consoles and PC. It’s been nearly two decades, and Capcom appears ready to reintroduce the franchise to a new generation of players.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post TGA 2024: ‘Onimusha’ Resurfaces After Almost 20 Years With ‘Way Of The Sword’ appeared first on Geek Culture.

FromSoftware just dropped a bombshell at The Game Awards 2024 with the announcement of Elden Ring Nightreign, the next entry in the Elden Ring series.

While the trailer left much of the plot shrouded in mystery, it showed off gameplay largely familiar to the Elden Ring base game, with a notable distinction — co-op combat. Several scenes in the trailer showcased multiple Tarnished battling together, pulling off synchronised attacks and impressive, acrobatic moves.

Just this month, FromSoftware studio president and game director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared that a sequel to Elden Ring isn’t in the works. Earlier in the year, Miyazaki had also said that there are no plans for a second DLC to the game beyond Shadow of the Erdtree. Technically these details could still be true; The Game Awards host Geoff Keighley prefaced the trailer by describing the surprise as “a brand new, standalone game”. Instead of being a direct sequel, Nightreign could very well be a prequel, possibly detailing the events that shaped the Lands Between before the chaos of Elden Ring and its DLC, Shadows of the Erdtree.

Elden Ring Nightreign is slated to launch across PS4, PS5, Xbox platforms, and PC via Steam in 2025.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post TGA 2024: ‘Elden Ring Nightreign’ Spin-Off Shows Co-Op Action, Surprises Fans appeared first on Geek Culture.

Pokémon TCG Pocket has launched to meteoric success. In just its first month, the game is estimated to have raked in over $200 million, leaving Pokémon Unite and Pokémon Sleep in its dust. According to figures from AppMagic, reported by PocketGamer.biz, the app hit US$208 million by 29 November 2024, after going live on 30 October.

This free-to-play app allows players to buy extra booster packs, cosmetics, and a US$9.99/S$14.98 monthly Premium Pass, which rewards users with one booster pack daily and exclusive promo cards. Early data from AppMagic revealed that the game was pulling in an impressive US$3 million daily just days after launch. Fast forward to now, and the app’s daily revenue has nearly doubled, averaging US$6.5 million per day.

The allure of the digital platform isn’t just in its gameplay but also in the chase for collectible cards. The game’s debut set, Genetic Apex, features 226 cards, including 60 alternate art variants. Completing the set could take over two years of dedicated free play — or around US$1,500 for those willing to pay to accelerate their progress. And for players aiming for a ‘complete’ collection? Promo cards locked behind the Premium Pass ensure that spending money is unavoidable.

Pokémon TCG Pocket has not only revived the nostalgia of collecting cards but also adapted it for the modern, mobile-centric gaming audience. With developer Creatures Inc. planning to release a smaller expansion in December and a major second set in January, the app’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a nostalgic card collector or a modern gamer, this game has clearly struck gold — or at least, US$200 million worth of it.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘Pokémon TCG Pocket’ Estimated To Hit $200M In First Month, Dethrones ‘Pokémon Unite’ And ‘Sleep’ appeared first on Geek Culture.

Star Wars: Visions is making a triumphant return in 2025. Disney and Lucasfilm confirmed the third season of the celebrated anthology series at the 2024 Disney APAC Content Showcase.

Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 will rekindle its anime origins with nine animated shorts from some of Japan’s top-tier anime studios. Studios on board include heavyweights like Studio Trigger (Cyberpunk: Edgerunners), WIT Studio (Spy × Family), and Production I.G (Ghost in the Shell). Other contributors include David Production (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure), Kamikaze Douga (Batman Ninja), Kinema Citrus (Made in Abyss), Polygon Pictures (Knights of Sidonia), ANIMA (Altered Carbon: Resleeved), and Project Studio Q, a CG animation studio founded by Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno.

“The award-winning anthology of animated short films celebrates the mythology of Star Wars through unique cultural lenses,” Disney and Lucasfilm teased, highlighting how Visions promises an ambitious blend of talent, artistry, and storytelling from some of the anime industry’s distinct creative voices.

Originally debuting in 2021, Star Wars: Visions offered a largely anime-inspired take on the galaxy far, far away. While Season 2 branched out to include perspectives from global creators, Season 3 returns to its roots, delivering a pure anime-driven vision. Unlike the main Star Wars saga, these shorts aren’t considered canon (yet), freeing them to explore bold, stand-alone stories steeped in the mythology and wonder of George Lucas’ beloved universe.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘Star Wars: Visions’ Season 3 Reignites Anime Spark With All-Star Studio Line-Up appeared first on Geek Culture.

Deadpool & Wolverine, Marvel Studios’ latest blockbuster, debuted on Disney+ on 12 November 2024, raking in an impressive 19.4 million views globally within its first six days. According to Disney, this achievement makes it the most-watched live-action film on Disney+ or Hulu since Black Panther: Wakanda Forever made its streaming debut in early 2023.

For some context, Disney reported earlier this year that Inside Out 2, the hit animated sequel, garnered 30.5 million views in its first five days on Disney+. While Deadpool & Wolverine might not have reached those animated heights, it has firmly established itself as a standout among Marvel’s live-action releases.

Originally hitting theaters in July 2024, Deadpool & Wolverine marked Ryan Reynolds’ long-awaited MCU debut as Deadpool, while Hugh Jackman donned Wolverine’s claws once again after his farewell to the character in Logan. The film’s multiversal storyline saw Deadpool teaming up with an alternate-timeline Wolverine to thwart the TVA’s (Time Variance Authority) plans to destroy Deadpool’s universe.

Adding to its star-studded appeal, the movie brought back familiar faces from Marvel’s cinematic past, alongside new characters never seen on screen. With a reported US$200 million budget, Deadpool & Wolverine became a financial juggernaut, grossing over US$1.3 billion worldwide. Now, with its streaming numbers skyrocketing, it’s clear that Deadpool and Wolverine are significant draws for Marvel.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Slashes Streaming Records With 19.4 Million Views On Disney+ appeared first on Geek Culture.

Universal Studios just dropped the first trailer for the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon. Directed by Dean DeBlois — who also helmed the animated originals — the movie is set to soar into theaters on 13 June 2025, bringing the Isle of Berk to life like never before.

The film reintroduces all the iconic characters we know and love, but with a fresh cast. Mason Thames (The Black Phone) takes on the role of Hiccup, Nico Parker (The Last of Us, Dumbo) stars as Astrid, and Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2) portrays Fishlegs. Gerard Butler returns to the franchise to play Stoick the Vast, reprising his role from the animated trilogy.

The trailer teases a faithful recreation of the franchise’s heartwarming origin story, following Hiccup’s unexpected friendship with the adorable yet fearsome Toothless. Expect stunning visuals, nods to the original films, and the epic dragon-human bond that captivated audiences more than a decade ago.

Based on Cressida Cowell’s book series, the How to Train Your Dragon franchise has already achieved legendary status. With three blockbuster films, TV series spin-offs, theme park attractions, and even an ice show, it has raked in over US$1.6 billion globally. This live-action adaptation is shaping up to be both a nostalgic journey for longtime fans and an exciting entry point for newcomers to experience the magic of dragons and Vikings.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post Live-Action ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ Soars In Film Trailer appeared first on Geek Culture.

The Yakuza (rebranded in 2020 as Like a Dragon to align with its Japanese name, Ryū ga Gotoku) video game franchise by SEGA is a unique blend of action, crime drama, and over-the-top humour. Initially launched in 2005, this series has become beloved for its storytelling that dives deep into the lives of complex characters, particularly its stoic protagonist Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza, which means Japanese crime syndicate, with a heart of gold.

The franchise is known for balancing intense, melodramatic crime narratives with quirky, often absurd side activities like karaoke, arcades, and even managing cabaret clubs. This mix has made Yakuza a beloved experience, offering players everything from brutal brawls with rival gang members to heartwarming moments with strangers they meet on the streets.

In its 2020 entry, the series took a bold new direction with Yakuza: Like a Dragon, introducing a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and switching from real-time combat to turn-based RPG-style battles. This fresh approach has allowed the franchise to evolve while staying true to its unique blend of serious storytelling and eccentric humour.

The Like a Dragon: Yakuza TV series on Amazon Prime Video, released this year, promised fans of the long-running game franchise a live-action adaptation that would bring the gritty, emotional, and often hilariously over-the-top world of Kamurocho to life. Unfortunately, instead of delivering the high-stakes drama, mixed with heartwarming character moments and offbeat humour, that fans have come to expect from the Yakuza (or Like a Dragon) games, the show stumbled, leaving many fans disappointed.

One of the core issues with Amazon’s Like a Dragon adaptation is its portrayal of Kazuma Kiryu. In the games, Kiryu is a paragon of honour who navigates Japan’s dangerous underworld with both brutal strength and a soft heart. He’s not just a tough yakuza, but a deeply moral figure driven by a strict code of ethics, making his conflicts — and occasional absurd antics — all the more compelling.

Ryoma Takeuchi’s (Kamen Rider Drive) depiction of the character fails to capture the spirit of his video game counterpart. Kiryu’s motivations in the series feel muddled and inconsistent, lacking the clear-cut sense of justice that grounds his character. Instead of embodying the stoic yet compassionate hero, Amazon’s Kiryu feels like a diluted version, caught between conflicting narratives that don’t coalesce into a coherent arc. Furthermore, his desire for his iconic ‘Dragon of Dojima’ title signals the show’s deep misunderstanding of the character, upsetting fans across Japan and the West alike.

This issue might come down to the cast entering production with a relatively limited understanding of the source material, relying mostly on cultural impressions rather than direct experience. They were actually told not to play the games so that they could approach their characters with fresh perspectives. This method aimed to let them interpret their roles in new ways, but it meant missing some of the deeper nuances that longtime fans have come to love about the original series.

The action choreography and cinematography further dampen the experience. Fans of the games know that brawls in Yakuza are supposed to be intense, with brutal street-fighting mixed with cinematic flair. Yet, in Amazon’s version, the fight scenes are bland and lack the dynamic choreography that fans expected, with shaky camera work and uninspired editing that robs the combat of its impact.

Ironically, fans looking for a live-action take on Like a Dragon would be better off watching Takeshi Miike’s 2007 film, Like a Dragon (Ryū ga Gotoku). While Miike’s adaptation takes some liberties, it manages to capture the spirit of the games more faithfully, blending raw action with surreal humour and emotional storytelling.

Miike, a director known for his bold, unconventional style, understood the tone of Yakuza, infusing the film with the right mix of chaos and heart that makes the games so unique. Though it might not be a perfect adaptation, Miike’s film at least respects the key aspects of Kiryu and the world he inhabits, something that the Amazon series struggles with.

But perhaps the most surprising and best adaptation of Yakuza isn’t a film or a TV show — it’s a stage play. While a stage play might seem like an odd medium for a story about gritty crime and brawling gangsters, this adaptation actually captures the heart and humour of Yakuza more authentically than Amazon’s show.

The stage play, unlike the Amazon series, understands that Like a Dragon is as much about character relationships and emotional beats as it is about action. The play presents Kiryu and his comrades in a way that highlights their humanity and their loyalty to each other, grounding the fantastical elements of the series in real emotional stakes. Additionally, the intimate nature of theatre brings a certain rawness and immediacy to Kiryu’s story. The actors’ performances are more nuanced, and despite the limitations of a stage production, the choreography and direction convey the intensity and heart of Yakuza’s iconic battles and storylines.

While Amazon’s Like a Dragon series has sadly missed the mark, it’s reassuring to know that better adaptations exist. Whether you dive into Miike’s chaotic, darkly humorous film or the surprisingly heartfelt stage play, both options offer a far more faithful tribute to Yakuza’s unique blend of pathos and madness. It’s a testament to the versatility of Kiryu Kazuma’s story that it can thrive across different mediums — even in places as unexpected as the theatre — while a high-budget TV series fails to capture what makes Like a Dragon special.

For fans who want to see Yakuza done right, Miike’s film and the stage play are readily available on the Internet Archive and YouTube respectively, offering a genuine Like a Dragon experience that Amazon’s series, unfortunately, couldn’t deliver.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post Superior ‘Like a Dragon’ Live-Action? Yes, Just Not On Amazon appeared first on Geek Culture.

When it comes to gaming genres, few experiences are as satisfying as a well-crafted mystery, be it a whodunit, legal thriller, or suspense drama. And if you’ve watched the first 10 minutes of a police procedural and already figured out the mystery and know who the criminal is, then suit up for some mystery games that have the unique ability to pull players into their worlds, challenging them to think critically and engage with immersive storytelling.

Whether you’re deciphering a cryptic clue, interrogating suspects, or navigating complex relationships, a good mystery game can deliver experiences that linger long after the credits roll. Here’s a roundup of some of the best mystery video games with plenty of thrills and intrigue.

1. Ace Attorney Investigations Collection

Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$54.10
Release date: 6 September 2024

The Ace Attorney series is known for its over-the-top characters, intense cross-examinations, and thrilling “Objection!” moments. Ace Attorney Investigations Collections, which assembles the spin-offs Ace Attorney Investigations and its sequel into one package, maintains this electrifying yet lighthearted spirit. Starring prosecutor Miles Edgeworth, it brings the crime scene to the foreground while the courtroom drama takes a backseat, tasking players with poking around crime scenes, collecting evidence, making observations, and interrogating suspects.

Notably, the game’s Logic system allows players to manually make connections between two pieces of information and draw new conclusions, testing their deductive reasoning in the process. With engaging dialogue and tense cases, Ace Attorney Investigations offers a unique blend of mystery and comedy.

2. Case of the Golden Idol

Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
Price: S$17
Release date: 13 October 2022

Case of the Golden Idol is a standout mystery game due to its unique investigative gameplay and open-ended puzzle-solving mechanics. Players are tasked with uncovering the truth behind a series of deaths, using clues scattered throughout each scene to piece together motives, identities, and methods.

What makes the game particularly engaging is its lack of hand-holding; players must rely entirely on their observational skills and deductive reasoning to connect the dots. Its visual style, which features detailed, hand-drawn pixel art, adds to the immersive experience, bringing each eerie crime scene to life. Additionally, the game’s story unfolds gradually, presenting players with interconnected cases that reveal a larger, sinister conspiracy.

A sequel to the game, Rise of the Golden Idol, releases on 12 November 2024.

3. Chants of Sennaar

Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$23.90
Release date: 5 September 2023

Chants of Sennaar combines exploration and linguistic puzzles to create an immersive and thought-provoking experience. Set in a beautifully crafted world inspired by the myth of the Tower of Babel, players are tasked with deciphering unknown languages to bridge the communication gaps between isolated cultures. This unique mechanic encourages players to pay close attention to symbols, context, and environmental clues, rewarding observation and patience with gradual understanding.

The game’s art style is striking, with vibrant colours and intricate designs that give each area a distinct cultural identity. Its narrative is subtle yet engaging, unfolding through the player’s translation progress and interactions with characters from various factions. The blend of exploration, language puzzle-solving, and world-building makes Chants of Sennaar a standout for fans of narrative-driven mystery games who enjoy piecing together stories through discovery and intuition.

4. Duck Detective: The Secret Salami

Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$10
Release date: 23 May 2024

If Case of the Golden Idol’s twisted art style feels like too much, Duck Detective: The Secret Salami presents a worthy alternative. It combines humour, clever puzzles, and charming characters to create a unique detective experience. Players take on the role of a hard-boiled duck detective navigating a noir-inspired world filled with quirky anthropomorphic suspects and intriguing clues. Similar to Case of the Golden Idol, players are tasked with gathering keywords from clues to fill in the blanks of the case files. 

But don’t be fooled by the lighthearted tone — it takes some serious deduc(k)tive reasoning to put these clues together.

5. Her Story

Platform(s): PC, iOS, Android
Price: S$10
Release date: 24 June 2015

Her Story is an FMV (full-motion video) game with one of the most unique mystery experiences out there. The game centres around watching archived police interview footage, which are fragmented and accessible only through a search engine-style interface, to solve a mystery.

Each clip is a piece of a larger puzzle, and it’s up to players to connect the dots. By searching through video snippets and listening carefully for clues and keywords, more of the story unravels. The game’s innovative approach to storytelling and lack of hand-holding invites players to become a true investigator.

6. L.A. Noire

Platform(s): PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$27.90
Release date: 17 May 2011

Set against the moody backdrop of 1940s Los Angeles, L.A. Noire places players in the shoes of Detective Cole Phelps. To solve a series of cases, the game involves investigating crime scenes, interrogating suspects, and making choices that influence the story’s direction. Its realistic facial animations make reading suspects’ expressions part of the gameplay, a unique element that adds to the immersion. 

Developed by Rockstar Games, the title blends open-world exploration with a captivating storyline, delivering a classic noir experience.

7. Outer Wilds

Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$25
Release date: 28 May 2019

While not a traditional mystery game, Outer Wilds offers one of the most captivating mysteries in gaming. Playing as an astronaut trapped in a time loop, the game involves exploring a miniature solar system to uncover the secrets of an ancient civilisation and the reason behind the endless cycle. The game’s open-ended exploration, coupled with the ticking clock of impending destruction, creates an experience that is equal parts wonder and tension, as players slowly piece together a mystery of cosmic proportions.

8. Return of the Obra Dinn

Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$18.50
Release date: 18 October 2018

Developed by Lucas Pope (creator of Papers, Please), Return of the Obra Dinn plunges players into the role of an insurance investigator tasked with uncovering the fate of the crew on the titular ship, the Obra Dinn. Armed with a magical pocket watch, players explore fragmented memories of the deceased to deduce who they were, how they died, and who or what was responsible. The unique monochromatic, 1-bit art style and brain-bending narrative make it a haunting experience that is as beautiful as it is challenging.

9. Shadows of Doubt

Platform(s): PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Price: S$22
Release date: 26 September 2024

Shadows of Doubt offers a fully immersive, sandbox experience in a procedurally-generated city where every non-player character (NPC) has their own routines, relationships, and secrets. Set in a noir-inspired, cyberpunk world, it lets players step into the shoes of a detective and freely investigate crimes, such as murders and thefts, by collecting evidence, tracking suspects, and piecing together clues.

The game excels in its attention to detail — players can examine fingerprints, break into apartments, read private emails, and even rummage through trash bins for hidden clues. The freedom to approach cases in multiple ways adds layers of realism, making every investigation feel personal and unique. With its dynamic AI-driven world, Shadows of Doubt offers endless replayability, as new mysteries and interactions keep emerging with each playthrough.

10. Unheard – Voices of Crime

Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$10
Release date: 29 March 2019

Unheard – Voices of Crime is an innovative mystery game that brings a fresh twist to detective work by focusing entirely on audio-based investigations. In this game, players listen to recordings of past conversations in crime scenes and piece together clues solely from voices, background sounds, and timelines. This unique mechanic allows players to ‘hear’ the story unfold from multiple perspectives, challenging them to follow conversations across different rooms and connect dialogue snippets to uncover the truth.

By identifying individual voices and analysing conversations, players reconstruct the events and motivations behind each crime. The game’s minimalist visual approach combined with complex, layered audio design makes every case feel immersive and requires keen attention to detail.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post 10 Mystery Games To Satisfy Your Inner Sleuth appeared first on Geek Culture.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind, developed by Digital Eclipse, drops on 10 December, hitting consoles and PC for the ultimate retro arcade experience that the Power Rangers have always deserved but never got.

In Rita’s Rewind, a new threat looms as Robo-Rita, a cybernetic version of the Rangers’ iconic nemesis, teams up with her younger self to try and erase the Rangers from history. This time-twisting adventure takes players back to the very beginning of the franchise, remixing key moments and unleashing classic villains in a bold, action-packed twist on nostalgia.

However, Digital Eclipse isn’t just creating another simple brawler. Rita’s Rewind blends genres to keep the gameplay fresh. With a classic 2D brawler foundation, the game also pulls from Sega’s legendary super-scaler games like Space Harrier and After Burner, mixing in racing sequences, arcade-style shooting, and first-person Megazord battles for a unique, genre-hopping experience. From piloting Dinozords through canyon chases to slugging it out as the Megazord against supersized foes like Goldar, this game promises relentless action and Power Rangers nostalgia at every turn.

For fans of retro games, Rita’s Rewind is designed to feel like a love letter to the era of ’90s arcades — an homage to the intense, frenetic energy of coin-op classics but with the benefit of 30 years of gaming evolution.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind will be available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. The game will be priced at US$34.99/S$29.00 but pre-orders are available at a 15 percent-off discount price.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post Nostalgic Brawler ‘Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind’ To Go Go In December appeared first on Geek Culture.

The Scary Movie franchise is officially back in business, and it’s bringing the original comedic architects along for the ride. After an 18-year hiatus, the Wayans family — Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory Wayans — are reuniting to write and produce an all-new Scary Movie reboot, aiming to revive the same gut-busting spoof energy that made the franchise a household name in the early 2000s. The new film is set to begin shooting next year with a planned theatrical release.

Miramax boss Jonathan Glickman couldn’t hold back his excitement, sharing, “We are thrilled to reunite Scary Movie with the Wayans brothers, the brilliant creators behind the beloved franchise. The timing is perfect to bring back the series to the big screen and we’re lucky to have Keenen, Marlon and Shawn’s unique comedic vision bringing it to audiences around the world.”

In an official statement, Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen reflected on the legacy of Scary Movie, “We couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the new Scary Movie and work with each other again. This is a franchise we created more than 20 years ago. We remember people laughing in the aisles and hope to see that happen again. We look forward to working with Jonathan Glickman and his team at the new Miramax to bring these laughs to theaters, where they belong. It’s a double reunion.”

The Scary Movie series made a seismic impact on pop culture, hilariously lampooning slasher hits like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer, and raking in a colossal $896 million worldwide across its five installments. The original 2000 film not only set the bar for horror-comedies but also broke records with its $42.5 million opening, marking the biggest debut for an R-rated horror comedy and a Black director at that time. With the reboot, Scary Movie is set to be distributed by Paramount Pictures under their first-look deal with Miramax, while Miramax Motion Picture Group President Becky Sloviter is overseeing the project on the studio’s end.

Meanwhile, Marlon Wayans is keeping busy. He’s gearing up for his role in Justin Tipping’s psychological sports thriller HIM, produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, which is slated for a 2025 release. He’s also on his nationwide Wild Child comedy tour, proving the Wayans are still a comedy force to be reckoned with.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post ‘Scary Movie’ Reboot Reunites Wayans Brothers After 18 Years appeared first on Geek Culture.