Sports - Act 5 - MotoGP

Just like Formula 1, the MotoGP series has long been the go-to choice for motorcycle racing enthusiasts, offering an exhilarating experience that puts players in the saddle of high-powered bikes. With the provision of realistic graphics, realistic sim gameplay and authentic representation of the sport, MotoGP has become a staple for racing fans. The game faithfully recreates the speed, precision, and excitement of MotoGP racing those enthusiasts and follower of the sport watch/experience on TV. From the iconic circuits to the detailed bike models, the attention to detail in this game is spectacular. The game also extends to the real physics and handling of the bikes, capturing the risks and rewards of real-world motorcycle racing. The feeling of leaning into turns, controlling the throttle, managing tire wear, and battling for position against fierce AI opponents or online players creates an authentic and immersive racing experience. Moreover, MotoGP offers a variety of game modes that cater to different player preferences. Just like the Formula 1 series, the game offers immersive career mode, where players can rise through the ranks and compete against the best riders in the world in e-sports simulation tournaments, to the fast-paced online multiplayer races, there's a mode for every racing fan. The depth and variety of game modes provide hours of entertainment and keep players engaged. MotoGP is also one of the few games that really improves its mechanics, game design, graphics, animations and bike philosophy every year to make racing more fun and competitive.

There is not much to dislike about this game series except the fact that for some players, especially new players, the learning curve may be quite steep. The difficulty of handling the bike on every track condition and mastering braking may not be in the cards for many players, causing them to be frustrated and overwhelmed by the game. Also, due to the lack of tutorials, there are no easy settings or easy game modes in the game for those who have just started playing the game. However, all in all, the game is really solid both in technical and visual terms and has a dedicated fan base that is growing each day.

MotoGP series review rating (9/10)

Sports - Act 4 - WWE 2K

WWE is one of the most famous sports/entertainment universe in the world. Previously known as the “Smackdown Vs Raw” series, the WWE 2K series is the direct representation of the sport and has been the go-to choice for fans of professional wrestling, offering a chance to step into the virtual ring and experience the thrill and drama of WWE. With its roster of iconic superstars and big names like “John Cena”, “The Rock”, “Roman Reigns, intricate gameplay mechanics and controls and immersive career modes, WWE 2K has been a staple for wrestling enthusiasts. Talking about game features, WWE 2K series is famous for its extensive roster, featuring a wide array of past and present WWE superstars and wrestling events like “SummerSlam”, “WrestleMania” and many more. The ability to play as beloved legends like “Hulk Hogan” or current fan favorites adds an element of nostalgia and excitement. The attention to detail in replicating their signature moves, finishers, entrance songs and animations, and ring gear is commendable, creating a sense of authenticity for fans of the wrestling world. Moreover, WWE 2K offers a variety of game modes, including the popular MyCareer mode, where players can create their own wrestler and guide them through their journey from the bottom of the ranks to championship glory. The ability to customize and upgrade your character, participate in different storylines, and interact with other wrestlers brings a sense of progression and personalization to the game.

However, the WWE 2K series has faced criticism for its lack of innovation and failure to evolve over the years. Each new installment often feels like a mere roster update with just the overall of characters changed and with minimal improvements to gameplay mechanics, controls, animations and visuals. This lack of significant innovation can lead to a sense of repetition for a lot of players and the game could get boring over time. Furthermore, the WWE 2K series has been faced by technical issues, mainly including glitches, frame rate drops, questionable AI behavior and unknown settings of the game that cannot be toggled on/off. These technical shortcomings can disrupt the overall enjoyment of the game, other than that, the game seems pretty solid to this day and has no competition in the genre.

WWE 2K series review rating (8.25/10)

Sports - Act 3 - NBA 2K

The NBA 2K series has long been regarded as the premier basketball video game franchise. Also made by EA Sports game studio, the game is the exact virtual representation of the real NBA, owning the copyrights and license of athlete names, teams and stadiums, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience for fans of the sport. With its realistic graphics, engaging gameplay, robust game modes like the “My Career” mode, NBA 2K has become a staple for basketball enthusiasts. A standout features of the NBA 2K series is its stunning visual presentation as the game consistently pushes the boundaries of graphics and animation, capturing the essence of NBA basketball with lifelike models, detailed arenas, and realistic crowd reactions. The attention to detail extends to player animations, signature moves, celebrations and facial expressions, enhancing the immersion and authenticity of the experience. As mentioned above, NBA 2K offers a wide range of game modes that cater to different player preferences where players can create their own basketball player and guide them through their career, to the competitive online modes like MyTeam and Pro-Am, there's no shortage of content to explore. The depth and variety of game modes provide hours of entertainment and keep players coming back for more every year when a new updated installment of the game is released.

Where the game is great, it sure has some issues that need to be addressed. The NBA 2K series has faced criticism for its heavy reliance on micro-transactions, just like the FIFA series. In-game currency is often required to unlock player upgrades, cosmetic items, celebrations, character skins and additional content. This pay-to-win model has been a point of contention among players, as it can create an uneven and unfair playing field and detract from the overall enjoyment of the game when played online with competitive players. The series has also been accused of stagnation and a lack of innovation. While each new installment may introduce minor improvements and updates, the core gameplay experience remains largely unchanged.

NBA 2K series review rating (7.75/10)

Sports - Act 2 - Formula1

The Formula 1 series has long been the pinnacle of virtual and simulation racing, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience that puts players in the driver's seat of the world's most prestigious motorsport. With its realistic graphics, immersive gameplay, and attention to detail in cars, tracks and characters, the series has developed a dedicated fan base of racing enthusiasts. One of the standout features of the Formula 1 series is its commitment to realism. The game recreates the thrilling world of Formula 1, from iconic circuits like Monaco, the streets of Baku, to the meticulously designed cars and teams like Red Bull and Ferrari. The attention to detail in capturing the nuances of the sport, including tire wear, weather conditions, aerodynamics effect of the car and team strategy, adds an authentic layer of challenge and strategy for racers. Moreover, the Formula 1 series offers an immersive career mode that allows players to rise through the ranks and compete against the best drivers in the world in online ranked tournaments and championship. The ability to customize and develop your own driver, negotiate contracts, and manage the team brings a sense of progression and personalization to the game. The excitement of competing in high-stakes races and competing for championship glory is a true test of skill and strategy just like the real sport.

Talking about the game’s drawbacks, Formula 1 series has faced criticism for its steep learning curve, making it less accessible to casual players. The intricate controls and realistic handling of the cars require time and practice to master, which can be overwhelming for newcomers as they cannot change the difficulty settings of the game. The lack of comprehensive tutorials or beginner-friendly modes may also be a hindrance those who are less familiar with the sport. Furthermore, the series has occasionally fallen short in terms of innovation and iteration. Each year's release often introduces minor improvements and updates, but the core gameplay experience remains largely unchanged. However, despite these minor and individualistic drawbacks, Formula1 is still the only game in the genre which gets the closest to real track racing.

Formula 1 series review rating (8.5/10)

Sports - Act 1 - FIFA

The FIFA series has long been the primary choice for football enthusiasts, offering a virtual experience that aims to replicate the thrill and excitement of the beautiful sport. One of the standout features of the FIFA series is its comprehensive licensing, allowing players to control their favorite teams and players from around the world from actual and real football clubs and international teams. The attention to detail in recreating authentic stadiums, player recognition technology and accurate team kits adds an immersive layer to the game. The feeling of leading your favorite club/country to victory, scoring spectacular goals, and celebrating with iconic animations are reasons why football fans love this game so much. As mentioned before, FIFA is the only football game, made by “EA Sports” game studio that owns the rights and copyright to player names, team names, etc. This is the reason other football games like “PES” cannot have teams and players with these names, which eliminates the authenticity factor and is the reason why almost all players prefer FIFA over PES. Other than that the game mechanics get updated every year, while some players hate this, others enjoy and welcome the challenge of the game being more realistic. From the traditional Career Mode, where players can take charge of their favorite clubs and shape their destinies, to the fast-paced action of online multiplayer in Ultimate Team, there's something for every player.

However, the FIFA series has come under fire for its lack of meaningful innovation and iterative gameplay. Each year's release often feels like a mere roster update, which is the number one complaint of players, with minimal improvements to gameplay mechanics and visuals. This lack of innovation can lead to a sense of stagnation and disappointment among players who expect more substantial changes with each new installment. Other than that, the micro-transaction system and loot boxes have raised concerns about the game’s fairness, leaving a sour taste for some players. While the game has its issues every year, it is still a great game unrivalled in the genre.

FIFA series review rating (7.75/10)

Open World - Act 5 - Minecraft

Minecraft is an absolute gem of a game that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. From its simplistic blocky graphics to its boundless creativity, Minecraft offers a truly unique and immersive experience that is unlike any other. Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore builder, there's something for everyone in this virtual world. Players who play this game do not play for the graphics or storyline as the game provides an endless world with endless possibilities that can be built by the players and could be shared with the community. Minecraft’s limitless potential for creativity provides players with a vast and procedurally generated world, where they can shape and build to their heart's content. From constructing grand cities and towering castles to designing intricate contraptions, the possibilities are truly endless. The joy of seeing your ideas come to life block by block is unmatched, and the sense of accomplishment is indescribable. Whether a player plays the game on a console, PC or a mobile phone, the sense of exploration in Minecraft is unparalleled. The game's day-night cycle and the dangers that lurk in the dark add an element of suspense and excitement, making each expedition feel like a true journey. Whether playing with friends or joining its community, the collaborative nature of the game fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences.

Still, Minecraft is not without its flaws. The game's visuals, while charming in their simplicity, can be off-putting for those seeking more realistic graphics. Additionally, the learning curve for new players can be steep, as the game lacks clear instructions or tutorials. Figuring out the mechanics and systems may require some trial and error, which can be frustrating for new players. Lastly, the game receives no updates whatsoever and players easily get bored of doing the same quests and exploring very quickly. However, all in all, the purpose of the game on why and how it must be played is always understood by the players and players still play it with the same excitement to this day.

Minecraft game review rating (8.75/10)

Open World - Act 4 - Elden Ring

Elden Ring is relatively a new game, launched in February 2022 that is the sequel to the famous game series "Dark Souls". The game was an overnight success as it is unlike any other action-adventure game, building on vast imaginative worlds, aliens and creatures that are unlike the human race, weapons and character abilities that represent magical prowess, etc. The Game has one of the biggest and detailed maps in the entire gaming industry, thus making it a large game to download and only playable on next generation consoles like Xbox Series X, PS5 and powerful PC's. Starting with hundreds of options to choose from while designing your playable character, Elden Ring provides players to use their critical thinking in forging weapons, creating magic/spells and forming strategies to team up and defeat bosses or take part in duels that require focus and immense grind. Other than that, players are free to explore the map, ride horses, fight players online, indulge in side-quests and farm materials so they can level-up their character and its abilities. The customizability, fresh concepts and artistic ambitions and unraveling mysteries are all aspects players really enjoy while playing Elden Ring. 

Like any other game, Elden Ring too has many aspects which are not liked by the players as well as the gaming community. The game does not have a difficulty setting which players could toggle and play the game on the difficulty they desire, making the game hard to play for 80% of the players. The game also does not have any tutorial, guide or any progressing directions which players could follow, making it frustrating and confusing for players to know how to progress in the storyline and complete the game. despite these things, the game mechanics and technical side of the game works brilliantly and all these reasons combined is why the studios and the game itself won "Game of the year" award in 2022.

Elden Ring review rating (9/10)