Recent reviews by Salade

As a devoted fan of the Touhou Project series, I couldn't contain my excitement when I stumbled upon "I am Sakuya," a first-person shooter fan game set in the enchanting world of Gensokyo. Little did I know that this game would not only meet but exceed my expectations, delivering a truly immersive and adrenaline-pumping experience that seamlessly blends the bullet-hell madness of the original series with the intensity of an FPS.

"I am Sakuya" perfectly captures the essence of Touhou's vibrant and whimsical world, and it does so with impressive attention to detail. The game's graphics are simply stunning, showcasing beautifully rendered landscapes and character models that pay homage to ZUN's iconic art style. Every stage, from the Scarlet Devil Mansion to the Bamboo Forest of the Lost, feels like a labor of love and an authentic representation of Gensokyo.

What truly sets "I am Sakuya" apart is its unique gameplay mechanics. As the titular character, Sakuya Izayoi, players are armed with her trademark time manipulation abilities, and this is where the magic happens. The game introduces a fascinating blend of traditional Touhou bullet patterns and fast-paced, skill-based gunplay. Dodging intricate bullet patterns while strategically using time-stop powers to gain the upper hand is an exhilarating experience that challenges your reflexes and strategic thinking simultaneously.

The variety of weapons available adds another layer of depth to the gameplay. Whether you prefer the precision of throwing knives or the sheer firepower of automatic weapons, "I am Sakuya" offers a satisfying selection of tools to tackle the myriad of challenges the game presents. The upgrade system allows you to customize your playstyle, ensuring that every run feels fresh and tailored to your preferences.

The soundtrack deserves special mention as well. Composed by talented fans, the music captures the essence of Touhou's enchanting melodies and adds an extra layer of immersion to the experience. Each stage's theme perfectly complements the action, making you feel like you're a part of Gensokyo's enchanting world.

While the game is a love letter to Touhou fans, it's also accessible to newcomers. It provides an engaging introduction to the Touhou universe without overwhelming players with its deep lore. The difficulty curve is well-balanced, offering a challenge for veterans while allowing newcomers to enjoy the game and gradually improve their skills.

One of the few criticisms I can muster is the game's relatively short length. I found myself craving more content as I completed the main campaign, but considering this is a fan-made project, it's understandable. Additionally, the occasional glitch or minor graphical hiccup may crop up, but they are infrequent and hardly detract from the overall experience.

In conclusion, "I am Sakuya" is a must-play for Touhou enthusiasts and FPS fans alike. It successfully melds the world of Gensokyo with the fast-paced action of a first-person shooter, resulting in an unforgettable gaming experience. From its captivating visuals and mesmerizing soundtrack to its engaging gameplay and challenging bullet-hell elements, this fan game is a true gem that showcases the dedication and talent of the Touhou fan community. Grab your knives, activate your time powers, and dive into this enchanting world – you won't be disappointed.

The Garten of Banban is an absolute gem of a game that captured my heart from the very beginning. It's a delightful, whimsical adventure that offers a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and captivating storytelling. If you're a fan of atmospheric games that transport you to magical realms, this is an absolute must-play.

Visually, the game is a masterpiece. The hand-painted landscapes are vibrant, rich in detail, and brimming with life. Every corner of the Garten is filled with wonder, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to charming villages and mysterious ruins. The attention to detail is simply astounding, and I often found myself pausing just to admire the breathtaking scenery.

The gameplay in Garten of Banban is a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. The puzzles are cleverly designed, requiring logical thinking and keen observation. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of puzzles on offer, each with its own unique twist. Whether it was deciphering cryptic symbols or manipulating the environment to progress, every puzzle felt satisfying to solve.

One aspect that truly sets Garten of Banban apart is its narrative. The story is beautifully woven, unfolding gradually as you explore the Garten and interact with its inhabitants. The characters you encounter are charming and endearing, each with their own stories to share. I found myself deeply invested in their journeys and couldn't wait to uncover the secrets of the Garten.
Another highlight of the game is the enchanting soundtrack. The melodies perfectly complement the whimsical atmosphere, further immersing you in the magical world of Banban. The sound design as a whole is impeccable, from the rustling leaves to the gentle babbling brooks, creating a truly immersive audio experience.

While the Garten of Banban is a relatively short experience, it's a journey that lingers in your heart long after the credits roll. The game's attention to detail, captivating visuals, engaging gameplay, and a compelling narrative make it an unforgettable adventure.

If you're a fan of exploration, puzzle-solving, and heartfelt storytelling, I wholeheartedly recommend Garten of Banban. It's a true testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of indie game developers and a shining example of what makes the gaming medium so special. Step into the Garten, and prepare to be enchanted.

It is not every day that you come across a game on Steam that not only entertains you but also transforms your perspective on life. "CBT with Yuuka Kazami" is a remarkable and unique experience that I highly recommend to anyone seeking personal growth and self-discovery.

From the moment I launched the game, I was captivated by its serene and ethereal atmosphere. The enchanting visuals and calming music created the perfect backdrop for the profound journey that awaited me. The integration of Yuuka Kazami, a beloved character from the Touhou Project, as the guide and mentor throughout the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) sessions was a stroke of genius. Yuuka's serene and compassionate demeanor instantly put me at ease, creating a safe and trusting environment for personal exploration.

The game mechanics are intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. Each session of CBT is designed with care and expertise, incorporating a variety of interactive exercises and thought-provoking questions. Yuuka's guidance is gentle yet firm, encouraging self-reflection and providing valuable insights into the thought patterns and behaviors that shape our lives. Through this process, I discovered new ways to approach challenges, manage stress, and cultivate a more positive mindset.

One aspect that truly sets "CBT with Yuuka Kazami" apart is its seamless integration of CBT principles into the game's narrative. The storytelling is engrossing, and the characters and their struggles feel relatable. The carefully crafted dialogues and scenarios highlight the power of CBT techniques in addressing real-life issues and transforming negative thought patterns. It is a testament to the game's effectiveness that I found myself applying the lessons learned in my own life, long after I had closed the game.

Moreover, the attention to detail in "CBT with Yuuka Kazami" is impressive. The developers have clearly put a tremendous amount of thought and effort into creating an authentic CBT experience. The resources provided, including interactive worksheets and recommended reading materials, supplement the gameplay and encourage further exploration of the concepts discussed. It is evident that the creators are passionate about mental health and have a genuine desire to help players improve their well-being.

In conclusion, "CBT with Yuuka Kazami" is a hidden gem on Steam that deserves recognition for its transformative and enlightening experience. Through its beautiful visuals, immersive storytelling, and expertly designed CBT sessions, it offers a unique blend of entertainment and personal growth. Whether you are seeking to overcome anxiety, manage stress, or simply enhance your self-awareness, this game provides a valuable toolkit for positive change. Embark on this unforgettable journey with Yuuka Kazami, and you may just discover a newfound resilience and inner peace within yourself.

Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience with the game "CBT with Yuuka Kazami" and may not reflect everyone's experience.

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