Josh
@joshmck.bsky.social
Writer of words | Guides Freelance Eurogamer
Backloggd Profile for Reviews: https://www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/
Backloggd Profile for Reviews: https://www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/
In the last few days, I had the chance to cover the new #BlackOps6 Zombies map Shattered Veil for Eurogamer with a couple of guides - including the main quest easter egg and building the Ray Gun Mark 2 (my personal favourite Wonder Weapon).
Fun guides to put together - both linked below!
Fun guides to put together - both linked below!
April 10, 2025 at 2:46 PM
In the last few days, I had the chance to cover the new #BlackOps6 Zombies map Shattered Veil for Eurogamer with a couple of guides - including the main quest easter egg and building the Ray Gun Mark 2 (my personal favourite Wonder Weapon).
Fun guides to put together - both linked below!
Fun guides to put together - both linked below!
Recently had my first guide published on Polygon covering #MonsterHunterWilds, running through all you need to know about Crowns, how to hunt them etc. Was great putting this together and fun getting to write for a new site!
It also got me back into MH again right before TU1 lol
Linked below!
It also got me back into MH again right before TU1 lol
Linked below!
April 10, 2025 at 2:30 PM
Recently had my first guide published on Polygon covering #MonsterHunterWilds, running through all you need to know about Crowns, how to hunt them etc. Was great putting this together and fun getting to write for a new site!
It also got me back into MH again right before TU1 lol
Linked below!
It also got me back into MH again right before TU1 lol
Linked below!
Gonna make some Bungie-related release timing predictions as I have a fair bit of confidence in their roadmap.
April: Marathon reveals + Alpha begins
May: ROTN in D2 (confirmed) and Apollo reveal
June: More Marathon (Beta?)
July: D2: Apollo launch
Aug/Sept: Marathon beta round 2
April: Marathon reveals + Alpha begins
May: ROTN in D2 (confirmed) and Apollo reveal
June: More Marathon (Beta?)
July: D2: Apollo launch
Aug/Sept: Marathon beta round 2
April 6, 2025 at 2:57 PM
Gonna make some Bungie-related release timing predictions as I have a fair bit of confidence in their roadmap.
April: Marathon reveals + Alpha begins
May: ROTN in D2 (confirmed) and Apollo reveal
June: More Marathon (Beta?)
July: D2: Apollo launch
Aug/Sept: Marathon beta round 2
April: Marathon reveals + Alpha begins
May: ROTN in D2 (confirmed) and Apollo reveal
June: More Marathon (Beta?)
July: D2: Apollo launch
Aug/Sept: Marathon beta round 2
After seeing more of Switch 2's big three (Mario Kart, DK, and Metroid), I've become much more excited. Free roam MK especially looks sick and I'm very curious to learn more in the upcoming Direct.
Also, shoutout to the Treehouse streams - this two-day showcase was great and felt reminiscent of E3.
Also, shoutout to the Treehouse streams - this two-day showcase was great and felt reminiscent of E3.
April 5, 2025 at 1:55 PM
After seeing more of Switch 2's big three (Mario Kart, DK, and Metroid), I've become much more excited. Free roam MK especially looks sick and I'm very curious to learn more in the upcoming Direct.
Also, shoutout to the Treehouse streams - this two-day showcase was great and felt reminiscent of E3.
Also, shoutout to the Treehouse streams - this two-day showcase was great and felt reminiscent of E3.
Also, shoutout to the absurdly-good character creator too. Don't think there has ever been a game that allowed me to so easily create exactly the kind of character I want to play. Genuinely really good stuff.
March 5, 2025 at 3:17 AM
Also, shoutout to the absurdly-good character creator too. Don't think there has ever been a game that allowed me to so easily create exactly the kind of character I want to play. Genuinely really good stuff.
It's been a while since I've admired how a game presents itself, but the title and save selection screens in #MHWilds have really stood out to me.
Seeing your created character exit a tent overlooking the vast expanse of your current area is some of the best visuals this gen.
Seeing your created character exit a tent overlooking the vast expanse of your current area is some of the best visuals this gen.
March 5, 2025 at 3:17 AM
It's been a while since I've admired how a game presents itself, but the title and save selection screens in #MHWilds have really stood out to me.
Seeing your created character exit a tent overlooking the vast expanse of your current area is some of the best visuals this gen.
Seeing your created character exit a tent overlooking the vast expanse of your current area is some of the best visuals this gen.
Ended up putting together the game page for #Destiny2: Heresy - Act 1 over on the IGDB. This means it also shows up on Backloggd! Hope that's handy for anyone who likes to document their thoughts and ratings on specific releases.
Check it out below!
Check it out below!
February 11, 2025 at 6:43 PM
Ended up putting together the game page for #Destiny2: Heresy - Act 1 over on the IGDB. This means it also shows up on Backloggd! Hope that's handy for anyone who likes to document their thoughts and ratings on specific releases.
Check it out below!
Check it out below!
Platinum no. 67: Final Fantasy VII Remake
Just over a year since I beat it, replaying this on Hard was such a fun experience. Somewhat easier than I expected, but that Pride and Joy fight really amped up the difficulty in comparison and puts a laser focus on gameplay mastery.
Just over a year since I beat it, replaying this on Hard was such a fun experience. Somewhat easier than I expected, but that Pride and Joy fight really amped up the difficulty in comparison and puts a laser focus on gameplay mastery.
January 30, 2025 at 4:30 PM
Platinum no. 67: Final Fantasy VII Remake
Just over a year since I beat it, replaying this on Hard was such a fun experience. Somewhat easier than I expected, but that Pride and Joy fight really amped up the difficulty in comparison and puts a laser focus on gameplay mastery.
Just over a year since I beat it, replaying this on Hard was such a fun experience. Somewhat easier than I expected, but that Pride and Joy fight really amped up the difficulty in comparison and puts a laser focus on gameplay mastery.
Platinum no. 66: Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
Easily one of my favourite games of all time, replaying this was so much fun and reminded me of just how well-rounded and perfected this adventure is. Really nice Platinum with a couple of neat challenges thrown in too.
Easily one of my favourite games of all time, replaying this was so much fun and reminded me of just how well-rounded and perfected this adventure is. Really nice Platinum with a couple of neat challenges thrown in too.
January 24, 2025 at 2:01 PM
Platinum no. 66: Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
Easily one of my favourite games of all time, replaying this was so much fun and reminded me of just how well-rounded and perfected this adventure is. Really nice Platinum with a couple of neat challenges thrown in too.
Easily one of my favourite games of all time, replaying this was so much fun and reminded me of just how well-rounded and perfected this adventure is. Really nice Platinum with a couple of neat challenges thrown in too.
I find it strange that the dodge/evade mechanic in RE4 Remake didn't get more discussion.
Much like the OG, there is a prompt to avoid some attacks, but you can easily miss it depending on how you're moving. Even if you don't get hit, it never felt good and threw me off a lot.
Much like the OG, there is a prompt to avoid some attacks, but you can easily miss it depending on how you're moving. Even if you don't get hit, it never felt good and threw me off a lot.
January 20, 2025 at 9:30 PM
I find it strange that the dodge/evade mechanic in RE4 Remake didn't get more discussion.
Much like the OG, there is a prompt to avoid some attacks, but you can easily miss it depending on how you're moving. Even if you don't get hit, it never felt good and threw me off a lot.
Much like the OG, there is a prompt to avoid some attacks, but you can easily miss it depending on how you're moving. Even if you don't get hit, it never felt good and threw me off a lot.
So I loaded up #FinalFantasyXIV for the first time in a few months last night, and so quickly I felt pulled back in.
I've never really played a true MMO before, but I was reminded of the way in which this game captures you with its music and style. It's truly special.
I've never really played a true MMO before, but I was reminded of the way in which this game captures you with its music and style. It's truly special.
January 15, 2025 at 9:05 PM
So I loaded up #FinalFantasyXIV for the first time in a few months last night, and so quickly I felt pulled back in.
I've never really played a true MMO before, but I was reminded of the way in which this game captures you with its music and style. It's truly special.
I've never really played a true MMO before, but I was reminded of the way in which this game captures you with its music and style. It's truly special.
Platinum no. 65: Stellar Blade
Following a guide to find all the collectibles in my first playthrough made things less enjoyable, but after running it back on NG+, I breezed through the story and had a great time. It's an awesome action title, and one of my favourites from 2024.
Following a guide to find all the collectibles in my first playthrough made things less enjoyable, but after running it back on NG+, I breezed through the story and had a great time. It's an awesome action title, and one of my favourites from 2024.
January 14, 2025 at 6:01 PM
Platinum no. 65: Stellar Blade
Following a guide to find all the collectibles in my first playthrough made things less enjoyable, but after running it back on NG+, I breezed through the story and had a great time. It's an awesome action title, and one of my favourites from 2024.
Following a guide to find all the collectibles in my first playthrough made things less enjoyable, but after running it back on NG+, I breezed through the story and had a great time. It's an awesome action title, and one of my favourites from 2024.
There have been some changes since launch, but I really do like the Tonic system in #Destiny2 Revenant, as well as the reputation bonuses from seasonal armour.
They're game-wide systems that feed into each other and let you make seasonal progress whatever you play.
They're game-wide systems that feed into each other and let you make seasonal progress whatever you play.
January 9, 2025 at 8:00 PM
There have been some changes since launch, but I really do like the Tonic system in #Destiny2 Revenant, as well as the reputation bonuses from seasonal armour.
They're game-wide systems that feed into each other and let you make seasonal progress whatever you play.
They're game-wide systems that feed into each other and let you make seasonal progress whatever you play.
Finished Act 3 of Revenant in #Destiny2, and even if the Exotic mission wasn't the best, it's decent enough and quick enough that made the three runs not too bad.
Story-wise though, pleasantly surprised by the much stronger conclusion than Echoes. Nice moments and setups for the future.
Story-wise though, pleasantly surprised by the much stronger conclusion than Echoes. Nice moments and setups for the future.
January 8, 2025 at 4:51 PM
Finished Act 3 of Revenant in #Destiny2, and even if the Exotic mission wasn't the best, it's decent enough and quick enough that made the three runs not too bad.
Story-wise though, pleasantly surprised by the much stronger conclusion than Echoes. Nice moments and setups for the future.
Story-wise though, pleasantly surprised by the much stronger conclusion than Echoes. Nice moments and setups for the future.
Whilst Act 3 has begun, last week I shared my thoughts on #Destiny2: Revenant Act 2 with an activity/economy critique, more feelings on Tonics, and more.
I also talk about the declining community sentiment, and why I think it's valid but overstated.
Check out the review below!
I also talk about the declining community sentiment, and why I think it's valid but overstated.
Check out the review below!
January 8, 2025 at 2:20 PM
Whilst Act 3 has begun, last week I shared my thoughts on #Destiny2: Revenant Act 2 with an activity/economy critique, more feelings on Tonics, and more.
I also talk about the declining community sentiment, and why I think it's valid but overstated.
Check out the review below!
I also talk about the declining community sentiment, and why I think it's valid but overstated.
Check out the review below!
Here's a list of all the games I've finished (or played extensively) in 2024.
Think this might've been one of my favourite years to-date, not just for new games but also several older titles too - in particular multiple entries from the Final Fantasy series.
Think this might've been one of my favourite years to-date, not just for new games but also several older titles too - in particular multiple entries from the Final Fantasy series.
December 31, 2024 at 1:26 PM
Here's a list of all the games I've finished (or played extensively) in 2024.
Think this might've been one of my favourite years to-date, not just for new games but also several older titles too - in particular multiple entries from the Final Fantasy series.
Think this might've been one of my favourite years to-date, not just for new games but also several older titles too - in particular multiple entries from the Final Fantasy series.
Merry Christmas, all! Have a great one!
December 25, 2024 at 1:16 PM
Merry Christmas, all! Have a great one!
Platinum no. 64: Final Fantasy
Some trophies have oddly low requirements, but by and large, this is a nicely rounded Platinum you can knock out pretty much at the same time you beat the story. No missables and just a really solid game, had a really great time playing this one.
Some trophies have oddly low requirements, but by and large, this is a nicely rounded Platinum you can knock out pretty much at the same time you beat the story. No missables and just a really solid game, had a really great time playing this one.
December 23, 2024 at 11:17 PM
Platinum no. 64: Final Fantasy
Some trophies have oddly low requirements, but by and large, this is a nicely rounded Platinum you can knock out pretty much at the same time you beat the story. No missables and just a really solid game, had a really great time playing this one.
Some trophies have oddly low requirements, but by and large, this is a nicely rounded Platinum you can knock out pretty much at the same time you beat the story. No missables and just a really solid game, had a really great time playing this one.
#39 Final Fantasy - Pixel Remaster
Since playing FF7, I've ended up curious about not just this franchise, but JRPGs in general. Seeing the origin of Final Fantasy here has been a blast, and for as simple and easy as it is, it's honestly such a pleasant game. Looking forward to FF2!
Since playing FF7, I've ended up curious about not just this franchise, but JRPGs in general. Seeing the origin of Final Fantasy here has been a blast, and for as simple and easy as it is, it's honestly such a pleasant game. Looking forward to FF2!
December 23, 2024 at 7:48 PM
#39 Final Fantasy - Pixel Remaster
Since playing FF7, I've ended up curious about not just this franchise, but JRPGs in general. Seeing the origin of Final Fantasy here has been a blast, and for as simple and easy as it is, it's honestly such a pleasant game. Looking forward to FF2!
Since playing FF7, I've ended up curious about not just this franchise, but JRPGs in general. Seeing the origin of Final Fantasy here has been a blast, and for as simple and easy as it is, it's honestly such a pleasant game. Looking forward to FF2!
Easily in my top five of 2024, #IndianaJonesandtheGreatCircle is a game with so much clear passion for the source material, it ultimately won me over by the end. Whilst there are issues, it absolutely nails adapting the IP and is a genuinely great game.
Review below.
Review below.
December 23, 2024 at 1:00 PM
Easily in my top five of 2024, #IndianaJonesandtheGreatCircle is a game with so much clear passion for the source material, it ultimately won me over by the end. Whilst there are issues, it absolutely nails adapting the IP and is a genuinely great game.
Review below.
Review below.
#38 Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
I've had mixed thoughts playing Indy. One minute I was loving it, the next it was underwhelming, whether due to bugs, lack of polish, or mixed design. By the end though, it concludes on such an insanely good note, I can't help but love it.
I've had mixed thoughts playing Indy. One minute I was loving it, the next it was underwhelming, whether due to bugs, lack of polish, or mixed design. By the end though, it concludes on such an insanely good note, I can't help but love it.
December 21, 2024 at 11:36 PM
#38 Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
I've had mixed thoughts playing Indy. One minute I was loving it, the next it was underwhelming, whether due to bugs, lack of polish, or mixed design. By the end though, it concludes on such an insanely good note, I can't help but love it.
I've had mixed thoughts playing Indy. One minute I was loving it, the next it was underwhelming, whether due to bugs, lack of polish, or mixed design. By the end though, it concludes on such an insanely good note, I can't help but love it.
#33 Pokemon TCG Pocket
Not played tons or been partaking in battles much, but collecting cards is neat and a hobby I used to have. There's some really sick art and animations for various cards, and finding this is actually making me want to go back to physical card collecting.
Not played tons or been partaking in battles much, but collecting cards is neat and a hobby I used to have. There's some really sick art and animations for various cards, and finding this is actually making me want to go back to physical card collecting.
December 10, 2024 at 10:01 PM
#33 Pokemon TCG Pocket
Not played tons or been partaking in battles much, but collecting cards is neat and a hobby I used to have. There's some really sick art and animations for various cards, and finding this is actually making me want to go back to physical card collecting.
Not played tons or been partaking in battles much, but collecting cards is neat and a hobby I used to have. There's some really sick art and animations for various cards, and finding this is actually making me want to go back to physical card collecting.
Just cast my votes for #TheGameAwards. Think it's been a great year, just wish I'd got around to more of the newer stuff that released.
Pretty happy with this list though, but some were close calls - like best audio/music with SH2, FF7R, and Astro. Curious how it all shakes out!
Pretty happy with this list though, but some were close calls - like best audio/music with SH2, FF7R, and Astro. Curious how it all shakes out!
December 8, 2024 at 8:02 PM
Just cast my votes for #TheGameAwards. Think it's been a great year, just wish I'd got around to more of the newer stuff that released.
Pretty happy with this list though, but some were close calls - like best audio/music with SH2, FF7R, and Astro. Curious how it all shakes out!
Pretty happy with this list though, but some were close calls - like best audio/music with SH2, FF7R, and Astro. Curious how it all shakes out!
After the first game, I played #LifeisStrange: Before the Storm.
Whilst I wasn't immediately sold, this prequel ends up coming close to the heights of the first, resulting in a highly enjoyable tale that delves deeper into Chloe and Rachel's relationship.
Review: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
Whilst I wasn't immediately sold, this prequel ends up coming close to the heights of the first, resulting in a highly enjoyable tale that delves deeper into Chloe and Rachel's relationship.
Review: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
December 6, 2024 at 8:00 PM
After the first game, I played #LifeisStrange: Before the Storm.
Whilst I wasn't immediately sold, this prequel ends up coming close to the heights of the first, resulting in a highly enjoyable tale that delves deeper into Chloe and Rachel's relationship.
Review: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
Whilst I wasn't immediately sold, this prequel ends up coming close to the heights of the first, resulting in a highly enjoyable tale that delves deeper into Chloe and Rachel's relationship.
Review: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
Very early in #IndianaJones and the Great Circle, but put together a few of my thoughts atm.
There's something very particular about the vibe of this game that's stood out to me already - it has somewhat of a PS2 game feel to it, and I'm all for it.
Impressions: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
There's something very particular about the vibe of this game that's stood out to me already - it has somewhat of a PS2 game feel to it, and I'm all for it.
Impressions: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
December 6, 2024 at 5:15 PM
Very early in #IndianaJones and the Great Circle, but put together a few of my thoughts atm.
There's something very particular about the vibe of this game that's stood out to me already - it has somewhat of a PS2 game feel to it, and I'm all for it.
Impressions: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...
There's something very particular about the vibe of this game that's stood out to me already - it has somewhat of a PS2 game feel to it, and I'm all for it.
Impressions: www.backloggd.com/u/JoshM574/r...