This weekend, dear readers, we present a unique challenge for all gaming enthusiasts. Alongside the usual entertaining narratives about gameplay and the ever-popular antics of our feline friends, we invite you to reflect on a thought-provoking question: What is the one aspect of a gaming genre that you generally dislike, yet still manages to pull you back in? What element consistently draws you in, even when you know that the game itself may not align with your preferences? For example, let’s consider Counter-Strike-style shooters. The exhilarating, swift gunplay with a short time-to-kill is undeniably satisfying; however, the frustration of depending on unpredictable teammates can quickly overshadow that enjoyment.

As you mull over these questions, let’s take a look at what the gaming community is buzzing about this weekend!

Brendy
I might find myself slowly exploring the game South By Midnight this weekend. However, I realize that I probably shouldn't dawdle too much since my review is already overdue. Oops, time management isn’t my strong suit!

Edwin
This weekend, I'll be diving into co-op gameplay in Schedule 1, trying out the quirky, free platformer Ena: Dream BBQ, and checking out a fascinating side-scroller I stumbled upon on Itch called Aurascope. Sounds exciting, right? I estimate that I’ll score about a solid 7/10 on my personal hipster graph.

Graham
As I prepare for a holiday getaway this weekend, I’ve loaded my Steam Deck with an assortment of games: 1000xResist, Mindcop, Ballionaire, Ender Magnolia: Bloom In The Mist, and Nine Sols. I’m curious to see if any of these games can break me out of the trance of reading and indulging in all-inclusive sausages, which is my plan for the trip. Only time will tell!

James
This week, I returned to the world of Deathloop, motivated partly by a game called Atomfall that reminded me of it. I also watched a stunning YouTube video showcasing some impressive action-stealth kill sequences that made me think, “I could totally pull that off.” Spoiler alert: I could not.

Jeremy
This weekend, I’ll make a trip down to Brighton with my wife and two dogs, which may not allow much time for gaming. However, if I manage to carve out a moment to unwind, I might revisit Stardew Valley. It’s that season of the year when spring beckons, and my virtual farm is calling out for attention. Plus, I should probably dedicate some time to my in-game spouse, Maru, to nurture our virtual relationship.

Nic
I’m planning to dive into Battle Brothers to see what kind of stories can emerge from it. I’ll also poke at Monster Hunter Wilds, though I anticipate that the narratives will likely revolve around the theme of “hit a monster until it dies.” Well, that’s one way to keep things simple!

Ollie
I've been savoring my latest playthrough of Shapez 2, taking my sweet time, but I’m approaching the final milestone now. My goal is to stick with it long enough to create a Make Anything Machine (MAM), which represents the ultimate challenge in Shapez. I’m unsure if I possess the endurance or free time for that, but for now, it remains a wonderfully soothing evening activity.

Now, dear readers, what games are on your menu this weekend? We’d love to hear from you!