After watching "The Portable Door," I have to say that it's a magical story that is semi-well-rounded and worth watching, despite falling short in terms of action. The film tries to be interesting, but sometimes it comes off as downright weird. Although certain characters are presented as sinister, it ultimately feels like fluff, and a missed opportunity to explore more depth in the plot. Sadly, there were numerous missed opportunities.
Nonetheless, the film is visually pleasing, thanks to a variety of camera angles used throughout. While some scenes may feel bland, the grocery store scene is a standout example of how the film can bring color and excitement to the screen. The audio is also well done, especially the sound effect of the portable door appearing and disappearing.
The icing on the cake is the price of the film. For anyone with an Amazon Prime subscription, "The Portable Door" is included in the package, which is a great deal for fantasy adventure enthusiasts. Overall, I would recommend giving it a watch.
New tram simulation game is coming to the PlayStation® Store, the Epic Games Store and the Microsoft Store on March 21, 2024!
Duesseldorf/Germany, February 22, 2024 – Today, astragon Entertainment and the stillalive studios developer team are pleased to announce the release date for the console and additional PC versions of their new tram simulation game. Tram Simulator Urban Transit will be released with dedicated versions for PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One as well as for PC in the Epic Games Store and Microsoft Store on March 21, 2024!
Tram Simulator Urban Transit:
6 playable tram models – three different models, each in two different lengths
Each tram with a detailed, interactive cockpit!
More than 10 missions in story mode
Extensive rail network
Create your own tram lines and timetables
Road traffic interacts with trams
Various random events during the rides
Dedicated tram depots for the trams
Driving school for beginners!
3 game modes: Story, Career and Sandbox
Multiplayer for up to 4 players
To be released on March 21, 2024 for 19.99 EUR / 19.99 USD (SRP) for PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC on the Epic Games Store and the Microsoft Store!
Owners of astragon’s Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop - Season Pass or Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop - Official Tram Extension will automatically receive free access to Tram Simulator Urban Transit!
Buyers of Tram Simulator Urban Transit receive free access to Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop - Official Tram Extension (main game required to play)!
Following the recent release of the game on Steam, players will soon also get the opportunity to build their own public transportation company in the fictitious US metropolis of Angel Shores on PlayStation®, Xbox and other PC platforms. In Tram Simulator Urban Transit streetcar fans can use a route editor to create their own tram lines, manage the city's route network and, of course, take control of the cockpit of the 6 available tram models - three different streetcar types, each in two lengths - by themselves and to prove their streetcar driving skills. During the journeys, players not only have to keep an eye on the route and the traffic – they also have to deal with numerous random events, sell tickets and check the tickets of passengers in order to put a stop to fare dodgers.
When creating a new company, players can choose between three game modes. The Story Mode guides players to success with an exciting campaign comprising more than 10 missions. In Career Mode, players are free to develop their company according their personal likings, but should always keep an eye on their finances while building up their local transport company. Meanwhile, the Sandbox Mode offers unlimited gaming fun - all options are open to players right from the start and, thanks to unlimited financial resources, tram lines can be expanded completely carefree and as desired. All three game modes can of course also be played in multiplayer with up to three additional players. For newcomers, a dedicated Driving School familiarizes the players with the interactive cockpits and the controls of the trams.
Tram Simulator Urban Transit will be released on March 21, 2024 for 19.99 EUR / 19.99 USD (SRP) for PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC on the Epic Games Store and the Microsoft Store.
Owners of astragon’s Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop - Season Pass or the Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop - Official Tram Extension will automatically receive free access to Tram Simulator Urban Transit! Conversely, buyers of Tram Simulator Urban Transit receive free access to Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop - Official Tram Extension (main game required to play)!
The revival of Final Fantasy VII was a result of a game publisher listening to the audience. It may have taken a while, but the timing of the release was absolutely perfect. As avid gamers ourselves, we too can't help but wonder if a remake of Parasite Eve could be next in line (Blu brought this up). It is evident that there is an opening in the industry for another survival horror game, and the combination of nostalgia and curiosity could be enough to attract players to hit the buy button if they saw the stylish Aya Brea back on the scene in an all-new way.
For those who may be confused about the Final Fantasy VII releases, let me provide you with a comprehensive rundown from past to present.
The journey began with the release of Final Fantasy VII in 1997, which was the installment that started it all. Then, the prequel, Before Crisis: Final Fantasy VII, a mobile game that focuses on the covert operatives known as the Turks, was released in 2004.
In 2005, fans were treated to the visually stunning animated film, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children, which represents a sequel to the original game centered around Cloud Strife and his allies. That same year, an anime OVA called Last Order: Final Fantasy VII was released, providing additional backstory to the events of the original game.
Surprisingly, there was also a snowboarding mini-game called Final Fantasy VII Snowboarding, which was released on mobile. Then, in 2006, an action RPG sequel to Advent Children called Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII was released, following the character Vincent Valentine. Although it had a lot of potential, this game did not receive the justice it deserved and deserves a complete remake. This would be one heck of an Action-RPG/undercover third-person shooter if the FF7 team developed this game with the help of Avalanch Studios (the team behind the Just Cause franchise).
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII was released in 2007, continuing the party on the PSP for those who owned one. This game explores the story of Zack Fair, a minor character from the original game. In 2009, an extended version of the CGI film was released called Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete. I found out about this while writing this article.
Finally, in 2020, the much-awaited Final Fantasy VII Remake was released, bringing back the magic of Final Fantasy VII for fans and a new generation of players to experience. To eliminate confusion, Intergrade, the visually enhanced version released on the PS5, was released in 2021 and features numerous gameplay additions. This version also showcases Final Fantasy VII Reunion Episode INTERmission, featuring Yuffie as the main character.
In 2023, Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis expanded the lore of the original game, allowing players to experience key elements of the timeline and follow Sephiroth's journey as a young hero. It is a chapter-structured RPG that has been optimized for mobile devices and features effective RPG elements like the iconic Active Time Battle System and customizable party lineup.
Additionally, players can dive into engrossing battles with powerful bosses that can be taken on in up to three-player co-op. Ever Crisis adds new story elements penned by Final Fantasy VII Remake story and scenario writer Kazushige Nojima.
And finally, we await Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which is scheduled for release on Feb. 29, 2024. This standalone title reimagines the original game into three parts, starting with the party's journey to the Forgotten Capital after they escape the city of Midgar to pursue Sephiroth. Exciting new elements are sure to be introduced as the story unfolds, ultimately leading players on a journey that will decide the fate of the planet.
The Final Fantasy VII series is vast, and fans have a lot to look forward to. If you're a fan of the game, make sure to check out all the available titles and game on!
