Kristen
Apr 15, 2019
My Time At Portia has officially been released on PS4, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch! In this article, we are going to look at the key differences between the PC and Console versions as of the initial launch. Even though the two versions are very similar, there are some very noticeable differences on the console.
This review is based on an early Playstation 4 Version of My Time At Portia.
No Voice Acting
When I first sat down with My Time At Portia for PS4, I noticed a HUGE difference between the two games – NO voice acting. When you go into the character creation on PC, there is an option to choose your voice/accent but on console there is none. None of the characters have voices in the console version which is an interesting change.
Having played the game for over 40 hours on PC, I ended up reading everything in the voices I know and love. Even though I noticed no voice acting, I honestly preferred it. In the PC version, the voice acting isn’t complete and whenever a text box isn’t voiced, I feel like it takes me out of the game. With not having to worry about switching between the two and just sticking with no voices, I felt like this was a very good decision made my the developers.
My in-game husband Arlo has an Australian accent on PC but is now a silent, mysterious type. Even More Breathtaking Graphics
In the PC version of My Time At Portia, there is major fog filter. I personally ended up modding the game to get rid of this fog which made the game a lot more crisp, colorful, and beautiful. The great thing about the console version of My Time At Portia is that there is LESS FOG! When I started up the game, I noticed that the colors on PS4 are way more vibrant than the PC.
Controls
As with any game switching from PC to console, there are major differences in the controls. Even though the controls were confusing at first, I quickly became familiar with them.
As of right now you are not able to change the key bindings on the controller. Jumping being “Circle” takes a little time to get used to as it doesn’t feel natural. It would be nice to change some of the keys as they were a little different than what I’m used to in games.
All the controls are conveniently labeled. Long Loading Times
Unlike the PC version, the game on console has extremely long loading times whenever you enter/leave a building. These loading times can take you out of the game. However, as of last week the developers announced improved loading times on Nintendo Switch which may help. Hopefully they will be announcing the same for PS4 in the future.
Pre Order Bonus
As of right now, the PC version doesn’t come with the Housewarming gift set that came as a pre-order bonus for the console versions. The developers have mentioned adding something similar into the game so everyone can have access to the items in the future but there is no further information as of now.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I was very impressed with the PC to console port of My Time At Portia. They made some really great decisions on eliminating voice acting and lightening the fog filter. These few differences have made such a big impact in the game that I would highly recommend switching to the console version.
My Time At Portia is available to purchase on the PS4, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch e-shops. It is also available for purchase on Steam for those that want to stick with the PC version. Have fun exploring the beautiful world of Portia and Happy Gaming!
- Apr 14, 2019
My Time At Portia will be released this Tuesday, April 16th on Xbox, PS4, and Nintendo Switch! Don’t forget to pre-order now to receive your special housewarming gift set.
What will the housewarming gift entail?
- Jacket and Ripped Jeans (Outfit)
- Lion with Wings Statue (Furniture)
- Cuckcoo Station Clock (Furniture)
- Rainbow Jelly (Consumable)
- Dried Beef (Consumable)
- 500 Gols (Currency)
If you haven’t played My Time At Portia yet, check out our review of the game HERE and if you’d like to hear more about the console release, check out the article HERE.
For more information about My Time At Portia and how it compares to the PC version, stay tuned to myPotatoGames. We will have a comparison article ready for you come launch day!
- Apr 12, 2019
My Time At Portia and Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles are two very similar games regarding gameplay. People often wonder which game they should be playing and I’m here to help! Even though both would be a good recommendation, below you can find a small comparison of the two games to possibly help aid in your decision.
Crafting
In both games, you get amazing items through crafting that make the games a lot more fun. The crafting gameplay can become a little tedious in both but is still an enjoyable experience. In Portia you need to run to and from each device to craft your items whereas in Yonder, everything is done the your bag menu. If you like the simplicity of it, Yonder has a good system but Portia has more roleplay and realism with using the devices.
Fishing
Fishing in Portia and Yonder use very similar mechanics. The notable difference that I noticed was when comparing the two’s Fishing Tournament. Portia’s fishing tournament is great as it is one where you feel the suspense as you watch the number of fish go up from the other competitors. In Yonder, there is absolutely no competition. The quest giver calls it a “tournament” but there seems to be no other people to compete with. Even though Portia has a better fishing tourney, Yonder seems to have an easier fishing mechanic.
My Time in Portia fishing Townsfolk
The most notable difference between the two games for me was the townsfolk. Portia comes to life with the range of people you meet and their personalities. Yonder’s characters seem to be a blank slate filled with opportunity for more story but they just don’t have it. You can also have relationships with the people in Portia and even get married!
Music / Sounds
Music in both games are another aspect that are quite similar. They are both relaxing and add to the feeling of the game. Nothing stands out too much.
The opening scene from Yonder is breath taking and memorable with perfect music queues. Sounds in Yonder seemed to win me over rather than Portia. The reason being was just the volume. Sometimes in Portia you run into trees that have birds chirping extremely loud in your ear and the mixing just seems off a lot of the time. Even though I also experienced trees with loud birds in it in Yonder, this issue was not as bad.
Graphics
The visuals between both Yonder and Portia are quite different. I have seen comments saying people prefer Yonder and other people prefer Portia. To each their own when it comes to the graphics between the two.
The only takeaway that I have here is that Portia has a sort of fog filter which makes distant views look more distant. I feel like this fog takes away from the graphics. (Side Note, there is a mod you can download to get rid of this fog!) I also feel like Yonder has a similar issue where night is too realistic and dark. I wish there was an option/mod to play only in daytime!
My Time in Portia has some stunning distant views. Customization
Customizing your character in both Portia and Yonder seem to be a little limited. However, where the customization excels is through the buildings that you’re able to put in your farms. Portia has much more customization than Yonder in this field but Yonder comes in with a close second.
Final Thoughts
Which game would I recommend to people? Both! My Time in Portia has a lot of depth when it comes to building up your workshop and relationships which makes for a more interactive game play experience. On the other hand, Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles is a more laid back game about exploration and taking in the scenery. Depending on what you’re in the mood for, either of these games are fun and worth the time to play.
By clicking the title here, you can purchase your very own copy of My Time at Portia or Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles on the Nintendo Switch.
- Apr 11, 2019
With Easter right around the corner and Animal Crossing becoming a hot topic again, we just had to take a look at our favorite Animal Crossing Rabbits! Which bunny is your favorite from the series? Is it the peppy Chrissy? The cranky Gaston? Or maybe the uchi Mira in her adorable superhero costume. We love all the bunnies and can’t choose so cast your vote for the best AC Bunny!
[zombify_post]
- Apr 9, 2019
“The three themes of Animal Crossing: family, friendship, and community” – Katsuya Eguchi (The “Father” of Animal Crossing”)
PAX East 2019 was last weekend and on Sunday there was an Animal Crossing panel. The panel was called “18 Years of Animal Crossing: A Look Back” and was run by 3 members of Nintendo-Insider.
“18 Years of Animal Crossing: A Look Back” PAX East 2019 Panel This Panel Included:
- A walk through the history of AC starting from the original game on N64 and through the ones on 3DS, WiiU, and Mobile
- A general love fest for the series
- Fun, unnecessary speculation about the upcoming Switch Game
What is Animal Crossing?
The panel began with an explanation of the people running the panel and a brief description of what the Animal Crossing game entails.
During the explanation of the series, they mentioned the colorful cast of characters and it instantly felt like a walk down memory lane. Talking about how Tom Nook gives out no interest loans to the players and how he should be respected more. K.K. Slider and how people sometimes time travel to catch his show because it’s just that important.
The Timeline of Animal Crossing
At about 16 minutes into the panel, it became really interesting. They delved into the timeline of Animal Crossing with in-depth information about the series: how many copies sold, localization info, new content in each version, the more technical information (like how GameCube had the first e-reader cartridge). It was also very interesting to see the trailer for each game one after the other to see how it has evolved over the years.
The Future of Animal Crossing
At 47 minutes, the panel goes into the future of Animal Crossing regarding the 2019 Switch release.
Listed below is the speculation discussed at the panel. Please note, these are theories and not official information regarding the 2019 game:
- It’ll be a huge step up from New Leaf. Rather than being an upgrade of New Leaf, it’ll be a complete overhaul of the game.
- Some kind of coop with split play capabilities so you and a friend can hang out in your town together.
- It’ll be out this year even though some people are starting to think it won’t be.
- With Mario Maker 2 coming out in June and Pokemon coming out during Christmas, Fall (August/September) seems like a very likely time for the release.
- E3 will most likely be the big announcement of Animal Crossing Switch and if not, it looks like it’ll be pushed to 2020.
A still from the Animal Crossing 2019 teaser trailer. Final Thoughts
It was nice to have a walk down memory lane and hear the history of this amazing series. Here’s to hoping that there will be some major announcements at E3 in June for our beloved series! Stay tuned to MyPotatoGames for more Animal Crossing Switch news. Happy Gaming!
PAX East 2019
Watch Highlight: PAX EAST 2019 – ALBATROSS THEATRE- 18 Years of Animal Crossing: A Look Back from PAX2 on www.twitch.tv - Apr 3, 2019
ToeJam & Earl was originally released in 1991 for the Sega Genesis. Fans of the series were excited to hear when HumaNature Studios announced back in February of 2015 that they were making an updated version of the game. Four years after the game’s announcement on March 1st, 2019 the game was released for PC, PS4, and Nintendo Switch.
Story
The game follows a simple story line. Aliens fly in a spaceship while listening to music, someone pushes a button they shouldn’t, and then they crash land on earth. Once they warped earth into an unrecognizable land, they aliens try and fix things and get back into space.
Due to this game being very simple and seems to be geared towards a younger audience, this short and simple story line is perfect.
Gameplay
Back in the 90’s, games were a lot more simple yet still enjoyable! Either coop (local and online), or by yourself, you explore the funk-inized styled earth. You collect presents along the way which give you items that’ll help on your adventure. Dodging weird and strange humans to make it to the next portal. After you go through the portal, you go to the next level. Rinse and repeat. This game is perfect for a lazy gaming day or for younger kids.
I never felt frustrated while playing this game even when a present/item I used ended up torpedoing me down 5 levels and me having to run back. It was actually rather funny. This game will cause you to burst out laughing at all of the chaos it can cause!
You can play local coop with 2 people or online with up to 4! Sound & Music
The sound and music in this game is a mix between old skool and just plain funky. It fits the theme of the game very well and I constantly found myself rocking out with it and just enjoying it. The sounds are silly and enjoyable and give me major nostalgia. Yes, the sounds can sometimes be a little “tinny” and low quality but I believe that’s on purpose.
Final Thoughts
If you played the original ToeJam & Earl, you will absolutely love this game. Younger kids will also be a fan of this game for its simplicity and silliness. Grab a can of Surge or Crystal Pepsi and enjoy your flashback to the 90’s! Happy Gaming!
- Apr 2, 2019
The start of a brand new month means multiple free games for those subscribed to various online services. Amazon and Twitch Prime Members have a great lineup for April 2019, including two fun games: Joggernauts and Inner Space!
Joggernauts
In this 1-4 player cooperative game, you coordinate a team of adorable cartoon characters who are stuck on auto-run. Discover various platforming puzzles and help the Joggernauts find all of C.O.A.C.H.’s missing trophies!
For more information about Joggernauts, check out one of our other articles featuring the game and other family-friendly favorites:
http://mypotatogames.com/5-family-friendly-games-recently-released-on-steam/
Inner Space
Inner Space is a relaxing, beautiful exploration game. Soar through skies and dive into deep oceans in search of the ancient gods of the Inverse.
For the month of April, all Amazon and Twitch Prime members can grab their free copies: Here!
Don’t have Twitch or Amazon Prime? No problem, both of these games are available for purchase on PC and console. Happy Gaming!
- Apr 1, 2019
Cleaning has never been so adorable! ThinkGeek.com posted on April 1st, 2019 their brand new Kirby Robot Vacuum. This vacuum features an adorable Kirby that will help suck down all your home’s messes.
Kirby Vacuum is taking a little snooze while recharging When docked at it’s station, the Kirby Vacuum will sleep soundly as it recharges for it’s next cleaning adventure. Once you tell Kirby to start cleaning, he will start to inhale and suck down all of the mess! When it’s full, Kirby will sit there all bloated-like letting you know that he needs to be emptied.
The retailer prices this adorable Kirby for $299.99 – but there’s a catch:
This product isn’t actually real. This is just one of Thinkgeek’s April Fool’s products!
Disappointed with the fact that this isn’t real, I guess we will just have to wait for an actual Kirby vacuum. In the mean time we can join Kirby in his dream land and dream about the vacuum that could’ve been.
Happy April Fool’s Day and Happy Gaming!
