What we’ve been playing – advent calendars, tricksy trials, and ages of dragons

13th December

Hello and welcome back to our weekly recap of the video games we’ve been playing recently. This edition features a mix of temporary rule changes in a game, a unique real-life advent calendar experience, and the completion of a lengthy fantasy adventure.

For more insights into our gaming experiences, check out our What We’ve Been Playing archive.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Xbox Series X

Reflecting on my year of gaming on Xbox through Spotify Wrapped, I was surprised by the time I had invested in playing Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Despite not having completed the game yet, I’ve already spent a considerable amount of time immersed in this fantasy adventure.

While I haven’t reached the conclusion of The Veilguard, Eurogamer’s main missions list suggests that I’m only halfway through after investing 45 hours. The game’s stunning visuals and meticulously designed environments encourage players to explore at a leisurely pace, making it a captivating experience.

Completing side quests and striving for full faction reputation adds depth to the gameplay, promising another 45 hours of gameplay ahead. Despite the time commitment, I find myself savoring each moment in the game and embracing the journey ahead.

-Tom

Path of Exile 2, PC

In I go. Wish me luck? | Image credit: Eurogamer / Grinding Gear Games

Path of Exile 2 has captured my attention with its innovative design and challenging gameplay mechanics. The Trials of the Sekhemas, in particular, offer a unique twist by incorporating rule changes into the traditional ARPG format.

The Trials’ Roguelike elements force players to adapt and strategize, adding a layer of complexity to the game. Each trial presents a different set of challenges, requiring careful planning and execution to succeed. Despite the initial learning curve, I find myself drawn to the rewarding sense of achievement upon completing each trial.

-Bertie

Advent calendar, cardboard

Embark on a festive escape room adventure with a unique cardboard advent calendar. Join me as I navigate through a series of puzzles and challenges to unlock each day’s surprise, all while immersing myself in the holiday spirit.

A photo of Eurogamer reporter Victoria Kennedy holding up her escape room advent calendar. She's wearing a Santa hat and there's a Christmas tree behind her.
Image credit: Eurogamer

From unraveling cryptic codes to solving intricate puzzles, this year’s advent calendar presents a delightful challenge with each passing day. The absence of numbered doors adds an element of surprise and intrigue to the puzzle-solving experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Step into the whimsical world of the advent calendar and join me in unraveling its mysteries while indulging in some well-deserved treats along the way.

-Victoria