Review: Mechaconda

Mechaconda plays with a familiar approach that is known to anyone who owned a Nokia 3310. Snake was much-loved, and this Xbox title runs with that idea and evolves it into a hellish, addictive, and challenging experience. Think snake meets bullet hell madness, and you kind of get the right idea.

This top-down arena shooter roguelike was developed by Nato Games and published by QUByte Interactive. It is a single-player game that has a simple approach. Furthermore, it is super addictive thanks to its arcade mindset. Sadly, this makes it a little shallow, but I didn’t care. Instead, I focused on surviving each hellish arena and evolving my snake machine into a mean killing machine.

Mechaconda and the evil doctor.

Evil doctors tend to make an appearance when the world is about to come to an end. Well, I’m not sure that the safety of the globe is in question, but Dr EVIL’s army is causing a ruckus. The result is a robotic snake that must avoid every enemy while gaining new powers as they grow.

The story isn’t much of a starter, but it matters not. Instead, you focus on each of the levels you must overcome. With an array of different power-ups to choose from, new abilities to pick, and snake heads to select, your robotic serpent turns into a mean killing machine. However, getting to that stage is easier said than done, and you will fail many times before you are truly successful.

3 game modes and a refined idea.

Mechaconda offers 3 different game modes to experiment with. The first is the campaign. This is a linear approach to each core mechanic. Effectively, you must defeat waves of enemies in each top-down arena. The areas change depending on how far you have progressed, and this gets increasingly difficult. As you delve further into the madness, you’ll gain energy, and the snake will expand. This gives you the chance to improve your defensive or offensive prowess.

The second mode is a roguelike option. These short, sharp runs allow you to test out different builds without worrying about the core campaign. I enjoyed this option as it allowed you to evolve multiple times without the stress of undermining your progress. Although you lose everything whenever you fail, it was about the experimentation and seeing what worked. Finally, Boss Rush is enough to drive you crazy. It is a focused, intense, and challenging offering that pits you against the game’s bosses. This was enjoyable, but it is punishing, so expect to fail plenty of times.

No matter which mode you select, the arcade theme is consistent. Fast action, tough enemies, and ever-changing challenges will push you all the way. This approach makes it the perfect casual title, and I rarely spent more than an hour at a time trying new builds and mastering each stage.

Mechaconda is colourful, clean, but refined.

Mechaconda offers a refined top-down style that doesn’t push modern machines. This should be a complaint, but it isn’t. Instead, I liked the clean design, the colourful world, and the easy-to-identify sprites. Furthermore, it runs smoothly regardless of how busy the screen gets. Alongside the excellent performance, the level design is interesting, varied, and progressively challenging. This helps to keep things from stagnating when you fail repeatedly.

The audio offers an atypical arcade experience. The music is upbeat, punchy, and aggressive. This is supported by electronic and loud sound effects that match the on-screen madness. The weaponry has a nice electronic and futuristic edge to create a dramatic and dynamic soundscape.

Excellent controls.

Like many arcade titles, this one has a simple-to-understand control layout. Additionally, the inputs are responsive, and I appreciated the focus on d-pad controls. This had a delightful retro edge that was tough to ignore. Although the action is challenging, the controls don’t hold you back.

The 3 different game modes offer a layer of depth and replay value. Sadly, the action is a little repetitive, and some people will hate the tough mindset, but if you can get over the difficulty curve, you’ll enjoy a rewarding game that’ll demand you return for more.

Mechaconda is good but not special.

Mechaconda is one of those games that’ll appeal to a limited audience. It is fun, challenging, and great in small doses. However, it’s not going to set the world on fire. I enjoyed it because of my love of Snake, but many people have moved on from this basic mobile phone game. Accordingly, it is niche, but I recommend buying it here! Can you evolve and defeat Dr EVIL? Choose your parts, avoid every projectile, and become an all-powerful robotic snake.

Review: Obakeidoro 2: Chase & Seek

The game consists of two main modes:
Online Play: You can match up with all sorts of people inhabiting this spinning blue marble we call Earth. Even better, the title supports Nintendo’s voice chat, allowing you to use your real words to communicate and bond—which is a really nice feature, I must say.

Offline Play: Up to eight players can embark on a spooky ghost hunt via split-screen or local play. If neither of those floats your boat, you can jump into a single-player mode with CPU bots filling the empty slots where other players would be. And where exactly does this spooky hunt take place, you ask? Well, let me tell you, my dear reader…Those CPU freaks—or your fabulous friends, who are no doubt lovely—will be tasked with picking a team.

First up is the prosaically named Human Team, which consists of four main playable characters (some of whom are unlockable):
Hajime: A kawaii, pink-haired anime girl who has a strange fascination with Hanako-san—a creepy monster who mostly haunts toilets. I can’t help but feel like this creeper needs to be put on a watchlist somewhere.

Kuro: My personal favourite. He’s a charismatic, emo-librarian-looking fellow who looks like he’s come straight from a My Chemical Romance rock tour, and quite frankly, I love it.

Ponkichi: A little, timid raccoon girl with a dapper leaf hat on her hairy head. I’m not quite sure how this cute nocturnal mammal swindled her way onto the human team, but it’s best not to get bogged down in the logistics.

Akihiko: A blue-haired boy who, judging by his eyes, has just come off a week-long bender with the Gallagher brothers. Akihiko plans to become a monster researcher when he’s older and he certainly dresses the part. Though, I have to say, he’s wearing coffee-coloured suspenders and orange britches that don’t cover his ankles. Now, maybe this says more about me than the character designers, but damn—if I were hunting paranormal phenomena, one of the first things I would cover (well, maybe not the first thing, but at least the third) would be my goddamn ankles. You can’t be catching ghosts with bare ankles; only a fool would do such a thing.

Then we have the marvellous Monster Team, which features six playable characters. I won’t go into all six because I want to remain as spoiler-free as possible, but here are a few highlights:

Hanako-san: A famous influencer in the monster world. As mentioned, she’s the creeper who notoriously haunts the third bathroom stall (again, she needs to be put on a list).

Red Cape: A character purchasable from the in-game store. Imagine Batman’s The Riddler crossed with an army general, and that’s pretty much this dude.

Gangster Don the Toad: Last but certainly not least, the one, the only, notorious leader of the Toad Gang. I want this guy immortalised on a T-shirt.

Once you have picked your side, the game starts…
If you choose the Human Team, you and two other players—armed with nothing but a lantern—have one simple goal: run and hide from the solo player on the Monster Team. All you have to do is hold out for three minutes, which is much harder than it sounds. However, if so much as one human escapes, your team wins the match!
Now, on the ghoulish Monster side, you have a bit more to deal with. Your job is to hunt down and catch every single pesky player on the opposing team—which, I must say, is an absolute joy to do. Once you catch them, you get to throw them behind iron bars under lock and key. Fortunately for you, surviving humans can break their fellow inmates out of the trap cell, which leads to some genuinely great, chaotic teamwork.
Honestly, running feverishly away from a monster online feels exhilarating. The only thing I can equate it to is sprinting away from a hi-vis-vest-wearing community support officer as a teenager, right after you’ve (definitely not) gotten drunk on your parents’ stolen Pinot Grigio.
The controls are wonderfully simplistic. I think this is great because it never distracts from the action, meaning players of all skill levels can jump right in and enjoy it.

When you’re playing on the Human side:

Left Analog Stick: Moves your character.

X Button: Makes your character crouch.

A Button: Activates a rescue to release a teammate from the cell.

B Button: Makes you jump.

Y Button: Resets the camera.

When you’re playing on the monsters side, things are even more straightforward. Your primary goal is capturing humans, which you do by pressing Y, or by holding down X to unleash a devastating “super catch.”
The game also features an impressive variety of 12 different maps, ranging from eerie Twilight Monster School yards to claustrophobic Midnight Shadow alleys, with each location bringing its own shifting level of difficulty.

Now, let’s get down to the graphics.I have to say, I found the art style absolutely gorgeous. It’s a cross between anime and a straight-up Tim Burton sketch, featuring incredibly creative character designs. The asymmetric gameplay makes for glorious-looking maps and level design. What the game lacks in ultra-high-quality, flush textures, it more than makes up for with its striking, toonish art style—which heavily reminds me of Final Fantasy XV: Pocket Edition. So, with all things considered, where are we at with this multiplayer marvel?

Overall, I had a really fun time with Obakeidoro 2: Chase & Seek. The gameplay loop is perfect for quick sessions. Sure, it can get a bit repetitive after a while, but I had a blast playing it on my own with strangers online. I imagine if you could get a group of friends together on the couch, it would be a right laugh.The game delivers an equal mix of pure enjoyment and tense suspense. Coming in at a very reasonable £19.99, you really can’t complain. For all the reasons listed above, I give it a gracious 8.8 out of 10. If you like the sound of anything you’ve read here, give this one a go—I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

+ Simple, accessible gameplay and intuitive controls.

+ Gorgeous, striking art style that oozes personality.

+ Fantastic teamwork mechanics during intense prison breaks

-Matches can feel repetitive after extended play sessions.

Reviewed on switch 2

Review: Piano Trauma – Stress Deluxe

Piano Trauma – Stress Deluxe is a frustrating experience!

Have you ever wondered could you attach fire extinguisher to a piano and use that to propel yourself over an obstacle course? Piano Trauma – Stress Deluxe or PTSD for short answers that. Piano Trauma is the first project from developer Meltersoft and it’s advertised as physics-based platform game, you take control of a concert pianist who is late for the show rather than call a UBER you have to navigate various jumps and obstacles over rooftops and cars to reach the concert hall on his modified piano.

Handles like an egg on ice!

Controls are simple however mastering the momentum of your piano is anything but, you have to gauge when to accelerate and when not too and be very careful as the tiniest amount of extra speed can send your piano careering sideways down to the start undoing 30 minutes of progression in seconds! The game design is intended to cause frustration which is evident within seconds of playing as I accidently knocked over the helpful boards which give you movement instructions and spent 20 minutes trying to get up the first ramp…

While I am all for challenging game play, I found Piano Trauma just straight up unfair at times having such a huge amount of progression undone by a tiny clip of scenery made me mad however spending another 30 minutes to get to the same sport and making the same mistake made me want to scream as I watched my Piano tumble to the ground all the while being serenaded by the wonderful and relaxing classical piano score they have chosen for the soundtrack. There is an entire genre of games that are designed in this way such as Baby steps or Jump king and I have never really played one before and after playing Piano Trauma, I realise this type of game might not be for me if I’m honest it got to a point where failing stopped being fun and more of a waste of my time.

Fun but has limited replayability.

There is a multiplayer option in the game menu which sadly I never managed to get to work, I can imagine if you were trying to navigate the course against over players knocking each other off would be frustrating but also hilarious and would improve replayability as the single player game has no way to save progress so having to start from the beginning each time you play some may find a bit of a grind. There is no leaderboard which is a shame as it would be nice to see how you stack up against other players.

Bright and clean visuals.

The game looks nice and seems to run very well, while it is very difficult to control your piano you do get a good sense of momentum and physics. The game ran well on my handheld Lenovo legion GO S although I found it much harder to play with the controller layout. The best part of the game is the wonderful soundtrack they use classical piano scores throughout, though I do wonder what Chopin would think to find his music used as a backdrop to a game where you control a flying piano.

Brutal, challenging and sometimes fun.

After playing Piano Trauma for several hours, I did for the most part find it a fun game, however its far too infuriating for lengthy game sessions for me at least although I am very curious about how the multiplayer will run and will check back in to try that aspect. In short if you want a game to raise your blood pressure you can try it out here.

Review: Berkeley glasses

The Berkeley glasses are the most recent addition to the Autumn range from GUNNAR. I’ve recently looked at the RIOT glasses in a wonderful cobalt blue. However, today, I’m looking at a warmer finish thanks to the Cranberry colourway. The rounded frames offer a classic design with a professional edge. Yet the rich red colour adds a cheeky layer that shows you have fire in your belly, and you mean business.

This entry-level option is part of GUNNAR’s Signature range. This doesn’t mean that they’ve cut corners; instead, they’ve removed some of the accessories to keep the cost down. This is a great option if you are new to blue light glasses and you don’t wish to shell out large sums of money. 

GUNNAR is a market leader when it comes to blue light protection. They offer patented technology to improve your eye health. Moreover, their products look incredible, and they are built to last!

What’s in the box of the Berkeley glasses?

  • The packaging is simple but pleasant to look at. Moreover, it can be recycled.
  • The Berkeley glasses come in several colours. The Cranberry finish is new for Autumn, and it looks amazing!
  • A soft microfibre pouch keeps the glasses safe.

Technical aspects.

GUNNAR offers the best eye protection for office workers, gamers, and people who stare at a phone all day. Blue light is a real pain, and people don’t realise the negative impact it has on their eyes and their overall health. A lack of productivity, fatigue, interrupted sleep patterns, headaches, dry and itchy eyes, and a reduction in reaction speed are just some of the symptoms. Luckily, the Berkeley glasses help to reduce many, if not all, of these issues.

The 65% blue light and 100% UV light protection is the ideal option if you can cope with yellow-tinted lenses. Alternatively, you can go for 35% blue light protection if you need better colour clarity. Either way, your eyes will thank you. I appreciate the yellow tint as it reduces the harsh black-on-white colours of emails and Word documents. Moreover, whenever you have to sit close to a screen, it reduces that unwanted glare. The result is increased productivity as you can stay in front of your screen for longer.

If you have to wear +/-5 prescription lenses, you can organise this at the checkout. I’m not a streamer, but if I were, I wouldn’t want glare and reflections to put my audience off. Thankfully, the G-Shield protection offers anti-reflective benefits to improve your streaming. This is ideal as it is a win-win for everyone involved.

Build quality.

The durable nylon frame is surprisingly lightweight. Moreover, the rounded frame is comfortable, and the hinges have some flex to prevent temple pressure. This is ideal whenever you match it with a pair of Turtle Beach headphones. The glasses certification helps to prevent pressure and headaches when you combine both gaming accessories.

The durable multi-barrel hinges are designed to withstand roughhousing while offering extreme comfort. This is ideal if you have a bit of a temper and your accessories go flying. Although the Berkeley glasses are not indestructible, they will resist some mishandling when you throw them on your desk in a rage.

The Signature range drops some of the nice-to-haves. Accordingly, there is no cleaning cloth or hard case. This may disappoint some people, but the slight reduction in accessories is balanced by the affordable price point. Therefore, it is a cut I was willing to accept.

Are the Berkeley glasses worth it?

If you like a vibrant pair of glasses that deliver a professional edge and durable build quality, then the Berkeley glasses are perfect. Not only do they look and feel great, but they are built to last, and they will improve your work and gaming life. Accordingly, they are great, and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Berkeley glasses from GUNNAR have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: RIOT glasses

The RIOT glasses from GUNNAR are not a new release for 2026. The frame has been out for a while, but I love the classic design. What is new, however, is the colourway for this Autumn. The Crystal Cobalt option is a new addition to the range. This cool, interesting, and eye-catching finish adds some flair to a fairly classic design. Therefore, it is ideal if you want a little bit of a conversation starter without the outlandish nature of other GUNNAR products.

This Signature product is an entry-level option. This may seem like a low-key affair, but it is not. Instead, it allows gamers, office workers, and those who stare at a screen all day to benefit from blue light technology at an affordable price. Furthermore, the classic, rectangular design suits many face types. Accordingly, these glasses will be the perfect option for many people.

What’s in the box of the RIOT glasses?

  • The packaging is simple and understated. It’s also robust and recyclable.
  • The RIOT glasses come in an array of colours. Crystal Cobalt looks great, and I like the nylon frame, clean style, and lightweight design.
  • A soft case is provided to keep the glasses safe.

Technical aspects.

The RIOT glasses come in an array of different lens types, and if you wear prescriptions, you can order +/-5 at the checkout. I don’t need prescription lenses, so I opted for the 65% blue light protection amber-tinted option. A lighter 35% option is also available if you need more colour clarity. I appreciated the yellow tinge as it reduces those harsh black-on-white contrasts. Furthermore, it helps with fatigue and other downsides of staring at a TV, mobile, or monitor for hours.

GUNNAR offers patented technology with every pair of glasses. The RIOT glasses are designed to keep your eyes moist during the toughest work and gaming sessions. This means that you will be more productive and feel fewer side effects. We’ve all experienced dry eyes, a lack of focus, or poor sleep after we’ve worked nonstop in front of a monitor. Alternatively, if you love to play competitively, you’ll know how much fatigue impacts your reactions. Thankfully, these glasses improve your reaction times while removing that horribly gritty feeling of dry eyes.

If you are a streamer, you’ll know how distracting glasses can be. The light reflects from the lenses, and this causes problems for your viewers. Thankfully, the G-Shield protection offers dual-sided anti-reflective qualities to reduce distraction for your audience.

Build quality.

I’ve looked at enough GUNNAR products to know that the build quality is second to none. Even though the RIOT glasses are an entry-level product, nothing is left to chance. You are offered an impressive 12-month warranty for peace of mind. Furthermore, the accessories are nicely built, and they’ll keep your glasses safe.

The lightweight nylon frame is hard-wearing, and once you slip them on, you barely notice them. This is ideal as you can protect your eyes without feeling weighed down. Additionally, the multi-barrelled hinges prevent pressure on your temples. This is perfect as they’ll adjust to many head types and you won’t suffer from pressure headaches when wearing these glasses for marathon sessions.

The stunning colourway is what makes these glasses stand out from the crowd. The icy blue is delightful, and the clean finish and lack of logos or details create an understated, classic, and professional look that’ll appeal to many people.

Are the RIOT glasses worth it?

If you are on the fence about blue light glasses, then the RIOT glasses should be on your radar. They are affordable while offering the protection of more expensive glasses from the GUNNAR range. Moreover, they are durable and have an impressive 1-year warranty. Consequently, I love them, and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The RIOT glasses from GUNNAR has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: He Who Watches

He Who Watches is a first-person puzzle game that has an unusual grasp of 3D spatial logic. The game is built around grid-locked movement, cardinal-direction-only interactions, and a series of interlocking mechanics. It all allows for a combination that a few puzzle games try to attempt. The level and puzzle design of the game is meticulous and has a standard that it is successfully able to draw comparisons from the genre legends. The game is also not shy about demanding a lot from its players, and it is shown early on.

Puzzle Design With Real Teeth

The selling point of He Who Watches is how deliberately it builds its systems. Besides being a first-person game, it does not allow movement in three dimensions. Players are locked in a fixed grid and are only able to act in four cardinal directions. This creates a feel that is reminiscent of turn-based and box-pusher games. Despite being rendered in a modern 3D engine, it feels similar to titles like Baba Is You. This is what makes He Who Watches stand on its own in the genre. The replication of a genre known for 2D clarity in 3D without losing the precision that makes these puzzles work is flawless. Every interaction of the game feels intentional. Furthermore, every mechanical component aligns with surgical precision, masking a level of logical depth that remains remarkably sophisticated.

He Who Watches also interestingly introduces its mechanics. The game does not dump all the mechanics at once on the players. It keeps the core concepts across each puzzle while slowly introducing new mechanics. These newly introduced concepts are also extremely synergistic with previous concepts. This allows the game to add genuine depth to the gameplay instead of simply overwhelming players. Environmental storytelling and cryptic secrets woven into the level design add another layer. This is especially worth exploring for players who want to dig past the immediate puzzle in front of them. The atmospheric and thematic richness of the game is also extremely immersive in the genre.

A Difficulty Curve With a Real Cliff

The difficulty curve of He Who Watches is brutal, to say the least. It is not a deal-breaker, but it is a steep curve. The early levels of the game are smooth and have a logical difficulty curve. It allows the players to ease into the game’s core mechanics at a solid pace. Then, out of nowhere, the curve breaks hard. Around the third and fourth chambers, the difficulty really spikes up, to the point that it feels like a completely different game. Such difficulty will always be a controversial point of discussion. Some players who want a challenging experience will welcome such difficulty. However, players who are new to the genre or are easing into the game will feel the sudden spike as unwelcoming. 

The hint system of He Who Watches also feels a bit underwhelming during those pivotal sequences where the logic becomes most opaque, as it consistently fails to illuminate the fundamental breakthrough required to solve a challenge, regardless of how frequently it is leveraged. Outside of the difficulty spike, the overall package is remarkably polished for a game developed by a solo indie dev. The soundtrack of the game is relaxing, providing a calm backdrop during intense mental work. You can easily lose track of time once you are pulled in, thanks to the level design.

Final Verdict

He Who Watches is an ambitious, tightly constructed puzzle game. It succeeds at bringing rigorous, grid-based logic puzzle design into a fully realized 3D space without losing any of its precision or clarity. Its steady mechanical teaching and richly atmospheric world make for some of the most satisfying puzzle-solving many players have experienced in years. The one real blemish is a difficulty spike partway through that isn’t well supported by the current hint system. This turns a small handful of puzzles into genuine roadblocks rather than satisfying challenges. For patient puzzle fans willing to push through that rough patch, or simply look up a nudge when needed, He Who Watches is an easy recommendation and one of the more genuinely original puzzle experiences in recent memory.

EDIFIER Showcases Cross-Scenario Audio Innovations at IFA as It Marks 30 Years of Excellence

As EDIFIER celebrates its 30th anniversary, the global audio technology brand arrives at IFA with a vision that goes beyond individual products.

Under the theme “Complete Audio Solutions for Every Listening Scenario,” EDIFIER will present its comprehensive portfolio of
audio products designed to enrich every part of modern life. Founded in Beijing in 1996, EDIFIER has been guided by a simple belief: great sound should be part of everyday life. From its first wooden multimedia speaker to today’s range of personal, home, professional, premium and gaming audio products, the company continues to combine craftsmanship, innovation and acoustic excellence to
deliver outstanding listening experiences wherever people are.

Audio Solutions for Every Lifestyle
Today’s consumers move seamlessly between commuting, working, creating, gaming, relaxing and entertaining. Each scenario calls for a different audio experience, and users increasingly expect products that are purpose-built for the way they live.

EDIFIER’s diverse product portfolio is designed to meet these evolving needs across every listening scenario. From true wireless earbuds for life on the move and portable speakers for outdoor enjoyment, to bookshelf speakers for home entertainment, studio monitors for creators, premium audio for discerning listeners and gaming gear for immersive play, every product is engineered to deliver exceptional performance for its intended use.

While each category serves a distinct purpose, they are united by the same commitment to superior acoustics, thoughtful industrial design and user-focused innovation. Across the entire portfolio, EDIFIER applies a consistent philosophy: technology should enhance everyday listening through excellent sound quality, intuitive functionality and products that fit naturally into modern lifestyles.

At IFA, visitors will experience EDIFIER’s complete range of audio solutions across dedicated product zones, spanning personal audio, home entertainment, professional studio monitoring, premium Hi-Fi and gaming. In addition to the latest product launches, the EDIFIER stand will feature a dedicated Premium Hi-Fi area showcasing the flagship S3000 MKII and the AIRPULSE lineup, alongside a HECATE gaming zone highlighting immersive audio solutions for gamers. Together, these displays demonstrate EDIFIER’s commitment to delivering purpose-built audio solutions for every listening scenario.

IFA Highlights
XR6 Professional Studio Monitor
The EDIFIER XR6 is a professional active studio monitor engineered to deliver accurate, referencegrade sound through advanced acoustic and intelligent calibration technologies. Its standout feature is an integrated room acoustic calibration system that combines onboard DSP with dedicated PC software to optimize performance for different listening environments, ensuring consistent and reliable monitoring. A rigid full aluminum enclosure minimizes resonance and cabinet coloration, while the true three-way acoustic design and high-performance driver units provide exceptional clarity, precise imaging and low distortion. Carefully tuned for a flat on-axis and off-axis frequency response, the XR6 delivers accurate sound reproduction, making it an ideal monitoring solution for professional studios and home creators alike.

M90 Bi-Amped 2.0 Speaker & MW6T Compact Powered Subwoofer
Together, the M90 Bi-Amped 2.0 Speaker and MW6T Compact Powered Subwoofer deliver a complete home audio solution that combines premium sound, versatile connectivity and spaceefficient design. The M90 provides detailed, room-filling stereo sound with 100W RMS output, Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, and seamless connectivity including HDMI eARC, Bluetooth 6.0 with LDAC, USB-C and optical inputs. Complementing the system, the MW6T subwoofer adds powerful, deep bass with 210W RMS output, dual 6.5-inch woofers and room acoustic compensation for balanced performance in any living space. Together, they create an immersive audio experience for music, movies, gaming and everyday entertainment while integrating effortlessly into modern homes.

WH950NB Pro Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones
The WH950NB Pro combines adaptive hybrid ANC with immersive sound for premium everyday listening. An 8-microphone noise-cancelling system, dual dynamic drivers and spatial audio with head tracking deliver rich, detailed audio, while a six-microphone AI call system, Bluetooth 6.1 and up to 70 hours of battery life (ANC off) ensure seamless performance throughout the day.

STAX SPIRIT Planar Magnetic Headphones
Representing EDIFIER’s premium personal audio lineup, the STAX SPIRIT series delivers highfidelity listening through advanced planar magnetic driver technology. Designed for discerning listeners, creators and music enthusiasts, it combines exceptional detail, low distortion and accurate sound reproduction with wireless convenience and premium craftsmanship. Inspired by decades of acoustic expertise and refined through EDIFIER’s commitment to innovation and design, STAX SPIRIT offers an immersive, reference-quality listening experience for those seeking uncompromising portable audio performance.

Looking Ahead
As EDIFIER celebrates its 30th anniversary, the company remains committed to enriching everyday life through exceptional sound. By combining acoustic engineering, innovative technology and thoughtful design, EDIFIER continues to develop purpose-built audio solutions that meet the evolving needs of listeners across every environment. Whether commuting, working, creating, gaming, relaxing or enjoying premium Hi-Fi, EDIFIER is dedicated to delivering the right audio solution for every listening scenario—today and for the decades ahead.

Review: Edifier MR4.5 Bi-amped Studio Monitor Speakers

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Here is our review of the Edifier MR4.5 Bi-amped Studio Monitor Speakers.

The new MR4.5 – a new studio monitor designed for creators, producers and music enthusiasts seeking professional-grade sound in a versatile desktop speaker.

Positioned between the popular MR4 and flagship MR5, the MR4.5 delivers accurate, balanced audio for music production, video editing, content creation and everyday listening. Its bi-amplified design, Hi-Res Audio certification and wide frequency response ensure users hear every detail with precision.

Features

  • Flat frequency response from 50Hz to 40kHz
  • 80W (RMS) total output power, with SPL up to 98dB (@ 1 meter)
  • Fine-tuned 4.5″ mid-bass drivers and 1″ silk dome tweeters
  • Full digital signal processing, 2-way active crossover, and DRC
  • Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified
  • Multiple settings for room acoustic compensation
  • Balanced XLR, balanced TRS, RCA, and AUX inputs, with a headphone output socket
  • Bluetooth V6.0 audio receiver supporting multipoint connection
  • Dual preset sound modes and customizable EQs by the EDIFIER ConneX App
  • The MDF cabinet effectively reduces distortion and resonance

What’s in the box?

You get the speakers, the cabling to connect the two and a quick start guide.

A Closer Look

Final thoughts

The first thing you notice with the MR4.5s is that they don’t look or feel like budget desktop speakers. The cabinets are solid, the white finish on my review pair is clean without looking clinical, and the dimpled tweeter waveguide up front gives them a bit of visual character rather than just being a plain grille. Around the back is where things get interesting: alongside the XLR, TRS, RCA, and AUX inputs, you’ve got a high knob and a low knob for shaping the top and bottom end by up to 6dB, which is a genuinely useful thing to have physically on hand rather than buried in software.

Speaking of software, the ConneX app is where the room compensation lives. Desks and shelves do all sorts of unhelpful things to bass response, and being able to dial that back in from your phone rather than fiddling blindly with a knob is a nice touch. Bluetooth 6.0 with multipoint means you can have your laptop and your phone both paired at once and switch between them without re-pairing every time, which sounds like a small thing until you’re actually doing it several times a day.

Sound-wise, these are genuinely impressive for the price. The frequency response is rated flat from 50Hz to 40kHz, and while I can’t verify that with lab equipment on my desk, what I can tell you is that the mid-bass drivers hit with real authority for their size and the silk dome tweeters keep the top end smooth rather than harsh. Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification means you’re not losing much even over Bluetooth with LDAC, which isn’t something you could say about most desktop speakers in this price range a couple of years ago. Vocals sit forward and clear, cymbals don’t turn into a wash of noise, and even at higher volumes the 80W of total power doesn’t seem to run out of headroom.

What I like most about the MR4.5s is that they don’t force you to choose a lane. Plug in over XLR from an audio interface and they behave like proper near-field monitors for mixing. Hook up over Bluetooth from your phone and they’re perfectly happy being a very good pair of desktop speakers for music while you work. The rear EQ knobs and the app-based room compensation mean you can actually tune them to your space rather than just hoping for the best, and the build quality feels well beyond what £199.99 usually buys you.

Are they going to replace a dedicated pair of flagship studio monitors for serious mixing work? Probably not. But for anyone who wants one set of speakers that can competently handle both work and play, the Edifier MR4.5 makes a very strong case for itself. Recommended.

The Edifier MR4.5 is available now in either Black or White for £199.99.

You can learn more from the Edifier website.

Review: UGREEN MagFlow Pro Magnetic Power Bank

Here is our review of the UGREEN MagFlow Pro Magnetic Power Bank.

Features

  • 45W Fast Charge & 30W Self‑Recharge: 45W USB‑C output powers laptops and phones; 30W input refills the bank fast. Charges iPhone 17 Pro Max from 0 to 65% in just 30 mins – perfect for quick top‑ups 
  • CryoPulse Multi‑Layer Cooling: Liquid layer cooling-advanced heat dissipation keeps temperatures low even during 25W wireless charging, preventing throttling and extending battery life for safer, consistent power 
  • Smart Digital Display: Real‑time readout shows charging wattage, battery level, and total cycle count – always know your status at a glance, no guessing 
  • Qi2 Certified Magnetic Wireless: 25W fast wireless charging with ultra‑strong magnets that lock your phone in perfect alignment – stable, efficient, and hassle‑free every time 
  • Built‑in Cable & Carry Strap: The integrated USB‑C cable doubles as a durable carry strap, tested over 10,000 bends – always have a cord ready, tangle‑free and convenient 
  • Universal Device Compatibility: Works with iPhone 17/16/15–12, Pixel 10/Pro/XL, Galaxy S25/S26, iPad, AirPods, and all USB‑C gear – delivers up to 25W for the latest models

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

Inside the box you’ll find the MagFlow Pro power bank itself, with its built-in USB-C cable already attached and ready to go.

The magnets are the first thing you notice. Line the bank up anywhere near the back of a Qi2-compatible phone and it snaps into place on its own, no fumbling required. That alignment matters more than it sounds like it should, since a wireless charger that’s even slightly off-centre can quietly drop from a fast charge down to a trickle without you noticing.

The built-in cable is the other clever touch. Rather than digging around for a loose USB-C lead, it folds out from the side of the bank and doubles as a strap for carrying the thing around your wrist or clipped to a bag. UGREEN says it’s been tested past 10,000 bends, and it feels solid enough in hand that this isn’t just a spec sheet number.

Charging speed is where the MagFlow Pro earns its “Pro” badge. UGREEN quotes an iPhone 17 Pro Max going from 0 to 65% in around 30 minutes on the wired 45W output, and while your mileage will vary depending on the phone and cable path, that’s a genuinely fast top-up for a power bank this size. The 25W wireless side is no slouch either, and the CryoPulse cooling system is there specifically to stop that speed from tailing off once the bank starts warming up, which is the usual trade-off with high-wattage magnetic charging.

Don’t worry if you’re the type who wants to know exactly what’s happening mid-charge. The digital display sits flush on the front and cycles through wattage, remaining battery and how many charge cycles the bank has been through, so you’re never just guessing whether it’s actually delivering 25W or quietly throttling.

The UGREEN MagFlow Pro is a power bank built around convenience as much as raw numbers. The 10,000mAh capacity won’t be the biggest you can buy, but the combination of strong magnetic alignment, a built-in cable that doubles as a strap, and a display that actually tells you what’s going on puts it ahead of most magnetic banks that skip those details. The 45W wired output and 30W self-recharge speed mean it keeps up with laptops as well as phones, and the CryoPulse cooling gives it a bit more staying power under sustained use than most Qi2 chargers offer.

The UGREEN MagFlow Pro Magnetic Power Bank is available later this month priced around £109.99, and you can pre-order it now.

You can learn more from the UGREEEN website.

Review: UGREEN MagFlow 2-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Wireless Charger

Here is our review of the UGREEN MagFlow 2-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Wireless Charger.

The foldable charger measures 60 × 72 × 27mm when closed, fitting into a pocket or bag. Open, it delivers up to 25W to iPhone and 5W to AirPods simultaneously, with ThermalGuard regulating heat. A wider anti-slip earbuds pad simplifies placement, while cool-touch glass surface improves comfort. 

Features

  • Ultra Fast Qi2 25W Magnetic Charger: The Qi2-certified fast wireless charger for Magsafe delivers up to 25W, charging iPhone 17 Pro Max to 50% in around 30 minutes — 2.7x faster than a standard 7.5W Qi wireless charging station 
  • Foldable & Double as Phone Stand: UGREEN 2-in-1 foldable magnetic wireless charger – Magsafe compatible stand folds down to pocket size (2.37 x 2.86 x 1.05 in) and flips into a sturdy magnetic stand — ideal for StandBy mode, video calls and hands-free browsing whilst charging 
  • Powerful Magnetic Hold: Strong built-in magnets keep your iPhone perfectly aligned on the Qi2 25W wireless charging for magsafe station stably, uninterrupted charging — no slipping, no misalignment, no waking up to a half-charged phone 
  • Stays Cool, Charges Safely: The 2 in 1 magsafe compatibale charger stantion features premium glass charging surface dissipates heat, whilst Thermal Guard monitors the temperature 200 times per second, backed by 8-layer safety protection including foreign object detection (FOD), overcharge, overcurrent and short-circuit protection 
  • Wide Compatibility & Important Notes: The fast Qi2 magnetic wireless charger stand Works with iPhone 17/16/15-12 Series, iPhone Air, AirPods/AirPods Pro and Qi-enabled Galaxy and Pixel phones. NOTE: After an iOS update, restart your iPhone to maintain optimal wireless charging speed. For the best charging performance, use a single-port 45W or higher PD car charger (not included)

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The magnets are the first thing you notice. Line your iPhone up anywhere near the charging surface and it snaps into place on its own, no fumbling about trying to find the sweet spot like you do with some cheaper pads. Once it’s locked on, it stays put, even if you nudge the desk or pick your phone up to glance at a notification and set it back down.

Charging speed is where the MagFlow actually earns its keep. UGREEN says it’ll take an iPhone 17 Pro Max to 50% in around 30 minutes, which lines up with what we saw in daily use, and it’s a genuinely noticeable step up from a standard 7.5W Qi pad. Just remember that 25W figure depends on you supplying a 45W or higher USB-C adapter yourself, as it’s not in the box, so don’t expect that speed if you’re plugging it into whatever old 5W brick you’ve got lying around.

Folding the charger flat and slipping it into a bag is easy enough that it actually becomes a habit, and flipping it back out into a stand is just as quick. Propped up in stand mode it’s sturdy enough for StandBy mode, video calls or watching something hands-free on the sofa, and it doesn’t wobble or tip over if you tap the screen.

The glass charging surface stays cool to the touch even during a long charge, which is down to the Thermal Guard checking the temperature 200 times a second, and the 8-layer safety protection (foreign object detection included) means you don’t need to think twice about leaving it plugged in overnight or tossing your keys down next to it by mistake.

Compatibility is broad too – anything from the iPhone 12 up through the 17 Series works, along with the iPhone Air, AirPods and AirPods Pro, and Qi-enabled Galaxy and Pixel phones if you’re not on iPhone. That’s a lot of ground covered for one charger.

The UGREEN MagFlow 2-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Wireless Charger is available now priced around £43.99.

You can learn more from the UGREEEN website.

Review: UGREEN Nexode Pro Smart Display Desktop Charger

Power up your entire desk with the UGREEN Nexode Pro Smart Display Desktop Charger, an 8-port GaN charging station designed for people who are done hunting for spare plug sockets.

Features

  • 300W 8-in-1 GaN Charging Station: With 6*USB-C ,1*USB-A and 1*DC ports share a blistering 300W total output. It only takes 28 minutes to charge two MacBook Pros from 0% to 50%. The GaN desktop charging station consolidates bulky adapters into one sleek unit to keep your home office desk impeccably tidy 
  • PD 140W Fast Charging: The USB-C 300W laptop charger features USB-C1/C2/C3 ports that support up to 140W of high-efficiency ultra-fast charging when used individually. This means it can charge your iPhone 17 Pro Max from 0% to 65% in just 30 minutes, delivering an exceptionally fast and efficient charge 
  • TFT Display & App Control — Monitor real-time wattage, voltage, current, active charging protocol and temperature — both total and per-port — at a glance on the built-in screen. Tap into the app to switch between Fast, Low-Temp, Port Priority and Custom modes, tweak screen brightness to suit your desk setup, and set a sleep timer so the display dims automatically overnight 
  • Full-Core Protection System — This USB C GaN charger checks internal temperature 200 times every second, shielding your MacBook, iPhone, iPad and other devices from overcurrent, overvoltage, short-circuit and overheating in real time. The flame-retardant casing and graphene-copper heat sink keep things cool , so you can fast-charge your full desk setup overnight 
  • Universal Compatibility: Covers over 1,000 devices: MacBook series, ThinkPad, XPS, HP laptops, iPad Pro, iPhone 17-8, Galaxy S/A, Pixel, Surface Pro, Steam Deck, Switch, AirPods and more. With PPS, PD 3.1 and QC support, every device charges at the right speed — just plug in and go

Final Thoughts

The first thing you notice about the Nexode Pro is that little screen sitting front and centre. It’s not just there to look clever – it actually tells you something useful. Plug in a laptop and a phone at the same time and the display updates instantly, showing exactly how many watts are going to each port. No more guessing whether your charger is actually pushing full speed or quietly throttling in the background.

Build quality feels solid rather than flashy. The casing is matte, the vents are generous, and the whole thing stays reassuringly cool even when you’ve got two MacBook Pros hammering away on the C1 and C2 ports at once. UGREEN has clearly leaned on the GaN tech here to keep things compact – this is a lot of charger for a fairly small footprint on your desk.

The app is where the Nexode Pro earns its “smart” name. Pairing takes a minute, and once it’s connected you can dig into per-port settings, tweak the screen brightness, set a sleep timer so the display doesn’t glow all night, or pick a Low-Temp mode if you’d rather prioritise longevity over raw speed. It’s a level of control you don’t usually get from a desktop charger, and it’s genuinely handy rather than gimmicky.

Charging speed is really the headline here, and it lives up to it. Getting two MacBook Pros to 50% in under half an hour is no small thing, and the same goes for the iPhone 17 Pro Max hitting 65% in 30 minutes. With 300W split across eight ports, there’s enough headroom to top up a laptop, a tablet and a couple of phones all at the same time without anything slowing to a crawl.

UGREEN says the Nexode Pro covers over 1,000 devices, and that tracks with what’s on offer: MacBooks, ThinkPads, XPS and HP laptops, iPad Pro, iPhones from the 8 through to the 17 range, Galaxy phones, Pixel, Surface Pro, Steam Deck, Switch and AirPods are all catered for, thanks to broad PPS, PD 3.1 and QC support. For anyone juggling a desk full of devices from different brands, that’s exactly the kind of flexibility you want.

The safety features are worth a mention too. Checking internal temperature 200 times a second sounds like overkill until you remember this thing is pushing 300W through a single brick sitting a few inches from your keyboard. Between the flame-retardant casing and the graphene-copper heat sink, it’s clear UGREEN built this with peace of mind in mind, not just speed.

If there’s a catch, it’s that eight ports of 300W performance isn’t cheap, and this is very much a charger for people who actually need to charge multiple demanding devices at once rather than a single phone overnight. But for a home office or a shared desk with laptops, tablets and phones all competing for power, the Nexode Pro handles it without breaking a sweat.

The UGREEN Nexode Pro Smart Display Desktop Charger is available now priced at £159.99.

You can learn more from the UGREEN website.

Review: UGREEN MagFlow Pro Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand

Keep your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods topped up from a single stand with the UGREEN MagFlow Pro, a 3-in-1 magnetic charger built for anyone who’s fed up with a desk full of tangled cables.

Powered by Qi2.2 certification and built-in magnets for perfect MagSafe alignment, it delivers up to 25W to compatible iPhones, with 5W going to your Apple Watch and another 5W to your AirPods at the same time.

What sets the MagFlow Pro apart is UGREEN’s CryoPulse TEC Active Cooling system. Instead of relying on a basic fan, it uses a thermoelectric cooler to pull surface temperatures down as low as 11°C, up to 18°C cooler than a standard charger, all while running at under 15dB so it won’t distract you while you work. A small smart display sits front and centre, giving you a real-time read on charging status, temperature and power distribution, and a double-tap toggles the fan and screen on or off.

Features

  • CryoPulse TEC Active Cooling: The Qi2.2 wireless charger for MagSafe built-in thermoelectric cooler keeps your phone cool for safer, more stable wireless fast charging — surface temperature as low as 11°C, up to 18°C cooler than non-cooled chargers, and quieter than 15dB, so peak speeds last longer 
  • 3-in-1 Fast 25W Wireless Charger: Powers your iPhone, iWatch and AirPods at once on a single desktop stand. Qi2.2 25W magnetic fast wireless charging takes iPhone 17 Pro Max to 50% in just 26 minutes — 3x faster than standard 7.5W. NOTE: After an iOS update, restart your iPhone to maintain optimal wireless charging speed 
  • Smart Display & One-Touch Control: The MagSafe compatible charger Stand features a clear screen shows real-time charging status — phone surface temperature, 25W phone power, 5W earbuds and 5W watch power. Double-tap to toggle the cooling fan or display, long-press to adjust brightness 
  • Adjustable Multi-Angle Stand: Tilt the magnetic phone stand up to 90°and rotate 360°for the perfect angle — MagSafe compatible charger station is ideal for FaceTime, video calls or watching media while charging. Powerful built-in magnets keep your iPhone perfectly aligned and secure on your desk or bedside table 
  • Widly Compatible & Safe: Delivers 25W to iPhone 17/16 Series, 20W to iPhone Air, 15W to iPhone 12–15, Pixel and Galaxy, plus 5W to AirPods and iWatch. Eight-layer protection with foreign object detection and Thermal Guard monitoring 200 times per second

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The MagFlow Pro feels solidly built the moment you pick it up, and the magnetic alignment does exactly what it should — set your iPhone anywhere near the puck and it snaps into place with a satisfying click, no fiddling required. The stand tilts up to 90° and swivels the full 360°, so whether you want it upright for Face ID and video calls or angled flat on the desk, it’s a quick adjustment either way.

Where it really earns its “Pro” badge is the cooling. Wireless charging usually means a warm phone, but the CryoPulse TEC system keeps things noticeably cooler than a standard pad, and you genuinely can’t hear it running unless the room is dead silent. The little display is a nice touch too — instead of guessing whether your Watch is actually charging, you get status, temperature and power draw right there on the stand, and a double-tap is all it takes to dim it down for the bedroom.

Charging speed holds up well in practice. UGREEN quotes an iPhone 17 Pro Max reaching 50% in around 26 minutes, and while your mileage will depend on the adapter you pair it with, it never felt like a step down from charging with a cable. The Watch and AirPods pucks charge just as reliably alongside the phone, so you can dock all three overnight and wake up to everything full.

Safety is clearly something UGREEN has thought hard about here. Eight layers of protection, foreign object detection and a Thermal Guard checking temperature 200 times a second all sit quietly in the background, and in day-to-day use it simply means you can leave your gear on it overnight without a second thought.

The UGREEN MagFlow Pro Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand is available now priced at £119.99.

You can learn more from the UGREEN website.

A Closer Look at the Creamy Deco Baby Activity Case

Here we take a closer look at the Creamy Deco Baby Activity Case from Canal Toys.

The Creamy Deco Baby Activity Case brings the perfect mix of creativity and on-the-go cuteness. Design your own cool hair clips, trendy keychains and dazzling accessories using vibrant decoration cream and fun colourful designs.

The biggest surprise? It comes with a special edition Creamy Deco Baby, the ultimate collectible! This handy carry case keeps all your tools, charms, & decorations neatly organised, so you can create anywhere, anytime. Mix, swirl, & decorate at home or take your creativity on the go; crafting has never been this fun!

Features

Decorate frames, keychains, hairclips & loads of other accessories

Includes a special edition Creamy Deco Baby

Customise your baby with cute decorations and charms

Includes a stylish carry case to keep your tools and charms organised

Contents: x1 case, x3 decoration tubes, x3 nozzles, x1 tweezers, x1 bag of clay decorations, x1 bag of foil decorations, x7 charms, x3 keychains, x3 acrylic shapes, x3 hairclips, x1 baby, x1 heart blister, x1 instructions

Dimensions: 26.8L x 17W x 12.7H cm

The Creamy Deco Baby Activity Case is available now priced around £14.99 and is aimed at ages 6 and above.

You can buy it from Smyths Toys.

Review: Silicone Protective Case Set

The Silicone Protective Case Set for Nex Playground from JSAUX is as colourful as it is helpful. This exceptional product won’t be on the lips of many people. However, if you are one of the growing fanbase of the fantastic family console, the Nex Playground, this will be a must-have item. I have reviewed JSAUX products before, and their RGB case is still on my Steam Deck. Accordingly, I have a soft spot for this company and its amazing products.

This set comprises a case for the console and a colour-matched sleeve for the remote. The design is colourful, attractive, and perfect for the console’s intended audience. I loved the playful and grippy nature of the silicone material. Moreover, it doesn’t interfere with the console’s usability. Therefore, it is a win-win.

Technical aspects.

I know what you are thinking. “How can a reviewer discuss the technical aspects of a rubber case?” Well, you wouldn’t be wrong, but some key elements need to be discussed. The Silicone Protective Case Set is designed specifically for the Nex Playground. Consequently, it will not work with any other platform. This may seem restrictive, but it’s not that surprising. The protective case protects your console and remote, and the tight nature of the case would be inappropriate for other consoles.

Another key element to mention is the vibrant colours. We’ve all been there where we have lost the remote to a TV, Sky box, or in this case, the Nex Playground. When this happens, tempers fray, and people get a little unhinged. Thankfully, the bright colours ensure that you will not lose your remote behind the sofa or in one of your children’s bedrooms. Subsequently, you can focus on gaming and not searching for key elements of your console.

Build quality.

The Silicone Protective Case Set is extremely well built and designed. I loved the cute finish and how JSAUX has used the console’s design to create a playful and cartoon-like figure. The design fits the console perfectly, and the camera, LED light status, and tactile buttons are not affected. This is the perfect design choice as you get an entertaining finish without a downside.

The remote has a colour-matched rope grip to prevent you from dropping it during heated gaming sessions. Think about the Wii and every smashed TV. Well, no one wants a repeat of that madness, so the handy wrist guard prevents accidental slippages from ruining the fun.

The silicone material is particularly hard-wearing, and the colours remain vibrant no matter how tough you use it. The stunning green finish is nice to look at, and I like the unusual bird-like design. Finally, Nex Playground’s active-first approach makes you sweat. This may seem disgusting, but it’s the nature of the beast. Luckily, the remote case is easy to clean without damaging the robust material.

Is the Silicone Protective Case Set worth it?

The Silicone Protective Case Set is a bit of a niche product, but those who own a Nex Playground will want it. Kids are unruly when they get into gaming. Consequently, excitement takes over, and sensibility is out the window. Thankfully, the robust design of this case set keeps your family console unscathed. The case prevents the plastic from becoming damaged, and the vibrant colours help you find it in the most bizarre places. Accordingly, I think it’s great, and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on JSAUX can be found here!)

The Silicone Protective Case Set from JSAUX has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for a free and unbiased review!)