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Review: Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation

Cody Monfredi

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Dec 9, 2025

Review: Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation

Having been born in the late 90s, much of my childhood growing up included many things from that era that were passed down by my older sister and parents. I still remember fat-back televisions and VHS cassettes, SNES and the original PlayStation, and computers with disk drives. It isn’t a time I personally look back on, yearning for ‘the good ole days’, but it is a time I am thankful to have experienced. Video games were all physical with no microtransactions or paid DLCs. Animations took time due to many being hand-drawn, with no usage of things like AI generative tools. Cartoons had much more freedom in their jokes without the fear of offending anyone. These are things that I believe Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation took to heart and this is something I can appreciate.

Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation is an intense, retro shooter with great 90s appeal. Developed by Ciaran Games LLC and published by Silver Lining Interactive, the game was released on November 25th, 2025. The game’s star, Captain Wayne, is a pirate sporting a flashy pink jacket and a shotgun for an arm. As Captain Wayne, we must travel through eight expansive stages, mowing through groups of enemies. An endless mode, Riptide Rampage, is where players can collect trophies and beat high scores. The game is certainly packed full of intense combat with little time to rest—a perfect ‘vacation’ for someone like Captain Wayne. Through the course of the game, players can find new weapons, take on bosses and maybe even discover some secrets. So, grab your beer and buckets of chum, because it’s time to discuss Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation!

The Story: A Free Vacation on Orca Isle

The story begins with Captain Wayne winning a free vacation to Orca Isle, home of the legendary Orca Stone. Captain Wayne jumps at the promise of a vacation and treasure, but players sense trouble as two goons listen in. Before Wayne can depart for the isle, detective Stanley Steel Press appears on his boat. He is investigating Captain Wayne for previous pilferies, which Wayne answers with a giant fist to his face, punching him off of his boat. Detective Stanley is hit with the same paper about the free vacation and vows to try and stop Wayne from stealing the Orca Stone.

Thus begins the adventure and serves as a premise for the game’s story. Later Wayne encounters other characters, such as King, a robot king who had his crown stolen (by Wayne who pawned it) and a mysterious voice, Davy Jones, who gifts Wayne a Skull of Power. Most of the enemies belong to the Killer Whales, a mercenary group, and take on fish/whale/humanoid appearances. The story stays simple, and the cutscenes drive it forward. I enjoyed that, for the most part, where we began a stage is where the previous cutscene ended. This helped create a reasonable flow of events and I never had the thought of ‘wait, how did we get here?’

Captain Wayne’s story is like an episode of a cartoon from the 90s. The game leans into absurdity, delivers humor, and refuses to take itself too seriously. The voice acting channels a retro charm—unpolished, with the kind of stereotypical tones you’d expect from its characters, such as a pirate or a detective. Ciaran Games LLC clearly had a vision they were going for. They wanted to write a story that feels like a 90s cartoon and I think they did a great job at doing so. I could easily see future Captain Wayne games playing like new episodes to the story. Seeing the overall very positive reviews on Steam, I can definitely see Captain Wayne’s saga continuing.

The Gameplay: Bullets, Booze & Blood

Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation is a whole lot of action. For campaign, there is no central hub for you to pause and purchase upgrades. The action is non-stop and in abundance. Speaking of non-stop, constantly being on the move is important. Though Captain Wayne can pick up some booze to fill up his Gusto (his armor),enemies can easily take you down if you stand still. Most enemies are equipped with guns and the ones that do get up close pack a punch—literally. Wayne has a kick that not only knocks enemies down, but also serves as a quick movement ability. If you kick during a jump, you can cover a long distance quickly, allowing you to reposition. I thought it took some time getting used to, especially mid combat, but thankfully respawns take place at checkpoints rather than at the beginning of the stage.

Captain Wayne can get a small arsenal of weapons of his own. Starting off with a shotgun—he has a shotgun arm afterall—players will eventually come across other weapons such as a chain-gun for rapid fire or bottles of boom brew to light them up. The weapons are always available to you as long as you have the ammo. Of course, you can always resort to kicking and punching as well. Designers keep weapons simple and straightforward. Again, I think this feels reminiscent of early FPS boomer shooters. It’s relies more so on the action and violence rather than the fancy guns. Blood splatters from enemies will fill the map. The quick pace helps intensify the action. Even the seagulls want to get in on the action as they literally dive bomb you. The developers knew what they were doing and did it well.

The campaign stages have decent lengths, not too short and not too long. I also thought there was a nice flow to the stages and was never unsure of where to go next. Outside of eight campaign stages, there is also an endless mode called Riptide Rampage. With six different maps, this mode allows players to collect trophies and beat their high scores. I was never a high score chaser so this game mode isn’t for me, but I can certainly see the enjoyment in it. In all stages, both campaign and riptide, there are many secrets to discover as well. As is the case in other boomer shooters, some secrets are better or more hidden than others, but all are enjoyable to keep your eye out for.

The Graphics & Audio: A 90s Cartoon

I’ve already touched on most of what there is to say in this section so I’ll keep my thoughts short. As mentioned, the hand drawn cartoon art style is familiar to that of a cartoon from the 90s. This style mixed with the action and violence is super satisfying to look at. If you want over-the-top, high quality graphics, then this probably isn’t the game for you. Normally I might take a few points off for graphics, but because it’s intentional, I think it does it’s job effectively. I felt transported back to a 90s cartoon with flashy Captain Wayne as its star. I could see myself as a child watching an episode of Captain Wayne on a fatback TV, eating cereal on a Saturday morning.

Audio is decent as well. Outside of the voice acting which I talked about earlier, the music and other audio elements are what you expect. Explosions are loud and intense. Music ties in with the game’s action. Captain Wayne’s little comments during stages made me chuckle. Again, it feels similar to that of a 90s cartoon and is effective with that in mind. I did think the music was a bit too loud at first, but that’s an easy fix. I also really like the remixed pirate shanty tune when launching the game. If you know where I could find this, please let me know!

The Conclusion: Captain Wayne, A Pirate Legend

Overall, there’s not a whole lot to discuss when it comes to this game. Its short, simple and effective. On the flip side, there’s also not a whole lot to criticize either. Captain Wayne – Vacation Desperation knows what it wants to be. Ciaran Games LLC had a clear vision in mind when developing this game and I think they executed it well. I think for the right player, this could be a greatly enjoyable, albeit slightly short, experience. I can’t find a post-release roadmap from the developers, though it doesn’t feel like this game needs much. The game does well it’s supposed to do and isn’t horrendous in what could be improved. Would more stages or weapons be nice? Sure, but I don’t feel like this game needs it.

Captain Wayne probably won’t appeal to everyone and won’t have the longevity with just this one game, and I think that’s okay. For Ciaran Games LLC’s first game on Steam, the game does its job and has a clear image of what it wants to do. The developers could focus on making new Captain Wayne games, each one playing like a new episode in the series. I could see a future where there’s an “Ultimate Captain Wayne” bundle with five Captain Wayne games together at a cheaper price than buying them individually. Personally, I’m not sure I will be tuning in, as its not my genre of game. However, I’m still hopeful that this is just the beginning for Captain Wayne.

Arrghh, thank you for reading ye landlubbers!

TOZO Launches NC20 Series: Elevating Wireless Listening with AI Assistance and Intelligent Control

Andrew Edney

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Dec 9, 2025

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TOZO Launches NC20 Series: Elevating Wireless Listening with AI Assistance and Intelligent Control

TOZO, a leading innovator in smart audio technology proudly announces the global debut of its NC20 Series True Wireless Earbuds, featuring the TOZO NC20 and the flagship TOZO NC20 Pro. The new lineup blends cutting-edge audio innovation with smart AI integration, redefining the standard for immersive, intelligent wireless listening.

Main Features:

Smart Touchscreen Charging Case – Exclusive to TOZO NC20 Pro

The NC20 Pro also debuts a Smart Charging Case with Touch Control, allowing users to check battery levels, switch modes, and manage functions directly from the case-bringing effortless control and a futuristic aesthetic to the everyday listening routine.

AI Assistance at Your Command – A New Way to Control Audio

Leading the series, the TOZO NC20 Pro introduces AI Assistance at Your Command, an intelligent companion that enhances daily convenience and productivity. From real-time translation and voice-based interaction to instant access to smart controls, the NC20 Pro transforms the listening experience into an intelligent, connected journey.

Studio-Grade Sound with LDAC & Hi-Res Audio Wireless

Both the NC20 and NC20 Pro earbuds are equipped with LDAC codec and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, delivering up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution for studio-quality audio performance. Whether it’s crisp treble, rich mids, or powerful bass, every detail is faithfully reproduced for high-fidelity listening.

Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation up to -52dB

Engineered with Adaptive Hybrid ANC, the NC20 Series effectively suppresses ambient sound by up to -52dB, providing a serene, distraction-free environment ideal for travel, work, or relaxation.

Exclusive SDLC Patented Acoustic Technology

Featuring 12mm dynamic drivers with TOZO’s Super Diamond-Like Carbon (SDLC) diaphragm, the NC20 Series achieves remarkable sonic precision-delivering extended frequency response from 12Hz to 44.1kHz and ultra-deep bass that resonates with realism.

Immersive Spatial Audio and AI-Enhanced Calls

The Immersive Spatial Audio feature creates a captivating 3D sound field, enveloping listeners in lifelike acoustics. Meanwhile, a six-mic system with AI-powered noise reduction ensures crystal-clear voice clarity, even in noisy environments.

Ultra-Low Latency, Seamless Connection, and Smart Adaptation

Powered by Bluetooth 5.4 and optimized for 50ms ultra-low latency, the NC20 Series guarantees smooth, lag-free audio for gaming and streaming. With smart in-ear detection and EarTune Sound Compensation, the earbuds adapt intuitively to user behaviour and hearing preferences.

With the TOZO NC20 Series, TOZO continues to lead the evolution of wireless sound-merging high-fidelity audio, advanced noise control, and intelligent AI-driven innovation into a sleek, modern design.

The TOZO NC20 Series is now available through TOZO’s official website and major online retail platforms worldwide including Amazon.

Price & Availability:

The NC20 Pro are available from Amazon. Available in Titanium Champagne at £84.99 or Titanium Black at £99.99

Review: A Pizza Delivery

Luke Hedingham

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Dec 8, 2025

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Have you ever wondered what kind of journey your driver goes on when delivering your pizza?

Well now you can find out…kind of.

A Pizza Delivery puts you in the shoes of B, a pizza delivery rider on her final order of the day. But this isn’t just any order, it’s a peculiar one which will have her ride through a surreal world, where there are beautiful yet eerie locations and some rather interesting people, each dealing with their own pain and regrets.

As she journeys through this liminal realm to deliver the pizza, she’ll connect with its inhabitants and uncover the secrets shrouded by the mysterious world.

A short narrative experience which tells a heartwarming and interesting story

I’m a big fan of short games which impact you in some way, whether it’s a character/the story you can relate to, or simply because it had a certain aspect to it which just made it memorable. A Pizza Delivery was the latter for me, its artwork and liminal landscapes were really something and unlike nothing I’ve quite come across before.

There weren’t many different locations but there didn’t need to be, they were all full of so many different emotions and feelings which reflected each of the respective characters inner turmoil that resided there. Each of them had a different feel to them but at the same time they were all created for the same reason, which made even the most quiet and eerie location beautiful in a way.

There wasn’t an option to run so you were almost forced to take in the surroundings around you without rushing to move on, which meant that most of the game was a walking simulator. There were also some segments where you could ride your bike through the locations, so it was part driving simulator too. It was a nice blend of the two, even though it leaned completely towards one more than both, it made for an effective experience and really allowed you to take in the inhabitants feelings and struggles.

Puzzles were also present in the game, none of them were difficult enough to have you looking for help on the internet so you could figure them out with ease, but they broke up the walking and driving segments of the game well enough that it doesn’t make us sick of the repetitive gameplay.

The story whilst being pretty straightforward was touching in a way and no doubt had some players relating to some of the character’s stories. I don’t think it quite reached the emotional heights that the developer intended it to, but you definitely couldn’t help but feel some empathy towards them all in a way. From someone struggling with sleep, to one navigating the hardships that come with a relationship ending, they all had a story which perfectly complimented the liminal spaces they inhabited alone.

I do however feel like the story could have been delved into more and was missing something, don’t get me wrong, I thought the narrative was clear and fairly strong but there was no doubt room for it to be tapped into more. I think a few more characters to interact with more and a better conclusion could have made up for it, alas it was still good enough that it stood out more than other aspects.

Review: Duskpunk Demo

Jordy Matias

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Dec 7, 2025

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You wake up in a city with a hazy memory. All you can remember is your time in the war. The only thing that stays in your mind is seeing nothing but your dead comrades and being piled in a trunk with their corpses. Waking up in this city, you’re alone, cold, and hungry. Your only goal is to survive the harshness of the city and reality of being a war survivor. This is the world of Duskpunk, a story-driven RPG with time management and harrowing dice rolling. As you maneuver through this city, you will need allies, money, and a means to avoid the draft.

Gameplay

From the start of the game, you get to create your character with one of four different backgrounds. You can either start as a writer, veteran, criminal, or an engineer. For my playthrough of this review, I’ve played two different runs with the engineer and criminal. Depending on which background you chose, you will have different stats that fit thematically with that background. Criminals start with higher sneak while engineers start with a higher engineering stat. From the getgo, you are meant to play with your character’s strengths and weaknesses.

One of the first and most important aspects of this game is that it heavily emphasizes time management. Every action you take at a location will move one of your four trackers to the right. This is the same for both day and night. If you go to the factory to work, your tracker will move one space. This game uses a dice rolling system for a majority of actions in the game. Most of them require a specific stat for the check. If you want to use your materials to build an item, the roll would be based on your Engineering stat. You can either fail checks, succeed them, or partially succeed. A percentage chance will show the probability that you will perform on a check. Some checks will warn you about the negative effects of failing them, so choose wisely and be prepared.

With how you progress the game, a majority of your progress is based on the quests you complete and the locations you find. Characters in the city will assist you if you complete their requests. Some of them want you to bring them materials, others require you to make multiple checks at a single location. With helping more allies, more locations in the city will start appearing. Just from what I was able to play in the demo, there was a decent number of locations to go to. The only thing I was locked out of were the other sides of the city.

Another important point about this game is its Wanted system. At a certain point in the game, your character will be met up with officers who are forcibly enlisting people in the draft for the war. After refusing to go back, the game puts a wanted level on you that increases everyday. There are ways to bring your wanted level down, but that has to be balanced with keeping your other stats in check and helping your allies.

Choosing Your Story

In the city, you can invest your time with certain story lines that can change the courses of how you go through the game. In my engineer playthrough, I spent a lot of time working at the factory to earn money and materials. After performing checks there a certain number of times, events will occur at the factory with the characters you’ve met there. In the case of the factory, you can involve yourself in workers’ strikes and be a part of their union. That’s just one of many storylines you can experience. The game encourages multiple playthroughs just to experience these different scenarios.

Conclusion

Duskpunk provides an engaging experience for those who enjoy decision-based story games. Strategy is still an important factor on how you play this game, but it’s all worth it to experience this game’s rich story. Take this with a grain of salt as I had been reviewing the demo of Duskpunk, so I am unaware of what’s to come after a certain point. The full game is available on Steam for $19.99 USD and there is a free demo to try out if you’re curious about the game.

Review: Let’s Sing 2026

Daniel Waite

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Dec 7, 2025

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Let’s Sing 2026 is a great addition to the franchise! My family has loved playing this game for years. However, it has previously been criticised for not having enough depth. Well, roll on to this year’s version, and I cannot make that statement. Instead, this has a huge repertoire of songs, a new career mode, and a wonderful party edge.

This singing game was developed by Voxler SAS and published by PLAION GmbH. It is a single-player, local cooperative, or online competitive title. Furthermore, it is ridiculously easy to understand. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Why would I play this if I’m tone deaf?” Well, it is a fair concern, but the simple to follow tone lines make it easy, even if you don’t have the greatest voice.

Let’s Sing 2026 adds depth.

Let’s Sing 2026 adds a fun and fulfilling career mode to its roster of modes. Although this is relatively simple when compared to other games, we loved the chance to visit new venues, meet different characters, and sparkle on new stages. Alongside this, we enjoyed personalising our characters and losing ourselves in a wonderfully colourful singing world.

The action remains the same, but the “The Tube” tutorial system helps inexperienced, nervous, or tone deaf players understand where they are going wrong. This simple tool allows gamers to perform at their best while understanding the core fundamentals. This option should help people overcome their nerves and produce their best karaoke moments.

VIP pass.

Let’s Sing 2026 has a small base song list. This may disappoint some, but if you are familiar with the franchise, this won’t be a surprise. Instead, gamers are encouraged to opt for the VIP pass. If you have either of the more expensive digital games, you’ll enjoy 3 months or 12 months of VIP service included. PLAION GmbH kindly provided me with a 12-month pass, and my kids couldn’t be happier.

If you purchase any digital version, you’ll get a trial month to enjoy over 180 songs. This list is updated regularly, which helps keep things fresh. Recently, the service experienced an outage, which was frustrating. The publisher and developer worked diligently to resolve this issue, and the service was restored to full functionality within under four days.

Let’s Sing 2026 has an Asian vibe.

We all know that the Land of the Rising Sun loves karaoke. Therefore, I wasn’t surprised that Let’s Sing 2026 has a distinct Asian vibe. The vibrant colours, OTT character models, and general upbeat nature of the visuals are appealing. Additionally, kids will love the simplicity and easy-to-follow on-screen instructions.

The audio is as good as you’d expect and hope for. Each song plays note perfectly, and I had no issues with anything the game threw at me. Moreover, your audio experience will vary depending on the quality of your headphones, microphone, and speakers.

Excellent controls.

This allows multiple users to download the Let’s Sing app and play without the use of a high-end or expensive microphone. This is fantastic as it will enable more people to play without requiring microphones, additional controllers, and other unnecessary peripherals. If you are playing this alone, you’ll enjoy excellent and easy-to-follow controls. The tonal range for each song is clearly displayed, and if you are flat or off-key, the guide helps you get back on course.

This is the most in-depth addition to the franchise to date. The career mode adds a little extra sparkle to an otherwise enjoyable experience. Furthermore, there is the LS Fest mode (online action), Classic, and Feats (duets). Consequently, there is plenty to see and do as you sing your favourite songs.

Let’s Sing 2026 is a brilliantly loud and vibrant game.

This won’t be for everyone. However, if your family loves gaming nights and something silly and enjoyable, this is the game for you. Moreover, the free-to-download app ensures that playing this is a breeze. Accordingly, I think it is brilliant, and I recommend buying it here! Can you make your party nights sparkle? Pick your character, warm up your voice, and show the world you mean business.

Review: Hecate G1000 II Gaming Speakers

Andrew Edney

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Dec 7, 2025

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Here is our review of the Hecate G1000 II Gaming Speakers.

Tri-Mode Connection For Daily Use: USB connection, Bluetooth/wired free switching.
Upgrade Design With RGB Lighting: Transparent panel with cool RGB lighting.
Better Sound Quality To Meet Your Need: 2.5-inch full-range unit, sound quality meets different needs.
Sound Option Rich Your Choice: Professional EQ tuning, 3 kinds of sound options.
Best Design As Table Decoration: Rich color scheme, best table decoration.
Easy Control: APP control available

Final Thoughts

The G1000 II is small — each speaker is only about 9.2 cm wide — so it’s a good fit for modest desks or compact PC setups.

It uses 2.5″ full-range drivers (with a 16-core magnetic circuit), which deliver a surprisingly balanced sound for the size. Mids and highs come through clearly and treble gets enough definition for gaming, movies, or music.

The speakers support Bluetooth, USB-A/USB-C, and AUX, so you can connect them to a PC, laptop, console, or mobile device with ease.

The G1000 II offers multiple audio profiles (e.g. “Gaming,” “Music,” “Movie”), allowing you to tailor the sound to what you’re doing. This can make sound effects in games more punchy, or music more balanced.

If you like a bit of style, the G1000 II has dynamic RGB lighting with several modes, and a futuristic, gaming-oriented aesthetic that looks good on a rig or desktop setup.

These speakers are fine for a small room or sitting close to your PC, but they aren’t powerful enough to fill a large living space with rich sound, especially if you want loud music or immersive surround-like audio.

If you mostly play games at your desk (on PC or console) and want clear sound effects and decent positional cues without using headphones, these are a good, budget-friendly option.

The HECATE G1000 II is a good pair of gaming speakers: compact, versatile, easy to use, and visually appealing. They don’t deliver deep bass or “room-shaking” volume, but that’s to be expected from such a small, affordable system. For someone upgrading from built-in monitor speakers — or building a small, clean gaming PC setup — they’re very hard to beat at their price point.

The Hecate G1000 II Gaming Speakers are available now priced around £69.99 and are available in Black, White or Pink.

You can learn more about the Hecate G1000 II Gaming Speakers from here.

4 Essential Gaming Tips for Mastering Online Challenges

News
Tech

Andrew Edney

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Dec 7, 2025

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4 Essential Gaming Tips for Mastering Online Challenges

Online gaming is brutal these days. It is not about quick reflexes anymore, although they help. The complexity is insane now. Everyone is hunting for that edge. It does not matter if you are grinding through a 200-hour MMORPG or sitting at online poker tables until 3 AM — winning takes real work. These are not your typical “git gud” tips, but strategies that actually work when the pressure is on.

Tip 1: Adapt or Get Crushed

Online gaming will chew you up if you cannot roll with the punches. Remember when Fortnite completely changed their map? My buddy Jake had spent months perfecting his drop spots, but suddenly everything was different. He spent two weeks getting demolished because he could not let go of old strategies.

The players who thrived embraced the chaos by trying new routes and experimenting with different loadouts instead of complaining on Reddit. I jump into beta tests whenever I can. They are buggy messes half the time, but that is where you learn to think on your feet. When the “real” updates drop, you are already three steps ahead of everyone else.

Tip 2: Your Setup Actually Matters (More Than You Think)

Casual players always say “it’s not about the gear,” but they are wrong. Your mouse sensitivity in CS:GO is critical, and graphics settings that give you 144fps instead of 60 are game-changing. I spent two years playing on a terrible setup and wondered why I could not improve past a certain point.

I eventually upgraded, and it was a night and day difference. Even in online poker, where your gaming mouse does not matter much, knowing every hotkey and timing setting gives you an edge. While other players fumble around clicking buttons, you are already three moves ahead. Test everything, write down your settings, and stick with what works until it becomes automatic.

Tip 3: Communication Separates Winners from Losers

I have seen amazing individual players lose constantly because they cannot work with a team. Meanwhile, mediocre players with great communication dominate lobbies. If you watch any Overwatch match, the team calling out enemy positions and coordinating ults will beat mechanically superior players almost every time.

Use your mic, even if you think your voice sounds weird. Assign roles before matches start and call out everything — enemy locations, your cooldowns, and when you are rotating. My squad has a rule where if you see something important and do not call it out, you buy coffee for everyone next time we meet. It sounds silly, but our win rate jumped 30% after implementing it.

Tip 4: Study Your Mistakes (And Your Wins)

Analyzing gameplay separates good players from great ones. Recording gameplay feels weird at first, but the insights are incredible. I review every major loss to see what went wrong, if I could have positioned better, or if I missed obvious tells from opponents.

In games like online poker especially, these reviews are everything because you start seeing patterns in betting behavior that you would never catch in real-time. Find a coach or experienced player who will review footage with you because fresh eyes catch things you will miss every time. My improvement accelerated dramatically once I started doing weekly review sessions with better players.

Final Thoughts

Natural talent only gets you so far. I have watched incredibly gifted players plateau because they thought skill alone was enough. The players who keep improving adapt constantly, master their equipment, communicate clearly, and analyze everything.

These fundamentals work whether you are chasing leaderboard spots or just want to stop getting steamrolled in ranked matches. The digital battlefield keeps evolving, but these principles stay solid. Ready to level up? Start with one tip and master it completely before moving to the next.

Review: Vulcan II TKL keyboard

Daniel Waite

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Dec 6, 2025

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The Vulcan II TKL keyboard from Turtle Beach retains a classic look that dates back to the ROCCAT days. Although this may lack originality, I like the industrial, stripped-back appearance and the excellent RGB display. Furthermore, the slender casing gives this device a sleek, modern appearance. I accept that this design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and Turtle Beach has steered clear of Magnetic Hall Effect switches. This has been reserved for the Pro version. As such, you may wish to consider that if that is a deal breaker.

This wired-only option removes the requirement of a battery or charging. However, it does reduce versatility and may drive wire freaks a little insane. Yet, this has never bothered me, and I prefer not running out of juice mid-game or work session. Alongside the interesting design choice is a dedicated media knob. This keeps things streamlined and keeps you focusing on gaming, TV shows, or your favourite song.

What’s in the box of the Vulcan II TKL keyboard?

The packaging is durable, attractive, and interesting to look at. Additionally, it can be recycled.
The Vulcan II TKL keyboard has a detachable USB cable. Moreover, it has a soft typing experience, low low-keycap profile, and the ability to adjust the underside stands.
A braided USB-C cable is provided.
Use the keycap puller to remove the keys.
Spare switches are supplied.
Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The Vulcan II TKL keyboard is a mechanical keyboard that uses Titan HS mechanical pre-lubed switches. These smooth and comfortable switches work particularly well with the unusual profiled keycaps. Moreover, they look great when the RGB is in full flow. If you don’t like this option, you can hot swap them with any compatible alternative. In theory, this should be a walk in the park, but I found the to be a little tricky when compared with other major keyboard brands.

These switches offer a softer typing experience and a 1.8mm actuation distance. The result is reduced fatigue and accurate keystrokes. This makes this an ideal device for gamers and office workers. Furthermore, the quiet switches are superb if you need to work without disturbing your colleagues.

The dedicated media knob is ideal if you love to watch films, YouTube, or listen to music. This tool has push functionality to increase usability. Additionally, the option to adjust your audio and pause what you’re doing without playing with the settings was fantastic.

Build quality.

The Vulcan II TKL keyboard has an industrial look that stands out from its peers. Although I mentioned a lack of originality, I like the exposed switches and the amazing RGB. This design is complemented by the slim keycaps. These can be swapped to something more generic, but you’ll lose that RGB vibe. The keycaps were comfortable to use, and I like the low-profile typing. I tested a cherry profile keycap, and both felt great to use. However, I like the original aesthetic and will stick to this for now.

The case has a solid black finish and a slim-line design. Furthermore, this TKL option is great for small workstations. Due to the wired-only approach, this keyboard feels lighter than its competitors. However, even though it is light, it doesn’t slide or move on your desk or workstation.

If you like large numbers to reassure you of build quality, you’ll be impressed by the 50 million keystroke guarantee. You’d have to work and play incredibly hard to get anywhere near this number. Consequently, this keyboard will outlive many of us. Creating the right audio profile is essential. The Vulcan II TKL keyboard has a nice, classic mechanical sound without being obnoxious. A layer of sound-dampening material is housed within the case to generate a pleasant typing soundscape.

Is the Vulcan II TKL keyboard worth it?

This keyboard will appeal to a niche but passionate audience. Its exposed design, vibrant RGB, smooth switches, and quieter mechanical typing are big positives. Yes, I struggled with hot-swapping the switches, but that may have been user error. Additionally, the chance to use other keycaps was a good idea, but it also undermines one of the key design choices.

I like the wired-only approach and the clean black finish. Moreover, the inclusion of a media knob for convenience was a great idea. Subsequently, if you have used a ROCCAT keyboard or the previous Vulcan models, you will love this one, and I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on Turtle Beach can be found here!)}

The Vulcan II TKL keyboard from Turtle Beach has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

A Closer Look at Tension The Top 10 Naming Game

Andrew Edney

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Dec 6, 2025

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With Christmas only a few weeks away, we take a closer look at Tension The Top 10 Naming Game.

Your team is given a category, maybe it’s types of dog… there are hundreds but you have 60 seconds to name the exact 10 showing on the card.

Points score prizes so get as many as you can and be first around the board to win.

Tension comes with a unique score slider which makes crossing off the right shout-outs easy.
Get ready to play… can you handle the Tension?

Tension The Top 10 Naming Game is available now priced around £29.96, although it was on sale for £12.96 at the time of writing.

You can learn more and order from here.

A Closer Look at Spot The Intro Game

Andrew Edney

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Dec 6, 2025

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With Christmas only a few weeks away, we take a closer look at Spot The Intro Game.

Rock and pop trivia and music-recognition board game.

This music game is a race to name famous songs and the artist against the clock.

Featuring hot hits from the last 6 decades, the mystery songs are uploaded straight from the game cards into your smartphone.

There are 960 classic tracks for every generation to try and identify, with teams competing around the game board in a battle to be top of the charts.

Working alongside your favourite music streaming service, every song comes with a bonus question to add an extra element of fun and competition.

Grab your phone, grab your friends, it’s time to get the party started

Are you a genius at Pop and Rock Trivia? Can you recognise a song from the first few bars of the Intro?

The greatest musical recognition game, Spot The Intro is the crazily addictive audio quiz game in which teams compete to recognise songs from just 10 second clips!

It’s a memory jogging mix of fun and nostalgia for anyone with a passion for music.

Suitable for two or more players ages 14 and up.

Spot The Intro Game is available now priced around £25 and you can order it from here.

Review: DAVE THE DIVER

Daniel Waite

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Dec 6, 2025

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DAVE THE DIVER is a game with a cult status. A successful launch on Steam makes it impossible to ignore. Thanks to its pixelated finish, tongue-in-cheek plot, and silly moments, this isn’t a title to avoid. However, if you ignore this, you’ll miss out on a not-so-hidden gem of a game. This exceptional indie title had me hooked immediately. Thanks to its addictive gameplay, funny characters, and multi-layered approach, I couldn’t put it down.

Developed and published by MINTROCKET, this is an adventure RPG. Moreover, there is a restaurant to run, plenty of quests to complete, and lots of secrets to discover. As such, this is one game that is jam-packed with content as the surprises keep coming. Whether you are diving in the deep or helping out your land-loving friends, there is always something to do.

DAVE THE DIVER enjoys the shallow water. — Your opening dives are incredibly peaceful.

DAVE THE DIVER tells a silly and unbelievable story.

DAVE THE DIVER has an absurd but magical story. As such, you must take every moment with a pinch of salt. Yet, it’s the remarkably OTT nature of the gameplay that gets under your skin. Whether it is the social media-obsessed youngsters, the scientist who wishes to discover a lost society or the egomaniac who pretends to be an environmentalist, they must all be treated with kid gloves. Accordingly, you’ll interact with colourful characters as you try to complete every task at hand.

You are Dave, a fun-loving diver who doesn’t match the normal description. This overweight individual isn’t charming, nor does he fill you with confidence. Instead, this down-to-earth individual loves to help people while spending his time in the ocean. What’s more, he is happy to help the local sushi restaurant thrive. As such, he spends most of his time fishing in the “Blue Hole” and searching for special ingredients.

Get your wetsuit and dive right in.

I loved how direct DAVE THE DIVER was. Within moments, you are chucked in at the deep end. Subsequently, you begin the game with limited resources and even more limited equipment. However, pretty soon, you can afford to upgrade your gear as you plan to dive further into the abyss. Alongside this, the more you progress, the tougher each mission becomes. Whether you are asked to gather specific ingredients or explore certain locations, you must be prepared, or be prepared to die.

The action focuses on a few key elements. When you are out and about, you have limited opportunities within the water. At first, you may only spend the morning and afternoon diving. Yet, this expands to nighttime endeavours where the risks increase vastly. During each expedition, you must hunt for fish, pick up resources, and find special ingredients. Your backpack can only take a limited weight, and every movement uses valuable oxygen. What’s more, every hit from a predatory creature depletes your O₂ further still.

Alongside this, you can only dive to a certain depth, and you must improve your wetsuit to go further. Then you must also consider further technology, the deeper you go. Additionally, there are bigger and more aggressive predators lurking in the dark. As such, you’ll need to improve your weapons and your harpoon if you are to survive.

A full restaurant full of impatient punters. — The restaurant is full. Can you keep everyone happy?

Life on land is equally hectic.

Once your time in the water is up, you must head to the restaurant to help out. This short but hectic element is a phenomenal breakaway from the ocean. Here, you must decide what to serve, who to hire, and which dish to improve. However, not every dish is available and, depending on what you have caught, you may impress your clientele or disappoint them.

By choosing the right menu, you’ll increase your profit margin and use any fish you have in stock. Consequently, any money you make can be reinvested in the restaurant or your diving gear. Therefore, it is essential to have a thriving business if you wish to explore the depths of the “Blue Hole”.

Most of your customers are faceless individuals who want a nice meal. Yet, occasionally, you must impress an old foe or a famous chef. When this happens, you must catch the finest ingredients from the ocean to appease their strange tastes. This is easier said than done. Moreover, if you miss the window of opportunity, your social media status can be badly impacted. Therefore, you must balance your everyday customers with the VIPs.

The chef is working on a new dish. — Let the chef get to work.

Perfectly balanced gameplay.

Where DAVE THE DIVER excels is its fantastically balanced gameplay. The constant dripping of new elements and mechanics was fantastic. Accordingly, you never had the chance to be bored. What’s more, the world expands at an alarming rate. Thanks to the development of new weapons and the vast rewards for completing side quests, you were always able to keep up.

Alongside this, you were under little pressure to progress the story. Therefore, you can focus on appeasing the VIPs and building up your stock of fish if you so wish. Alternatively, if you are feeling brave, you can enjoy the evolving story, even if your gear is barely up to the task. Either way, the action is just as enjoyable, and you are free to put the brakes on whenever you choose.

DAVE THE DIVER is a pixelated dream.

Pixelated games are two a penny. However, occasionally, you come across one that makes you smile from ear to ear. DAVE THE DIVER is one of these games! Thanks to its colourful world, amazing cutscenes, and interesting characters, it is wonderful to look at. On top of this, the varied regions and incredible creatures prevent this from becoming tiresome. Furthermore, some wonderful secrets keep you on the edge of your seat. Subsequently, this is a pixelated dream that has depth while looking amazing at the same time.

The soundscape complements the beauty and madness of this incredible game. DAVE THE DIVER has a fantastic soundtrack that adds drama and danger to every dive. Moreover, I loved the flamboyant cinematic and the basic noises that replicate each layer of dialogue. Alongside this, the sound effects were great, and it was hard not to crack a smile.

DAVE THE DIVER avoids the jellyfish as he searches the depths. — Avoid the jellyfish and search the depths.

A Steam Deck classic.

Whether you are playing on Xbox, PC or Steam Deck, it mattered not. The control system was flawless thanks to its amazing layout, straightforward tutorial, and responsive inputs. Within moments, you’ll know the basic controls, and you’ll be enjoying the deep blue sea. However, the game evolves nicely as you learn new skills and upgrade your equipment. Alongside this, the restaurant layer will test your patience and your ability to think methodically.

I spent hours on end playing this title. The addictive action and laid-back approach ensure that it is tough to put down but never overbearing. What’s more, the game has so much content that you never know what’s on the horizon. Additionally, there are so many creatures to hunt and a vast arsenal of equipment to upgrade and buy. Subsequently, you can try different methods to catch any fish or shark that takes your fancy.

DAVE THE DIVER is a gem of an indie title.

From the opening gambit, I knew this would be a special game. Yet, it was the sheer layers of complexity and the never-ending content that took me by surprise. Furthermore, the story is a wonderful blend of parody and tongue-in-cheek humour. As such, this will make you chuckle even though every mission can be demanding of your time and attention. If you want a brilliantly casual title that is amusing and addictive, then look no further. Accordingly, I adored DAVE THE DIVER, and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you solve the mysteries hidden in the Blue Hole? Upgrade your equipment, dive deeper, and catch as many fish as you can carry.

A Closer Look at the Jack Skellington In Santa Suit Controller Holder & Phone Stand from Cable Guys

Andrew Edney

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Dec 6, 2025

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With Christmas only a few weeks away, we take a closer look at the Jack Skellington In Santa Suit Controller Holder & Phone Stand from Cable Guys.

What’s this?! It’s the Jack Skellington Cable Guy, now dressed in his newly tailored Santa suit. This iconic figure from Disney’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is dressed in his jolly Santa Suit, and ready to hold your phone or controller with festive cheer. Dressed in red but as cheeky as always, you can sit back, relax, and let Jack take care of your devices while you immerse yourself in your favourite games or sit back and rewatch the movie!

• Jack Skellington phone, remote control, and gaming controller stand/holder
• Compatible with most types of smartphones and console controllers, including the next-gen PlayStation 5 DualSense, Xbox Series S/X, and all iPhones
• The perfect companion for any Nightmare Before Christmas
• Officially licensed by Disney, styled on Jack Skellington
• Approx 8.5″ tall

The Jack Skellington In Santa Suit Controller Holder & Phone Stand is available now priced around £29.99.

You can learn from the EGXPro website.

Review: Instant Print Camera 2.0

Daniel Waite

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Dec 5, 2025

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If your kids have an eye for photography, but you don’t know if they’ll stick to the hobby, you don’t want to invest heavily in new gear. This is where the Instant Print Camera 2.0 comes to the fore. This fun, colourful, and easy-to-use device allows children the chance to brush up on their skills without breaking their bank account. Moreover, it has onboard editing, vibrant colour printing, and many other key features.

Although this isn’t a professional-level device, it is focused towards high-energy photography and fun with friends. Additionally, it is rewarding as you get instant gratification with high-quality printouts. Think of the fun of Polaroids with a much cleaner image. Alongside this, the 3″ touchscreen allows users to edit their photos with stickers and other ludicrous layers. The result is a device that lets kids be kids.

What’s in the box of the Instant Print Camera 2.0?

The packaging is ridiculously colourful. Furthermore, it is durable and recyclable.
The Instant Print Camera 2.0 from Photo Creator has a chunky but comfortable and sleek finish. The 3″ screen is responsive and easy to use, and the device has a nice teal finish.
A 4 GB microSD card is provided.
100 photo sheets can be used for your instant prints.
Stickers and colour markers let you customise your photos.
Connect the device with the USB cable.
1x AAA battery included to power the camera.
Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

If you are stepping into the real world of photography, you’ll want a reasonable resolution lens to tackle the job. The Instant Print Camera 2.0 is a 32MP digital camera with a maximum aperture of 2.8f. This delivers reasonable photos that are good for younger users. Additionally, you can capture video footage to transfer to your laptop, PC, or phone. This adds another layer of versatility to a fun-focused device.

The instant print element is where this camera shines. You are provided with 4 unique colour paper bundles to print your favourite photos. Each different colour option adds a different finish to your selfies or landscape art. Consequently, you can be as creative as you wish with this device.

If you love selfies, this camera has a selfie lens as well as an LED light ring for the perfect lighting. The result is ideal selfie conditions for youngsters to post their photos to their friends. The touchscreen makes this Photo Creator product stand out from its peers. Not only is it easy to use, but it makes editing your snaps a walk in the park. As such, this is a particularly user-friendly option.

Build quality.

The colourful and hardened plastic case is eye-catching and a joy to handle. Furthermore, the tactile buttons are clean, well-positioned, and easy to use. As such, this is ideal if you are a little clumsy or inexperienced with a digital camera.

The touchscreen occupies the entire rear aspect of the Instant Print Camera 2.0. Although this could be inconvenient, I never had an issue when holding and using the device. Luckily, the case is large enough that your hands can securely hold the camera without brushing the touchscreen.

Finally, each of the ports is nicely positioned, and the microSD port is easy to access. Therefore, you won’t have to help your children whenever they want to connect the camera, replace the battery, or remove their memory card.

Is the Instant Print Camera 2.0 worth it?

This camera is a brilliant option if you’re looking for something durable, easy to use, and fun. The Instant Print Camera 2.0 delivers a retro option with a modern edge. Furthermore, the versatility of storing photos and videos on the provided 4 GB microSD is a great option. Accordingly, I think this is a great Christmas idea, and I recommend buying it here!

The Instant Print Camera 2.0 has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Mini Cam

Daniel Waite

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Dec 5, 2025

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If your kids see themselves as a bit of a spy, the Mini Cam from Photo Creator should be on their Christmas list. This tiny and fun device is perfect for sneaky photos and laughing with your friends. Moreover, it is colourful (6 colour choices available), simple to use, and ideal for kids aged 8+. My youngest used it, and she is 7, but she has used many of the Photo Creator products. Accordingly, if your child is not used to a camera, this might be a bit of a test for them.

This tiny but impressive device lets users take photos and videos. Moreover, it has a microphone, flash, and a 1 GB micro SD card. This may seem small, but this is a fun and accessible device that isn’t designed for professional-grade events. Consequently, 1 GB of storage is more than enough. If your kids are like mine, they love to attach things to their coats or school bags. This camera has a keychain connection to prevent it from becoming lost. Therefore, that should prevent unnecessary heartbreak.

What’s in the box of the Mini Cam?

The packaging is vibrant and fun to look at. Moreover, it can be recycled.
The Mini Cam is tiny! However, it has a 1″ screen for users to view their work. Moreover, the charging port and micro SD slot are well-positioned.
A USB-C cable charges the camera.
Prevent the camera from becoming lost with the keychain.
Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

I’ve already alluded to the fun and non-professional aspect of this inexpensive device. Accordingly, you are not going to get high-resolution pictures or high-quality video footage. Instead, the Mini Cam delivers around 1 MP effective still resolution with an F2.8 aperture and a maximum 1/2000 shutter speed. This delivers reasonable results for its intended audience. My youngest enjoyed sneaking photos and capturing videos of her sisters and the family dog. Consequently, the camera does exactly what it should.

The rechargeable battery is good for the size of the device. We were able to use this for hours without worrying about a lack of power. Moreover, it charges at a good rate. Therefore, you are rarely without juice. Removing the memory card to download your footage was a simple task. Additionally, the provided memory card has high enough read and write speeds to cope with anything this camera can throw at it. Subsequently, if you invest, your child will not worry about technical issues or memory card failures.

Build quality.

The Mini Cam is nicely built. Although it has a full plastic shell, it is nice to hold. Additionally, the tactile buttons have a good and clean actuation and travel distance. Therefore, children will know when their photos are being taken. Alongside this, the display screen is clear and easy enough to use. Yes, it is a little small, but so is the camera body. Consequently, it is as big as the manufacturer could produce.

Sadly, this device is not water-resistant. Accordingly, you cannot take this for rainy walks, swimming, or puddle jumping. This may be a bit restrictive, but I didn’t expect an under £15 device to have all of the bells and whistles. Finally, the lens is basic but effective. It’ll take some knocks, but being too heavy-handed will have long-lasting and negative effects.

Is the Mini Cam worth it?

If you want a stocking filler this Christmas or your kids want a fun camera to capture silly pictures and videos of their friends, the Mini Cam is a great option. It won’t break the bank, and there is a colour for everyone. Moreover, the included micro SD card ensures that this device is ready to go. Accordingly, I think it’s great value for money, and you should get yours here!

The Mini Cam has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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