Here is our review of the Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox.
Experience fighting games like never before with an arcade stick that has been designed with professional eSports players. Built from premium-quality materials and fully customizable, the Daija Arcade Stick offers unrivalled professional performance.
The Daija Arcade Stick was designed in collaboration with Kayane, a leading pro eSports player who became a world record holder for the number of podium placements in fighting game tournaments when she was only 20 years old.
Every detail has been considered in the design of this officially licensed Xbox stick, which offers eSports performance. With the intelligent placement of the buttons made by a leading brand among professional players, and intuitive software for quickly and easily customizing the buttons, the Daija Arcade Stick provides quality, stability and incredible precision.
A textured palm rest, two different sticks, and a button lock feature to prevent accidental presses ensure an incredibly comfortable user experience that elevates you to the next level.
What’s in the box?
The box contains the arcade stick, a 3m detachable USB-A to USB-C cable, two stick heads, and two tools to quickly and easily customise your arcade stick.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The Daija Arcade Stick looks really good and handles really well – you can use it on a surface or on your lap, whatever works for you.
The stick comes with two different joystick heads and all the tools you need to swap them out. Basically, figure out which is the best one for you and use the tools to very simply change it – it really was that simple. All the tools and the other head, along with the cable for the stick are nicely hidden away on the inside of the stick – just press the two side buttons and lift – easy!
The box also contains a blank customisable sheet that you can place on the top of the stick if you want to create your own!
The stick works with either an Xbox or a PC – there is a small switch on the side that selects which you are using, then once you have done that, just plug it in using the cable and that’s pretty much it! If you are using it with a PC, the first time you connect it you may be asked to install a driver.
There is a mode selector switch that enables you to configure the use of the stick depending on what games you are playing.
Talking of configuration, all the buttons are completely configurable for whatever you need and whatever you are playing. Just download the NACON Daija Arcade Stick software onto your PC or Mac and start making changes.
There is even a 3.5mm jack on the stick for you to plug in your headset if you want to.
The stick is very responsive and easy to use – even for extended periods of time. I certainly found it easier playing certain games with this stick than I did using a normal Xbox controller.
If you are in the market for a high quality, configurable stick then you really do need to take a look at this one.
The Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox is available now priced around €279.90.
Many moons ago, at the dawn of gaming, kids filled arcades on every corner of the globe. Some of them also went home to an Atari Jaguar, Atari 2600, etc. To get lost in these magical pixelated landscapes. If you were once one of these kids, and you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia, then Atari has you covered with the launch of Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration is a massive collection of classic Atari games available on all platforms. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who grew up with these games or a disgruntled gamer who is tired of micro-transactions looking to relive the good old days. This game has a little of everything for you, and there’s over 100 games to play.
This is something I appreciate developer Digital Eclipse for, as you can tell they cared about preserving the legacy of Atari, both good and bad. Atari’s story is one of great triumphs, but also one of great disasters. Their story is a lesson for corporations, publishers, and developers to learn from, and preserving it is a necessity.
For All 8-Bit Gamers
In Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration, developer Digital Eclipse went to great lengths to make a faithful collection of Atari’s past. Most notably, when you boot up the game, you’ll see menu options guiding you through each era of Atari’s history. From their rise in arcades, the birth of the console, and even the E.T Video game disaster.
Whichever era you explore, you’ll be presented with a timeline. This timeline is loaded with interviews from current game developers who were inspired by Atari, to Atari developers themselves.
There are detailed information pop-ups that help you learn about such things like the first arcade machine or the infamous pong. My personal favorite is old Atari commercials from the 70s and 80’s showcasing their products.
Closing
Digital Eclipse did a stellar job paying homage to Atari’s rise and fall. If you’re a classic gamer/Atari fan you’ll have a blast. Outside of that demographic, I worry the $50 price point is a little steep. Having not grown up in the 80’s arcades, I rarely had a good time with most of the games. I never went into this review with a mindset that I would, nor did it cloud my judgement.
Playing this game, I appreciated it for what it was. I love researching gaming, as a lover of the art form. Collections like this are important. For anyone wanting to learn about a pivotal era in gaming, check out Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration.
Many gaming peripherals pride themselves on being designed for elite gamers. Consequently, ordinary people may feel alienated and may be out of their depth. With many complex features, fantastic build quality, and obscene RGB lighting, these accessories blow your mind. As such, when The Shrimp Model 1 was announced, I took note. This simple stripped-back gaming kit is designed with casual gaming in mind. Furthermore, it comprises 25 buttons, some simple but effective controls, and that is all.
Accordingly, this minute device is a little unusual. What’s more, the oversized buttons and delightful wrist support make it stand out. Therefore, it wouldn’t look out of place if you have a quirky setup, or you like to stream. What’s also great, is the fantastic build quality. The hardened plastic is reassuringly tough, and the keys look robust. Moreover, the old-school aesthetics are pleasing, and the comic book imagery on the wrist support adds some nerdy vibes.
What’s in the box of The Shrimp Model 1?
The packaging is phenomenal. From the off, this device screams look at me! With a colourful outer sleeve and a sleek and stylish main box, it delivers a high-quality aesthetic. Alongside this, it is adorned with key selling points, and it’s fully recyclable.
The Shrimp Model 1 is absolutely nuts. This compact beast is approximately 75-80% smaller than a standard keyboard. Furthermore, it has controls for the RGB lights and audio settings. Disappointingly, there are no adjustable feet, so the keyboard lays flat permanently. However, I liked the retro aesthetic and the RGB effects are fantastic.
Comic book wrist support. This magnetic wrist support looks great. It enhances the old-school appeal and will get your nerdy juices flowing. Moreover, it makes the keyboard comfortable to use during extended gaming sessions.
A USB-C braided cable. This lengthy cable is well-built and looks great.
Keycap puller. Remove the keys with ease thanks to this basic tool.
Carry bag. Ensure that your keyboard stays safe in this branded velvet bag.
A simple user guide. Study the fundamentals to get the most out of this keyboard.
Technical aspects.
Ultracompact mechanical gaming keyboard
25-key GLOBAL layout with super stunning “oversized” lettering
Gateron™ G Pro mechanical switches
Cherry™ profile (heights & shaping) keycaps
RGB illumination with a bunch of cool effects
Padded and textured magnetic wrist rest
Cool gadgety knobs
Multimedia controls
Fn-layer (dual function keys)
USB-C connector
Compatibility: Desktop PC and gaming laptops, PS4/PS5 (standard HID compliant USB device)
I know what you are thinking. You are questioning whether this keyboard is worthwhile. After all, what’s the use of a keyboard if you can’t use it to type? Well, you would be right, and in any other circumstance, I’d totally agree. However, this incredible device works perfectly for the job it is designed for. That job is to be a simple and straightforward gaming peripheral.
As such, the oversized buttons were a great design choice. What’s more, the use of Gateron™ G Pro switches to dampen that traditional mechanical sound was a wise design. Moreover, the Cherry profile for the keycaps ensures that the lower position is more responsive and feels more comfortable. Keeping with the button elements, the inclusion of dual-aspect functionality was a stroke of genius. Subsequently, the manufacturers have been able to incorporate many essential keys without jeopardising their design aspirations.
For example, the FN and ESC buttons mirror the enter key. While FN and 1 through 5 represent F1 to F5. This was a sensible approach, as many gamers require a vast choice of keys for their in-depth gaming experiences. Accordingly, they can’t complain about usability or functionality. On top of this, The Shrimp Model 1 incorporates media shortcuts at the touch of a button. You can adjust the audio levels, mute sound, or skip and pause tracks at will. This was great as you are in total control without having to alter your settings or play around with your PC.
Usability.
Technically, The Shrimp Model 1 is phenomenal. It is responsive, easy to use, looks great, and is built to last. But, what about its usability? How does this tiny keyboard compare to other market-leading devices? I’ve been able to look at the ROCCAT Vulcan II Max, the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini, and the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL. As such, I have a good understanding of the keyboard market. Accordingly, this device is a little restrictive compared to its peers. Without the full range of keys, it takes some getting used to. However, once you accept its limitations, you experience a phenomenal device.
When you team this up with a mappable gaming mouse, such as the ROCCAT Kone XP Air, you get a winning combination. No longer do you need to worry about keyboard inputs as your mouse takes the load. Instead, you can enjoy the simplicity and the minimal nature of this accessory. Moreover, you can sit back and enjoy the insane light show from the RGB setup.
Is The Shrimp Model 1 worth it?
This is one hell of a niche product. However, those who buy it will absolutely love everything about it. From its quirky and dated style to its incredibly easy and functional usability, this is a top-notch accessory. Yes, it takes some getting used to, and it won’t be suitable for every occasion, but this matters not. Why? Well, most gamers already have a great keyboard, and The Shrimp Model 1 will simply be an awesome addition to your setup.
On top of this, its build quality is phenomenal, and its RGB lighting is enhanced thanks to the larger buttons. Furthermore, the excellent and striking magnetic wrist support ensures that it’s comfortable to use for extended gaming sessions. I understand that hardcore gamers may overlook this, but Nordic Game Supply has something up its sleeves to counteract this. As such, keep an eye on their website for some exciting product news. On the whole, The Shrimp Model 1 more than exceeded my expectations. Subsequently, I am happy to recommend that you buy it here!
(More information on Nordic Game Supply can be found here!)
Old-school gaming is known to either be too difficult or too easy. It seemed that the developers could never find a happy medium, and this frustrated many gamers. As such, fans of hardcore experiences bemoaned the simple games, and those who wanted a casual experience often got caught out. Consequently, modern developers have to try to find the middle ground. Sadly, though, this is often not the case, and the same problems occur. Panda Punch is one such game that disappointingly falls into this trap.
Developed by Ninja Rabbit Studios and published by Ratalaika Games, this is a retro platform title. What’s more, it has some minor combat moments and a few simple puzzles to complete. Accordingly, my aforementioned comments about simplicity have sadly come to fruition. Therefore, after a couple of levels, Panda Punch, unfortunately, plateaus badly.
Panda Punch tells a pointless tale.
You control a red panda who unfortunately becomes injured. An alien invasion causes mayhem, and the hero loses his paw. However, luckily, his dad has some spare parts lying around and he somehow builds him a mechanical paw. This new tool is used to annihilate enemy robots, punch switches, and move boxes. Later in the game, the hero learns new abilities that help him overcome chasms and other obstacles. Yet, this isn’t as exciting as it sounds, as much of the gameplay loop is repetitive.
Though Panda Punch sticks to many of the much-loved tropes of old-school gaming, its lack of depth and bare stages leaves you wanting. Furthermore, the underwhelming enemies and lacklustre abilities are tedious. On top of this, the simple puzzles and generous checkpoints ensure there is little challenge and even less risk. Subsequently, you go through the motions as you complete each obnoxiously mundane stage.
Where it all begins.
Collectables and hidden areas.
The developers have tried their hardest to mix things up. Honestly, they succeeded in some cases but missed the mark in many more. Where this title excels is when you try to find the special coins. These powerful tokens are hidden in plain sight and require a mixture of abilities to find them. As such, you can’t locate them all until you’ve progressed through the game. What’s more, these collectables are used alongside the cards to upgrade your gear. Therefore, finding each one is essential as well as being a fun challenge to overcome.
Disappointingly, the game is pretty flat and lacklustre other than this mechanic. Even though there is a small smattering of bosses and a tiny roster of monsters to defeat, none of them poses a challenge. Therefore, you sigh when you encounter them as you drudge up the rinse-and-repeat combat action.
Drop, roll, and jump.
Panda Punch is wonderfully pixelated.
The gameplay made me roll my eyes with frustration. However, visually I adored Panda Punch. The basic pixelated graphics and vivid colours create that wonderful retro finish. Moreover, there was a nice variation in stage design between each of the worlds. Annoyingly, though, it took forever to progress to the following world, and this made for a dull experience.
Ninja Rabbit Studios needed to introduce each new world much sooner. Had this happened, it would have alleviated many of the issues, while improving the finished product to no end.
The repetitive nature of this title is captured in its audio. The same song plays over and over and that isn’t acceptable. This is then made worse by the basic sound effects. Disappointingly, the music and sound lack energy, and this reduces its appeal further still.
Can you take down every boss?
Simple controls.
A basic game needs easy controls. Luckily, Panda Punch delivers on this score. Subsequently, you can pick this up in no time, and you’ll understand the fundamentals immediately. However, as new abilities are introduced, the control setup becomes more complex. Fortunately, though, it doesn’t test you at any point.
Though I found the gameplay to be tedious, there is some replay value and longevity. Thanks to each hidden area, and the special coins you must locate, you’ll need a good eye for detail. Other than this, it is a good game for completionists, as the achievement list is small and straightforward.
Panda Punch is underwhelming.
Panda Punch didn’t fill me with much confidence, and unfortunately, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Thereupon, much of the action is underwhelming, repetitive, and disappointing. Yes, the collectables and the additional abilities spiced things up, but it was too little, too late. Consequently, I don’t recommend this game. However, more information can be found here! Can you repel the alien invasion and get revenge for your damaged hand? Jump, punch, and defeat every alien you encounter.
The adage “you get nothing in life for free” is normally correct. However, Expansive Worlds, the team behind Call of the Wild: The Angler, beg to differ. This fun-loving and carefree team has decided to treat its fanbase this Christmas. Thanks to the success of their game, they have launched a new DLC completely free of charge. However, there is a caveat, and that is that you own the main title, and you download it before the 5th of January 2023. If you don’t fulfil this criterion, well, you’ll miss out and you’ll have to part with your hard-earned cash.
I reviewed the main title in October, scoring it 7.5 out of 10. I commented on its massive world, atmospheric audio, and its range of tasks on offer. As such, when the developers release another massive chunk of content to explore, I was surprised. Their latest update focuses on the Trollsporet Nature Reserve in an environment steeped in Norwegian Folklore.
What’s included in the Call of the Wild: The Angler DLC?
Available on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, andMicrosoft Store. The Norway Reserve includes a whole new map to discover across three varied biomes. Moreover, there are new activities and missions to complete and 13 new fish species to battle. Alongside this, the release, of a free update titled ‘Legends’ brings Legendary Fish, emotes, and many more improvements for players to enjoy.
Key Features:
Get it for free until January 5th, 2023. If you own the base game or purchase it between December 15th, 2022, and January 5th, 2023, you can get the Norway Reserve for free. If you haven’t jumped in yet, now is a perfect time!
A land of myths, giants and natural beauty. It is based on the rugged wilderness of Norway’s unspoilt nature. The Norway Reserve offers Anglers a chance to explore the beaten path among majestic mountains, bask in the midnight sun and marvel at the Northern Lights.
New fish species.This idyllic Scandinavian backdrop might not promise you an encounter with the Midgard Serpent. However, it does offer 13 new fish species to try your skills against. You’ll encounter, the Brown Trout, Zander, and Atlantic Salmon. Therefore, you are in the right place for a great catch.
Fishing and beyond.Are you angling for more diverse activities? The Norway Reserve offers a wide selection of new activities and missions, featuring fishing challenges, geocaching missions, scavenger hunts, and a unique narrative mission as well as collectables scattered across the varied biomes of Nøkkensjøen, Huldraskogen, and Fossegrimfjorden.
What does the team have to say?
“In the months since launch, we’ve released two major game updates as well as several patches, which have brought hundreds of game improvements and new features. Once again, we couldn’t have done it without the feedback we’ve received from our players. We are privileged to have one of the most supportive player communities around, and we are committed to continuing to improve Call of the Wild: The Angler by adding new content as well as expanding and improving on everything added so far.
Additionally, the team has worked tirelessly on the latest game update we’re calling ‘Legends’, which was rolled out alongside the Norway Reserve. This update offers the all-new Legendary Fish, more communication options through emotes, and many more improvements”, said Paul Rustchynsky, Game Director at Expansive Worlds.
On the release of the Norway Reserve, he added, “This new reserve not only adds a vast new region to explore but also 13 new fish species and a range of new missions, offering Anglers the chance to learn new skills and add new gear and tools to their collection. And as a token of our thanks to players for their continued support, we’re making the Norway Reserve available to get for free until January 5, 2023!”
(If this takes your fancy, more information on the game can be found here!)
Tis the season to transport yourself to other worlds, engage in sci-fi sports, work off that Turkey and explore the world all from the comfort of your living room. Especially if you’re in the UK because with all the transport strikes, real transport isn’t easy!
Whether it’s a gift to yourself, from a loved one, or even from Santa himself, the PICO 4 is a fantastic option that won’t disappoint. And this holiday season, there is an excellent PICO 4 Holiday 2022 Deal that you simply cannot miss!
When does the deal run?
Starting on Friday, 9 December, until 10 January 2023, anyone who purchases, receives, and activates their PICO 4 will be treated to a fantastic bundle of top games free of charge!
What’s included?
The games included are:
Les Mills Body Combat
After The Fall
Ruins Magus
All-in-one Sports
Walkabout Minigolf
Shores of Loci
(Stay tuned for reviews of all these coming soon!)
Final thoughts on the PICO 4 Holiday 2022 Deal
This is an excellent selection of games covering family titles, hardcore titles and fitness at a saving of over $110. Check major outlets or the PICO website for this incredible holiday 2022 deal.
I can’t stress enough just how good this headset is; check out my full review on the PICO 4 if you’re on the fence.
If you’re a fan of the Man of Steel like I am and you’ve been eagerly awaiting news on his return to the big screen, then wait no more because we finally have confirmation. A new Superman movie is officially in development!
The Hierarchy of Power
James Gunn and Peter Safran MATT WINKELMEYER/GETTY IMAGES; JON KOPALOFF/GETTY IMAGES
In October, James Gunn and Peter Safran were appointed Co-head and Co-CEO of DC Films. Ever-since then, fans have been clinging to Twitter in hopes of learning anything and everything about the duo’s plans for the DCU, and we just got our biggest piece of news yet.
Recently, Gunn told fans on Twitter who worried about the absence of Superman that “…Superman is a huge priority, if not the biggest priority”. This put fans’ fears that Gunn wouldn’t focus on big-name heroes for DC films and opt for lesser known ones to rest.
Now, Gunn has confirmed that the DC Film slate he and Peter Safran have been planning out is now set in stone and that there is indeed a new Superman movie in development, which Gunn is writing.
The film will focus on Clark Kent in his younger years as a reporter at the Daily Planet, which sadly for many fans means Henry Cavill will not be reprising his role as Superman. This comes as a shock to many as it was previously announced in October that he would.
There’s a lot to unpack here, so let’s dissect all the news below.
Superman Rises
Brad Anderson, Andy Kubert
Although there’s so much to unravel and we still are unclear on what Gunn and Safran’s overall plans are, it would appear the DC Film universe is getting a total reboot. At the heart of this reboot, it seems DC is finally realizing they have more than Batman and for once are emphasizing Superman.
For me, the idea of a movie focusing on a younger Clark Kent, being a reporter, and falling in love with Lois Lane, all while learning the great responsibility he has to be the world’s hero, just makes me giddy inside. Superman is my favorite hero, he is the symbol for which all heroes in fiction aspire to be, and if done right, Superman could redefine all of superhero cinema.
I’ve seen some fans online worry about Gunn writing the script for the film, which is fair, but I wouldn’t stress over it. Gunn’s style may not necessarily fit Superman, but Gunn is an insanely talented writer, and he arguably understands comics better than any director out there.
James Gunn knows the importance of Superman, you can’t build a DC universe without him, and I have the up-most faith that he’ll deliver a stellar script.
But… What about Henry?
It’s not an unpopular opinion to say that Henry Cavill is a phenomenal actor. There’s also nobody else on the planet that has the Superman look more than him. For all of the problems with Man of Steel and the ‘Snyderverse’, Cavill was a tremendous Superman but unfortunately, he wasn’t given an adequate chance to follow up his only standalone Superman film.
I hate that we never got to see Henry stop Brainiac from harvesting all knowledge, or going toe to toe with Metallo, a worthy Lex Luthor, Bizarro… the list goes on. No matter how you spin it, Henry’s tenure as Superman will always come down to two words, “Missed Opportunity.”
It stings, even more, considering shortly after the release of Black Adam in theaters, Henry was given the go-ahead to announce his return. Any hate that fans are sending to James Gunn over this is unjustified. Keep in mind, Gunn had nothing to do with Black Adam or getting Henry back. James Gunn and Peter Safran are trying to develop a cohesive universe, and DC Films are long overdue for a reboot.
Time for a Reset
Many fans were unhappy with Batman Vs Superman and The Justice League 2017 film. There was a great divide in the fan base between people who liked what Zack Snyder was building and people who thought he had no idea what he was doing. The original DCEU was just a rushed attempt at hopping on the MCU hype train without any real thought.
Listen, rebooting is never easy. It’s a process that requires a lot of thought and long-term planning. When you have fans who like the old stuff plus the people who played the roles, scrapping it all and starting over is going to make many unhappy. If a reboot is really what’s happening (it probably is) then I applaud James and Peter for ripping the band-aid off now.
After all, they are planning out the next ten years of film and television, and it’s their job on the line if it doesn’t succeed. I’m excited about the idea of ‘new’ in a film universe that was beginning to grow stale, so James and Peter have my unwavering support.
Closing
We have no idea when to expect this new Superman film, but if you’re hoping to see it soon, I wouldn’t hold my breath. There’s no indication of where this new Superman movie is in its development, other than Gunn is writing it. Gunn confirmed that they will be sharing more about their slate of DC Films in January, so hopefully, we should get some confirmation on it then.
I love Superman, I love DC, and more than anything I want DC Films to succeed. Sure, I’m sad for Henry because I know he loved the character, but if this is what’s best, then I’m all for it. I want the characters I love to shine on the big screen. I want other people to see how special this universe is, and how special characters like Superman are.
When you see Superman flying, you believe you can fly. No matter how vile or malicious we may be, Superman continues to believe in us, believe that we can be better. He sets an example that we all should aspire for, and more than anything, the world needs a Superman right now. A Superman that shows the world that it’s okay to be different, it’s okay to love unconditionally, and it’s okay to be… you.
Frank Quitely, Jamie Grant
I wish James and Peter nothing but the best of luck, I’ll be rooting from the sidelines as a mega fan. Hopefully one day I’ll get to join you as a writer to help bring these characters to life. As for Superman, Batman, and all of DC’s characters for the future of this reboot, I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
(Below are a few DC characters I’d love to see on the big screen in the future.)
I’ve always had a soft spot for business management sims. Consequently, Sim City and Theme Park were the go-to games of my youth. However, the genre has evolved considerably, and as such, it isn’t as accessible to newcomers as it once was. Yet, things have changed with the introduction of My Fantastic Ranch. This colourful and cute game is perfect for gamers of all abilities. Furthermore, it has plenty of depth to keep veterans happy.
Developed by Piece of Cake Fabulous and published by Nacon, this is a vivid and fun business management sim. What’s more, it has oodles of adorable mythical beasts, and nice learning curve, and an easy-to-follow progression system. Accordingly, it won’t overwhelm you, and it has enough layers to keep you coming back for more.
A beautiful and organised park.
My Fantastic Ranch is possibly too cute.
Now, I like a cute title as I can enjoy it with my younger children. Thereupon, My Fantastic Ranch ticked this box multiple times. Regardless, even I believe that the cup of cuteness was overflowing. Moreover, every element wreaked of clichéd ideas and had a distinctly feminine edge. This isn’t a complaint, but even I found it to be possibly too cute. Yet, my girls adored the beautiful unicorns, the fun shows, and the easy-to-understand mechanics.
You are the owner of an empty piece of land. Here, you must build the most fabulous ranch to appease every guest. On top of this, the kingdom’s royalty will visit, and you’ll want to impress them. How do you do this? Well, you adopt pets, train them up, and put on shows. Alongside this, you’ll hire staff, educate students, and decorate every available space. The aim of the game is to earn gems, build up your reputation, and own the best ranch possible.
The pets love to entertain people.
Simple mechanics and enjoyable elements.
So, the cutesy nature was too much for me. But the gameplay was enjoyable, nevertheless. I adored the simplicity and friendly progression system. Effectively, you must put on shows to earn money and build your reputation. However, it isn’t that straightforward as you must match each creature’s needs to their handler. What’s more, each pet needs to be looked after and their fatigue must be managed. If you fail to do these things, each show will suffer, and your reputation will be in shatters.
The performances require little input, and this may disappoint some of you. Yet, there are moments when your beasts run a muck. When this happens, you must pull them into line, otherwise, the show will fail. If you do well, you’ll earn more gems and you’ll buy bigger and better facilities. Furthermore, you can adopt rarer pets and this improves your wow factor.
As the action progresses, you’ll be able to test your riders and pets in tournaments and audacious shows. The latter is a test to see if you can impress the Royal family. If you do, a special event triggers and you are in for a wonderful surprise. Yet, if you fail, you’ll get some feedback and you’ll return stronger and try again. The tournaments, on the other hand, are a little tougher. Here, you must perfectly match each competitor to get the best results. If you are victorious, your reputation excels and you are handsomely rewarded.
My Fantastic Ranch has a Nintendo vibe.
With colourful imagery and cute sprites, My Fantastic Ranch is distinctly Nintendo in its approach. Now, this isn’t a bad thing per se, but for me, I would have liked more detail. Instead, everything is stripped back, and perhaps it is a little basic for a modern title. However, if you can overlook this minor issue, you’ll enjoy a vivid and easy-to-look-at game. Moreover, the camera angles were excellent, and the UI was well-structured.
Unsurprisingly, the developers have focused on an upbeat and jovial soundtrack. Furthermore, the sound effects are loud and fun and match the fantasy theme. Thankfully, though, nothing was too OTT, as this would have been unbearable. Instead, I believe the balance is just right.
The park is thriving.
Excellent controls.
As My Fantastic Ranch is aimed at younger gamers and newcomers, it has a simple learning curve. Consequently, it is easy to play and the fundamentals are mastered immediately. What’s more, the aforementioned UI ensures there are no nasty surprises. Where this excels, is that younger players can enjoy it with limited adult intervention. I adored this approach, as every element is user-friendly and lacks a violent or aggressive edge.
The progression system ensures that there is some longevity. Furthermore, as you expand your ranch, you’ll let your creative juices flow. Accordingly, no playthrough is the same as you’ll adopt unique pets, hire additional staff, and encounter a variety of students. Word of warning, though, if you are a veteran of this genre, there won’t be enough depth to keep you interested for any length of time. As such, you’ll need to enjoy it casually or with younger gamers.
My Fantastic Ranch is a great starting point.
My Fantastic Ranch shouldn’t be compared to the great sim titles of the past. Instead, it should be considered a great starting point for younger gamers or newcomers to the genre. Though there is some depth, it rarely pushes you out of your comfort zone. Subsequently, it is easy to pick up, but must also be enjoyed casually. My girls loved the ridiculously cute characters and the easy-to-master concept. Therefore, I’m happy to recommend that you buy it here! Can you make the ranch of your dreams? Hire staff, adopt pets, and impress everyone you meet.
It’s rare that hybrids of juxtaposing genres work. In fact, I can’t think of a memorable game that fits the bill. Accordingly, will Soccer Story rise to the occasion and be a guiding light for other strange concepts? Sadly, I doubt it, but its zany plot and interesting characters keep the action ticking along nicely.
Developed by PanicBarn and published by No More Robots, this is a sport and RPG crossover. As such, it attempts to incorporate a competitive edge into its weird narrative. Furthermore, there is a levelling system, an array of quests, and some nice pixel art to admire along the way. However, there is this niggle that I can’t quite shift. Sadly, the action has a repetitive edge, and the sports elements never quite shine. Therefore, it doesn’t fulfil its potential, and that was disappointing.
Train to be the best.
Soccer Story has a dramatic plot.
Though Soccer Story has some wayward ideas, its dramatic and occasionally lighthearted plot works extremely well. It has been a year since “The Calamity” and the downfall of soccer as the world knows it. The idea of soccer (football) has been banned, and the thought of kicking a ball around a park is frowned upon. However, one day, a magic ball attaches itself to the protagonist, and the adventure begins. This unlikely hero will bring soccer back to the masses while taking down the brutal corporation, Soccer Inc.
The dramatic plot allows the developers some creative licence. Accordingly, they took full advantage as every task and quest involved football-based skills. Whether you are dribbling around cones, finding secret goals, collecting goods, or destroying drones, you’ll use your magic ball and your skills to complete each job. On top of this, your band of misfits must challenge an array of whacky teams to compete to become the champions of the world.
Disappointingly, none of these tasks is difficult, and the action suffers because of it. Sadly, the minor twists in the gameplay loop do little to inspire you to play this for long periods. As such, you’ll tackle this in bitesize chunks to ensure you don’t tire of the core concept.
Soccer volleyball?
A magic ball and upgrade medals.
Though the action plateaus early on, I enjoyed the magic ball and the blend of football-based tasks. Moreover, though the matches weren’t challenging, I liked its fast-paced antics that broke up the monotony of the gameplay loop. Alongside this, you’ll earn medals for every task you complete. These are used to improve each player in your team, and this makes a massive difference when playing with tougher opponents.
This was an excellent decision, as you could tailor your team to your play style. What’s more, it was great fun having a rapid and brutally strong team that bulldozed everything in sight. However, what was odd was that the developers locked certain skills behind a progress wall. As such, you had to complete elements of the story before you could improve these abilities. Consequently, this was a frustrating decision by the developers that held the action back unnecessarily.
This approach also impacts the gameplay flow. For unknown reasons, there are tasks in the opening areas that cannot be completed for some time. Subsequently, once you have upgraded your strength, speed, and so forth, you can return to mop up the additional quests. In theory, this should be a good idea. In reality, it is dull, as it enforces you to traverse each region multiple times.
Soccer Story is delightfully pixelated.
I wasn’t that impressed with the action, but the visuals were fantastic. If you love old-school games and classic RPGs, you’ll adore Soccer Story. Its colourful and rough appearance was great to look at. Moreover, the varied backdrops, basic sprites, and retro text bubbles were all incredible. Though it doesn’t test the power of modern consoles, I appreciated its dated style and the nod to classic early console gaming.
This classic approach was continued with upbeat songs and shrill sound effects. The jovial music and the blend of tunes match the emotion of each scene. What’s more, the crowd noises and the associated sounds during each match were great. Accordingly, PanicBarn has done a great job with the audio.
Every old-school RPG has fishing at its core.
Excellent controls.
Soccer Story has a simple control system to ensure that it is easy to understand and play. Furthermore, thanks to its excellent tutorial and basic UI, you’ll master the fundamentals immediately. With an array of shots to use and some simple passing options, you’ll complete each task with ease.
The developers have attempted to inject life into the game by including a fun multiplayer option. As such, you can play with up to 3 others as you play soccer in each of the colourful stadiums. On top of this, you can choose your team and players from the eclectic characters you encounter. Other than this, the action is repetitive and can only be enjoyed casually.
Soccer Story had potential.
PanicBarn delivers a colourful game that is full of zany characters. However, its repetitive approach and constant back and forth undermine it from the off. I liked many of the ideas, but its limited depth holds them back. Consequently, I am on the fence, even though it is free to play on Xbox Game Pass. Sadly, I can’t recommend it, but more information can be found here! Can you bring soccer back to the masses? Use your magic ball to complete each task and win every match you compete in.
Turmoil, the tongue-in-cheek oil drilling game, has been much-loved since its release in 2016. Fans on the Steam platform adore its charming style and its silly take on the 19th century American oil rush. However, what it was missing was a multiplayer mode!
Gamious the publisher and developer of this fun game have decided enough is enough. Consequently, they have released a multiplayer update to appease their fanbase. As such, its monstrous following can now compete against one another to become the ultimate oil entrepreneur.
What features are in the latest Turmoil update?
Multiplayer mode features a completely new and more compact map, where instead of just playing NPCs, players will now be pitted against each other. Players will be able to join a random game against three other gamers or start a custom experience with friends. The same areas and technology progression as in the main game will be used. It’s also possible to start a game against just one other player, where the remaining open slots will be filled with NPCs.
What has the team said?
“Ever since the launch of Turmoil, players have been requesting a multiplayer mode. After releasing the DLC campaign ‘The Heat is On’, and porting the game to other platforms and mobile, we finally got around to making this. We’re thrilled to offer this free update to our players, if only because we can’t wait to take on the competition ourselves!” said Jos Bouman, Creative Director of Gamious.
Bouman continues: “The Turmoil franchise has been around for years, and it’s still going strong. The release of the multiplayer update will certainly not be the last. Work has already started on new content, and we’ll have exciting news to share about that next year!”
(If this news interests you, a link to Turmoil can be found here!)
Are you tired of feeling anxious thinking about how secure your virtual calls are? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll go through some basic measures you may take to ensure the privacy of your virtual phone calls. From using a reputable calling platform like Google Voice for business to setting strong passwords and being cautious about who you invite to your call, we’ll help you take control of your online security. So why wait? Let’s get started!
Overview of Virtual Audio Calls
A virtual audio call is a phone call that is made over the internet rather than using a traditional phone line. This type of call is also sometimes referred to as a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) call. Making virtual calls is a great way to stay connected with friends and colleagues, irrespective of where you are!
One of the main benefits of virtual audio calls is that they are often much cheaper than traditional phone calls. Because the call is made over the internet, you don’t have to pay for long-distance or international calling charges. This can be especially helpful if you need to make regular calls to friends and family who live far away.
Another benefit of virtual audio calls is that they are more convenient than traditional phone calls. With a virtual audio call, you can make calls from any device with an internet connection, whether it’s a smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer. This means you can make calls from anywhere, at any time.
In addition, many virtual audio platforms offer additional features, such as the ability to record calls, share files, and even hold video conferences. This can be useful for business meetings, remote team collaboration, and other professional purposes.
Overall, these calls offer a convenient, affordable, and feature-rich alternative to traditional phone calls.
Tips to Make Virtual Audio Calls Safely
Making virtual audio calls safely is similar to placing virtual video calls safely. Here are some good tips to keep in mind:
Use a reputable and secure audio-calling platform. You can go for Skype, Google Hangouts, or Zoom. These platforms use end-to-end encryption, which means that only you and the person you are speaking with can access the content of your call.
Use a strong and unique password for your call. This will prevent unauthorized individuals from joining your call and potentially listening in on your conversation.
Avoid sharing sensitive information during the call. This includes things like passwords, bank account numbers, and other personal details. If you need to share sensitive information, do so through a secure channel, such as a password-protected file-sharing service.
Be cautious about whom you invite to join your call. Only invite people you trust, and beware of anyone whom you don’t know well or whom you haven’t talked to in a while. This can help prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your personal information.
Keep your computer and other devices up to date with the latest security patches and software updates. This will help protect against potential security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
Adhering to these tips will go a long way toward guaranteeing the safety and confidentiality of your virtual audio calls.
The Most Frequent Vulnerabilities of Virtual Audio Calls
Virtual audio calls are a convenient and affordable way to stay connected with friends and loved ones, but they are not without their vulnerabilities. In the below section, we will discuss some of the most frequent vulnerabilities of virtual audio calls and what you can do to protect yourself against them.
One of the most common vulnerabilities of virtual audio calls is unsecured connections. If a virtual audio call is not encrypted, it can be intercepted and listened to by unauthorized individuals. To protect against this, be sure to use a reputable and secure calling platform that uses end-to-end encryption.
Another frequent vulnerability of virtual audio calls is weak or default passwords. If a virtual audio call uses a weak or default password, it can be easily hacked by someone who knows the password or can guess it. To protect against this, be sure to use a strong and unique password for each of your virtual audio calls.
Unauthorized access is another common vulnerability of virtual audio calls. If a virtual audio call does not have adequate security measures in place, it can be accessed by unauthorized individuals who may be able to listen in on the conversation. To protect against this, be sure to use a platform that offers options like requiring participants to be approved by the host before they can join the call.
Malware and viruses can also pose a threat to virtual audio calls. These malicious programs can be used to gain access to personal information or to cause harm. To protect against this, be sure to keep your computer and other devices up to date with the latest security patches and software updates.
Finally, virtual audio calls can be vulnerable to social engineering attacks. In these attacks, hackers use psychological manipulation to trick users into divulging sensitive information or giving them access to the call. To protect against this, be cautious about whom you invite to your virtual audio calls and be wary of any suspicious messages or requests for sensitive information.
How to Spot the Vulnerabilities
It’s important to be aware of the potential vulnerabilities of virtual audio calls and take steps to protect against them. Here are a few key things to look out for to spot vulnerabilities in virtual audio calls.
Unsecured connections: If a virtual audio call is not encrypted, it can be intercepted and listened to by unauthorized individuals. To determine if a virtual audio call is encrypted, look for a padlock icon or the word “encrypted” in the call platform’s user interface.
Weak or default passwords: A virtual audio call with a weak or default password can be easily hacked by someone who knows the password or can guess it. To spot a weak password, look for passwords that are short, simple, or commonly used (e.g., “password123”).
Unauthorized access: If a virtual audio call does not have adequate security measures in place, it can be accessed by unauthorized individuals who may be able to listen in on the conversation. To spot unauthorized access, look for unexpected participants or any suspicious activity during the call.
Malware and viruses: Virtual audio calls can be vulnerable to malware and viruses, which can be used to gain access to personal information or to cause other harm. To spot malware and viruses, look for any unusual behavior on your computer or other devices (for example, slow performance, pop-up windows, or unexpected system crashes).
Social engineering attacks: Virtual audio calls are vulnerable to social engineering attacks, in which hackers use psychological manipulation to trick users into divulging sensitive information or giving them access to the call. To spot a social engineering attack, look for suspicious messages or requests for sensitive information that seems out of character for the sender.
How to Choose the Right Virtual Calling Platform
When choosing a virtual audio call platform, there are a few key things to check:
Security: Look for a platform that uses end-to-end encryption to protect your calls from being intercepted. This will help ensure that only you and the person you are speaking with can access the content of your call.
Password protection: Choose a platform that allows you to set a strong and unique password for each of your calls. This will help prevent unauthorized individuals from joining your call and potentially listening in on your conversation.
User control: Look for a platform that offers options like requiring participants to be approved by the host before joining the call. This will give you an extra layer of control over who can access your conversation.
Additional features: Consider a platform that offers additional features, such as the ability to record calls, share files, and hold conferences. These features can be useful for business meetings, remote team collaboration, and other professional purposes.
Ease of use: Choose a platform that is easy to use and navigate. This will make it easier for you to set up and manage your virtual audio calls.
Sum Up
Don’t let security concerns keep you from enjoying the convenience and affordability of virtual audio calls. Keeping your virtual phone calls private and secure is as easy as following the above instructions. From using a reputable and secure platform to setting strong passwords and being cautious about whom you invite to your call, you can take control of your online security and make your virtual audio calls with confidence.
Using the advice from the article, you can pick the safest calling platform. So why wait? Start making safe and secure virtual audio calls today!
Ho, Ho… Ho? Santa Claus has came to town just in time for the holidays at your local theater. He comes with presents, Christmas magic, and a whole lot of violence. Yes, that’s not a typo, this version of Old Saint Nick has to inadvertently get his hands bloody to save a family’s Christmas, and it’s just as awesome as you’d imagine.
Season’s Greetings
It’s Christmas time again, and the pressure of delivering presents to all the good boys & girls across the globe is getting to Santa. He’s a drunken mess, but that’s to be expected, right? I’m sure being Santa has its perks, one of them being only having to work once a year, but man, what a stressful one day it must be.
David Harbour, most famously known for playing Hopper in Stranger Things, is our Santa Claus in Violent Night, and if we’re giving out best casting awards, this one would take the cake for me. After watching the film, there’s just nobody else that could have portrayed a murderous, yet loving, Santa. He does such a good job at being vicious and mean, but also caring and gentle when he needs to be. Harbour is excellent at balancing the two sides, similar to his performance in Stranger Things.
A Christmas Gone Sour
The story in Violent Night is rather straight forward, but serves the script well. Santa, while delivering presents to the Lightstone family, gets caught up in a heist gone wrong. He must fight his way out while also trying to save an innocent child who just wants to have a good Christmas. It’s not overly complicated and it doesn’t need to be, just pure fun in cinema form.
This simple plot serves the script well, with tons of hilarious jokes, and plenty of action packed into under 2 hours.
Letting Actors Shine
Violent Night has some stellar Cinematography, coupled with amazing set design and some great acting. Harbour of course brings it as he always does, but across the board I thought everyone did a great job in this film. John Leguizamo playing the villain was a great choice as he absolutely smashed it as Harbour’s counter. Even the random members of Leguizamo’s squad were great, each offering up funny moments, and some rather painful ones.
Closing
If you’re a fan of Christmas movies and you’re looking for a good time, or just something different than the boring love stories, then this is your movie. There’s not a second where you’ll find yourself being bored during this film, and there will be plenty of laughs in store for you.
Obviously to any parents, don’t take your kids to see this film. This film is bloody, and for some scenes you may have to close your eyes. It never holds back which is why I love it so much. A last shout-out to David Harbour who is such an underrated actor. Without a doubt Violent Night is one of the best movies I’ve seen in 2022. Happy Holidays everyone!
Getting the right controller is no mean feat. Thankfully, I tried and tested an array of pads in my time. Recently, I’ve been lucky to experience some responsive and well-built peripherals. However, few compare to the Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller. Accordingly, when Nacon announced 2 new colour options, I had to get in on the action.
With a choice of Urban or Forest Camo, you can select the accessory that reflects your personality. Furthermore, you are guaranteed to get an amazing piece of kit that ticks every box. Consequently, this incredible controller will impress you from the off. With tactile grips, extra mappable buttons, adjustable weights, a lengthy braided cable, and more, it has a professional edge. On top of this, it comes with a handy carry case, and there is an app to create up to 4 profiles. Moreover, it includes Dolby Atmos for headphones, and this is a game changer.
What’s in the box of the Forest Camo Revolution X Pro Controller?
The excellent packaging safely houses its contents. What’s more, it is adorned with key selling points and interesting images. Thankfully, most of it can be recycled, and this was a big positive.
A hardened carry case. Take your controller with you and know that it is perfectly safe.
The Forest Camo Revolution X Pro Controller looks fantastic. Furthermore, the build quality is superb. To the rear, you’ll find 4 mappable buttons and switches to change your profile. On top of this, you there are compartments to alter the weight of the pad and tactile grips for comfort.
Weights and analogue sticks. This elite controller lets you adjust its overall weight and the height and type of analogue stick. You can pick from 10g, 14g, or 16g. Alongside this, you can alter the height and cap of each thumbstick.
3-metre braided cable. This USB-C cable is robust and designed last.
1-month Game Pass subscription. Join Game Pass for free for your first month.
User manual. Make the most of this controller by familiarising yourself with the finer points.
Technical aspects.
Extreme customisation: Gamers can choose the stick style and controller’s weight, and also tune it with the Revolution X app (trigger responsiveness, stick curves, button mapping).
Total immersion: Dolby Atmos for Headphones technology is built into the controller for precision audio, while the more comfortable gaming experience boosts gaming performance.
Designed for competition: Playing competitively or just for fun, the Revolution X guarantees latency-free gaming.
Portable: With a rigid carry case included, this is a controller that can be taken anywhere.
Whenever I consider a new controller, I need it to be hard-wearing, and comfortable, and it has to have customisable buttons. If it has extra features, then this is a bonus. Thankfully, the Forest Camo Revolution X Pro Controller ticks every box and more. Subsequently, I was impressed with every element and adored using this accessory.
The first noticeable element is how comfortable the pad is. With adjustable weights and tactile grips, this is perfect for long gaming sessions. On top of this, the buttons are tactile and have a nice level of travel. Furthermore, the analogue stick is responsive, and the movement is smooth. Next, you must consider the excellent placement of the mappable rear buttons. These sizeable inputs are easy to use and simple to customise.
Alongside the comfortable design is a hard-wearing shell. The toughened case ensures that the controller holds up to a little roughhousing. Furthermore, the excellent livery is striking and wonderful to look at. On top of this, the button layout is similar to the official Microsoft controller, and that was a great design choice.
Easy to map.
When you have a customisable pad, you don’t want it to be complicated. Thankfully, the Forest Camo Revolution X Pro Controller is as straightforward as it comes. Thanks to the free-to-download Revolution X app, you can adjust every aspect of this accessory. You can turn off the vibration motors, adjust the right analogue LED, map the buttons, change trigger sensitivity, and more. However, this wasn’t the piece de resistance. No, that’s reserved for the 4 user profiles that can be selected on the fly. Consequently, you can have a profile for each genre you play.
So, we know it looks great, is built to last, and can be mapped with ease. But what about its audio capabilities? Well, these are incredible as well. With a built-in 3.5mm audio socket, you can fit any suitable headset into the controller. But that isn’t what makes it stand out. No, what makes it special is the built-in Dolby Atmos for headphones. This piece of technology is mind-blowing and a game-changer. What’s more, it gives you a competitive edge over your competition. Thanks to the 3D audio, you’ll transform your gaming experience.
Is the Forest Camo Revolution X Pro Controller worth it?
Mappable controllers aren’t that rare these days. In fact, manufacturers such as PowerA, Turtle Beach, and Gamesir are all in on the action. However, Nacon has delivered a top-notch product that won’t break the bank. Furthermore, its excellent app and easy-to-select profiles make this stand out from its peers. On top of this, the adjustable weights, the excellent livery, and the travel case give it that extra edge over its competitors.
However, my favourite part of this controller is the build quality and the Dolby Atmos for headphones. Unlike its peers, it doesn’t have that plastic feel, nor did I worry that it would break. Moreover, the responsive buttons and smooth analogue movement make it a pleasure to use. Yet, I can’t express how much I adored the Dolby Atmos for headphones. This feature makes it so appealing that I’d buy it for this alone. Accordingly, I absolutely recommend that you buy one here!
For content creators, a good content creation tool is like Spider-Man’s web-shooters or Captain America’s shield. Can you perform without it? Maybe. But does it make you a workplace hero? Most absolutely! Every excellent content marketer has a secret weapon armory that allows them to execute their work quicker, better, or more creatively. Without the correct digital content creation tools and mobile apps, content marketing may be time-consuming, exhausting, and even unproductive.
What Content Production Tools Will Make You a Superhero?
Have you ever gazed at a blank document, unsure where to begin? Have you ever spent hours on a blog post or producing a video only to have it fail miserably? Every content producer has been there, but the correct tools might help you eliminate obstacles like writer’s block and unsuccessful postings in the future. If your in-handy software arsenal is looking a little feeble, you’re at the perfect spot! In this post, we’ll go through the best content production tools to help you with every step of the process.
Content Ideation Tools
Every excellent piece of content begins with a fantastic concept. It will feel nearly impossible to write or generate interesting content if you are trying to come up with original ideas. The content ideation tools listed below may help you overhaul your content research and generate content ideas that are topical, intriguing, and relevant to your target audience.
Google Trends
See how various topics have trended in Google searches over time using this content ideation tool. All you have to do is to type in a term to track interest in it over the years. A search for “fidget spinner,” for example, returns a large surge on modern smartphones in May 2017, when the item became popular.
BuzzSumo
BuzzSumo is a sophisticated topic research tool that can accomplish a lot of various things for you. Use it for content research, content discovery, finding influencers, and monitoring what’s going on online. Some Companies may also use this tool for validating your content strategy to verify it is in line with what is presently resonating and trending.
Some Other Alternatives
Looking for some other cool content research and planning utilities? Here are some of the options from Windows Store to consider:
Product Hunt – for discovering new products;
Reddit – for defining thought-provoking questions;
Trends by The Hustle – for hunting for current market trends;
Ahrefs – for keyword research.
Video Content Production Tools
Video content is a must for small business marketing. Recent studies show that the audience is engaged more with a short video than a lengthy text. No matter what your small business specializes in, video content is a king. Nowadays, you do not need to have any special skills or expertise to create quality and engaging videos. Instead, you can use special programs, great advice and courses from the top video producers– they aid in the production of multimedia content.
FlexClip
FlexClip is an excellent tool for small business video production, offering a user-friendly interface that simplifies the creation of professional-quality videos. Whether you need promotional clips, tutorials, or social media content, Flexclip provides a rich library of templates, stock media, and easy editing features. This versatile platform allows you to create videos that reflect your brand’s style without requiring advanced technical skills, making it a perfect addition to your video content production toolkit.
InvideoAI
Invideo offers a free AI video generator that lets you create text to video content with a single prompt. Generate engaging videos featuring stunning visuals, captivating voices, and well-crafted scripts with ease. Transform your ideas into visually appealing stories without any technical expertise. With invideoAI, experience the power of AI-driven video creation that brings your content to life. Customize your videos to match your brand’s style and tone, ensuring a unique and memorable viewing experience. Ideal for marketers, educators, and content creators, invideoAI makes video production accessible, fast, and fun.
Movavi Video Editor
Editor from Movavi is a straightforward video editing and production application that lets you trim, add music, utilize a green screen, apply different effects, and more – in a word, it’s an awesome clip and video trailer maker. If you’re engaged in sketches or entertaining video production, this platform is just perfect for you.
HitFilm
The best thing about using HitFilm for video production is that it’s easy to use yet generates professional-level videos. The video editing platform provides direct access to stock photographs and music, which speeds up the editing process. You’ll also have access to a large visual effects library to kick things up a notch.
GIPHY
GIFs are dynamic, amusing, and extremely brief video clips that are an excellent way to capture attention and engage your audience. GIPHY allows you to browse an existing GIF library or make your own from a YouTube video or footage you captured yourself. The GIF maker provides you with a ton of editing options, and the opportunity to embed your GIF online via GIPHY or download the source file to submit elsewhere.
Tools for Scheduling and Planning
It is way easier and faster to share your newly created content with special scheduling and planning programs. Why? It allows you to stay on track, develop effective content calendars, and go live with your content just when your audience is waiting for it.
Buffer
Plan and manage your social media calendar using Buffer. The SMM planner is a service that helps you publish content, measure interaction, and analyze data in one simple platform.
Trello
If you have an editorial schedule you need to maintain for your social media marketing strategy, Trello makes it straightforward. Put the information you need for each blog post (such as the title, description, URL, and photos) on a card and date it. In the calendar view of the list-making application, you can see your publication schedule.
Google Calendar and Google Sheets
There isn’t much that Google Calendar and Google Sheets can’t accomplish. Both are useful for planning out what content you want to post, tracking what had been rolled out, and keeping track of crucial details about each piece of content.
Tools for Creating Visual Content and Design
Lengthy and text heavy content will hardly work for your audience or bring high user interactions. Content marketers recommend using visual elements in your digital content. With free pictures and easy tools, you may quickly and easily create graphics.
Canva
Canva is an excellent pics m aker for creating rapid graphics. It’s so easy to use that final items frequently appear like they came from a professional designer, even though you can actually whip something together in five minutes with little to no expertise. It’s especially useful for social media postings because the appropriate proportions for each social site (for example, Instagram) are already laid out for you. You can accomplish a ton with Canva’s free edition, but its Pro version unlocks premium options like the ability to upload custom fonts or to use premium shapes and photos.
Burst
Burst features a database of free pictures with commercial use permissions whether you require images for blog entries, social media postings, or videos.
Unsplash
Another image-sourcing service, what distinguishes Unsplash is that creators from all around the world post their photographs to the site. Choose from a variety of free, unique photographs with commercial licenses for your content.
What Motivates Marketers to Hunt for Content Production Tools?
According to the New York Times Social Sharing Report, 84% of individuals share a piece of content to spread the word about a cause or company they care about. That is, people are interested in content published by businesses as long as it piques their interest and directly represents your brand’s values and feel. And you can always achieve this goal and produce quality content when you have special and in-handy tools in your digital bag.
Also, one of the tools for creating content should be find people fast search, this application helps both businesses and the businessman himself to find the right people in a short time.
