How is OLED Tech Changing the Future of Foldable Monitors?

Andrew Edney
-
0
How is OLED Tech Changing the Future of Foldable Monitors?

Free Mobile Phone photo and picture

OLED technology has significantly changed the way we use and see the screens of our devices. OLED technology is found in many tech devices, such as smartphones, laptop screens, and car dashboards. With that said, OLED technology offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and the ability to save energy. Read on to learn more about how OLED technology has changed the future of foldable monitors. 

What Makes OLED Technology Special?

OLED technology has updated the way we see and use tech devices from the conventional LCDs to LED displays. The various factors that come into play make the OLED technology special, such as the fact that OLED panels establish better image quality. Also, the oled flexible monitor is energy-efficient compared to the conventional monitor, which comes in handy in saving battery life.

The flexibility of OLED technology allows for the manufacturing of thin and flexible designs, which make tech devices look and feel sleek. OLED displays are used in various applications, such as vehicles, smartphones, and wearables. In the near future, OLED tech is expected to change the future of foldable monitors. 

The Science Behind OLED Panels – An Overview 

To understand how OLED tech is changing and upgrading the future of foldable monitors, it is important to understand the science behind OLED panels. Organic compounds are used in OLED technology after the application of electricity. Unlike conventional LCDs, OLEDS don’t require a backlight, which enables the vibrant colors and true blacks. 

OLED displays are made of several layers, including a substrate that is made of plastic or glass. It also comprises organic layers, an anode, and a cathode. 

Integration of Touch Sensitivity

The UPERFECT OLED  integrates touch sensitivity, which is a layer that comes at the top of the OLED monitor. With the use of various inputs and methods, the top layer can detect touch, which is also an essential part of modern devices, such as the latest premium-quality smartphones. In modern devices, capacitive touch technology is more common than ever before. Multi-touch capabilities are also an essential part of OLED monitors. 

The combination of touch and OLED technology results in vibrant displays that are not only incredibly responsive but also visually stunning. 

Extended Battery Life

When it comes to OLED foldable monitors, due to the innovative technology, you can expect better battery life and more energy efficiency. In comparison to LCD screens, OLED monitors don’t require a constant backlight, which further emphasizes the fact that OLED monitors only use energy when their pixels are illuminated. This aspect establishes a longer battery life in portable tech devices, such as smartphones and cars. 

OLED technology has been exclusively built with sustainability in mind, which is why OLED is a greener option for electronics consumers. 

Great Designs Aesthetics

Another way OLED technology has affected the future of foldable monitors is that the flexibility of the technology has paved the way for the aesthetics of tech devices. Here is the thing: OLED touch monitors can offer unmatched aesthetics and design flexibility. The flexible and thin form aspect allows for innovative designs, such as foldable and curved displays, which makes the OLED monitors all the more appealing. 

The Best Applications of OLED Panels 

When it comes to the most popular applications of OLED touch panels, smartphones and tablets occupy the first place. Smartphones and tablets are being produced in premium and sleek designs, which has made them more compelling than before. Also, the thin and flexible aspect of OLED displays renders them perfect for fitness trackers, smartwatches, and premium smartphones. The sleep and foldable screens can be seamlessly integrated into smart factors and establish crisp and vibrant visuals to boost the user experience. 

Review: StarVaders

Josh Blackburn
-
0
Review: StarVaders

StarVaders has got me thinking about chess again. In my defence, we are moving pieces (alright, one piece) around on a grid. There’s even a boss that leads an army of chess pieces. Anyway, it made me think of the satisfaction that comes with successfully pulling off a complex strategy. Problem is, with chess, there are so many variables that thinking ahead becomes frustrating. StarVaders pulls off an amazing trick by making this forward thinking very simple.

I want to get to Point A and Kill Thing B. Here are my cards, now how can I make that happen? It’s great. In fact, this review is probably just going to be me gushing over StarVaders. See, I saw the terms ‘roguelike’ and ‘deckbuilding’ in the Steam description and let out a slight groan. I’ve played a lot of them. I was prepared for a slog. Instead, StarVaders blew me away and slapped a huge smile on my face. By keeping things simple and stylish, StarVaders taps into a well of endless fun.

Invaders From Space

Let me start by breaking down StarVaders‘ gameplay. You start off by picking your class, each of which has a different specialisation. Gunners, for instance, rely on long-range attacks. Stingers specialise in getting up close and personal. Once you’ve picked your class, you pick your pilot – who have unique cards and special abilities. There’s a whole heck of a lot to unlock in StarVaders, to the point that I’ve only just unlocked the final class. Anyway, from there it’s the usual roguelike progression. Pick an encounter for each step, then fight a boss to close out the act.

The fun stuff comes when you enter a battle. The arena is divided into a grid of varying sizes, with you at the bottom and the enemies at the top. The aim is to destroy all enemies before they get to the lower end of the board, where they’ll start generating ‘doom’. Too much of that and it’s game over. To aid with that, you draw cards that’ll help you to move, shoot or deploy a tactic. There’s a large assortment of cards, which differ between classes, so there are a good number of variations, and chaining together combos is quite simple.

In fact, keeping things straightforward is StarVaders‘ best move. The single objective to destroy all enemies means your end goal is always clear, you just need to cleverly use the cards in your hand to achieve it. For example, gunners’ attacks are just plays on bullets and bombs, so I could position myself to ricochet a bullet into a chain of bombs I’d set up. Aside from junk cards, or burned (so unusable) cards, there’s no wealth of complex mechanics to get bogged down in. It’s just: here are the enemies, and the tools you’ve got to play with. Have at it. It’s magnificient.

Deck Your Foes

Note that simple doesn’t mean easy. StarVaders has an impressive bestiary, and each enemy has vastly different strategies. If you don’t counter them, you’ll very quickly get bogged down. The doom mechanic ensures that you can’t take your time, either, with some bosses shortening the clock considerably. That damn chess boss is a bugger for that. But the demand for quick, snappy moves keeps the pace fast. The progression is quick too, with three encounters before a boss. It means that getting back into the thick of things after death is super fast, preventing that repetitive feeling that can plague the roguelike early game.

Anyway, let me take a quick breath here. I do have something of a minor complaint I’d like to insert, and it’s that the story is handled a little inelegantly. Your pilots do have a backstory, which is told after deaths, but it’s literally just dialogue boxes on a black screen. Rather disappointing, given how nice the art is. Even the main ‘plot’ takes a backseat, being quick snippets after successful runs (though these have lovely art). It seems to be a recurring problem with the genre, even as far back as Slay The Spire. Still, what we have is quite intriguing, it just deserved to stand closer to centre stage.

Right, back on to the positives. Part of the reason why I think StarVaders wormed its way into my heart is in the presentation. Everything is bright and colourful, including the card art. There’s a definite ‘cute’ factor to a lot of things too, and the character designs are wonderful. Soundtrack’s a hit too, being wonderfully energising. I’m listening to it as I write this, so Plasterbrain must’ve done something right with the OST. Honestly, my only issue with StarVaders‘ presentation is its name. Sounds like a straight-to-DVD Star Wars knock-off. Ah well.

StarVaders – Good, Honest Fun

If you’re detecting something of a giddy tone to this review, then you’re probably correct. It’s not often that I just gush about a game without thoroughly going over it with the nit comb. But StarVaders has managed to punch through the ‘game critic’ part of my brain, and connected with the guy that just wants to have a chill and fun time in my downtime. Its relatively short length of runs means I can knock off a few before work, or before starting up a bigger game.

Added into that is the deceptively simple gameplay, which is designed so that you usually always knit together a strategy and feel smart for doing so. I’m nearly always flying by the seat of my pants, and I’m loving it. And, hey, if you can’t stitch one together then StarVaders has a handy rewind function to give you another shot. The result is a game that is dangerously fun. Hell, I’m going to play it more after this. It looks great, sounds great and plays great. It’s damn near the perfect package.

(StarVaders‘ Steam Page)

Review: Spirit of the North 2

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Spirit of the North 2

Spirit of the North 2 is a touching and beautiful adventure game. Taking on the role of a lone fox, you are charged with saving an ancient world. However, things rarely go to plan and luck, exploration, and skill are a must if you wish to succeed. This stunning sequel builds on an incredibly strong foundation. Moreover, it includes a larger open world with many secrets and mysteries to discover.

This open-world platforming title was developed by Infuse Studio and published by Silver Lining Interactive. It is a single-player game that uses a third-person perspective. Furthermore, it is jam-packed with incredible lore, and the action flourishes as a consequence.

The Spirit of the North 2 is beautifully written. 

A red murk lingers across a once beautiful and mysterious world. Different biomes punctuate this magical place. However, death, destruction, and fear run riot. The once-powerful guardians have fallen, and they cannot thrive without your help. These encounters are often testing, but you must step up to the mark if you wish to save the day. 

As you explore each biome, the lone fox leaps, runs, and creeps across the terrain. Rivers, ice, fire, and hellish winds fight you every step of the way. Yet, special runes will help you to overcome the obstacles and free each animal guardian. Once a guardian is released, you are blessed with a new power. This blessing allows you to progress and piece together the broken land.

Balanced gameplay. 

Spirit of the North 2 was occasionally tough to follow. Thankfully, a red stream points you to each key moment. Though this sounds like a simple navigation tool, it isn’t always that straightforward. Leaping chasms and utilising newly learned abilities were tough. However, I adore the balanced gameplay and the almost linear design. 

Each key moment requires certain tools and elements to be completed before you can progress. This was rather limiting, but it prevents you from running before you can walk. The ability to enter an astral plane, fly between portals, block out harsh environments, and more must be learned to save the guardians.

The blend of boss encounters, puzzles, and platforming moments was fascinating. Though the puzzles were mainly fetch quests, it was easy to overlook minor details and derail yourself. Accordingly, an eye for detail and a huge chunk of patience go a long way.

Spirit of the North 2 looks great. 

As you unlock new skills, the sense of freedom is exhilarating. Flying through the air and solving convoluted puzzles was great. Furthermore, each special biome delivers breathtaking views and plenty of dangerous moments. The rushing water, blowing winds, and snow-capped mountains were beautiful to explore. 

The audio enhances the stunning atmosphere. A rich soundtrack delivers drama to the incredible lore-filled action. Moreover, the yap of the fox and the screeching of the raven were amazing to hear. The soundscape captures that mysterious ancient edge that supports the unusual story that unfolds. 

Disappointing controls. 

I’m Spirit of the North 2’s biggest fan. The developer has done an amazing job, mostly. However, the controls are sluggish, unresponsive, and borderline insanity inducing. I died repeatedly as I fell to my doom. I timed my jump perfectly, only for the control system to fail. This wasn’t user error, but a poorly executed layout that lets you down at the most inappropriate moments. I can only hope and pray that this issue gets ironed out in future updates.

Despite the control issues, I battled through. Exploring dark caves and climbing epic mountains was enough to keep me coming back. Moreover, there are wisps to track down, lore scrolls to discover, and plenty of minor dungeons to explore. If you are a completionist, you’ll invest 40 to 50 hours to find everything. If this doesn’t interest you, around 20 hours will be enough to tackle the main story and every key element. 

Spirit of the North 2 is truly magical. 

I was drawn into this Nordic world from the off. Spirit of the North 2 is a phenomenal game that reinvigorates your childish imagination. Every juicy layer of lore and ever-changing environment was spectacular to witness. Additionally, the cutscenes between the fox and the freed guardians touch your soul. Accordingly, this is truly magical and I recommend buying it here! Is 1 fox powerful enough to save the day? Explore the world, unlock new runes, and save every guardian.

Review: Shadow of the Orient

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Shadow of the Orient

Shadow of the Orient is an old-school game with a basic mindset. Effectively, you must move from point A to B while avoiding obstacles, monsters, and other pitfalls. En route, you’ll grab gold, jewels, and keys to open treasure chests. Furthermore, there are 3 prisoners to rescue per stage and plenty of parkour moments to enjoy.

Dolores Entertainment developed and published this side-scrolling platformer. It is a single-player game that comprises 2 unique game modes. First is the adventure endeavour. Here you will tackle 3 acts and 18 worlds. The core mechanics are repetitive and familiar, and the action is a little understated by modern standards. The second mode allows speedrunning gamers to test their skills. This isn’t my forte, but it looked interesting and is sure to test the greatest of players.

Shadow of the Orient tells a heroic tale.

You control Xiaolang, a brave warrior who possesses the elemental power of fire. He harnesses this ability to overcome his foes and explore a dangerous world. However, is he strong enough to tackle the Shadow Clan, rescue the children, and bring peace back to the East? Only time will tell in this fantasy story.

The story may be a little out there, but the action is all too familiar. The simple side-scrolling approach will not blow you away. Luckily, though, the developer has incorporated some minor Metroidvania gameplay to keep you on your toes. Additionally, there are skills to unlock to help you reach otherwise unobtainable heights.

Explore, fight, and hope to survive.

Shadow of the Orient focuses on fighting, exploring, and surviving. Each stage is punctuated by handy checkpoints. The developer has kept this to a bare minimum to enhance the difficulty and to keep you thinking. As you explore the world, you may climb ladders and rock faces. What’s more, there are chasms to leap, spikes to avoid, and deadly lava to miss. If this doesn’t test you, the monsters will put you in your place.

Unfortunately, the hero has a limited arsenal of weapons at their disposal. Mighty fists and your trusty feet are the go-to tools. As the game evolves, you will unlock new weapons with the coins and gems you gather. Yet, until that happens, you will get smashed by flying creatures and beaten by everything on the ground. This was truly frustrating as the hitboxes are a little wonky, and your foes march at an ungodly pace.

Shadow of the Orient is a nice-looking indie game.

The earthy colour palette and repetitive backdrops should have disappointed me, but they didn’t. I liked the stage design and the large worlds to explore. Leaping down pits and jumping across chasms was genuinely interesting and filled with danger. What wasn’t good, though, was the number of glitches and bugs I discovered. For reasons unknown, the game would slow down to a snail’s pace when collecting gems or coins. This happened intermittently and required a full reset to overcome the issue. Alongside this, I fell inside walls more than once, and this caused me to reset the stage while I screamed with rage. 

The audio is relatively straightforward and will not wow you. The sound effects are decent, but lack originality. This was a shame as the developer should of and could have made a big song and dance with their audio. Though this didn’t happen, I enjoyed the music and the basic noises.

It’s a bit sluggish.

Though the controls were easy to understand and simple to execute, the hitboxes were an issue. If you then consider the fast-moving monsters and the inability to freely hit flying creatures, things take a turn for the worse. Shadow of the Orient has a pleasant control layout, but too many minor issues prevent it from excelling.

The inclusion of 2 game modes and plenty of upgrades increases replay value and longevity. Additionally, trying to find each of the children and the treasure chests was challenging. Therefore, if you wish to find every item and unlock every perk and weapon, you will need plenty of luck and loads of patience.

Shadow of the Orient could have been better.

At its core, Shadow of the Orient is a pleasant indie game. I liked the side-scrolling approach and the secrets you find. Furthermore, the game becomes a pleasure as you unlock new gear and abilities. However, the lacklustre audio, sluggish controls, and bugs were not what I expected from a modern indie title. Accordingly, it could have been much better and more polished. Despite these issues, it is fun and I recommend buying it here! Can you fulfil your destiny and become a hero? Harness your power, save the children, and defeat every monster you encounter.

Popular Casino Games for Beginners

Andrew Edney
-
0
Popular Casino Games for Beginners

Entering the casino world may seem daunting and exciting at first sight. Given many possibilities to investigate, it can be hard to know where to begin. Still, some casino games have more beginner-friendly rules and a fantastic starting point into the lively world of casino entertainment. Let’s dive into the most popular casino games for beginners and how you can get started.

Why Choose Beginner-Friendly Casino Games?

A casino newbie must locate games with easy rules and friendly tactics. The games reduce the need to learn and make visiting the casino more relaxing. Many beginner-friendly games also have small stakes, so you may start in the activity without losing a great deal of money. The trick is to discover games that are as available as they are fun.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider exploring platforms like GGBet Casino Games, which cater to beginners with a variety of games to suit different preferences and skill levels.

Top Beginner Casino Games to Try

1. Slot Machines

For beginners at a casino, slot machines seem the perfect starting point. Slots have wide appeal due to their vivid lights, attractive music, and straightforward gameplay. All you need to do is place a bet and spin the reels. Fun themes and bonus components abound on many present slot machines, further increasing their appeal.

  • How to Play: Bet, spin the reels, and see if you have hit winning combinations. That’s all—no complex plans needed.
  • Wide Accessibility: Slots offer diverse betting ranges, catering to every budget.
  • Themes Galore: Modern slots feature captivating themes, bonus rounds, and even progressive jackpots for an extra layer of excitement.

2. Roulette

Another simple but thrilling game for beginners is roulette. Though the famous spinning wheel provides many betting opportunities, you do not need sophisticated techniques to have fun. Beginners usually go for simple bets like odd/even numbers or color selection (red or black).

  • How to Get Started: Focus on outside bets—choose red or black, odd or even, or high or low numbers. These bets have nearly a 50/50 chance of winning, making them ideal for newcomers.

3. Blackjack

If you’re looking for a card game that’s easy to pick up, blackjack is a fantastic choice. The goal is to get a hand value as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. With relatively simple rules and low house edges, blackjack is perfect for beginners who want to try a strategic game.

Beginner Strategies:

  • Always familiarize yourself with basic blackjack strategy charts.
  • Avoid insurance bets—they’re generally not favorable for new players.

4. Baccarat

Baccarat is often associated with high rollers, but it’s one of the simplest table games for beginners. The game has just three possible outcomes: Player wins, Banker wins, or Tie. Since decisions like drawing cards are handled automatically, you can focus on enjoying the experience.

  • Tips for Beginners: Betting on the Banker generally offers the best odds. On the flip side, steer clear of Tie bets, as they come with a significantly higher house edge.
  • Why Baccarat Shines: Its simplicity lets new players enjoy the experience without worrying about intricate rules or strategies.

This elegant card game is perfect for players who want a low-pressure introduction to the world of casino tables.

5. Craps

Craps might seem intimidating at first because of the lively atmosphere and numerous betting options, but it’s surprisingly approachable once you learn the basics. For beginners, sticking to simple bets like the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line can make craps an enjoyable introduction to dice games.

  • Why Craps Is Unique: Its lively, social atmosphere makes it one of the most dynamic games in a casino.
  • Getting Started: Start small with straightforward bets and gradually explore the more complex options as you grow comfortable.

Once you grasp the basics, craps becomes an exhilarating experience that’s both approachable and highly entertaining.

Responsible Gaming

As you venture into casino games, always keep responsible gaming in mind:

  • Budget Wisely: Set limits for your spending and stick to them.
  • Take Breaks: Don’t let the excitement of casino games consume too much of your time.
  • Know When to Walk Away: Whether you’re winning or losing, know when to stop.

By practicing mindful gaming, you can ensure that your casino experience remains enjoyable and stress-free.

Getting started with casino games doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing beginner-friendly games like slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, or craps, you can ease into the casino experience while having fun and learning the ropes.

Review: Ardor ANC headphones

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Ardor ANC headphones

The Ardor ANC headphones from Kiwi Ears are a fantastic audio product. The understated design will appeal to music lovers who hate RGB. Moreover, the substantial case is stylish and robust and great for commuting or going on holiday. The vegan leather and fold-flat design are also great for conscientious and clumsy users.

In addition, the audio is phenomenal. The immersive range of tones and balanced bass will impress even the toughest audiophile. Moreover, the ANC reduces ambient noise by up to 35 dB, creating a near-flawless listening experience.

What’s in the box of the Ardor ANC headphones?

  • The packaging is large without being obnoxious. Furthermore, it is vibrant, eye-catching, and recyclable. 
  • The Ardor ANC headphones are beautifully simple. The dark livery is punctuated by basic patterns. Moreover, every button and port is well-positioned.
  • The hard case looks great while keeping the headphones safe. 
  • A USB-C to USB-C cable is provided. 
  • Use a wired connection with the 3.5mm audio jack cable. 
  • Learn the basics with the user manual. 

Technical aspects. 

Though incredible audio is the name of the game, there are other key technical aspects to consider. First, a spectacular battery life and fast charging are a must! Thankfully, you can enjoy up to 140 hours of juice. This is reduced by roughly 50% if you utilise the ANC feature. However, fear not, as 10 minutes of rapid charging will deliver 8 hours of playtime. The battery life may not be market-leading, but it is suitable for most people’s needs.

Whenever you purchase a wireless headset, you want the Bluetooth to be stable and reliable. The Ardor ANC headphones use Bluetooth 5.4 for a perfect experience. During testing, I noticed no latency issues, and there were no drops in connectivity. Furthermore, the power draw is minimal, and this ensures the battery lasts longer.

The ANC is a custom hybrid system that uses a 5-microphone array. This system reduces unwanted ambient sounds up to 35 dB. Though this won’t eliminate the noise of trucks, buses, and motorbikes, it improves your audio experience and supports the incredible 40mm audio drivers.

Sound quality. 

Headphones live and die by their audio quality. Luckily, the Ardor ANC headphones deliver incredible sound. The 40mm dual dynamic drivers offer a perfect blend of mid tones, high and low tones, and a juicy bass. This true-to-life soundscape is to die for! What’s more, you can crank the volume, and the headphones never crackle.

I used these headphones while walking, running, and gaming with my Steam Deck. Every task was executed with utmost perfection. The ANC reduced unwanted sounds when out and about. However, when in a quiet space, the tight earcups ensure I can turn this feature off. The crisp 40mm drivers deliver pinpoint accuracy, and I never struggled with cutscenes or quieter moments.

Build quality.

I am extremely picky, and poor build quality is a real turn-off. Uncomfortable earcups, poor headbands, and badly placed buttons/ports are my bugbears. Thankfully, the Ardor ANC headphones suffer from none of these issues. The plush vegan leather earcups feel amazing to wear. They are tight but suitable if you wear glasses. Moreover, they don’t overheat, no matter how long you wear them. 

The fold-flat design was a genius idea. Not only do they take up less space, but the design also reduces the risk of accidentally damaging them when not in use. The pivot point is strong, and the flexibility was impressive. Accordingly, they can take a little rough and tumble without concern.

Finally, the buttons and ports are well-positioned. The user-friendly design takes no time to get used to. Additionally, you won’t accidentally knock the volume dial when adjusting the headphones. Each of the tactile switches was comfortable to use, and the robust nature will last the test of time.

Are the Ardor ANC headphones worth it?

The Ardor ANC headphones can be purchased for around £100. This may seem like a steep price point, but you get a lot of bang for your buck. The audio is unbelievably good, and the build quality, battery life, and overall style are equivalent to higher-priced peers. Additionally, the travel case is a nice bonus. I found my testing to be flawless, and I love the crisp audio and impressive ANC. Accordingly, I love this product and recommend buying it here!

(More information on Kiwi Ears can be found here!)

The Ardor ANC headphones from Kiwi Ears have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Revenge of the Savage Planet

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Revenge of the Savage Planet

Revenge of the Savage Planet is a long-awaited sequel that is coming to Game Pass on day one! This is amazing value for Xbox gamers, and a not-to-be-missed experience. The colourful worlds, zany gameplay, and cutting one-liners keep you hooked. Moreover, the easy-to-understand gameplay and the tricky quests will entertain you throughout.

Raccoon Logic Studio Inc. developed and published this sci-fi adventure title. Moreover, it is a single-player or couch cooperative and online cooperative experience. Though some of the missions are challenging, young gamers can enjoy the action. The non-stop shooting, jumping, and exploration were fantastic. Furthermore, the level design is great, and I adored the drip-fed mechanics. In short, this is one adventure game that did not outstay its welcome.

Revenge of the Savage Planet tells a tale of doom and abandonment.

Greed and stupidity are 2 ingredients that rarely produce award-winning results. Unfortunately, the hero of Revenge of the Savage Planet finds this out the hard way! Having signed up to explore deep space and help humanity thrive, the hero blasts off with high hopes. However, when they arrive, things take a turn for the worse. Abandoned on a faraway world, they must find resources and repair a long-forgotten ship if they are to make it home.

Though many elements of the story are familiar, the execution is fantastic. Each video, email, and random advertisement is filled with satire and dark humour. Moreover, you can make your new home as comfortable as you wish, thanks to the many items that can be purchased. Though this aspect isn’t entirely necessary, I loved creating a base in my new alien universe.

Exceptional gameplay.

The action revolves around a handful of alien planets and plenty of missions. The core gameplay utilises a Metroidvania approach set in an open world. This may frustrate some gamers as the need to remember blocked paths can be overwhelming. Furthermore, there is a sense of frustration if you’ve climbed, jumped, and scurried your way across chasms, lava, and other treacherous obstacles, only to hit a crystal wall or a sticky web.

I didn’t mind this as I enjoyed the drip-fed ideas and the constantly evolving action. Finding lava, acid, water, and other gooey ingredients was fantastic. Melting ice, blowing up rocks, and stomping through cracks was enthralling. Additionally, the never-ending secrets were a joy to discover. 

If this isn’t enough, there are plenty of aliens to thwart and massive bosses to overcome. Each creature requires a unique approach, and getting to the bosses needs a methodical mindset. The puzzles and tricky paths were never too challenging. Yet, as new elements were introduced, things gradually got harder.

Revenge of the Savage Planet is beautiful.

Each of the worlds was a joy to explore. The vibrant colours, vast landscapes, and crazy items were great to look at. Every alien aspect was beautiful, and I adored scanning, observing, and wandering across every planet. Moreover, there were plenty of secrets hidden in plain sight, and this makes you search every nook and cranny. Though the action could be overbearing, I experienced no issues. There were no frame rate problems, and the game ran like a dream on my Xbox Series X.

If you don’t like sassy one-liners and a companion who can’t shut up, Revenge of the Savage Planet may drive you insane. Your helpful robotic sidekick loves to chat. Thankfully, you can reduce their input, but this undermines the story and will leave you wondering what is happening. Consequently, I suggest keeping the non-stop talking machine to improve the plot and your overall experience.

Brilliant controls.

Revenge of the Savage Planet is a pleasure to play. If you are new to the genre, fear not. Every aspect is well explained, and the clear UI and helpful hints keep you on track. Additionally, the controller layout is intuitive, and the radial menu is simple to follow. Subsequently, this is a game that can be enjoyed no matter your gaming ability.

The never-ending quests and massive worlds can feel overwhelming. Furthermore, you explore dank caves, underwater worlds, and floating islands. Therefore, you have to juggle many aspects to keep on top of the action. This should have been horrible, but the developer allows you to explore freely or focus on any task you wish. The only restrictions are the Metroidvania progression tools and your parkour skills. As such, this has mountains of replay value and longevity.

Revenge of the Savage Planet is an amazing game.

Revenge of the Savage Planet has been on my radar for a while. The first game was fantastic, and this one is better. Every aspect is captivating, fun, and the right side of challenging. Though there are some overwhelming moments, and death happens a little too often, this didn’t put me off. I adore the silly story, the vibrant worlds, and each quest. Moreover, it is included with Game Pass, which will make many people happy. I think it’s fantastic, and I recommend buying it here! Can you survive and get home? Repair the Javelin, explore the worlds, and become a hero.

Review: Cookie Run: OvenSmash (closed beta)

Saim Khurshid
-
0
Review: Cookie Run: OvenSmash (closed beta)

Cookie Run: OvenSmash is a new game in the Cookie Run franchise, originally meant for Steam on PC but delayed significantly until it was eventually set to release for Android and IOS. 

It is rare to see in this day and age that a game made for Android or IOS would have some love behind it. Following the success story of Cookie Run: Kingdom has been a great adventure with their latest edition to the party, OvenSmash. 

I’ve had high hopes i’m glad to say that despite the glitchy abomination that was this beta test I still came out having a lot of fun ofcourse it is still in beta and a lot of these issues are to be handles so I will not list the exact glitches although I am compelled to mention the oversized projectiles, SO let’s go through this and get a breakdown of what Ovensmash has to offer.

Tour of Platter City

There are two teams, usually consisting of 3 people each on opposing sides of the map. To win, you must accomplish the goal asked of you in the gamemode you chose. You may eliminate your opponents using your skills. 

First, there is a basic attack. A dash/dodge which can also hurt the foe depending on the character, and there is a special for each character. Some of them can even charge up their normal attacks for stronger hits but only a few.

There are a few game modes which were available to us in the closed beta:

Cookie Castle Crasher:

In this gamemode, there are two teams, 3v3 against each other. There is a giant turtle in the middle of the stage with a cannon on top. The goal is to guide the turtle to your opponent’s base and destroy their castle first. The turtle can still shoot shells from its cannon in whichever direction it is moving, so long as it is close to either of the castles, lowering the health bar. If you reach the opponent’s goal, or either of your health bar ends, the game ends. 

Cookie Battle Royale:

Battle Royale is personally my favourite game mode. In it, there is no team. A large group of 10 players are dropped on the huge map. On the map, in various locations, are these boxes. You must attack them a few times to break them and acquire special cards. These cards have buffs and power-ups on them, like SPD Up and ATK Up, etc. Special cards appear in other modes but are prominent here. The goal is to be the last one standing to win.

Cookie Smash Arena:

Smash Arena, you are on a map almost exactly like the Castle crasher one, but there are no extra checkpoints, and it is a smaller map with one of those special card crates, a bigger one, in the middle. It is another 3v3, and the goal is for your team to get 10 kills before your enemy does to win. The special cards can help make you stronger for it.

Cookie Gold Rush:

This is similar to Smash Arena, but every time you kill someone, they drop gold like Sonic. If your team gains more than 10 gold, it starts a countdown, and if you stay alive, don’t lose your gold within the countdown, you win.

Cookie Character System:

There are 7 classes in total. Tank, Controller, Assault, Assassin, Sniper, Support, and Bomber. There are 16 playable characters as of now. 

Every character has a unique play style and set of skills. I personally really enjoyed using Blue Slushy Cookie and Cherry Cookie as I prefer to deal damage from afar using their long ranged skills.

OvenSmash-in it!!!

It was a glitchy, laggy mess, but it was worth my time. I enjoyed watching my favourite cookies run around across the field. 

The horror I felt knowing my team had no tanks, obliterating everyone in battle royale and much more, was beyond fun. Even in the lobby, it felt nice to make new friends by pretending to fight.

Thank you, Devsisters, for the opportunity for the closed beta test.

And thanks to @Default_Mistake for the insight, opinions, information, and data on the game.

Review: Cube Snake

Saim Khurshid
-
0
Review: Cube Snake

Developed and published by Kabum, Cube Snake is a game of Snake in a 3d environment.

I receive games to review on a week-to-week basis. Sometimes, it may come early, sometimes it may be late, but everytime, it is something new. I like to think that every game has something great to offer, not all games are fun or worth my time but atleast, they are trying something.

Keep that in my mind, when I say that Cube Snake made me fear that it was eating my PC’s innards via a crypto scam.

Snake skin

As the name Cube Snake suggests, you’d expect a Snake game set on a full 3D cube—six sides, full rotation, some clever geometry maybe. That would be generous. What you actually get is a floor and two walls. No ceiling, and two entire sides are just… missing.

Wander too close to the edges and you’re flung into the void, endlessly falling like digital garbage tossed off the map. The game doesn’t reset, warn you, or stop. You simply drift off-screen, never to be seen again. It’s less like navigating a cube and more like crawling through a broken tech demo that forgot to finish building the level. It’s disorienting, dull, and honestly, a bit sad.

Snake Oil

It runs like a snake with severe arthritis. Every movement is a struggle, every frame a painful crawl. At what felt like 2 frames per second, Cube Snake delivers a slow, choppy, and infuriating experience that borders on unplayable. It’s baffling how something this poorly optimised made it to release.

There are scammy Android ad games with more polish, smoother gameplay, and at least some sense of care. The developers seem to have tossed together the bare minimum over a weekend and then walked away.

There’s no proper explanation of what to do, no context, no story, and nothing to guide the player. The settings menu consists solely of a sound toggle. No resolution options, no controls, nothing else. It’s an empty shell of a game.

You control what feels less like a snake and more like a slug in slow motion, dragging itself across three bland 3d platforms to collect oversized shiny orbs. Each orb slightly increases your size, so slightly, you might not even notice. Then you keep going. That’s the entire loop.

Even this barebones experience chugs along miserably. The frame rate stutters, animations lag, and your PC sounds like it’s about to lift off or melt down.

I often wonder why people play bad games. With Cube Snake, I’m left wondering how anyone could even end up buying it—accidentally or otherwise. It’s that broken.

Kids for Profit

Many low-quality games on digital storefronts are not created with entertainment or innovation in mind. They’re made to siphon money from unsuspecting, often unsupervised children. 

Cube Snake falls into this category. It’s barely functional, visually unappealing, and riddled with performance issues, yet it’s positioned in marketplaces where kids can easily stumble upon it. 

Games like these use vague gameplay loops, lack proper tutorials, and rely on flashy graphics—not just to mask poor design, but to act as traps. Their existence reflects a disturbing trend in mobile and PC gaming: exploiting digital naivety for cash. 

Parents must stay vigilant, and platforms need to do more to regulate the trash that targets kids for easy profit under the guise of “fun.” These aren’t harmless games, they’re digital scams dressed in bright colours and false promises.

Imitation Snake Skin

In a world flooded with games, Cube Snake stands out, but for all the wrong reasons. It’s a clunky, borderline broken mess that runs like malware and plays like punishment. I can’t recommend this to anyone, not even out of morbid curiosity.

Save your time, your sanity, and your PC’s dignity. There are far better ways to relive your Snake nostalgia than this disaster.

Review: Sorry We’re Closed

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Sorry We’re Closed

Sorry We’re Closed is such a strange experience that I don’t know how to feel about it. On one hand, I adore the retro perspective and the glorious horror edge. On the other hand, the story is so weird and unusual that it takes some getting used to. Accordingly, it is a bit of a Marmite game, and it could be divisive.

This third-person horror title was developed by a la mode games and published by Akupara Games. It is a single-player and linear-focused endeavour that blends surreal imagery and demonology into one unhealthy package. Furthermore, it is reminiscent of Resident Evil 1, and I love this step-down memory lane.

Sorry We’re Closed proves that love drives you insane.

Love is all-powerful and hard to fathom. However, whenever a relationship ends, both parties are hurt, confused, and struggle to put their lives back together. This is exactly what happens to the protagonist in Sorry We’re Closed. This sense of love and loss haunts her, and it leads her down some rather creepy paths. Yet, even at her lowest, Michelle didn’t expect to attract the attention of a love-sick demon!

The Duchess is a demonic being who is lost, angry, and just a little deranged. Her idea of love is torture, pain, and complete control. However, when her intended targets spurn her advances, things take a turn for the worse. A curse is imparted on the victim, and they get the power to see the realm of demons and angels. Yet, as a bonus, the curse opens the door to the Duchess and her overbearing and “loving” ways.

Choices, choices.

Sorry We’re Closed has a bizarre plot running from beginning to end. Moreover, there are plenty of characters to interact with and loads of story-altering moments. These branching elements keep you guessing throughout. Additionally, you feel in control of the hero’s fate and the path she wishes to take.

The gameplay revolves around 2 key ideas: exploration and fighting. The chapters are set in small areas where demons, monsters, and puzzles stand in your way. Furthermore, there are collectables to find and loads of problems to overcome. None of the puzzles are challenging, and a little thinking goes a long way.

The combat, on the other hand, is brilliantly old-school. The third-person perspective shifts to a first-person viewpoint for ultimate accuracy. As you stare at your opponents, you must use your third-eye power, the Duchess’s curse, to see each monster’s weaknesses. The weak points are shown as beating hearts that break every time you hit them. This simple idea matches the theme of love and heartbreak, and was a nice touch.

Boss battles.

Like its retro peers, Sorry We’re Closed has some epic boss battles. Though none of these encounters truly tested me, I loved the reliance on perfect heartbreaking and using the heartbreaker tool to its full potential. The heartbreaker is an angelic gun that can thwart any demon it hits. Weaker opponents will fall to its deadly ammo in one hit. However, stronger and bigger entities will require 2, 3, or 4 heartbreaker shots to be destroyed.

Sorry We’re Closed looks great.

It feels strange to say a 1996-style game looks great by modern standards. Yet, Sorry We’re Closed gets that accolade. The pixelated and grim visuals are wonderful to look at. Additionally, the blend of garish colours and each of the demons was phenomenal. The flux of demonic imagery and the human realm was impressive, and the game is constantly twisting and turning as a consequence.

The audio is probably the weakest element. Though I like the soundtrack and the boss battles deliver incredible aggressive, and dangerous vibes, the sound effects are odd and unnecessarily blunt. The groans of the Duchess and the weird noise of each weapon were uncalled for. Every interaction sounds strange, and this could have easily been avoided.

Clumsy controls.

Mid-90s games were clumsy as hell. Sorry We’re Closed matches this idea with its stiff movement and unnecessarily convoluted navigation. What’s more, the inventory system is refined and using any item requires you to open unnecessary menus. This should have been tedious, but it is so incredibly dated that I didn’t care.

The developer has done a great job of incorporating multiple endings into this title. What’s more, there is a scoring system for each chapter and loads of collectables to find. As such, there is plenty to see and do if you wish to experience every finale.

Sorry We’re Closed is an amazing game.

Though I found the story to be a little outlandish, I adored my time with Sorry We’re Closed. The plot is just ridiculous, and the characters are larger than life. Moreover, the Duchess is a bit of a dick and I didn’t know who to back or how the story would twist and turn. This kept me on my toes throughout and made it a great, albeit unusual game to play. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Can you find the path to true love? Remove the curse, help the angels and demons, and see what fate has in store for you and the Duchess.

A Closer Look at Azul Duel

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Azul Duel

Here we take a closer look at Azul Duel.

Out of all the tile-laying artists who have decorated the walls of King Manuel’s palace in Azul, two artists stood out. These two tile-laying masters have been chosen by his majesty to decorate the ceiling of Sintra’s palace. Players will have to show the king, in a tile-laying duel, who is the best among the best artists of all Portugal!


Azul is back and its creative possibilities just went through the roof! The roof of Sintra’s Palace that is! This exciting new offering from Asmodee and the Studio, Next Move Games is called Azul Duel and places confrontation at its core. High up in the hills overlooking Lisbon two players must go head to head to impress the king and create the most stunning vaulted ceilings for Sintra’s palace.

The original Azul released in 2017 by Plan B Games was quick to cement itself as a classic, collecting plenty of awards, including the 2018 Spiel des Jahres award, when it took the gaming world by storm. Since then there have been several iterations of the game including Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra, Summer Pavillion and Queens Garden but none that are exclusively 2 player and none as devilishly cut-throat. 

This intensely fun and competitive reimagining adds extra tactical dimensions to the gameplay, whilst retaining the purity and elegance of the original game. 

New stacking twists add to Azul’s already famed tile-drafting mechanics and new patterned plates give players extra choices on how to build the iconic board offering a unique layout and a unique player experience each time. 

An extra challenge has also been added as players’ beautiful creations must not only impress in the Daytime but also throughout the Night!

A true stand-alone game. A must-have for all fans of two player strategy games. Azul Duel has immense depth and extreme replayability. Easy to learn but difficult to master, Azul Duel delights with countless hours of entertainment. 

With its elegant design and captivating gameplay, Azul Duel offers a fresh take on the popular Azul franchise.

Azul Duel is available now priced around £27.49 and is aimed at players aged 10 and up, and is for 2 players and an average game will take mourned 45 minutes to complete.

A Closer Look at Great Western Trail: El Paso

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Great Western Trail: El Paso

Here we take a closer look at Great Western Trail: El Paso.

Get ready to experience the masterpiece Alexander Pfister’s Great Western Trail in just half the playing time! This exciting new game can be played anywhere thanks to a smaller box, compact components, and a cotton game board, this game is perfect for travel and reassuring Eco-friendly!

Take yourself back to El Paso at the end of the 19th century: Five railroad companies have connected the Sun City to their network and made it a major hub for the cattle trade. Ranchers from the surrounding parts of Texas and Mexico drive their cattle into the city to send them on their long journey to the north, east, and west of the United States.

In Great Western Trail: El Paso, you take on the role of the ranchers of that time and bring your best cattle to El Paso to earn money and victory points. Hire more cowboys, builders, and engineers to get closer to your goals.

Key Actions Include:

Buy cattle to increase the value of your herd!

Construct buildings to unlock more actions!

Participate in the expansion of the railroad and secure the most attractive contracts!

El Paso is mechanically based on its predecessors in the Great Western Trail trilogy. It can serve as a wonderful introduction to the series but also as a perfect game for game nights when there is not enough time for its big brothers!

Great Western Trail: El Paso is available now priced around £28.99 and is aimed at players aged 12 and up. It’s suitable for between 1 and 4 players and each game takes around 60 to 90 minutes.

Review – Tiny Echo

Jorge Castilho
-
0
Review – Tiny Echo

A Dreamy Detour from the Usual

Okay, let me get this out of the way first: Tiny Echo isn’t exactly my kind of game. I usually lean more toward story-heavy adventures, big worlds to get lost in, or games with mechanics that really make you think or stress out a little (in a fun way). But despite it not being my usual cup of tea.
I gotta admit there’s something special here.


Made by Might and Delight (the same folks behind Shelter), Tiny Echo is basically like stepping into a dream world where everything feels soft, slow, and just a bit strange—in a good way. You play as Emi, a little spirit courier whose job is to deliver letters to a bunch of equally mysterious and quirky creatures living in this
hand-drawn, otherworldly land.

A Gentle Pull…

There’s no dialogue, no exposition dump, no flashy tutorials. You just… start walking. Clicking around. Figuring things out. And weirdly enough, it works. The game trusts you to pick things up on your own, and even though it’s super chill, there’s a definite rhythm to it. Deliver a letter, solve a simple environmental puzzle, move to the next oddball creature, rinse and repeat. It’s kinda like meditation disguised as a video game.

The first thing that really grabbed me was the art. Tiny Echo looks like a moving sketchbook filled with strange flora and even stranger fauna. Everything is hand-drawn and animated in this slow, almost floaty way that makes you feel like you’re underwater or drifting through a cloud. It’s not flashy, but it’s absolutely gorgeous
and totally unique. The vibe is strong.

Then there’s the sound. The music is ambient and subtle, mostly made up of soft tones and quiet textures that gently nudge you along without ever getting in your face. It fits the whole “silent dreamland” thing perfectly. The sound design in general is minimal but deliberate—you’ll hear gentle rustling, weird creature noises, and the occasional sleepy chime. Honestly, it’s kind of relaxing in a way that caught me of guard.

… In a Quiet Game

Now, I’ll be real: this kind of ultra-low-conflict, no-stakes gameplay isn’t foreveryone. And again, I’m one of those people. I like a bit more tension or narrative to sink into. There were definitely moments where I was like, “Okay, I get it, let’s move on.” It’s not a long game by any means (I finished it in just a couple sittings),
but the pacing is so mellow that even short sections can feel a bit slow if you’re not fully vibing with it.

But here’s the thing—I get why people love this kind of game. Tiny Echo isn’t about solving puzzles or unraveling some big story twist. It’s about feeling. It’s about slowing down and letting your brain relax. It’s got this poetic energy to it, like it was made more for your heart than your head. And in a gaming landscape full of noise and explosions and complicated systems, that’s honestly refreshing.

So even though it didn’t totally click with me on a personal level, I’ve got a lot of respect for what this game is doing. It’s a beautiful, quiet little experience that knows exactly what it wants to be, and it nails that vibe with confidence and grace.
If you’re looking for something soothing, artsy, and a little oƯbeat, this could be a great way to spend a couple of hours.

Nails the Art of Simplicity

Final verdict? Tiny Echo gets an 8/10 from me. Not because it’s the most exciting thing I’ve played, but because it has a clear identity, executes it beautifully, and reminds us that sometimes games don’t need to be loud or long to leave an impression.

Review: Star Wars Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition

James Refelian
-
0
Review: Star Wars Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition

Harness the Dark Side of Organisation

For any fan of Star Wars, the chance to blend their love for the legendary saga with everyday practicality is something special. Enter the Star Wars Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition, a premium organiser that seamlessly fuses iconic Star Wars aesthetics with modern organisational features. But is it worth joining forces with the dark side for your everyday carry?

Premium Design: Unleash Your Inner Sith Lord with Style

From the moment you set your eyes on the Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition, you immediately feel immersed in the Star Wars universe. Its meticulously crafted exterior is inspired by the iconic villain Darth Vader himself, incorporating subtle yet striking design elements that pay tribute to one of cinema’s most celebrated characters.

The outer casing features an elegantly textured all-black finish reminiscent of Vader’s legendary suit, enhanced by a striking red accent that symbolises his fearsome lightsaber. These design choices are more than superficial; they convey a powerful statement and lend an unmistakably premium feel to the accessory. An embossed Imperial logo tastefully placed on the top adds an exclusive touch, making it a desirable collectable for Star Wars enthusiasts.

Furthermore, this special edition Orbitkey Nest is constructed from a high-quality leatherette, offering a robust yet luxurious feel in your hands. Its sturdy build and fine attention to detail ensure it’s not only attractive but also long-lasting and durable for everyday use.

Cutting-Edge Features: Organise Your Galactic Essentials with Ease

While aesthetics are essential, the true power of the Star Wars Orbitkey Nest v2 lies within its advanced and practical features. Orbitkey has long been celebrated for its thoughtful designs, and this special edition is no exception.

One standout feature is its customisable interior layout. The organiser has movable dividers that let you configure compartments according to your needs. Everything fits neatly inside when storing cables, charging bricks, earphones, pens, or small notebooks. This flexibility makes it ideal for professionals, students, or frequent travellers who need a compact yet spacious solution to their daily clutter.

Another game-changing feature is the built-in wireless charging pad within the organiser’s lid. Offering up to 15W of wireless charging power (if connected to a power supply), your smartphone or wireless earbuds can effortlessly charge while resting atop the Nest. This functionality adds convenience to your busy lifestyle, eliminating the need to carry extra charging accessories around.

Additionally, the lid provides practical storage spaces, featuring a thoughtfully designed elastic pouch perfect for cards, keys, SD cards and other small carry items.

Impressive Performance: Orbitkey Nest Is Reliable in Any Situation

Performance-wise, the Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition consistently delivers exceptional functionality. Its compact size, 240mm x 120mm x 50mm, makes it perfect for commuting, travel, or daily office use. Despite its tiny footprint, it maximises storage efficiency, effortlessly holding essential items without feeling bulky or cumbersome.

The wireless charging pad is reliable, efficient, and compatible with Android and Apple devices. It consistently delivers fast charging, ensuring your gadgets remain topped up even during busy days. The included USB-C cable makes setup quick and easy, offering seamless connectivity wherever you go.

The overall user experience is smooth and intuitive, reflective of Orbitkey’s dedication to detail. The hinge mechanism allows the Nest to open effortlessly, granting immediate access to your belongings while keeping them secure during transport. Even after repeated daily use, the Nest maintains its form and integrity, showcasing remarkable durability. In addition, the lid can be removed entirely if that’s a preferred option.

Why Choose the Orbitkey Nest Darth Vader Edition?

Choosing the Star Wars Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition is not just a purchase; it’s embracing a lifestyle. It merges your passion for Star Wars with practical organisation, allowing you to showcase your fandom stylishly and discreetly in professional settings.

It’s also an exceptional gift for friends, colleagues, or loved ones who are Star Wars fans and with May 4th around the corner, now is the time to grab one for yourself.

Final Thoughts: A Galactic Essential Worth Owning

In conclusion, the Star Wars Orbitkey Nest v2 Darth Vader Edition successfully combines elegant Star Wars-inspired aesthetics with superior functionality, versatility, and performance. Its customisable compartments, efficient wireless charging, sleek design, and robust durability make it a standout choice among organisers.

For any Star Wars enthusiast or anyone looking for a powerful and stylish organiser solution, this Orbitkey Nest is genuinely worth considering. It embodies the legendary spirit of Darth Vader, providing users with an organiser as formidable and iconic as the character himself.

If you’re ready to harness the dark side of the organisation and elevate your daily essentials to galactic levels of efficiency, the Orbitkey Nest Darth Vader Edition is undoubtedly your next great acquisition. Let this remarkable organiser accompany you as you conquer your day, keeping your gear charged, organised, and ready for action at a moment’s notice.

For more information and grab one on clearance before they sell out, you can visit the Orbitkey website – the perfect way to celebrate May 4th!

May the force and supreme organisation, always be with you.

Product provided for review.

1...596061...1,616Page 60 of 1,616