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Review: Stealth 500 headset

Daniel Waite

-

May 28, 2024

The Stealth 500 headset from Turtle Beach is a great addition to the series. Furthermore, this fine manufacturer has released a 3^rd generation of the Stealth 600 headset. Accordingly, how does this slightly younger sibling compare to its bigger peers? In short, it does an exceptional job! Not only is it affordable at under £80, but it has some impressive audio tech as well.

Alongside this, this device is extremely comfortable and versatile. The lightweight design is impressive, and I loved the introduction of a mobile app. Furthermore, there are preset audio profiles to improve your experience further. Consequently, this is a user-friendly option that packs a massive punch.

What’s in the box of the Stealth 500 headset?

The compact packaging highlights the Xbox accreditation. The robust box is eye-catching, and it can be recycled.
The Stealth 500 headset has a discreet finish. The all-black livery is professional and understated. Moreover, the flip-to-mute microphone streamlines the product.
A USB dongle connects the headset to your Xbox or Series X/S.
A 2.3 ft charging cable enables the headset to be fast-charged.
Learn the basics with the user guide.

Technical aspects.

The Stealth 500 headset is a truly wireless item. Thanks to the 5.2 Bluetooth and the low-latency 2.4GHz connection, you’ll enjoy accurate and seamless connectivity. Moreover, the QuickSwitch technology ensures that you can transition between connections almost instantaneously. Furthermore, the 5.2 Bluetooth feature has a stable connection that draws limited power from the headset. Accordingly, you enjoy longer gaming sessions and perfect audio.

The speakers are powered by impressive 40mm drivers. These are precision-tuned and amplified to improve your listening experience. Additionally, 4 preset audio profiles and up to 10 EQ fields via the Swarm II app are game-changers. Subsequently, if you flit between genres, and you wish to maximise your listening experience, the app will allow you to do so.

Having a powerful battery life is a must. No one wants to run out of juice, especially with a wireless unit. Thankfully, the Stealth 500 headset has a best-in-class 40-hour battery life. If this wasn’t enough, the rapid charge facility gets you back into the game in no time at all. Subsequently, you can enjoy marathon gaming sessions without running out of juice.

Swarm II app and presets.

The Swarm II app allows this headset to stand out from the crowd. PC gamers have long been able to customise their presets and in-game levels. However, console players have lagged, desperately clinging to indifferent gaming profiles. Thankfully, the app for iOS and Android allows you to adjust your settings and save an array of presents. Furthermore, these can be adjusted on the fly and this enables you to maximise the headset’s potential. Alongside this, you can retain the most up-to-date firmware as this can be tackled from the app as well.

Turtle Beach’s impressive presets allow you to get on with the action. Bass Boost, Signature Sound, Treble Boost, and Voice Boost tweak the bass, mids, lows, and high points of the headset. This was great if you wanted to mix things up without jumping into the app. Moreover, if you want to improve your hearing further, you may switch on the Superhuman feature to get a match-winning edge.

Audio quality.

40mm speakers may seem underpowered. However, thanks to the amplified approach, they deliver an impressive bass and range of tones. Additionally, I experienced no cracking, popping, or distortion when the volume was turned up. This was apparent whenever I set custom profiles. Though I played with every layer, the Stealth 500 headset didn’t falter. Furthermore, the low latency and Bluetooth connections were just as good. Accordingly, there was no gameplay lag and I had no issue with in-game communication.

This leads me to the excellent flip-to-mute omnidirectional microphone. This awesome feature improves your online gaming. During testing, my friends never complained about static or echoed conversations. Additionally, there was limited background noise and the sound of my mechanical keyboard didn’t overpower any online lobby.

Build quality.

Gaming headsets get an absolute beating. Consequently, you need them to be robust, easy to maintain, and great to look at. First, the black livery has a professional edge. What’s more, the simple switches and easy-to-find ports ensure that this is user-friendly. I also liked the low-pressure earcups that are perfect for wearers of glasses.

These earcups are made from memory foam material and rarely get hot. This was ideal, as no one wants sweaty ears during lengthy gaming sessions. Furthermore, the material is comfortable against your skin, hard-wearing, and it is easy to clean.

The headband is lightweight and flexible. It has a floating design that reduces the pressure on your skull and your temples. However, it feels snug, so there is no risk of accidents as it falls from your head. Finally, the switches and charging port are secure and a pleasure to use. Accordingly, though it is a mid-price point accessory, it has an up-market feel.

Is the Stealth 500 headset worth it?

Finding an impressive mid-range headset is easier said than done. Sadly, you normally have to compromise. However, the Stealth 500 headset has a different mindset. This impressive unit is versatile, comfortable, and built to last. Furthermore, the free-to-download software ensures that you enjoy a versatile and fully customisable experience. On top of this, you can purchase a version for your PlayStation or PC as well. Accordingly, I love this product and I recommend buying it here!

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

The Stealth 500 headset from Turtle Beach has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! Turtle Beach provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)}

News: City Transport Simulator: Tram

Gaming
News

Daniel Waite

-

May 28, 2024

0

City Transport Simulator: Tram has been announced for Steam and Epic Games Store. This realistic simulation title comes from simulation aficionados Dovetail Games. This phenomenal publisher has recently released Train Simulator Classic 2024. Accordingly, it looks like 2024 is going to be a great year if you love trains, trams, or the sim genre.

Unlike other titles from this publisher, City Transport Simulator: Tram is set in a fictional city. Accordingly, this may disappoint true fans of the tram network. However, this unusual move allows the developer to focus on creative freedom and an ultra-realistic approach. Available in Early Access from the 20^th of June 2024, this title is bound to get transport enthusiasts hot under the collar.

More details on City Transport Simulator: Tram.

City Transport Simulator: Tram has been in development courtesy of ViewApp and published by Dovetail Games. Players assume the role of a tram driver in the city of Tramau. This fictional city is inspired by real-world cities found in southern Germany. Furthermore, they will get set up in one of 3 true-to-life trams. Each has its unique cabs, interiors, modes, and functions. Players will then familiarise themselves with their favourite tram and start picking up and dropping off passengers while sticking to timetables.

Unique to City Transport Simulator: Tram is the new career mode! The city’s tram network requires revival, and it’s the player’s responsibility to manage Tramau’s entire tram operation. After naming and customising their tram operation, they’ll start with limited resources and a single tram. As they progress, they’ll gradually expand their small tram operation into a city-spanning, fully customisable tram network. By earning XP, players can add more trams to their fleet, and customise and edit their timetables. Additionally, you may strategically position tramlines to link up with their stations however they see fit!

The city of Tramau has a rich and storied history that players can experience and explore. Their tram journey will take players past unique points of interest around Tramau. This includes a Baroque-style cathedral, a 14th-century university, and a botanical garden constructed in the 18^th century.

Pre-order!

Though the train and tram genre is niche, its fans are obsessed with the attention to detail and the fantastic rolling stock. A limited number of trams may frustrate, but I’m sure this will expand as DLC is introduced and the game evolves. Consequently, if you fancy undertaking the role of a tram driver in a fictional German-inspired city, then I suggest clicking this link here!

_{(More information on Dovetail Games can be found here!)}

News: Train Simulator Classic 2024

Gaming
News

Daniel Waite

-

May 28, 2024

0

Train Simulator Classic 2024 celebrates 15 years of this epic franchise. Moreover, this addictive title is much loved, and it is the sister franchise to the ever-popular Train Sim World. Its latest edition was released last week with some incredible new features. If you purchase the deluxe edition, you’ll unlock new locos and a 15^th Anniversary Scenario Pack. Accordingly, there is plenty of value for keen train enthusiasts.

Alongside the new edition, gamers can invest in a new subscription service. For £8.99 a month, you may enjoy up to £500 worth of DLC! Furthermore, you will gain access to the base game and all of its addictive gameplay. As such, if you have never played the game, you may try before you fully commit. Moreover, there is a rotation of accessible content to keep things fresh.

More information on Train Simulator Classic 2024.

Train Simulator Classic is the ultimate railway simulator for gamers and rail enthusiasts alike, allowing full immersion into the world of trains in a virtual environment. Today, developer and publisher Dovetail Games celebrate 15 years since Train Simulator Classic was released on Steam with the release of the next iteration – Train Simulator Classic 2024 – now available on the Steam Store. This release includes a free performance update to the base game and a new route collection for players to buy.

Train Simulator Classic 2024 allows rail fans to journey to five countries. You’ll take a tour of over 450 km of rails reaching from the breathtaking scenery of the North Wales coastline in the UK, through Germany, France and Austria to the USA capital by riding the Northeast Corridor. In addition, to commemorate this momentous anniversary, purchasers of the Deluxe Edition will receive the exclusive ‘15^th Anniversary Scenario Pack’. This includes newly created scenarios and 3 iconic locomotives, including British steam legend LNER Peppercorn Class A2 ‘Blue Peter’.

More information on the subscription service.

Dovetail Games also introduces the all-new Train Simulator Classic 2024: Rail Subscription, an optional way for players on Steam to experience the world of Train Simulator Classic. For a competitive monthly price of £8.99, the Rail Subscription provides instant access to the base game along with a selection of curated DLC featuring fan favourites and developer picks. With a total value of over £500 and hundreds of hours of gameplay included. The Rail Subscription is also planned to be regularly updated, so players always have something new to enjoy. This is the perfect way to get started with the ultimate railway hobby.

Over the past 15 years, the popularity of Train Simulator Classic, and its sister product, Train Sim World, has grown to support the reputation of Dovetail Games as the destination developer & publisher for high-quality, realistic simulation products. Train Simulator Classic has more than 700 DLC from developers globally, a thriving community with over 1,000 players driving each day and more than 20,000 creations on Steam Workshop. Train Simulator Classic is a simulation made by rail fans for rail fans.

A game for train enthusiasts.

Train Simulator Classic 2024 is a true simulation experience. Thanks to the ultra-realistic action and the real-to-life rolling stock, this will impress train enthusiasts. Additionally, there are miles upon miles of rails to enjoy. Consequently, if you are new to the franchise, and you adore the Iron Road, then this is the game for you! Train Simulator Classic 2024 is available on Steam at the following prices:

_{Standard Edition: £24.99/$29.99/€29.99.}

_{Deluxe Edition: £34.99/$39.99/€39.99.}

_{Rail Subscription: £8.99 per month.}

_{(More information on Dovetail Games can be found here!)}

Preview: Pathless Woods

Daniel Waite

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May 27, 2024

0

Pathless Woods is a deep moreish title that takes over your life. Moreover, many tasks and endless waves of enemies push you all the way. However, I found a slight imbalance in the gameplay frustrating. This game excels as a survival and crafting experience. Yet, the combat elements are lacklustre. Additionally, there could have been more danger and difficulty during the core quest line. Consequently, though much of the action is fantastic, some bits need tweaking.

This survival adventure title was developed and published by AniYa Games Studio. Furthermore, it can be enjoyed alone or with others online. This freedom to open your world to the wider community was fantastic. But if you are lacking in online friends, fear not. You can enjoy every time-consuming second as you build the base of your dreams or slay an array of bandits and animals.

Pathless Woods tells an outlandish tale.

I love an OTT fantasy story. Luckily, Pathless Woods obliged my desires. This almost outlandish plot unravels a world filled with mystery and strange creatures. Alongside this, some bandits bully the locals. As such, you must explore a vast world whilst restoring order and balance. Additionally, you are free to do as you wish. Subsequently, you can ignore the story and build a vast house. Alternatively, you can cultivate crops, craft new materials, and live a relaxed life.

Whatever approach you choose, it is great fun with friends or alone. Moreover, the anime aesthetic and the lush world were a pleasure to look at and explore. What’s more, the developer has done a fantastic job of creating a progression system and a nice blend of survival mechanics. Yet, it is this latter element that tests you throughout. With water, health, food, and a spirit meter to manage, it can be tough to survive. Alongside this, you must stay healthy to bolster your physique. After all, a hungry hero is a weak hero.

Classic mechanics.

You’ll feel right at home if you are familiar with the genre. The classic survival elements complement the day/night cycle. Additionally, balancing an all-out attack with your stamina bar can be testing. However, once you get to grips with the almost mindless combat, you needn’t worry. This was one of my major complaints! Pathless Woods doesn’t test your combat prowess. Whether you are using a ranged or melee weapon, it is very easy. Yes, the stamina bar adds a layer of difficulty, but this is quickly overcome. Accordingly, killing bandits or defending your base was too easy and disappointingly basic.

Thankfully, the combat pales into insignificance when you consider the building mechanics and the farming. These elements are some of the best I’ve experienced, and I loved the variety of materials and the tools on offer. Consequently, if you want to build a massive castle, you may. However, if you want to create a simple community, you can do this as well. The level of detail and the custom options for each building block were spectacular. Accordingly, this will get those creative juices flowing.

Time to grind.

Pathless Woods is a grind-fest and a time sink. This won’t surprise veteran gamers. However, if you are new to the genre, you’ll waste hours crafting new tools and gathering pieces of wood, stone, flint, and other materials. Furthermore, you must consider the weather as this damages your tools and exposure to the elements destroys your crafting stations. Subsequently, you must plan wisely if you wish to maximise your time.

Thankfully, the developers aren’t cruel, as they have incorporated NPC helpers to alleviate much of the strain. These workers will follow your instructions, defend your base, and grind for resources. Though it isn’t perfect, they help remove some of the effort as you focus on bigger and better things.

Pathless Woods is imbalanced.

My biggest complaint about Pathless Woods is the gameplay imbalance. The combat is so lacklustre that it is painfully disappointing. I was desperate to be pushed during each encounter, but this never happened. Sadly, some minor dodging and plenty of spamming of the mouse overcame every obstacle.

I’m not asking for a Souls-like experience. That would destroy a relaxing and enjoyable title. Instead, it would have been nice to have a layer of risk vs reward. In its current state, Pathless Woods feels more like a survival-building title rather than a full-blown adventure game.

A vibrant and attractive world.

I adored the blend of vibrant colours and pastel tones. The large world has an anime influence that is great to observe. Its larger-than-life creatures are juxtaposed with the fantasy monsters. Additionally, the bizarre structures have a religious undertone that supports the strange lore. Though I liked the character models, the animation was basic, and the combat was too easy to analyse. Subsequently, this undermines an already weak component of the game.

The fantasy edge is represented beautifully within the audio. The airy tunes flit between upbeat and lighthearted moments and sinister and dramatic layers. The expansive range of songs works perfectly with the day/night cycle and the ever-changing weather. Accordingly, you knew when danger was lurking or when you could relax and enjoy the moment.

Complex controls.

Pathless Woods is undoubtedly complex. Furthermore, there are mountains of resources to gather, plenty of materials to create and loads of tools to build. Consequently, the control system takes some getting used to. Moreover, the UI has layers of sub-menus that can be overwhelming at first. However, if you follow the tutorial and the hints, you will master this in no time.

Despite the combat issues, this will keep you playing for hours. There are countless side quests to complete, a central plot to explore, and a vast world to walk across. Furthermore, you are free to do as much or as little as you please. Therefore, the world is your oyster.

Pathless Woods is a great survival experience.

I hope the combat issues get resolved. If some complexity and difficulty are added to the mix, then Pathless Woods will be phenomenal. As it is, this is a great survival experience that is interesting, fresh, and attractive to the eye. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Can you discover the hidden mysteries? Explore a vast world, build a wonderful base, and stay alive.

Review: The Tower on the Borderland

Phant0m

-

May 27, 2024

0

This game has multiple ideas that I did not like and I could say that it all combined to an experience that I did not like. These are my thoughts on… The Tower on the Borderland

Visuals

First thing you’ll notice in this game is a set of visuals that are inspired by the PS1 era of video games although very interesting to look at at times it came off as bland and uninteresting. But I will admit that character designs were pretty solid. The mc looked the way I would imagine them to. And the monsters… well let’s just say on top of their interesting design they also had the interesting idea to include… the monsters.. genitalia 💀. These at least made me interested in fighting these quite random looking beasts. Areas and Atmospheres in this game are absolutely the pinnacle of why I think the game doesn’t have an amazing design. Most of the areas look similar or give off the same vibe boring me after just the first 30 minutes. Not only that but the colorset does not impress at all. Most things look mundane or dull. And looking at that through the entire runtime was disappointing even if it made sense for the atmosphere you’re in.

Gameplay

Now when I mentioned ideas I didn’t like it starts here. To start the combat is super unsatisfying, not only did I feel unrewarded it also made me feel super weak against my enemies due to the absolutely horrible controls. I have never played something that I struggled with more controls wise than this. I still got confused after a whole hour of gameplay, I personally played on keyboard and mouse, so I couldn’t tell you if it was easier on the controller since I ran into technical issues beforehand. Which has nothing to do with the game. Now if you’re wondering if there was anything else to make the game more interesting… not really. In my experience I just ran straight through not even wondering if there was anything else to do, but I never felt encouraged either, meaning that most of my gameplay was me spamming one to three buttons upon fighting enemies. Hit. Dodge and run, and possibly find the occasional upgrade. There is a final note I have to mention and that’s the fact that souls like aren’t my favorite; so maybe this would be better for those who do

Story/Characters/Music?

Now usually this isn’t too important in a souls like experience, sadly this would be my only saving Grace of a souls like and this sadly didn’t deliver even what I may have been hoping for. On the one hand you have the interesting mystery of what the hell is even going on? I had this question several times and on the other hand you have the answers, answers that didn’t make me happy( It’s hard to not spoil it considering the short runtime) but it was easily forgettable and baffling at times. I mean it seriously felt like grasping at straws at its finest, because most events happen so loosely that it was hard to follow, and maybe a replay can change my mind but I truly doubt it. Also since most of the music felt non existent I’ll avoid it for now.

Performance

On a high note the game performed pretty well. Didn’t experience any screen tearing nor frame drops. Everything not only ran smoothly but it also all worked right out of the gate meaning you should be ok to play this!

Verdict

If you’re wondering, I don’t recommend this game. It’s hard to like something that combined many elements of things you don’t like, but when that happens and you fail those multiple elements, it just makes the experience so much worse. I give the game a 4.5/10. It’s got some greatness in atmosphere and its performance is rock solid. This seems like a game that would be nice, but there is tons of ironing out to do before moving on to the next project. Those were my thoughts on The Tower on the Borderland! Thx For Reading! Keep doing great things! You’re good at them. Bye 🙂

Side Notes

This review was done on a computer using an RX 6750 XT Power color and an Intel i5 13400F. This review does NOT have any details about controller support.

Review: Sherwood Extreme

Saim Khurshid

-

May 26, 2024

0

It is hard to put into words how Sherwood Extreme made me feel. The more I think about it, the more I am perplexed. It gave me fun yet died the moment I looked away. Like a dream interrupted at the climax, It’s all too underwhelming or more accurately, it felt like giving giving someone consent but they just put you on standby.

Launch Trailer| Sherwood Extreme

Never the less, like a dentist checking on broken teeth of people who wake others mid dream, let us see if anything can be salvaged from Sherwood Extreme.

Shooty Shooty Sherwood

The gameplay is nothing too unique. Within the ragdoll-y, comedy physics reminiscent of Totally Accurate Battle Simulator, you play as a Robin Hood look-alike running down hordes of enemies.

With a bow, arrows and shield that can be upgraded as you progress, you have to complete a simple task: Don’t die, kill the boss at the end and take the final loot. Each mission takes less than 2 minutes to finish and there are only 7 of them.

Then what do you do after that? You ask. Well…Here is where the rug gets pulled.

Sherwood-ly That’s Not All!

Once you finish the 7 missions, you unlock a Horde mode. In this mode, as it sounds, you will fight horde after horde till you die. The map is a giant tree house that you traverse while fighting.

All your upgrades from the levels do not enter the horde mode as Sherwood Extreme had the amazing idea(Sarcasm as required) of giving you basic stuff and allowing a single upgrade per 2 rounds of survival.

The game also allows you to team up with friends and play this with strategy and all that nonsense. Which is all well and good if not for one glaring problem.

It is too Easy!

Child’s Play

The Horde mood starts with you at the top of a wooden tower surrounded by many perches that you can glide or zip along with ease. The enemies arrive from four gates on the four sides of the tower. So as the fight begins, they are on the ground and you are in the skies. Not to mention your character’s weapon of choice is an arrow. In other words. ‘I have the high ground, Anakin!’

I went round after round after round just dropping hell on the enemies and they could not touch me. By the time they even came close to reaching me, only one or two would be left alive and even they would be dead before they stuck. I could only imagine how easy it would get with friends.

In my first run, I had crossed the double-digit number for hordes and in the end I decided to just go to the floor and kill them there. Even then I died because I tried to jump between a rock and a tree, getting stuck via a glitch.

Done before it started

So like I said, it was like an interrupted dream. A rug pulled from beneath my feet.

My conclusion for Sherwood Extreme is that it is a grand concept but much less a game. The combat is fluid, the enemies, albeit easy, are very fun to fight and the map design for the very little there was, was very fun to navigate.

In Short, this labour of love is in need of more time in the oven of Love!

Review: Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds

Daniel Waite

-

May 26, 2024

0

Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds are a fantastic audio device. Furthermore, these lightweight earbuds are surprisingly affordable and are packed with impressive high-end audio tech. As such, you won’t break the bank or ruin your favourite podcast or song.

If you are looking for a versatile product that has a phenomenal battery life, exceptional Bluetooth, and a crystal-clear microphone for video and voice calls, then this is the perfect device. Moreover, it is designed with sports in mind. Accordingly, if you love to run, walk, or cycle, then these headphones must be on your radar.

What’s in the box of the Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds?

The compact packaging is robust and eye-catching. Furthermore, it can be recycled.
The Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds are tiny. These lightweight earbuds have a rubberised finish that is flexible and easy to maintain.
The hard-wearing charging case protects and charges the earbuds.
Charge the device with the USB-C cable.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Sports earbuds are more niche than their mainstream peers. Consequently, I have different expectations whenever I test a pair. I look for exceptional audio quality, impressive battery life, easy maintenance, and a strong and stable connection. Secondary to this, I want a crystal clear microphone and easy-to-master controls. Thankfully, the Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds deliver across the board.

The 5.4 Bluetooth functionality is incredible. The connection is rapid and stable and the power draw on your phone and the earbuds is minimal. Subsequently, this improves battery life and the quality of music and phone calls. A high battery life is essential if you are walking, cycling, or running long distances. There is nothing worse than running out of juice mid-session. As such, I was impressed with the battery life on offer. During testing, I enjoyed up to 10 hours of usage per charge. Alongside this, the charging case offers 3 separate rapid charge boosts. As such, I could use these earbuds between 32 and 36 hours before charging the case.

Phone calls.

Though the ability to take phone calls is not essential, it is a nice feature to have. Thanks to the AI-noise cancelling technology, these earbuds eliminate around 80% of external environmental sounds. This feature is ideal if you work in a noisy location, or you take a phone call when exercising. Either way, you’ll improve every conversation as unwanted noises are eliminated.

The Bluetooth 5.4 technology removes unfortunate static and uncomfortable popping and echoed sounds. The result is a clearer conversation with a professional edge. Consequently, these are ideal if you use video calling for work meetings.

Audio quality of the Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds.

Open-ear technology is usually frowned upon. As a rule, people tend to pick up bone-conducting headphones such as the Nank Runner Diver 2. Alternatively, in-ear earbuds are a popular choice. However, I love this relatively new idea. The exceptional safety features and the ability to maintain your ear health are 2 key selling points. Moreover, they are comfortable to wear during extended gaming or exercise sessions.

What impressed me was the fine audio quality. The over-ear speakers offer an impressive range of tones. Additionally, the bass line is powerful without being too overbearing. I enjoyed the quality even when the volume was cranked up. No matter how much I pushed the earbuds, the audio didn’t crack. This was particularly impressive as I could hear every surrounding noise. Subsequently, I always felt safe whenever I traversed busy roads.

Build quality.

The audio was fantastic because of the 16.2mm diaphragm drives. This is almost 3 times bigger than other earbuds. Consequently, you are getting a lot of bang for your buck. Every element of the Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds was well constructed. The comfortable ear hooks are flexible and easy to clean. What’s more, they grip your ears with no risk of slipping or falling off. Moreover, the in-built touchpads were responsive and streamlined. As such, they add little weight but improve usability.

Finally, the charging case is a robust device that keeps the earbuds safe and fully charged. The sleek black pebble design is discreet and the lack of buttons and switches delivers a refined look. Accordingly, this is perfect if you want a compact device to chuck in your gym bag or laptop case.

Are the Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds worth it?

Sports earbuds sit in an awkward category. Furthermore, things become complicated because of the AI technology and the low-latency gaming connection. Thankfully, though, the Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds excel at the basics. Not only are they rugged and secure to wear, they are easy to maintain and they deliver incredible audio. Alongside this, they are user-friendly and they have an exceptional battery life. Consequently, they are impressive, especially when you consider the price point. Therefore, I recommend buying them here!

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

The Nank OE Mix Open-Ear earbuds have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! Nank provided a sample for a free and unbiased review!)}

Review: So Chill Mini Fridge

Reviews
Tech

Daniel Waite

-

May 25, 2024

0

The So Chill Mini Fridge is a compact and useful accessory for your gaming arena. Moreover, it is the perfect tool if you are a beauty queen, or you want to keep drinks cool during a picnic. Whatever your reason for purchasing this compact device, you will not be disappointed by the price point or the quality.

This fridge is available in teal and black. I chose the teal option as I liked the striking colour and the attractive chrome accents. This lightweight product is perfect if you have a gaming cave or a beauty den. Alternatively, maybe you love camping, or you enjoy days at the beach. Either way, this fridge will keep up to 6 330 ml cans wonderfully cold. However, if you love makeup, this low-power cooler will keep your pride and joy perfectly cool on uncomfortably hot days.

What’s in the box of the So Chill Mini Fridge?

The packaging is recyclable and vibrant. It highlights key selling points, and it keeps the fridge safe in transit.
The So Chill Mini Fridge is surprisingly lightweight. However, it is hard-wearing and it will take some rough and tumble.
Power the device with the USB-A to a figure of 8 cable.
Customise your product with the loud stickers.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The So Chill Mini Fridge is effectively a portable cooling box. As such, don’t expect this to quickly chill your drinks. Instead, you’ll need to leave considerable time between storing and consuming your favourite beverage. To get the best results, I found it was easier to pre-chill my cans and swap them in the fridge. This process helps to reduce the ambient temperature whilst speeding up the cooling process.

I adored the mobile nature of this product. Thanks to the USB charging, this device can travel with you without any hassle. Accordingly, if you have a decent power bank or a USB in-car charger, you can keep the party going. Thankfully, if you run out of juice, the well-insulated material keeps the fridge cooler for longer. Subsequently, it is ideal if you are at the beach for extended periods, or you need to charge your power bank.

The low power consumption enables decent power banks to work for hours. This was particularly impressive if you have a trickle-charge solar panel system. When combined with a 4W solar panel, the So Chill Mini Fridge runs for hours. As such, though it won’t be a go-to solution for many people, this versatile device can be charged in many ways.

Build quality.

This fridge costs less than £40. Accordingly, I set my expectations reasonably low. However, I was shocked by the sturdy build quality and the pleasantly vibrant teal finish. Moreover, the chrome handle adds a luxurious finish that catches your eye. Weighing under 2kg, you can transport this product without breaking a sweat. Additionally, it is easy to move even when it is loaded to the brim.

The door has a fine layer of insulation hidden inside the carcass. Furthermore, there is a handy perspex window to keep an eye on your stock levels. This was a nice feature as it prevents you from unnecessarily opening the door and changing the ambient temperature. Finally, a small tray and rack are included to increase the storage capacity. These extra elements were sturdy and helpful. However, the door storage solution has minimal uses and this can be removed if you so wish.

Is the So Chill Mini Fridge worth it?

If you are a gamer who loves to hide in their cave for hours on end, then this fridge will be perfect. You can store your food and drinks in one handy location. What’s more, you needn’t worry about room-temperature beverages or melted chocolate. Alternatively, it will keep your drinks chilled as you relax on the beach. As such, this affordable product is ideal for many uses and I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on So Chill can be found here!)}

The So Chill Auto Mini Fridge has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! So Chill provided a sample for a free and unbiased review!)}

Review: Kudzu

Khloe Turner

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May 25, 2024

0

A new game for an old system

Yes, you read the heading right.

Kudzu is Chris Totten’s passion project born from his college experience, where he worked on assignments surrounded by the nefarious kudzu plant. This game was specifically made with the intention to be played on the original Game Boy itself (and yes, it works)! It is much akin to old-school Zelda and Metroid titles; Kudzu has ditched linearity and introduced more . . . well . . . plants.

Players can play Kudzu on the original Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Super Game Boy, Game Boy Pocket, and the Game Boy Advance, thanks to Totten’s partnership with Mega Cat Studios for physical cartridge production. It can also be purchased on the Nintendo Switch digitally. The game was released on April 5th, 2024.

Kudzu: “The World-Eating Plant”

You play as Max, a gardener apprentice to Master Zoen. Max and colleagues live at a research base with the intention of studying the true properties of the invasive plant named kudzu.

Outside of Max's house at the kudzu research campsite

Zoen, however, has gone missing after mysteriously wandering into the dangerous Kudzu Fields. Max drinks some tea and gathers some “kudzu jelly” and then sets out to find his master. He finds Zoen’s machete abandoned in the fields, equips it, and continues on his bizarre journey. Along the way, he receives help from various colleagues and creatures, collects mushrooms, and slashes the kudzu overgrowth.

There are plentiful monstrosities within the kudzu-covered world, including snakes, large insects, and hostile flowers. In order to recover health from the damage delt by enemies, Max must consume jars of “kudzu jelly.” Kudzu has healing properties after all.

In total, Max travels to eight different areas: Kuzdu Fields, The Gardens, The Estate, The Forest, and more. Kudzu is understood to be non-linear, as Max can go wherever he pleases at any point in time. This requires some back-tracking and cut-throughs of previously explored areas to get to the next location.

A botanical adventure

The game itself is straightforward, and perfectly encapsulates the aesthetic of the Game Boy. Players can select different artistic borders surrounding their game; the game’s booklet looks exactly like how they did in the past, giving you tips, demonstrating the gameplay and mechanics, as well as showcasing Kudzu‘s artwork and character biographies! The classic Game Boy green coloration is perfect, being that the game is all about botany.

Kudzu‘s sprites are quite large, which is different from the sprite sizes in Zelda and “Metroidvania” titles. While this makes it easier to see all the details, it does make each location feel more compact and cramped. Max is only able to equip short-ranged weapons, like a hoe or a rake. If it were not for the weird sprite scaling, ranged weapons could work very well. It would have aided in certain circumstances, like attacking the annoying, spitting “kudzu blossoms”.

On the topic of weaponry, or farm tools, Max is able to use a machete, a garden hoe, a rake, gardening boots, among other items. Each item has slightly different abilities. The boots, for example, allow Max to stomp over brambles and rough terrain without taking damage. Unfortunately, Max himself never upgrades. Max’s base abilities remain the same and all he can really do is walk around and swing a weapon.

The music is another strength of Kudzu, composed by Brandon Ellis (a.k.a. CityFires). Personally, I am often burnt out by the desire to replicate outdated graphics . . . but I never get enough of old-school chiptune. Kudzu‘s soundtrack gives off vibes similar to the soundtrack of Mega Man: tenor and a bit ominous, yet full of energy and thrill. Each area theme is unique and emanates a sense of cautious yet curious adventure. It is the kind of music I would take a bit to listen thoughtfully to before I actually started playing the game.

The questionable controls

While Kudzu has many strengths, there are several fatal flaws in regards to its mechanics. The controls are a bit janky (and I suppose a lot of older titles are just like that).

Place of the first boss fight in the game Kudzu

There were too many times that I just . . . lost control of Max? He would move in random directions that I did not initiate, or my machete would lag several milliseconds before it actually swung. Certain enemies seem to have respawned spontaneously, especially after exiting the pause menu screen. Due to these delays and errors, Max’s attacks occasionally became futile, and players may get hit by an enemy for no reason other than Max suddenly running into it. This made the game frustrating. Kudzu is a tad difficult already, but these performance issues made Max’s deaths very much inevitable.

I died more than anticipated. If players had not saved the game in a while, you can get set back quite a bit. To save one’s data, Max must go inside tents that are scattered throughout the map and interact with the radio. There are lots of tents to save at, yet I struggled lots and had to redo areas over again.

The pause menu screen does not operate smoothly at all. Navigating the screen would sometimes just . . . not work. Clicking left or right to hover over items and options would not register at times, and the clicker became “stuck.” Also, I swear some of my kudzu jelly disappeared even when I had not used it.

The syncing between the gameplay screen and the pause menu was not very accurate either. Sometimes, the amount of health Max appeared to have on the pause menu was not shown in-game, or it said something different. For example, the pause menu said that Max had 25/100 health left, but in-game it would briefly show I had 50/100 health remaining. Due to the miscommunication, this caused me to die much faster and more frequently.

Final thoughts

The concept of Kudzu is amazing and creative, and for sure appeals to fans of the classic Game Boy. Who makes new games for old consoles? Chris Totten sure does!

The soundtrack is full of energetic bops; the character art is nostalgically wonderful; the Game Boy format is neat; and incorporating the kudzu plant as the main object of significance is super cool. As someone who lives in a location that is overrun by the dreaded kudzu, I found the overgrowth relatable and humorous.

The gripes are pretty major, however. The imprecise control schemes and the somewhat unvaried gameplay becomes tedious and boring. Redoing the same areas over and over, the struggle to acquire area maps, and the eventual repetitive nature of the game are definite downsides.

Regardless, I still recommend Kudzu. I applaud the small team of developers for working so hard towards this passion project, and taking the time to thoughtfully research and artistically craft such unique ideas into an old medium.

Review: Genshin Impact decorative light

Daniel Waite

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May 24, 2024

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Genshin Impact has been revolutionary since its release on mobile devices and consoles. Consequently, I’m not surprised that gaming paraphernalia is now available. Today I’m looking at the eye-catching Genshin Impact decorative light. This striking accessory is the perfect addition to your workstation. Moreover, its neon effect won’t overpower your set-up.

This solid unit is ideal if you want a bit of a wow factor for your console or PC. Additionally, its rechargeable battery and user-friendly approach make it a plug-and-play dream. If you are like me, you won’t want untidy cables ruining your streamlined desktop. Well, thankfully, this lamp can be charged and left unplugged for hours on end. The result is a vibrant nod to an excellent title and a head-turning workspace.

Technical aspects of the Genshin Impact decorative light.

The Genshin Impact decorative light is vibrant without being obnoxious. The neon effect lighting delivers a warm hue that illuminates a small area. Moreover, the simple on/off switch is hidden in the body of the lamp. Accordingly, this has a streamlined finish that enhances any man cave or gaming arena.

The lamp is powered by a rechargeable battery. This powerful, yet compact unit lasts ages, and it can be charged in no time at all. I accidentally left the light on overnight, and it was still burning bright when I woke up. Now, you may be concerned about a fire risk or unwanted heat damage. However, fear not as the lamp runs pretty cold. Accordingly, I wasn’t concerned about my forgetfulness. Additionally, thanks to the quick charge facility, it mattered not if I let the battery run low.

Build quality.

Neamedia Icons creates some fantastic gaming products. Furthermore, they utilise some of the biggest brands to create attractive and desirable items. Thankfully, the Genshin Impact decorative light doesn’t buck this trend. The game logo is on point and fans will lose their minds over the attention to detail. If you happen to not be a fan, you may still admire the wonderful colour palette and the clean lines.

What impressed me most was the solid build quality. This sturdy unit cannot be taken apart. Consequently, this reduces the risk of unwanted damage or lost parts. Moreover, it delivers a more professional and authentic finish that streamers and gaming fans will adore.

The item is charged using the well-placed USB-C port. This rugged charging port will take some rough-housing. Furthermore, as it is hidden towards the bottom of the lamp, it doesn’t undermine the colourful finish. Finally, the aforementioned on/off switch hides in plain sight. This simple-to-use switch is tactile, hard-wearing, and easy to find. As such, the Genshin Impact decorative light is attractive and user-friendly.

Is the Genshin Impact decorative light worth it?

Decorating your gaming space is a personal choice. However, if you love unusual items that will turn someone’s head, then I recommend this product. I love the gentle hue and the impressive battery life. Moreover, this solid unit is attractive and robust. As such, it looks fantastic on a shelf, by your console or next to your monitor. This lamp is a bargain as it is available for under €30. Consequently, I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on Neamedia Icons can be found here!)}

The Genshin Impact decorative light has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold award.

_{(Full disclosure! Neamedia Icons provided a sample for a free and unbiased review!)}