No matter how many controllers hit the market, I still get excited. Furthermore, the more technology advances, the better each device becomes. Accordingly, when PowerA announced the Moga XP-Ultra Controller, I instantly paid attention.
This sexy controller is the first officially licenced wireless pad for use with the Xbox Series S/X. Moreover, it can seamlessly be connected to any Windows 10/11 PC, Android mobile phone, or compatible TV device. Furthermore, the 4-in-1 modular design includes a compact mini-pad with crisp buttons, a concave D-pad, impulse triggers, and more. As such, this market-leading device is versatile as well as being jam-packed with features.
What other features does the Moga XP-Ultra Controller have?
Alongside the excellent design features, you’ll enjoy a full-sized ergonomic grip. This adds built-in rumble motors, two advanced mappable rear buttons, and a mobile gaming clip. The rumble motors create an immersive experience for any game you play. Whether it is the roar of your tyres, the explosion of a bomb, or the crack of a bullet, the rumble feature will bring the game to life. On top of this, the mappable buttons enable you to play like an elite gamer. These tactile inputs can be changed on the fly and will give you an edge over any of your competitors.
Like many of the PowerA and Moga products, this new pad is built to last. However, if there are any issues, you can relax as each controller has a 2-year warranty as standard. Another element that is reassuring is the exceptional 2000 Mah battery. We’ve all been there when we’re playing online and our batteries have died. Well, worry not, as that is a thing of the past! The Moga XP-Ultra Controller offers up to 60 hours of gameplay via Xbox Wireless Protocol or 40 hours on Bluetooth.
Cloud Gaming and the Moga XP-Ultra Controller go hand-in-hand.
There are some exceptional Cloud Gaming controllers on the market. PowerA has an exceptional range, as do Turtle Beach, GameSir, and Nacon. Yet, the Moga XP-Ultra Controller aims to become the leading light of this market. The sturdy gaming clip securely houses your phone while delivering a balanced experience. This excellent design ensures that you’ll make the most of your Game Pass subscription whilst you commute.
If the idea of this interesting controller takes your fancy, there are several online retailers selling it. Available for $129.99, you can order yours from PowerA, Amazon, and other retailers.
If roguelikes, strategy RPGs, and Magic the Gathering deck-building sound appealing to you, Abalon might be for you. Abalon is a roguelike developed by D20Studios, LLC, and published by WhisperGames that offers plenty of content, engaging gameplay, and well-developed lore. Despite the hideous art style, this is a very enjoyable game with great depth that will keep you engaged for hours.
Guide Your Way To Victory
Abalon doesn’t have a story, instead, the stories are what you create through your adventure. You play as a guide, essentially a voice from the heavens. As a guide, you must guide your summoner through dangerous lands and defeat three bosses. Along the way, you will find cards that your summoner can use to cast spells and summon creatures. Furthermore, you may find characters willing to act as guardians along your travels and expand your party further. On top of all this, you may even find hidden lore, which tells you more about the world of Abalon and may also give you hints about the boss’s weaknesses and other enemies.
While Abalon is seemingly lacking in story, it is designed to be played multiple times, with content unlocking as you play more and more of the game. As such, it’s great that there isn’t much story as it means you won’t have to reread story cutscenes whenever you want to start a new adventure. Moreover, the hidden lore is a great way to build the world while providing hints to the player. Overall, I like how this game handled the story as it is non-intrusive.
Will you save the bear?
Goblins, Golems, And Dragons
As stated earlier, the gameplay in Abalon is a mix between Roguelike, Strategy RPG, and Magic The Gathering. However, before beginning your adventure you will need to choose a difficulty and a summoner. Due to the limited difficulty options, I found myself craving a feature where I could customize these options. However, the available options work well enough to make the game as welcoming as possible. Regardless, on your adventure you will encounter random events, like walking into a goblin birthday party or saving a monster. Unfortunately, these events tend to repeat. There were multiple instances where I would run across the same few events. Thankfully, these random events are only a small fraction of the game and would never detract from the actual battles.
When you encounter an enemy in Abalon, the map turns into a grid-based one, similar to the likes of Fire Emblem and Advanced Wars. It is here, where you will take turns using your characters to fight the enemy in a style that is like the aforementioned games. However, unlike those games, in Abalon you can also use cards to summon more allies or even cast spells that deal magic damage. These cards work similarly to how they would in Magic The Gathering where each card has a mana cost. I enjoyed this gameplay style. It’s fun building decks and changing companions to adapt to different circumstances. As a result of the large catalog of cards, this system has a lot of depth, making repeat playthroughs just as enjoyable.
Summoning the tree creature, Treant
A Face Only A Guide Could Love
Abalon looks awful. While the animations and environments look fine enough, the character designs are atrocious. This is because of the garbage art style that looks cheap. I understand that it is an indie game with a smaller budget however, I feel like this could have been handled better. Fortunately, the art style isn’t ugly enough to stop me from enjoying this game. However, that doesn’t excuse the presentation being the weakest element of this game. This is evident in the soundtrack, which sounds like very generic fantasy music. As stated before though, the weak presentation didn’t hinder my enjoyment of the game.
Your youth is supposed to be a time of innocence, discovery, and love. However, with naivety comes fear. Consequently, our minds play tricks on us, and it can be tough to pick out the facts from fiction. Varney Lake is the second instalment of the Pixel Pups series. As such, fans of Mothman 1966 will know what to expect. However, no prior knowledge is required to enjoy this title.
Developed by LCB Game Studio and published by Chorus Worldwide, this is an interactive adventure. Moreover, it has several branching storylines, oodles of mini-games, and some loveable characters. Subsequently, there is romance, childish hi-jinx, and a distinct coming-of-age undertone. However, there is also a sense of wonderment all wrapped up in a pixelated and dated package.
The three friends undertake some interesting adventures.
Varney Lake tells a story of friendship and exploration.
The plot of Varney Lake feels like an 80s adventure film. With bullies, underdogs, and plenty of strange goings on, this tells a captivating story. The “Only Child Club” comprises two cousins, Christine and Doug, and their friend, Jimmy. This trio of youngsters dream of a place of their own and plan outrageous ways to make money. Furthermore, they undertake every task with pride and determination as they work towards an end goal.
Talking of end goals, sadly, Varney Lake’s ending (s) feels rushed and poorly explained. Throughout the short game, you enjoy a handsome filler of background stories and meaningful chit-chat. Yet, the final moments are hurried and not in keeping with the remainder of the tale. Additionally, if you’ve played its predecessor, you’ll realise this is somewhat melancholy by comparison. This isn’t a complaint. However, there are no action sequences and the mini-games are the only thing that breaks up the flow of the game.
Who is this odd-looking chap?
Mini-games.
Jimmy is the master of new games. Accordingly, you get to experience his new creations. These rudimentary ideas use classic dice and card games while adding a new and unique twist. Each of the games is explained to you in the form of a discussion between the group. Amusingly, the cousins rarely know what is happening, and this adds a layer of humour to a dark and occasionally weird plot.
The mini-games are fun and simple, and form the backbone of many of the achievements. As such, completionists will have to master each one if they wish to complete this game. Alongside the money-making ideas, you’ll “enjoy” a spot of fishing. A legendary fish must be caught, and you are the team to make this happen. Sadly, though, the explanation behind this activity was badly explained, and I had zero idea of what I was doing. Therefore, I found it unnecessarily frustrating.
Varney Lake belongs on a 5.25″ floppy disk.
Varney Lake is reminiscent of a game belonging to an IBM computer. Its dated aesthetic is garish, pixelated, and wonderfully brash. Moreover, the text is sharp and basic, and the animation is practically non-existent. Furthermore, the backdrops are simple but effective and the characters lack a modern polish. Yet, I loved the retro style as it matched the slow gameplay and the weird storyline.
Alongside this, the audio is shrill, loud, and obnoxious. With minimal music and irritating sound effects, it could be an 80s cult classic. Disappointingly, though, the developers missed a trick! The lack of music and the reliance on sound effects create a hollow product. Yet, the game was suspenseful and tense. However, some creepy 80s-inspired tunes would have complemented the gameplay while overcoming this issue.
An oppressive world.
Simple controls.
Thanks to the slow-paced and minimalist gameplay, the controls are simple. With limited inputs and no action sequences, you won’t struggle to pick this up. My only complaint is the poorly explained fishing. I desperately wanted to enjoy everything on offer, but despite the tutorial, I still was none the wiser.
Varney Lake takes around 2-3 hours to finish. However, if you wish to find every mini-game and see each ending, you’ll have to replay the game multiple times. On top of this, completionists will struggle unless they can work out the instructions for each money-making scheme. As such, this has limited replay value and longevity.
Varney Lake focuses on a new direction.
Mothman 1966 creates a higher tempo and more upbeat experience. Consequently, Varney Lake is missing these elements from its gameplay. Yet, the slower story and interesting plot twists keep you focused during each short playthrough. Additionally, I loved the unique mini-games and the relationship between the gang. Accordingly, I enjoyed it and I recommend that you buy it here! Will the kids fulfil their dream and earn enough money? Explore your surroundings, play some games, and don’t talk to strangers.
Here’s an odd thought: Dungeon Drafters reminds me a lot of my time in primary school chess club. Yeah, I was a very cool kid. It’s that the feeling of making one wrong move and watching, helplessly, as your opponent swoops in and crushes you. At least in chess you can plead for a do-over. Dungeon Drafters has no mercy for my half-arsed fumbling.
In fact, Dungeon Drafters has a lot of similarities with chess. For one thing, if you play it for more than a few hours at a time, it’ll turn your brain to mush. Don’t let the flashy card collecting fool you, this feels like a puzzle game through and through. It’s a rather well put together one too, bar a few minor irritations. Honestly, the name ‘Dungeon Drafters‘ really doesn’t do it justice.
A World of Fours
When I loaded up Dungeon Drafters, I was greeted with a colourful array of characters to choose from. I pretended to look at all of them but I’d immediatly spotted the giant owl monk. So I always knew I was going to pick him. The chance to see an owl bonk things with a staff was too good to pass up. Before choosing though, we get a quick blast of plot. We’re in the World of Four Corners, which is governed by four archetypes, until a fifth archetype pops up and begins making the place untidy. It’s an okay plot, if a little eerily familiar. Most of it comes through worldbuilding dialogue. It also writes it as ‘World of 4 Corners’, but I can feel the AP Stylebook kicking the back of my seat.
Stylebook aside, Dungeon Drafters has a remarkable amount of polish, from graphics to gameplay. The former comes across nicely in the screenshots. It’s a beautiful art style with an emphasis on bright colours and exaggerated animations. Each of the four corners has its own theme based on location. The explosive barrels and lava pits of Magma City is contrasted with the freezing cold ice of the Glacial Library. Even the card art is fairly good. My favourite is one that turns enemies into frogs. Its image was a frog leaning against a tree, as though questioning its life choices.
The cards pair well with the combat. As the Steam tagline puts it, ‘Magic is cards and cards are magic’. Each card is colour-coded and these colours roughly correspond to the type of spell. Red cards tend to be damage focused, for example, while tan is all about pushing and rooting enemies to the ground. My owl friend was blue and tan focused, so I equipped him with a deck that allowed me to shuffle enemies around at will so I could safely bonk them without worry. There’s a staggering amount of cards and I must admit, opening booster packs and re-arranging my deck did give me some child-like joy.
Draw, Step, Bonk
The other side of combat is a strong positioning focus. When combat starts, we’re given three Action Points, which are used when you move, attack or cast a spell. The battlefield works on a grid system, so you constantly need to make sure you’re in the right place at the right time. This is the puzzle element, as attacking or using the right spell can make or break things. It also encourages unconventional thinking. Pulling off a chain of spells to knock an enemy down a hole or into a trap was immensely satisfying. Each battle does take a long time (I’ll expand on that in a moment) but getting through each one felt like a proper achievement.
That said, this is a game that pulls no punches. It’s punishing. If you die, you lose everything you’ve collected. That’s not so bad, as it encourages weighing up quitting early to keep your packs or forging ahead. A death may just require a deck change. That said, Dungeon Drafters does do a few things that punish a little too much. For one, the UI really isn’t up to snuff. There’s a massive range of effects and abilities and all are given a tiny little symbol. Figuring out what your enemy is about to do requires constant checking of an in-game wiki, which contributes to the long length of each fight.
What doesn’t help is a smattering of infuriating enemies. One group of flying mages liked to throw spells and then teleport just out of reach. I had a low amount of cards in my deck at the time, so I couldn’t catch them. Going back to chess, it felt like you’d reduced someone to just a king and a pawn but they absolutely refused to resign. Others abuse the ‘stealth’ mechanic, where you can’t target them. These elongated battles have a knock-on effect: death is even more punishing. I once beavered away at a boss for a full thirty minutes only for him to pull out an un-dodgeable attack and wipe me out. If this was chess, my opponent would need a colonoscopy to find his king.
In For The Long Run
It took about five hours for Dungeon Drafters to click with me. I’d had a few embarassing deaths, so I played it safe and worked on building up my deck. I swapped out some of the cards I never used and created a red-blue-tan deck. Suddenly, I achieved a state of zen, moving around and commanding the battlefield at will. I beat a boss, showered in the loot and strode into the next area. My ego was promptly flattened. I have about sixteen hours in Dungeon Drafters so far and I’ve barely cracked the surface. I’d need at least three times as much to have a shot at beating it.
The good news though is that Dungeon Drafters is a rogue-lite I’d be happy to put that many hours into. The combat has such depth that while the battles dragged every now and then, it never dulled the satisfaction of a good plan well executed. While the battles do feel artificially stretched at times, Dungeon Drafters is a beautifully polished and deeply intelligent game. Plus it has a staff-wielding owl monk. What more could you want?
When it comes to the most popular forms of entertainment, video games are hard to top. In 2022, the sale of games to an estimated 3.09 billion players worldwide generated an incredible $92.2 billion.
With so many people playing games, developers are constantly creating new, unique games that will entice players to part with their money. Thankfully, the records of which games are the most popular help provide some guidance on what players are looking for.
Some genres sold millions of copies, while others only made a few sales in comparison. Below, we delve into what genre of games have sold the most and which are the most popular among gamers.
Shooter
Shooter games (commonly known as FPS or first-person shooters) are easily the most popular out of all the games produced yearly. As such, it is also the genre with the highest number of major game releases.
Aside from being the highest-selling genre, it is also the genre most preferred across all age groups, which means that it is enjoyed by both young and old players alike—something other genres cannot easily claim.
One of the most popular games in this genre is Call of Duty. With the release of the rebooted Modern Warfare 2 in 2022, the game broke records and became the best-selling game of the year. It generated more than $1 billion in sales after just ten days. It also became the new flagship for the franchise and amassed over eight million sales during its launch.
Action Adventure
The second most popular genre of games is the humble action adventure. As a mix of two genres, these games take players on detailed storylines while providing almost non-stop action and exhilaration.
Games in this genre are predominantly played by younger players (aged between 16 and 34 years old). However, it is also the most popular genre for players between 55 and 64—proving that these games appeal to almost everybody.
The most significant recent release in this genre is God of War Ragnarök. The game features a dynamic storyline and combo-based combat action as a sequel to the best-selling original God of War. The game sold 11 million units in 2022 and is the fastest-selling PlayStation game ever.
Simulation
Simulation games first appeared in 1964 with the release of The Sumerian. Since then, the genre has grown to include everything from life simulators to running your farm or serving customers in a restaurant.
The genre is enjoyed almost equally across all age categories of players and generated an estimated $16 billion in sales in 2022. A considerable part of this was caused by Farming Simulator 2022, which sold more than 1.5 million copies during the first week of its launch.
Another massive contributor to this amount is the legendary Sims game. With the current rendition (the Sims 4) releasing almost endless expansion and content packs, the game has a steady flow of sales from the estimated 40,215 people playing daily.
However, this genre is expected to experience a boom in 2023 due to the anticipated release of Life by You. This simulator, developed alongside Rod Humble, is being launched as the first-ever real competitor to the Sims.
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
As a subgenre of popular strategy games, MOBA games combine the unique challenge of strategy games with the entertainment and thrill of playing with other players online. Games in this genre are enjoyed chiefly by young adults who enjoy having their logic tested.
With many people placing real-world bets on these games, MOBA games are a hub for excitement and adrenaline. Amongst the biggest of these games is League of Legends. With over 152 million players worldwide, this game is a regular in esports tournaments. As of 2023, the game also boasts nine professional leagues for players who take the game to a new level.
League of Legends matches and tournaments are so popular that many people place bets on their outcomes. Just like CasinoSource is another gambling hub, there is a lot of money to be made on these types of games.
Sports
Next on the list of games with the highest sales is the sports genre. These games originated in 1958 when Tennis for Two was invented. Today, they remain one of the highest-selling types of games due to their appeal across all ages of players.
Games like Nintendo Switch Sports, which sold over 8.61 million copies in 2022, are the core of the genre and help players feel actively engaged in the game that they are playing. However, there are others in the genre that far surpass these sales.
Amongst these is the iconic FIFA, whose latest rendition, FIFA 23, broke records by selling over 10.3 million copies within the first week of its launch. Many wonder if this record will be continued in 2023, considering FIFA’s partnership with EA Sports to develop the game has ended.
Racing
Last but not least are the games that put players behind the wheel of the latest cars and on some of the most iconic raceways anywhere in the world. Racing games are popular across all age groups and rank higher than battle royal games like Fortnite and Apex Legends.
While Mario Kart is still the best-selling game in this genre, generating $6.8 billion in revenue singlehandedly, plenty of other games attract players. Among these are the Forza and Gran Turismo series, which appear on Xbox and PlayStation, respectively.
Gran Turismo 7, launched in 2022, was the first new version of the game released by Sony since 2017. After its launch, sales for the franchise surged passed the 90 million copies sold mark and are responsible for generating over $4.8 billion in sales as of the end of 2022.
In today’s rapidly evolving trading landscape, keeping up with technological advances is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and maximise trading success. Technology has transformed the way we trade, providing traders with innovative tools, platforms, and strategies. To navigate this dynamic environment, traders need to adopt a proactive approach to stay informed and continuously upgrade their skills. In this article, we will explore practical tips and strategies to help you keep up with technological advances in trading.Follow Reputable Trading Websites and Blogs.
One of the best ways to stay updated with the latest technological advancements in trading is by following reputable trading websites and blogs. These platforms often publish articles, analyses, and news related to emerging technologies and their impact on the trading industry. By regularly reading and engaging with these sources, you can gain insights into new trading platforms, algorithmic strategies, artificial intelligence tools, and more. Additionally, many trading websites offer educational resources, webinars, and tutorials to enhance your knowledge and understanding of cutting-edge technologies.
Track Economic Updates
As you embrace technological advancements in trading, it is important to stay informed about market events and economic indicators that can impact your strategies. The US economic calendar serves as a valuable resource to track upcoming events, earnings reports, and economic data releases by technology companies. Traders can gain a comprehensive overview of global economic events, allowing them to make informed decisions based on market-moving news and trends, whether they are looking at today’s, tomorrow’s, or this week’s events and levels of importance.
Engage with Influential Traders and Analysts on Social Media
Social media has become a powerful tool for staying connected with industry experts, influential traders, and market analysts. Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social platforms provide a wealth of information and networking opportunities. By following and engaging with professionals in the trading field, you can access real-time updates, expert opinions, and discussions about technological advancements. Many industry leaders share their insights, analyses, and recommended resources through social media channels. This interactive approach allows you to stay informed, gain different perspectives, and learn from the experiences of seasoned traders who embrace technological innovations.
Attend Conferences, Webinars, and Workshops
Conferences, webinars, and workshops focused on trading and technology are excellent opportunities to learn and network with like-minded individuals. These events often feature industry experts, keynote speakers, and panel discussions on various aspects of trading technology. Attending these gatherings exposes you to the latest trends, developments, and emerging technologies in trading. Additionally, you can participate in workshops and training sessions conducted by technology providers, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and platforms. Networking with fellow traders and industry professionals can also provide valuable insights and foster collaboration.
Join Online Trading Communities and Forums
Online trading communities and forums offer an engaging platform to connect with traders worldwide and exchange ideas about technology-driven trading strategies. These communities provide a space for sharing experiences, discussing emerging technologies, and seeking advice from fellow traders. By actively participating in these communities, you can gain insights into new technologies, software applications, and trading algorithms that are being utilised by traders in different markets. Engaging in discussions and asking questions can help you stay updated and expand your knowledge base in the rapidly evolving trading landscape.
To summarise, being ahead of the curve in trading necessitates a proactive strategy in order to keep up with technical changes. Traders should stay educated and consistently improve their abilities by following trustworthy trading websites, communicating with notable traders on social media, attending conferences and webinars, joining online groups, and employing instructional tools. In today’s fast-paced market, it is critical to embrace new technology and comprehend its influence on trading methods.
Music and exercise go hand-in-hand. However, finding the right headphones for the job can be tricky. Do you pick earbuds, earphones, or some over-ear cans? Whichever you select, they have to be comfortable and reliable, all while delivering perfect sound. This is where the Monster DNA Fit Earbuds come into play.
These unbelievably comfortable earbuds are the perfect tool for keen athletes, walkers or those that want an immersive gaming or video experience. Thanks to their Active Noise Cancellation and aptX Lossless Audio, you receive studio-quality sound and no interruption from the outside world. Yet, if you want to be aware of your surroundings, the transparency mode keeps you alert to any dangers.
What’s in the box of the Monster DNA Fit Earbuds?
I’m a sucker for good packaging. Consequently, I fell for the sexy and professional aesthetics. The slender box has a red and black livery as well as key selling points. Furthermore, the innards are well-packaged and it is mostly recyclable.
The Monster DNA Fit Earbuds come in a black or white finish. The simple but striking design is nice to look at and reassuringly snug when in use. Each earbud has a tactile MFB button to activate different modes and receive calls. Moreover, there is a volume rocker switch on the right-sided unit.
The QI-wireless charging case is stunning. Wrapped in black meshed material, it looks and feels great. Additionally, it is hard-wearing and scratch resistant.
A nylon USB-C cable is used to charge the QI-wireless charging case. This robust cable is strong and long enough for everyday use.
Spare silicone tips help to create the perfect fit.
A quick start guide helps you to understand the fundamentals.
Technical aspects.
Whenever I look at sports-specific earbuds, I demand excellent battery life, usability, and water resistance. On top of that, I desire incredible audio that delivers a meaty bass line and an excellent tonal range. Thankfully, the Monster DNA Fit Earbuds deliver this and much, much more.
If you enjoy long runs and trouble-free charging, then look no further. The quick-charge QI-wireless charging case offers up to a 1-hour run time in as little as 15 minutes. Moreover, you’ll get 8+ hours off one charge as well as an additional 30+ hours from the charging case. Subsequently, you are reassured that your earbuds won’t run out of juice mid-training session.
I was amazed by the usability! Once you have charged the earbuds, they’ll connect to your device with ease. Furthermore, thanks to the tactile buttons, you can adjust the volume, activate the ANC or transparency modes, stop or skip a track, or take calls easily. Alongside this, it was simple to change the ear tips, and cleaning the device was a cinch.
Mind-blowing audio.
I have used some incredible earbuds; ACEFAST Crystal Earbuds T8, Seoul Earbuds, and Gravastar Sirius Pro Earbuds to name but a few. However, the Monster DNA Fit Earbuds blew my mind thanks to the ANC and transparency modes. Moreover, the aptX Lossless Audio is a game-changer. The technology adjusts the waves of each track to deliver perfect studio-quality audio. This ensures that there is a healthy range of tones as well as an incredibly punchy bass line. This was amazing when exercising, as you lost no quality, even when pounding the streets or trails.
On top of this, the ANC and transparency options are awesome. With ANC mode activated, you create an immersive scenario that blocks out surrounding noises. Thanks to the 6 in-built microphones, you can forget the outside world and enjoy whatever you are watching or listening to.
Alternatively, you may wish to be aware of your surroundings. With transparency mode on, you let the outside in without compromising the sound quality. This was a phenomenal choice for anyone with kids or pets, or if you spend time exercising on or around busy roads.
Build quality and Bluetooth.
I don’t want to keep adjusting my headphones when exercising. Accordingly; the fitment has to be perfect as well as comfortable. Thanks to the “perfect fitting ear hooks” and the variety of silicone tips, you’ll get a snug fit every time. On top of this, the IPX5 waterproof rating enables you to wear these earbuds, come rain or shine.
The lightweight design is ideal for long-lasting sessions. Furthermore, the sharp design is stylish and futuristic. What’s more, a lack of RGB removes a garish edge that may discourage some users. The device is made from smooth, hardened plastic that feels nice against the skin. Additionally, the ear hooks are robust and the case is strong and pleasant to the eye.
Finally, the advanced Bluetooth technology ensures that the Monster DNA Fit Earbuds are easy to connect to. Moreover, the connection is strong and stable and ideal for a trouble-free experience.
Are the Monster DNA Fit Earbuds worth it?
Retailing at $129.99, this device isn’t pocket change. However, the adage you pay for what you get has never been more correct. Thanks to the amazing build quality, awesome ANC and transparency mode, and incredible battery life, these earbuds won’t disappoint you. On top of this, they are great for wireless communication and can be used for Skype and Zoom calls.
The build quality is one element to consider, but I adored the usability and comfort more. These snug earbuds are perfect for long training sessions. Moreover, the tactile buttons make it easy to skip songs, adjust your volume, or alter each mode on the fly. Consequently, they are amazing and I can easily recommend that you buy them here!
Online gaming connects millions of people, uniting them with the common cause of fun. The growth of technology and the increase in computing power has allowed for amazing developments in the graphics and actual function of gaming.
So, with it becoming better, more accessible, and arguably more fun than ever before, it’s no wonder that millions of people around the world now favour online games as their hobby of choice. So, if you are new to online gaming, we’ve put together a quick beginner’s guide that will help you navigate some of the main parts of the world of online gaming.
MMORPG’s vs Other Genres
Although you might not be familiar with the acronym, you will most likely recognise this genre. One of the most popular types of online gaming is the MMORPG, or massively multiplayer online role-playing game. MMORPGs allow players to create their characters and embark on quests in a wide range of virtual worlds, sharing in their adventures with other players.
MMORPGs often offer a lot of content and depth, and supply you with a near endless amount of hours to play. Players can easily spend hundreds or even thousands of hours in MMORPGs, the good news is that with a lot of games, as you progress and get better, more advanced quests and game play is opened up for you.
No doubt you’ve heard of World of Warcraft you might have even played before, but the great thing about WOW is its updates. The most recent update, Shadowlands, has brought new features and improvements to the long-running MMORPG. Shadowlands introduces a new storyline and location, the eponymous Shadowlands, in which players can explore new zones, interact with new factions, and battle new enemies. The update also adds new features, such as the “Covenant” system, which allows players to align with one of four factions and gain unique abilities and rewards.
Other fun games we’d recommend if this genre interests you are Final Fantasy XIV, and Guild Wars 2, but if MMORPGs are not your thing, there are plenty of other genres to explore.
First-person shooters like the famous Call of Duty, or Overwatch, offer fast-paced, adrenaline fueled action, while strategy games like Starcraft and Age of Empires offer a deeper, more complex gameplay. We’d also recommend racing games like Forza Horizon and Need for Speed for some thrilling high-speed competition.
Online Card Games
Online card games allow players to build and customise their decks, then compete against other players in head-to-head matches, some of our favourite online card games include Hearthstone, Magic: The Gathering Arena, and Legends of Runeterra.
Card games offer a lot of depth and strategy, but they are also accessible and easy to pick up. Unlike MMORPGs, which can require hours of investment, you can jump into a card game and start playing within minutes. A great sub-genre of card games is online casino games. Usually relatively easy to pick up, these card games are super easy to access, and you can play them with a professional casino live dealer. Such experience not only transports you to the world of gambling but also makes you feel as if you’re at a brick-and-mortar casino – all while enjoying the games from the comfort of your own home.
Of course, there are so many different games on offer that you’re going to need to try out a few of them. Just because you don’t like one doesn’t mean you won’t like another and vice versa. There is plenty of choice when it comes to online card games, so make the most of it.
Call of Duty vs Other First-Person Shooters
One of the most popular first-person shooters in the world, as you’re probably aware even if you’re not already a gamer, is Call of Duty. Call of Duty games are famous for their fast-paced, intense gameplay, and the great range of multiplayer modes that allow players to compete against each other.
The latest update for Call of Duty Warzone, Season 3, has introduced new weapons, operators, and some pretty cool changes to the map. One of the most significant changes is the addition of Verdansk ’84, a revamped version of the original map with some new areas to explore and updated graphics. The update has also introduced new game modes, such as “Sticks and Stones” and “Power Grab,” which offer new challenges and gameplay mechanics.
Playing collaborative games online with other people can have many benefits beyond just entertainment. Working with others on a team requires communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills, which can translate to real-life situations. Playing with a group of people has also actually been proven to improve your social skills, and increase empathy and relationship skills.
In addition, online gaming can provide a really positive sense of community and belonging, especially during times of isolation or social distancing.
Call of Duty is not the only game in the genre, however. Other great first-person shooters we’d recommend include Overwatch, Apex Legends, and Rainbow Six Siege. Each of these games offers its own unique gameplay and mechanics, so it is worth trying a few to see which one you prefer. If you are new to the genre, you can always start with a game that has a tutorial or a single-player campaign to help you get used to the controls and mechanics first.
Death is a bit of a taboo. There are few things guaranteed in life, but death is one of them. However, though we know our fate, none of us knows when our time is up. Consequently, we must enjoy every moment and cherish the good times when a loved one passes. This is the ethos behind DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters. It is a strange and surreal experience that blends Voxel graphics with a rich, unusual, and heartwarming plot.
Developed by Sandbloom Studio and published by HandyGames, this is a Voxel adventure title. What’s more, it comprises stealth mechanics and a plethora of puzzles, and it has some amusing and memorable characters at its core. Yet, unlike its peers, it has no concept of combat. Accordingly, you’ll do your best to avoid conflict as you hide in bushes. Furthermore, you’ll use your special powers to manipulate your environment and overcome any obstacles you face.
Push that box and solve the puzzles.
DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters crosses boundaries.
I love it when developers tastefully touch upon sensitive subjects. Thankfully, the team behind DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters has done just that. Their excellent delivery of a plot about the afterlife is touching, rewarding, and absolutely captivating. Moreover, the journey you undertake is interesting, unusual, and filled with bizarre characters.
You control a being that awakens in a strange place. Neither alive nor dead, you begin to explore your surroundings. With dreamlike aesthetic and weird characters, you soon realise that something is off. Furthermore, you are given the title “Lux” and the locals expect you to become their heroic guardian. This role puts you in harm’s way as you battle “The Corruption” while trying to reactive the pillars. Sadly, it is a thankless task, but without your help, this strange afterlife will crumble and your new existence will be lost forevermore.
Drip-fed mechanics and a familiar gameplay loop.
DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters may be a strange game. However, it follows a reassuringly familiar gameplay loop. Additionally, none of the action is overwhelming as new elements are gradually added to the mix. Subsequently, you can enjoy the weird world while focusing on a vast number of puzzles that must be solved.
Lux is armed with a powerful artefact. This strange tool allows him to light up a room, smash wooden structures, move items, and manipulate his surroundings. This key mechanic is at the centre of everything you do. Whether you move boxes, grow mushrooms, or create new pathways, it is essential. However, there are hidden monsters that are revealed by your torch. These cruel entries are the result of “The Corruption” and must be avoided at all costs.
This is where the stealth element comes into play. If you use your torch too much, or you wander into their path, they will attack. Yet, if you stay hidden and crawl through the grass, you’ll avoid their gaze and survive another day.
Sneak around and stay hidden.
So many puzzles.
This surreal world is full of danger. But it is also full of morons as well. The hapless locals get themselves into all sorts of bother. Consequently, you have to clean up their mess while completing your main objective. You’ll help to power a massive antenna, thwart a giant feline and much more. Alongside this, you’ll have to think logically to solve each puzzle.
Many of the problems focus on pressure plates, boxes, and manipulating your surroundings. Though this sounds repetitive, there is enough variety and challenge to keep you entertained. On top of this, avoiding the hidden beasts and interacting with each colourful character adds layers of depth to the action.
DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters is a Voxel masterpiece.
Whenever the words Voxel graphics are uttered, people automatically assume the graphics will be poor. However, DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters bucks this trend as it’s a Voxel masterpiece. The surrounding world is brilliantly sculptured and varied. Furthermore, each character looks unique and vibrant. Alongside this, the cinematic is wonderfully polished and exciting to look at.
These standards are maintained in the incredible audio. Thanks to some brilliant acting and an excellent script, the story will make you laugh and cry. Alongside this, an emotive soundtrack enhances the atmosphere while crazy sound effects add a layer of whimsical magic. In short, the audio reinforces the surreal element while driving the story forward.
Ride the streams and complete the puzzles.
Brilliant controls.
Thanks to the drip-fed mechanics, DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters is exceptionally easy to understand. Furthermore, the simple UI and excellent button layout make this remarkably straightforward. However, it doesn’t undermine the complexities of each puzzle, nor does it simplify the encounters with each invisible creature. Accordingly, it’ll test your resolve and methodical mindset from the off.
Like many titles in this genre, this one has plenty of replay value. Thankfully, there are plenty of hidden documents to find, large spaces to explore, and a massive central hub to call home. Additionally, there are plenty of people to help as well as a decent-sized main campaign. All told, this will keep you entertained for hours.
DE-EXIT – Eternal Matters is a quirky adventure title.
I adored this death-inspired title. Not only does it tackle some sensitive subjects, but it also celebrates what it is to be alive. Alongside this, the writing is excellent, the acting is warm and amusing, and the graphics are brilliant. What’s more, the puzzles are intriguing, and I loved the stealth mechanics. However, the lack of combat will annoy gamers that want a more aggressive experience. This is a minor issue that doesn’t taint the final product. Accordingly, it was fantastic and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you become a guardian and save the day? Use your torch, manipulate your surroundings, and help everyone out.
Ever since cinema was created, space has been a subject that has engrossed spectators and directors alike, representing something that was always somewhat intangible, mystifying yet very real. From documenting humanity’s attempt to reach space itself to epic space operas packed full of real-world allegory, the space genre is captivating and unlike anything else.
This article will examine why humans are so fascinated with space, focusing on the films that made the genre great.
Our Obsession with Space
Humans have an inexplicable relationship with space, representing the final frontier that may never be conquered. There’s something about space and the stars that inspires people to no end, likely because there’s something that we can’t quite grasp, being so close and all-encompassing yet so out of reach. Whether it’s watching movies or playing games, such as the Starburst video slot game, humans are always seeking new ways to consume space-themed content.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Stanley Kubrick’s landmark sci-fi movie, 2001: A Space Odyssey, is seen by genre fanatics as being the single most fantastic space-themed movie of all time, which is lofty praise considering its age and disconnect from modern audiences. An influence on countless films that followed, A Space Odyssey inspired directors to take a look at the stars and add their interpretation of what the future may hold for humanity.
The film tells the story of a mysterious monolith that appears throughout human history, leading the Discovery One team to visit Jupiter, using then-groundbreaking visuals to tell a story that certainly stands the test of time. For any fan of the sci-fi genre, this film is a must-watch and is one of Kubrick’s finest films, which is a view shared by many,
Interstellar was a smash hit when it was first released, and it has aged incredibly over the last decade, being as heart-wrenching and awe-inspiring in equal measure. Many believe that Interstellar is Christopher Nolan’s most excellent film, and it’s hard to disagree with that assessment simply because of how good it is, representing peak cinema that looks incredible and break-taking. With a stand-out cast led by the terrific Matthew McConaughey, playing the astronaut Cooper, you can be sure that Interstellar will keep you entertained.
In short, without ruining the story, the film follows McConaughey’s Cooper as he embarks on an epic journey that will take him through space and time itself, leaving his family behind as he attempts to save humanity from man-made destruction. taking viewers on a time-bending journey, this film is lengthy, but you likely won’t notice because of how engrossing the story is.
Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
An absolute classic that refined the genre of space movies and spawned a franchise that is still producing new content today, Star Wars is as good as it comes, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find anybody who doesn’t have a good thing to say about the original series of films. While the following trilogies split opinion on a much greater level, this space opera perfectly walks the line between intense family-driven drama and cheesy comedic moments. Do we need to tell you anything else about the original Star Wars? Packed full of action and serving as the foundation for everything that came after, this film should be at the top of your bucket list if you somehow haven’t seen it yet
