Review: Death Howl

Luke Hedingham
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Review: Death Howl

Looking for a loved one in a dangerous and unknown location/world is a narrative we’ve all seen many times, whether in action, adventure, or horror games, it’s certainly nothing new.

Death Howl is the latest game I’ve played which follows this plot. You play as Ro, a hunter from a small tribe who ventures into forgotten lands to overcome the grief of her recently deceased son, guided by voices from another world she transcends into the world of spirits with the hopes of bringing him back.

To get to him she’ll come across many different spirits which will help guide her and enemies which she’ll have to overcome in order to get closer to her son’s voice.

Cards will be your greatest allies, you’ll collect and make over 160 cards all having different effects such as afflicting poison, moving around the grid, and launching fireballs. Whatever cards you pick, you’ll be able to pick the ones according to your playstyle, allowing for multiple different combinations.

Progression was painfully difficult and frustrating, even more so than having to fight the same enemies constantly to get somewhere.

Game progression is something that can be a breeze or a real challenge, annoying and frustrating or even both, which is certainly the way you’ll feel after playing Death Howl for a few hours unless you’re a veteran at turn-based deck-building games which I unfortunately wasn’t, hence why I struggled quite a bit at both defeating enemies and progressing through the areas.

Going into this I actually never played a deck building game before which blends a few different elements together, so it was all rather new to me. The first few hours of the game I was getting used to the mechanics, what different cards do, and how to efficiently deal with enemies through positioning and timing. I actually found the battles to be quite fun, being able to play new cards and face different enemies in different areas, along with the unique way the battles actually took place, resembling that of a game of chess, moving around the board to either defend or attack, or just to create distance between you and your enemies.

All was good until I actually started to progress and face enemies which had more health, dealt more damage, and were just overall harder to kill. It wasn’t fun I can tell you that much, I can’t count the amount of times I had to fight the same enemies until I was finally able to progress, with RNG being the main cause of losing so many battles. If I didn’t get the most effective cards against specific enemies or when wanting to play on the defense due to low health, then most times it would lead to death. Luckily it’s roguelike so you don’t actually have to lose all of your progress and start over, which was a slight compensation for the constant death cycle I found myself falling into.

One thing I wasn’t fond of were the enemies always respawning whenever using a sacred grove to restore health, being able to heal was actually hard to come by, there were no items that could replenish it so it left me with either teleporting to the sacred groves and having to fight previously defeated enemies again, or by keeping and using the card “Ox’s Heart” which gave you 5 health, this was RNG dependent so you just really had to hope that luck was on your side, or in your hand. You weren’t able to teleport when it was equipped, so it left me with having to sacrifice one which just made battles and progressing even more of a challenge. It is worth noting that the Ox’s heart can only be used in one area, so the other areas will be a lot more difficult.

Enemies always respawning did have some benefits though, one of which was that you could use them for material farming. You kill enemies, you teleport and use the sacred grove to respawn them all, you kill them again and then repeat. This farming strategy allowed for more cards to be crafted a lot quicker which allowed you to enhance your decks and progress a lot easier. It was a rather long, boring, and repetitive process, but the results were clear for themselves. If you find yourself struggling to progress or simply want to make more of a specific card, then that’s the route to go.

Review: GIGASWORD

Daniel Waite
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Review: GIGASWORD

GIGASWORD instantly caught my eye. It is dated, weird, and it combines multiple genres to great effect. On top of this, the storytelling is fascinating, and I enjoyed many elements of this tight, fun, and well-constructed indie affair. However, if you are not a fan of Metroidvania games, you’ll probably want to give this a miss.

This action-adventure Metroidvania was developed by Studio Hybrid and published by Akupara Games. It is a single-player title that has a fine Mega Drive edge. Additionally, each area is a mini-puzzle in itself. Accordingly, your grey matter will be tested repeatedly as you try to fight, jump, and overcome every problem you face.

GIGASWORD highlights man’s greed.

We can never be truly happy with what we have. Moreover, if someone or something has more than us, we want to take it by force. Humans are greedy, selfish, and out for number one. Sadly, GIGASWORD highlights our flaws from the beginning.

The city of Thoenhart is plagued by famine and disease. There is a huge divide in wealth, and people are dying. However, there is a solution hiding in plain sight. The Nocturne are guarding the God Crystal, Gnosis, and the humans want it. This crystal is said to bring wealth and prosperity to whoever holds it. Consequently, the army is raised, and the Nocturne are slain. This turn of events unleashes an evil power, and one human must wield the GIGASWORD and save the day.

A game of balance and puzzles.

The story is as outlandish and out there as you’d expect from an old-school-inspired adventure. Yet, it is the fine mechanics and puzzles that make this shine. Additionally, the classic Metroidvania elements of new skills and abilities to open up otherwise unobtainable levels are familiar but well considered.

If you’ve tackled a Metroidvania game, those mechanics will not surprise you. However, it is the balance of the GIGASWORD that adds originality and a high degree of difficulty. If you hold this powerful tool, you will not be able to jump correctly, and you will move at a snail’s pace. Subsequently, you must stab the sword into the ground and find ways to overcome your obstacles and be reunited with your weapon.

This core idea was brilliant, frustrating, and pretty difficult to work with. The difficulty wasn’t off the chart, but it will make you think as you try to solve every problem. On top of this, there are the normal fights, big encounters, and secrets to discover. Each of these elements helps to add depth and keep you on your toes.

GIGASWORD is brilliantly dated.

GIGASWORD was surprisingly large with many maze-like rooms and loads of twists and turns. Each area has an earthy colour palette, and this was complemented by the pixelated visuals. Although I appreciate that this will not be for everyone, I like the dated style and the walk down memory lane. Thankfully, the animation was smooth, and there were limited bugs or glitches. As such, the developer has done a nice job with the final product.

The audio is as daunting, dramatic, and impressive as you’d expect. The music plays on regardless of the situation. Alongside this, there are some incredibly basic but effective sound effects to match every action. I wasn’t particularly blown away by the choice of sound effects, but they worked well and added depth to the sound profile.

Tight controls.

I was relieved once I mastered the basics. Luckily, the control setup was straightforward to learn, and the layout was easy to understand. Furthermore, the controls are tight, responsive, and perfect when trying to navigate tight and deadly platforms.

With many secrets, loads of monsters, and plenty of abilities and skills to unlock, GIGASWORD has loads to keep you playing. If you adore unusual puzzles, old-school gaming, and interesting but basic combat, this will have you hooked.

GIGASWORD is a great indie game.

I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. However, the core mechanics were good, and the story was touching and cruel. Moreover, the world is confusing, challenging, but a joy to explore. If you want to test your grey matter and destroy an army of selfish humans, I recommend buying this here! Can you seek revenge and save the day? Master the GIGASWORD, solve the puzzles, and retrieve the Gnosis.

Is The Goonies 2 Finally Going to Happen?

Christopher John
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Is The Goonies 2 Finally Going to Happen?

The Goonies is one of the most iconic films ever to not have a sequel. Countless other memorable offerings from the 1980s led to follow-ups, but the 1985 adventure from Richard Donner strangely never had a second instalment.

Despite being a standalone film that’s now 40 years old, The Goonies is still talked about and known in modern popular culture. Reports suggest that the long wait for a sequel could finally be over, with the original actors keen to reunite for another adventure.

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Various Rumours of a Sequel Over the Years

Along with being hugely commercially successful when it was released and raking in $125 million against a $19 million budget, The Goonies is also up there with the greatest cult classics of all time. The picture was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2017, and it continues to attract new generations of fans to this day.

Part of the enduring success of The Goonies is thanks to the various related offerings that have helped promote the film. There have been numerous video games over the years, with the first title for the Commodore 64 one of the earliest film crossovers into gaming. The Goonies games are still going strong in today’s gaming market, and The Goonies Megaways is a much-loved jackpot casino slot. It was so well-loved that it led to the recent sequel, The Goonies 2: Quest for Treasure.

Due to The Goonies having remained in the mainstream over all these years, there have always been talks of a potential sequel. There have been various occasions when a sequel has almost come to pass, but has ultimately never happened.

Reports That a Film is in Development

There are now credible reports that a sequel to The Goonies could finally be on the cards. Steven Spielberg is producing the film, and Warner Bros. has hired Potsy Ponciroli to write the script. That’s all that’s been reported so far, but it’s the most promising update we’ve ever had that a sequel could finally be on the way.

Some other good news is that the main actors from the original picture have expressed an interest in returning to their roles after all this time. Josh Brolin, Sean Astin, Corey Feldman, Ke Huy Quan, and Martha Plimpton were the stars of the original, and they have all stated their desire to return. It would be fantastic to see all of these people back together in the film universe that kickstarted their careers.

The most exciting prospect about The Goonies 2 is that it may serve as a reboot to the franchise and lead to other sequels as well. In the modern age of streaming, films often lead to spinoff series and games that help expand the franchise. Doing this could help maintain the status of The Goonies in popular culture for many more decades to come.

After a four-decade-long wait, fans of The Goonies may be finally getting the sequel they’ve always wanted. It will be amazing to see the original cast members returning to their iconic roles in a new adventure.

Review: Lumo 2

Daniel Waite
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Review: Lumo 2

Lumo 2 had been in the making forever. Its 2016 predecessor was a hit, and lovers of its quirky charms have had their patience tested. However, the wait is over as the sequel was released in October. I’m a little late to the party, but better late than never when we’re talking about classic puzzle titles.

This isometric puzzler was developed by Triple Eh? and published by Numskull Games. It is a single-player experience where interlocked rooms form a maze of intricate and confusing moments. Furthermore, there are platforming elements to work with as you explore a 3D world from an isometric viewpoint. This was a bit of an issue for me, as this approach caused endless platforming problems. However, if you can work through it, you’ll enjoy a charming, retro title that has a modern aesthetic.

Lumo 2 is a love letter to a better era.

Controversial or not, the 90s were the best gaming era! Lumo 2 and the team behind it must agree with this, as the game is heavily influenced by the 8 and 16-bit era. If you are in your 60s, 50s, or 40s, you’ll adore this modern romp down memory lane. The gameplay, ideas, plot, and protagonist scream old-school madness.

You control a wizard who wishes to solve every puzzle in the strange world in which he resides. Collectables, portals, and an array of mind-bending puzzles await those who are brave enough to tackle this experience. Each of the 100 rooms offers testing moments. Furthermore, there are 3 mini-games to master. This odd twist on the perspective helped to take a break from the isometric hell.

Excellent puzzles.

If you love to test your mind, reflexes, and patience, this will make you smile. Moreover, if you enjoyed the original, Lumo 2 will make you smile even more. The puzzles are genuinely tough and will push the best gamers to their limits. Thankfully, though, there is a gentle learning curve that breaks you into the action.

I adore the shift in perspective as the mini-games move you to a whole new existence. The Space Harrier-inspired action was a particular highlight. Moreover, the twist of floppy disks and cassettes was in keeping with the old-school theme. Although some of the puzzles were challenging, every room was rewarding. If you ever enjoyed The Crystal Maze, you’ll love the buzz of solving each self-contained problem before moving to the next.

Lumo 2 has a clean edge.

If the isometric viewpoint wasn’t so annoying, Lumo 2 would be an absolute joy to play! Visually, it is fantastic. Clean lines, interesting stage design, multi-layered rooms, and smooth animation ensure you are entertained throughout. Additionally, the mini-games add a layer of energy and fun to the action. Sadly, that isometric viewpoint frustrates and undermines the gameplay. This was unfortunate, but not enough to ruin the overall finish.

The audio matches the retro theme. Elements of synth music match the 80s and 90s mindset. Furthermore, the songs match each colourful environment. The developer has incorporated audio cues to support the onscreen action. The result is a soundscape that feels alive and in sync with the game.

Excellent controls.

Platforming games can be testing. Lumo 2 teases you with its camera angles and somewhat tight platforming. However, the well-considered and easy to master controls keep you from smashing your gamepad. Although you’ll understand the mechanics, the puzzles and mini-games will punish you if you make errors.

Finding every collectable and navigating each room is no mean feat. Consequently, this has plenty of replay value and longevity. Yes, you need patience, but most games from this genre pose that issue. As such, veteran gamers will love the balance of tongue-in-cheek moments and testing gameplay.

Lumo 2 is a wonderful sequel.

As I age, my patience begins to dwindle. Thankfully, Lumo 2 sparked my love for this genre and gave me a much-needed boost. I adore the retro edge, the incredible puzzles, and the fun mini-games. Moreover, the silly elements will appeal to older gamers. Accordingly, this is a wonderful sequel, and I recommend buying it here! Can you unlock 100 mysterious rooms? Take a breath, think outside of the box, and take in the old-school appeal.

Review: Little Rocket Lab

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Little Rocket Lab

If Stardew Valley had a dumper baby with Satisfactory that grew up to get a worthless college degree, that baby’s best friend would be Little Rocket Lab. That is the exact whiplash you will get from playing this game.

Developed by Teenage Astronauts and published by No More Robots, Little Rocket Lab is a cosy factory builder with Stardew Valley-esque town mechanics and a genuine story.

Normally, when you are introduced to a cosy game, something warm and huggable greets you on the screen. Not this one… Mother dead, baby sent away!… Wow!

This narrative cold open immediately signals that Little Rocket Lab is willing to explore heavier emotional territory than most games in the genre. It gives the player a reason to care before they ever place their first conveyor belt, grounding the mechanical grind in personal stakes from the very beginning.

Rocket Pace

The gameplay of Little Rocket Lab feels just like a 2D Satisfactory. From resource gathering to landscape cleaning, every action results in getting automation and autonomation.

Progression is deliberately paced, encouraging experimentation without punishing inefficiency. Early mistakes feel like learning opportunities rather than setbacks, which keeps momentum high and frustration low.

That is not to say that the Stardew Valley genes are lost. The characters in Little Rocket Lab are very engaging and fun to talk to. Even though they don’t usually have much to say, when they do, it is worth engaging.

At multiple times during my playthrough, I had somehow forgotten I was playing a game and just became determined to help this town to its feet.

The satisfaction of getting that big project done and seeing it put to use is next level.

I like it!

There’s a special kind of magic when a game makes optimisation feel personal. Little Rocket Lab’s tone is warmly earnest without ever becoming cloying.

The isometric art style is crisp and expressive, striking a balance between charm and clarity. It makes both the town and your factory a pleasure to inhabit. Characters are lightly sketched but endearing, offering just enough personality to make their needs feel worth fulfilling.

The audio design deserves credit as well, subtly reinforcing the mood without overpowering the experience. Gentle background music and understated sound effects make long building sessions feel calm rather than exhausting.

The story may be gentle, but it’s thoughtfully integrated. Rather than interrupting gameplay, narrative beats are woven directly into your progression, reinforcing the sense that rebuilding infrastructure and rebuilding lives are part of the same process.

Rocket Game

For newcomers to factory builders, Little Rocket Lab is an excellent introduction. Systems are layered gradually, tutorials are intuitive, and complexity is there for players who want to push deeper without overwhelming those who don’t.

For genre veterans, the satisfaction comes not from infinite scale, but from refinement, building something that fits harmoniously within its environment.

The joy lies in small efficiencies, elegant layouts, and thoughtful placement. Where each improvement feels intentional and earned, rewarding patience and creativity rather than sheer expansion or unchecked mechanical excess.

Developed by Teenage Astronauts and published by No More Robots, Little Rocket Lab stands out not by reinventing the factory builder, but by reframing it. It proves that conveyor belts and character arcs don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

They can reinforce one another.

For players who enjoy thoughtful progression, cosy aesthetics, and the quiet joy of making things work better, Little Rocket Lab is an easy recommendation. It’s a game that understands that optimisation doesn’t have to be cold.

And that sometimes, the most satisfying systems are the ones tied to the heart.

Creality K2 3D Printer Combo Offers for Christmas

Andrew Edney
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Creality K2 3D Printer Combo Offers for Christmas

It’s not too late to score epic Christmas deals on 3D printers! These deals are only available until December 26th, so if you’re looking for last-minute deals for shoppers, look no further than Creality. They’re offering epic savings on their new and raved-about K2 3D printer combos (includes 4-bay CFS multi-color system). In fact, they can get the standard K2 combo for the lowest price ever – just $549!

The Deals at Creality.com:

  • K2 Combo: Deal price $549! (MSRP: $699) The lowest price ever! 
  • K2 Pro Combo: Deal price $999 (MSRP: $1049) Save $50! 
  • K2 Plus Combo: Deal price $1,199 (MSRP: $1,499) Save $300!

Creality’s K2 3D printers take everything people hate about 3D printing, like slow speeds, constant tinkering, failed prints, etc., and basically deletes it. Boasting a true 600 mm/s CoreXY engine, auto-calibration, and optional AI camera, you can hit print and trust it will result in a quality print.  Perfect for first-time makers or pros running a print farm, K2 makes high-speed, pro-grade printing feel simple, consistent, and ridiculously fun, print after print with fewer headaches and surprises.

Review: Satisfactory

Daniel Waite
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Review: Satisfactory

I have an extremely busy life. As such, I put off playing Satisfactory when I saw it on PC. I desperately wanted to play it, but I knew that it would take over my life! Automation, exploration, combat, base building, and survival elements combine to deliver an addictive game that absorbs your life. Roll on November 2025, and I have no way to escape this drug addiction of a game. I’d love to say I’m desperate for a way out, but I’m not. I’m proud to say I’m hooked, and I don’t think there is a way to break the habit.

Coffee Stain has developed and published this incredible adventure survival affair. It can be enjoyed alone or with others. Unsurprisingly, this is brilliant either way. However, I had a much better time when I was messing around with my friends. Additionally, as there are plenty of resources to gather, teamwork reduces the sense of grind. Therefore, if you can team up with like-minded individuals, you’ll have a phenomenal time.

Satisfactory has a tongue-in-cheek mindset.

I love it when a game has wisecracking robots and a dry sense of humour. Luckily, Satisfactory delivers this by the bucketload. ADA is your robot assistant who loves to tell odd jokes and deliver wildly sarcastic one-liners. However, this AI companion is also deadly serious. They are owned by the megacorporation FICSIT Inc. This huge powerhouse hires faceless Pioneers to complete their work.

This is where you step in. You are tasked with rebuilding humanity on the huge planet called MASSAGE 2(B-B)b. It may not be the catchiest of names, but it matters not. What matters are the resources and your ability to gather them. As a Pioneer, you are responsible for every task you encounter. Killing aliens, exploring the planet, finding new elements, and mining resources. Furthermore, you must build bases, manage your energy supply, and build never-ending conveyor belts.

Incredible progression.

Working through the early stages is a walk in the park. After all, the game gives you a pleasant tutorial that highlights the fundamentals. After this, you are left to your own devices. This is where Satisfactory unfolds nicely. With a large array of resources to find and many ways to shift your goods, you are free to do as you wish. Furthermore, you’ll need to create plenty of new items and buildings if you are to progress.

The progression system focuses on tiered levels. As each is unlocked, you are given new buildings to play with. These items may seem irrelevant, but they are not. Each one offers a new way to gather resources, store items, or shift goods. Additionally, there are quality of life improvements that reduce grind, increase output, and make things much easier. Subsequently, you must learn to balance your production chain to get the best out of every situation.

Exploration is key.

Moving around the giant planet can seem unnerving. After all, dying is never fun, and failure isn’t really an option. Yet, something is rewarding about finding new areas, new elements, and new ground to build more factories. More factories = more resources, and more resources = higher-tiered items. Accordingly, you must venture into the deep to unlock new resources and move through the game.

Satisfactory looks great.

Offering 3 different performance modes was a great move. You can select 60 FPS, 40 FPS (120 Hz or higher displays), or 30 FPS. This approach lets gamers focus on what graphical performance they want. I stuck with the middle ground, and this worked well for me. Although 40 FPS may seem low to some people, I was happy with the consistent frame rate and lack of issues.

Visually, Satisfactory looks great. There were occasional bugs, and building parts clipped the scenery regularly. However, I didn’t care. It didn’t impact the game, and in most cases, it made it easier to get what you wanted done. Purists may get a little annoyed, but they’ll have to suck it up. Ultimately, this game is absolutely huge and a few minor issues for a huge range of buildings, moving parts, and resources is a small price to pay.

The audio combines weird ambient sounds with alien noises. Alongside this, you’ll enjoy an array of dry and sarcastic messages from your friendly AI companion. This odd juxtaposition shouldn’t have worked, but it did. The result is an amusing soundscape that captures the sense of despair and the alien world perfectly.

Incredible controls.

A PC to console port can be messy. Thankfully, Satisfactory works incredibly well with a gamepad. Yes, there is a bit of a learning curve, and you will fail a lot. However, this is part of the joy of this genre. Managing resources, building new structures, and manufacturing products can be done manually or with the help of automation. Either way, you will not struggle with the controls or the UI.

Replay value and longevity are off the charts. If you hate people, you could spend the rest of your life alone on this alien world and never get bored. Alternatively, you could team up with your friends and build mega structures that take over the alien world. Your conveyor belts will snake from area to area as you ship vast quantities of materials to the megacorporation. It is time-consuming but unbelievably addictive.

Satisfactory is the game that keeps giving.

The developer has not finished with Satisfactory. It is a game that epitomises the idea of a game that keeps giving. New ideas, new resources, new events, and much more. This conveyor belt of ideas helps to keep you coming back for more. Accordingly, this will get under your skin, and you will lose your life to its crazy alien ways. It is brilliant, and I recommend getting your copy here! Can you keep the corporation happy? Dig for resources, build crazy structures and let technology carry the load. 

Review: Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro

Daniel Waite
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Review: Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro

Home security is big business. However, people with limited technical knowledge worry that upgrading their home to the latest digital security will be expensive and challenging. I’ve covered many Reolink products, and today I have the chance to tackle the newest item from Ring. The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro is a fantastic device that takes this impressive company to the next level. Yet, it isn’t without its drawbacks, as you must have a subscription service, and there is no Micro SD slot. Accordingly, you must use Cloud storage to maximise potential.

This may be a deal breaker if you are on a budget. However, you pay for what you get and with 3 subscription options available, there is something for everyone. I went for the 30-day free trial to see how I got on. I’m impressed with the excellent UI, easy to master system, and the reliable nature of the product. However, I’m not sure I’d enjoy paying for it when Reolink offer a free service with very similar elements.

This is a conundrum that many people will have to solve. Where this device excels from other cameras and doorbell products is the quality, excellent customer service, and amazing picture quality. Additionally, the ability to react to visitors in real time was a big bonus.

What’s in the box of the Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro?

  • The box is compact, interesting, and robust. Additionally, it is recyclable.
  • The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro is a discreet device. I like the colourway and the streamlined appearance. Furthermore, it can easily be wired and mounted to any surface.
  • A power cable and adapters are provided to power the doorbell.
  • The mounting kit is a joy to use.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Having a wired-only product can feel a little restrictive. I prefer this approach as you never have to worry about batteries or charging the product. Moreover, you can connect the device with a PoE cable for a high-reliability option. Furthermore, you can wire this into existing doorbell wiring if you don’t fancy changing too much from a previous Ring product. As such, this is a relatively easy-to-install product.

High-quality footage is a must. We have all seen those grainy images that appear to have been taken using a potato. Thankfully, theRing Wired Video Doorbell Pro has an impressive 4K resolution and 10x digital zoom to capture every fine detail. Alongside this, there is Low-Light Sight for near perfect nighttime vision. This is important as other cameras suffer in low light and poor conditions.

If you live in a high footfall area, you won’t want your doorbell notifying you every 3 seconds. Luckily, the 3D motion detection is super-accurate and can be tailored to your needs. You can mark out areas that you want covered, and the doorbell will ignore the rest. This mapping creates highly secure locations and removes the unwanted noise.

Finally, 2-way audio helps you to communicate with whoever visits your property. We’ve all had that moment where an important parcel is about to be delivered. You can’t afford for it to be taken away, so this handy feature allows you to talk to the delivery person.

Usability.

The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro is an incredibly easy-to-use product. The combination of a streamlined design and an impressive app ensures that you are always in control. Additionally, it is compatible with Alexa. This will be a win for many digital homes. Despite this huge positive, I would have liked to see Google Assistant included in this list. Sadly, this wasn’t to be, and lovers of digital tech will have to stick with Alexa for a streamlined platform.

Setting the doorbell up was a breeze. Inexperienced users may wish to seek advice, but technically competent individuals will have the doorbell mounted and working in no time at all. I sat somewhere in the middle and easily fitted it and had it powered in under an hour. The app takes a little longer to master, but this wasn’t an issue. Handy know-how guides talk you through the basics, and a little trial and error goes a long way.

Build quality.

The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro has a professional and pleasant finish. I like the Satin Nickel aluminium faceplate and the clear and sizeable lens. The rectangular design may be considered dated, but it is simple, clean, and easy to work with. Moreover, it isn’t too big, and it won’t look out of place on a classic or modern building.

This device is IP65 rated for normal weather conditions. Additionally, it is dust-tight to prevent unwanted damage to internal components. Despite its impressive rating, I wouldn’t want to expose it to continual water. Consequently, having it slightly covered will aid longevity.

Is the Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro worth it?

This latest generation Ring product is more expensive than its predecessors. However, it ups the ante. The resolution is double the previous model, and the build quality is market-leading. Furthermore, the AI tech for mapping and the 2-way audio were great. I’m not sold on the subscription service, but you get a lot of support and an impressive app if you subscribe. Accordingly, this is a fantastic product with a generational leap in performance measures and camera quality. Furthermore, it increases security and peace of mind, and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Ring can be found here!)

The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Roswell glasses

Daniel Waite
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Review: Roswell glasses

The Roswell glasses from GUNNAR will make fans of Alienware excited. This interesting collaboration combines 2 huge names in the gaming stratosphere. Alienware have continually delivered incredible products for high-end gamers. Whereas GUNNAR consistently offer market-leading products that improve eye health, concentration, and reaction speeds.

These glasses sit in GUNNAR’s epic signature level. This guarantees extra protective coating, polycarbonate lenses, and anti-reflective lens properties. The result is a durable set of glasses that is ideal for gamers and streamers. Alongside this, they have a fashion edge that is a little unusual. Although GUNNAR delivers unusual ideas, this collaboration takes things to the next level. 

The case has a soft and quilted design that looks and feels amazing. Furthermore, the glasses combine interesting Easter eggs with a clean and streamlined design. The result is an eye-catching product that is bound to turn heads.

What’s in the box of the Roswell glasses?

  • The packaging is very understated and simple to look at. However, it is robust and recyclable.
  • The Roswell glasses use an amber-tinted lens. Furthermore, they have an aviator style and strong multi-barrel hinges to increase durability.
  • A soft case and microfibre cloth are provided.

Technical aspects.

The Roswell glasses are ideal if you wish to reduce harmful UV and blue light. Thankfully, the amber-tinted lens offers 100% UV and 65% blue light protection. This has an incredible effect on your eye health. No longer will your eyes dry out when enjoying marathon gaming sessions. Furthermore, the pleasant amber tint reduces the harsh nature of contrasting tones. 

This design helps to reduce headaches, itchy eyes, and that sense of fatigue. Additionally, you’ll notice a difference when you are working or gaming. Your performance levels will improve because you no longer feel drained. Moreover, your reaction times are reduced, and this helps when playing FPS games. The result is increased productivity and a better position on the leaderboard.

The G-shield lens protection helps to keep your lenses cleaner for longer. Furthermore, there is a scratch-resistant hard coat as well as an oleophobic layer. If you love to stream, your audience will enjoy the anti-reflective film. This reduces unwanted glare from lights or your monitor.

Build quality.

If you want a durable, comfortable, and hard-wearing pair of gaming glasses, the Roswell glasses should be on your radar. The aviator style offers a large lens coverage while retaining a classic look. Moreover, the slightly chunky frame is perfect if you want to make a statement. I love the blue and black frame and arms, and the Alienware logo. 

If you are a little rough with your glasses, you’ll love the durable multi-barrel hinges. The arms are flexible, and this helps to fit an array of head shapes and sizes. The anti-scratch hard coat is perfect if you are clumsy. I dropped these multiple times, and the lenses never got damaged. 

I like the soft case, but I can see this being a sticking point for some people. Consequently, if you want something mainstream, the accessories may not be your cup of tea. However, if you love to make a statement, the Roswell glasses will do just that

Are the Roswell glasses worth it?

I’m amazed that a large number of gamers do not use gaming glasses. A small outlay can improve your gaming experience and eye health considerably. GUNNAR never disappoint with their build quality, interesting collaborations, and market-leading tech. Accordingly, if you want to reduce headaches, improve productivity, and rock some of the funkiest glasses around, I recommend buying a pair here!

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Roswell glasses from GUNNAR have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Black Ops 7 Boosting By Boostmatch. A Conservative Overview

Christopher John
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Black Ops 7 Boosting By Boostmatch. A Conservative Overview

Competitive shooters keep expanding their ladders and their seasonal reward logic. Black Ops 7 will likely follow this pattern with ranked pressure, long weapon tracks, and time-limited content that pushes players into a steady grind. Players who enjoy the gunplay can still feel trapped by the volume of tasks, so a structured Black Ops 7 boosting market will exist for one simple reason – time and skill rarely align inside one weekly schedule.

Defining Black Ops 7 Boosting Between Time Delegation And Competitive Identity

Boosting in modern games means letting another player help you reach progress that would take too long alone. The concept sits between labor and leisure, where the booster performs the intensive portion and the client receives the validated result. This shared performance model forms a kind of proxy identity, because the account record reflects achievement that came through substituted play. 

Applied to Black Ops 7, this suggests a service designed to compress long progression arcs, while keeping the account’s public profile aligned with the player’s intended competitive position.

Historical Precedents Inside The Call Of Duty Competitive Space

Delegating performance did not begin with modern platforms. Long before today’s polished storefronts, players searched for ways to borrow skill or borrow time, and the online era converted that instinct into organized paid progress. 

The Call Of Duty ecosystem has always been fertile ground for this dynamic. Ranked ladders, mastery challenges, and seasonal resets create repeated demand for fast progression. A title like Black Ops 7, with its expected multi-mode structure and constant live-service updates, will encourage the same market rhythm that earlier competitive shooters already revealed.

The Economic Infrastructure Behind Black Ops 7 Boosting

Modern boosting platforms operate as compact digital economies built on automation, reputation, and controlled order logistics. Orders move through systems that match clients with skilled operators, standardize pricing logic, and track execution across dashboards. Trust acts as a functional currency inside this environment, because the client’s willingness to share access depends on a predictable structure that reduces uncertainty. 

For Black Ops 7, the economic logic will center on services with clear measurable outcomes, since the market consistently rewards packages that display obvious value and stable delivery.

A Practical Typology Of Black Ops 7 Boosting Services

Boosting changes form across genres, yet shooters consistently focus on two core goals – rank outcomes and unlock acceleration. 

A coherent https://boostmatch.gg/call-of-duty/bo7 catalog would therefore emphasize these categories:

  • Ranked progress and seasonal tier climbs;
  • Win packages for controlled match outcomes;
  • Weapon leveling for attachment access;
  • Camo and mastery unlock tracks;
  • Battle pass progression;
  • Challenge, mission, or achievement completion.

This list reflects how shooter clients typically define value, because the reward structure of the game itself highlights rank icons, weapon power, and visible cosmetics as the central signals of status.

Operational Mechanics Of A Black Ops 7 Order

Boosting operates through careful coordination among the client, the booster, and the platform that governs assignment and tracking. Orders begin with explicit goals and then pass through automated allocation. Safety methods, including VPN usage, scheduled time windows, and consistent in-order communication, support controlled execution and reduce account risk. 

A streamlined Boostmatch experience for Black Ops 7 can follow a stable sequence:

  • Select the target rank or the target unlock;
  • Define access rules and preferred play windows;
  • Receive a verified Black Ops 7 booster assignment;
  • Track progress through the order interface;
  • Conclude the service with a final status review.

Such procedural clarity is crucial in competitive FPS contexts, where players often judge a platform by its operational discipline rather than by promotional language.

The Psychodynamics Of Delegated Achievement In BO7

Boosting introduces a distinct emotional tension. The result feels personally owned, yet the effort identity feels shared, which often creates a mixture of pride and relief. This psychological pattern explains why the market persists across competitive genres, since it delivers the satisfaction of completion while removing the fatigue associated with repetitive play. 

In Black Ops 7, this effect can be amplified by rapid meta shifts and ranked volatility. Players may want a stable ladder position early in a season, then return to casual modes with their desired weapons or cosmetics already secured.

Ethical Ambiguities And The Rules Environment

Boosting exists inside a persistent gray zone. Some communities view it as paid assistance that reflects the realities of adult schedules, while others interpret it as a distortion of competitive integrity. Game rules often forbid account sharing, enforcement varies, and the practice survives due to demand, operational concealment, and unclear legal framing in most jurisdictions. 

For a Black Ops 7 client, the practical takeaway is to prioritize discretion, transparent service scope, and providers that treat safety as the central operational principle.

Trust Architecture And Why Boostmatch Fits Black Ops 7

Trust enables the entire marketplace. Players give access and payment to people they never meet, so platforms must produce safety through verified identities, stable payment flows, and visible tracking tools. This semi-automated trust architecture shifts reliance away from personal relationships and toward system design. 

The Boostmatch model is presented as a structural reform approach that emphasizes verified boosters, tracked deals, and direct progress visibility for the client. The framework also highlights the reduction of hidden fees and unstable support patterns that historically damaged confidence in older markets. 

When applied to Black Ops 7, this suggests a platform stance rooted in operational accountability rather than impulsive speed.

What A Strong Black Ops 7 Boostmatch Catalog Should Communicate

A mature BO7 section should present categories that align tightly with how players describe their goals. Overly abstract bundles risk confusion, while direct labels improve conversion and reduce post-order friction.

A conservative and coherent catalog design can include:

  • Standard rank boosting for steady seasonal progress
  • Premium rank options for strict deadline targets
  • Weapon leveling sets tied to current meta loadouts
  • Camo and mastery pathways for collectors
  • Battle pass completion aligned with seasonal timelines
  • Duo formats for players who prefer assisted play with a visible partner

This framing keeps the store intelligible to both competitive grinders and time-limited players who chiefly want a reliable path to cosmetic and statistical status.

Final Thoughts

Black Ops 7 boost will likely intensify the classic Call Of Duty tension between mechanical enjoyment and long-form progression pressure. A structured boosting service becomes an instrument for players who want competitive identity and functional unlock access without surrendering an entire season to repetitive tasks. Boostmatch, viewed through the broader industry framework of definition, logistics, psychology, and trust architecture, appears positioned to translate that demand into a disciplined BO7 catalog grounded in verified operators and transparent progress control.

Review: Retrace The Light

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Retrace The Light

Retrace The Light, Xiaming Game’s new isometric slash-em-up, has gotten me thinking a lot about AI. See, I’m firmly against this decade’s interpretation of AI. Chatbots that will scrape the internet and Frankenstein it together into an answer or an image, copyright be damned. It’s the fundamental death of art. But that’s not intelligence. The AI in Retrace The Light is sentient, even emotional. In many aspects, it’s just like us.

That kind of AI, I’m actually in favour of. I don’t really think that flesh and blood is worth that much, when it comes to sentience. The problems arrive when we tell AI to start helping humanity, regardless of whether other humans actually ask for it. Thus arises the central dilemma of Retrace The Light. An AI that is unquestionably helping, but at what cost? It’s a more and more relevant problem, that’s enclosed in a game that is both smart and good fun.

Retrace The Light

Actually Intelligent

Retrace The Light centres around Enforcer Decem, an AI construct inside of a wider AI program called ‘Primus’. Decem is part of the ‘Meta Mirror Project’, which is a sort of mental health project designed to eliminate obsessions within humans. So if someone is obsessed with some past mistake, for instance, Enforcers are sent into representations of their mind, called Mirrormazes, to destroy the obsession, represented as monsters called ‘Mirrormares’. It’s an intriguing frame for a story, bringing forward the potential for a variety of environments and raising a whole host of ethical questions.

It’s these ethical questions that form the backbone of the plot. We’re essentially mucking around with people’s brains here. It’s stated explicitly that one subject, at least, became subdued and unemotional at the end of it. They’re productive in society, just no longer themselves. Retrace The Light explores this concept pretty well. Admittedly, it does so in a bit of a dry way. A lot of the collectibles, which are quite important to the central theme, are exceedingly dry reports. Still, the writing on the whole isn’t bad at all.

That’s reflected in the character writing. Decem is joined by a small, but quite diverse cast of characters. There’s Novem, a more outwardly emotional enforcer, Septem, the guarded librarian, Quinque, the technician with a checkered past, and Finis, a branch of Primus. They all have downtime chats with each other, which build the characters up well. I can imagine them all having a drink together, which is a sign of good characterisation. I feel like Decem himself is the only exception. He has amnesia, and we don’t really fill in his backstory that much. Still, he does cultivate a personality by the end.

Retrace The Light

Absorbingly Intricate

That’s enough rambling about writing, let’s talk about the gameplay of Retrace The Light. At its core, it’s an isometric hack-and-slash. You have light, heavy and special attacks. Movement feels very responsive, and blows feel weighty. The most interesting part, though, is the ‘light trail’ mechanic. When you dash, you leave behind a trail and at the touch of a button you can ‘retrace’ yourself down it. So if an enemy is running behind you, you can retrace behind him and give him a big sword up the rear end.

It works remarkably well. Essentially you lay a trail by dodging, so getting out of combat and then rewinding back in feels very natural, after a small adjustment period. It definitely takes some getting used to, which the boss fights take full advantage of. Bosses have heavy hits that you can ‘dodge’ by retracing at the right time. But you need a trail to do that, so you need to learn to dodge before the attack starts. It’s enough of a twist on the standard combat to keep it exciting. Still, there are some odd balance issues at play. Bosses get very difficult around the middle of the game, but once you’ve stacked up on upgrades, you become quite overpowered.

There was one Orb mini-boss in the mid-game that would take me apart exceedingly quickly, because one mistake was punished by being hit multiple times. The penultimate boss, though? Folded them in minutes. It’s still a checkmark, though. As are the interstitial puzzles. These wring as much potential out of the retracing mechanic as possible. There are even ‘rifts’ that have more challenging puzzles in, with the reward of upgrade points. New abilities are drip-fed as the game progresses, culminating in some teeth-grindingly challenging optional puzzles.

Retrace The Light

Retrace The Light – Aesthetically Impeccable

Moving back to a surface level, Retrace The Light looks great. It has a very clean art style, which highlights the nice character and boss designs. Crucially, each Mirrormaze you go into feels significantly different, and reflective of its owner. So while one looks quite grey and drab, you quickly learn there’s a reason for it. I do wish the generic enemies followed suit, though. The same small handful of robotic enemies will re-appear often, with no gameplay change either. So they turn from challenging fight into minor nuisance.

Still, I found myself drawn into Retrace The Light. It has a smart central plot, with multiple endings. There are some clear choices along the way, which impact our characters. I wouldn’t say the story is impeccable – it makes a odd meta play towards the end – but it’s definitely above average. Even if the story isn’t your cup of tea, the fast paced combat rewards skilful play and is just plain fun. This is a game screaming for an arena mode. So whether you’re in the mood for some chin-stroking sci-fi, or you just want to hit things and look good doing it, Retrace The Light has something for you.

(Retrace The Light‘s Steam Page)

Review: Synth Riders

Daniel Waite
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Review: Synth Riders

Synth Riders was originally a VR title. This should be problematic as full-body motion controls don’t always translate well to controllers or Joy-Cons. Thankfully, my fears were miles off the mark as the developer has done an amazing job with the control system. Furthermore, although the concept is relatively simple, the action is addictive and tough to put down.

Kluge Interactive developed and published this synth experience. It is a single-player and multiplayer title that has a wonderful neon edge. Moreover, it is relatively simple to master as every core concept is well explained. However, there is plenty of room for error as you must react perfectly and avoid obstacles if you wish to get the highest score.

Synth Riders is all about heroes and a dystopian future.

AI is quickly becoming the norm. However, people fear that it will take over. Sadly, this is exactly what happens in Synth Riders. The ruthless AI named XANDER has seized control of the city. This evil entity has banned art, and society has almost forgotten its existence. Thankfully, 3 heroes will not let this happen as they grab their hoverboards and take to the streets.

The story is told wonderfully through cutscenes that punctuate the campaign mode. As you progress, an eclectic array of funky songs fills the air. It is this toe-tapping spine that makes Synth Riders a truly stunning spectacle. Although many of the tunes were not to my liking, I loved the hard-hitting bass and the vibrant neon edge.

Plenty to get your teeth into.

If you enjoy a competitive experience, this will appeal to you. The multiplayer mode is great fun. Additionally, competing to show your movement prowess has some great bragging rights. Timing, accuracy, and the ability to avoid obstacles help to enhance your score. If you can knit together a lengthy streak and time your movement perfectly, you will destroy anyone or anything that tries to take your spot on the leaderboard.

If you are a solo player, you can play this casually or dig into the campaign mode. Either way, the concept is the same. You are challenged to move your character’s arms to hit either a pink or a blue symbol. Alternatively, you must leap chasms, avoid walls, and ride rails. Each of these elements is easy on its own, but when combined, it becomes a bit hectic to follow.

Alongside this, there are some crazy tricks to execute. These add to the madness while enhancing your score. Consequently, mastering these moves quickly becomes an essential element. Thankfully, younger gamers can still enjoy the action without pushing themselves to the limits. This makes Synth Riders an extremely balanced and accessible game.

Synth Riders looks fantastic.

Whether you play this on your handheld screen or your TV, it looks fantastic. There is a wonderful futuristic edge that matches the energetic audio. Furthermore, each of the 3 heroes has a unique look that adds variety. I admit that I didn’t pay much attention to the background. However, when I did take note, I liked the grim appeal and the wash of neon lights.

The audio is a synth dream. Furthermore, if you buy the premium edition or buy the DLC, you’ll enjoy an array of popular artists and songs. If you own the base game, you’ll enjoy 28 songs. However, the premium edition extends this to 64 songs, including every item from the 6 available DLC.

Excellent controls.

I expected Synth Riders to be horrible to play. VR ported games tend to be a little jarring and poorly executed. Luckily, this doesn’t suffer from poor controls or a lack of accuracy. Instead, it is responsive, easy to play, and a joy to collect every blue and pink note.

If you love this genre, you will not be able to put this down. Whether you play this alone or with others, it’s a competitive, addictive, and great deal of fun. Moreover, the ability to expand the library of songs helps to enhance replay value and longevity.

Synth Riders is a great indie game.

This appealed to my love of music and my competitive side. I adore the futuristic style, the excellent story, and the multiplayer action. Moreover, it was easy to pick up and tough to master. Accordingly, I think it’s a great indie game, and I recommend buying it here! Can you bring art and music back to the world? Grab your board, pull off some amazing moves, and show that AI who is boss.

A Closer Look at the Oniverse Polaris Wireless Gaming Headset

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at the Oniverse Polaris Wireless Gaming Headset

With Christmas less than a week away, we take a closer look at the Oniverse Polaris Wireless Gaming Headset.

Immerse yourself in the heart of the action with our Polaris wireless headset. The 2.4GHz low latency of 22ms and 7.1 virtual surround sound allow you to keep the edge in all occasions.

Its versatility means that it will accompany you everywhere thanks to its 33-hour battery life with LED, its range of 10 meters and its light weight for optimal comfort. With its multi-platform compatibility it adapts to all your desires.

Never interrupt your gaming session thanks to its 3 connection modes: Bluetooth, with a wireless dongle for more performance or wired to extend your experience.

To meet all your needs, the Polaris offers 3 distinct connection modes. For gamers, the 2.4GHz wireless dongle is the best option, it offers a low latency of 22ms which allows optimal performance. For listening to music or making calls, prefer Bluetooth mode, it can be used without accessories for greater simplicity. The 3.5mm Jack cable allows you to use your headset even when discharged to enjoy the sound and microphone.

This headset has been designed for an optimal gaming experience. Its low latency and virtual 7.1 Surround sound (only on PC) will be essential for FPS players. No more gaming sessions cut short by a discharged headset! With its 48-hour battery life without LED, the Polaris won’t let you down in the middle of the game. Thanks to a recharge time of less than 3 hours and the possibility of using it even without battery, you will never be stuck in your gaming sessions.

The versatility of the Polaris is found in its accessories: its USB-C dongle and its USB-C to USB-A adapter allow you to use it on all your recent or old devices. Thanks to its included 3.5mm jack cable, this gaming headset connects to all consoles. Whether you are a PS5/PS4/SWITCH/Xbox One/One S/Series X or PC player, the Polaris adapts to all your gaming platforms. 

Thanks to its adjustable headband, the Polaris adapts to all heads and all body types. Its breathable fabric pads allow prolonged use that is still comfortable. You won’t even feel that you have a helmet thanks to its featherweight of 225g. The Polaris is made for gaming, its integrated buttons on the headset allow you to react instantly without taking your eyes off the screen. It has a built-in microphone for portable use and a flexible detachable microphone included for clear communication in all circumstances.

The Oniverse Polaris Wireless Gaming Headset is available now priced around €59.99 and is available in Celestial White, Carbon Black, Aurora Pink and Sideral Blue.

You can learn more from the Oniverse website.

A Closer Look at the Oniverse 8-in-1 Starter Pack for Nintendo Switch 2

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at the Oniverse 8-in-1 Starter Pack for Nintendo Switch 2

With Christmas less than a week away, we take a closer look at the Oniverse 8-in-1 Starter Pack for Nintendo Switch 2.

This starter kit contains all the essential accessories to get started with your Switch 2 console!

With all the accessories grouped together in a single pack for ease of use, you can protect your console and enhance your gaming experience. The carrying case is a must-have for gamers on the go. The tempered glass screen protector and cleaning kit effectively protect and keep your console clean. As a bonus, the audio splitter lets you connect two headphones simultaneously. The USB-C cable and USB-C to USB-A adapter let you charge your console in any situation.

The carrying case is ideal for gamers on the go who want to protect their Switch from drops and bumps. Its hard exterior and velvet interior are a perfect combination to effectively protect your console. Its zippered compartment allows you to safely store your accessories. Its 10 game compartments allow you to keep everything in one place.

You can choose to share your adventures with another with the Jack audio splitter! Compatible with wired earphones and headsets, this accessory will allow you to play simultaneously without disturbing those around you on public transport or in an outdoor environment.

The USB-C to USB-C cable lets you charge your Switch 2 wherever you are. With its 1.5-meter length, you can continue to enjoy your games while charging. The aluminum connectors offer a longer lifespan than a traditional cable. The included USB-C to USB-A adapter is very useful for charging your console on all devices, even the oldest.

The protective screen protects your console from scratches and accidents without compromising your gaming experience with its 0.33mm thickness. You will also find a cleaning kit containing 2 wipes and a microfiber cloth to keep your Switch brand new!

A sheet of stickers in the colours of Oniverse completes the set so you can personalise your console or your accessories to your taste!

The Oniverse 8-in-1 Starter Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 is available now priced around €16.99.

You can learn more from the Oniverse website.

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