With Christmas only a few weeks away now, we take a closer look at GraviTrax The Game Flow.
Get your puzzle-solving juices percolating with progressively problematic challenges in “GraviTrax The Game: Flow”!
How does the ball get from start to finish when, for example, only 4 height stones, 3 curves and 2 rails are available to build the railway? 30 task cards show the start and finish point of the track to be built. If at the end the ball rolls from start to finish and all parts are used, the puzzle is solved. Hexagonal base plates, which can be variably placed next to each other, enable tricky and varied puzzle fun with the interactive marble run system.
This STEM system [Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths] is an ideal one to teach kids about gravity, magnetism, kinetic energy and fun. Hit a snag? Freestyle with your own track design or use the tasks and blueprints included to help you to get started in the world of GraviTrax! Are the gravity spheres stopping or flying off before reaching the end target? Time for some problem solving. Rebuild and try something different! The GraviTrax track system can be extended indefinitely with extra track packs and add-on’s – each sold separately.
GraviTrax The Game Flow is available now priced around £17.99.
With Christmas only a few weeks away now, we take a closer look at Disney Villains Labyrinth from Ravensburger.
Unleash the Villains and their Henchmen! The Villains and their Henchmen find themselves trapped in a magical maze! Journey around the maze and gather a team to help you escape!
Together you are stronger! In Labyrinth, Ravensburger’s hugely popular family board game, you have to find the shortest route through the Labyrinth to win!
The game is for 2-4 players aged 7 and up, and the aim is to reach all your treasures and targets as you move through the Labyrinth.
Disney Villains Labyrinth from Ravensburger is available now priced around £27.99.
With Christmas only a few weeks away now, we take a closer look at Enchanted Forest Sagaland from Ravensburger.
Ariel, Moana, Belle and Tiana are excited to join the other princess for afternoon tea at the castle, but the other princess have got lost in the forest! Help find her so they can be reunited again and enjoy a magical afternoon together. Fun play experience – How to play the game; roll the dice and race around the enchanted landscape. Search under the decorative sculpts and then race to the finish space when you’ve found them and win their cards.
Easy to understand instructions make it possible to start playing right away.
Great replay value – Reveal the Character card and the hunt begins. Each time a treasure is found, a new card is revealed, until all the Disney Princesses have been found. The player who finds the most friends is the winner.
For 2 to 4 Players aged 6 years and up.
Enchanted Forest Sagaland from Ravensburger is available now priced around £19.99.
With Christmas only a few weeks away now, we take a closer look at Bugs in the Kitchen from Ravensburger.
There’s a pesky little bug in the kitchen! And it’s not just any bug – it’s a HEXBUG nano, scuttling around the game board! Quick – can you catch it in the trap? By turning knives, forks and spoons you can direct the bug into the trap.
Throw the die to discover which utensils you can turn. Catch the bug in the trap and earn a token – the first player to collect 5 tokens wins the game.
A fun-to-play family game suitable for 2-4 players, aged 6 years and upwards.
Bugs in the Kitchen from Ravensburger is available now priced around £28.99.
The horror genre often throws up some unusual and interesting experiences. However, occasionally it is too reliant on clichés and well-trodden elements. As such, there is a very real risk of déjà vu and a disinterested audience. When I was given Saint Kotar to review, I had no idea of what to expect. Consequently, much of the action took me by surprise, and I was shocked by the gruesome images and uncomfortable story. Unfortunately, though, its laboured opening was confusing and tough to wade through.
Developed by Red Martyr Entertainment and published by SOEDESCO, this is a horror adventure title. What’s more, it has a blend of point-and-click and interactive story mechanics, and it incorporates some puzzle elements. Accordingly, it is a bit of a hybrid that has its fingers in many pies. Now, this focus on multiple genres dilutes the approach somewhat, but I still believe it works.
Saint Kotar focuses on religion and witchcraft.
Using witchcraft and religion as your core themes can be tricky. Not only can it alienate your audience, but it can be so ridiculous that you are instantly turned off. However, Saint Kotar does a great job of blending the polar opposite ideas within its shifting story. On top of this, its grim settings and unusual characters work well with the strange plot.
The story is set in Croatia and focuses on two priests. These individuals are invited to an ancient, God-devoted town called Sveti Kotar. However, once they enter this creepy location, things go quickly awry. Benedek and Nikolay are abandoned by Viktoria as she undertakes an alleged demonic ritual. Accordingly, the God-fearing community is up in arms about the situation and the two priests are being held responsible.
By exploring the local area and questioning the residents, maybe the pair can understand what is happening. Yet, the more they press for answers, the greater the danger that they face. Therefore, it is a continuous balancing act as the truth is unfortunately revealed.
Burn the outsiders.
Far too slow.
Now, I love an atmospheric tale that absorbs its grim surroundings. However, Saint Kotar is too slow. The first two hours or so are confusing, arduous, and off-putting. Yet, once you battle through it, you experience some grisly sights. Furthermore, the mysterious backgrounds of the protagonists come to the fore.
The core mechanics focus on dialogue, puzzles, and exploration. As such, you’ll investigate weird locations while searching for clues and interacting with the creepy locals. On top of this, your decisions often have consequences where many of the key players meet their demise. Accordingly, you must consider your questions and actions before you act.
This element of the gameplay was often uncomfortable and gave the story a twisted psychological edge. However, this is where the depth of the dialogue ends. Mostly, each interaction serves as a gateway to the new locations or acts as the ability to send you on multiple side quests. Now, this isn’t a complaint, as I enjoyed exploring the horrific world. Instead, I would have liked there to be more variety in the tasks on offer, and some more mystery surrounding the central story.
That’s not a welcoming sight.
Two unique stories intertwined.
Saint Kotar runs multiple stories simultaneously. As such, you experience each playable character’s backstories and gruesome ordeals side by side. At pivotal moments, you will flit between each character as they use their strengths and weaknesses to proceed. Subsequently, you’ll interact with particular residents multiple times and their responses will alter the flow of the story.
This was fascinating, as it gave the gameplay real depth while enhancing the unusual and uncomfortable nature of the plot. Disappointingly, though, the puzzles lacked any sort of difficulty. Therefore, it took limited consideration to overcome each situation. This was frustrating, as I’d have loved the problems to be much harder to solve.
Saint Kotar: a grim but rough world.
You have to applaud the developers for their depressing and ominous work. The dark and earthy colours and claustrophobic areas create an oppressive atmosphere. However, the walking animation is terrible and the dialogue inexplicably flickers. These issues, though minor, break up the immersion and are extremely off-putting. However, thankfully, they aren’t game-breaking and I’m sure they will be ironed out at a later date.
On the other hand, the audio does well to enhance the sultry and moody atmosphere. With sombre music and creepy acting, the story will make your skin crawl. Furthermore, the incredible environmental sounds are the icing on the cake. I adored the strange and grim noises that accompanied the uncomfortable and eerie images.
Can you get to the bottom of the mystery?
It shouldn’t handle so well.
Point-and-click games and consoles = frustration. Yet, Saint Kotar breaks this rule! The combination of free-flowing movement and point-and-click mechanics works beautifully. Moreover, the intelligent but stripped-back UI helps further still. Yes, there are times when it gets a bit niggly, but it wasn’t ever a problem. Therefore, I was pleasantly surprised by how well-considered the control setup was.
Though the game isn’t particularly long, there is plenty of longevity and replay value. Thanks to the branching storylines and consequential dialogue, you can experience multiple versions of each protagonist’s plot. What’s more, the hefty achievement list will be a challenge for every completionist.
Saint Kotar won’t appeal to everyone.
Religion, witchcraft, and the horror genre are divisive categories. As such, the combination of all three will put off some gamers. But, in this instance, it shouldn’t. The excellent but strange story, sinister characters, and weird locations override the slow and arduous start. What’s more, the creepy imagery and interesting backstories make this an uncomfortable but captivating experience. Accordingly, I recommend you buy it here! Can you solve the mystery and save yourself? Explore, interact, and above all else, survive.
An increase has been identified in the number of exciting blackjack variations accessible at live tables. At tables staffed by live dealers, you may play a variety of blackjack variants, including those with multipliers and speed blackjack, in which you don’t have to wait for your turn to make a move. These creative spins on highest payout online casino in Australiawith real money and blackjack indicate the game’s enduring appeal and the makers’ commitment to creating engaging variations.
Anyone, from complete novices to seasoned high rollers, may walk in and locate a suitable table to play at. However, we suggest playing RNG games like online slots at the best online casino until you perfect your abilities if you are a novice at blackjack. Please, get familiar with the games you’re interested in playing and take your time practising them until you feel comfortable making real money bets at a live dealer table. Let’s dive further into why the blackjack game is so well-liked in real-life gambling halls.
A Realistic Gaming Experience
The popularity of blackjack among real-life casino patrons is well-documented. You’re just a mouse click away from recreating the atmosphere of a real casino at home. This version of blackjack, run by real people, is perfect for die-hard enthusiasts who don’t have time to go to land-based casinos.
Players may see blackjack being dealt with in real-time from high-end studios equipped with many high-definition cameras. There is no better location to play blackjack than at a table where you can see a live dealer shuffle and deal the cards. You may access it quickly and easily from any computer or mobile device.
Advantageous Playing Rules
The creators of live dealer blackjack spared no expense in ensuring that every little detail was attended to. Especially about the stipulations presented. For the most part, the house advantage in the actual game of most live versions of the play is 0.50%, thanks to their meticulous implementation. Among them are provisions such as the dealer standing on all 17s and a regular paying 3:2.
You won’t have any problem transitioning from one version of blackjack to another since even the varieties played at live tables are indiscernible to the casual player. However, before jumping into any game, you should familiarise yourself with the rules and optimal tactics. That’s the only certain way to achieve your goals.
Competency-Based Gaming
The rules of blackjack are different from those of other games. Therefore it’s up to you to study them to get an advantage. In this case, success is not contingent on chance alone. If you learn how to wager and choose your moves well, and if you play blackjack more often, you will increase your chances of winning a jackpot. The game features simple rules that any first-time player may pick up without needing a glossary. While regular victories take longer, you may still build up milestones and cash.
Although it’s been around for a while, blackjack has evolved into many other video game genres because of its simple rules. If you’re bored with the classic version of blackjack, there are plenty of exciting variations to try your hand at.
How Does Live Blackjack Operate?
Online blackjack with a live dealer starts as soon as you sit at the table. It’s a common misconception that dealers use real chips for wagers while players use digital chips in reality. Following the completion of the wager, the dealer will deal with the cards, and the hand will continue as usual. At specific points throughout a hand, the dealer will allow you to make decisions. Once everyone has finished their moves, the dealer will tell you whether you:
Lost
Won
Tied
To have your queries addressed, you can usually ask the dealer. The dealers may be recorded at a real dollar deposit casino anywhere in the globe, but most often, they are located in a studio designed to seem like a casino. In addition, live dealer casino games, such as casino poker and live roulette, are often played in the background. Even though this kind of blackjack is novel and probably seems odd to you, it is rapidly becoming the norm for online blackjack players.
A Guide to Placing Bets
When playing live blackjack, the first step is for the player to make a wager. To make a wager, use your mouse to choose a chip from the virtual supply at the screen’s bottom and drop it into the appropriate online slot. With the help of the floating chat box, casino players may communicate with the dealer and other participants at the table. Video chat allows dealers to interact with players in real time, answering their inquiries and addressing their concerns. At the same table, bets are passed clockwise around the circle.
After all, wagers have been made, the dealer gives each gamer and himself two cards, with one of his cards showing. Live blackjack rules are identical to those of the classic casino game. After the first card is dealt, players take turns making decisions about whether to hit, split, or double down based on the cards they have. When a player’s turn is finished, the casino dealer will reveal the card under his cover and compare it to the player’s hand. If there are any questions after the game, one can address a platform customer support.
Advice for the Live Blackjack Table
There is some advice on how to behave at the casino table:
Precise planning. Make sure your nerves are calm, and your game plan is solid before you start having fun. Spend a lot of time on the game, and do your best to ignore distractions.
Being familiar with the rules. This may seem obvious, yet a surprising number of new players go in without first learning the basics. Even if you think you know the rules, it’s best to double-check to be sure since there might be subtle differences across the many different versions of the game.
Refusing to budge from one’s plan. Since the deck is often shuffled in online games, a card-counting approach would be useless. Develop a plan and commit to it.
Conclusion
Blackjack is, without a shadow of a doubt, one of the most played games in the best online or land-based casinos. You don’t need much in the way of talent to play and win this game. People with a wide range of bankrolls may enjoy the blackjack game because of its tiered betting structure. Soon after the mid-1990s, internet casinos began popping up all over the place, and blackjack was one of the first games they provided. The game’s popularity skyrocketed as it was introduced to new fans.
On the other hand, blackjack with a live dealer is becoming more common, and more and more casinos offer it. So it’s possible that playing blackjack in a live setting is just what you need if you’re searching for a more exciting and interactive gambling experience.
Blogging is poised for more tremendous success than ever before. Keeping a blog is a habit that will stick around for a long time. Real people’s stories and insights are what the public wants to hear. Increasing numbers of you are using the Internet to research questions, get statistics, shop for goods and services, connect with potential partners, and even fall in love. To be successful with blogs, you need to provide material that is both original and high quality. Though competition is fierce, opportunities for achievement are higher than ever.
However, the number of people who use the Internet is growing, and more companies are moving their operations online. The following trends will influence future blogging.
Branding Is More Important
Numerous major media organisations have recently entered the blogosphere to enhance their market share. In addition, Google and other search engines prefer well-known businesses and authoritative websites.
Consequently, there will be some issues as smaller companies struggle to compete. The more clients they can persuade by establishing themselves as an authority via their brand’s high-quality content, the better.
Therefore, businesses of all sizes and even https://www.slotozilla.com/uk/free-spins will seek to engage expert blog writers to provide top-notch material for well-known sites.
Intelligent Content Robots: The Prominence of Multimedia Material Is Expected to Rise
The technology is improving, and bots now employ machine learning and artificial intelligence. Large corporations will use automated writing bots for popular blogs. Unfortunately, the stuff bots can’t manage is not factually or contextually based. To compete in the blogging industry, one must acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to create engaging content and persuasive materials.
Promoting a product or service is almost impossible with the help of social media sites. Social media content is the future of blogging since it increases readership and traffic. Bloggers must have a firm grasp on optimising their material for social media. Thus, it becomes possible to achieve the intended effects.
Individuals Are More Likely to React to and Share Visually Appealing Material
For this reason, it’s no surprise that visual content is on the rise. Bloggers should put more effort into creating visual material for social media and all their venues. There are many more practical methods to encourage many people to visit a blog when that site has plenty of images. Due to the rise of remote work, digital consumption is expected to rise, and the need for blogging may also rise. As time goes on, the Internet becomes the go-to place for consumers to research and make purchases. If a blogger wants to be competitive for the long haul, they must develop and adhere to a rigorous blogging strategy and routine.
Consequently, there will be a greater need for credible bloggers, and Search engines will be dominated by high-quality material. Many businesses post their information on authoritative blogs to attract clients interested in learning more about a specific niche or issue. Bloggers should hone their craft or become experts in a particular field simultaneously with content creation. They need to consider becoming an expert in their subject so that others trust their information. Quality content will consistently rank higher in SERPs; thus, blogs should regularly publish new articles free of mistakes and plagiarism. Spending more time perfecting one’s content rather than pumping out a large amount is the best way to get search engine visibility and credibility.
The Prevalence of Educational Material Will Grow
Nowadays, consumers have little interest in learning about a brand’s specifications. Therefore, bloggers should provide information in this area. The blogger should focus on providing helpful information rather than pushing a product.
This, in turn, provides means of influencing the audience as quickly as possible, which has benefits. Bloggers need to be flexible since new trends in content type emerge each year. The next five years will see a rise in VR blogs and immersive technology platforms. To be successful as a blogger, one must keep up with the latest information and trends in the field. Sharing blog posts most effectively is greatly aided by this.
Blog Posts on Many Aspects of Gambling
Gambling techniques that pay off: Writing blog content about winning casino tactics helps guide readers toward the games that are most likely to provide a return on investment. In addition, people will feel more connected to your brand and more likely to revisit your website for material that may interest them if you use this strategy.
Reviews of different casino games: If your website caters to gamblers, you should provide reviews of the most played games on your site. Reviews help consumers make informed decisions when making purchases.
Promotions for casinos bring in new customers and pique their interest in your company. In addition, your postings will be helpful for individuals curious about testing out new games since it’s possible that most people aren’t aware of the many deals accessible to them.
Making material that tackles the topic of responsible gambling demonstrates that you care about your audience’s well-being as gamblers, which is a significant selling point for many.
Detailed guides on how to win at various casino games may increase repeat visitors and keep them coming back for more. This is particularly true if you outline specific steps players should take to achieve their goals.
Many individuals are thrown off by casino games’ complex nature and regulations. You can do a lot to boost client happiness and commitment to your brand by writing how-to guides detailing each game’s mechanics.
Guide to Winning at Casinos: To keep visitors interested in your casino site, it is helpful to present them with a list of suggestions that will increase their chances of winning. This is particularly the case if your instructions are thorough enough to assist players in winning more often than they lose.
Unknown facts about casinos: With the aid of casino insider secrets, you can fill your website with engaging material and attract more visitors.
The advantages of gambling at [your casino] You may help [your casino] establish itself as an industry leader if you write blog entries extolling its virtues as a gambling destination. People who encounter stuff like this are more likely to sign up at [your casino] since they’ll be persuaded of the site’s usefulness.
Conclusion
In the same way that many YouTubers and other content writers have found success and made a lot of money with their careers, so too can a blogger if they are passionate and hardworking about what they do. While success in blogging requires undivided attention and effort from the blogger, the medium has a promising future because of rising Internet and social media usage. All successful bloggers put in a lot of time, approach their blogs like companies and work their way up to the point where they can do it full-time and live the laptop lifestyle. No one should enter the blogging world expecting to be treated with kid gloves. Working hard, having patience, and being honest are the three pillars upon which success rests.
Gambling has been a popular pastime for centuries and has evolved significantly in recent years with the advent of online gambling. Traditional casinos are still hugely popular, but there is now a growing number of people who prefer to gamble online at casinos with the best no deposit free spins australia. In this article, we will look at the benefits of playing at online gambling sites over traditional casinos.
The Growth of Online Gambling
Online gambling has seen rapid growth in recent years, with more and more people turning to the internet to place their bets. This trend is set to continue, with the global online casino gambling market expected to reach $92.9 billion by 2023.
Several factors drive this growth, including the increasing availability of broadband internet access and the rising popularity of mobile devices. In addition, the amount of money that can be won through online gambling is often more significant than what is available at traditional brick-and-mortar clubs. This combination of factors has made online casino gambling an attractive proposition worldwide. However, it is essential to note that some risks are also associated with this activity.
The Pros and Cons of Playing at Online Gambling Sites
Gambling online has many benefits over playing at traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is convenience. With online gambling, you can play from the comfort of your own home without having to travel to a casino. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area with no nearby clubs or don’t have the time or energy to make a trip.
Another benefit of online gambling is that it offers a broader range of games than most brick-and-mortar casinos. While most traditional casinos offer games such as blackjack, roulette, and slots, online gambling sites also offer games such as bingo, poker, and sports betting. This means that there is something for everyone at an online gambling site.
In addition to a wider range of casino games like online slots, online gambling sites typically offer better odds than traditional clubs. This is because they have lower overhead costs and because they can offer more bonuses and promotions. Bonuses and promotions can make a big difference in the amount of money you can win or lose when gambling online for real money.
The drawbacks of online gambling sites are that some are not very safe and secure, and there is also the possibility of fraud. A few online gambling sites also do not offer a fair game. For example, some online gambling sites do not allow players to withdraw their winnings. The other drawbacks also include the following:
You may not be able to play for as long as you want. This is because most casinos have a limit on the amount of time that you can play.
You may not be able to win as much money as you wish. This is because most casinos set limits on how much you can bet on each game.
Despite these drawbacks, playing at an online casino can still be a lot of fun. This is because there are many different casino games that you can play. In addition, you can find many different bonuses that you can use to help you win more money. Just make sure that you do your research before you decide to play at an online casino. This way, you will be able to find the best possible deal for you.
Benefits of Land-Based Casinos
There are several benefits of land-based casinos that make them a popular choice for many gamblers. One benefit is the convenience they offer. Land-based casinos are typically located close to other businesses and attractions, making them easy to get to. Another benefit is the wide variety of games available at land-based casinos and iconic mega resorts.
Many of these casinos offer a variety of slot machines, table games, and live dealer games. This gives gamblers a chance to try their hand at various games. Finally, land-based casinos usually offer higher customer service than online casinos. If you have any questions or concerns about your gambling experience, you can speak to someone in person who can help you resolve them.
Drawbacks of Land-Based Casinos
While land-based casinos have many advantages if you are not a pro at the casino, but want to win big, there are also some disadvantages worth considering. Here are a few of the potential drawbacks of playing at a land-based casino:
They can be quite expensive to visit. Land-based casinos are usually located in expensive real estate areas, which means they often come with high entrance fees and other associated costs.
They can be very crowded, noisy and overwhelming places. With so many people crammed into one space, it can be difficult to really enjoy your time at a land-based casino.
You may have to travel some distance to reach one. If there isn’t a casino nearby, you may have to spend money on transport and accommodation just to visit one.
Conclusion
There are many benefits that online gambling sites offer over traditional casinos. First, online gambling sites are more convenient since they can be accessed anywhere with an internet connection. Second, online gambling sites often have better odds and higher payouts than traditional casinos. Third, online gambling sites offer various games and betting options so that players can find the perfect game for their preferences. Finally, online gambling sites provide bonuses and promotions that can help players increase their winnings.
Online casinos allow people to gamble without the hassle of going to the casino. However, with so many virtual casinos, how can you know which is trustworthy? This article will help you with tips on how to find an excellent online casino.
Speedy and Trustworthy Payments
Reliability is one of the most important things when it comes to determining the most trusted online casinos for USA players. You need to trust that you will get your money back, and every time you make a deposit, you can withdraw what you have won.
Most online casinos are upright because there are many checks and balances for their games. This means there is a high level of security for both the players and the casinos. Plus, online casinos have fast payouts, meaning that you can get your winnings in your account within no time after winning.
Fairness in Games
You want to be sure that you are playing a fair game and that your money is safe. The first thing you have to determine is if the casino offers provably impartial games. That implies that you can test the games before playing them and ensure they are fair. The second thing you should consider is whether they have an external audit system. This ensures that all of their games are checked for impartiality by an independent party at regular intervals. Finally, there’s always the option of asking around for reviews from other players who have played with this casino in the past.
Genuine Software
Another great step is to check the software provider. The most reputable providers offer a free trial, allowing you to play games on their platform before you decide whether or not to sign up.
Some of the best online casinos are powered by Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech, and Betsoft. These software providers have been around for many years and have a proven track record of providing quality games and reliable customer service.
Transparent Conditions
Many factors can be taken into consideration when looking for a good casino site. It is crucial to find one that uses transparent policies so you can be sure of what the site is doing with your funds and information. One of the ways that online casinos ensure authenticity is by not only having clear policies but also showing the payments in their transactions to prevent any errors or fraud from happening.
A transparent casino will provide you with information about the house edge and other vital factors. You should check the terms and conditions to determine whether they are reasonable. If you are not satisfied with what you see, then it is best to search for a different virtual casino.
Online casinos are quickly becoming a prevalent form of entertainment. The problem is that many people are wary of the legitimacy of these sites. There are many ways you can trust an online casino, and it is important that you do your research before you decide if one is appropriate or not.
Now and then, you get an offer you can’t refuse. Recently, this came in the form of a standing desk. Now, Andrew has looked at plenty of products from Flexispot, but my opportunity has never arisen. However, that has now changed, as I have the Flexispot EHD2 standing desk in my possession.
This stylish, spacious, and robust piece of furniture is the ideal solution for anyone that works from home. Furthermore, if you have children who need to complete homework, or work from a home computer or laptop, then this is an impressive option. This weighty desk has a sleek look, and the combination of wood and white finish gives it a modern look. On top of this, it has built-in USB ports, an excellent and smooth lifting device, and plenty of storage space.
Word of warning, though, this desk is really heavy to move. Consequently, I’d advise a two-person assembly for safety and convenience. Alternatively, if you take your time, and you are careful, one strong individual can cope.
What’s in the box of the Flexispot EHD2 standing desk?
The packaging consists of a large sturdy box adorned with key selling points. Inside, the contents are well packaged, and this prevents damage. Sadly, the use of plastic to hold key components makes it tough to recycle.
The Flexispot EHD2 standing desk comes in 6 parts. Consequently, it is easy to construct. Furthermore, the metal legs and feet are sturdy and strong. The desk itself is heavy, and the motor is cleverly hidden behind one of the drawers.
Flexispot control system. The control panel is attached underneath the desk and is easily wired to the power supply.
Screws and tools. The construction element of this desk is easy, as everything is provided.
An instruction manual. The well-illustrated and easy-to-follow guide makes it simple to set up this stylish piece of furniture.
Technical aspects.
A standing desk is rated for maximum lifting tolerances, unlike a traditional desk. Subsequently, the Flexispot EHD2 standing desk has a load capacity of 40kg. Now, this may sound low, and in comparison to some of their other desks, it is, but it matters not. I trialled several setups that included my laptop, a monitor and speakers, and an array of gaming peripherals. Thankfully, the desk never stuttered, and the single motor worked perfectly during every situation.
Alongside the lifting capabilities, you want your desk to be sturdy while being able to store an array of goods. Thankfully, this is another area in which it excels. With 2 sturdy legs that move simultaneously, the desk is stable and reliable. Alongside this, the chipboard worktop ensures there are no weak points in the design. Furthermore, it is available in both rectangular and curved formats. The latter is 140*70 cm and the first option is 120*60 or 140*70 cm. Consequently, there are several options to suit individual needs.
So we know it is sturdy, strong, and looks great. How about the storage space? Well, with two pleasantly sized draws located under the worktop, you can hide papers, stationary, and other goods out of sight. Moreover, the drawers move smoothly along their rails and sit flush within their housing. This was fantastic, as it added to the professional look while demonstrating a high-quality finish.
Other key points.
I was suitably impressed by every element of the Flexispot EHD2 standing desk. Yet, the surprises kept coming. Never would I expect a desk to come with built-in USB ports. Yet, here were are! With 2 USB-A ports and 2 USB-C ports, you are covered in every situation. Now, you may not be sold on this idea. But when space is at a premium and power sockets are few and far between, this is a lifesaver. Now, I know you could simply plug in a 4-way power supply. However, if you want a streamlined look, this simply won’t do. Instead, charge your phone, tablet, headphones, or sports watch from one convenient location.
From one electrical aspect to another. The lifting mechanism is unbelievably easy to use. Located on the underside of the desk, it has a straightforward design and is simple to understand. Accordingly, moving the desk along its 75-125 cm range was a cinch. Furthermore, the action is smooth as the device travels at 25mm/s. On top of this, there is an anti-collision system to prevent injuries. Subsequently, if you are moving the desk and a pet or your hand gets in the way, the motor will stop and the desk will rise.
This safety system was impressive and didn’t falter. Alongside this, there are 4 memory settings to ensure the desk is always at the right height. This feature was fantastic and enhanced its usability and straightforward approach.
Is the Flexispot EHD2 standing desk worth it?
One key thing to note is the time it takes to put this together. Because of its heavy nature, you’ll need to go slow. However, the straightforward instructions and intuitive setup make it a fairly systematic and simple-to-follow task. Yet, if you lack rudimentary DIY skills, I’d probably ask for help from a competent individual.
Purists will argue that a traditional desk should suffice. However, I disagree. If you spend hours at your workstation, then you’ll want the most comfortable experience you can have. Thankfully, the Flexispot EHD2 standing desk does just that. With its spacious design, adjustable height, and robust frame, you get the perfect seating position. Moreover, the inclusion of USB ports is a nice touch that enhances its desirability.
I couldn’t help but love it from the moment it was set up. With a stylish look, excellent storage, smooth movement, and heavy and robust nature, it is an excellent desk. Yes, the setup is a little fiddly, but this matters not, once you are up and running. Accordingly, I adore this piece of furniture, and I recommend you buy it here! Furthermore, the Flexispot Christmas sale is now available. Get upto 33% off selected items between Dec 1st 2022 and 25th Dec 2022.
(More information on Flexispot can be found here!)
To be completely transparent, I had no idea what Astlibra Revision was when I first set out to play it. At face value, it appeared to be nothing more than second-rate shovelware. However, looks are often deceiving. Now, having finished my playthrough, I can adamantly state that this title is my personal indie game of the year. I suppose, as the old saying goes, you can’t judge a book by its cover.
Taking a whopping 15 years to finish, Astlibra Revision is a 2D, side scrolling JRPG. It was spearheaded by KEIZO, and co-developed by small group of committed individuals. If nothing else, their time and dedication to this project highlights that patience is indeed a virtue.
Generic premise.
Astlibra begins by giving its audience the option of playing through a prologue. If you’re someone that would rather skip this to jump straight into the action, then allow me to summarise its contents for you here.
It kicks off with our unnamed protagonist, and his childhood friend, attempting to escape demons that are attacking their village. Unfortunately for the pair, the demons have an overwhelming numbers advantage. As a result, they are both apprehended, and, subsequently, knocked unconscious.
When our hero arises, he finds himself in an unknown location being greeted by a talking crow called Karon. Karon explains that he brought us to safety following the demon attack, and, more importantly, that every other human has spontaneously vanished off the face of the planet. Confused, eager to find answers, and determined to locate his missing friend, the duo decide to head out into the great unknown.
After 8 gruelling years of searching, they finally, and unexpectedly, encounter another person on their travels. This unlikely meeting has ramifications beyond their wildest expectations, and it is also the catalyst for where our story begins.
Shockingly beautiful story.
Truth be told, the prologue doesn’t do Astlibra’s plot any favours. The initial hook gives the false impression that this is going to be a clichéd and boring affair. Heck, even the Japanese subtext 生きた証, which loosely translates into ‘proof you were alive’, is slightly mundane and passé. Yet, as with almost every aspect of this game, you quickly learn the opposite.
Without spoiling anything, as the less you know about this the better, Astlibra story heavily features aspects of time travel. It is constructed in a manner that is both engaging and immersive, slowly drip-feeding pieces of the puzzle to solve the overarching narrative. In a way, it has a similar vibe to Chrono Trigger, albeit not as complex or ground-breaking. Still, it’s enjoyable nonetheless.
There are a few minor localisation problems, the likes of which include repeated sentences, incorrect spelling, and improper grammar, but I didn’t find these to be too distracting or obstructive.
Modernised retro gameplay.
If you’ve played the 3rd Ys entry, entitled Wanderers from Ys, then you’ll have a general idea of what you’re in for in Astlibra. For the uninitiated, it’s less Metroidvania, and more of a sophisticated take on The Adventure of Link.
Fluid combo system.
The core combat cycle in Astlibra revolves around a one button combo design. While this might sound boring, in reality, it’s genuinely a lot of fun. This is due to the different ways in which you can interact with your combos. Each direction on the analogue stick, as well as jumping, will modify your attacks animations. As these are performed with deliberate inputs, they can freely be cancelled into one another on the fly.
Additionally, all of the weapon types come with their own unique moveset. For example, using a hammer will give you extra reach and damage, at the cost of speed and combo potential. On the other hand, a dagger may be less potent, but will allow you to string together a rapid succession of blows. Ranged weapons, which include wands and magical staffs, deal large AoE damage, but leave you susceptible when caught in close quarters. The staggering amount of variety to be found, even within the specific types, is remarkable.
Altogether, this is an incredibly simplistic, satisfying, and fluid system to engage with. I can see why some people may find it repetitive, but frankly speaking, I never tired of it. However, if you’re wanting something a bit more bite, Astlibra still has you covered.
More than meets the eye.
Secret Arts are advanced combat techniques that get gradually added into your repertoire. Unlike Karon’s Magic, which I’ll talk about later on, these are permanently active moveset options. They allow you to do things like quickly dash backwards, launch your weapon as a ranged attack, or counter enemies strikes. You can intertwine any of these into your regular combo rotations. And, as the game progresses, it becomes exceedingly important to do so.
Possession Skills are my favourite combat tactic. By using SP, which is Astlibra’s version of mana, we can transform our feathered friend Karon into a powerful entity. Once this is done, he will cast a spell to temporarily assist us in battle. The spell can be anything from a barrage of ice spikes, to a dragon’s flame breath. Fundamentally, these are what other games may refer to as Espers, Summons, or Djinn. They aren’t going to win the fight by themselves, but they are gratifying to use.
Phases of exploration.
Exploration in Astlibra is split into 3 distinctive areas. Firstly, we have the Frontier, which is effectively the regions between two major locations. It hosts a plethora of regenerative monsters to fight, as well as platforming sequences to overcome.
Next up are the dungeons. These largely operate in the same way as the Frontier, though they aren’t nearly as one directional. They typically include an interactive puzzle to solve, along with a delightful boss battle to defeat. Of course, taking your time to look around may also reward you with treasure and other collectible goodies. You might even find a place to mine, which comes in handy to gain additional resources.
Last but not least are the towns and settlements. As you may expect, these are typically where you’ll pick up new quests, side-events, and equipment. In general, they also act as a place of respite from the ongoing chaos, with NPCs providing you with tidbits of lore.
In general, traversing around Astlibra feels very reminiscent of Castlevania 2: Simon’s Quest. The only difference between them is the former functions properly, has more available content, and is actually enjoyable to explore.
Customisation options that go all out.
Like with most RPGs, Astlibra has numerous ways for you to improve your character. For starters, levelling up allows you to boost your baseline attributes in any way you want. Want to be a glass cannon? Or perhaps an unstoppable tank? Well, all that and more can be achieved. If you end up thinking your build isn’t up to snuff, you needn’t worry. Astlibra allows you to freely reset your allocated points ad nauseum.
Pictured below (1) is Astlibra’s skill tree called GROW. Although the layout is rather basic, the content itself is comparable to FFX’s sphere grid. Killing enemies awards you with FORCE points, which can then be used to unlock nodes on the tree. Much like the sphere grid, what path you take is left entirely up to you. A node can include anything from bonus attributes, to possession skills, or even a new weapon.
We also have Karon’s Magic, and the LIBRA systems. The latter involves a set of scales which, when balanced evenly, will grant you additional benefits. What perks you gain solely depends on the items you set on the scales.
Finally, Karon’s Magic is the name given to passives and abilities you can activate. For instance, Karon can provide you with the ability to double jump or shield in mid-air. You are limited to how many abilities you can have enabled at once, but, much like the rest of the upgrades, you can pick and choose which ones are active anytime you’d like.
I found all of these mechanics to be incredibly intuitive and comprehensive. They work in combination with each other impeccably well, and allow further build diversification, and, consequently, more replayability value.
Graphical dispute.
Astlibra’s art style is going to be a major point of contention amongst gamers. Some people may state that it looks like a substandard mobile game. Others may simply say that it appears old and outdated. However, as someone that grew up playing online Flash games, the visual presentation doesn’t really bother me. In fact, when it comes to the environments, I think they look spectacular.
Examining the locales, they harbour a bizarre, ethereal-like quality to them, which enthusiastically captures the viewers’ attention. This is primarily achieved through a blend of stylised photographic backgrounds, and rudimentary, yet, complimentary, foregrounds. I will admit that it is a strange mix, but it’s also one that I find oddly effective.
Comparatively, the character sprites don’t elicit the same type of bewitching appeal. This is largely due to the way in which they’re implemented. It’s hard to showcase this in images, but the animations and outlines often conflict with each other, which can be rather disruptive during combat sections. Having said that, the sprite themselves are pretty awesome, with the guardian beasts being notable standouts. It’s merely the execution which leaves a lot to be desired.
Functional UI.
Thankfully, Astlibra’s UI is one area that everyone will be united in. It has a stylish, compact, and practical layout, meaning players can easily retain the presented information. Similarly, navigating through the menus is seamless and smooth, which exponentially hastens downtime activities. Honestly, everything that a good UI needs is present and accounted for here.
Musically masterful.
By the same token, the multiple composers which occupy Astlibra’s soundtrack are equally as deserving of their own awards. Independently, they each bring their own ideologies and mannerisms into the OST. In turn, this fosters a collection of varied tracks, which ensures each narrative and gameplay element has an appropriately paired arrangement.
To top it all off, the OST also features an anime style intro, complete with outstanding vocal performances, and fantastic instrumentation. This massively helps to setup the overall tone of the game, and, as a by-product, generates hype for the upcoming adventure.
Plainly put, I thoroughly enjoyed this soundtrack. It crosses into multiple different genres, and constantly keeps things feeling fresh. There may be one or two pieces which I’m not overly keen on, but, for the most part, this is a superb effort. My personal favourite track is Surface Tension from Mozell. You can check that out below.
As an aside, the vast majority of music in this game is compiled from outsourced material. It’s possible that you might recognise a handful of tracks from other games, or even from full length LPs. However, that doesn’t take away from how well they innately intertwine into Astlibra’s aesthetic.
Conclusion
Astlibra Revision is a prime example of what time and dedication can achieve. Its narrative expertly blends time travel concepts with high fantasy tropes, creating a captivating and memorable experience. Combat sequences, whilst chaotic at times, are unbelievably addictive and entertaining. Additionally, the numerous customisation options means you’ll easily be able to find something that suits your playstyle. Visually, it’s not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. Yet, it still manages to retain its own charmful, and alluring qualities. Lastly, the musical arrangements cover a wide array of genres. All of which feature fantastic instrumentation, and spectacular melodies. Truly, what KEIZO and his team have managed to create here is nothing short of outstanding. I highly recommend everyone to seek this one out ASAP.
Games, films, and books are emotive forms of entertainment. As such, they get under your skin and tug at your heartstrings. Now, admittedly, it takes something special to have me invested. However, when it happens, I struggle to put that thing down. Accordingly, when I was given Endling – Extinction is Forever, that’s exactly what happened.
Developed by Herobeat Studios and published by HandyGames, this is an emotional and touching survival title. What’s more, this single-player experience highlights mankind’s destructive nature. Consequently, its harrowing tale acts as a stark reminder of the damage we’ve done to our surroundings. However, it isn’t all doom and gloom. No, instead, there are some beautifully touching moments that make all the heartache worthwhile.
Endling – Extinction is Forever is a tear-jerker.
Am I ashamed to admit that Endling – Extinction is Forever made me shed a tear? Hell no! If this game doesn’t make you well up, there is something wrong with you. This tear-jerker title is so well-considered that every layer makes you think. You’ll consider the environment, mankind’s actions, and unnecessary death. What’s more, you’ll witness love, friendship, and, sadly, death. However, this is the cruel meaning of life, even if mankind is the catalyst.
The action revolves around classic survival game mechanics. As such, death is just around the corner, and danger is but a moment away. Moreover, starvation, traps, and injuries are pivotal moments in the plot. You control a vixen who is running for her life. Her home is burning down, and she survives by luck alone. After finding a new den to hunker down in, she gives birth to 4 cute pups. These adorable babies are the centre of her universe. As such, you must feed them, protect them, and teach them new skills. However, disaster strikes as a poacher steal one of the pups. Desperate to rescue it, the vixen must begin an adventure. Yet, she must balance motherhood and heroism carefully at all times.
So cute.
A daunting world.
Endling – Extinction is Forever has done an amazing job of creating a daunting world. Subsequently, every turn highlights the damage of man’s existence. Pollution fills the air and rubbish is littered in every waterway. What’s more, traps hide in plain sight and food is unbelievably scarce. Therefore, keeping your babies alive while searching for the missing one is no mean feat.
The gameplay loop focuses on a day and night cycle, where the foxes must avoid poachers, traps, and predators. While out and about, they’ll find limited food supplies and clues to the missing pup. The vixen must follow each scent to pinpoint each location. If it is food you are searching for, a green scent line leads the way. However, if it is clues for your pup that interest you, a purple stream sets you on your way.
This basic approach worked really well, as the action was never overwhelming. Furthermore, the hunt for your pup was both daunting and interesting in equal measure. As you explore, ghostly images highlight the danger the pup has faced. This was tough to take as you can’t change the course of the game, and it feels unfairly voyeuristic. However, the safety of your remaining babies is well and truly within your grasp.
Follow the trail to save your pup.
Death is just around the corner.
If you are unfortunate, or you ignore the day-night cycle, you’ll realise that death is just around the corner. As the sunrises, you must get back to your den. Yet, if you don’t, you’ll increase the chance of being seen by humans, or risk starvation. Either way, it’s heartbreaking when it happens, so some planning is essential.
As the game wears on, the pups age and learn new skills. These allow them to move quicker, hunt for food, jump, and so forth. Each of your offspring can complete one task, so pick wisely to improve your chances. Alongside this, you are expected to explore a range of different environments as you complete your rescue mission. However, blocked paths remain out of reach until certain tasks are completed. As such, the action flows nicely and you never get too far ahead of yourself. I adored this balanced approach, even if the danger never goes away.
Endling – Extinction is Forever looks hideous but beautiful.
With so much death and destruction at its core, Endling – Extinction is Forever was always going to be tough to look at. Stunning forests have been torn down, and industrial waste is piled in its place. The barren landscape is hideous, but the game is still oddly beautiful. The combination of stark images and pastel tones is a cruel contrast. Furthermore, the juxtaposed pictures of loss and life are ominous, touching, and uncomfortable. The developer’s delivery of such a harrowing concept could have been preachy and overwhelming. Instead, it is striking, horrendous, but oddly comforting as well.
These core ideas are supported by the incredible audio. With a simple and haunting soundtrack, the music will make you weep. The airy songs capture the feeling of isolation and fear. Furthermore, each dangerous moment is accompanied by a heavy and aggressive tune. These are then matched with some incredible environmental noises. Whether it was the wind blowing, the crunching of snow, or the rustling of leaves, it all adds to the experience.
Stay away.
A wonderful game to play.
The excellent control setup makes this a wonderful game to play. The action follows a 2D side-scrolling style except for branching paths. When this happens, an almost 3D solution is used to make the transition smooth and seamless. Other than this, every other task is completed by simply pushing set buttons. This may seem underwhelming, but I loved its stripped-back style. Accordingly, if it was too complex, it would have been frustrating and would have undermined the fantastic story.
Though the story has a linear path, there are many variants that must be considered. Unfortunately, each of your pups can die, and traps, poachers, and predators can end their lives prematurely. Alongside this, starvation is a real threat. Subsequently, abandoning a dying pup to save the rest is a decision that could well happen. Therefore, no playthrough is ever the same, and this adds to longevity and replay value.
Endling – Extinction is Forever is a beautifully brutal experience.
Mankind is a plague, and games like Endling – Extinction is Forever lay it out for all to see. Consequently, every element is heartbreaking, even when they are touching and rewarding. As such, this is a game that is unbelievably cruel to play while also being an unforgettable experience. Unsurprisingly, I cherished every moment, and I recommend you buy it here! Will you rescue your pup and escape your fate? Explore, hunt, and avoid mankind’s deadly touch.
Though I’ve tackled and enjoyed many titles that lack a hearty plot, I still yearn for a great story. There is something magical about losing yourself in a fantasy world, and Little Orpheus is overflowing with sci-fi charm. Moreover, it is reminiscent of the amazing film Journey to the Center of Earth. As such, I adored its silly, ridiculous, and nostalgia-fuelled ways.
Developed by The Chinese Room and published by Secret Mode, this is an adventure platform title. What’s more, it has an episodic approach, is filled with zany characters, and relies on some well-trodden mechanics. On top of this, the fantastic soundscape and incredible visuals create a stunning world to explore. However, its safe style and repetitive gameplay sadly prevent it from truly excelling.
Just keep running.
Little Orpheus has a weird plot.
I love when a developer has creative freedom, and The Chinese Room took this idea and went crazy. As such, Little Orpheus has one of the weirdest plots I’ve experienced in a long time. With many random locations, dinosaurs, ancient structures, and wild seas to explore, you lose yourself in its madness. Furthermore, its repetitive concepts and interesting navigation mechanics create a familiar and fun world to be part of.
You control a Soviet Cosmonaut called Ivan Ivanovich. This unlikely hero was sent on a mission to the centre of the Earth. However, this was no ordinary task, as his drilling machine was powered by a nuclear weapon. The Little Orpheus tool was designed to plunge deep into Earth’s core to explore its secretive depths. As the machine is plunging through tons of rocks, an accident occurs. Disappointingly, the machine fails and pieces of it are strewn across a strange subterranean world. Now, this wouldn’t be an issue, except that the nuclear weapon is missing as well, and Ivan’s bosses won’t be happy. Roll on 3 years, and Ivan surfaces to explain how he has saved the world, but his hardass boss decides he is lying and interrogates him to find the truth. Consequently, what unfolds is a whacky tale of dinosaurs, underwater creatures, and magical beings.
Hey little fishy.
A lack of adventure.
With 9 unique chapters to experience, you’d think that the gameplay would evolve nicely. However, excluding some minor changes, the action plateaus early on. Now, this should have been a major issue. Yet, it wasn’t! Instead, the developers managed to drip-feed minor area-specific tasks to keep things ticking over nicely. Whether you were swinging from vines or chains, flicking switches, avoiding your enemy’s gaze in a game of hide and seek, or leaping across platforms, it all worked. What’s more, the fantastic stage design, quick time events, and phenomenal story were enough to keep you going.
What I also adored was how well-staged each episode was. With amazing cinematic and fantastic cliffhanger endings, it felt like a late 70s/early 80s TV series. Furthermore, the short, sharp chapters set this up to be a great casual platforming experience. Subsequently, it is a really good game to play between rounds of COD or FIFA. Moreover, its silly ways and the interesting story keep you smiling throughout. However, it was a shame that its lack of depth held it back. Accordingly, you are desperate for it to evolve past its safe and familiar style, but it rarely does. As a consequence, no matter how insane the backdrops were, the action was cheapened by the lack of depth.
Little Orpheus looks spectacular.
Though I was frustrated by the underwhelming mechanics, visually Little Orpheus is spectacular. The sheer variety of stages, the intelligent design, and the wonderful cinematic paper over the cracks. Without a doubt, this is one of the best-looking indie titles I’ve tackled for a long time. However, I couldn’t help but feel disappointed about the linear gameplay and the basic side-scrolling perspective. With such a lush world to explore, the action feels far too restrictive. I appreciate that this was originally designed for Apple mobile devices, but I was desperate to explore every element in more depth. Sadly, this never occurred, and this left me wanting.
Alongside the top-notch visuals was the unbelievably clever audio. The incredible soundscape brought every element to life. Furthermore, it added drama, tension, and suspense whenever you were being chased. On top of this, the sound effects were fun, dangerous, and amusing. This is then matched by the phenomenal acting and excellent narration. The heavy soviet accents and the booming narrator will make you laugh while drawing you into the action.
Don’t get caught in the light.
Sluggish controls.
Fortunately, each action was simple to execute and easy to understand. This is lucky, as the sluggish controls leave a lot to be desired. Furthermore, the hitboxes weren’t perfect, and this makes matters worse still. Thankfully, this wasn’t too much of a problem, as many of the puzzles and platforming moments were quite forgiving. However, I would have preferred a more consistent and reactive control setup.
Another shortcoming is the replay value. Little Orpheus incorporates a collectable system, but the thinking behind it is broken. After 5 hours or so, you’ll complete a basic but rather enjoyable first playthrough. Once this is done, you can return to collect orbs and costumes. Now, this wouldn’t normally be a bad thing, but other than the introduction of the orbs, the levels don’t change. Accordingly, the desire to run through the game in its entirety is somewhat lacking. Subsequently, the developers got this horribly wrong. I would have preferred the orbs to be included from the off, and additional stages added for some variety.
Little Orpheus is good, but it’s not great.
There are plenty of reasons to enjoy Little Orpheus. However, there are also many reasons to be put off. Unfortunately, a reliance on classic platforming tropes and repetitive action holds it back. Furthermore, the collectables debacle leaves a bad taste in your mouth. Yet, the excellent cinematic, wonderful stage design and perfect soundscape make this worthwhile. Consequently, I am happy to recommend it despite its shortcomings. Can you convince the general that you are telling the truth? Relive your daring past as you tell the world about being a hero.
Over the past 20 years, the world has seen the emergence of technologies and product categories that have significantly changed the way we live. These disruptive technologies range from cloud computing and lithium-ion batteries to 3D printing and container virtualisation.
Mobile Internet, 4G/LTE
Mobile internet is something we can’t do without in everyday life. Texting, Googling something or even visiting a casino site UK. 4G is the fourth generation of wireless mobile infrastructure used in most modern smartphones. The name LTE stands for Long-Term Evolution, a standard for “wireless high-speed data transmission for mobile phones and other data-enabled terminals (e.g. LANs)”.
These two technologies have helped smartphones and other mobile devices gain popularity. They have created an entirely new platform for computing, Internet commerce, communication and more.
Cloud computing
Before the advent of cloud computing, companies had their own networking equipment that needed to be maintained no matter how often it was used. If servers were overloaded, they had no options. Companies like Amazon Web Services offered an alternative approach, namely cloud computing.
Organizations could rent a server of the right size and capacity at any time. A fee was charged for the use of the server. As soon as it stops working, the customer stops paying. With this innovation, companies of all sizes have access to cost-effective computing and storage services, and startups can take advantage of them at a significantly lower cost.
Cloud computing has proved so revolutionary that even companies such as Netflix are using Amazon Web Services servers. Individuals store data on remote Dropbox and Google Drive servers and can access it at any time.
Touchscreen
The first touch screen was invented back in 1965, but the technology didn’t become widespread commercially until the release of the iPhone in 2007. Subsequent iPods, iPads and smartphones from other companies also used this technology. Nowadays, touchscreens can be found almost anywhere engineers can put them: at self-service kiosks for museum tickets, in gaming machines and on ordering tables in restaurants.
Wi-Fi
Of all the disruptive technologies, it’s Wi-Fi that has gone from “non-existent” to “ubiquitous” the fastest. The broadband connection used by most Wi-Fi networks originated in the United States in 1985, and then the Wi-Fi Alliance organization was formed, which helped develop the technology itself. Although Wi-Fi technology was introduced in the 1990s, it didn’t achieve popularity until the 2000s, when virtually every laptop or electronic device was equipped with Wi-Fi. Around the same time, routers and wireless streaming started to develop, and more devices supporting Wi-Fi connectivity at higher speeds began to appear. Thanks to Wi-Fi, the Internet has become an integral part of our everyday lives.
Virtual reality
Fictionists have long dreamt of virtual reality, but it’s still a long way from being widely commercialized. Nevertheless, technology has evolved considerably in recent years.
The latest generation of smartphones is compatible with budget versions of VR devices like Google Cardboard. Advanced gadgets like the Samsung Gear, HTC Vive and Oculus Rift have made the virtual reality experience more vivid, whether it’s watching a live performance or playing a game. Start-ups such as Lucid VR offer consumers devices to create VR content, such as a handheld camera for shooting in virtual reality.
Clearly, virtual reality is not yet a dominant field, but its applications are expanding. VR is not only used in entertainment, but also in B2B services such as employee training, shop planning and in medicine (for rehabilitation and patient training).
