How To Maintain Cooling Towers for Peak Performance

Andrew Edney
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How To Maintain Cooling Towers for Peak Performance

If you manage a cooling tower, you know how important it is to keep it running at peak performance. But what does it take to keep a cooling tower in top condition?

A cooling tower is an important piece of equipment in many commercial and industrial refrigeration settings. It is used to remove heat from a system or building by evaporating water. The water is pumped into the cooling tower and circulated around the interior. As the water evaporates, it removes heat from the system. The cooled water is then pumped back into the system or building to continue cooling it. When you invest in equipment like Evapco cooling towers, you’ll want to ensure optimal performance. Keep reading to learn more about maintaining cooling towers.

Inspect cooling towers regularly.

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Cooling towers are an important part of many commercial HVAC systems. To ensure peak performance, it is important to inspect these towers regularly and perform any necessary maintenance. The first step in maintaining a cooling tower is to clean it regularly. This can be done by removing the debris that has built up on the fill media and the sides of the tower. It is also important to clean out the drift eliminator, which helps remove droplets from the air stream that can cause water spots on surfaces.

The next step is to check the water level and make sure it is within the correct range. If not, adjust it accordingly using either a pump or a valve. Also, check the pH level of the water and make any necessary adjustments. Next, check all of the fans in the tower and make sure they are working properly. If not, replace them as needed. If any problems are found, repair or replace them as necessary.

Finally, monitor the weather conditions around the tower and adjust its operation accordingly. For example, if there is a lot of windy weather, increase fan speed to help compensate for lost airflow caused by wind turbulence.

Remove scale build-up as needed.

Scale is a build-up of mineral deposits on the inside of the cooling tower. This build-up has to be removed on a regular basis in order for the cooling tower to work effectively. If the scale build-up is not removed, it can cause a number of problems, including a decrease in the cooling tower’s efficiency, a decrease in water flow, and an increase in the amount of water that needs to be evaporated to achieve the desired cooling effect.

Removing the scale build-up is a process that is typically done by a professional. The build-up is removed either by manually scrubbing it off or by using a chemical cleaner. In some cases, the entire cooling tower may need to be disassembled in order to clean the entire unit properly.

If the scale build-up is not removed on a regular basis, it can cause a number of problems for the cooling tower. It is, therefore, important to make sure that the scale build-up is removed on a regular basis in order to keep the cooling tower running effectively.

Check the belts and pulleys.

One important part of maintaining cooling towers is checking the belts and pulleys. The belts and pulleys are what circulate the water through the cooling tower. If the belts and pulleys are not in good condition, the water will not circulate properly, and the cooling tower will not work as well as it should. It is important to check the belts and pulleys regularly and to replace them if they are not in good condition. If the belts and pulleys are not in good condition, the equipment in the facility may overheat, and damage may occur.

Get regular annual service.

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Annual professional service for your cooling towers is an important part of keeping them running reliably and efficiently. By having a professional service provider come out and inspect your cooling towers regularly, you can help avoid any unnecessary downtime or problems. Some of the main things that a professional service provider will look for during their inspection include dirt and debris, water condition, electrical issues, fan and motor problems, and structural integrity. If any problems are identified, the professional service provider can help recommend and implement the necessary repairs or maintenance. Regular professional service for your cooling towers is an important part of keeping them running at peak performance.

Overall, maintaining your cooling towers is important for peak performance. A commercial HVAC system running at optimal performance will benefit the operating budget. By following the proper steps and procedures, it is possible to keep the tower running at its best and avoid any potential problems.

The Best Way to Master the Art of Gambling Without Breaking a Sweat

Andrew Edney
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The Best Way to Master the Art of Gambling Without Breaking a Sweat

It doesn’t matter if you play slots, roulette, or craps. There are ways that will help you increase your chances of odds. This means you will easily be able to win lots of money without much effort. While the predefined house edge will always ensure that you lose more than you win. 

You shouldn’t take it too personally. Instead of worrying about having lower chances of winning, you should be focused on making the most out of these opportunities. You can focus on ways that will help improve your winning chances. In this article, our highlight of discussion will be the tips that will help you master the art of gambling:

  • Understand the Odds of The Game

The most important thing you need to be mindful of is that this game depends on luck. However, you can easily use different strategies to improve your chances of winning. And understanding the odds helps you do the same. Especially if you are a beginner, you need to look for games with better odds. However, the payout will initially be low. 

Your chances of winning will get scrutinized as well. Once you get more experienced, you can try new games with higher payouts. If you wish to play bet square online, you should be focused on trying to learn the chances of the odds first. 

  • Look For a Well Reputed Online Casino

Most people will not do thorough research when looking for an online casino. And what’s more, they will quickly make the first deposit without even giving it a second thought. So it’s best if you look for a well-reputed online casino before it is too late. 

For your information, the internet is even flooded with review sites that help you make the right choice. Visit one such platform so you get to know the best place to work on. 

  • Learn the Gameplay

Today, most casino games are easier to learn. Even if you are naïve, you can learn the craft quickly. You can even lay your hands at free games, so you can practice well before acquiring real money. These free games are provided as a complement to almost every game. 

There are even casinos that offer you 500 free spins, which is seldom heard of. As soon as you sign up, take advantage of it. Later, you can use these free credits to play and learn. 

  • Maintain a Budget

Never spend more than you can afford to lose. Compulsive gamblers will put everything on the line. You can play at any online casino with a defined budget. You can even initiate with pennies and proceed to millions of dollars. Fast-paced games can be accumulated at small bets. However, you should create a separate budget when you decide to gamble. 

You might even find yourself getting carried away with the excitement of betting. But don’t let that travel to your head. You need to be responsible for your money. 

  • Look For The Right Games

Today, there are various kinds of online games that you can play. The options are endless, and there’s a game for every player. The most common kind of game is slots. They usually are easy to play and have a high payout. Plus, they are fast-paced too. Then, you are also exposed to games like blackjack, baccarat, etc. We recommend you look for a game that offers the highest number of odds. 

  • Select The Right Volatility

Volatility is the metric payout that will promise the amount of money that will be paid to you. For instance, if you’re in a high volatility poker, there is a strong chance of winning. And not to forget, these games are usually for high-budget bettors. Not everyone can be a part of them with little money. 

  • Make The Most Out of Bonuses

Online casinos typically offer the best bonus so that they can grab your attention. They are usually provided to attract more people into the game. For instance, when looking for online pokies Australia real money, don’t forget to choose a site that offers an impressive bonus initially. Now is a good time to check out the bonuses available online, so you can make your decision.

Review: DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms

Daniel Waite
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Review: DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms

DreamWorks has created some incredible movies. Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and How to Train a Dragon are, but to name a few. My children adore the colourful animation and the funny plots. However, as an adult, I appreciate the sneaky jokes and the hilarious one-liners. Consequently, when I was given DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms to review, I wasn’t disappointed. I knew there was a chance it would be a poor rip-off of the How to Train a Dragon franchise, but I was willing to take a chance. Fortunately, I wasn’t left disappointed.

Developed by AHEARTFULOFGAMES and published by leading children’s game publisher, Outright Games, this is an adventure title. It is a simple affair that is aimed at the 7+ market. However, younger family members may cope with the early stages and less demanding moments. Yet, to get the most out of it, I would let older siblings tackle the action. It uses the key protagonists from the How to Train a Dragon series, but no prior knowledge is needed. Thankfully, everything is well explained and nothing is left to chance. Accordingly, you can focus on the story and the straightforward gameplay. 

DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms has an interesting selection of dragons.
Meet the team.

DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms is nicely balanced.

Outright Games have published a vast range of children’s games and they get unnecessary stick. People say their games are too easy or unnecessarily simple. However, I disagree. Many gamers misunderstand the market they are aimed at and make many poor judgements. Yet, those same people will hopefully look at this title and realise it is more rounded and nicely balanced. The developers behind DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms have used a gradual difficulty curve to suck you in and keep you playing.

The action focuses on the story of Thunder and the quest to find the missing Night Lights. By exploring 5 unique realms, and tackling many wild dragons, Thunder and his 3 friends will defeat the enormous bosses and save Thunder’s family. This may sound pretty basic, but the gameplay mechanics and loop have some nice variety that keeps you hooked. Each of the 4 heroes has special powers that overcome each opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. What’s more, a progression tree, challenge mode, and 2 special paths must be completed on each level. Subsequently, there is plenty to do and lots of things to find en route.

Each dragon plays their part.
Heat the crystals and clear the way.

Crystals and special attacks. 

Each dragon’s progress is dependent on you finding and collecting 4 coloured crystals. These are then spent on improving strength and health, and unlocking new skills and attacks. This is important, as the dragons become increasingly stronger in the latter stages. Furthermore, if you wish to complete the challenge mode, you’ll need the strongest team possible. 

Once you understand this basic concept, the gameplay flows in a semi-linear fashion as you remove obstacles, defeat waves of foes, and finish at a coloured crystal. The main path leads to a white cluster of crystals, whereas a secondary hidden route ends in an orange cluster of crystals. Once the secondary option is found, you unlock the challenge mode. This option comprises an array of special challenges, such as double damage, constant health drain, and so forth. 

The core combat mechanics rely upon an arena-based approach where a set number of dragons must be defeated. At first, this will not challenge you, but as the game wears on, your foes are stronger, tougher, and more varied. Consequently, you’ll have to use different teammates to overcome them, and the risk of failure is a lot higher. This challenge makes the gameplay loop much more enjoyable and will test younger family members to their limits.

DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms looks great.

Many children’s games offer moderate graphics and this disappoints many players. Fortunately, DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms looks great. Its interesting stage design and varied character models are fantastic to look at. What’s more, the attack animation is nice, and varied landscapes keep things fresh. On top of this, I enjoyed exploring each level, as the paths are well laid out and easy to follow.

Mostly, I can say the same for the audio. The music is enjoyable and hits the right notes. Moreover, it adds drama and danger at the right moments. Furthermore, the sound effects are good and rarely do they become tiresome. Sadly, though, the narration is a little dull and repetitive, which was disappointing. Consequently, the use of the same soundbites didn’t help to reduce the tedium or monotony. 

Will each dragon turn out to be a friend or foe?
Friend or foe?

Excellent controls. 

This genre is usually so dumbed down that the controls can be clumsy and frankly awful. Luckily, I experienced none of these issues. The excellent UI and responsive controls made everything flow nicely. The combat had distinct elements of hack ‘n slash, and changing between dragons was easy to achieve. What’s more, the flying element was great and the occasional QTE or boss battle was enjoyable. In short, the developers have done a great job with their controls and my kids found it easy to play.

Thanks to the challenge mode and progression tree, there are plenty of reasons to return. If you wish to see every element of the game, you’ll need to invest plenty of time and effort. However, if you simply want to get to the finishing line, around 5 hours should be enough to see the end credits.

DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms is a great family title. 

I love this genre and will always review anything from Outright Games. For me, their titles rarely disappoint and my kids love every moment. Yes, occasionally as an adult they miss the mark, but for children, their games are phenomenal. DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of the Nine Realms continues this fine approach and I can’t fault it. For this reason, I recommend you buy it here! Can you and Thunder’s friends save the day? Defeat each dragon, unlock each realm, and save the Night Lights. 

Review: HONOR 70

Andrew Edney
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Review: HONOR 70

Here is our review of the new HONOR 70 Smartphone.

Designed for vlogging enthusiasts, the HONOR 70 is HONOR’s latest addition to its high-end N Series smartphone line up. The stylish device debuts with Solo Cut mode, which lets users easily produce vlogs that spotlight a specific person in a group through built-in Person Re-identification Technology. With Dual Video Streaming, HONOR 70 can record two videos simultaneously, with one featuring a single subject and the other capturing the full group. 

Capturing high quality vlogs is easy with the HONOR 70, thanks to its powerful Dual Main Camera that comprises a 54MP IMX800 Super Sensing Main Camera with a large 1/1.49-inch IMX800 Sensor and a 50MP Ultra-Wide & Macro camera. The new smartphone is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G Plus 5G and supports GPU Turbo X and OS Turbo X, delivering smooth performance and a responsive experience across a range of heavy-duty tasks, including video editing for vloggers who are always on the move. 

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The HONOR 70 looks great and is fairly lightweight. It’s got a curved glass and a beautifully sharp AMOLED screen and is very slim, so very easy to slip into your pocket and forget about.

The rear of the HONOR 70 has two separate camera rings, one with the new Sony IMX800 sensor which delivers a whopping 54MP and the other is an ultra-wide camera with a 50MP sensor – so you’ll be getting some really quality pictures using those! The front camera is a 32MP one too! The HONOR 70 can also record 4K video at 30fps.

The HONOR 70 gets a good day’s use of the battery – obviously depending on what you are using the phone for will depend on exactly how much battery life you get. In the box there is a 66W fast charger so you can quickly and easily add around 50% charge to the phone in around 20 minutes or so. One thing we noticed that was missing though was the ability to wireless charge – this sees to be the norm these days so it was surprising it wasn’t included. That said, it would likely have made the phone larger!

Sound wise, there is a mono speaker at the base of the HONOR 70. It’s not great to be honest, but it will do. That said, pair it with headphones and you won’t worry!

Last thing to watch out for is that there is no IP rating on the HONOR 70, so basically keep it away from water!

The HONOR 70 is the latest smartphone from HONOR and with a great price for a great spec, it’s one to take seriously.

The HONOR 70 is available now priced around £479.99 for the 8GB+256GB version and comes in either Midnight Black, Emerald Green or Crystal Silver.

You can learn more about the HONOR 70 from the HONOR website here.

A Closer Look at Geomag E-Motion

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at Geomag E-Motion

With Christmas just a few months a way, we take a closer look at the Geomag E-Motion.

Geomag is not just a construction set, but it’s also an educational game within the STEM category which will encourage the development of hand-eye coordination as well as strengthening visual sensitivity and attention span. It’s the perfect magnetic toy for kids but also super fun for adults too. This set is part of the Geomag Green collection which forms the 100% recycled plastics range. 

The E-motion Panels set uses the strength and energy of the Geomag magnets and spheres to build crazy spinning tops and suspended models that will spin for ages.  Geomag magnetic kits are the perfect way to express your creativity. There is virtually no limit to the creations that you can make. All you need is a kit and an active mind.

Whats in the box?

  • Storage box / Carry case
  • 12 metallic balls
  • 12 yellow magnetic rods
  • 8 red and orange triangular panels
  • 2 red and orange square panels
  • 1 orange pentagon panel

Geomag E-Motion is available now priced around £20.00 and is aimed at ages 5 and above.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

A Closer Look at Geomag Magicube Magnetic Blocks & Wheels Set

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at Geomag Magicube Magnetic Blocks & Wheels Set

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at the Geomag Magicube Magnetic Blocks & Wheels Set.

Invite plenty of construction fun with this 13-Piece Magnetic Blocks & Wheels set from the Geomag Magicube range.

Let’s build! Children will love creating different shapes and structures with this easy-to-handle block building set. With magnetic connections on all sides, there are plenty of opportunities for fun. Plus, this set includes a set of wheels to get their creations on the move.

Grown-ups will appreciate that this block‐building set helps children develop their hand-eye coordination and cause and effect thinking. Plus, imagining new designs supports their creativity.

Product features:

  • Engaging, magnetic block-building set for hours of fun
  • Set includes: 5x blocks and 4x wheels
  • Stimulating shapes and colours
  • Fun and challenging
  • Magnetic connection on all sides
  • Wheels included
  • Made from 100% recycled plastic
  • Supports hand-eye coordination, cause and effect thinking and creativity

Suitable for ages 12 months and over.

The Geomag Magicube Magnetic Blocks & Wheels Set is available now priced around £29.99 and is aimed at ages 1 to 5.

Tips for Creating Effective Content for Your Website

Andrew Edney
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Tips for Creating Effective Content for Your Website

Your website is often the first impression potential customers will have of your business. That’s why it’s important to make sure your site’s content is well-written, informative, and engaging. Top website creators in Brisbane can assist you in achieving a professional and captivating online presence. Creating content for your website can be a daunting task. However, with a little planning and creativity, you can quickly and easily create content that is both effective and engaging.

Optimize your website for SEO.

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When you’re creating website content, it’s important to think about how you can optimize it for search engine optimization (SEO). This will help ensure that your content is seen by as many people as possible, and it can also help you to rank higher on search engine results pages (SERPs). You can use a resource like the white label SEO tool to help improve your SEO strategy.

You’ll want to make sure that your titles and descriptions include relevant keywords for your content. This will help search engines index and rank your content more effectively. It’s also important to use keyword-rich headings and subheadings. Just like with your titles and descriptions, using keywords in your headings and subheadings can also help search engines to index and rank your content.

Linking to other pages on your website is also important and can help search engines to discover more of your content. It can also help to increase the time that visitors spend on your website. Similarly, external linking to other websites can also be beneficial for SEO. This can help to show search engines that your website is a valuable resource.

You’ll also want to make sure to promote your content across the web, on social media, and through email marketing. This will help to increase the reach of your content and improve your SEO.

Use infographics and other multimedia elements.

One way to make your website content more engaging and effective is to use infographics and other multimedia elements. Infographics are visual representations of data or information, and they can be a great way to communicate complex concepts in an easy-to-understand manner. Additionally, multimedia elements such as videos and slideshows can help break up the monotony of text-heavy webpages and keep visitors engaged.

When creating infographics or other multimedia elements, it’s important to make sure that the content is accurate and well-researched. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the visuals are appealing and easy to understand. You may want to consider hiring a professional graphic designer if you’re not confident in your own design skills. If you’re looking for inspiration, there are plenty of online resources that showcase excellent examples of effective infographic design.

Break up your content into small, manageable chunks.

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When creating content for your website, it’s important to break it up into small, manageable chunks. This will make the content easier to read and more likely to be remembered. It will also help keep your visitors engaged, ensuring that they stay on your site longer.

In order to break up your content effectively, you should use headings and subheadings to organize it. This will help your readers scan through the content quickly and find the information they are looking for. You can also use lists and bullets to highlight key points.

Additionally, you should vary the length of your paragraphs. Keep them short if you want to grab your reader’s attention quickly, or write longer paragraphs if you need more space to explain a concept. No matter what length you choose, be sure to use clear and concise language so that everyone can understand your message.

Overall, creating effective content for your website is important for a number of reasons. First, it can help improve your website’s search engine ranking, which can result in more web traffic. Additionally, effective content can help keep your website visitors engaged and interested, which can lead to more conversions. Finally, well-written content can also help establish your website as a credible source of information in your industry. By following these tips, you can create effective content that will help your website stand out from the competition.

Review: The Tarnishing of Juxtia

Xavier Berry
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Review: The Tarnishing of Juxtia

The Tarnishing of Juxtia is a side-scrolling adventure game that mixes in elements found in the soul’s genre. For those who are unaware of what that means, the soul’s genre is known for its difficulty by testing a player’s patience through tough combat instances that reward the player with an in game currency that can be utilized to level up certain attributes and improve their avatar. When players lose in combat, they are usually sent back to a check point and lose all the “exp” they earned and are tasked with making it back to the spot where they met an untimely end. If the player can get back to this spot, they are given their exp back and can continue their journey but if they fall once again before getting back their stuff, they lose their exp and have to make it all back up again. With the brief explanation of what a souls game out of the way, let’s talk about The Tarnishing of Juxtia and how it tries to be different than the many other games that flood this genre.

Story

The Tarnishing of Juxtia starts with players being reincarnated by a goddess named Juxtia and are sent through a mini tutorial to introduce them to the gameplay and get the player accustomed to what they will be dealing with over the course of the game. As players journey through the world, they will meet a cast of characters who will spend their time unfolding the lore around the two kingdoms and the ruins that surround them. There is voice acting for some of the characters and this makes each encounter feel a little livelier.

Juxtia, the goddess of the world, explains the history of the world as well as gives the player their task to complete along the journey. Once the game begins, players see their avatar rise from the ground and sets off on the tough road ahead of them.  

Gameplay

Gameplay can be broken up into two different categories and that will be how this review is explained. With an upgrade system, skill tree, and item pickups around the world, it will be easier if we split the two things up.      

            Out of Combat

            When players are not in combat, they will be traversing the dark and gloomy world. There are many characters that the player will come across such as the brandmaker who gives the players their first power skill or the Weaveress who increases the number of times players can heal themselves. There will also be occasions where the player must handle platforming puzzles as well as getting through traps located in each area.  As players unlock new areas on the map and open up new passageways, they will also unlock new weapons and armor sets to use.

            Each weapon type has its own unique feel to it and can be utilized to fit any players particular playstyle. For instance, I preferred to use the rapier type weapon since it was fast and torn down the enemy’s stamina bar quickly and it paired well with the standard sword. The promise of finding new weapons and armor sets had me exploring every little cove that I came across, but the linear gameplay ensured that I didn’t get too lost along the way.

            There are different areas that players can level up that impact different attributes such as health, stamina, and damage out put as well as other stats. Since each encounter may cause a player to lose out on much needed exp, it is important that players remember to spend it when they can or else, they might just lose it all due to a poorly mistimed jump or an unfortunate run in with one of the monsters in the game. 

            In combat

            Combat pits players against a multitude of enemies that all have various abilities and its up to the player to determine the best approach to each fight. Carelessness can cause a player to loose a lot of experience that they have built up so it is important to be cautious about each fight as well as look for any surprise ambushes that may occur. The Tarnishing of Juxtia has players also keeping an eye on their stamina bar but there is a mechanic to reward players for each enemy they take down. After connecting enough consecutive attacks, they can utilize the energy rush system to get extra stamina which allows players to attack without working about running out for a short period of time. This is especially useful when it comes to the bosses since they will present a major challenge for the player.  

            Each weapon type that is picked up along the way has its own weight and feel to it, with heavy weapons being slower with more damage while lighter weapons are faster but do less damage. Players can switch between two different weapons and are also equipped with magic spells and special abilities they can pick up from bosses. This means that the players arsenal has a lot that can be mixed around, but the unfortunate part of the combat is that the animations don’t feel as fluid as they could. It took me a few fights to realize that the initial sword has a combo string that can be used. There are also crossbow enemies that have arrows that feel as if they can track the player, even after being fired, so it felt like a guaranteed hit each time.

            Players will have to navigate platforming sections while also handling different enemy types and sometimes this juggling act can be a hassle and result in some unnecessary deaths. While there are certain fights that I lost due to a skill issue, there also was a fair share of deaths that had me ready to toss the steam deck across the room out of frustration since it was a hit that shouldn’t have landed or an unclear hitbox. For example, the first boss has a wind up attack but if the player is located behind the enemy they are still able to take damage.

Overall Experience   

With a simple story and a play time of roughly 20 hours, The Tarnishing of Juxtia is a fun bite sized adventure for those looking for something with a little difficulty to it. There aren’t too many gripes to be had with the game but one of the biggest flaws to be seen is the fact that combat can start to feel repetitive outside of boss fights and some of the enemies have some outlandish attacks that may feel unfair to some players. This is definitely a game worth picking up and is a wonderful addition to the ever growing genre of souls like games but with its own charm to make it stand out from the rest.

Review: Despot’s Game

Daniel Waite
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Review: Despot’s Game

The rogue-lite/like genre is a cruel bastard. It’ll suck you in, chew you up, and spit you out. However, this brutality makes it moreish and inspires hardcore gamers to keep going. But what would happen if you crossed the harshness of Smash TV with a seamlessly never-ending labyrinth of doom? You’d get Despot’s Game, that’s what!

Developed by Konfa Games and published by tinyBuild, this is a tough rogue-lite adventure title. Furthermore, there are distinct RNG elements that make the action infuriating. As such, this is your standard rogue-lite game, but it’s on steroids. All the brutality and unfair mechanics are jacked up, and failure, disappointment and rage quitting are guaranteed.

The planning stage of Despot's Game is key.
Plan ahead and win every battle, hopefully.

Despot’s Game is simple cruel. 

Unlike other rogue-lite titles, Despot’s Game doesn’t rely on button mashing or platforming elements. No, instead it has some minor tactical and strategy points, a heavy reliance on luck, and oodles of arena-based combat. What’s more, it can be “enjoyed” solo or online against other insane players. Mostly, it retains its core beliefs, but the online mode is much more refined. Subsequently, it is easier to understand, but somehow, it is much crueller. 

The story focuses on an evil being who takes pleasure from mankind’s downfall. He asks you to command an army of people as you tackle his deadly labyrinthine world. As you try to complete each level, you must purchase new people, buy new weapons, upgrade each shop, and set the formation of your merry band. Moreover, you’ll encounter waves of monsters, special rooms, and boss battles. If you succeed, you’ll become stronger, but so will your foes. If you fail, it is game over, but you retain key items from that run. Accordingly, the next playthrough is easier if you have the patience to see it through.

The mutations are game-changing.
Make the most of your mutations.

You are the general, but luck may not be on your side. 

As RNG is a key component, victory is always in the lap of the gods. As such, you can be tactically perfect, and still fail. Now, this may not sound appealing, but I loved its unfair nature. As the general of this makeshift army, you are responsible for many things. You must decide the formation, which weapons to use, and when to implement potions and healing items. Furthermore, you need to maintain food, and potentially sacrifice your men. Yes, you read that right, cannibalism is a thing in Despot’s Game. After all, hungry troops are useless troops, and no one really cares about a newbie.

Once you’re happy with your setup, you move to a new arena. Here, you must sit back and watch the battle unfold. As I said, Despot’s Game is unlike other rogue-lite titles. Instead of full control over each encounter, the action is automated. Accordingly, once a fight begins, there are only two outcomes: success or failure. However, things are rarely this simple, and the developers have brilliantly mixed things up.

With the inclusion of mutations and the use of potions, you can make your own luck. You’ll be able to bring people back from the dead, heal your troops, make your people stronger, and so forth. Whatever you choose will impact your chances, so you must pick wisely. 

Despot’s Game is distinctly old-school. 

One of my favourite things about Despot’s Game is its old-school appearance. I loved Smash TV, and this looks very similar. Now, it isn’t as gory, but this matters not. Instead, the claustrophobic arenas, the refined sprites, and the excellent UI make it great to play. Moreover, the stark contrast of colours makes it striking and easy to look at. On top of this, the automation of each battle makes this horrifically voyeuristic, and this was weirdly enjoyable.

Alongside this, the strangely chilled-out music and simple sound effects juxtapose the combat madness. With eerie tones, and crunching combat, you’ll wince and frown as your band of men and women is smashed to pieces. Furthermore, the gentle pace of the music creates an oddly laid-back experience that doesn’t match the action. However, this mattered not, as I enjoyed it, nonetheless.

Despot's Game has some very weird NPCs
Oh wow, that creature is ugly.

Confusion.

Though a fairly in-depth tutorial talks you through the fundamentals, I was still confused. Consequently, my opening gambit was short-lived and frustrating. Yet, once I got to grips with the finer details, I loved the simplicity of the UI and the easy-to-manage tactics. As such, with a little practice and trial and error, you’ll overcome minor hurdles and you’ll experience an intuitive and responsive game.

Further to this, no matter how much you play it, there is always a twist in the action. Different formations and weapons result in unique results, and the mutations add a little spice. On top of this, the King of the Hill mode is challenging and brutal. Talking of challenges, there is a range of additional tasks that can be purchased separately. These hardcore objectives will test your resolve and add to the already moreish gameplay.

Despot’s Game is a fantastic pixelated rogue-lite. 

The Game Pass service is expanding at an exponential rate. Consequently, it is hard to keep up and choosing the right title can be tough. Luckily, though, Despot’s Game is quick to pick up and unbelievably addictive. As such, this is an excellent indie title that is surprisingly in-depth and interesting. Moreover, if you then consider the fantastic multiplayer action and the challenge mode, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Therefore, I can easily recommend that you buy it here! Can you build an army and escape the labyrinthine world? Purchase humans, buy guns, and battle waves of foes. 

Preview: Rhythm Sprout

Daniel Waite
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Preview: Rhythm Sprout

Ever since the dawn of PaRrappa the Rapper, I have loved rhythm-based games. This evolved to Guitar Hero and Rock Band, but I always have a soft spot for colourful and silly titles. Consequently, when a demo for Rhythm Sprout: Sick Beats & Bad Sweets became available, I couldn’t resist.

Developed by SURT and published by tinyBuild, this is an insanely addictive rhythm-based title. What’s more, it has a stupid story, some food-inspired protagonists, and plenty of challenging action. Like its peers, it demands accuracy, memory recall, and an awful lot of patience. However, this leads to rewarding gameplay, plenty of replay value, and endless belly laughs.

Rhythm Sprout has some fun but challenging QTEs
Overcome the QTEs and add to your score.

Rhythm Sprout has a ridiculous story of deception.

You are Sprout, the “Chosen Onion”. As such, a lot of pressure and expectation land on your shoulders. Wait, do onions have shoulders? Well, no matter the answer, people demand a lot of you, nevertheless. Consequently, you spend your time exploring the colourful kingdom while helping the locals. Moreover, you are requested to help the King with many tasks. However, what you don’t know is that you are being deceived, and your world is being turned upside down. Yet, this doesn’t faze this vegetable hero, and by following the beat of the music, he’ll complete every task and be deemed a hero.

So, the plot is totally sane and there is absolutely nothing bizarre about it in any way. Just in case you’ve missed the sarcasm, Rhythm Sprout is crazy! But I loved the insanity of it all, and it was only beaten by the maddening action. The rhythmical mechanics will test you in ways you never thought imaginable. Accordingly, to make matters worse, it shouldn’t be so tough, as effectively, you have minimal inputs to master, and each level should be a cinch. However, in reality, the fast tempo will push you throughout. On top of this, you’ll need the reactions of a racing snake and the dexterity of a superhero. Other than this, it’s pretty easy to play. Again, sarcasm, just in case you missed it.

Will you be able to score 3 stars on every level?
Can you get 3 stars?

5 levels to give you a taste. 

This demo does a phenomenal job of highlighting key elements of the full game. The rounded gameplay and ever-changing mechanics highlight what to expect from the finished product. Though the story wasn’t sequential, and little of it made sense, it mattered not. I enjoyed the bits I saw, and I loved the zany characters. Moreover, the snippets of information opened your eyes to what will be. 

Each level flows in a similar fashion. Following a set path, you must match your button mashing with either a yellow, pink, or blue indicator. Each press is graded, and you are scored accordingly. Furthermore, chaining together large combinations of perfect presses will multiply your score further. On top of this, you can use a special onion power to either replenish your health or improve your score. If that wasn’t enough, each stage is littered with QTEs that mix things up while increasing the challenge. 

If this wasn’t enough, the developers have added a grading system for each level and special modes to “remix” every stage. By changing the core mechanics, you’ll experience a fresh approach, and this pushes you further. This was fantastic, as it’ll keep you playing and prevent boredom.

Rhythm Sprout is hand-drawn and great to look at. 

Hand-drawn aesthetics are my guilty pleasure. Subsequently, I adore any game that masters the artistry. Luckily, Rhythm Sprout does just that with its funky characters and interesting stage design. Furthermore, the colour palette is incredibly vivid and matches the insanity of the plot. However, what was most impressive was how smoothly it ran. In a game about accuracy and rhythm, you need it to be on point at all times. Thankfully, it never faltered and I have high hopes for its full release.

What was also amazing was the original soundtrack. The funky music will have you tapping your feet as you get sucked into the vegetable world. I’m not ashamed to admit that I became obsessed with each song, and like the visuals, I can’t wait to experience the rest of the action.

Rhythm Sprout has a plot full of deceitful characters.
Will you believe everything the king says?

Excellent controls and gamepad support. 

I love the developer’s inclusive approach. With simple controls and full gamepad support, they’ve accounted for both the console and PC community. This was an excellent decision that ensures everyone is happy. Furthermore, no matter which option you choose, they were both easy to pick up and responsive to use. 

Longevity and replay value are high on the developer’s priorities. Yet, I can’t say how long the game will be, nor the depths it’ll explore. However, in this demo, you experience the excellent additional modes that give you a taste of what’s to come.

Rhythm Sprout is a brilliant must-play game. 

This demo highlights the importance of the Steam Next Fest event. Without it, players may have overlooked this brilliant must-play title. While the demo is free, I implore you to try it! What’s more, while you are there, why not add it to your wishlist? Can you save the kingdom? Feel the beat, help the locals, and overcome the disrespectful lies. 

Summary.

Rhythm Sprout is a fun but tough rhythmical title that’ll push you to your limits. This short demo gives you an insight into what to expect upon full release. I can’t wait to take on the final product even if I risk losing my cool and my sanity.

(Reviewed on PC using Steam. Only available on PC)

A Closer Look at SpinParty

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at SpinParty

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at SpinParty from Ideal.

SpinParty is the ultimate trivia game where giving the wrong can still make you a winner… the question is how much are you willing to bet on your knowledge?

SpinParty is played in rounds, with players or teams taking turns as the SpinMaster, reading out the questions and deciding whether or not to shift the answers given on the unique rotating gameboard.  But don’t forget, you don’t always have to be right, anyone could be bluffing at any time!

Do you write down the right answer and hope you keep it, or do you give the wrong answer and hope it lands in front of someone else? The SpinMaster holds the power, but can you bluff your way to success?

With more than 1,400 fascinating questions and fun factoids, be the first to collect 18 tokens to become the ultimate SpinParty Champion.

SpinParty is a fun game for all the family, you can play with 3 or more players (up to 6) and is aimed at ages 14 and above. With more than 1,400 questions there is a lot of replayability with the game and you will have hours and hours of fun with it!

SpinParty from Ideal is available now priced around £54.99 and you can buy it from Smyths Toys here.

A Closer Look at Topple Off!

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at Topple Off!

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Topple Off! from Ideal.

Simple to learn, but difficult to master, Topple Off is the addictive game you will find hard to beat.

Follow Topple Off’s voice commands, placing the handle on the correct base plate, but as the instructions get quicker and more confusing, can you keep up without making the orb topple?

With four different variants, it’s sure to keep you and your friends occupied for hours!

You can play on your own or with friends, Topple Off! is a fun game for all the family, ages 8 and up.

Topple Off! from Ideal is available now priced around £24.99 and you can buy it from Smyths Toys here.

News: H3PRO hybrid

Daniel Waite
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News: H3PRO hybrid

With Christmas just around the corner, every gamer is compiling a list for Santa. However, if this person considers themself an elite member of the community, they won’t settle for cheap products. Instead, they’ll want a market-leading device that blows its competitors out of the water. Here is where the H3PRO Hybrid headset from EPOS comes into play. This phenomenal device has it all and makes every gaming experience a pleasure.

Available in a range of colours, this headset is beautifully comfortable, looks amazing, and is jam-packed with features. However, it has a price point to match, and some may be put off. Yet, I urge you to keep reading, as they truly are a special peripheral that stands out from its peers. For PC and PlayStation users, the H3PRO hybrid offers truly wireless usability with no compromises. However, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or Mac gamers will need to revert to a wired connection. Thankfully, this matters not as the sound quality, noise cancellation, and amazing microphone suffer no ill effects.

The H3PRO hybrid is a premium device with features to match.

Gaming headsets offer a range of generic features. Accordingly, these days, most headphones are extremely good. But when you are paying a top price, you want much better than just good. Luckily, the H3PRO hybrid is a premium device with features to match. There is secure lag-free audio, passive high-frequency noise cancellation, an ANC slider to maximise your focus and reactions, and finally 7.1 surround sound with the EPOS gaming suite for PC.

Thanks to the low latency dongle, gamers experience lag-free and secure audio. What’s more, the detachable microphone and dual microphone technology deliver crystal clear sound and this is perfect for competitive FPS gaming. Alongside this, the 7.1 surround sound and noise cancellation envelop you in a truly immersive experience. As such, you’ll lose yourself in every game you play.

Incredible build quality. 

A premium device must be built to last. Thankfully, the H3PRO hybrid is robust, comfortable, and feels substantial. The ear cups are large, cool, and form a fantastic seal. Furthermore, they are lightweight and the headband can be adjusted with ease. On top of this, you can pick from 3 colours. There is a choice of black, white, or racing green with gold accents. The latter option is available exclusively to Currys and can be purchased here!

The final area of note is the fantastic battery life. A single charge provides up to 30 hours of wireless gaming on the low-latency dongle, and 19 hours with ANC. Up to 38 hours of audio on a Bluetooth® connection, 22 hours with ANC. Up to 29 hours with the 3.5 mm cable, and 19 hours with ANC. This ensures that your headset is always juiced up and ready for long gaming sessions. Unlike its peers, this will keep going for hours and won’t disappoint.

The H3PRO hybrid is a phenomenal choice. 

Gamers can be tough to buy for, but why not take the stress out of the equation and consider this headset? The H3PRO hybrid is wonderfully comfortable, brilliantly versatile, and delivers exceptional audio quality. Furthermore, it is built to last, has an amazing battery life, and comes in a choice of 3 colours. If this peripheral takes your fancy, why not click here to get more information?

(More information on EPOS can be found here!) 

Review: Food Truck Tycoon

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Food Truck Tycoon

Running a busy business is hard work. It takes a lot of sweat, blood, and tears to be successful. However, no matter how much effort you put in, there is always someone who isn’t happy. Consequently, you must strive to improve, and not let the negative energy bring you down. In Food Truck Tycoon, you must do exactly that as you aim to become the best fast-food vendor in the business.

Developed and published by Baltoro Games, this is a business management simulation title. What’s more, there is an arcade element to the gameplay thanks to a time attack mode. Like many other food-based games, the action is hectic and demanding. However, the results are rewarding and the concept is addictive. As such, you’ll struggle to put it down once you unlock the first level.

Take too long and your customers will become angry.
Oh no, they are not happy!

Food Truck Tycoon relies on its gameplay. 

With very little in the way of a story, Food Truck Tycoon relies heavily on its excellent gameplay. Effectively, you are the owner of a fast food truck. Here, you must serve food and drink to every customer who comes your way. As the game starts, the requests are simple and easy to fulfil. However, the further you progress, the more people you must serve, and the more extreme the orders. Subsequently, it quickly gets out of hand and you must stay calm if you wish to succeed.

This is the crux of your responsibilities, and it was phenomenal. No matter the madness, you will acknowledge every order and get to work. Some of your punters simply want a refreshing beverage, whereas others will demand a three-course meal. The ingredients normally comprise a healthy selection of hot dogs, fries, corn dogs, ice cream, and bread. Yet, some people are watching their waistlines and they will order a delightful salad to go with their fatty mains. Whatever they fancy, you must prepare it.

This doesn’t sound so bad, but the food takes time to cook, and the customers keep coming. Consequently, it is your job to keep them happy while they fill their faces. If everything goes according to plan, you’ll receive the maximum amount of cash for each meal and you’ll be awarded 3 stars. Yet, any minor slip-up or wasted food will impact your final score. Accordingly, it’s really important not to make a mistake.

Food Truck Tycoon demands that you think fast and plan ahead.
Work fast and make everyone happy.

Three modes and plenty of upgrades. 

Now, I loved how the game panned out. Yet, I was really impressed by the variety of modes on offer. With 150 levels to enjoy across the normal, special, and time attack stages, you are spoilt for choice. What was particularly great was how the normal mode drip-fed the new elements to get you used to the difficulty curve. However, the special mode wasn’t this kind. Instead, it chucks you in at the deep end and allows you to fend for yourself. On top of this, the time attack option will test your resolve and demand you aim for the top of the table.

Fortunately, you can make things a little easier by saving your cash and upgrading your equipment. By doing this, you can cook more food, automate your drinks section, and make life much easier. Furthermore, if you improve your condiments, you earn more money without working harder. Subsequently, this is a great investment if you wish to improve your earning potential. Upgrades include more frying pans, additional drinks dispensers, and hotplates to keep everything toasty.

Food Truck Tycoon looks extremely camp.

The game plays out from a first-person and fixed-screen perspective. As you look out from your truck, your customers appear from the edges of the screen. This worked really well, as it reduced the clutter and made things manageable. What’s more, the orders were easy to follow, and navigating the ingredients wasn’t a problem at all. What was hilarious, however, was the very camp nature of the customers. No matter how many times I saw them, I always chuckled. With their bright expressions and sauntering ways, they add a fun element to the hectic madness that unfolds.

The jovial atmosphere continues with the upbeat audio. The relentless soundtrack plays out during every stage. Now, this should have been annoying, but it never was. Instead, it worked really well with the theme and it complemented the sound effects. The constant sizzle of food and the gurgle of soft drinks add to the madness. Yet, there is nothing complicated about it, and its simplicity is what makes it so brilliant.

Work hard and make everyone smile.
Plenty of stuff going on, but everyone is happy.

Fantastic controls and a considered UI. 

With plenty of stuff going on, it could have easily gotten out of hand. Fortunately, the fantastic controls and considered UI work perfectly. Alongside this, the responsive inputs and excellent setup help to overcome minor niggles. Consequently, you’ll be able to select every ingredient with ease as you cook every meal.

With plenty of achievements to unlock, 150 stages to complete, 3 modes to overcome, and 450 stars to win, this will keep you going. On top of this, there are upgrades to buy and plenty of decorations to unlock. In short, it has lots to do and it’ll keep you playing for hours.

Food Truck Tycoon was surprisingly good. 

Having played many cooking-based games, I had preconceived ideas. As such, I thought it would be clumsy, difficult, and frustrating. Fortunately, I was miles off the mark as Food Truck Tycoon was surprisingly good. Yes, its appeal will be limited, but I enjoyed my time with it. Accordingly, I recommend you buy it here! Can you run a successful fast-food business? Upgrade your equipment, keep your customers happy, and earn bundles of cash. 

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