Here we take a look at the Free League Alien RPG Core Rules Evolved Edition book.
Built upon feedback from thousands of players over five years of adventures, ALIEN: The Roleplaying Game Evolved Edition delivers an updated and streamlined version of the ALIEN RPG fans know and love. The updated core rules include new artwork, new content, and a variety of new tools for players and Game Masters alike, all fully compatible with previous releases and game material.
Features: • A bold new look and feel, with all new page layouts by Johan Nohr, new interior maps and artwork, and a stunning new core book cover by renowned artist Colm Geoghegan. • Last survivor, a robust solo mode designed by masters of the solo trade, Shawn Tomkin and Matt Click. • Revised and expanded core and combat rules for talents, stress, ammo, skirmishes, and more!
The Free League Alien RPG Core Rules Evolved Edition book is due for publication on November 25th 2025 and will retail for around £42.99.
If you are fan of role playing games and Alien then this is a must for your collection, or give it to someone for Christmas.
Here we review the GXT 872 Xyra TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.
Hot swappable, padded TKL mechanical gaming keyboard for ultimate customisation.
Features
Gasket-mounted mechanical gaming keyboard for dampened sound and soft-feel keystrokes
Fully equipped with hot swappable 5-pin Leobog linear 60M switches, and hot port also compatible with 5-pin switches
N-key rollover anti-ghosting functionality registers an unlimited number of keystrokes at the same time
TKL layout offers more room for mouse movement and extra desk space
2 mix colour design keycaps and full RGB with 16.8 million colour combinations allows you to play in style
Included detachable coiled USB-A-C cable and 2-in-1 key and switch puller to fully personalise this keyboard to your preferences
12 Fn keys; keys to keep your media, gaming and office functions under control –
Included software to program keys and lighting to fit your gaming style
What’s in the box?
The box contains the keyboard, a Key and switch puller, Coiled USB-A-C Cable and a User Guide.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The GXT 872 Xyra TKL keyboard is a compact mechanical keyboard offering a smaller footprint, making it ideal for those who want a more efficient workspace or gamers who need the extra mouse space for fast, precise movements.
The keyboard has a sleek, minimalist design with a solid plastic frame that feels durable but not overly heavy. The matte finish helps reduce fingerprints, giving the keyboard a clean and professional look. The absence of a numpad (hence the TKL design) makes it more compact, but the layout still feels full enough for general use.
The keycaps are made of high-quality ABS plastic, and while they’re not the most premium material (compared to PBT), they still feel decent under the fingers. The keyboard features customisable RGB lighting that can be adjusted through keyboard shortcuts or via software, adding a nice touch of personality without being overly flashy.
The keys are responsive and provide a satisfying feel when typing or gaming, with a nice balance of actuation force. They are very enjoyable to use for both gaming and typing.
The RGB lighting on the keyboard is one of its standout features. It’s bright, vibrant, and customizable through the onboard controls or software. There are multiple preset lighting effects, from breathing modes to wave patterns, allowing you to personalise the look of your setup. The keyboard can also be adjusted on-the-fly with different brightness and effect levels, which is a nice touch.
In terms of gaming performance, the keyboard does not disappoint. It offers fast response times, anti-ghosting, and key rollover, which are all important features for gamers. Whether you’re playing fast-paced FPS games or more casual titles, the keyboard feels responsive and precise. The key actuation is smooth, and there’s minimal wobble on the keycaps, so it maintains a satisfying feel during long gaming sessions.
The software that comes with the keyboard is relatively simple but functional. You can customize key bindings, adjust RGB lighting profiles, and configure macros for different games or applications. While the software isn’t as polished or feature-packed as some of the higher-end options, it’s more than adequate for most users.
If you want a reliable mechanical keyboard with RGB lighting and solid gaming performance you should check this out.
The GXT 872 Xyra TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is available now priced around £80.
With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Press Start by Erwan Cario.
Pac-Man, Mario, Tomb Raider, The Sims, GTA, Minecraft, Fortnite… Video games are now one of the pillars of popular culture. This comprehensive, visually rich book chronicles the history of video games from their earliest roots in 1958 up to the present day, from simple pixels to the stunningly realistic visuals of modern blockbusters.
Explore the evolution of the industry through the iconic artworks, stories, and characters that have defined gaming across generations. Rediscover the classics titles from Nintendo Switch’s Animal Crossing and Zelda: Breath of the Wild, to Elden Ring and God of War on the Sony PlayStation 5, as well as a multitude of independent gems and record-breaking franchises.
This newly updated edition highlights the standout games and key milestones over more than 50 years, diving into the creative and technological lore that have made video games what they are today. Filled with nostalgia, insights, and rich artwork, this book is a must-have for any video game fan, offering a captivating journey through the vibrant history of gaming and the titles that have captivated millions worldwide.
Press Start by Erwan Cario is available now priced around £30 and contains over 280 pages packed full of gaming knowledge and history. This is a must for any gamer!
Here we review the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Switch 2 Headset.
Experience superior gaming and comfort with the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Wired Gaming Headset, officially licensed by Nintendo for Nintendo Switch 2. This headset also works with Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model. Designed by our in-house engineers, this headset delivers finely tuned audio with high-quality 40mm speakers, offering an immersive experience for both casual and competitive gamers. The elevated over-ear Jersey knit cushions block noise while providing crisp highs and powerful lows. The sleek, noise-canceling mic ensures you’re always heard clearly, and when you need to go off comms, simply flip the mic up to mute it. This headset is built for fun across gamers of all ages and levels.
Specifications
Whats in the box?
The box contains the headset and instructions.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Switch 2 Headset is lightweight and comfortable to use, even for long periods of time.
There is a built in microphone and the quality is very good. If you don’t want to use the mic or you just want to mute it, all you need to do is flip it up and its automatically muted.
The sound quality is great, utilising high quality 40mm speakers.
As it’s a wired headset, all you need to do is plug it in and it’s ready to use. There is a volume control on the headset which is easy to access and use, even in the middle of a game.
If you are looking for a good quality, reasonably priced headset for your Nintendo Switch 2 (or other Switches) then look no further, Turtle Beach have done it again.
The Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Switch 2 Headset is available now priced around £19.99 and is available in either Charcoal Black or White and Black.
Here we take a closer look at the Titanium Magic Stand Pro Phone Case for iPhone 17 Pro Max from Casekoo.
The Titanium Magic Stand Pro Phone Case has 3.0 U-SHOCK airbags which increases the shock-resistance by 8 times.
There is a D-Cover lens shield on the back to protect the cameras, extending the anti-scratch structure too.
There is a 1.5mm bezel that protects the screen.
Using N58 Magnets + MagPrime Tech means that you can use wireless charging with ease.
There is a ring stand attached to the back of the case so that you use it stand up your phone in either horizontal or vertical modes giving you up to a 170 degree angle. It’s really easy to use and doesn’t get in the way when it’s not being used. You can also use it as a camera grip too!
Overall this is a really great case that also can be used as a stand, all while protecting your precious phone.
The Titanium Magic Stand Pro Phone Case for iPhone 17 Pro Max from Casekoo is available now priced around $88.99 (but at the time of writing this review it was on sale for $44.99. It is available in Orange, Navy, Rose Gold, Purple and Light Blue.
The Altruva headphones from Kiwi Ears offer professional-level audio at a fraction of the cost. Furthermore, they are unbelievably comfortable even when worn for marathon sessions. On top of this, they look fantastic. I was sent the WoodBrown version, but an all black option is available for something more discreet.
This open-back 50mm driver headset is perfect for audiophiles. The Altruva headphones deliver studio-grade audio that creates an immersive and mind-blowing soundscape. The easy-to-identify tones generate a warm and welcoming audio platform, no matter your entertainment field.
Though these headphones are larger than many of their peers, I liked the big ear cups and the quality materials. The result is a high-end product that sits comfortably around your ears. This creates an immersive experience without the claustrophobic downside.
What’s in the box of the Altruva headphones?
The packaging is large but interesting. Furthermore, it is robust and can be recycled.
The Altruva headphones are easy on the eye. Though they are large, I like the design and the wooden effect earcups.
An audio cable with multiple connection methods is provided.
Spare earpads can be used if necessary.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
These wired-only headphones use passive charging to bring them to life. The result is a lighter product that doesn’t need charging. Though wired-only designs are often frowned upon, Kiwi Ears champions this approach. The removable cables can be replaced with ease if they become damaged. However, the provided cables are good and will suit many users’ needs.
The 50mm custom-built drivers pack an almighty punch, but the open-back design helps to mellow things out. This design choice generates a spacious and more realistic soundstage, no matter the genre. Though I will focus on audio quality momentarily, I want to start by saying these headphones deliver an incredible range of tones and bass.
Audio quality.
No matter the Kiwi Ears product, they always get things right. However, the Altruva headphones are something else! The delightful blend of highs, mid, and low tones is wonderful to experience. I picked songs from various genres, and these headphones didn’t miss a beat. Moreover, even when things are cranked up, the 50mm drivers didn’t falter.
I know what you are thinking, you reckon the bass lets it down. Well, I hate to disappoint, but the bass is warm, rich, and brilliantly balanced. I picked some bass-heavy songs to test things out, and no layer was washed out. The result was a brilliant audio platform that is a joy to listen to.
Build quality.
I’ve mentioned the slightly larger nature of these headphones, but this shouldn’t be of concern. The larger earcups feel great against your skin. Additionally, the open-back design creates a breathable and comfortable listening experience.
I love it when a support headband is incorporated into the design. This minor touch makes a huge difference. No longer do you get pressure headaches or incredibly flat hair. Instead, the band sits gently upon your skull and you hardly feel any pressure at all.
The headphones are created using high-end materials. The stainless steel elements are PVD-coated for enhanced durability and longevity. Additionally, the combination of real wood accents and vegan-friendly leather creates a professional and high-end finish.
Are the Altruva headphones worth it?
The Altruva headphones will not break the bank. They are available for under $70 and pack an almighty punch for that impressive price point. The custom-built drivers offer a professional-grade soundscape. Furthermore, the balanced tones ensure every song, cinematic, and game sound amazing. Alongside this, they feel great to wear, and the design is a real head turner. Accordingly, I love them and recommend buying them here!
(More information on Kiwi Ears can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Marble Maze from Build Your Own Kits.
The Marble Maze isn’t just a puzzle—it’s the ultimate challenge cube. Build the Maze from 100+ interlocking pieces, then guide your marble through a brain-bending 3D labyrinth.
Perfect for logic puzzle lovers and problem-solving enthusiasts, it’s made for minds that love to think, tinker, and triumph. And it’s seriously addictive!
Build Your Own’s Marble Maze is made up of intricately designed slot-together cardboard parts. Whether you’re flying solo or teaming up with a mate, the step-by-step instructions are spread across 3 booklets so that sections can be built independently or collaboratively.
First, construct the 8 separate maze cubes, then interlock them to create your 3D puzzle masterpiece. Assembling the Marble Maze is a creative journey like no other, but the real challenge begins after you’ve built it.
Drop in your sleek ceramic marble and you’re off! The 8 unique challenge zones will put your skills to the test as you carefully manoeuvre the marble through twists, turns, and tricky traps. If your marble falls out, then it’s back to the start and try again.
Once mastered, the Marble Maze makes a stunning display piece resting in its own stand – a brilliant conversation starter that’ll add a touch of playful genius to any shelf or coffee table.
Ready to conquer the cube?
Age 14+ (adult supervision recommended)
Screen-free entertainment
Mess-free, slot together cardboard construction
4 hours build time
108 press-out parts
Contains 3 ceramic marbles
Cube dimensions: 23 cm x 23 cm x 23 cm. (36cm tall when sat in display stand)
Made from high-quality sustainable cardboard; both kit and packaging are fully recyclable
Easy to follow instructions included – 3 booklets
Designed in the UK
This is really a lot of fun for everyone and would make a great Christmas present.
Marble Maze from Build Your Own Kits is available now priced around £24.99.
CARIMARA is an odd one. It’s one of those games that has an achievement for beating it in four minutes. So you know you’re in for a quick experience, and there’s always a danger that it’ll slip right out of your head as soon as it goes in. Not so with CARIMARA. I think it’ll stick with me. Part of that is the short, sharp emotional ending. Part of it is to do with how mad everything looks and feels. A third, bigger, part is that CARIMARA is stuffed with secrets.
It’s a tricky game to write about, without just blandly describing all the interesting bits. It’s also a tricky game to recommend, because the actual gameplay is mainly spent bumbling around clicking on things. I do like the central gameplay mechanic but, if I had to pick nits, I’d say that CARIMARA is too short to let it evolve. Still, it’s definitely worth a look. For the price of a sandwich, you can have an experience that’s pleasantly unpleasant.
Dealing Questions
I approached CARIMARA like it was a horror game, but I don’t think that’s quite right. Certainly there are horror elements, but it’s more like a vague unsettling feeling. Like you’re at a party and suddenly realise that you don’t want to be there, so you’re constantly looking for the exit. In this case, though, we’re here to talk to the dead. We’re a Carimara, a little goblin fella called in to exorcise the ghost living in an old lady’s cellar. As you might expect, it’s not quite as simple as that.
For one thing, our little fella cannot speak. Instead, he has a set of cards with different pictures on them. When he wants to ask a question, he holds up the card. Interacting with the environment generates new cards, which you can then slot into conversations to get more information. To finally exorcise the ghost, you need to figure out who it was, and how it died. That means poking all the way around the environment and piecing together the clues, which range from vague to screamingly obvious.
Spooky Secrets
The main plot of CARIMARA isn’t too complex. Certain parts of the solution are impossible to miss. However, it’s made better by the secrets that run throughout. For one thing, you can sleep, which changes the time of day, and there certain secrets that only unlock when the moon is in the right place. Hell, there’s an entirely different ending hidden away in CARIMARA, where we basically cause the end of the world. The achievement is called ‘Oops’, which sums the whole ending up nicely, really.
It’s difficult to really criticise something that’s such a small, complete package as CARIMARA. Though if I took a step back and looked at it overall, I’d say that CARIMARA‘s short length doesn’t give its gameplay time to breathe. The card system isn’t much different from a standard point’n’click interface. I’d have liked a way to combine cards to ask more searching questions, for instance. Like combining a character with garden tools, to learn a bit more about the garden before it all went to hell. As it is, the card system feels a little underused.
CARIMARA – Short & Spooky
The last thing to mention is that CARIMARA has a surprisingly heartfelt ending for such a short game. I think that’s because a lot of the legwork of the story is pieced together by us. We begin to figure out the circumstances that led to the ghost, and all of the characters we meet have an air of suspicion about them. Only for you to find the real ending and it hammers home how fragile life is, and concludes with a bittersweet punch to the gut.
Notably, CARIMARA ends with a note from the developer indicating that further episodes in the same style may be on the way. I think that’s a very good idea. CARIMARA certainly feels like a single piece of a larger game that needs a bit more time to breathe. Still, it almost perfectly sets out to achieve want it wanted to. A creepy short story, with lovely, creepy art and a story that unfolds at the same pace as the player. In the end, all that I wanted was a larger helping, which can only be a good sign.
There is nothing better than enjoying a Christmas game before Halloween. This is exactly where I am as I’m reviewing Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes! This vibrant game is focused on a young audience. Although there is some finesse and accuracy required, it is perfectly safe and extremely forgiving. Accordingly, gamers of all ages can enjoy the simple action.
This single-player side-scrolling platformer was developed by Casual Brothers Limited and published by Outright Games. It has a lovely, colourful approach, and the audio is upbeat and magical. Subsequently, it’ll get you in the Christmas spirit even if we have months before the big day. None of the key mechanics is original or challenging. Moreover, the levels are reasonably repetitive and simple to navigate.
Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes asks you to believe in the Christmas spirit.
Santa is a busy man. However, he is pretty demanding as well. Sadly, his problems are a global issue! Whenever the festive season looks to be troubled, he rarely gets off his big red bottom. Instead, he gets his elves, pixies, and other magical creatures to do his bidding.
This is where the famous Elf on the Shelf comes to the fore. This hero, be it male or female, must explore the world and collect the Christmas spirit. As you undertake your important mission, you must remember to act as Santa’s festive snitch as you observe your chosen family from a high-up shelf.
Simple mechanics.
The story has very little impact on the action. Effectively, every stage is a basic platforming affair. Move from point A to B while collecting your Christmas spirit. Additionally, you’ll have to avoid festive foes as you leap chasms, climb platforms, and find magical doors.
Each stage has 3 magical doors with a mini game behind each one. Completing them is completely unnecessary, but the basic objectives were fun to test your skills. Moreover, they are perfectly balanced for younger players. Your enemies are easy to defeat or avoid. Sprinting and jumping are your main weapons. Alternatively, you can push a Christmas ball and hope to knock robots, nutcrackers, and other enemies out of the way.
Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes has a pleasant finish.
Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes uses many tried and tested ideas. Additionally, it doesn’t push the envelope with its stage design. This doesn’t matter, though, because it has a pleasant and vibrant finish. Sadly, there are a few bugs, and the game crashed on me a handful of times. This may just need a patch, but it was frustrating, nonetheless.
The audio is as upbeat as you’d expect. The music is full of energy and has a magical and mischievous edge. Furthermore, the sound effects are basic but fun. As such, it won’t blow you away, but it was nice to have a safe and pleasant audio experience.
Simple controls.
Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes goes a little overboard on the tutorials. Every new element is explained by Santa, and this does become tedious. However, it is perfect for young children and little guidance is required for them to succeed.
Replay value is limited. Collecting every ounce of the Christmas spirit is not essential. Moreover, you can avoid every mini-game if you wish. Though there were 20+ stages to complete, you will fly through them in no time. My kids kept going back for more, but more advanced or older players may not get as much enjoyment.
Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes is a good, festive experience.
This is a simple platform title that adds some Christmas flair to the mix. Although this won’t appeal to everyone, the theme, characters, and safe gameplay are perfect for its intended audience. I question its release date, but maybe a bit of festive cheer will make the world a more magical place. Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes is a good festive experience, and I recommend buying it here! Can you help Santa and save the day? Overcome the obstacles, complete the mini games, and save Christmas!
Gloomy Eyes is a heartwarming but strange self-coop title. Its plot, gameplay, and visuals are attractive and captivating. Furthermore, I adore the narrative, puzzles, and the growing friendship between two forces that should never meet.
This puzzle adventure experience was developed by Fishing Cactus and published by Untold Tales. It’s a single-player affair where problem-solving is at the heart of everything. On top of this, there is a brilliant, blooming friendship that will melt the iciest of hearts.
Gloomy Eyes tells a strange but comforting story.
I love it when a story twists familiar tropes. Additionally, chuck in some pleasant gameplay mechanics, and you have yourself a winner. Although this isn’t the longest game, it balances things perfectly. Additionally, none of the puzzles overstayed their welcome, and I stayed focused on each chapter with little effort.
You control 2 protagonists. Gloomy and Nena are only young, but their naughty and outlandish ways lead them astray. Gloomy is a zombie boy who is chased and hunted because of his ghoulish ways. Nena is a human girl who cannot be controlled. When the team pair up to bring back daylight, they prove that friendship and fun can cross every barrier.
Brilliant puzzles.
Gloomy Eyes delivers fascinating puzzles and excellent level design. Although the pathways are relatively linear, the 3D worlds are a joy to explore. Moreover, finding the solution to each problem can be tricky. Consequently, you enjoy rewarding moments throughout.
Where this excels is the incredible storytelling. The pace is fantastic, and the ye olde vibes are wonderful to experience. Furthermore, the relationship between the protagonists blossoms and evolves as each utilises their skills and natural abilities to overcome challenges.
Gloomy Eyes has a melancholy but wholesome tone.
Each level is a wonderful maze of intricate problems and obstacles. Moreover, the basic stealth elements work exceptionally well. However, it is the blend of colours and lighting that makes Gloomy Eyes pop. There is a fairy tale edge that delivers magical moments.
The audio is both sombre and upbeat. Though there is plenty of silence, the incredible narration adds a melancholy but wholesome tone. The sound effects are simple but effective. I wasn’t blown away by each noise, but the total package was impressive, regardless.
Tight controls.
A self-coop title could be messy, and flitting between characters could be a headache. Luckily, Gloomy Eyes is easy to play. The simple layout ensures that you move between characters with the touch of a button. Moreover, on-screen icons highlight useful items and anything that helps you progress. This straightforward design makes it a versatile title for gamers.
Replay value and longevity are in question. If you are not an achievement hunter, you’ll fly through this in no time. However, if you have to find every secret and collect every achievement, you’ll lose hours of your life.
Gloomy Eyes is a great indie title.
Puzzle games can be a little dry. Luckily, Gloomy Eyes is a joy to play. The puzzles, setting, and protagonists are wonderful. Additionally, the story and narration are memorable and stand out from the crowd. Accordingly, I think it’s great and I recommend buying it here! Can you help the pair find daylight? Overcome every obstacle, stay hidden, and complete your mission.
Omaha poker isn’t here to make friends. It plays faster, hits harder, and rewards the kind of sharp thinking that only shows up after you’ve lost a few ugly hands. With four hole cards and wild swings, the game demands more than just confidence. It needs discipline, timing, and a decent sense of humour when the river ruins your night. This article breaks down why Omaha is blowing up online, how to play it without embarrassing yourself, and why it’s quietly becoming the smartest, most addictive card game in the digital world. You ready? Good. Let’s deal.
It’s not that Hold’em got boring. It’s just that Omaha showed up with louder music, more drinks, and a bigger pot. There’s a reason players who’ve spent time around the felt eventually drift toward it. Four hole cards means four chances to get it right — or four chances to make the kind of mistake that still haunts you at 2am. Whether you’re playing for fun or climbing leaderboards, Omaha poker doesn’t play gently. And that’s exactly why it’s worth learning.
Know Your Hands Or Get Wrecked
Look, you can’t bluff your way through Omaha if you don’t know what beats what. And no, it’s not the same as Hold’em. Omaha’s got its own rhythm, and it starts with understanding the basic structure of hand strength. The poker hands chartis your first line of defense. Keep it open. Burn it into your brain.
The trick with Omaha is you get four cards in your hand but you’re only allowed to use two — and then match them with exactly three from the board. This messes with people. You’ll think you’ve got a flush, but it turns out you don’t have the right combo. Meanwhile the guy across the table is slow-playing a boat like he’s reading bedtime stories. It’s brutal. But that’s the game.
If you’re learning, start online. It gives you the volume you need to screw up quietly. Reps matter more than confidence. And once you’ve folded a nut straight because you didn’t see the paired board, you’ll start to take that chart seriously.
Online Poker And The Evolution Of Digital Games
There’s something happening with games in general. The lines between “just for fun” and “dead serious” keep getting fuzzier. Competitive chess is now a Twitch category. Streamers are teaching blackjack like it’s a lifestyle. And poker? It’s riding shotgun with the rest of them.
The rise of skill-based, decision-heavy digital games isn’t a coincidence. Players are craving more control, deeper tactics, and real stakes — even if it’s just bragging rights. Just look at the gaming sector’s recent pivot toward strategy titles with actual consequences. Poker slides right into that space.
Even blockchain games are tapping into the same mindset. They reward timing, insight, and guts. The exact things poker’s been about since long before crypto had a logo. The platforms may change, but the instinct is the same: beat the other guy with your brain, not your wallet.
Poker’s Growth Curve Is No Bluff
If you’re wondering whether poker’s still relevant in a Fortnite world, the numbers will shut that down fast.
The global online poker market was worth USD 3.86 billion in 2024, and it’s projected to hit USD 6.90 billion by 2030. That’s a compound annual growth rate of 10.2%. Not exactly hobbyist territory.
It’s not just the big-money tournament scenes keeping it alive. Casual platforms are exploding too. People want something between Candy Crush and baccarat. A game that feels smart, competitive, but still fits into an evening after work. Omaha fills that gap better than most, because it scales. You can play tight, wild, strategic, stupid. All of it still feels earned!
There’s something inherently sticky about it. Once someone learns the difference between wrap draws and trap folds, it’s hard to walk away. You start seeing patterns. You crave redemption from that one hand you misread. The growth isn’t random. It’s emotional.
Learning Omaha Is A Lifestyle Choice
The thing about poker is that it teaches you stuff. And Omaha teaches faster. You learn patience, because overplaying garbage will ruin you. You learn timing, because the right hand played badly is still a disaster. And most importantly, you learn to shut up and watch, because half the game happens when you’re not even in the hand.
Good Omaha players get that. They don’t chase every pot. They don’t talk unless it’s a story you’ll remember. They sit in the game like it’s a long meal, not a fast snack. You want to be that player. You want to get there before someone shows you how far off you really are.
Start small. Low blinds. No ego. Make your mistakes in rooms that won’t charge you for them. And when you finally start stringing wins together, you’ll know you earned them.
There are games you play once, then forget. This isn’t that kind of game. Omaha isn’t interested in entertaining you. It wants to teach you something. The hard way, usually. And it wants you to come back smarter. If you’re going to sit down at the table, bring your focus. And maybe pour a drink. It’s going to be a long, beautiful night.
This year, crash games are everywhere. You might be on a casino app feed or gaming stream, but you have likely seen a rocket, a plane, or even a chicken soaring higher and higher until–boom–all of it is gone. It is that split-second adrenaline rush, when you can either cash out or keep it going a bit longer, which is precisely why these games are taking off.
Core Mechanics and Simplicity
Crash games are constructed on one concept: risk versus timing. One of the multipliers is building up as we speak, and your task is to withdraw the money before it goes down. Simple as that. The regulations are very simple to pick up, and hence, newcomers are hooked in seconds.
The Aviator was set in stone with a small plane taking off and the multiplier flying in the sky. The greater the length of its flight, the greater the win, except in the event of a crash before it can win. Chicken Road is a game based on the formula, except that instead of the aircraft, it is a barnyard twist. You gamble on the number of chickens to cross a busy road. It is ridiculous, somewhat humorous, and unexpectedly strong.
These games do not require elaborate strategy and tutorials. You can play some rounds and wait somewhere to have a coffee, or when you are making a short ride. They are the right kind of entertainment that fits in with the way people use their phones, small bursts of entertainment that are very spontaneous but rewarding. Lists of the top chicken games show just how far this trend has gone, with more studios jumping in to create their own versions.
The Pull of Uncertainty
Some of the excitement lies in the fact that each round is so unpredictable. Once the multiplier begins to increase, the brain works in overdrive. You are aware that it will crash sometime, but not when. That guessing game causes an adrenaline rush of anticipation, and when you get your timing right on getting out, the reward is genuine.
These games are not only interesting because they are luck-based, but also because of the way they play in relation to the feeling of control. A single decision, and it is the decision that determines the difference. The peaks are acute, the defeats painful, and such a combination of emotions keeps the players glued together. The psychology of it is not new. Variable rewards have been in use in slot machines over the decades, but crash games apply this formula and dress it up in something that is, no doubt, faster, more interactive, and social.
Social and Competitive Vitality.
Rarely is a crash game a single experience. Live chats, leaderboards, and being able to see other people playing in real time are now common features of most of the platforms. It can be very exciting to watch another player poised to take that huge multiplier and, as a result, play yourself. And when they smash and crash just in time, collective responses on chat make a mood that one will never experience when playing in a real casino.
Even further has been pushed by streamer-led formats. The live viewing of a streamer who bets brings about drama that is infectious. You do not merely see the result, but you are in a state of suspense. In other regions, such as Asia, where streaming culture is massive, this format has made crash games a social experience just like a gambling experience.
Competition adds another layer. Many games include leaderboards and daily challenges where players chase the highest multipliers or biggest wins. It’s not only about the money, it’s about bragging rights. Getting your name on the board gives that small dopamine hit that keeps you coming back for more.
A Global Trend
By 2025, crash titles will account for more than a third of mobile casino sessions worldwide. They’ve spread far beyond niche audiences and are now a core part of mobile gambling. High Flyer by Pragmatic Play, for example, dominates across regions like Europe, Africa, and South America, where quick, low-data games fit perfectly into mobile lifestyles.
Different parts of the world gravitate toward different styles. North American players seem drawn to arcade-inspired versions like Crush Dynasty, while Asian audiences prefer streamer-driven formats with interactive features. Crypto-friendly platforms have also boosted growth, offering players instant deposits, withdrawals, and low transaction fees.
Crash games blend speed, simplicity, and suspense in a way few other genres do. Each round is short, but the emotional punch is strong. They’re fast, unpredictable, and endlessly repeatable, and that’s exactly why they’re everywhere in 2025, setting the stage for future trends in mobile gambling.
Cult of Blood is a survival horror adventure game developed by Dusty Box. Cult of Blood combines cinematic storytelling with modernized classic gameplay and fixed camera angles.
The story is inspired by a true story. You take on the role of a police officer sent to investigate reports of vampire sightings, uncovering a village hidden from the outside world and seemingly stuck in time.
Cult of Blood is trying to capture the feeling of classic horror games in a modern way so it doesn’t feel dated.
Cult of Blood is planned to release in 2026 on PS5, Xbox, and PC.
Dev Interview
I interviewed the developers and asked a few questions about their game and studio; here are their answers:
So, as far as I know, Cult of Blood is the first game by Dusty Box Studio. Can you tell me a bit about your studio and how it got started?
Answer: We are a small indie team of two founded in Greece, by our childhood love of classic survival horror games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, which inspired us to create our first title, Cult of Blood, a cinematic, true crime inspired horror adventure that fuses ritualistic themes with intense, resource driven combat and fixed camera angles.
You mentioned that you’re a team of two. Have either of you been involved in developing video games before? If yes, can you please tell us what games?
Answer: One of our members has a creative background and has influenced and worked in the creation of other games, but overall Cult of Blood will be the first release. Experience comes from years of passionate involvement in the community and personal creative explorations, which now channel into our debut as game developers.
You said the Cult of Blood story was inspired by a true story. Could you tell us more about what that story is and where it comes from?
Answer: Cult of Blood’s story is inspired by the real life case of Magdalena Solís, a woman in 1960s Mexico who became infamous as the “High Priestess of Blood”; she led a small cult whose followers believed she was a reincarnated goddess, culminating in a reign of ritual sacrifices and violence, an episode we reimagined through a supernatural lens for the game’s narrative.
For how long has this game been in development, and what challenges did you face in the development process?
Answer: Cult of Blood has been in development for approximately two years, facing several challenges including technical hurdles from building game systems, resource limitations that required extensive multitasking between art, programming, and writing, and the difficulty of crafting an authentic survival horror atmosphere with fixed cameras on a tight indie budget.
Is there any feature or innovation that you think could give players a special experience?
Answer: Cult of Blood offers a special player experience by blending intense, strategic combat with classic survival horror elements like fixed camera angles and tank controls, creating a feeling of constant tension and vulnerability, its unique feature is the resource driven gameplay where every bullet and healing item matters, combined with an upgrade system using blood souls that encourages exploration and strategic decision making, all wrapped in a deeply immersive psychological horror atmosphere that emphasizes story and dread over jump scares.
What games did you take inspiration from for Cult of Blood?
Answer: Cult of Blood draws heavy inspiration from classic survival horror games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, capturing the essence of fixed camera angles, tank controls, and a tense, atmospheric horror experience, while also incorporating unique influences from religious art and old cathedral architecture to create a distinct visual and thematic identity.
Cult of Blood uses a fixed camera angle, which can sometimes become a problem, especially for modern gamers. What did you do to make it more enjoyable for modern gamers, too?
Answer: To make fixed camera angles enjoyable for modern gamers, we carefully designed each camera placement to enhance cozy atmosphere and tension rather than obstruct gameplay, while integrating smooth player control with tank style movement and responsive character adjustments to prevent frustration, also emphasized clear visual storytelling and environmental cues to guide players intuitively, blending classic horror nostalgia with modern user friendly design sensibilities.
Have you thought about your future games? Are you planning on making more horror games, or are you planning to explore more genres?
Answer: We have expressed enthusiasm for continuing to make games in the future, hoping to build on the foundation laid by Cult of Blood, but we are also open to exploring new genres and creative directions to expand our storytelling and gameplay horizons beyond just survival horror as our experience and resources grow.
Occasionally, you don’t know you need something until it lands in your lap. This is exactly how I feel about the Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller from Victrix. This spectacular device has 2 unique models. 1 for PlayStation and 1 for Xbox. Both are compatible with PC. I’ve opted for the PlayStation option because I want something fresh and different from the vanilla PS5 controller.
Thankfully, this gamepad didn’t disappoint. Its modular design makes it a versatile and competitive device. Moreover, the Hall Effect switches are buttery smooth and perfect for high-paced and challenging games. Additionally, there are plenty of changeable parts, custom switches, and a free app to use on PC. Accordingly, it is the perfect option if you love to compete at an elite standard.
What’s in the box of the Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller?
The packaging catches your eye. It is colourful, informative, and robust.
The Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller is a stunning controller. It is bigger than the PS5 option, but it feels great to use. Every button is well-positioned, and it feels oddly familiar and simple to master.
Spare analogue sticks, rings, and d-pads are provided.
A 6-button fight pad module with Kailh switches gives you an edge.
Use the tool to undo the screws.
A colourful USB-C cable charges the controller.
Keep everything safe with the hard case.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
This elite pad is packed with match-winning technology. The hall effect switches, impressive battery life, customisable triggers, and interchangeable components make this controller stand out from the crowd. Furthermore, the fast charging facility ensures that you are rarely without power. However, if you run out of juice, the long USB-C cable keeps you in the game.
20 hours of wireless battery life may not seem as strong as its competitors. Yet, the Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller rarely let me down. Most gamers will find the battery life to be more than sufficient, and I cannot see too many people complaining.
The 5-stop clutch triggers and 4 mappable rear buttons are perfect for precise inputs and additional commands. Though mappable buttons are not my go-to option, I like the ability to change them on the fly. Furthermore, the clutch triggers were spectacular when playing COD and other FPS games.
Usability.
Do the words elite and game-changing have to mean complex and hard to use? Luckily no. The Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller is remarkably easy to set up, and the modules can be changed in no time at all. Moreover, there is no programming or complex processes to follow. Accordingly, it can be mastered with ease.
Changing the clutch triggers and mappable buttons is easy as well. Adjusting the guards and programming each input is a straightforward task. Follow the step-by-step guide and get yourself up and running. Alternatively, use it as a standard gamepad and enjoy the ergonomic design and comfortable weight distribution.
Build quality.
As expected, Victrix has delivered another incredible product. The case, cable, interchangeable parts, additional modules and controller are spectacular. Additionally, the removable screws are durable, and the clutch trigger points are hard-wearing. Consequently, this controller will take some heavy-handed action and will not falter.
The Hall Effect switches and Kailh switches deliver smooth and market-leading control and durability. Subsequently, you’ll destroy your foes with the fightpad and reduce the risk of stick drift with the impressive analogue sticks.
Where this controller really shines is its beautiful weight distribution and comfortable grips. The ergonomic design reduces fatigue and is ideal for lengthy game sessions. Moreover, the actuation distance for each button is comfortable, accurate, and impressively sharp.
Is the Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller worth it?
The Pro BFG Reloaded Wireless Modular Controller is probably the best PS5 controller I have used. Every aspect of this device is market-leading and impressive. I love the modular design and its versatility, as well as its user-friendly features. Furthermore, durability is essential when you are playing high-paced and stress-inducing games. Accordingly, it is a brilliant device, and I recommend buying it here!
