Review: Canyon OnPower 600 Power Bank

Andrew Edney
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Review: Canyon OnPower 600 Power Bank

Here we review the Canyon OnPower 600 Power Bank.

Life’s too short to be held back by a dying battery. Introducing the OnPower 600 – your pocket-sized powerhouse. This device will power up all your devices on the go, letting you enjoy uninterrupted productivity (or relaxation, it’s up to you) whenever you need it. With a massive 20,000mAh capacity, the OnPower 600 will keep your devices charged for days. It doesn’t really matter what your goals are: digital nomads, frequent travelers, or simply those who can’t afford downtime equally enjoy the benefits of the OnPower 600, staying connected at all times.The power bank’s built-in 65W cable delivers lightning-fast charging, which cuts down your charging time significantly. For you, this means less time waiting and more time doing what you love. The sleek, compact design also makes this device the perfect travel companion. Slip it into your bag or pocket and take it anywhere you go. Its durable, fireproof construction will keep your mind at peace, while the clear power display will make sure you stay informed. Imagine powering through a long flight, a camping trip, or a busy workday without a single thought about a low battery. The OnPower 600 makes this a reality. We like to call it a statement of independence. So, no more missed calls, interrupted video conferences, or drained devices. With the OnPower 600, you’re always in control. It’s the ultimate power solution for the modern lifestyle.

Features

  • Ultra compact 20 000mAh model, 65W
  • Power Display
  • Built-in 65W cable
  • Max power PD65W
  • Size: 108*68*32.5mm
  • Materials: fireproof ABS+PC
  • Colors: black + silver
  • Capacity：20000mAh /74Wh
  • TYPE-C output: 5V-3A/9V-3A/12V-3A/15V-3A/20V-3.25A（65W)
  • USB A output: 5V-3A/9V-2A/12V-1.5A /10V-2.25A (22.5W)
  • TYPE-C cable output: 5V-3A/9V-3A/12V-3A/15V-3A/20V-3.25A（65W)
  • TYPE-C cable input：5V-3A/9V-3A/12V-3A/15V-3A (45W)
  • TYPE-C input:5V-3A/9V-3A/12V-3A/15V-3A(45W)

What’s in the box?

The box contains the power bank and a quick guide.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The Canyon OnPower 600 Power Bank is fairly small – it’s about the size of a mobile phone, but it’s a bit heavier.

There is a built in 65W cable that you can use to either charge the power bank or charge one of your devices. You can also connect cables to the USB-A and USB-C ports on the side of the charger too. You can even charge multiple devices at the same time. It really is good to see a cable connected to the device – this way you will never forget to take a cable with you.

There is a digital display that shows how much percentage charge is left in the power bank – all you need to do is press the button to activate the display.

If you travel or you need to have an easy way to charge your devices on the go, then take a look at the Canyon OnPower 600 Power Bank, you wont be disappointed.

The Canyon OnPower 600 Power Bank is available now priced around £59.99.

You can learn more from the Canyon website. And you can purchase it from Rymans here.

Preview: Schedule 1

Dawid Wisniewski
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Preview: Schedule 1

​Schedule I is an indie open-world drug trafficking simulator developed and published by solo developer TVGS (Tyler’s Video Game Studio). Released in early access on March 24, 2025, the game quickly became a viral success, topping Steam’s sales charts and peaking at 414,166 concurrent players within days, surpassing titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Monster Hunter Wilds in player count. ​

What’s in the current stage?

Schedule I combines sandbox mechanics with dark humour, tasking players with building a drug empire in the fictional city of Hyland Point. Key features include:

  • Hands-on production: Players grow, harvest, and package drugs through minigames. Players can also mix strains with different ingredients to make some magnificent effects. ​
  • Dynamic economy: Manage supply chains, negotiate deals and adjust the base prices of your products.
  • Co-op multiplayer: Up to four players can collaborate (or sabotage each other) in roles like production, distribution, or enforcement. ​With the variety of effects from your product, and the customisation, the co-op feature does make for an extremely fun time.
  • Progression: Start as a small-time dealer, then build your empire by hiring employees, purchasing properties, and automating operations.

The game’s cartoonish art style enhance the games absurd scenarios, such as stuffing rivals into trash cans, pickpocketing your product back after the sale, or flying off into space after experience the low-gravity effect.

What’s next?

Schedule I gained traction during Steam Next Fest, where its demo attracted 23,000 followers. Post-launch, the solo developer prioritized community feedback, releasing rapid bug fixes and outlining a two-year early access roadmap with expanded maps, new drugs, and deeper management systems. ​

The game’s price point (with a 15% launch discount) and “overwhelmingly positive” Steam reviews fortify this to be the next big hit and hopefully through constant work and engagement can keep going strong amidst the ever growing video game market. Schedule 1 has already proven a great addition to anyone’s steam library. But it’s also sparked a question, if a solo developer can create a gem like this. What the hell are AAA studios doing?

Wait or play?

I would recommend Schedule 1 right now to fans of light hearted and chill tycoon games. I have already spent over 40 hours between a co-op and solo playthrough and still haven’t progressed to the late stages of the early access on either. The game is simply fun and rewarding even when just messing around with friends. The title is mostly praised for its innovative crafting systems, where minigames transform mundane tasks like watering plants into engaging mechanics. The emergent storytelling, unpredictable NPC behaviour, and co-op chaos create shareable anecdotes. Developer transparency, with frequent updates and Tyler’s active Reddit presence, fostered player trust.

Schedule I offers a unique blend of dark humour and strategic depth, allowing players to build a drug empire in a fictional city. Its engaging mechanics, co-op multiplayer, and developer transparency have contributed to its viral success. While some late-game grind issues exist, the game’s ongoing development and community engagement suggest a promising future. In my humble opinion, grab some friends and gamble all your drug money away.

Things To Help You Focus When You’re Gaming

Andrew Edney
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Things To Help You Focus When You’re Gaming

Gaming is one of those things that feels best when you’re totally in the zone, and when everything just clicks and you’re just locked into what you’re doing. But getting into that headspace can be trickier than it sounds, especially when the world around you keeps putting your attention in different directions. 

Whether it’s a text pinging on your phone, someone knocking at the door, or just a wandering mind, distractions can really mess with how you play, and that’s why setting yourself up properly makes such a difference. With that in mind, here are some things to help you focus when you’re gaming – read on to find out more. 

Photo by Lucie Liz

Create A Space That Works For You

You don’t need a full-on streaming setup to have a space that helps you focus – it could be as simple as a comfy chair, decent lighting, and a spot that’s relatively quiet, and that’s going to help. If you game on a console, maybe you can declutter the space around it so you’re not distracted by the mess, and if you’re on a PC, why not empty your desk so it’s just you and the computer? 

In the end, your gaming space really doesn’t have to be perfect – that’s just going to take up too much time when you could be playing – but it does need to be functional, and that might mean that it needs to be clean and tidy too. 

Let Music Help

Background music can actually help you stay focused as well, especially if it blocks out other noise and keeps your energy up. Some people go for game soundtracks, others prefer something different, perhaps even classical music – it’s your choice. 

The thing to remember is that if your go-to music is on a different app than what you’re currently using, it’s worth getting things sorted out before you dive into a gaming session, and it’s pretty straightforward to transfer Spotify playlist to Apple Music, for example, and it saves you from having to keep stopping to sort things out when you just want to relax and play. 

Keep It Simple

It’s always going to be your choice when it comes to what you need to do to stay focused when you’re gaming, but whatever it is you choose, the best thing to do is to keep things simple, otherwise you’re only going to end up more distracted than when you started. 

So you can make sure you keep your snacks and drinks within reach (and you’ve got enough to see you through) so you don’t have to pause the game to go and get what you need, for example. And you should make it a habit to charge your controllers ahead of time as that can be a nightmare if the batteries run out mid-game. And while it’s tempting to multitask, especially if you’re able to browse social media or chat to others, sometimes it’s just best to stick to focusing on the game, and that’s going to make things feel a lot more fun. 

Review: Koira

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: Koira

​Koira, developed by Studio Tolima and published by DON’T NOD, is a heart-warming adventure that immerses players in a beautifully hand-drawn world. Released on April 1, 2025, for PC and PlayStation 5, the game offers a poignant narrative cantered around friendship, exploration, and the bond between a forest spirit and a lost puppy.

A beautiful story

The story begins with the player awakening far from the heart of the forest, drawn by the distant, distressed bark of a puppy. This encounter sets the stage for an emotional journey as you befriend the frightened canine and embark on a quest to find your way home. The relationship between the forest spirit and the puppy is at the core of Koira, emphasizing themes of companionship and mutual support.

Koira’s gameplay seamlessly blends exploration, puzzle-solving, and stealth elements. Traversing through shaded groves, snowy hills, and dark caves, players must navigate various terrains while solving ancient puzzles that restore the forest’s mystical monuments. The puzzles are thoughtfully integrated, requiring collaboration between the spirit and the puppy to overcome obstacles. Additionally, the forest is packed with dangers, notably from relentless hunters lurking in the shadows. Utilizing stealth and strategy becomes crucial to protect your self and your canine companion from these threats.

One of Koira’s standout features is its unique communication system. The game eschews traditional text and dialogue, opting instead for musical interactions. Players can sing to the puppy, using melodies to bond, guide, and comfort it. This musical mechanic extends to interactions with the environment and other woodland creatures, creating a harmonious and immersive experience. The original soundtrack, composed by Reginald Nowe, dynamically reflects the game’s emotional landscape, enhancing the narrative without the need for words. ​

With delightful aesthetics

Visually, Koira captivates with its 2D hand-drawn art style. The minimalist yet expressive animations bring the enchanted forest and its inhabitants to life, drawing inspiration from works like Disney’s Fantasia and games such as Journey and Shadow of the Colossus. The limited colour palette, focusing on shades of white, black, gray, yellow, and red, effectively conveys the game’s themes of light and shadow, beauty and danger. ​

The development process involved a meticulous approach to animation. Characters are designed with flat shapes, allowing for a seamless blend of procedural and hand-drawn animation. This technique not only streamlines the animation process but also ensures fluid and lifelike movements, contributing to the game’s immersive quality.

Koira’s narrative is both wholesome and dramatic, striking a balance between moments of serenity and tension. The bond between the forest spirit and the puppy is portrayed with depth and authenticity, making their journey resonate with players on an emotional level. The absence of text encourages players to interpret the story through visuals and music, fostering a personal connection to the unfolding events. ​

Highly recommend

In conclusion, Koira is a testament to the power of minimalist storytelling, where art and music converge to create a compelling experience. Its engaging gameplay, evocative visuals, and innovative musical interactions make it a standout title in the adventure genre. For those seeking a game that explores the depths of friendship and the beauty of non-verbal communication, Koira offers an unforgettable journey through its enchanted forest.​

Review: The Vale: Shadow of the Crown

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: The Vale: Shadow of the Crown

The Vale: Shadow of the Crown is a bold and deeply immersive audio-driven action adventure that flips conventional gaming on its head. Developed by Falling Squirrel, this title delivers a richly atmospheric experience almost entirely without visuals. Instead of relying on what you see, The Vale invites players to navigate its world using sound, vibration, and spatial awareness—creating a surprisingly visceral and emotionally compelling journey.

An incredible leap in video game accessibility

You play as Alex, a blind princess who has lived her life far from the throne. When an ambush separates her from her caravan, Alex is thrust into a dangerous world that she must learn to survive through grit, instinct, and the help of a loyal shepherd guide. What makes this game unique isn’t just its protagonist—it’s the fact that the entire game is designed around the same sensory limitations she lives with. You don’t “see” the world; you hear and feel it.

Combat in The Vale is a standout. Sword fights feel weighty and intense, thanks to a directional audio system that lets you hear where enemies are attacking from. You dodge, block, parry, and strike based on sound cues—enemy footsteps circling you, weapons slicing through the air, or an archer drawing their bowstring. Combined with subtle controller vibrations, this system demands that players pay close attention, sharpening their senses with each encounter. And it’s not just about reflexes—it’s about reading the environment with your ears.

An immersive world you’ll never see

Outside of combat, there’s a strong narrative with surprisingly emotional beats. The performances are excellent, especially Alex’s voice acting, which grounds the story with warmth and humanity. There’s humour, tragedy, and character growth that makes you genuinely care about her journey. Interactions with villagers, bandits, or mystical figures are all audio-based but feel fleshed out and real.

Mechanically, the game is streamlined but offers just enough depth through gear upgrades, choices in combat strategy, and branching side quests. You’ll make decisions that affect how you approach enemies—do you rely on heavy armor and block more often, or go light and dodge for precision strikes?

I cannot recommend this enough

What’s perhaps most impressive is how inclusive the game is without being preachy about it. The Vale was built from the ground up to be accessible to blind and low-vision players, but the experience it delivers is powerful for everyone. It demonstrates that great gameplay doesn’t need to rely on visuals—it just needs immersion, purpose, and heart.

Review: Voxile

Daniel Waite
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Review: Voxile

Voxile isn’t the easiest game to review. On one hand, it is an adventure endeavour in a wonderful and random voxel world. On the other hand, there is crafting freedom and plenty of creative license. I spent very little time in the latter mode, but I can see it taking over your life. Instead, I focused on the micro stories and the madness that unfolds.

Vox Ray Games Inc. developed and published this voxel adventure title. Moreover, it can be enjoyed alone or with others online. I spent my time as a lone adventurer. However, I reckon some online madness would enhance the action and cause wonderful but unnecessary arguments.

Voxile tells plenty of silly stories. 

Voxile doesn’t focus on one plot. Instead, there is a central theme and plenty of unique backdrops and characters to see. What’s more, there is loads of fighting, plenty of destruction, and so much crafting that you won’t know what to do. 

As you explore each scenario, you are met with a random world and plenty of obstacles to overcome. Moreover, people don’t trust you, and this can lead to some weird and whacky moments. Each scenario is loaded with missions to complete and loads of blocks to smash to smithereens. This classic voxel approach will appeal to destructive kids and lovers of Minecraft. 

A bit buggy. 

The single-player mode relies on plenty of quests to guide your journey. This is great in theory, but it can be tough to find every item, and I swear that glitches and bugs prevented key objects from spawning. This issue was prevalent when I was searching for flowers and a few NPCs. No matter how hard I looked, the items or people could never be found. 

These bugs were infuriating as they stopped me from progressing. Luckily, though, you can skip through scenarios, and this overcomes this annoying hurdle. I would like the developer to iron these issues out as these game-breaking bugs undermine an otherwise fun game. 

Despite the bugs, exploration and combat are fun. Guns, wood, and swords may be used to mame your foes. What’s more, you can cook food, craft items, and heal yourself with health packs. The layers of creativity were great, and I applaud the large arsenal of items that can be crafted. 

Voxile looks amazing.

Voxel games have come on in leaps and bounds. Voxile looks amazing, and I was blown away by the crisp worlds and the varied backdrops. The water looks inviting, and the bioluminescent plants were amazing. Moreover, the monsters are nicely varied and hacking them to pieces was an enjoyable experience.

The audio is a mixed bag. Some of the sound effects are annoying, and the loud and often abrupt sound effects were uncomfortable to hear. However, I like the soundtrack and the good ambient sounds. 

Good controls. 

Despite the large destructive world, Voxile is remarkably easy to play. The UI is simple to master, and every tool is well-explained. Subsequently, making progress is pretty easy and mastering the controls is easier still. 

If you have a creative edge, you will lose hours to the built-in editor. Furthermore, if you have a great group of friends, you could create a world and make a utopia. Alternatively, the impressive pre-made missions will keep you busy for hours. 

Voxile is good, despite the bugs. 

The bugs and glitches left a bad taste. Yet, this shouldn’t put you off. These problems will get ironed out, and the hindrance is worth the reward. Visually, Voxile is amazing to look at. What’s more, the missions are fun, and the monsters deserve to be killed. Accordingly, though it is an Early Access game, I recommend buying it here! Can you complete every mission or create a world to call your own? Master every element, avoid the monsters, and observe a stunning voxel world.

Review: Finding Frankie

Cody May
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Review: Finding Frankie

Finding Frankie is a horror game in which you must compete in a deadly parkour show. Not only are you trying to win the five million dollar grand prize, but you’re also trying to escape the monstrosities within and make it out alive.

Finding Frankie originally launched on PC, and now is finally making its way to console on April 15th, 2025.


Story & Setup

After buying a bunch of boxes of Frankie’s Fruit Flakes, you finally win the ultimate prize, a chance to compete for five million dollars. There is a catch however, nobody ever wins. Most likely due to the ravenous animatronic mascots trying to kill you.

Overall a simple premise but it works as a good backdrop for a fun horror game such as this. Story isn’t the focal point here. Just survive and try to have fun amidst the chaos.

You’ll need to put on your best Mirror’s Edge impression facing multiple parkour courses, some while being chased by monsters. You’ll need to slide, wall-jump, and grind your way out of these scenarios.

It’s a test of guts and determination for the main character. You start the game with 3 other contestants, one minute later, you are all that is left. You quickly learn in here that one wrong move, step, or decision costs you dearly.

What follows next is a crazy little journey involving a killer mascot, a phone, and deputy duck. Yes, I’m being serious.

Hardcore Parkour

How you go about said journey involves some parkour and slight puzzle solving. You’ll go through multiple courses, each with fun vibrant colors, and a distinct feeling among them all.

From Deputy Duck’s yellow course to Frankie’s Frosted Tundra. Each brings distinct flavor, although the gameplay in each isn’t a drastic departure from one another.

A lot of the mechanics of each of these courses in Finding Frankie aren’t incredibly complex. I actually felt for the most part at times that it was a little too easy. Understandably, I recognize the game is more catered towards teenagers, there was just a lack of pressure or worry because I never felt I couldn’t overcome a challenge or obstacle.

And although there is puzzles here, they are very straight-forward. The same breaker box puzzle is used consistently, turn on one breaker box, and your hud will be updated with how many there are left to find. They aren’t hard to find either, so again, no pressure.

There was a standout section of the game for me. You find a deputy duck electronic device which can scan the area, or a flash which can reveal hidden items. After finding yourself face to face with Henry Hotline, you have to walk around a dark maze with your deputy duck device to find five phones, all while henry stalks you in the shadows. Very enjoyable.

Overall, I think the gameplay is fine but it’s far from perfect. The controls are a little weird and take some getting used to. On Xbox you press LT to run, RT to crouch/slide. Initially I hated it, especially when you have to run, press and hold X to grab a pole and swing yourself forward. Very awkward at first but eventually I got used to it.

One final note on gameplay, some aspects of the courses appear to take inspiration from Fall Guys. With a very fun and well known game from Fall Guys showing up towards the end. It was a nice touch and gave the game some added flavor.

Conclusion

Finding Frankie is a fun game, but it has obvious shortcomings. It’s a little too easy, fairly short, and there’s not a whole lot of variety in its mechanics or courses.

That doesn’t mean that there’s not some good here though. I think for the right price (I am unsure of price. The Xbox store doesn’t have a price listed and I can’t find any info online) you can have a good time with it. I completed the game in about an hour and twenty minutes so also consider that with price.

Looking online, this game had a very strong presence on YouTube particularly with streamers and content creators who play these types of games. This game is strongly built for that audience so if you like those types of games I recommend Finding Frankie.

Review: Burden Of Command

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Burden Of Command

Burden of Command has the right title. It’s a poor comparison, but have you ever made a decision at work that leads to an employee being shouted at? It’s a strange, deep level of guilt. The knowledge that someone would be having a much better day if you’d have just picked option B. But having their lives hanging on your decisions? I can’t imagine it. I doubt I could handle it. You’ve got to be able to take those losses in your stride; focus on the next choice.

Hence the ‘burden’ in Burden of Command. No good battlefield leader is there because they want a bigger paycheque. Burden of Command gets that across, very loudly, through both writing and gameplay. The writing sets up the characters and the gameplay puts them in jeopardy. A bad move can have serious consequences. In many respects, Burden of Command doesn’t shy from the realities of war and, for the most part, pulls it off.

Burden Of Command

Good Plan, Violently Executed

Burden of Command is set during roughly the middle of World War II, specifically towards the end of 1942. It’s post-Pearl Harbour, so America is galvanised and preparing to drop boots in various places across the world. We play as a fresh-faced lieutenant, going through boot camp before being shipped off into Morocco for the first campaign. Of note is Burden of Command‘s commitment to actual history. There are colourised, era photographs and footage everywhere, with appropriate descriptions, and interviews with veterans. There’s a strong feeling of respect throughout.

This is reflected in the writing. Roughly half of Burden of Command is something like a visual novel. Outside of combat, you make choices that impact your men, such as leading them through tough moments or prepping for the next scenario. The characters feel quite well realised. Lt. Wilson is something of a cautious, old school soldier. Lt. Dearborn is always trying to think out of the box. Both come to terms with the result of their actions. PTSD is a strong theme, and Burden of Command handles it sensitively. It shows both the bravado and the cracks it’s papering over.

The other half of Burden of Command is a turn-based strategy, divided into lieutenants and their platoons of riflemen, machine guns and mortars. All have their own action points. Activating a squad for the first time that turn uses a point from their respective lieutenant, then it’s all on them. A key difference from others in the genre is that bullets fired doesn’t translate to enemies killed. Instead, it relies on ‘suppression’. Opening fire pins enemy squads in place. You then you need to flank and assault them to wipe them out. A wrong move, then, can pin your own squads in place. It’s a different layer of tactical thinking that takes a little while to get used to, but is great fun when you do.

Burden Of Command

Won By Men

Burden of Command works hard to blend both sides. Fighting stresses out your squads and commanders, and the choices you make in the visual novel part can alleviate or increase this. Guiding your leaders through the tough choices, called ‘crucibles’, can enhance skills and make them more effective on the battlefield. You’ll want to do this, as leaders make all the difference. You’ll need them to bolster your men before assaults, and if they’re fully suppressed then rallying can bring them out of it. It forces you to actually lead, and I found it quite absorbing.

I do think that the difficulty is a little all over the place, though. An early mission in Morocco had me storming a hotel, and it resulted in a tense and brutal stand-off in the centre of town. The next mission was a gentle stroll towards Casablanca. It could be that some of the pre-battle bonuses, like artillery strikes, are a bit too powerful. It could also be that the AI is a little unresponsive at times. They tend to just wait in their assigned locations, even as every other squad goes dark. They can still punish you if you mess up, though.

The other big issue is something of an elephant in the room: the graphics. Inside the visual novel segments, they’re fantastic. There are real, and sometimes gruesome, photos and beautifully painted portraits. Then you go into the fights and it looks like you’re pushing little army men around on a game board. It’s a bit of a thematical disconnect. The writing paints a grimy, dark and bloody picture and then the actual graphics show a squeaky clean arena, looking like something from the early 2000s. It’s not a deal breaker, but it is a little strange. The UI can get cluttered too, making it hard to remember what’s indicating what. Burden of Command loves putting circles on things.

Burden Of Command

Burden of Command – Respectful Warfare

The thing I keep coming back to is the level of respect shown by the developers. Even aside from all the researched footage. The decision to focus on suppression, rather than standard combat, was rooted in the fact that small arms fire didn’t often win a fight, for instance. Leaders also aren’t just a faceless person behind a screen. Captain Blackburn was literally there in the field, taking positions and being shot at. Leading your men means wading in with them.

It’s a fairly unique take on the battlefield, and I think Burden of Command pulls it off. I found myself getting into it, perhaps more so because it forbids save scumming. It perhaps explains its mechanics a little inelegantly, relying on fourth-wall breaking instructional videos, but once you’re let loose in Morocco then it all comes together. I’ve not gotten too far in, having just stormed the beaches at Sicily, but I’m liking it. Burden of Command tries to recreate the horrors of war both on and off the battlefield, and it results in a thoroughly absorbing warfare RPG.

(Burden of Command‘s Steam Page)

Review: HE65 Mag keyboard

Daniel Waite
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Review: HE65 Mag keyboard

The HE65 Mag keyboard from Epomaker revolutionises the way you game! This stunning small-form-factor keyboard offers razor-sharp precision and plenty of custom options. Moreover, it looks fantastic, thanks to the clean livery and the south-facing RGB. Though Epomaker is an affordable brand, they do not cut corners. Instead, they offer high-quality products at a fraction of the cost.

This incredible gaming peripheral has hot-swappable switches and mind-blowing Hall Effect switches as standard. If you want a competitive keyboard that will stand out from the crowd, this is the device for you. If this isn’t enough, it delivers low latency via wired or its 2.4 GHz wireless connection. Accordingly, lag and slow inputs needn’t stand in the way of victory.

What’s in the box of the HE65 Mag keyboard?

  • The packaging is compact but strong. Furthermore, it can be recycled and it is great to look at.
  • The HE65 Mag keyboard is a 65% form factor device. This is great for compact workstations. Moreover, it has a helpful display screen for custom GIFs and live data.
  • A USB-C cable can charge the device.
  • Pull the keys with the keycap tool.
  • Spare switches are provided.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The HE65 Mag keyboard offers an incredible array of next-generation technology. The Hall Effect switches have customisable actuation distance for the ultimate gaming experience. Moreover, unlike mechanical switches, there is no physical contact required. As such, you experience instantaneous results depending on your actuation preference.

On top of this, the polling rate and latency are market-leading. This keyboard delivers around 10 times faster polling rate than other gaming keyboards. The incredible 8K polling rate reduces latency to a blink and you’ll miss it 0.125ms latency. Consequently, this will give you a match-winning edge in any competitive environment.

Wireless gaming is a must for many gamers. Thankfully, 2×4,000 mAh batteries deliver a whopping 600 hours of continuous battery life. This was amazing and more than enough for most marathon gaming sessions. If you run out of juice, you can use a wired connection and charge the device while you continue playing.

Build quality.

The HE65 Mag keyboard is a beautiful device! The black, grey, and blue livery is pleasant to look at. Moreover, the impressive RGB can be altered to create your ideal light show. The plastic case may disappoint lovers of high-grade materials. However, it feels nice to hold, and the weight and balance are just right.

Epomaker have a nice feature of adding interesting data screens to their devices. The RT100 keyboard is one peripheral that jumps to mind. This tiny data screen could be seen as a fad. Yet, you can customise it via the free-to-download software and add an animation or GIF of your choosing. Alternatively, you can observe key data from your PC to ensure things are running smoothly. Either way, the screen is cool, and it’s a must-have for lovers of unusual tech.

Is the HE65 Mag keyboard worth it?

I’ve tried many excellent keyboards, and I’ve loved them all. They all have minor differences, and every Epomaker device has impressed me. Thankfully, the HE65 Mag keyboard is no different. The exceptional Hall Effect switches are a game changer. Moreover, I loved altering the actuation distance to suit whatever genre I was tackling. Alongside this, the RGB is fantastic, and I adore the data screen. 

This affordable device is compact and perfect for small workstations. Alternatively, maybe you game on the move and need something to fit in your bag. Either way, this device is ideal and one I recommend buying here!

(More information on Epomaker can be found here!)

The HE65 Mag keyboard has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: The Talos Principle: Reawakened

James Refelian
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Review: The Talos Principle: Reawakened

The Talos Principle: Reawakened, developed by Croteam and published by Devolver Digital, breathes new life into the beloved puzzle classic from 2014. It aims to introduce the critically acclaimed philosophical puzzler to modern audiences with enhanced visuals, expanded content, and refined gameplay mechanics.

Stunning Visual Revamp

The most immediately noticeable improvement in The Talos Principle: Reawakened is its graphical overhaul, which utilises Unreal Engine 5. This technological leap is significant, delivering vibrant, dynamic lighting effects, realistic shadows, and significantly improved texture fidelity. The environments, ancient ruins interwoven with futuristic technology, now appear remarkably immersive, helping to heighten the game’s philosophical ambience.

However, while the enhancements are impressive, they’re not without flaws. Certain elements, such as vegetation and smaller environmental details, can sometimes look dated compared to the rest of the improvements. Despite these stunning visuals, players with mid-range PC setups might face occasional performance hiccups, with notable frame rate dips occurring during particularly dense scenes or puzzle segments.

Expanded Narrative and Gameplay Additions in The Talos Principle: Reawakened

Reawakened isn’t simply about aesthetic upgrades; the developers have added meaningful new content that enhances the narrative experience. The new expansion, “In the Beginning,” provides additional context and backstory, focusing heavily on Alexandra Drennan’s journey and the philosophical questions around artificial intelligence and human consciousness. This addition expands the already profound story, enriching the player’s understanding and emotional connection to the game’s overarching themes.

Further, the inclusion of new puzzles in this expansion delivers challenges that blend seamlessly with the original puzzles, maintaining the series’ intricate and thought-provoking nature. These new additions don’t feel forced or redundant but complement and elevate the existing puzzle dynamics. For veteran players seeking fresh puzzles, this expansion offers precisely the level of sophistication and complexity desired.

User-Centric Puzzle Editor

One of the standout new features is the comprehensive puzzle editor. This robust toolset empowers players to craft their own puzzles, drastically extending the game’s replayability. The community-driven aspect ensures a steady stream of fresh content, continually evolving the experience.

This editor is intuitive enough for casual users yet deep enough for enthusiasts, encouraging creativity and collaboration within the community. It significantly enriches the game’s lifespan and presents nearly endless opportunities for players who want to delve deeper into puzzle design. However, players who prefer strictly curated experiences might find the user-generated puzzles to vary considerably in quality and coherence, occasionally diluting the consistently high standards of the official puzzles.

The puzzles in The Talos Principle: Reawakened encompass a diverse range of logic-based challenges designed to test spatial reasoning, timing, and problem-solving skills. Players navigate through intricate environmental puzzles using lasers, pressure plates, movable objects, and jamming devices to unlock gates and pathways. Each puzzle demands careful observation, strategic planning, and thoughtful interaction with the game’s mechanisms. The difficulty curve is well-balanced, gradually introducing new mechanics and increasing complexity, which keeps gameplay fresh and intellectually rewarding throughout the experience.

Comparison to the Original

The original Talos Principle remains a landmark game, notable for its intellectual depth and challenging puzzle mechanics. Reawakened preserves these core elements but substantially improves upon them. The graphical upgrades and expanded narrative components justify revisiting the game even for players who thoroughly enjoyed the original.

However, purists might argue that the original’s charm and identity did not require such enhancements, considering the first game’s timeless nature. This remaster walks a fine line, adding enough to warrant renewed attention but potentially alienating those who feel the original’s simplicity and subtlety were key to its appeal.

Final Thoughts on The Talos Principle: Reawakened

The Talos Principle: Reawakened successfully modernises an outstanding puzzle classic, offering substantial new content and a striking visual presentation. While it’s not without its faults, particularly regarding performance optimisation, its thoughtful enhancements and additional features justify its place on modern platforms. For fans of puzzles, philosophical narratives, and immersive experiences, Reawakened is undoubtedly worth exploring as a fresh adventure and a tribute to a beloved classic.

The Talos Principle: Reawakened is available now on  PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S. Reviewed on PC. For more information, check out the official website.

Review: South of Midnight

Cody May
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Review: South of Midnight

In 2018, Xbox acquired developer Complusion Games, makers of Contrast and We Happy Few. Now, seven years later, their first game (South of Midnight) released as part of Xbox Games Studio is here.

South of Midnight weaves beauty and chaos together to create an unforgettable journey.


Critters and Weavers

South of Midnight’s world is both beautiful and haunting. It pulls from the Deep South mythos, using the games setting to inspire its world and characters. From giant talking catfish to a big ole gator. You will meet all manner of friend and foe here and you’ll remember each and every one of them.

This world isn’t just there as a backdrop. Compulsion didn’t pick the south because they thought it would make for a pretty setting. They clearly were inspired and seen the potential of a part of the world we don’t see too often in gaming. You feel it with every inch you explore.

In terms of story, Compulsion nails the narrative in this game. Characters are the heart and soul of South of Midnight and the writing is so good that even side characters stories pack a punch. From notes you find in the world, to character sub-plots, and even cows trapped on top of barns floating in flood waters. The world, although mystical, feels real, adding weight and depth to everyone and thing you meet.

You play as Hazel, a young woman determined to do anything to save her Mom. Throughout her journey she uncovers more about herself, her families history, and what it means to be a weaver.

Hazel is a great main character, elevated by a strong performance from her voice actress Adriyan Rae. The catfish, voiced by Walt Roberts was another standout for me as well as Laurent voiced by Joel Steingold. All of the performances in this game are amazing, enough good things can’t be said about the voice acting.

Haint No Grave

It’s not all about story in South of Midnight. Gameplay is a big part of the experience here. It is by no means super complex but I found myself enjoying the combat more than I thought I would.

It’s a really fun system, one that can and should be expanded upon in a sequel. It has all of the basics of a modern combat system you’d expect. Attack with the X button, press B to dodge, and use those abilities as you battle the enemies known as “Haints”.

Combat never happens at random, you always know you’re about to enter battle when you see an arena of blight (stigma) ahead of you. You enter, kill the bad guys, and purge the blight. After the blight is gone, flowers bloom around, as if the earth itself is thanking you for cleansing the corruption.


I understand why they did this, however, I would much prefer enemies scattered throughout. It would make encounters more lively, fighting in open space as opposed to a condensed arena.


This also presents problems for the game. The most glaring is repetitiveness. Not only with combat but with the structure itself. The game shows you many of its ideas in the beginning chapters, and continues using them without much changing the rest of the way.

It is one of the major flaws of South of Midnight. Combat remains fun but encounters and enemy variety don’t change much later in the game.

The Ballad of Two-Toed-Tom

Perhaps the strongest aspects of South of Midnight is its aesthetic and sound. The art-style is one of the prettiest, most unique things I’ve seen in gaming. The way this world and its characters look, move, and feel encapsulates the beauty of art.

Combine that with one of the best and most unique soundtracks I’ve heard, and you’ve got a winner. Hearing rugged guitars and banjos used so eloquently is outstanding.

My favorite thing about the soundtrack is how they deliver it. When you are approaching a boss, you’ll hear bits and pieces of the theme, teasing you of its whereabouts.

As you approach that big ole gator Two-Toed-Tom you hear the words being sung to you “Two-Toed-Tom, Two-Toed-Tom” with a soft ominous instrumental arrangement in the background. Then, once you come face to face with Tom and his two toes, you hear the full song.


I can’t quite convey how well this is executed. To put it in the best words I can, South of Midnight is a spectacle of senses.

Conclusion

South of Midnight represents everything gaming is about. Gaming at its core is a true amalgamation of all major art-forms. Music, visuals, story, art-style. The ability to take all of those and make something that stands out is no easy feat.

South of Midnight not only accomplishes it, it excels at it. Compulsion poured their hearts into making something they were truly passionate about. You feel it every second of it you play.

From the stop motion intro when you load up the game, to the heart-wrenching stories of the people you meet. This world matters to the developers, which in turn makes it matter to you.

They have crafted a world ripe for adventure, characters, and future storytelling. There’s so much potential here, I hope Xbox continues to invest in this world and studio.

South of Midnight is a must play.

Top 10 Clutch Kings in CS Matches – Stats Don’t Lie

Andrew Edney
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Top 10 Clutch Kings in CS Matches – Stats Don’t Lie

In the high-pressure world of Counter-Strike 2, not all players are created equal. While some crumble under pressure, others transform into unstoppable forces when left alone against multiple opponents. These clutch situations define careers, create legendary highlights, and separate the good from the truly great players.

When analyzing cs matches from LAN tournaments over the past year, the statistical difference between average professionals and clutch specialists becomes strikingly apparent. While most players maintain a clutch success rate of around 20-25% in 1v2 situations and below 10% in 1v3+, the elite clutchers consistently perform at rates nearly double those averages. These numbers aren’t flukes – they represent a special combination of mechanical skill, game sense, psychological fortitude, and strategic brilliance.

1. Nicolai “device” Reedtz

Despite stepping away from the game for a period, device’s return to competitive CS2 has reminded everyone why he’s considered the most complete player in history. His clutch statistics remain exceptional, with a 36% success rate in 1v2s and a remarkable 17% in 1v3s. What makes device special isn’t flashy plays but his methodical approach to isolating duels and capitalizing on enemy mistakes. His mastery of post-plant positions and utility usage creates winnable scenarios where others would see none.

2. Aleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev

While s1mple may be known for his aggressive AWPing and mechanical brilliance, his clutch statistics reveal his complete mastery of the game. With a 39% success rate in 1v2 situations, the highest among all tier-1 players, s1mple thrives in scenarios where his decision-making isn’t restricted by team strategies. His unpredictability makes him particularly dangerous – opponents can never be certain if he’ll take an aggressive peek or play patiently for the time advantage.

3. Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut

The French prodigy boasts clutch numbers that defy conventional wisdom. ZywOo’s 1v3 success rate of 19% leads all professionals in 2025, demonstrating remarkable consistency in the most difficult scenarios. What separates ZywOo is his exceptional trigger discipline and positioning, rarely revealing his location until absolutely necessary. His ability to remain calm under pressure translates to precise headshots even in the most chaotic retakes.

4. Nikola “NiKo” Kovač

Perhaps the most mechanically gifted rifler in CS2, NiKo’s clutch prowess comes from his ability to win duels that other players simply cannot. His 1v2 success rate of 34% is complemented by some of the highest headshot percentages in clutch scenarios. NiKo’s game sense allows him to predict enemy movements with uncanny accuracy, often pre-firing common positions for quick eliminations that create momentum in seemingly impossible situations.

5. Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov

The youngest player on this list, m0NESY has established himself as a clutch specialist with an aggressive AWPing style that creates unique advantages in late-round scenarios. His 1v2 success rate of 33% and 1v3 rate of 14% demonstrate maturity beyond his years. What’s most impressive is his clutch performance on T-side – traditionally more difficult than CT clutches – where he excels at creating space with minimal utility.

6. Håvard “rain” Nygaard

A veteran presence in the scene, rain’s clutch statistics have remarkably improved with age. Now boasting a 32% success rate in 1v2s, rain’s expertise comes from hundreds of clutch scenarios throughout his career. His spray control remains unmatched, allowing him to take fights against multiple opponents simultaneously – a high-risk approach that has become his signature in clutch rounds.

7. Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken

The North American star combines precise aim with intelligent positioning to achieve a 33% success rate in 1v2 situations. Twistzz excels particularly in retake scenarios, where his methodical clearing of angles and exceptional crosshair placement maximize his chances. His clutches rarely look flashy but demonstrate textbook Counter-Strike fundamentals executed to perfection.

8. Dmitry “sh1ro” Sokolov

The quiet assassin of CS2, sh1ro’s clutch statistics reflect his patient and calculated playstyle. With a 31% success rate in 1v2s and 15% in 1v3s, he excels particularly with the AWP in post-plant situations. His ability to use sound cues to gain information while giving away minimal audio of his own movement creates information asymmetry that consistently favors him in clutch scenarios.

9. Denis “electroNic” Sharipov

Often overshadowed by flashier teammates, electroNic’s clutch statistics reveal his importance to any roster. His 30% success rate in 1v2s comes from exceptional utility usage that creates favorable duels. ElectroNic’s specialization in clutch situations is his fake defuse plays, consistently forcing opponents into disadvantageous peeks when time pressure mounts.

10. Casper “cadiaN” Møller

The in-game leader with the highest clutch success rates, cadiaN defies the conventional wisdom that tacticians can’t be mechanical stars. His 29% success rate in 1v2s and numerous highlight-reel 1v3+ clutches demonstrate his multifaceted skills. What separates cadiaN is his psychological approach – using voice comms even when alone to maintain his composure and frequently employing unconventional plays that catch opponents off-guard.

The statistics don’t lie – these ten players have consistently turned impossible situations into victory through a combination of skill, intelligence, and mental fortitude that separates them from even their professional peers. As CS2 continues to evolve, their clutch performances remain the gold standard by which all players are measured.

Review: Everhood 2

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Everhood 2

Developed by Chris Nordgren & Jordi Rica and published by Foreign Games, Everhood 2 is a 2d top-down RPG from the same family of games as Undertale.

Going on too long has many risks: boring the other guy, losing your point, or sounding like a self-absorbed lunatic. However, a game going on for too long just gets lost in the bland territory. Today, however, I want to talk about a game with a 5-star length but lacking variety, which made them shoot away till only 1 was left.

I am talking about Everhood, a 2d top-down RPG from the same family as Undertale, with a submersive combat system… that never changes and only gets longer and longer as the game goes on.

Everhood 2, the Forgotten Plot

You play as a character, I think I named myself, but can’t remember who falls into a rabbit hole and are isen away from their lovely white void home. After getting attacked by a giant hawk, they are told to go out into the world and save it from destruction or something…

As you can probably tell, I never really connected with the story, my frustration grew the more I played and, eventually any guidance just felt like the path to follow, kind of deal. I just know it had something to do with saving the world or something.

I mentioned Undertale earlier, but sadly, the animation style is as far as we go. There are very few characters per area to talk to, and most are just background fluff with two and, if you are lucky, three lines of dialogue. Barring the aforementioned giant hawk, every story’s progressing character feels quite binary and would only exist to usher you to the next scene.

The One Thing Everhood 2 Gets Right… Kind of

The real deal maker(and eventually, breaker) was the combat. Just like Undertale, combat begins by interacting with a hostile NPC. The game cuts away and brings you to the combat system stage. 

Imagine Guitar Hero or any similar rhythm game; that is the platform we see. A lane is split into five. As combat begins, different coloured rays would come down the splits at random speeds. 

To attack, you must consume a collection of the same coloured rays and shoot them back at your enemy. You can move left or right to collect or avoid rays. If you fail to absorb a ray and it hits you, you lose health. The more rays you collect, the stronger your attack will be. 

Two different coloured rays cannot be collected at the same time and would result in the collection returning to 1 for the latest coloured ray.

Sound Fun?

Well, it’s because it is. It was amazing to experience this gameplay in Everhood 2. 

Alas, the law of diminishing returns is as real as the smell of a dying dog’s farts. Combat after combat after combat after combat, the only difference ever being the size of the enemy’s health bar, made me end up hating this game with a passion.

The Final Verdict

Starting with a unique combat system that was fresh and engaging, until it wasn’t. The game is beautifully drawn, but it’s all a thin veneer over the pale and lacking characters and dialogue. The story that starts with an intrigue slowly feels like a lifeless backdrop to other ideas.

However, I want to reiterate, the gameplay is good. It is unique and has charm.

In short, Characters are forgettable, dialogue is sparse, the and world is lifeless. And the only good thing, the gameplay, is very repetitive. 

As far as my recommendation goes, I feel disappointed, but I cannot turn anyone away. So in these troubling times, I shall leave you with a scarlet 7.

Review: Morkull Ragast’s Rage

Daniel Waite
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Review: Morkull Ragast’s Rage

Morkull Ragast’s Rage is a game I was desperate to enjoy. On paper, it has everything I love: humour, hand-drawn graphics, a dark atmosphere, and challenging gameplay. However, once you scratch the surface, you realise that things aren’t quite as they seem. If you then chuck in corrupted saves, bugs, and a sense of unfair frustration, this game falls way short of expectations.

This action adventure title was developed by Disaster Games Studio and published by Selecta Play. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a Metroidvania edge. This edgy title should have stood out from the sea of average indie titles. Yet, its poor execution and dull gameplay left me wanting.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage tells a familiar plot.

Morkull is the God of Death and Destruction. He has been imprisoned in Ragast and wishes to break free. If he can complete his task, he hopes to rule the overworld and show everyone what he is made of. En route, he will tell some “hilarious” jokes, and he regularly breaks the fourth wall with his cutting dialogue. Sadly, though, the jokes fall flat, and I found myself skimming through the one-liners rather than laughing as intended.

The action follows familiar Metroidvania traits, and this will be a joy or a pain in the arse depending on if you like or dislike the genre. The constant back-and-forth becomes tiresome, and it isn’t helped that every enemy is a damage sponge. Fights take too long, and no matter how powerful you become, there is always the risk of death and failure. Death wouldn’t be so bad, but checkpoints are few and far between, and the in-game currency of souls is halved every time you perish. Consequently, death becomes a real pain in the behind, and frustration kicks in.

Interesting puzzles.

Though dying was my main gripe and the shout of “Get Gud” echoed around my brain, I enjoyed the interesting puzzles. Each area has switches to activate, lifts to ride, and items to find. Moreover, there is plenty of precision platforming to execute and loads of obstacles to avoid. This element of Morkull Ragast’s Rage was fantastic. I loved dashing through the air and clasping onto walls. Additionally, avoiding deadly spiders and projectiles was a rewarding challenge.

The exploration and puzzling elements were phenomenal, but the lack of checkpoints and the guarantee of death ensured that failure was always around the corner. What’s more, exploring the same area a hundred times because of death and mistakes quickly became tiresome. This issue could have been avoided had more checkpoints been included. I understand that the developers wanted to make a tough game, but this was borderline offensive.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage caught my eye.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage delivers an aesthetical mixed bag. The environments, atmosphere, and colour palette are a joy to experience. The developer clearly loves this project, and they’ve invested plenty of time and effort into the world and unique backdrops. However, the same cannot be said for the combat animation! The odd 2 or 3 frame movement looks rough as it doesn’t match the highly polished backdrop.

The music, unfortunately, follows suit. It feels like an afterthought, as the songs are repetitive and the sound effects are dull. It is as if the developers chucked every metaphorical egg into their overall appearance and forgot that lots of components deliver an aesthetically pleasing product.

Odd hitboxes.

Melee combat and parrying are not new ideas. However, Morkull Ragast’s Rage has a weird take on this rudimentary concept. The hero can unlock new combos when he has collected enough souls. New combos should be exciting, but every enemy absorbs his blows like they are nonexistent. This is extremely frustrating and made much worse by the odd hitboxes. Some creatures can be smashed with ease, and others are nearly impossible to take down. This cements the feelings of imbalance and increases the rage and frustration levels just a little higher.

I’ve read mixed reports on how long this takes to finish. I invested plenty of hours, but I had to restart the game 3 times as my data never saved. This was understandably annoying and the main reason I never finished a playthrough. Moreover, it is one of the reasons my review is so negative. Replaying the same hell multiple times was not good, to say the least. If you somehow get around this issue, you should be able to complete a run in around 6 hours.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage was a mess.

I would have loved Morkull Ragast’s Rage to be a raving success. However, it is plagued by issues and the game stutters and crumbles. I don’t mind a challenging experience, but this pushes things to the next level. Too many flaws undermine an already tough title, and the dialogue isn’t enough to bring a smile to your face. As such, unless you are a massive fan of the genre, I’d give this a miss. More information can be found here, though! Can you escape and fulfil your destiny? Learn new skills, overcome every obstacle, and become the deadly God you were destined to be.

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