Review: Suikoden I & II Remaster

Daniel Waite
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Review: Suikoden I & II Remaster

The Suikoden I & II Remaster mega bundle is a dream combination! This franchise has long been my favourite, and I’m lucky enough to own the original disc-based games. However, remastering is the modern fad and I couldn’t help but be drawn into this trap. I have covered many remastered titles and I always feel a little dirty. This experience was different. I felt like a child reliving that first playthrough, which is a great feeling. Accordingly, if you have played this series or are new to it, you will enjoy the magic and sparkle of both unique titles. 

KONAMI developed and published this JRPG adventure. Moreover, as expected, it is a single-player game with a dated aesthetic. The second game in the series is much cleaner and representative of a shift to modern standards. The first, however, is a beautiful walk down memory lane with its pixelated imagery, sharp colours, and refined mechanics. In short, both are great, but Suikoden I lives and breathes old-school in every sense. 

Suikoden I & II Remaster tells a tale of rebellion. 

Everyone loves a story of an underdog and their rebellious ways. Suikoden I & II Remaster is dripping in this upstarting and small victory mindset. Along the way, you will recruit people from every walk of life. These nobodies and occasional heroes show that an honourable approach and a high moral standing are the way forward. 

Both games have similar themes running through the core storyline. Yet, some differences will resonate with you for one reason or another. I always preferred Suikoden I as I adore the downtrodden people and the sudden uprising. This isn’t to say Suikoden II is poor by comparison, because it isn’t. Both games focus on core geopolitical scenarios and the fight for land and rights. Moreover, there is a wonderful army of protagonists and classic antagonists to overcome. 

Time to recruit. 

The ability to explore a vast world and recruit an army of nobodies and heroes was revolutionary. However, this idea may seem dated by modern standards. I can’t help but smile at the thought of hiring a farmer, chef, cartographer, wizard, and so forth. Each of these recruits will not form part of my 6 strong party, but they are helpful to my resistance, nonetheless. They help to build my headquarters and bring unique elements to my growing force. After all, who doesn’t fear a band of 100+ underdogs and their pissed-off ways?

Playing the first game first isn’t essential, but it is advised. There is a bonus if you recruit every would-be warrior and this makes a huge difference in Suikoden II. What’s more, many of these fighters return in the sequel, so it is easier to follow the action if you play the titles as intended. 

What’s different? 

A remaster wouldn’t be a remaster unless there were some minor differences. Thankfully, Suikoden I & II Remaster retains much of its original charm. This will appease the hardcore fan base and shouldn’t annoy new players. 

The script has been overhauled slightly to remove some of the issues and clean things up. As a youngster, I skimmed over these problems, but they’ve irked me for much of my adult life. Consequently, though there are some minor problems, the script and dialogue now flow nicely. 

Other major changes focus on visual improvements rather than key gameplay alterations. The character portraits look sharper and the UI is cleaner and easier to work around. Moreover, there is an autosave feature which is useful for forgetful gamers. On top of this, you can now fast-forward battles if you have the patience of a toddler. 

Suikoden I & II Remaster looks amazing. 

Suikoden I & II Remaster looks amazing! I could just be horribly biased, but I was impressed with the modern touches. The sharper colours and crisper lines make this pleasant to the eye. However, this modern polish doesn’t undermine the old-school roots. The pixelation and vibrant colour palette are undeniably dated. Furthermore, the simplicity of the UI and the character models tweak your nostalgia-fueled heartstrings. 

The overworld is a thing of beauty, but I adore the different combat approaches from each game. Turn-based gameplay expands to a massive grid-style army battle with runes and commands. This evolving approach gives lovers of every type of RPG something to look forward to. I preferred the simplicity of the first game, but I enjoyed the challenge and design of the second instalment. 

The audio doesn’t disappoint. The soundtrack is as glorious as it always was. The blend of drama, anger, grit, and determination drives the story and each battle forward. Yet, it is the inclusion of new ambient sound effects that makes this pop. The world feels alive and it was a joy to fight, explore, and relive this hectic and oppressive world. 

Spectacular controls. 

As a child, I was relatively adept at playing computer games. Subsequently, I never struggled to pick this up and play. Thankfully, that has continued through my adult life and this remaster was equally easy to master. The control system is a joy to experience and the inputs and control layout are brilliant. New to the series gamers will enjoy learning the fundamentals and exploring the different combat elements. 

Suikoden I & II Remaster combines hours of enjoyable gameplay. If you are a completionist, there is so much depth and plenty of characters to recruit. Though the first instalment is relatively short, the sequel is larger, more challenging, and bound to keep you coming back for more. 

Suikoden I & II Remaster is a raving success. 

It would have taken a lot for me to dislike this remastered game. Thankfully, KONAMI did everything right and only improved areas that could move the series forward. This wise choice will appeal to gamers of all descriptions. Moreover, though there are some dated elements, they are wonderfully complemented by the modern polish and the incredible storytelling. Accordingly, this is a raving success and I recommend buying it here! Old-school gaming doesn’t get better than this. Pick your party, explore a vast world, and prove that underdogs can win!

Tech To Make Your Life Easier? Sounds Great

Andrew Edney
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Tech To Make Your Life Easier? Sounds Great

Location Credit – CC0 License

Tech was created to make your life easier, and that’s exactly what it does. While we know that some people have issues with certain pieces of tech, the general consensus is that it helps the majority of people who use it. It makes life more efficient, and it generally takes some of the difficulty out of life. 

The good news with tech is that there are so many different types for every aspect of your life. Keep reading down below if you would like to find out more.

For The Kitchen

The first thing that we’re going to be looking at is tech for the kitchen. There are now some amazing pieces of tech for the heart of the home, but one of the best is definitely the smart fridge. This has made life so much easier for so many people all because you can hook it up to your phone and see what is inside your fridge no matter where you are. Thinking of something for dinner tonight? You don’t have to guess if you have that item in, you can take a look. If not, you can pick it up on your way home.

Gone are the days of standing in the store, not knowing what you need and what you don’t. Gone are the days of making lists, leaving them on the kitchen countertop, and then having to stress the whole way around the store. On top of this, you can also set it so that you get alerts when you’re running low on a specific item or if you are reaching the use by date.

In The Garden

When you decide to get out in the garden and make it look decent again, it’s not going to be easy. You’re probably going to need pieces of tech such as a strimmer, a lawnmower, a weed wacker and so much more. It will take you some time to get through all of the mess to create the beautiful garden that you are thinking of, but that’s okay, with the help of this tech it will go faster than if you had to do it all by hand.

Also, if you want to add a patio or some decking, but you don’t want to hire someone to do this for you, you can do it yourself. The internet is a handy invention that will show you what you need to do, it’s just a case of whether you trust yourself using all of the tech and tools, and being able to lay it properly.

General Home Life

If you are on the lookout for tech to make your home life easier then the good news is, you can get many items these days. For instance, if you often forget things or you need to set timers then you might benefit from a smart speaker. They can also play your music through them and can be used to call other smart speakers in your home. If you want to know what people in the household want for dinner then you could ring upstairs and someone will answer. It doesn’t just stop at your household. Certain personal assistants and speakers can be used to video call and voice chat with friends and family across the land. Check out the various ones on the market to see which ones will be best for you. 

Location Sharing

Finally, there is tech out there now that knows exactly where you are at any given time. When you are out and about, your friends and family might want to know your location. This is perfectly normal and it can be used to ensure you are safe at all times. Location sharing became a thing when snapchat was released, thanks to their map sharing function. Friends now knew each other’s whereabouts and could find them if they ever went silent or they knew they were in trouble. 

If you are traveling or you go abroad then share your location as you never know when it could save your life. Location sharing makes your life a whole lot easier as you won’t always need to reply to messages asking where you are. Location sharing is available through most platforms now, whatsapp, snapchat, and imessage. 

Hopefully you found this article useful and it gave you some information on the tech that can make your life easier. There will always be new and useful technology coming out so make sure you keep on top of that as you never know what you can get help with next. 

Review: PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C

Daniel Waite
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Review: PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C

In December 2024 I reviewed the PNY Pro Elite V3 USB flash drive. This robust and compact beast impressed me with its professional build quality and high speed. However, the traditional USB-A connection was frustrating as it restricted its uses. Thankfully, PNY has listened to the feedback and released the PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C. This phenomenal storage device has rapid read and write speeds and up to 2TB capacity. Accordingly, it is the ideal device for content creators and anyone who needs to handle massive files.

This impressive device delivers up to 1000 MB/s read speeds and up to 800 MB/s write speed. This makes it a ridiculously fast device when you consider its compact nature and price point. What’s more, the modern USB-C connection is compatible with many mobile phones and PCs or laptops. This versatility makes it a great option if you have the latest setup. Alternatively, the aforementioned USB-A version may be more suitable if your PC is missing a USB-C port.

Technical aspects.

The PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Flash drive as such, it is future-proofed and up to 256 times faster than a USB 2.0 device. Now, this may not seem important, but when time is money, you want your files to be transferred quickly and safely. Fortunately, this device does that and I wasn’t disappointed. Furthermore, I never struggled with overheating and there were no compatibility issues. This ensures that inexperienced users will not struggle no matter the data they handle.

I tested the product using CrystalDiskMark. There are plenty of other suitable programs, but this is my go-to option. I used this to test my SK Hynix drives and this will be my benchmark. The advertised speeds look great on paper, but how did this drive fair when I transferred large 4K movie files from my PC onto the device? Well, in short, it was remarkable! 

Benchmark scores.

The USB-A version delivered 945 MB/s read speeds and 735 MB/s write speeds on average. As such, this was what I was hoping to beat. Unsurprisingly, though, the PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C delivered almost identical results across 5 different attempts. 946 MB/s read speeds and 732 MB/s write speeds on average were the outcome. This was phenomenal as you are guaranteed exceptional performance no matter which USB connection you choose.

Build quality.

I’ve reviewed and purchased many PNY products in my time and they never disappoint. The latest design and metal casing are perfect for professionals who wish to create a great first impression. Additionally, no one wants their data to be damaged because the drive they use is woeful. Thankfully, this one is so well built that you can throw it in your bag, pocket, or draw and it will take the rough and tumble.

The push mechanism is strong and I had no issues with this design. The USB-C male connection was well protected in the metal casing. Moreover, there is a handy opening to connect a clip to keep the device close to hand.

Is the PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C worth it?

If you want a rapid device that is well-built, easy to use and has a modern connection, then this is the device for you. I love the premium finish and the hard-wearing case. Furthermore, the read and write speeds are on par or better than many of its similar-priced peers. Consequently, you are getting a fantastic device with all the pros and no cons and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on PNY can be found here!)

The PNY Pro Elite V3 Type-C has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: The Executive – Movie Industry Tycoon

Saim Khurshid
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Review: The Executive – Movie Industry Tycoon

Developed by Aniki Games and produced by Goblinz Publishing and Maple Whispering Limited, The Executive—Movie Industry Tycoon is a movie production simulation Tycoon that focuses on the financial and critique sides of the industry.

There are many Tycoon games in the market, and it becomes hard to get your game some attention. It’s a hard industry, and only the original and the really good can stand out. With that said, why on earth would you release such a generic concept for a game in this oversaturated market?

Well, somehow, it came under my radar, so let’s talk about it- let’s talk about The Executive. 

Another day Another Tycoon

The Executive – Movie Industry Tycoon, what I will be referring to as The Executive from now on, is a complete package game. It’s a Tycoon, it’s a simulator. In short, it is what you can imagine.

You start the game and choose difficulty. There is not much difference between the four choices. Starting from inheriting money from parents to picking up a loan from the bank, it merely decides your starting capital and debt(if any).

From there on, select your company name with logo and Character name and face. 

Once the game begins, you have a list of things you can do. Look at analytics, hire talent or just simply make a movie. The budget of the movie, the number of cast members, and the genre/theme of the film are selected from available options. As The Executive moves forward, you are expected to embark on research that will allow you to add more styles, themes, and concepts to make movies. 

Your progress or lack thereof can be seen by the condition of the office on screen. The ultimate goal is to make a profit.

So, a functioning little Tycoon. Sadly, I feel I have seen or played the same game as The Executive many times before. Let’s explore that feeling.

Lack of Executive Reason

Having played the game, I can’t help but say that The Executive doesn’t bring anything new to the table. It follows the same formula as countless other tycoon games, offering a standard experience without innovation.

The gameplay, from selecting your starting conditions to producing movies, feels overly familiar and lacks any unique features that would make it stand out in the crowded genre.

It’s a case of ticking off all the expected boxes without offering any fresh twists or deeper mechanics to keep players engaged.

The Executive just does not have any big wow moments. Don’t get me wrong, it is a perfectly functioning game. Infact, in a situation where I have nothing else to play, I would happily give it more time. A scenario quite unlikely to happen..

Even this review feels like it is going in a loop. Just not much to discuss, as the game offers nothing new. Let’s just wrap it up.

Just Another Amongst Others

The Executive – Movie Industry Tycoon does exactly what you expect but not much more. It’s a solid game that functions well, but it doesn’t bring anything new or exciting to the table. 

In a genre saturated with similar titles, it struggles to distinguish itself and quickly fades into the sea of other tycoon games. 

While it could entertain for a short while, it lacks the depth or innovation needed to keep players invested in the long term. If you’re looking for something fresh or groundbreaking, The Executive likely won’t scratch that itch. 

It’s a perfectly fine experience, but one that’s all too familiar, and in this oversaturated market, that’s simply not enough to make it stand out.

Review: Parkitect

Daniel Waite
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Review: Parkitect

Parkitect filled me with nostalgic vibes. I’m of an age where Theme Park, Theme Hospital, and the original Sims games thrived. These titles were silly, complex, and just a joy to play. Accordingly, for me to consider Parkitect in the same vein is high praise indeed.

This park-building simulation game was developed by Texel Raptor and published by Blitworks. Furthermore, it is a single-player title that uses a bird’s eye perspective. This was key as each park can become hectic and you want to keep on top of things. Like its peers, you are expected to juggle multiple elements at once. Satisfaction, new rides, and ratings are the aim of the game. Alternatively, you can do the bare minimum and grab as much cash as possible.

Parkitect is fun from the off. 

I rarely jump into a game with both feet. I like the idea of taking my time and I feel my way into the action. However, Parkitect was different. Though the action and setting are unique, it had an undeniably familiar edge. This was great as I could get up to speed in no time at all. Moreover, I was having fun from the opening gambit. 

The exceptional tutorial helps set the scene, but the ability to play through an array of scenarios or the sandbox mode was great. I admit that I spent most of my time playing through the 30-odd scenarios. In short, they were fantastic, fun, and pretty challenging. Unlike the freedom of the sandbox, you are asked to complete tasks to get through each level. This rigidity was entertaining and I liked the goals.

Just as fun as its dated peers. 

To say that Parkitect is as good as its dated peers is some statement. Yet, I can easily make that comment! The simplicity of the gameplay and the fast-flowing action was impressive. Combining these elements with the incredible UI and challenging gameplay was a master stroke.

Watching your park grow and evolve across the massive arenas was fascinating. Additionally, managing finances and customer satisfaction was tough. Furthermore, planning a seamless park where guests and staff coexist but remain apart wasn’t as easy as you’d hoped. This balancing act was the perfect storm and something that keeps you returning for more.

Parkitect looks great. 

There are plenty of special and ultra-realistic games. However, I have a soft spot for dated and pixelated affairs. The harsh colours and rough textures remind me of my youth. Moreover, the sense of rigidity in the largest of spaces makes you focus on the details. 

The audio was as loud and as fun as you’d expect. Whoops of joy and the odd scream of terror are matched by some unfortunate sounds. These noises demand centre stage and they overpower everything else. This isn’t a complaint as I loved the sense of fun and the occasional moment of danger.

Great controls. 

Parkitect would have been better with a mouse and keyboard. However, I think the controller setup is good and I could navigate every obstacle with ease. This doesn’t make it perfect, but I think the developer did a fine job of making this genre work on a console.

I wasn’t able to complete every scenario for this review. This may be disappointing, but it gives me a reason to keep playing. On top of that, the sandbox mode is gloriously addictive. With so many rides to install and plenty of details to focus on, this will keep you busy for hours. 

Parkitect is a great example of the genre. 

Recently, the Two Point franchise has taken control. Yet, I think that Parkitect cuts a nice slice of the pie for itself. The action is retro without lacking originality. Additionally, it is great fun and super addictive. Accordingly, it is a great game and I recommend buying it here! Can you run the park of your dreams? Pick your ground, install some rides, and start spinning those plates.

Review: Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land

The Atelier series has long been celebrated for its charming narratives, deep alchemy mechanics, and colorful worlds, and Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land looks to continue this tradition while introducing a vast open-world and a fresh protagonist. Developed by Gust and published by Koei Tecmo, this entry shifts away from the cosy settings of past games, instead placing players in a ruined continent where alchemy is outlawed, setting the stage for a more mystery-driven adventure.

A Story and Characters Worth Exploring

One of the strongest aspects of Atelier Yumia is its story and characters. The narrative is genuinely engaging, offering an intriguing world full of mystery and discovery. Yumia and her companions are well-developed, and their interactions help drive the adventure forward. The themes of alchemy being outlawed and uncovering lost knowledge give the story a unique edge that stands out from previous entries.

Great Mechanics, But Too Many of Them

The game introduces several compelling mechanics, including alchemy synthesis, party tactics, skill trees, and base building. The alchemy system remains the heart of the experience, allowing players to experiment with crafting powerful weapons and items based on the materials they gather. The party system and combat skills add layers of strategy, and the base-building mechanic provides a fun distraction—at least at first. However, with so many gameplay systems in play, some features end up feeling underdeveloped or unnecessary.

Base building is a feature I typically enjoy in games, and I spend hours trying to create a comfortable and immersive home base. However, in Atelier Yumia, it feels out of place. The game sets up an adventurous tone with ruined structures and a makeshift camp, yet allows players to build mansions with street lamps and fountains. There are no options for realistic survival elements like tents or makeshift shelters, making the mechanic feel more like a cosmetic add-on rather than a natural extension of the game’s world-building.

A Beautiful Yet Disjointed World

The visuals are a mixed bag. On one hand, character models, UI design, crafting animations, and menus are absolutely fantastic. They are crisp, detailed, and polished to perfection. On the other hand, the open world feels hastily put together, as though it was assembled from pre-made assets. The environments lack the handcrafted charm of RPG’s, with copy-pasted terrain and randomly spawned gathering materials that sometimes make sense and sometimes don’t. The large map size doesn’t compensate for a lack of thoughtful design, and a more compact, carefully crafted world would have made this addition to the series near perfect.

Pointless Mechanics & Inconsistent Exploration

Some mechanics feel like they exist just for the sake of adding content. For example, lockpicking serves no real purpose—it’s simply a minigame where you spin circles until they fit, without any challenge or risk. Similarly, exploration mechanics feel redundant. While players can repair ladders and ziplines, they can also triple-jump and scale terrain, rendering many of these environmental additions and most puzzles pointless. In some cases, I bypassed entire puzzles simply by climbing the geometry in unintended ways. This inconsistency detracts from the intended level design and makes the world feel even more like a randomly generated MMO map than a carefully structured RPG setting.

What else gave me old MMO vibes is the lack of variety in enemies. Not only being somewhat un-inspired but also I spent so many hours looking at the same designs and if I got lucky a palette swap of something I fought a few hours back. That’s not describing ALL the enemies in the game, but there are certainly long stretches where they get quit stale.

Combat and Progression Issues

Combat is serviceable but suffers from balance issues. The game’s difficulty is too forgiving, partially because of how easy it is to overpower yourself early on. By simply exploring areas ahead of the intended level curve at no risk, I was able to gather powerful materials and craft incredibly strong weapons, making the first boss a breeze. Some form of progression lock or better scaling might have helped maintain a steadier challenge throughout the game.

Final Verdict: A Game With Potential, But Lacking Polish

Despite its shortcomings, Atelier Yumia still offers a fun and engaging experience, especially for fans of the series and alchemy mechanics. The story, UI, and animations are definite highlights, and the synthesis system remains a strong point. I will recommend this to anyone that wants to chill, gather, craft and switch off for a while. However, the poor world design, redundant mechanics, and unbalanced progression prevent it from reaching the heights of its predecessors. I would love to score it higher, but as it stands, it lands at a 6/10.

Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land is available March 21st on all consoles.

Review: TOZO PA1 Portable Wireless Speaker

Andrew Edney
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0
Review: TOZO PA1 Portable Wireless Speaker

Here is our review of the TOZO PA1 Portable Wireless Speaker.

Discover the TOZO PA1 Bluetooth Speaker, where powerful 20W stereo sound meets 25-hour playtime. Dive into music anywhere with IPX7 waterproof protection and stay connected with Bluetooth calling. Elevate your audio journey with the TOZO PA1.

Specifications

What’s in the box?

The box contains the speaker, quick guide, user manual, charging cable and carry strap.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The TOZO PA1 Portable Wireless Speaker is small and fairly light-weight and is easy to carry around in a bag or around your wrist using the wrist strap in the box.

When fully charged, the battery should last for around 25 hours, so that’s more than enough even for a day out somewhere.

Connecting up the PA1 to your device is easy using Bluetooth – you will be ready to listen in only a few moments. You can even use it for hands-free phone calls.

Sound wise, the PA1 pumps out music at 20W, and there is also a double EQ adjustment mode to choose from which works really well. 

You can also use the TOZO App to customise control settings, explore rich and practical functions and discover more music possibilities – definitely take a look at it as it can really personalise the experience for you.

It also has an IPX7 waterproof rating which means it’s great to use at the beach or by a pool.

The TOZO PA1 Portable Wireless Speaker is available now priced around £69.99.

You can learn more from the TOZO website.

Review: TRIBIT XSound Plus 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Andrew Edney
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0
Review: TRIBIT XSound Plus 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Here is our review of the TRIBIT XSound Plus 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker.

Specifications

  • Bluetooth Version: V5.3
  • Output Power: 2*15W
  • Bluetooth Protocol: A2DP, AVRCP, HFPHSP
  • Frequency Response Range: 50~20KHz
  • Frequency Band Range: 2402-2480MHz
  • Maximum Transmission Power: ≤6dBm
  • Battery: 2400mAh*2
  • Play Time: 24 hours(At 60% volume with XBass off)
  • Charging Time: About 4 hours
  • Waterproofing Grade: IPX7
  • Size: 198.5mm x66.5mm x 70mm
  • Weight: 1.76 lb

What’s in the box?

The box contains the speaker, instructions and a charging cable.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The TRIBIT XSound Plus 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is fairly hefty – not so much that you wouldn’t want to take it with you given its a portable speaker, but whilst it’s small, it’s quite heavy. 

Sound wise, the XSound Plus 2 pumps out music at 30W, and there are also 3 custom sound modes to choose from is works really well. 

Battery life is really good at around 24 hours – so more than enough for a day out (that’s assuming you don’t use XBass otherwise that time drops a bit). The XSound Plus 2 can be fully recharged in around 4 hours.

You can use the TRIBIT app to make various customisations to make it perfect for your listening experience. 

Connecting up the XSound Plus 2 to your device is easy using Bluetooth – you will be ready to listen in only a few moments. You can even use it for hands-free phone calls.

It also has an IPX7 waterproof rating which means it’s great to use at the beach or by a pool.

The TRIBIT XSound Plus 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is available now priced around £58 and is available in both black and blue.

You can learn more from the Tribit website here.

Review: STM BagPack

Andrew Edney
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Review: STM BagPack

Here is our review of the STM BagPack.

Features

Packs into front zipper pocket for compact stowage

Inflatable TPU bladder sleeve provides laptop protection, bag structure, and back cushioning

Highly rugged 210D nylon material resists wear for long product lifespan

Lightweight fabric for comfortable carry and quick compression

Comfortable contoured shoulder straps

Easy grab zipper pulls for quick access to pockets and compartments

Durable zippers stand up to repeated opening and closing

Fits up to 16” laptops

Specifications

  • main material(s): 100% nylon
  • outer dimensions: 18.9 x 12.4 x 6.3 in / 48 x 31.5 x 16 cm
  • outer dimensions packed: 9.5 x 6.0 x 4.0 in / 24.1 x 15.2 x 10.2 cm
  • weight: 1.1 lbs / 0.5 kg
  • capacity: 15 L / 915.4 in
  • device compatibility: fits up to 16″

BagPack is a backpack with a uniquely ingenious inflatable protective laptop airbag, that all stuffs neatly into its own front pocket for compact stowage.

Unlike anything you’ve seen before, the refreshingly innovative BagPack is designed for reliable, minimal, lightweight carry but also compact out-of-the-way storage. Perfect for the traveler or commuter looking to carry their gear securely without the bulk of a traditional backpack.

Made of ruggedly durable yet feather-light 210D nylon, the BagPack is designed to securely carry a full load of cargo while staying light on your shoulders.

The STM BagPack is available now in Black or Coffee and is priced around £51.41.

Review: Stealth 500 camo headset

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Stealth 500 camo headset

Finding an affordable but tech-packed headset is easier said than done. You normally have to compromise and this makes most gamers sad. Luckily, Turtle Beach has your back. The Stealth 500 camo headset for Xbox comes in at under £80. Moreover, it has plenty of game-improving tech for lovers of all genres. Additionally, you can connect it to your phone via Bluetooth, so you can game and listen to your favourite tunes on the move.

All the tech in the world is great, but if the headset is uncomfortable, then you are not going to use it. This beautifully weighted and wonderfully padded headset can be worn for hours. Furthermore, if you wear specs or gaming glasses, you will not feel that uncomfortable pinch. On top of this, the free-to-download Swarm app allows you to alter your settings in a simple and user-friendly manner.

What’s in the box of the Stealth 500 camo headset?

  • The simple packaging has striking imagery and a professional appearance. Moreover, despite a few pieces of plastic, most of it can be recycled.
  • The Stealth 500 camo headset is great to look at. The buttons, dials, and ports are well-positioned, and the floating headband support reduces pressure.
  • A USB-C to USB-C cable is provided to charge the headset.
  • A USB-A dongle is provided.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The Stealth 500 camo headset is described as the best-in-class for many of its key features. This is a bold claim, but I can see why Turtle Beach are shouting about their mid-price point product. The 40-hour battery life is mind-blowingly good! We all love a marathon gaming session, but I think most gamers will be very comfortable with a 1 1/2-day battery life. Additionally, the choice of Bluetooth 5.2 or a wireless dongle for connectivity was a great choice.

I used both and never struggled with latency or interference. Though I feel that the 2.4 GHz dongle was the better option, I never struggled whenever I connected this to my phone or Steam Deck. Whichever option you plump for, there is a QuickSwitch button for seamless switching. This was fantastic as no one likes to mess around with settings. Furthermore, if you are in a rush, you can simply grab your gear, leave the house, and get connected with ease.

Usability.

I’m lazy and I don’t like complicated are time-consuming products. Thankfully, the Stealth 500 camo headset is unbelievably easy to use. If you want a plug-and-play option, this budget-friendly device is great. However, you can download the Swarm II app and play with your sound settings. Alternatively, you can pick from any of the 4 Turtle Beach premade modes and focus on your gaming.

This user-friendly design will appeal to technophobes, lazy gamers, and parents who simply want their kids to have a great time. What’s more, the ability to play with settings taps into a higher group of gamers who desire some input into their audio experience. Consequently, Turtle Beach has got the balance just right.

Build quality.

The statement “budget-friendly” brings up images of poor quality or something a little inferior. Luckily, this isn’t the case with the Stealth 500 camo headset. The plush earcups use memory foam for a superior and comfortable experience. Additionally, I never struggled with overheating and the close fit prevented unwanted ambient sounds from disturbing me. 

The floating headband creates a snug fit without placing too much pressure on your skull. This is the ideal solution for epic gaming sessions. the band stretches and flexes to match your head. Subsequently, you should have a near-perfect fit. 

I love a flip-to-mute microphone. They are convenient and simple to use. This hides nicely in the headset body and can be moved with ease. The hinged movement is reassuringly strong and it will take some roughhousing as a consequence. The same can be said for the tough plastic shell. Though I wouldn’t suggest twisting and pulling it, it can take some knocks without breaking. Finally, the camo livery is great to look at if you can see it. The grey and white combination will appeal to many gamers and look perfect in any gaming arena.

Is the Stealth 500 camo headset worth it?

I’ve been a big fan of Turtle Beach for years. As such, it would take a lot for the products to disappoint me. Luckily, this new colourway tickled my fancy. Not only does it look great, but it is packed with incredible tech. Moreover, the Stealth 500 camo headset is comfortable to wear and at under £80, it is well-placed for many gamers’ budgets. Accordingly, I think they are great and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on Turtle Beach can be found here!)

The Stealth 500 camo headset has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Betting on Virtual Sports Is Emerging as the Next Frontier in Online Gaming

Andrew Edney
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Betting on Virtual Sports Is Emerging as the Next Frontier in Online Gaming

Betting is one of the most engaging ways you can stay entertained in this modern century. However, the wagering niche has evolved, accommodating more games.

Initially, we were restricted to the classics, including poker and slots. However, with time, online gaming has come to accommodate more unorthodox games like the fast-rising virtual betting. In this article, we will get to know why this niche is growing at such a rapid rate. We will also get to see exactly what this will mean for the future of online gaming. Let’s jump straight into it. 

What is Virtual Gambling 

See how you could bet that Manchester United is likely to clobber Liverpool in an FA Cup fixture? Well, virtual betting revolves around wagering on games completely tailored by computer algorithms. 

The outcomes of these titles are purely random, ensuring the game is fair for everyone. So yes, say goodbye to real-world athletes because you will be interacting with cutting-edge graphics and algorithms in virtual betting. So the real question is, why is virtual sports becoming more popular? Let’s see why.

Easy Learning Curve

In most casino titles, you’ll often hear terms like strategy and plan. Well, when playing virtual games, the only thing you need to be concerned with is managing your bankroll. Most of these games are very straightforward and demand really little of you. 

For instance, when you place a sports bet on a game like virtual horse racing, you don’t need to check the previous performance of the steed or rider. You don’t need to have been following on whether they have an injury or not since the entire thing is simulated. 

All that matters is how much appetite you have to take on. Depending on your bankroll size, you can customize it to ensure you play longer and have more fun while at it.

Wide Range of Games

Virtual gambling gives you numerous gaming choices to play. Apart from the conventional casino games, you can indulge in titles like horse racing and even virtual soccer. 

Having multiple choices to choose from largely eliminates boredom and gives you space to try out what you like. Most popular wagering sites like Betway will offer you these virtual games to add to your betting favorites.

Fair Play 

One great beauty about virtual games is that it is nearly impossible to tamper with the outcome. As technology advances, so has cybersecurity. Hacking these titles to manipulate the outcome is slowly becoming a thing of the past. 

This means that you can play without fear of game manipulation. Furthermore, if you want more ease of mind, it would be best to choose a site with good security like Betway. 

Conclusion 

Online gambling has evolved beyond its traditional form. From gambling on real game outcomes involving athletes, teams, and coaches, to betting on a computer-generated game where the outcome is purely random. Some of the reasons it is becoming more popular include incorporating several games and ensuring fair play.

Review: Afterlove EP

Daniel Waite
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Review: Afterlove EP

Grief can make us do weird and wonderful things. However, it is how we deal with our emotions and the aftermath of loss that defines our personality. Afterlove EP takes us on this dark and often uncomfortable journey. This visual novel experience isn’t the most pleasant I’ve encountered. The sense of self-loathing and twisted mindset made me grit my teeth. Yet, the snippets of light and wonderful relationships kept me digging through the dirt.

This visual novel was developed by Pikselnesia and published by Fellow Traveller. Moreover, it has some rhythm-based elements that break up the sense of melancholy. However, at its core, it has many traditional visual novel elements. Consequently, you will build relationships, encounter good and bad endings, and carve a path amongst the most trying of moments.

Afterlove EP tells a tale of loss and destruction.

You play the role of Rama, a young musician who is struggling to move on after his girlfriend Cinta passes. His band needs him, but the young hero is wallowing in self-pity and remorse. Furthermore, he is driven to distraction by the voice of Cinta and her judgemental ways.

The story is set in the vibrant city of Jakarta. This should have created a vivid and electric setting for a music-inspired game. Yet, the sombre nature of the plot drags you across hot coals. Additionally, the protagonist is a bit of a buzz kill as his moping ways and reliance on the words of his dead girlfriend create a sense of melancholy. 

Moving on never felt so good.

Where Afterlove EP excels is the realisation that moving on has never felt so good. Luckily, the hero has a great set of friends. Moreover, they are well-loved in the city and people are willing to forgive. Accordingly, new friendships and relationships open up throughout the relatively short story.

The exceptional characters and interesting dialogue help to bat away the sense of misery. Unfortunately, Rama and Cinta are divisive leads. I found Cinta’s continuous backbiting and jealousy to be a real downer. Yet, if you can overlook her sniping and jealous ways, you’ll enjoy the healing process and the friendships that blossom.

If you can put aside your disdain for the protagonists, you’ll enjoy a fulfilling story. The character development and the setting are particularly good. Furthermore, the rhythm-based moments break up proceedings nicely. What’s more, I adored the blend of characters and how each personality shapes Rama’s present and future.

Afterlove EP is a picture of pastels.

I’m a fan of Anime and Manga visual novels. Afterlove EP is a little understated with its setting and character portraits. Unlike its peers, it has a softer approach. This matches the sombre elements but isn’t as striking as other games in the genre. The portraits lack the OTT emotions. Instead, the writing creates each emotive layer. This was a shame as I enjoy the razmataz of other visual novels.

The audio is relatively repetitive but pleasant to listen to. The calm music matches the atmosphere and every character has some voiceover work. The exception is Cinta who haunts you at every turn with her cutting dialogue. This was overwhelming and uncomfortable to experience. Yet, it delivers a sense of oppression that matches Rama’s downtrodden mindset.

Simple controls.

If you want a simple game to play, then a visual novel has to be on your radar. You can fast-forward any unwanted dialogue and sit back and enjoy a drink as the story unfolds. Thankfully, when accuracy is key during the action moments, Afterlove EP doesn’t let you down. The well-labelled inputs are easy to follow and the controls are responsive and accurate.

Most visual novels have exceptional replay value and longevity. Together We Live is a VN I’ve recently covered and it was sadly lacking in both. However, Afterlove EP doesn’t disappoint. There are plenty of different endings and fans of the game will be able to return for more.

Afterlove EP is touching, uncomfortable, but oddly enjoyable.

Death, mourning, and loss rarely go hand-in-hand with entertainment. Yet, Afterlove EP has delivered that with its sombre but touching story. The blend of characters and the charming gameplay kept me interested throughout. Additionally, I loved the new friendships that formed and the interesting subplots. Though the protagonists weren’t my cup of tea, I liked how things unfolded. Accordingly, it is a good visual novel and I recommend buying it here! Losing someone doesn’t mean the end. Learn to grieve, lean on your friends, and evolve personally.

The Future of Family Finances: How Blockchain is Changing the Game

Andrew Edney
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The Future of Family Finances: How Blockchain is Changing the Game

The way that families manage their finances is changing. Many new technologies are constantly emerging that parents can use to track their spending safely, efficiently, and properly. 

Technology is making it easier for families to manage their money and have a healthy financial future, from mobile banking apps to digital audits and automated budgeting tools. 

Photo by Mikhail Nilov: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-couple-people-woman-6963016/

As technology continues to change, families need to understand how these pieces of technology can improve their household finances, use them to create financial security for the future, and educate their children about how they can use them, too. Let’s examine this in more detail below.

The Rise of Digital Banking

Gone are the days of visiting a bank in person to transfer money, deposit checks, or pay in cash. Digital banking has changed how families now handle their day-to-day finances. Mobile banking allows parents to check their bank accounts, transfer funds, and pay bills with just a few taps on their smartphones. 

Many banks also offer budgeting tools within their accounts, enabling families to track their spending habits and set financial and saving goals. Digital-only banks, or Neobanks, have also gained popularity. These banks operate entirely online and often have lower fees compared to traditional banks that you see on the high street. With features like instant transfers, high-interest savings, and no overdraft fees, they offer a convenient and low-cost way to view their banking experience. 

Additionally, these banks integrate much better with financial planning apps, meaning families can now view and analyze their finances in one place.

Automated Budgeting Tools

Budgeting is one of the biggest challenges families often face when it comes to finances; however, technology is making it much easier. Apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget) and PocketGuard have changed how personal finance is controlled by helping families get a clear picture of what they are spending and how they are spending it. 

These apps automatically categorize expenses, track transactions in real time, and generate reports that give families the insights they need to understand exactly where they spend their money.

Expense Tracking and Analysis

With Belton Analytics budgeting apps helping families to find the areas where they might be overspending frequently by visually breaking down expenses into categories such as entertainment, grocery, utilities, and parents, and are able to make better decisions about their finances and how they can make it better. 

These tools allow users to set monthly spending limits, receive alerts if they spend over what they shouldn’t be, and adjust their habits accordingly over time. Families should be able to take a smarter financial approach to make sure that their money is being used properly.

Automated Savings Plans

Many budgeting apps also allow their users to set up automatic saving plans, which is something that is highly recommended for families. There are even apps such as Plum that can track a family’s spending habits and automatically transfer small amounts into a savings account based on what they have spent and what disposable income they have.

This is something that is a “set and forget” approach as it removes the stress of manually having to save money, and it also ensures that families are consistently putting money aside for emergencies, vacations, or big purchases. Some apps take saving strategies further by offering the Roundup feature, where when you make an everyday purchase, they round it down to the nearest round number, and the spare change is transferred into a savings account. 

Other applications allow families to create different savings buckets for specific goals and split any savings between them. This might be for renovation, education, or holiday funds, but it makes it easier for you to prioritize which financial objectives and pots are going to get filled up first.

Budgeting for Kids and Teens

In addition to helping parents, many budgeting platforms now offer features that are for children and teenagers. It’s a way to teach them how to handle their digital allowances. These platforms teach them how to manage their money, track their spending, and even set up their own personal savings goals. 

By introducing budgeting early in families, they can help their children to develop strong financial habits that are going to benefit them even when they go into adulthood. When they see the parent budgeting, it also helps them learn how to do it. If you are saving for something like a holiday for the family, think about talking to the older children about how you are cutting back and saving for it. 

Digital Payment Systems and Contactless Transactions

With the rise of contactless payments and digital wallets, cash transactions are becoming much less common. Apps like Google Pay, Venmo, and Apple Pay are allowing families to make quick and secure transactions without having to swipe a physical card or use cash. This is extremely useful for parents who need to send money to their kids for school lunches, extracurricular activities, or for an allowance. 

Prepaid debit cards like GoHenry and Greenlight help teach them about financial responsibility. These cards allow parents to set up spending limits on the transactions they are making and even reward kids for completing chores or other activities. By introducing children to digital payments at an early age, families are able to help them develop responsible money habits in a world that is fast becoming cashless. Some cards even include financial literacy features such as educational quizzes and savings goals so that you can reinforce money management skills to your children and teach them how to save for the future.

Subscription Management Tools

There are many different subscription services, from streaming platforms to meal kits to online learning programs or even gym memberships. It’s very easy to lose track of all of these recurring charges, which can lead to overspending on unnecessary expenses. Subscription management apps like Trim and Truebill help families track their subscriptions and cancel services that they are no longer using. 

These apps can also help negotiate bills on behalf of the user, which could help lower costs for internet, cable, and insurance. By taking advantage of these types of tools, families should be able to avoid paying for services that they are no longer using and keep their monthly expenses under control.

Investing for the Future

Technology is also changing the way that families make investments. Robo-advisors like Wealthfront and Acorns use algorithms to create customized investment portfolios based on individual families’ financial goals and risk tolerance. These platforms make investing accessible to parents who might not have the time or the knowledge to create a portfolio on their own. 

For parents who want to invest in their children’s education, a 529 savings plan on apps like CollegeBacker can help families contribute to college funds with automatic savings and family gifting options. Some platforms even offer employer matching programs, which can help families to maximize their educational savings.

Blockchain and Financial Transparency

One of the most innovative financial technologies that has arisen is blockchain. While it is often linked with cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology is also being used to improve transparency, economic security, and efficiency for families. This could give them more control over their financial transactions and better confidence in the security of their money. Blockchain technology provides a decentralized ledger where transactions are recorded permanently and can never be altered. 

This level of transparency can be great for families who want to keep track of their expenses, manage shared accounts, and ensure their financial data is fully secure. Tools like a multichain block explorer allow users to view and verify transactions in real time. By using blockchain-based financial tools, families should be able to minimize the risk of fraud and keep track of their spending with complete accuracy. Blockchain technology is still in its development stages, but it has the potential to reshape how families handle their finances in the future.

The Future of Family Finances

As technology continues to change the way that families manage their money, staying informed about new financial tools and trends is important for families. Digital banking and automated budgeting are just a couple of the ways that are going to change household finances for the better. By embracing these advancements, families should be able to gain a better level of control over their financial future. They should be able to save more efficiently while also protecting their money from fraud, setting themselves up for a solid financial future.

Review: The End of the Sun

Saim Khurshid
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Review: The End of the Sun

Developed by The End of the Sun Team and produced by Jakub Machowski and The End of the Sun Team, The End of the Sun is a first-person, story-driven mystery adventure set in a Slavic fantasy world.

A few days ago, I asked myself, “It has been a while since I played any game that could be considered a walking simulator.” I wondered what one would feel like after such walking sim celibacy. Then I started playing The End of the Sun. Frustrated, enraged, annoyed…. These are some words that mean someone is not happy. Let’s talk!

Pointless Puzzles

I get that hearing the words, walking simulator, gives the impression of doing nothing but walking and looking at pretty surroundings for a few hours, but trust me, there is more to the formula. 

Whether that be horror, comedy or, as we will discuss here, Puzzles, if you don’t put in the proper amount of effort in this crumble, no one will want a bite. 

Contrary to the bottom-licking reviews on the Steam page, The End of the Sun does not have any good puzzles. 

Majority of The End of the Sun consists of watching cutscenes. They end in some tragedy or error due to a missing object. The “puzzle” is simply going out to find this missing object and placing it in the required location. The first few times, it does not hurt, but after the 5th or 6th time, it just gets lazy and annoying.

If you want to make a movie, just make a movie; no need to attach a half-assed game to it. 

Speaking of which:

A Cliché. Plot

The story being told is not exactly Shakespeare; it’s more cliché.-spear….

Uhm… while trying not to spoil, I can say that the game in itself is filled to the brim with cliches and scenes that feel plucked from other media. 

Imagine a story about a devoted cult gathering at an Island for some secret ritual, and you might already know 90% of this game’s plot. 

A woman gets impregnated with some otherworldly being. CHECK! 

A godly figure is angry and is causing bad things to happen. CHECK!

A thing I won’t say cause it will spoil the plot, CHECK!

However, I will say that the Final 10%, felt original. It managed to entertain me a little.

You play from a first-person perspective on a seemingly desolate island, scattered with eerie remnants of a cult’s presence. With the ability to see into the past, Return of the Obra Dinn style, you piece together the mystery of the Island. The concept, though riddled with flaws, does manage to give The End of the Sun a unique charm and atmosphere. The moments when the past reveals itself through ghostly visions provide a glimmer of intrigue, offering just enough to pull you in. 

Sadly, the shortcomings of the rest pull you back out.

The End of my Rope

You will spend all your time trekking through a large open world, fetching meaningless objects just to shove them into yet another predetermined spot. Gets old faster than you can say “cliché.” 

The few moments where the game shows any spark of originality are buried under a predictable story and lacklustre execution.

It’s a walking simulator with no soul, a puzzle game with no challenge. 

If you want to spend hours wandering an empty island trying to piece together a story that honestly should have been a movie or a short film, then sure, The End of the Sun might scratch that itch. But for me, this is a hard pass. 

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