Review: Amber Isle

Khloe Turner
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0
Review: Amber Isle
Amber Isle title screen

Cozy games experienced a continuous boom in popularity ever since the unforgettable year of 2020. With work-from-home schedules and canceled get-togethers for a variety of reasons, sometimes it is just nice to hunker down on the sofa and whimsically divulge into a fantastical world full of home economics.

Hopping on this cozy train is a passenger that radiates a nostalgic 2000s or early internet gaming vibe, visibly comparing to those cartoony, polygon graphics akin to early Spyro and the like. Animal Crossing meets a much more tame Tycoon-esq approach, Ambertail Games’ Amber Isle is a slow-paced, dino-centric cozy simulator all about exploration, crafting, meeting new friends, and managing your very own local shop.

Amber Isle was released in June 2024 and can be played on the PC, Steam, and Nintendo Switch.

Welcome . . . to Amber Isle

The game introduces itself with surface-level bits of lore about a dinosaur coming-of-age tale. This universe is full of “Paleofolk” and you, the player, have hit a certain age where you must set off into the world to embark on a “paleoventure” where one discovers themself through connections and experiences. You will learn your “Saurname,” or a title that “reflects your place in the world” once the paleoventure is fulfilled.

earn saurname after paleoventure

The player character begins their journey on a hot air balloon. Unfortunately, you lean too far over the basket and plummet through the roof of an isolated shop. Somehow this gaping hole in this totally empty, customer-less, and supposedly “newly-renovated” store is worth tens of thousands of ambers in damages. The player is approached by a trigger-haired Mayor Clawsworth and the more down-to-earth courier Maple Swiftwing. A Megalosaurus named Adi – who works for OrbCorps, a task force meant to revitalize the desolate Amber Isle – joins the group as well. These three individuals are pretty much the only residents on the isle, sadly enough.

So, your little player dinosaur gets comfy and moves in (though not by choice) to Amber Isle. You are tasked with running the shop and paying off its debts, as well as aiding OrbCorps with inviting new residents to move into town. Thus begins the player’s paleoventure of crafting and maintenance.

Wherever you are . . . make it comfy

Honestly, the best feature of Amber Isle is its splendidly detailed and charming character customization. Players have loads of different colors, designs, body shape presets (e.g., raport, mammal, theropod, and small or large herbivore), and clothes to choose from. You can also name your own Paleofolk and identify as a lass, a lad, or an apparent gender-neutral “kid.” This will be how the NPCs refer to you.

Amber Isle character customization

It is almost crucial nowadays to include some form of character customization! I definitely feel myself returning to my 2000s childhood, booting up the family desktop and customizing my beloved Animal Jam or Toontown character.

All the Paleofolk NPCs look very unique and cute as well. They range from amphibians to sea creatures to birds to invertebrates. Ultimately, you will be able to customize the isle itself by befriending others and recruiting them to open up new cafes, gardens, and community areas. Players can also utilize store profits to develop pathways, foliage, in-store decor and new walls and flooring.

Maple, Adi, Mayor Clawsworth, and the player

It seems like a world-builder’s dream . . . and while Amber Isle appears to offer it all, it would be a blessing if you could actually play that far into the game to unlock these personalization abilities. Oof! More on that several paragraphs below.

Profit makes perfect

Aside from customization options, the main mechanic of the game is to manage your shop and make the big bucks. Or, well, the big ambers.

Players will gather raw materials, craft items, and sell them. You are able to set the price of your goods which will lead to haggling with customers. You pitch the price, a customer counteroffers, and you either agree with the new price tag or push even harder. The more you sell, the greater the shop ranking increases, and the more inspiration you receive.

Amber Isle haggling with customers

While managing the store, players must make sure it looks clean and presentable. Paleofolk will track dirt and mud all over the place. Run from the counter to the store floor to mop up the debris so that customers don’t get repulsed. I mean seriously – RUN! A not-so-cozy feature, more akin to an unbridled low-waged reality, these Paleofolk are quite disgusting. Holy cow. It is so annoying bolting between counter to floor as the line accumulates with quick-tempered shoppers who also do not like to wait around. No respect towards the sole person working I guess! The cleaning mechanic is also just not very fun or satisfying. It is only a tedious and forced challenge that gets in the way of things.

Friendship is inspiration

Nellie, a dino Paleofolk

Aside from general store duties, players can engage in side quests. Paleofolk will request certain shop items for you to craft for them based on their individual wants and behaviors. Or, they might ask something of you like delivering 30 stones directly to their house. The more you interact with and talk to certain characters, the more your friendship with them will increase. As a friendship develops, players will unlock new recipes and the potential to invite the character to move to Amber Isle and open up new infrastructure. The more buildings and decor you have, the overall isle rating will go up (much like Animal Crossing). Having successful friendships and profit margins at your shop will also boost the player’s inspiration. Inspiration can be used to upgrade the store itself, as well as improve tools and new recipes.

Another day, another dollar

The map of Amber Isle is quite decently sized and full of vibrant colors and varied landscapes to explore. Travel all around to places like Shell Creek, Kem Kem Canyon, and Mount Morrisong to recruit new residents, harvest resources, and upgrade tools. There will always be a useful mini-map in the bottom right corner so that you do not get lost; undiscovered areas will be obscured by clouds until you reach these locations.

Amber Isle map

The game operates on a low-key day cycle: it is not like Animal Crossing where it correlates to reality, nor is it like the Sims where time flies in the blink of an eye. There are four phases: the morning, afternoon, evening, and night. By engaging in activities, like running the shop or setting off to harvest rocks and wood, time will pass. Simply standing idle will not allow time to progress! Certain Paleofolk will only be available for certain hours of the day as well. You may be able to obtain a night permit to keep the store open for later hours, so the time mechanic is not really stressful at all. There is always the following day.

Beautified beasts

Amber Isle‘s art style is adorably nostalgic for those who grew up in the late 90s or 2000s period. I believe that a major reason people were quick to purchase this game is because of its cutesy charm. Also, who doesn’t love dinosaurs?

world exploring and recruiting Paleofolk

The characters are all colorful and unique in appearance. They mumble like Animal Crossing critters but with a bit more gruff. There are 48 kinds of Paleofolk in total, with their own personal characteristics and quests, suitable for the biome you find them in (e.g., a shark at the beach area). However, when it comes down to interacting with the NPCs . . . it feels pretty mechanical and boring. There are options to give them gifts and simply talk to them, but the game never truly encourages you to do this. While each Paleofolk has labels of their “unique” traits, that’s about it. Just labels. They all speak similarly, and nobody aside from the main few, have much life behind them to incite genuine care and relatability to and from the player.

The customer is always right

On the other end, the soundtrack is engaging and whimsical; calm at other moments, making for a natural, cozy sensation of day transforming into night.

Amber Isle UI goals and rewards

The UI can be a bit overwhelming. The organizational trees are nice, and as you are crafting you can see the specific categories/traits new recipes hail from (e.g., artisan, stylist, chef, et cetera). But, it gets complicated once you actually begin a shift at the store. You cannot craft anything during store hours, and worse, players are not able to re-check what the traits and sizes of the items they are selling are. So, if an NPC comes up and vaguely requests an item they might want, it is hard to suggest the right thing if you do not have the memory of an elephant. Also, don’t get me started on the grid-based mechanic . . .

“It’s funny cozy doesn’t always mean ‘comfortable,’ hm?”

The building system is grid-based in that, to my knowledge, you cannot turn off. For one, it is hard to see what in the world you are doing. It feels clunky, especially with the top-down approach which obstructs vision even more. In the few instances where the the grid is not top-down and you are moving around architecture, the camera has a severe issue with clipping; the hills and landscapes will just totally annihilate your field of vision.

Amber Isle‘s camera is egregious. Oh my.

Grid-based building system Amber Isle

The camera centers on the player at all times and can really only move horizontally and a little bit vertically. Players can zoom in and out, but cannot tilt it around. Again, the decorating portions are top-down, so all this camera rigidity breaks the immersion, especially with the overly frequent issues of clipping and violent, abrupt zooming in and out occurs. This is quite the letdown for a modern game, and something that can hardly be excused anymore unless you are intentional mimicking the N64 camera capabilities.

For a lot of players, myself included, Amber Isle even after eight months since its release has a plethora of bug issues (at least on the Nintendo Switch). Bugs range from minor visual glitching and lag to more intense issues like soft-locking and total game crashing. My game crashed during the opening lore sequence. I also experienced moments where my camera or buttons would become totally unresponsive. Others have reported issues like their map being permanently obscured, or objects straight up disappearing or moving to the incorrect location. While the developers are continuing to update and fix these problems, I mean, Amber Isle could have truly benefitted from another year in the oven.

Final thoughts

Amber Isle has so much potential but is tainted by a plethora of grievances, not just the crazy UI (aside from the map and crafting tree) and boring dialogue, but also a lack of story and character depth, grindy nature of extrapolating resources, paying off debts, and the horrific grid and camera mechanics. These problems, plus the potentially game-breaking bugs are a deal breaker for many people. Not to mention, the tutorial is needlessly long and sluggish. When I play a cozy sim, I do not want to waste 2-3 hours on a tutorial alone. Absolutely not.

The end of the game is sort of strange as well. The undercurrent of community-building versus enterprising aside, and this is not necessarily a spoiler – the introduction to Amber Isle states that getting your “Saurname” is a signifier for a successful paleoventure. This game ends when the player receives their “Saurname.” While the ending does wrap up the basic story elements, hm, I don’t know . . . it would be nice if there was a postgame maybe? Or just more to do? It feels weird that a game like this just comes to an end after a repetitive 10 or so hours.

Otherwise, Amber Isle is cute and has a lot to it, but the game seems to have been released too early. Character customization, the art style and music, and the overall premise are wonderful, but the bad glitches, shoe-horned stressors, and clunky mechanics get in the way of things. Hopefully the developers continue to make improvements. If you are someone who enjoys this genre of video games and has played something along the lines of Animal Crossing or Bear and Breakfast, then maybe try it out. Be weary of the price point, though.

Review: Overwatch Reaper glasses

Daniel Waite
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Review: Overwatch Reaper glasses

The Overwatch Reaper glasses from GUNNAR are divisive but badass to the eye. The chunky style won’t be for everyone, but if you want a statement piece that keeps your eyes safe, these are the glasses for you. They have a striking style, and the patented GUNNAR technology reduces fatigue, dry lenses, and headaches.

The medical benefits are great but it is the lack of fatigue that impresses me most. Whenever you wear a pair of gaming glasses you remain focused for longer. This is great if you work or game for extended periods. Additionally, I adore the hardwearing material and the comfortable style. Accordingly, if you want a pair of glasses to wear during work and play, I suggest you look no further.

What’s in the box of the Overwatch Reaper glasses?

  • The packaging is discreet and robust. Furthermore, it can be recycled.
  • The Overwatch Reaper glasses use a chunky military-style frame. Alongside this, there are some nice Overwatch Easter Eggs for fans of the franchise.
  • Clean the lenses with the branded microfibre cloth.
  • The soft case keeps the glasses protected.

Technical aspects.

The Overwatch Reaper glasses can be purchased as sunglasses or amber-tinted lenses. Moreover, you can buy prescription lenses of -5 to +5 if needed. This versatility was great as you can get the glasses that match your needs and style. I opted for the 65% blue light-blocking amber-tinted lens and didn’t regret my decision. The slightly yellow colouring reduces harsh contrasting colours for a pleasant work and gaming experience.

On top of this, you enjoy 100% UV light protection. Subsequently, if you wear these glasses when out and about, you know your eyes are protected. The patented GUNNAR lens technology keeps your eyes moist to reduce that horrible itchy feeling. What’s more, eye strain is reduced because of the lack of harsh blue light. I’ve worn GUNNAR glasses for years and I’ve noticed a vast difference in my eye health. Consequently, many gamers will benefit if they stare at a monitor, mobile phone, or TV for extended periods.

Build quality.

Though the frames won’t be for everyone, you cannot question the exceptional build quality. The chunky material has a deep and rich black livery. This is juxtaposed with a vibrant Reaper logo. The eye-catching design will be a winner if you are a fan of the franchise. Moreover, if you like your glasses with larger arms, then the Overwatch Reaper glasses will tick that box.

I’m somewhat heavy-handed with my glasses, so I appreciate strong hinges. Luckily, the multi-barrel hinges will take some rough and tumble. This is ideal if you chuck your gear around or you are a little clumsy. Finally, the lenses have the G-Shield lens coating. This anti-reflective and smudge-resistant layer is great as it helps to keep your glasses and visibility smudge-free.

Are the Overwatch Reaper glasses worth it?

Gaming glasses are a growing market. Professional gamers rock them and feel the benefits daily. However, everyday players are still catching up with the trend. I won’t work or play without a pair and I suggest that you do the same. The Overwatch Reaper glasses are unusual, bold, and wonderfully built. Accordingly, if you wish to stand out from the crowd, I recommend buying them here!

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Overwatch Reaper glasses have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Eyes of War

Saim Khurshid
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0
Review: Eyes of War

Developed and produced by Good Mood Games, Eyes of War is a real-time strategy game set in the medieval era, offering both single-player and multiplayer experiences where you can control every unit in character mode.

The RTS Genre are almost as old as computers themselves. Safe to say that every idea you can think of has been done. Imagine my surprise, when I started playing Eyes of War and mid-battle, it went from a top-down point-and-click to a dodge-rolling hack and slash extravaganza. Oddly, Eyes of War captures war in a rare, realistic way. 

Every Soldier’s a Pawn

On the front, Eyes of War is a simpler Age of Empires. The basic gameplay is the same: you take control of an army, manage scavenging, defences and lead to a fight. However, everything takes a huge turn when the battles truly begin.

In Eyes of War, you can take control of any one of your soldiers. The transition is seamless, and you can switch to other soldiers by simply pressing ‘E’ in their direction.

If you remember, Ultimate Battle Simulator had a very similar mechanic that allowed you to take control of your soldiers. It was a fun gimmick that Eyes of War has pushed to its full capabilities.

Types of Play in Eyes of War

Of course, the ability mechanic does not only play on the war side of things. There are a few modes you can play in Eyes of Wa,r and each mode is amazing in itn way. 

  • Strategy Mode

In war mode, you and your opponent start with a castle, a few guards, a horse and some money. This is the default Age of Empires-esque game mode and plays exactly as you would expect.

You gather resources and build barracks, stables, mines, etc. Ultimately, you get an army, and you go to war.

  • Battle Mode

In Battle mode, you don’t have to build or mine any resources. As the name implies, you start with an army of 200+ men, you get to pick what types of soldiers you get. 

Next, you create a formation, give instructions, and ideally take over a soldier to lead the charge.

I find this mode to be thrilling. It captured the feeling of ancient warfare quite nicely.

  • Arena Mode

Finally, you have the Arena.

No armies, no buildings, no large-scale strategies. Just Fighting!

In this mode, you select 5 soldiers. 2 teams of two and 1 single soldier. The game is a best of 5. The first 2 games are 2v2 and (if needed) a final 1v1 fight.

Not the best mode of Eyes of War, but it’s a very fun one.

Multiplayer Problems

Now that the glazing is out of the way, I think it is time to consider the shortcomings of Eyes of War. 

For one, there is no story mode, nor single player mode, nothing of the sort. You can play rounds with Bots but not having a proper story mode is big miss for me.

Another issue, I pondered over sharing, was the lack of match making or public servers. I feel this may be an early game issue and we will have some sort of way to play Randoms in the future but for now, Eyes of War only has Lan Play.

Eyes of Bloody War!

All in all, Eyes of War brings a fun spin to the RTS genre with its seamless blend of strategy and action. The ability to jump into the shoes of any soldier mid-battle is something you don’t see every day, and it spices up the experience. 

Sure, the lack of a story mode and matchmaking can be a bit of a bummer, but if you’re into the tactical side of things and love getting your hands dirty in the heat of battle, there’s still a lot to enjoy here. It’s got its quirks, but Eyes of War deserves a spot on your radar.

Review: Beyond the Ice Palace 2

Daniel Waite
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Review: Beyond the Ice Palace 2

Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a gothic masterpiece that filled me with nostalgia. Additionally, I loved its Metroidvania edge and the brutality of the demi bosses and the cruel guardians. I didn’t play the original, but that matters not. I could follow the plot without a problem and no previous knowledge is required.

This side-scrolling pixelated adventure was developed by PixelHeart and published by PQube Ltd. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a grim and dark aesthetic. If you don’t like pixelated games, this won’t be for you. However, if you love a trip down memory lane, you’ll want to jump in with both feet.

Beyond the Ice Palace 2 tells a story of revenge and redemption.

The King isn’t alive or dead! Instead, he sits in limbo imprisoned in a basement and tied by chains. However, his captors underestimate his strength and determination. The chains that once bound him are now his weapon of choice. This fallen leader must crush everything that stands in his way as he reclaims his throne from those who betrayed him.

The gritty story is dark, sinister, and cruel. Moreover, the dialogue is fantastic, and uncovering the foul lore was a fascinating experience. As you explore each area, you will encounter monsters, ghosts, wizards, beasts, and bosses. Each one wishes to put you into the ground, but you cannot allow this to happen. If you fall, you will respawn, but your cash will be taken and you must restart at the last checkpoint.

Straightforward mechanics.

Though the core concept is brutal and it is borderline unfair, the mechanics are straightforward. The hero is a shadow of his former self. Yet, once he gathers power crystals, he can regain his strength, vitality, rage, and much more. Additionally, he will unlock new skills as he takes down each of the guardians that stand in his way.

This is easier said than done as the demi bosses and guardians are brutes to overcome. Accordingly, I swore much more than I should have and I admit I nearly slammed my controller in rage. Thankfully, I remained reasonably composed as I studied each boss’s movement pattern and identified their weaknesses. Though this is key to success, there is an awful lot of luck required and this may drive you insane.

Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is wonderfully gritty.

Pixelated games may not be for everyone. However, I adored the grim colour palette and the wonderful stage design. There are many amazing locations to explore and loads of secrets to discover. This was phenomenal as you were forced to search every nook and cranny for hidden crates and treasure chests.

The audio blew me away. The oppressive soundtrack was a joy to listen to. Every overpowered tune matched the daunting action that unfolded. Furthermore, the slash of your chains and the explosion of fire sounded incredible. Consequently, the developer has created a dated but aesthetically pleasing game.

Great controls.

The controls are somewhat complicated. You can slide, dodge, fight, climb, jump, and more. Moreover, you learn new skills that increase your arsenal of tricks further. This makes mastering Beyond the Ice Palace 2 a bit of a tricky endeavour. Yet, once you get used to the finer points, you’ll leap between rings and dodge attacks like a pro.

The drip-fed skills and hidden treasure chests ensure that longevity and replay value are a central concept. What’s more, the Metroidvania edge demands that you explore each location once new abilities are unlocked. This was great as it made the time-consuming task a rewarding experience.

Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a fantastic old-school title.

I was blown away by Beyond the Ice Palace 2. The gameplay is tough but enjoyable. Furthermore, the lore is fascinating and the grim aesthetic makes your skin crawl. Though the bosses are occasionally tough, you will enjoy euphoria when they fall at your feet. Accordingly, this is a fantastic old-school game and I recommend buying it here! Can you rise from the dead and reclaim your throne? Master your skills, unlock new abilities, and thwart those who rebelled against you.

News: Mother’s Day 2025

Daniel Waite
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News: Mother’s Day 2025

New year, new me is all but done and dusted. Accordingly, it is time to look at the big events coming up in 2025. The first major one I can think of is Mother’s Day 2025. Now, we know it can be stressful to find that perfect gift. As such, I hope to take that edge off with this gift guide.

Flowers, a card, and chocolates are all well and good. However, why not go the extra mile and get something truly special this year? Whether it is a stylish case, a gadget, or some tools for the house, this article will highlight them all. Therefore, sit back, relax, and let me show you some amazing products.

Cosori
VQ
BOOX
Flikeze
OpenRock
HOZO

The Mother’s Day 2025 guide. 

Cosori. 

COSORI TwinFry Dual Blaze 10L – The COSORI TwinFry Dual Blaze 10L Air Fryer boasts a generous 10-litre capacity, making it the perfect addition to any kitchen, especially for those who enjoy hosting or cooking for large families. 

The appliance’s dual-chamber design, featuring a removable separator, allows for simultaneous cooking of main courses and side dishes, ensuring a nutritionally balanced meal every time. Whether it’s crispy chicken paired with roasted vegetables or perfectly air-fried fish accompanied by golden fries, this air fryer delivers versatility and convenience in every use.

Mother’s Day 2025 introductory price £199 from Currys.

VQ. 

Laura Ashley China Rose 3.5L Slow Cooker – Make cooking a stress-free experience with the VQ Laura Ashley stainless steel slow cooker. It has a generous 3.5-litre capacity, perfect for making family stews, soups, and casseroles.

Use the 3-heat settings, including a keep warm function, and you will always have a delicious dinner ready when needed. The tempered glass lid traps the moisture and flavour of your dish, also allowing you to watch the cooking process.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £59.99 from Amazon. 

Cath Kidston designed VQ Skylark Earbuds – The Skylark boasts possibly the loudest sound for TWS earbuds in the market. Deep, rich bass, defined mid-range, and crystal-clear high-end. Whether streaming tunes, enjoying a gripping podcast, or being immersed in the latest audiobook, Skylark’s Hi-Fi stereo sound quality ensures the users hear, feel, and experience the music like never before.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £59.99 from Amazon. 

VQ Cath Kidston Tablet case – A designer Cath Kidston Universal Tablet Case by VQ really is the perfect way to ensure your 7/8 or 9/10 inch tablet stays protected, but also looks stylish and feels personal to you.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £14.99 from Amazon.

BOOX. 

Palma 2 – The Palma 2 has advanced hardware and software and is equipped with dual microphones and speakers, it doubles as a portable audio player for music and podcasts. Its 16MP camera with LED flash serves as a document scanner for on-the-go office needs.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £299.99 from BOOX.

More gifts are on the way. 

Flikeze.

PhotonMask – The PhontonMask is designed with a contoured fit for full facial coverage, Unlike traditional LED lighting, it combines four powerful therapy modes with multiple wavelengths technology into each mode to enhance treatment effectiveness.

After years of testing, Flikeze found that multi-wavelength technology delivers superior results for specific skin concerns. That’s why they’ve combined four powerful therapy modes with multiple wavelengths into each mode to enhance treatment effectiveness.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £338.99 from Flikeze.

SpectraPanel Elite – The SpectraPanel Elite features four modes powered by patented FSE7 Pro Chips, with seven effective wavelengths, and adjustable intensity from 20% to 100%. designed to achieve optimal results. Tailored for everything from pain relief to skin treatments and energy boosting, the SpectraPanel Elite offers a versatile approach to overall wellness.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £390 from Flikeze.

OpenRock. 

OpenRock S – The OpenRock S embraces innovation at its core by harnessing the power of advanced open-air conduction technology. This not only results in a natural and safer auditory encounter but also allows users to stay attuned to their surroundings while indulging in their preferred audio content.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £79.99 from Amazon. 

HOZO. 

Neoruler Smart Ruler – Accurate measurements are crucial in the world of design, where even the smallest details can make a significant impact. NeoRuler boasts a host of features that make it an indispensable tool for architects, engineers, graphic designers, and hobbyists.

Mother’s Day 2025 price £105 from HOZO Design. 

M-Cube – M-Cube is the ultimate modular multi-function laser measure distance meter with an innovative magnetic locking design that makes switching modules and accessories effortless. Versatile and adaptable for surveying, construction, design, DIY Projects and home renovation.

Available for various prices from HOZO Design. 

Plenty of great gifts this year. 

This guide is but the tip of the iceberg. There are plenty of great companies offering amazing products as well. Kokoon, SwitchBot, Dangbei, UREVO, and Enabot are pushing some incredible tech and health and beauty items that will appease the toughest recipients. Accordingly, you can avoid those awkward gifting moments, and shine this Mother’s Day 2025.

Five easy ways to protect your personal data

Andrew Edney
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0
Five easy ways to protect your personal data

Keeping your personal information safe and secure is more important than ever. With the threat of hackers and other malicious actors always there, it’s easy to feel anxious and overwhelmed. 

The answer? Taking simple, proactive steps can drastically reduce your risk and give you greater peace of mind. Below are practical ways you can protect your data every day.

Use stronger and unique passwords

We’ve all been tempted to use the same password for multiple accounts for sheer convenience. But this is something that gives hackers an easier route to break into your accounts. By using strong and unique passwords for different platforms, you make it much harder for anyone to crack the code and access your personal information. 

A good password should be long (at least 12 characters) and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. It shouldn’t include words or phrases intrinsically linked to you, like your middle name, or something easily found out, like your pet’s name.

Enable two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is basically an extra layer of security for your accounts. By requiring a second form of verification, you add to the security already provided by a password. 

For example, after you enter your password, you might receive a text message with a code to enter. This makes it significantly harder for someone to access your account, even if they manage to guess or find out your password.

Most popular online services, including email and social media platforms, offer 2FA. Setting it up is quick and easy, and it’s one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your accounts.

Learn how to spot phishing attempts

Phishing attacks are one of the most common tactics scammers use to steal your data. They typically involve fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that trick you into giving up your login details or other sensitive data. 

To avoid falling for them, always double-check the sender’s email address or the profile contacting you. Look for the key signs of a scan, such as unusual links, spelling mistakes, or urgent requests for personal information.

If you’re ever unsure about an email or message, don’t click any links or open any attachments. Instead, go directly to the company’s website by typing the URL into your browser or call them to verify the communication.

Protect your privacy with a VPN

Unsecured Wi-Fi networks leave your data vulnerable to attack. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, making it much harder for hackers or anyone else to access your browsing activity. This is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi in cafes or airports, where your data is more easily intercepted.

You can install a VPN on your devices, router, or browser. For example, installing a VPN for Chrome safeguards your online activity by masking your IP address and location. This makes it harder for advertisers and other onlookers to track you and your data online.

Think twice about what you share online

The more personal information you share online, the more opportunities you give people to misuse it. It’s ultimately your decision, but be mindful of the sort of information you share on public platforms.

Avoid sharing details like your home address, phone number, travel plans, or anything else that can be used to steal your identity or break into your home.

Review: SanDisk Fortnite Portable SSD Peely Edition – 1 TB version

Andrew Edney
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0
Review: SanDisk Fortnite Portable SSD Peely Edition – 1 TB version

Here is our review of the SanDisk Fortnite Portable SSD Peely Edition – 1 TB version.

Features

  • Keep your mind on the match, not on lag or low storage, with high SSD capacities and read speeds up to 800MB/s.
  • Flaunt your Fortnite infatuation with a drive wrapped in a custom-designed Peely skin.
  • Break stuff with a stylish pickaxe, redeemable in-game and included with purchase of this drive.

Specifications

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The SanDisk Fortnite Portable SSD Peely Edition – 1 TB version drive is small and lightweight and can easily fit into your pocket.

The box contains the drive but also a code for a bonus virtual item within the game. There is also a USB-C to USB-A cable in the box. It was a little disappointing that SanDisk didn’t include a USB-C to USB-C cable given the most devices these days have USB-C.

If you are a fan of Fortnight then you will probably want to get this one!

The SanDisk Fortnite Portable SSD Peely Edition – 1 TB version is available now priced around £78.99. There is also a 2TB version as well.

You can learn more from the SanDisk website.

Review: SanDisk Fortnite USB Flash Drive -Peely Edition – 64GB Version

Andrew Edney
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0
Review: SanDisk Fortnite USB Flash Drive -Peely Edition – 64GB Version

Here is our review of the SanDisk Fortnite USB Flash Drive – Peely Edition – 64GB version.

Chase that crown with the new, limited-edition SanDisk Fortnite USB Flash Drive. This Fortnite-themed drive includes an exclusive wrap with purchase to celebrate your victories. Expand your gaming storage with up to 256GB so you can save your favourite gameplay photos and videos. And with read speeds up to 130MB/s, you can quickly transfer large game files or take your favorite game captures on the go. Plus, a special Peely design means your favourite banana can tag along on all your adventures.

Features

  • Impress fellow players and celebrate your Victory Royales with a redeemable wrap only available with purchase.
  • Flaunt your Fortnite fandom with the limited-edition Peely design.
  • Transfer your best game captures fast with read speeds up to 130MB/s to deliver consistently high performance.

Specifications

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The SanDisk Fortnite USB Flash Drive Peely Edition – 64GB drive is small and lightweight and can easily fit into your pocket.

The box contains the drive but also a code for a bonus virtual item within the game.

If you are a fan of Fortnight then you will probably want to get this one!

The SanDisk Fortnite USB Flash Drive Peely Edition – 64GB drive is available now priced around £8.99. There is also a 128GB and a 256GB version as well.

You can learn more from the SanDisk website.

Review: Micro Sprite Classic LED: Neochrome Scooter from Micro Scooters

Andrew Edney
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Review: Micro Sprite Classic LED: Neochrome Scooter from Micro Scooters

Here is our review of the Micro Sprite Classic LED: Neochrome Scooter from Micro Scooters.

Their classic two-wheel scooter – reinvented in bold neochrome style. The Sprite Neochrome is the first of its kind. Blending the lightweight agility of their best-selling kids’ two-wheeler with the colour pop neochrome finish of their iconic stunt scooters. 

Complete with light-up front and back wheels. Our smart LED tech uses induction energy to turn the power kids create as they scoot into bright white light. No batteries. No fuss. Just a glow to light up the darkest evenings and brighten up the most ordinary days. 

Steers like a bike, and rides like a dream. With adjustable handlebars for years of scooting fun. Lightweight aluminium frame for the ultimate agility. Perfectly sized footplate that’s neither too big nor too small. Simple, secure fold and handy kickstand for on-the-go convenience. They think there is no better first taste of life on two wheels. 

Featuring foam grips that are soft to the touch and incredibly long-lasting. Their smart foam does not age due to exposure to the elements – meaning they can keep going as long as you can. A large, long brake has been specifically designed with a rough surface to provide extra grip for the foot when pressing down. 

Built to last. Built to outlast. Every Micro Sprite undergoes a gauntlet of tests including sub-zero temperature testing, static load, dynamic drop, and impact tests to ensure every part of the Sprite is not only safe but resilient to everything a child can throw at it. A scooter that will last and last. A scooter that is safe. 

Lightweight. Adjustable. Foldable. With some added neochrome magic. For an everyday ride that reaches new heights.

The scooter is fairly lightweight so once folded up (which is a really useful feature) it’s easy to carry around, even for a young person, and it’s really easy to pop it in the back of your car.

The scooter looks very cool and certainly gets attention! The rainbow finish really looks good. The build quality is exceptional and the scooter feels very solid and safe! My 8 year old son loved the light up wheels and said they look really cool!

The handling of the scooter was really good – it’s very easy to steer and very easy to ride it. It’s also a really good scooter to move up to if your child has a three wheeled scooter.

I really liked that this scooter had a kickstand built-in – this meant it didn’t have to left laying on the ground when it wasn’t being using, and it really supported the scooter.

Overall, the look and feel of the Micro Sprite Classic LED: Neochrome Scooter makes it a winner.

The Micro Sprite Classic LED: Neochrome Scooter is available now priced around £139.95.

You can learn more from the Micros Scooters website here.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Interview

Andrew Edney
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Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Interview

Here is a short interview with Jim Carrey regarding his return to Sonic the Hedgehog.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is available to Buy on Digital February 24th, to rent from March 10th 2025 and to own on 4K UHD™ SteelBook®, 4K UHD, Blu-ray™ and DVD from April 14th 2025.

Review: MACROSS-Shooting Insight

Matt Cooper
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Review: MACROSS-Shooting Insight

Another game from the long running space opera franchise MACROSS is here, with the release of Shooting Insight. Is it a worthy addition to the storied Japanese franchise? Or should it have stayed in outer space?

Space Opera Team-Up

MACROSS is a long-storied franchise in gaming that unfortunately, I knew nothing about. Scarcely released in the west, the franchise is beloved in its homeland of Japan – and for good reason. The franchise has had rich stories backed with superb arcade style shooting mechanics and looks to capture the West’s imagination with Shooting Insight. Whilst it did capture my imagination to a certain extent, there were bumps along the road. For someone like myself, the story is a daunting task to understand, as the developers are clearly hoping you have played previous instalments in the franchise. To try and explain it to someone like myself would be that all the timelines across the MACROSS franchise are banding together to try to stop the destruction of the world from an evil force.

From what I had heard the franchise was known for, I had hoped for a compelling story with a colourful cast of characters making an emotional rollercoaster of a tale. Sadly, I was mistaken. The whole plot of the game feels like a lazy excuse to bring all these different characters from different timelines together. The story is so basic and formulaic I would not condemn people if they were to skip the cutscenes that occur before each mission. The dialogue from the characters is also basic and has no real emotion to it and so, I rarely felt the fate of the universe rested in the team’s hands although the game kept telling me it did. It is a profoundly disappointing story and one that I truly cannot recommend for anyone looking for an emotional, impactful tale. However, thankfully, the gameplay department manages to help soften the blow to a certain extent.

Arcade Shooting Shenanigans

Shooting Insight bills itself as an arcade shooter and for the most part, it delivers. Choosing between five different pilots for missions, you fly and shoot your way through a volley of enemies. What surprised me straight away was the variety on display in each level with their varying gameplay styles. I loaded up the first mission and saw it as a simple side-scrolling shooter, only to be pleasantly surprised when the camera suddenly shifted and moved to a top-down vertical perspective. Then, when I felt comfortable with that perspective, the game would change again, this time having me move like you would in a twin stick shooter. Then again, it morphed into a front-scrolling shooter like something out of Star Fox! It is absolutely fantastic and constantly kept me on my toes throughout each level. Shooting a jammer hidden in the level results in a songstress belting out a song as you shoot and weave your way through chaos, which is whacky, yet charming! I would describe Shooting Insight as a true chameleon of a game and that is a superb way of keeping the player invested and never bored because you don’t know what might happen next.

Unfortunately, the gameplay is not without its flaws. Each of the five pilots has unique abilities and weapons assigned to their individual ship but in reality, they all feel pretty similar. Each pilot’s abilities essentially boil down to a gun with a certain number of shots it can do along side a homing missile or a volley of missiles. I messed around with each pilot and felt nothing really affected my gameplay experience dramatically. Whilst this is not a major issue, Shooting Insight has other flaws in gameplay. For example, the amount of on screen threats at one time for a player is ridiculous. There is far too much going on for you to truly concentrate and avoid getting hit by the absolute barrage of missiles and bullets that are fired at you. This, coupled with attempting to dodge the levels backgrounds, only to realise it was not on the same layer as my ship, led to many frustrated outbursts. If you’re looking for an arcade shooter that isn’t your standard shooter this is absolutely worth your time but be warned, its flaws will frustrate and baffle you.

Graphical Chaos Yet Musical Brilliance

In its presentation, MACROSS Shooting Insight once again falls into the mixed bag category . Visually, the game looks superb in its character models and art style, yet is muddled in its in-game visuals. Some backgrounds and levels look positively beautiful across vast space backgrounds. Then, other levels look ripped straight from a mobile game with blocky backgrounds, bizarrely lifeless and colourless environments and poor draw distance. It is clear developers Kaminari Games focused on key levels and left some behind by the way side. As previously mentioned, the sheer amount of content on the screen at one time can create a real eye sore. As there is no English voice acting dialogue, subtitles appear on screen, furthering the already chaotic display. Perhaps in a future game, English voice acting could help clear some of the erratic display.

Conversely, sound is top notch in Shooting Insight, bar one small issue. The ships whoosh and roar on the opening of levels, whilst explosions sound mightily impactful. Missiles and bullets sound fantastic; I just wish they were slightly louder to warn the player of incoming threats. This is particularly troublesome because when the superb soundtrack is blasting, you can struggle to hear them. Speaking of the soundtrack, this wholeheartedly brilliant track will have you smiling from ear to ear. It is unequivocally Japanese and I mean that in the best sense as the songstress belts out her music when you destroy a signal jammer. It really helps make the game feel that much more cinematic. A brilliant effort across the board in sound design!

Verdict

MACROSS Shooting Insight is a game I wanted to love but too many things just got in the way. A story left by the wayside, chaotic visuals and gameplay decisions lead to frustrating moments. Luckily, it’s not all bad, due to superb sound design and visuals that hold up for the most part. This, coupled with a truly unique ever changing gameplay style, means there is enough for some veterans of the franchise to love. A truly mixed bag. See you around the galaxy!

Review: Kamikaze Lassplanes

Daniel Waite
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Review: Kamikaze Lassplanes

Kamikaze Lassplanes is a bit of an odd hybrid Ecchi experience. However, I think that the combination of visual novel gameplay and Shmup action is a winner! Though it may go down badly with purists, I loved the pace of the plot and the twists and turns. Moreover, the graphics are crisp and the audio is loud and in-your-face. Accordingly, it keeps you hooked from the opening gambit.

This visual novel shmup was developed by Inky Dreams and published by Crunching Koalas. It is a single-player title that takes around 6 to 10 hours to complete. Furthermore, there is an arcade mode if you love to test your shoot-’em-up skills. Though the sexy nature of the Lassplane crew may not be to your taste, this can be overlooked as you focus on the story and the engrossing side-scrolling action.

Kamikaze Lassplanes tells a strange story.

Kamikaze Lassplanes is set in a fantasy land known as Velestia. This safe haven is home to the Sky Fortress and is protected by “The Veil”. This shield protects its citizens from danger. However, like all great plans, things go awry. This is where Walter, Alba, and Hannah come to the fore. Walter is a badass pilot, and the lasses are Lassplanes. The killer combo team make it their mission to prove their worth and save the day.

The plot has a wonderful sense of sci-fi and fantasy. However, some nice emotional aspects make it relatable. Though the core idea is pretty outlandish, I liked how it ebbed and flowed. The playful nature of Walter and Alba was fascinating to witness. Yet, when Hannah is thrown into the mix, the relationships are tested and the trio must work out who is boss and their place in the equation.

Shmup madness.

The plot, writing, emotion, and setting were all amazing. Furthermore, the number of branching elements keeps you focused without ruining the pace of the story. Additionally, I never felt overwhelmed by the decisions that I faced. This was fantastic as it allowed me to relax and enjoy the action that unfolded.

This peace was quickly broken up whenever I had to jump into the cockpit of the Lassplane. The Shmup gameplay has a brilliant old-school mindset with a modern polish. The combination works exceptionally well. With goals to achieve, power-ups to collect, and seamlessly never-ending waves of enemies, you will adore the madness on offer.

Kamikaze Lassplanes looks amazing.

I love Anime/Manga-inspired games. This Western visual novel does not disappoint with its Ecchi touch. The slightly naughty moments will catch your eye and there are moments where you could be seduced by the shape-shifting protagonists. Sexy plane ladies to one side, the backdrops are fascinating and the simple but effective animation works exceptionally well. Finally, the Shmup moments are buttery smooth even when the screen is filled with projectiles.

The audio blends upbeat tunes with some incredibly sombre and melancholy moments. These juxtaposing layers work well while supporting the intense dialogue. Moreover, the sound effects were loud and shrill and perfectly Manga in their design.

Great controls.

Visual novels are usually a relaxed affair. However, the inclusion of fast-paced gaming was a nice break from the norm. Thankfully, the control system is intuitive and there is a thorough tutorial to get you through the basics. Subsequently, you’ll understand and master the fundamentals in no time.

I love a VN with branching dialogue. I’ve recently covered Together We Live and the kinetic approach left me wanting. Kamikaze Lassplanes is different as there are multiple endings and the aforementioned arcade mode to enjoy. As such, there is plenty of replay value and longevity.

Kamikaze Lassplanes is a fantastic indie title.

I didn’t think this hybrid game would work. It seemed like a bit of a punt that would annoy lovers of each genre. Thankfully, each core element works and the game flows perfectly as a result. Visually it will appeal for multiple reasons. Furthermore, the plot is outlandish but great to follow. Therefore, I loved it and I recommend buying it here! Can you master the Lassplanes and save the day? Build your relationship, hone your skills, and become a war hero.

News: Revolution X Unlimited Controller

Daniel Waite
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News: Revolution X Unlimited Controller

NACON has released some incredible gaming peripherals. Consequently, when they announced one called the Revolution X Unlimited Controller, I couldn’t ignore it. I’ve covered the Revolution 5 Pro controller and the Revolution X controller and loved them both. As such, I have high hopes for this latest edition. Shall I stop talking and just lay out the features?

Features of the Revolution X Unlimited Controller.

  • Compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Windows devices and Android-based devices.
  • 3 connection types: radio frequency, wired and/or Bluetooth.
  • Rechargeable battery offering a minimum of ten hours’ autonomy.
  • Hall Effect technology in joysticks and triggers.
  • Integrated LCD screen for easy and intuitive programming and audio source mixing.
  • Trigger blockers, D-pad and action buttons equipped with Omron® micro-switches.
  • 6 programmable shortcut buttons.
  • Ergonomic customization: six additional weights, six joystick heads, two joystick rings and two directional crosses included.
  • PC and Shooter Pro Mode with exclusive features.

More details.

A concentration of technologies to enhance performance. Equipped with instant-response triggers and joysticks featuring Hall Effect technology, the RXU guarantees exceptional precision and durability. Omron® micro-switches on most buttons enhance players’ responsiveness for optimum gaming performance.

A customized gaming experience for optimized gameplay.

NACON innovates again, by integrating an LCD screen into its controller for the first time. Thanks to the available presets, the screen provides quick, intuitive access to game information and configuration of audio and gameplay parameters.

A dedicated app lets you create your own gameplay profiles, for an individualized experience, or choose from those already predefined for ‘Plug & Play’ use.

Unique modes to boost gamers’ skills.

The RXU boosts your skills with many new modes exclusive to the controller:

  • PC Mode, available only on this platform, offers latency reduced to 1 millisecond in wired mode, plus the ability to put keyboard shortcuts on all the controller’s shortcut buttons or activate the gyroscope function.
  • Shooter Pro Mode allows you to completely eliminate the joystick deadzone, for greater reactivity, precision and performance in shooting games.

Exciting times for NACON.

The Revolution X Unlimited Controller is packed with tech and I can’t wait to see one in the flesh. If you are equally excited, you can pre-order yours by clicking this link!

Review: Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat

Daniel Waite
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Review: Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat

Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat is a simple game. Accordingly, this review isn’t going to be as meaty as normal. Instead, I’m going to focus on the cute graphics, the basic mechanics, and the relaxing approach. This idle game will not appeal to a large audience, but I liked how the slow action evolved.

Destroyer Doggo developed and published this indie game. It is a single-player experience that uses an isometric viewpoint. There is no plot, no depth, and no real goals to talk about. However, I enjoyed it nonetheless. It is strangely addictive and I kept it running in the background as I completed other tasks. This allowed my pandas to get to work and earn me some much-needed cash.

Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat tells no story.

1 panda, 1 laundromat, and a heck of a lot of cloudy mess to clear. This is the set-up for Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat. There is no story to analyse and no characters to interact with. Consequently, you are left to your own devices as the game unfolds.

The panda walks around her business without a care in the world. Dirty laundry piles up and she moves it from a washing machine to a dryer. Once the washing is clean, she takes it to the counter and you are paid. This is Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat in a nutshell. No subplots, no complex gameplay, just you, your panda, and loads of dirty underwear.

Simple mechanics.

As the game unfolds, you unlock new machines. These washing machines and dryers cost more money, but they earn you more money as well. As such, you must invest to make your time more efficient. Alongside this, you can hire new pandas to help with the workload.

As the panda crew get to work, you can decorate the laundromat and hire cats to do nothing. It was very strange and unnecessary, but I didn’t care. I was hooked and I wanted to hire more pandas and buy the most expensive machines I could.

Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat is relaxing.

The soft colour palette and lack of violence make Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat a relaxing experience. Though the pixelated graphics won’t blow you away and it can be difficult to identify the washer from the dryer, it is pleasant enough to look at.

The audio adds to the atmosphere. The upbeat music creates an enjoyable vibe that rarely becomes tiresome. Yet, I turned it down when I ran it in the background as I didn’t like the music that much.

Simple controls.

Idle games are basic by design. Consequently, the control system is simple to master. A couple of clicks of the mouse button is all you need to know in this refined indie experience.

The replay value is questionable. I can’t say that an idle game will keep you coming back indefinitely. I found Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat to be addictive, but longevity is not at the fore and I’ll probably return now and then to check in on my panda team.

Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat is pleasant but basic.

If you want a relaxing game that is easy to play, then this should be on your radar. It won’t blow you away, but the lack of violence and slow gameplay were a pleasant change from other games. Accordingly, I like it and I recommend buying it here! Can you expand your cleaning business? Hire some pandas, buy new machines, and do little else.

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