But if you’re new to the world of trading, there’s lots to consider before you start putting in your hard-earned money and opening a position. As the market dynamics continue to evolve, particularly with geopolitical influences and economic forecasts affecting currency values, you need to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the complexities of this particular asset class.
In this guide, we’ll cover some of the basics of forex trading, to help you build the foundational understanding you need. We’ll also offer some handy tips to help you get started. Read on to find out more.
What is forex trading?
Forex (short for foreign exchange) trading involves the buying and selling of currencies against each other as exchange rate pairs on the global market. Traders profit from the fluctuations in exchange rates between different currencies. The forex market is notable for its high liquidity and continuous operation, except on weekends and holidays.
Where does forex trading take place?
Forex trading occurs in a decentralised market through over-the-counter transactions. The market operates on a 24-hour basis through four major trading sessions in Sydney, Tokyo, London and New York. Each session’s timing aligns with the business hours of different regions, making forex a continuously active market across time zones.
The importance of choosing the right platform
Your platform should be regulated by reputable bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring compliance with financial standards and security. The likes of MetaTrader 4 and 5 are popular for their reliability and range of features, while other providers like Tradu offer their own bespoke platforms that enable you to easily switch between forex and other markets.
Using a demo account to build up your experience
Before diving into live trading, it can be a good idea to start with a demo account. This allows you to practice with virtual money, learn how the market works and test different trading strategies without financial risk. Most leading platforms offer free demo accounts as part of their educational resources.
Diversifying your portfolio
Diversification is key to managing risk. By spreading investments across various currency pairs, commodities or other asset classes, you can reduce the risk of significant losses from any single trade. This strategy is essential for managing the inherent volatility of the forex market.
Forex trading offers a substantial opportunity for financial gain, but it requires a well-thought-out approach to risk management and a continuous commitment to learning and adapting to market changes. With the right tools, knowledge and strategies, you can turn your dreams of becoming a successful forex trader into a reality.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset from SteelSeries is the GOAT! I know it goes against every review rule to summarise your feelings immediately, but it is spectacular! This audio giant is specifically the Xbox version. However, thanks to its dual connectivity, I can connect it to a multitude of other platforms via a USB and wireless control panel. This versatility was exceptional, and I couldn’t believe how user-friendly every aspect was.
I’ve recently covered the Arctis Nova 5X headset, and this device was impressive. However, it cannot compete with its older, bigger, and more attractive sibling. Yet, this doesn’t surprise me as there is a vast gulf in RRP and this may put off would-be gamers. But if you want an elite device that delivers across the board, then you need look no further!
What’s in the box of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset?
The packaging oozes sophistication. The eye-catching imagery and complex features will make you salivate. Moreover, it is fully recyclable.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset comes in 2 colours. I’m looking at the crisp white version. Alternatively, you may purchase a discreet black headset. This product has some customisable elements as the soft headband and booster plates can be swapped. I was provided with a cherry red set that I couldn’t resist. Finally, the tactile buttons and retractable microphone are easy to handle.
The Wireless base station is compact and impressive.
2x USB system connections complete the arrangement.
2 lithium batteries deliver unlimited power.
3.5mm to 3.5mm 4 pole to 5 pole audio cable.
A microphone pop filter cleans up your hard letters.
2 removable magnetic booster plates for added colour.
A cloth bag to store the device.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset is as fancy as fancy can be! I’ve tested some exceptional products over the years and this sits at the peak of Everest. Accordingly, no other headset comes close to competing with this awe-inspiring beast. Every feature is designed to improve your gaming setup. Moreover, the incredible PC software delivers custom profiles and the base unit is used to alter in-game volume, chat, and EQ settings. Additionally, you may seamlessly flit from one platform to another without breaking a sweat.
On top of this, it is the first truly unlimited battery-powered headset. Thanks to the dual battery configuration, you never run out of juice. The fast charge facility ensures that each battery is charged in the base unit as you game. Alternatively, if you are commuting, you can charge the headset using the discreet USB-C port. Either way, this device will never leave you short.
If this wasn’t enough, the audio is beyond impressive. Thanks to the ANC, you can cut out unwanted sounds. However, if you wish, you may select a hear-through mode to be aware of your surroundings. Furthermore, the AI noise-cancelling was mind-blowing. The clarity of the microphone and the awesome in-game communication were spectacular. SteelSeries has delivered a gaming behemoth that sits at the elite table.
Connectivity.
The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset is impressively versatile. Thanks to the wireless capabilities and the Bluetooth functionality, this headset connects to many suitable platforms. Accordingly, the Xbox version has a dedicated port for Xbox features. However, the secondary option allows you to seamlessly connect to your PlayStation, PC, Switch, Steam Deck, and much, much more.
On top of this, you can enjoy your mobile audio over the top of your gaming soundscape. This feature lets you mix your audio without jeopardising your gaming experience. Consequently, you may chat with friends, update your Discord followers, or listen to your favourite playlist as you compete to top every leaderboard.
The base station is a powerful unit that makes this headset pop. The built-in profiles allow you to maximise your potential and gaming time. Simply select a preset profile and get to work. Alternatively, you can adjust your EQ settings to get things just right or alter your ChatMix to make the balance perfect. This feature allows you to silence that annoying loud kid or enhance your quiet friend.
SONAR.
The free-to-download PC SONAR software is great to use. This user-friendly feature allows you to tweak your settings and play with some of the advanced elements. Subsequently, you can enhance minute sounds to give you a head start. Whether it is louder footsteps or the click of a reloading rifle, you’ll hear every detail. This awesome element changes your awareness and improves your reactions.
Sound quality.
A premium device needs mind-blowing audio. Luckily, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset delivers that and plenty more. Thanks to the AI noise cancellation and the 4-mic hybrid system, you will reduce unnecessary distractions from your gaming soundscape. What’s more, the 360° Spatial Audio delivers immersive sound like never before! This incredibly captivating surround sound experience takes you to the next level. Accordingly, when this is combined with the “x-ray hearing”, you stand out from the crowd.
The Neodymium 40mm magnetic drivers provide a frequency range of up to 40KHz. This impressive range helps to create a balanced set of lows, mids, and crisp high tones. Additionally, the meaty bass line is strong but not overbearing. No matter how hard I pushed these headphones, they never cracked or failed. Moreover, there wasn’t any distortion and I could pick out each audio layer without a problem.
This is complemented by the retractable bidirectional noise-cancelling microphone. This impressively robust mic utilises ClearCast Gen 2 to deliver amazing communication. Through testing, my teammates never complained about popping sounds or echoed chat. Moreover, the AI tech reduced unnecessary background noises to remove unwelcome distractions.
Build quality.
Every piece of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset feels amazing. The base station is compact and easy to handle. Its battery port is discreet and the screen is vivid and straightforward to read. What’s more, the USB ports are robust and well-positioned. Each cable is hard-wearing and flexible. Furthermore, they are long enough for most gaming arrangements. Consequently, you shouldn’t have any problems setting up a clean and clutter-free workspace.
The headset is large, lightweight and great to hold. The solid headband has a level of flexibility and the soft support reduces pressure on your skull. Additionally, the soft padded earcups are snug. However, they allow room for glasses and they never overheat. As such, they are perfect for lengthy gaming sessions. I adored the customisable elements. The soft headband and magnetic booster pads can be swapped for limited edition alternatives. This was fantastic as you can alter the look without investing in a whole new model.
Is the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset worth it?
Investing in a premium product can be eye-watering. Yet, the hefty outlay is often outweighed by the awesome experience. As such, this device doesn’t disappoint. Every element is at the top of its class and I was amazed by the sheer level of quality on display. The audio is phenomenal and the build quality is out of this world. Additionally, it is user-friendly, and the unlimited battery life was a game-changer. Finally, the dual connectivity and versatility make this a leading product that is tough to beat. Accordingly, if you want a mind-blowing device that destroys its peers, then buy it here!
(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! SteelSeries provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)
The 3087 v2 keyboard from AKKO is the perfect gaming peripheral for a beginner’s workspace. This mechanical device has a wonderful clunky sound and a compact TKL form factor. With 87 keys and programmable macros, this offers enough functionality for the smallest gaming spaces.
Alongside this, the keyboard is available in 3 colours: white, pink, and black. I was sent the latter and I appreciated the discreet and professional finish. Furthermore, you have a choice of Cherry MX red or brown switches. I plumped for the brown option as I liked the tactile nature and the smooth travel distance. The red alternative is linear with a lower operating force. As such, if you want a marginal improvement in response time, I suggest the red switch version.
What’s in the box of the 3087 v2 keyboard?
The packaging is compact and robust. Furthermore, it can be recycled.
The 3087 v2 keyboard is sturdy and lightweight. Weighing under 1kg, this wired unit is comfortable to move around.
A 1.6m detachable USB-C to USB-A cable.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
Unlike its peers, the 3087 v2 keyboard is impressively understated. A lack of RGB complements the simple design. Moreover, the MX switches are smooth and responsive. Accordingly, this is ideal for gaming and writing. The loud mechanical clicks may distract you, but I liked the old-school noises and the excellent travel distance. Moreover, the OEM profile has a pleasant rounded edge that is simple to navigate.
This basic keyboard cannot hot-swap switches. Consequently, if you like customising your peripherals, this won’t be the item for you. Yet, if you want a plug-and-play option that is reliable and responsive, then this will tick those boxes. Additionally, if you want more functionality, this device has recordable macros. Therefore, you may improve your gaming and typing experience at the touch of a button.
The lack of wireless connectivity may be disappointing. However, the price point reflects the rudimentary connectivity. A detachable USB-C cable creates a stable and low-latency arrangement that is perfect for many workstations. Furthermore, the compact form factor is ideal for tiny desktops. Finally, the N-key rollover ensures that every input is accurate. This was essential for typing and gaming. No one wants lagging inputs or missed letters.
Build quality.
The 3087 v2 keyboard has a robust plastic tray mount. The strong shell is understated but pleasant to the eye. What’s more, the colour is rich and vivid and is sure to last the test of time. The USB-C port is positioned in the middle of the top edge. This intelligent placement reduces unsightly cables whilst enhancing stability. Furthermore, the port is hard-wearing, and the cable feels secure.
The base can be adjusted to 3 unique heights. The pair of feet have 2 settings, or you can lay the device straight onto your worktop. The adjustable angle is comfortable and ideal if you wish to mix things up during longer work or gaming sessions.
Keycaps are renowned for losing their lettering. This unfortunate side effect of heavy use is frustrating. Thankfully though, the 3087 v2 keyboard uses PBT Double-Shot keycaps to improve durability. The result? The legends don’t fade, and the keyboard retains its streamlined and clean finish.
Is the 3087 v2 keyboard worth it?
Though the 3087 v2 keyboard isn’t as advanced as some of AKKO’s other products, I liked its simplicity. The excellent build quality and impressive switches are a massive selling point. What’s more, the durable keycaps and understated style are perfect for an office set-up. Finally, the macro feature is great to use if you play MMO games. Accordingly, I like this device and I recommend buying it here!
The festival and camping season is upon us. Music, fun, friendship, and sunshine can all be enjoyed as you dance and laugh the days away. However, modern living and living in a tent don’t always mix. Consequently, planning and some special technology are required if you wish to have a great time.
This Festival and Camping Season Guide aims to highlight some great items for your next trip or event. Accordingly, you can enjoy the high energy and great vibes that this summer season has to offer. Whether it is a speaker, solar panels, or a power bank, this guide highlights them all.
What do I recommend in this Festival and Camping Season Guide?
Trust.
Trust Azura Party Speaker.
The Trust Azura compact Bluetooth party speaker is ideal for bringing the party with you! Weighing less than 4kg and with a built-in handle, it is super portable and can be used anytime, anywhere. With 100W peak power (50W RMS), it brings the atmosphere to the next level with impressive bass, treble and more. Also boasting a large battery life of up to 11 hours, it can easily entertain for a whole evening and then be recharged again.
Not only does it have a great sound, but the Azura features multicolour LED lights that synchronise to the beat of the music to look impressive and add to the experience. Double the fun with the Azura’s two microphone inputs and TWS function, which allows you to pair two party speakers for more volume, more stereo sound and more fun!
Enjoy free and sustainable power with Trust’s Zuny. Harnessing the sun’s rays, this solar panel allows you to easily charge your phone, tablet or power bank wherever you are. With a consistent power output of 15W even when partly cloudy, this 40W panel allows you to charge away to your heart’s content! Perfect for camping, out with family & friends, or just relaxing in the garden, the Zuny has your back
With both USB-C and USB-A connections, this solar panel gives you the ability to charge two devices at once or recharge your power station via the DC output port. Maximise the Zuny’s power output via its handy built-in stand, which allows you to aim the panel at the perfect angle to best catch the sun’s energy.
Using magnetic charging, the Magno quickly and easily charges iPhone 12 models (or higher) or MagSafe-compatible phone cases. With a 5,000 mAh capacity, this power bank offers up to 17 extra hours of smartphone use, so you have even more time to get things done.
Made with 50% recycled plastics, the Magno has been sustainably designed for charging with added peace of mind. Easy to take on the go, this power bank has a thin and lightweight design that easily fits into any pocket or bag, and nicely under your phone.
Both your power bank and phone running low? No problem – the Magno’s pass-through charging allows you to charge both at the same time – so convenient!
More items for the Festival and Camping Season Guide.
Sitpack.
Sitpack Campster 2.
The Sitpack Campster 2 emerges as the ultimate portable chair, ready to redefine comfort and convenience for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Weighing in at a mere 3.3 lbs and boasting a 5-second setup time, it is crafted with a sturdy aluminium frame, the chair supports up to 300 lbs and features an embracing seat design with a comfortable 12″ seating height.
The chair’s one-piece design folds down to the size of a 1.5-litre bottle and includes a shoulder strap carrying case and an S-carabiner, making it effortlessly portable, unfolding with ease, thanks to its unique grab-n-pull system and quad-supported legs, providing stability on various terrains. With a redesigned frame for enhanced stability, it remains solid on grass, sand, or gravel. The chair’s versatility extends to its compatibility with a range of accessories, from micro-fibre towels to seat warmers and bottle holders, allowing users to customise their experience. Temperature regulation is a priority, with a large mesh area on the backrest and thighs for warmer environments.
BLUETTI’s AC70 portable power station represents a huge leap forward from the predecessor EB70 in charging capabilities, UPS reliability, and app control features. The BLUETTI AC70 is a versatile power solution for both outdoor activities and emergency backup. It can power essentials and even 2.000W resistive loads like kettles in Power Lifting mode. With two AC outlets, two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and a 12V car outlet, it provides a flexible power hub for multiple devices.
The unit recharges quickly: from empty to 80% charge in just 45 minutes and 100% in 1.5 hours. When paired with solar panels, it tops up in 2 hours to ensure seamless power in the great outdoors. The AC70’s 20ms UPS function and expandability with additional batteries(B80/B230/B300) make it suitable for power outage backup.
If you love this time of year, you’ll want the best gear available. Accordingly, don’t miss out on these incredible items. Whether it is a comfortable chair or the ability to charge your phone. Either way, these companies have you covered.
The awaited sequel to the indie game Cyber Manhunt is here. Cyber Manhunt 2: New World is a point-and-click game focusing on hacking. You play as an AI who is tasked by a tech corporation boss, Ashley Clayton, for the mega company Titan. She will ask you to deduce information from various people involved in the company to settle inner-company investigations. The game works by assigning someone for you to research and find information on to gain a further understanding of a conflict at hand. The game is primarily set on a computer screen where you have access to various apps such as emails, a messaging platform, a search engine, a password cracker, a data farmer and so on. You’ll be tasked with finding enough information that you can get to the bottom of an investigation.
Also a disclaimer, most screenshots are taken from the first chapter to avoid spoilers. Photos may give away a plot detail so if you want to experience the first chapter of this game fresh, you have been warned.
Narrative
New World’s story is immaculately delivered. What begins as a button-clicking marathon of typing in various details evolves into an intense story where every character mentioned feels important. The storytelling is fantastic it goes in so many different directions with its twists but none of them come across as something that doesn’t check out. When there has been a terrorist attack on Titan Head Quarters, it’s down to you to help uncover what’s led to this. Your opinions on a character will fluctuate objective by objective. It is a fantastically devised plot which keeps you guessing who is truly at fault. What makes this whodunnit storytelling more thrilling is the realistic nature of the conspiracies and crimes at hand in the corporate industry. All of the wrongdoings are from people driven by a lust for money or power, safety or revenge. Much like a Knives Out film you learn along the journey of finding out who a culprit is, you don’t have much of a like for any of these characters. It is quick to see the social commentary at play here. Cyber Manhunt 2: New World looks at the invasiveness of technology, the dangers of greed and lobbying in the corporate and tech industries and how perfectly honest men can become terrorists. The story is by far the most compelling aspect of this game.
Gameplay
The point-and-click nature of this game is handled very creatively. There are an array of different methods to find the information you’re looking for, going through the messaging platform, ‘hitalk’ and hacking into accounts was one I enjoyed the most as they function as a spawn of gossip. The gameplay does feel quite slow and dull to begin with, but once you become more familiar with the interface you can get through these sequences much quicker. New World feels quite repetitive at times going back and forth between the same applications and surfing through them for new information. However, the brilliance in storytelling does take this dullness away as the game goes on. Finding out a crucial bit of detail in an email can keep you on the edge of your seat as you frantically search to put these pieces together. And while the process can be quite dull, it does succeed in making your work feel very satisfying. Putting the evidence together you have farmed and coming up with a theory to solve the case from it was really cool. Normally after solving a case, you get these cool drawings and animation which will develop the story.
Most information is found by scouring various texts and compiling fact files about the characters. However, occasionally you’ll need to make an intuitive deduction about something. These moments are really rewarding and I wish we could’ve seen more. Particularly when dialogue is an option and you have to say the right thing to get the information you want from someone. To someone with experience in hacking or coding, this game might feel quite simplistic but to the average gamer, it comes across as fairly well put together and satisfying. One critique I would have for this game though is I did experience fairly frequent crashes, in particular when entering the investigative phase where you are called to make a decision on your evidence – the screen would often freeze. However, the game has a useful and regular autosave, so it doesn’t ever set you back much, aside from the time taken to restart the game.
Verdict
If you love a good whodunnit and a bit of research and puzzles in between, Cyber Manhunt 2 is an excellent game worth picking up. I have not played the first game so I can’t judge how it fairs as a sequel but I would say that I didn’t need any prior knowledge to be completely immersed into the plot of this game. This a really well-put-together game on the whole, it’s very clear a lot of thought went in writing this story and it’s a concept that could be reused again and again in different scenarios or environments– something I’m hoping the developers at Aluba Studio are planning to do.
Cyberpulse allowed me to codify an unspoken rule of mine. I’m calling it the ‘Second Or Death’ rule. It goes thusly: if a score-based game has three levels of success and the game is good, I will not be able to settle for anything less than level two. Cyberpulse can breathe easy on that one. As soon as I see my score falling below level two, I’m mashing that restart button as fast as I can. Yeah, yeah, sparkly effects, robot lady voice, just bring on the points!
I put that down to a couple of things. First, Cyberpulse keeps things absolutely simple. There’s a simple gameplay loop, a bunch of enemies to use it on and a whole stack of levels that explore it, inside and out. Secondly, it keeps up the pace brilliantly. Restarting is lightning quick. Mash the B button and you’re back in. Frustration is alleviated by efficiency. While I have some minor nits to pick in the fine details, these don’t disguise the fact that Cyberpulse is, simply, a big explosion of fun.
Information Super-Highway
The first thing you’ll notice about Cyberpulse is the visual design. It makes you want to put on some nineties-era sunglasses. But I want to put that aside for the moment to talk about the core gameplay. Cyberpulse takes the concept of a twin-stick shooter and then messes around with it. The left stick is for movement but the right is for a kind of gravity well mechanic. Point it in a direction and an enemy will fly off that way once colliding with it. With any luck, they’ll hit a deadly firewall. The challenge at that point becomes dodging a mass of bullets while flinging hapless enemies in the right direction, with boss fights being a challenging, but satisfying, culmination of this.
Cyberpulse wrings as much as it can out of this simple loop over its fifty or so levels. Sometimes it’s a classic ‘destroy all enemies’, other times it locks off your well, causing you to rely on special skills, and so on. It’s kept fresh. It also helps that movement feels fluid, helping with the dodging, and there’s enough weight to the effects to make destroying enemies fun. If I had a gameplay note, it’s that I wish the right stick was trusted a bit more. It simply alters the direction of gravity, leaving the left stick to handle both movement and ship direction. The right stick spinning the gravity well around to the direction it’s pointing would feel a bit smoother.
Bit Crushing
There’s a strong sense of style layered around this gameplay loop. Music is appropriately synth-y, for one, which suits me fine. Cyberpulse also keeps the story a light presence, maintaining the arcade feel. You’re destroying viruses inside a computer; like McAfee directed a Tron remake. Then there are the graphics. The bright, near-overpowering graphics. I love it; it’s a nuts aesthetic that fits the theme well. The colours are extremely vibrant and enemies are, generally, immediatly distinguishable by their colour and shape. It’s the kind of game you’d want as your screensaver, just so you can revel in the chaos and colour.
It does make it quite difficult to keep track of what’s what, though. I’d say about 25% of my deaths were due to me just guessing where to move, ’cause I’d lost myself in a big pile of multicoloured neon. That might also contribute to another issue: the insane difficulty spike in section eight. One level expects you to destroy a horde of enemies in twelve seconds, with lasers that dictate the speed of the fight. Ah well. As I said, the frustration is alleviated by the quick restarts and the overall enjoyment that the general loop provides. It’s just plain fun to play. A particularly good looking arcade game.
Cyberpulse – Good, Clean Fun
That’s not to say Cyberpulse has nothing else to offer. There’s local multiplayer, for one, in both the co-op and versus variety, depending on whether you want to make or break a friendship. You unlock various modes and add-ons for versus by playing through the campaign, which I liked. It’s nice to have an incentive to keep pushing forwards, beyond groping for the credits. While I was unable to corral anyone in the time I had, I can see it being wonderfully chaotic once four people are all locked in.
I also want to mention that Cyberpulse has a bestiary. It didn’t have to include one, but it did. I will applaud any game that does. But Cyberpulse is worth applauding regardless. It’s a successful twist on the twin-stick genre, somehow proving that bullets are fairly unnecessary. While the intense graphics do perhaps get in the way at times, Cyberpulse explores its central mechanic well and there’s a lot of content here to sink your teeth into. Strap on your ridiculous sunglasses, hack into the information super-highway and embrace Cyberpulse‘s excellent arcade action.
Wuthering Waves is an open world action RPG developed by Kuro Games. It follows the same style as other gatcha games, such as Genshin Impact and Tower Of Fantasy. Wuthering Waves hopes to carve out its niche with its faster-paced combat and spin on artifacts with a creature collecting system.
The World of Solaris-3
Your character, Rover, wakes up in Solaris-3 without their memories. Rover meets various characters along their journey, which helps them become established in the world. There was an event in the past called the Lament, an apocalyptic event that created these monsters called Tacet Discords, which you fight. The story’s first act establishes the world, various factions, and connects Rover to the history of Solaris-3.
Honestly, the start of the game is a bad first impression. A lot of the initial world-building felt like information overload, which caused me to zone out of what was happening at times. To add to these woes, some of the characters’ voice-acting and writing felt one-note, bland, and inconsistent with other characters. Some character’s personalities shined; others make you want to skip through the dialogue and get to the rest of the game.
Open World
While the story is underwhelming, exploring Wuthering Waves is a fun experience. There are loads of activities for players to get Astrites, the currency needed to obtain characters and weapons on the various banners. You can solve puzzles, complete time trials where you fight enemies, and even play mini-games. There is a currency called waveplates, the time-gated currency for certain activities. You have 240 waveplates, and one waveplate regenerates every six minutes. So the idea is you can log into the game once per day and spend the waveplates leveling up your characters and weapons without spending too much time on the daily grind. Each activity costs about 40 to 60 waveplates, which felt like I had enough to grind daily.
Solaris-3 has a lot of things to explore and collect, so the game gives you options to traverse it. Unlocking teleporters around will help you fast-travel to your destinations. You have a glider and grappling hook, which allow you to traverse gaps. The most interesting thing that Wuthering Waves added is how to scale cliffs. Sprinting at walls allows you to start running up walls. This feature made me happy, as other games like this can be tedious to scale cliffs. Exploration overall is fun, and there are various environments to explore.
Gotta Catch Them All?
One of my favorite parts about Wuthering Waves is the combat. You have teams of three characters, all with different elements. You can swap between the three characters when the situation suits that character the best. Each character has a skill and an ultimate ability. You have normal attacks, heavy attacks, and plunging attacks. However, things are faster and more fluid than Genshin Impact. One thing that sets it apart is the intro/outro skills. When a character swaps, they leave behind different abilities. Sometimes, you get stat boosts; sometimes, they deal damage after leaving the field. After charging up your character, swapping will lead to an intro attack. Overall, everything feels fast and has a higher skill ceiling.
The other unique thing about Wuthering Waves is its artifact system. When you defeat monsters in the overworld, you can absorb them, and they become echoes. Echoes give you stat bonuses. Having multiple of the same echoes in an echo set can grant bonus effects such as bonus elemental damage and other powerful effects. You have a data bank where you can record the echoes you collect, which will increase your stamina and get better echoes as you progress deeper into the game. While you can only collect all the echoes in your world once a day, you can visit other people’s worlds to continue the echo hunt. The downside is that you need a resource called tuners to roll substats, which can turn into the grindy, RNG-dependent nature of gatcha games. I enjoy that you are incentivized to go to other people’s worlds and co-op the game. I also like that you have more chances of getting a desired main stat for the echoes, but you’re still praying to get good substats for the characters.
It’s A Gatcha Game, After All
After collecting enough Astrites, you can spend them on various character and weapon banners to have a chance of getting the characters you want. The game starts with a beginner banner, which gives you a 5-star character and other goodies. From there, the game gives you the choice of a 5-star character to pull on, which will guarantee you that character. There is also the standard banner and a limited event banner, which rotates characters. You need about 1600 Astrites to pull ten times on normal banners. For event banners, you have a 50/50 chance of getting that event character. If you lose your 50/50 shot, you are guaranteed the event character the next time you pull a 5-star character. The maximum number of rolls you need to pull a 5-star event character is 80, less than Genshin Impact’s 90 pulls.
For transparency, I think my luck on the gatcha was pretty good. I obtained the best healer from my beginner banner, and thanks to some in-game mail, I could grab the best DPS at the start of the game. Each account will be different, and it’s important to gatcha responsibly. While I think this game is generous with rewarding you at the start of the game, I think it will still be a grind for free-to-play players to build up resources. Expect to plan carefully for future banners. I cannot predict the future, so while the rewards I got while playing the game are generous, I do not know if this will continue into the future.
A Long-Term Investment
Wuthering Waves is a free-to-play gatcha game. They want you to spend your time in their world and hopefully spend money on it. So, is Wuthering Waves worth playing? I think long-term, it is. Its combat is very solid, and the exploration aspect is also fun. Its biggest faults are the story, which is very weak, and the voice acting of some characters is subpar. To Kuro Games’ credit, they are working to address these issues. The game has been patched constantly since I started playing, and they are working to address the voice acting. If you’re looking for a fast-paced action game and a deep, open world, I recommend Wuthering Waves. If you’re more of a story person, maybe wait to see if the story improves.
I haven’t played many games like this, a tower defense that can be played with multiple people and it’s also a shooter if the idea wasn’t bold enough, and oddly enough it all just seemed to work. Hi my name is phant0m and these are my thoughts on… The Fate of Baldr.
Visuals
First thing you’ll notice in this game Is visuals I haven’t quite seen before, it looks kinda weird, like old and cheap mobile games. Certain aspects of the visuals work specifically when your on a super outlandish and colorful world that you wouldn’t see in the industry, but when the colors are gone; so is the flair, luckily there’s only a few areas that struck me that way. On top of those facts I cant help but feel that the character models feel exactly the same. Enemies will be used as an example, they just look low quality and ugly, which luckily they chose ugly creatures to begin with. Our lead characters on the other hand dont look as bad, honestly they look really cool, especially with their blend of space viking type of design which i was really digging.
Gameplay
The gameplay of this game is super unique! There are 4 different builds all accompanied by a skill tree! That in my experience helped in differentiating everything! On top of that is sometimes mediocre combat, when it came to the guns or melee weapons I couldn’t help but feel disappointed. Not because there was little variety but more so in how weak it felt. Enemies came up to me and once they arrived get absolutely mauled by bullets just to remain standing? It was super frustrating because I felt useless compared to my overpowered friends. The towers actually made sense! They dealt high amounts of damage and I could finish the job after, but the towers being powerful made my character feel despaired by theyre strength instead of needed since most of the levels come off as easy To fix this in my own opinion, I believe the developers should flood the players and towers with way more enemies and increase the damage output of weapons to change the gameplay from slow and sometimes boring to fast high action tower defense shooter. At least that would intrigue me a bit more.
Story/Characters/Music
There isn’t much to talk about in this regard. Story here is non-existent which is fine since most of the game was fun to get through without it. Characters consisted of 4 different classes to choose from, since your character doesn’t make any noises or nothing they all come off as very samey. Lastly the music is fine, it’s not amazing, but it’s definitely not bad, it crosses the border perfectly. Basically I’m fine listening to this.
Performance
The performance of the game is pretty outstanding, I’m getting around 200 fps no issue and that’s pretty insane considering I’m only rockin a 165 hz monitor that barely ever gets to show off especially when it comes to games at maximum settings.
Verdict
Anyways if you’re wondering. I do recommend this game. It’s not a combination of what I usually like but it does the basics well enough that many will like it. I give it a 7/10. Its negatives mostly lie in the fact that the gameplay can get dull and tiring after long hours. And how much of the game only pulls off average and not exceeding beyond that. Anyways those were my thoughts on The Fate of Baldr. Thanks for Reading! 🙂
Side Notes
This review was constructed on an RX 6750 XT Power color and an Intel i5 13400f PC!
Timberman: The Big Adventure is a colourful retro title that made me smile. This 90s-inspired experience won’t push you too hard. However, the straightforward gameplay is interesting enough to pique your interest. Moreover, the 16-bit pixel art aesthetic tugs at your nostalgia-infused heartstrings.
This 2D side-scrolling platform adventure title was developed by Digital Melody and published by Forever Entertainment. Furthermore, it can be enjoyed alone or locally as a cooperative game. Either way, the action doesn’t change, and the difficulty remains the same. Additionally, there are some collectables to search for, enemies to thwart, and 3 massive bosses to overcome. Accordingly, though it is compact and lacking in depth, it is addictive, simple, and wonderfully dated.
Timberman: The Big Adventure is heart-warming.
Tales of separated families and heroic deeds make me all gooey inside. There is nothing better than a selfless act. What’s more, if a family can be reunited at the same time, then sign me up! Luckily, this is exactly what happens in Timberman: The Big Adventure. This heart-warming tale lacks complexity, but its story and core mechanics will bring a smile to your face.
The hero is a humble lumberjack. Yet, when his bear friend is separated from his family, he must act. Additionally, when Evil Corp wishes to decimate the beautiful forest, this enrages the protagonist. Consequently, he grabs his axe, pulls up his big boy pants, and undertakes a brief but retro romp through the woods.
Straightforward mechanics.
I adore 90s platform titles. The straightforward mechanics and clichéd plot always got under my skin. Thankfully, Timberman: The Big Adventure captures these elements throughout. The core gameplay demands that you negotiate tight but interesting stages. As you explore, you’ll find collectables and hidden locations. Moreover, there is an array of enemies to kill and some simple platforming elements to overcome.
These rudimentary ideas won’t blow you away. However, I loved the casual approach and the countless secrets. Furthermore, the fun mini-games were addictive. These silly distractions were unnecessary, but I couldn’t put them down. Subsequently, they added some depth to an otherwise shallow experience.
Alongside the exploration moments were some big boss battles. In typical 90s fashion, the encounters weren’t too testing. As such, you may die a few times, but once you get to grips with the task at hand, you’ll overcome every boss you face.
Timberman: The Big Adventure is strikingly garish.
The visuals are as retro as the gameplay. Timberman: The Big Adventure has a fantastic 16-bit pixel art style that belongs to a bygone era. Moreover, the excellent stage design is compact but fascinating to explore. Thanks to the 2D approach, the developers could incorporate plenty of secret locations. This was great as it prevented the action from feeling flat whilst adding a minor layer of depth.
The audio is shrill and uncomfortable, but brilliantly dated. I loved the simple tunes and the rudimentary sound effects. Though the soundtrack won’t get your foot tapping, it was enjoyable nonetheless. The aesthetics are as dated and basic as they come. However, I loved the presentation and its casual simplicity.
Excellent controls.
Though I didn’t expect the controls to be complicated. I hoped it to be responsive and relaxing to play. Thankfully, a well-considered layout and a quick tutorial get you up and running in no time. Moreover, the platforms are positioned so that precision and accuracy are a must. Consequently, though it is relatively easy to navigate the world, you must always be alert to reduce frustration.
The hidden areas and cooperative gameplay enhance replay value. However, Timberman: The Big Adventure is a disappointingly short affair. Just as you get into the swing of things, the game is all but over. Luckily, it is inexpensive and this mitigates the short playtime.
Timberman: The Big Adventure is fun but shallow.
Platforming games never used to be this easy. Sadly, Timberman: The Big Adventure won’t challenge skilled gamers. However, it is still enjoyable and I loved the aesthetics. Additionally, the mini-games were fun and the bosses tested you momentarily. Accordingly, this affordable title was satisfying and I recommend buying it here! Can you reunite the bear with its family? Grab an axe, explore the forest, and defeat the Evil Corp.
Before I start giving my opinion on Archetype Arcadia, I want to make it clear to the reader that the genre is not one I am most familiar with. However, in this review I try to give a fair reflection of what the game represents.
Archetype Arcadia dives into a bleak post-apocalyptic world corrupted by a mysterious disease. In this world, the only escape seems to be a captivating virtual reality known as Archetype Arcadia. This dark science fiction visual novel offers a compelling narrative with interesting themes, but stumbles with pacing and some underdeveloped elements.
The world-building in Archetype Arcadia is its strongest aspect. The disease, Peccatomania, is a fascinating concept. It twists people’s minds, driving them to destructive urges. This social collapse creates a constant sense of dread and hopelessness, making Archetype Arcadia a world on the brink. The virtual world serves as a stark contrast, offering a fantastical escape but shrouded in its own mysteries. As someone who likes a good story in my games, from the beginning I was hooked on the concept offered by Kemco Games.
As a visual novel, Archetype Arcadia focuses on story and character interaction. The narrative unfolds through beautifully illustrated scenes and dialogue choices that influence the story’s path. The branching narrative keeps you engaged, wondering how your choices will impact the characters and the world. While the core story is intriguing, the pacing can be uneven at times. Certain sections drag on, while others feel rushed.
The characters in Archetype Arcadia are well-developed, each with their own motivations and struggles. The protagonist was easy for me to connect with, maybe because i have a “weak spot” for this type of dark character. The supporting cast is a mix of allies and rivals within the virtual world, each with their own stake in its existence. However, some seem to be unnecessary or even with somewhat forced motivations to integrate into the main story, while others don’t get the screentime they deserve.
A Feast for the Senses
The artwork in Archetype Arcadia is phenomenal. The character designs are distinct and expressive, while the backgrounds range from the desolate wastelands of the real world to the vibrant landscapes of Archetype Arcadia. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with haunting melodies that perfectly complement the atmosphere. I trully recommend the use of headphones, it transforms the journey you are about to make.
Conclusion
Archetype Arcadia is a visual novel with a lot to offer. The world, characters, and core themes are captivating, but the pacing and underdeveloped elements hold it back from reaching its full potential. Despite these shortcomings, Archetype Arcadia is a visually stunning and narratively engaging experience, especially for fans of dark science fiction. If you’re looking for a choice-driven story with a unique premise and beautiful visuals, Archetype Arcadia is worth checking out, but be prepared for a few bumps along the way.
Once a science-fiction concept and the stuff of fantasy, digital technology has advanced to such an impressive level that digital world films are mirroring the developments we’re experiencing – especially in the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological sensations. Technology has impacted so many sectors that it’s impossible to think of the world without it. Shopping, finance, banking, food, travel, and online gambling all operate through the prism of the digital world.
Casino games, and gambling in general, have transformed into an entirely new dimension of gaming. Live table games, for example, have transitioned from land-based casino floors to the Royal Panda online platform within the space of a couple of decades. However, casino gaming is just one small element of how the digital world constantly changes and adjusts to our behavior. All of the digital world films we will touch on in this article have one thing in common – they were innovative and predicted a world that few people envisaged, but they now look more like prophecies than works of fiction.
#1 – Terminator 1 and 2 – (1984 & 1991)
Often billed as two of the greatest science fiction films ever made, the original 1980s classic put Arnold Schwarzenegger on the map as a Hollywood A-lister. Operating from a dystopian future and the modern-day setting of 1980s America, the film follows the Terminator on his quest to murder the future leader of the resistance, John Connor, before he’s even born.
Many believe the second film is better than the first, combining with the first into a thrilling sequel. The second film is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most innovative science fiction films ever made. As AI becomes far more intelligent, doomsayers believe we grow closer to a Terminator-like scenario every day – although this is unlikely, for now.
#2 – 2001 A Space Odyssey – (1968)
Venturing into classic cinema, it’s hard to believe that Kubrick’s iconic digital world classic is over half a century old. For many, it is the magnum opus of one of cinema’s most outstanding directors.
Although polarizing at first – with some people even walking out of the original screening – it is one of the most innovative films of all time. It transcends the concept of science fiction and the digital world, featuring a soundtrack and storyline that has stood the test of time.
#3 – The Matrix – (1999)
Set during the angsty, uncertain backdrop of the late 1990s, The Matrix channels multiple concepts and has fostered many fan theories about its true meaning. Although the action shots and cinematography were widely praised for their innovation, it is a film that has taken on deeper meaning as more of us become perennially fixated online. The concept of a digital world, bolstered by AI and Virtual Reality (VR), becomes even more of a possibility.
Back in the late 1990s, computers, programming, and the idea of the internet becoming the driving factor in global society were all theories and hot topics for debate. Now, billions of people continue to channel almost every aspect of their existence through social media, the internet, and mobile phones. The Matrix is more relevant now than when it was released a quarter of a century ago, yet despite several recent installments to the franchise falling short of the mark, the original film’s legacy remains untouched.
#4 – The Social Network – (2010)
While The Social Network might not initially jump out as a digital world film, it details the rise of a monolithic figure in social media – Mark Zuckerberg. The pioneering, New York-based tech billionaire owns Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, and has forked the company’s rebranding into the world of VR.
It is a real-life example and a fantastic depiction of how the internet can be a force for good but also a force for evil, and one man’s unquenchable thirst for power and respect. As Instagram dominates modern-day advertising, with many people seemingly living their whole existence through it, the digital world is now the modern world. There’s arguably no other figure who has influenced this transition more than Zuckerberg himself.
However, from a critical perspective, the film has a fantastic soundtrack and excellent performances from Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield. Also, it is Quentin Tarantino’s favorite film of the entire decade; not a bad quote to have attached to your film.
The film won multiple Academy Awards, and as the dangers of social media and its unmeasurable impact on society continue to drive conversation, The Social Network shows us how and where it all truly started to explode into a global juggernaut, with Zuckerberg at the helm.
After a fifteen-year silence, developer Arika released a long-awaited installment of the Endless Ocean series, bringing to life Endless Ocean Luminous; an adventure simulation game where players freely explore the expanse of the “Veiled Sea” and discover and learn about a myriad of sea creatures.
This game was released on the Nintendo Switch on May 2nd, 2024.
An endlessly generated ocean
Players have the choice of playing the story mode, or taking a freestyle solo or multiplayer dive.
You play as a marine researcher tasked with tagging fish and taking snapshots of them within the unexplored sea. In the story mode, players are accompanied by Sera, the assistant AI who aids with navigation and support. Sera points out to you the “World Coral,” which hosts a healthy variety of wildlife and is crucial to the survival of the Veiled Sea’s ecosystem. The research team begun “Project Aegis” in order to rescue the coral reef from succumbing to necrosis.
While exploring the depths of the ocean–specifically during the solo and multiplayer dives–the map is randomly generated every time. Essentially, players are not even exploring the same ocean . . . after ending a dive session, it is not like you can then go back and return to a previous location you explored.
For other games, the random generation works quite well and provides a unique freshness to the experience. Such is the case with Minecraft or Don’t Starve. For Endless Ocean Luminous, I feel as if this feature does not really add anything to the experience. If anything, it takes away from the continuity and geographical memory of the Veiled Sea. In reality, the landscape of an ocean does not fully shift every thirty minutes. It feels as if I am exploring different seas entirely every time, but not in an interesting way.
Low risk low reward
There are several things players are able to do in the game, and the vibe is overall relaxing and chill. You do not have any particular goals outside of the story mode, other than collecting sparkling items and taking pictures of fish you find in order to extrapolate data. Players can dive and swim, tag creatures, take snapshots, and permit some fish to follow you around. There are achievements and badges you can acquire, so while this is a nice feature for collectors, I believe that most people that play this game are just looking for something slow-paced and cozy.
Players can explore several different sea biomes, like kelp forests, coral reefs, and polar areas. There is said to be over 500 species of sea creatures waiting to be explored, ranging from marine life you could find in real life, to once-thought “extinct” species (e.g., the Megalodon) or even mythical creatures.
Lucky for the scuba diving researcher, players have no stakes whatsoever. The diver can never run out of oxygen, nor get too cold, tired, or hungry. Players cannot get hurt nor attacked by any creature, no matter how menacing. For the vibe of the game, this makes sense. Endless Ocean Luminous is supposed to be soothing and curious. For gamers who enjoy a challenge, or any sort of tangible consequence . . . then this is certainly not a game you would be looking for.
A sea of nothingness
Is Endless Ocean Luminous a relaxing and somewhat enjoyable video game? Sure. Is it a full-fledged, adventure game worth $50? In my opinion . . . not really.
The story mode, while nice to have in theory, is kind of irrelevant. It simply serves as a tutorial that teaches players in twoish-minute chapters all the different game functions. It is great to showcase all the mechanics in this format, but why disguise it as a story mode?
The story itself is much of nothing. Players are exposed to monotonous, uninteresting dialogue . . . and that is about it. The whole topic on “Project Aegis” and the “World Coral” only extends so deep, yet it implies that it is so important to the point if it were to fully die out, all life on the planet would perish. Not only is Project Aegis private information that the publish is unaware of, but I find it strange that only two divers are set out to learn more about the World Coral and find ways of maintaining its life. Most of the time, players are just taking pictures of fish anyways. It isn’t until several chapters in that Sera explains to Daniel and the player that you must fix the coral’s “geological veins.”
It is a sure nod to reality-based efforts to fight coral bleaching and ecosystem disruption. Endless Ocean Luminous attempts to be a learning tool, but these blips of information fail to elaborate and pretty much reinforce details that most people are already aware of.
The mechanics of the story mode are rather lame. Players’ movements are incredibly restricted, the instructions are sometimes unclear, and the friendship-rivalry with your coworker Daniel lacks dynamism. There were many moments where I simply skipped several chapters of the tutorial. I would rather just explore and understand the game myself.
Explore the unexplored
The solo and multiplayer modes are where Endless Ocean Luminous shines the brightest (though not by much). In the solo dives, players have near-absolute freedom to move around and explore the seabed and caves and reefs galore. There are random sets of marine creatures clustered in different areas, for example in a seemingly barren area I discovered a whale shark, several schools of fish, and had a “rare” encounter with the mythical shark Thanatos. Taking pictures of these creatures will give players information on that species’ habitat, diet, and size. There is not really any in-depth data given. While somewhat of a learning feature, it is not a full-scale encyclopedia.
Players are able to customize their scuba diver with different color options. You can also purchase more stickers to tag with and more emotes to communicate with on multiplayer. Players acquire currency by extrapolating data, salvaging, filling out the sea map, and harvesting bioluminescent algae. Some purchasable items are unlocked by attaining achievements, however.
In the multiplayer mode, you can play with up to 30 players online. This function does not add anything practical to the experience, but might offer some good vibes and the fun of learning together. The online play seems to run smoothly without issue.
Beautiful setting, in “Nintendo Switch terms”
Many people describe the graphics as rather breathtaking, but I was admittedly underwhelmed. When watching the trailer to Endless Ocean Luminous, I was expecting a magical atmosphere and a highly detailed appearance of the seascape. When actually playing the game, sure, the graphics are lovely . . . by Nintendo Switch standards. There is an overall fuzziness to the graphics because the Switch can only process so much. Though, the sea creatures and corals themselves are indeed impressively realistic. The details of the fish both large and small are quite mesmerizing.
There were times where the visuals impressed me, and other times where they were major disappointments. The Veiled Sea is pretty, but there are also so many spots on the map in which the sea is just bare and devoid.
The search for awe and wonder
When I would encounter groups of marine life, there was the occasional awe and excitement. I mean, fish are beautifully weird. Witnessing the menacing grace of the Rajas Emas coelacanth or the Lamba Apsara is quite the sight to see, especially when playing Endless Ocean Luminous on the big television screen.
Otherwise, the game just seemed to majorly lack a certain something. I never became fully engrossed into the atmosphere, and the style of it felt rather uninspired and nonmagical. In terms of underwater simulations, there are definite other titles that do deliver wonderous, artful experiences to the mysterious ocean depths, such as Subnautica, Abzu, or Koral. These games are equipped with their own sort of artistic choices and immersive charm. Endless Ocean as a series just does not seem to hold up. I think that Luminous should have done something more profoundly unique and make it stand out from its previous 2000s titles to be up in the running as a sea-inspired competitor.
Final thoughts
Once upon a time, Endless Ocean served as a novelty for an at-home diving experience. Now, despite its polished graphics, it is anything but a shell of itself. The fish are so nicely detailed, the soundtrack is chill, and the playthrough may be fun for half an hour.
Endless Ocean Luminous is going to have a hard time being someone’s first choice for an underwater simulation experience. To be frank, I think I would just rather go to an aquarium.
If you really, really enjoy party games but don’t want the hassle of rotating between various party modes then Run Ram is the title for you. With a heavy focus on multiplayer, this game would be a fun way to pass a couple of minutes but unfortunately it is a dull experience due to the lack of features to keep you playing.
When I booted up the game, I was ready for some chaotic multiplayer gameplay but was met with an extremely upsetting experience. You have a couple of modes which include couch co-op and online. While there is a training mode to experiment with, the A.I just seemed to sit in one play with no movement so training turned into me just hitting stationary targets. Strangely enough, the training mode is the only one to offer the option of fighting A.I so unless you have a group that is ready to sit down and play the game, there isn’t much here to offer up.
For those with a group that wants to engage in some fun party action, you have a small amount of game modes to run through. Traditional modes such as death match and team deathmatch make an appearance here with the goal being to simply blow up more ships than the others. There is also a one shot mode that means you have one life during the duration of the match. From the small amount of experience I got from the training mode, I could see that the ships don’t function differently and are more of an aesthetic choice.
You will fire cannons in an attempt to destroy the other ships and rack up points. You are also able to drop explosive barrels in order to damage opponents who are trailing too closely. I would love to explain how well these mechanics work in action but after spending multiple moments searching for a lobby with no success, I can only offer up what I was able to play through the very limited training mode.
There are multiple maps to switch between and this will give you a wonderful change of scenery but the experience will be the same no matter what map you decide to go with. Blowing up each other’s ships and causing chaos will surely wear out its welcome after a couple of matches but this is a feeling you’ll only get to enjoy in the off chance you are able to find a match.
I cannot stress enough how unenjoyable this experience was due to the inability to find a match to play online and with a simple feature such as A.I opponents missing, this is a game that comes hard to recommend. Hopefully down the road, the devs are able to implement a way to enjoy what is on offer here. The game has a solid foundation and the potential to be enjoyable but it is hard to see that potential when you are staring at a screen that tells you no matches can be found on multiple occasions.
The Arctis Nova 5X headset from SteelSeries is pretty special. Available for under £130 this device is at the upper end of the mid-point price range. However, this outlay is worth every penny if you love gaming and plenty of features. Additionally, they are unbelievably comfortable and they are compatible with many gaming platforms.
Depending on which model you buy, you can connect seamlessly to your Xbox, PC, or PlayStation. The Arctis Nova 5X headset is designed for Xbox and PC. Furthermore, it has a wireless dongle or Bluetooth compatibility. Accordingly, you can use it on your Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or ROG Ally if you so wish. This versatility was impressive. However, it was the build and audio quality that blew me away!
Alongside this, the introduction of a mobile gaming app was spectacular. SteelSeries has outdone itself with this user-friendly software. With the touch of a button, you can alter your EQ settings or select pre-designed gaming profiles. Consequently, you can adjust your audio on the fly and maximise your gaming potential.
What’s in the box of the Arctis Nova 5X headset?
The packaging is robust and attractive. Furthermore, it can be recycled, and the contents are well protected.
The Arctis Nova 5X headset has a sleek design. The black finish is professional, and the tactile buttons are well-positioned. Moreover, it has a retractable microphone.
Connect the headset with the wireless dongle.
Extend your dongle connection with the USB extender.
Charge the device with the USB-C cable.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
SteelSeries is renowned for its exceptional gaming accessories. Luckily, the Arctis Nova 5X headset doesn’t break this mould. This device has it all! Spatial awareness audio for immersive sound, an exceptional microphone that delivers crystal clear communication, and a whopping 60-hour battery life. Furthermore, you may flit between wireless and Bluetooth connectivity at the touch of a button. Subsequently, you can game and take calls with ease.
Alongside these elements is the exceptional Nova companion app. This free-to-download software allows you to utilise pre-installed game profiles. Additionally, you may save a unique profile for your wireless and Bluetooth connection. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy a seamless transition and a user-friendly experience every time you play your favourite game.
The ability to use your headset for a week without charging is an attractive proposition. The 60-hour battery life and fast charging facility make this a reality. For “normal” gamers, this battery life far outweighs their gaming hours. However, streamers and heavy users will find the fast charging essential. Luckily, a quick boost of power gets you back into the game in no time. Consequently, around 2 hours of charging will fill the battery and get you back on your feet. Alternatively, 15 minutes of charge will give you 6 hours of gaming fun.
Connectivity.
I never knew I needed multipoint technology until I tested it. The ability to flit from one device to the other at the touch of a button is game-changing. Moreover, if you need to take important phone calls, or you use video calling for work, the Arctis Nova 5X headset has you covered. The discreet button on the earcups transfers connectivity from your USB dongle to any compatible Bluetooth device.
This quick and trouble-free transition lets you change gaming platforms without fuss. Moreover, there are fewer wires and even fewer problems to overcome. This user-friendly experience is ideal if you want to reduce stress whilst improving your limited gaming time.
On top of this, the Nova companion app allows you to adjust your gaming profile and settings on the fly. Therefore, if you change genre or your hearing becomes sensitive, you can tweak the settings for the ultimate audio experience.
Sound quality.
The audio quality blew my mind! The 40mm Neodymium drivers deliver crisp tones and an exceptional bass line. The highly detailed soundscape is perfect for audiophiles. Additionally, the balanced levels ensure that every game, film, or TV series sounds as it should. These drivers support the exceptional 360° Spatial Audio.
This immersive audio experience allows users to hear every sound. This creates a truly unique and captivating sensation that transforms how you game. Additionally, the ability to identify minute noises gives the user a match-winning edge. As such, if you love competitive FPS games, or you adore booming soundtracks and awe-inspiring sound effects, then these headphones are ideal.
Competitive titles fall flat if communication is poor. Luckily, the retractable microphone utilises ClearCast 2.X. This next-gen feature delivers 2x the bandwidth and twice the audio clarity (32KHz/16Bit audio). This is essential if you wish to remove hideous ambient sounds. Thankfully, this special mic is beautifully clear without any unfortunate cracking, popping, or echoed audio. Furthermore, you needn’t shout or scream as the microphone head can be placed wherever you wish. The result? Clear communication with your friends and a quieter house.
Build quality.
This lightweight device is flexible, comfortable, and perfect for marathon sessions. Moreover, the tactile earcup dials enhance usability. Whereas the retractable microphone retains a streamlined appearance. Thankfully, the oversized earcups are comfortable without adding pressure to your temples. Moreover, if you are a wearer of glasses, the soft padding enables you to game comfortably.
This padding never overheated, and I experienced no sweating or other heat-related side effects. Additionally, the soft support headband can be adjusted to create the perfect fit. This material is supported by a strong but flexible main headband unit. This hard-wearing element is designed with poise and balance in mind. Consequently, once you place the device on your head, it won’t slip, and you’ll feel no pressure or discomfort.
Is the Arctis Nova 5X headset worth it?
SteelSeries has somehow moved the goalposts again. Thanks to the incredible Nova companion app, I believe that these headphones are better than the Arctis Nova 7X Wireless headphones. This is a big statement as I love everything about the 7X. However, the next-gen microphone, exceptional audio, incredible build quality, and user-friendly app make this a market leader. Accordingly, it’s a no-brainer! Up the ante and impress your friends by buying this here!
(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! SteelSeries provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)
