SkyCity Online Casino Bets Big on New Bingo Software

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SkyCity Online Casino is banking on bingo to be the next big hit with gaming fans in New Zealand. The Malta Gaming Authority regulated online casino introduced a new bingo product in October 2023 to enhance what’s already a vibrant community of gamers. The digital bingo suite contains a selection of games that run consistently throughout the day. 75-ball and 80-ball bingo form the foundation of the new gaming lobby. These variants are popular around the world and stay true to the traditional rules of bingo.

Bingo is a Game for the Masses

Image by Paulo Diniz diniz from Pixabay

In a bid to make its product as appealing to the masses as possible, SkyCity offers bingo games with a modern twist. Games such as Diamond Dazzle and Boombox introduce exotic themes, bonus features, and jackpot payouts. These variants borrow from popular casino games to create new gaming experiences. When you look at some of the latest innovations in bingo, you’ll notice that TV shows and movies have also been used to enhance the gaming experience.

Deal or No Deal Bingo is the obvious example. Taking direct inspiration and imagery from the hit show, this 90-ball variant has prizes for completing a line, two lines, and a full house. The bonus is that a full house also unlocks the Deal or No Deal game. The winning player gets an offer from the Banker. They can take that prize or open boxes.

Combining bingo with elements of the TV show creates a unique experience that’s appealing to a wider demographic than would be interested in a classic variant such as 80-ball. The same is true of other crossover products, including Britain’s Got Talent Bingo, Friends Bingo, and the X-Factor Bingo.

A Game that Has it All

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

SkyCity Online Casino’s new bingo suite will not only offer the latest variants but all the extra features players now associate with the game. Chat boxes, message boards, promotions, competitions, and bingo tips will all contribute to an all-round entertainment experience. As noted by the introductory marketing materials, each bingo game at SkyCity Online Casino will have a “vibrant community of players.” The aim of the game is entertainment, but that’s not all. SkyCity Online Casino offers real-money gaming options.

Players can make safe deposits using a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, eWallets such as PayPal, bank transfers, and mobile solutions such as Apple Pay. Funds in an account allow customers to play real money casino games, bingo, and bet on virtual sports. Prizes are paid in cash and can be withdrawn in similarly secure ways. So, while online bingo is all about the buzz and entertainment, it’s impossible to ignore the financial rewards. SkyCity Online Casino is fully licensed and regulated, which means it can legally offer real-money games, including bingo.

This, combined with all the features that make it enjoyable for players of all persuasions, is why SkyCity Online Casino is banking on bingo to be its next big hit.  

Review: Paw Patrol World

My video review with footage captured using my Xbox Series X.

Paw Patrol World brings life to this much-loved franchise. Furthermore, it adds depth and adventure to an otherwise strict linear franchise. This wonderfully open-world experience allows your youngsters to work together to resolve the issues of Adventure Bay. Moreover, they can control their favourite member of the Paw Patrol in new and unique ways.

This open-world adventure was designed by 3DClouds and published by Outright Games. Moreover, this colourful experience is full of mini-tasks, side quests, and has an array of pup treats to collect. What’s more, there are 4 unique areas to explore, an untethered cooperative experience to enjoy, and loads of Paw Patrol vehicles to use.

Enjoy split screen action when playing Paw Patrol World.
Work together to save the day.

Paw Patrol World sticks to familiar storytelling territory.

Paw Patrol is much loved because of its familiar tropes and amusing antagonists. Fortunately, Paw Patrol World sticks to this tried and tested formula. As such, your children will love the silliness that unfolds and the usual pantomime shenanigans. Additionally, the whole cast of adorable pups is at your disposal as you explore and help the citizens of each unique location.

The plot revolves around Adventure Bay and Mayor Humdinger’s dastardly plot. Adventure Bay is preparing to host its annual festival. However, Mayor Humdinger and the Catastrophe crew have other plans. They have their own festival to attend and they want all the attention. Accordingly, they destroy everything they can to undermine Mayor Goodway’s plans. However, the Paw Patrol are on hand to rectify the issues and thwart Humdinger’s awful plans.

Perfect for children.

Every aspect of this title is designed with youngsters in mind. As such, it is extremely accessible, and every task is straightforward. Moreover, there are helpful hints and many of the instructions are repeated nonstop. As such, it can be somewhat tedious from an adult’s point of view. To have Ryder make the same comment for the nth time is mind-numbing. Yet, my 5-year-old appreciated the constant reassurance and the simple-to-follow instructions.

What was also great was the compact open-world space. Though each arena appears large, they are manageable and easy to navigate. Additionally, there is just the right amount of side quests and activities to prevent it from becoming overwhelming. Consequently, I was happy to let my kids roam free, and they rarely asked for any guidance.

Tracker has missed some pup treats in the jungle.
You’ve missed some pup treats.

Paw Patrol World has an interactive world.

I loved how accessible the interesting environment was. However, I was more impressed by the interactivity of every setting. The developers have invested plenty of time and effort into hiding activities and collectables in the surrounding world. Subsequently, you can explore every nook and cranny to find leaves to hide in, items to repair, swings to play with, and much more. On top of this, the world takes on a truly 3D shape. Accordingly, you must search rooftops and use bushes, parasols, and other items to reach higher levels.

Alongside this, you are tasked with finding mountains of pup treats. These biscuit-shaped items are hidden in each of the 4 environments. Consequently, it didn’t matter if you were at Jake’s Mountain, Barkingburg, the Jungle, or Adventure Bay, there were plenty of things to look for. These additional tasks make Paw Patrol World stand out from the rest of the franchise. Not only is it an interesting title for kids, but it has so much to do that it’ll keep them busy for hours.

A cooperative dream.

The inclusion of a non-tethered cooperative mode was a godsend. I love letting my kids loose on every Outright Games title that is released. However, I despise the constant bickering as they get impatient waiting for their turn. Thankfully, the ability to freely explore each area was impressive. Furthermore, both players can control their favourite pup and this reduces arguments further.

On top of this, there were no requirements to help one another during the main missions or side quests. Consequently, if one of your children fancies exploring whilst the other progresses the game, then the pair are not penalised.

Don't forget to collect your dog tags.
Take to the water and collect that tag.

Paw Patrol World looks nice. However, it didn’t blow me away.

Kid-friendly games don’t focus on mind-blowing graphics. Instead, they are colourful, exciting, and safe. Paw Patrol World is no different! Each of the characters is familiar and their movements and vehicles are just as expected. What’s more, exploring the world is straightforward, and I experienced no glitches or bugs. On top of this, the clean UI and excellent split-screen mode were easy to follow.

The audio was cute and adorable. Moreover, each character sounds like its TV counterpart. Accordingly, your kids will love the familiar approach. On top of this, the sound effects were simple but impressive. I loved the crunch of the pup treats and the noise of every vehicle. Accordingly, the developers have done a great job.

The team take time out and enjoy a game of football.
Time to relax and play some football.

Brilliant controls.

The control system is perfect for younger gamers. The simple inputs and responsive controls were fantastic. Additionally, my kids never struggled thanks to the repetitive and easy-to-understand tutorial. Furthermore, the well-considered level design made it easy to navigate the colourful and interesting world.

Paw Patrol World is captivating if you love the franchise. Moreover, the colourful characters and interactive world will keep each player busy. On top of this, there are plenty of quests and collectables to complete and find. As such, your kids will play this for hours.

Paw Patrol World is perfect for kids.

This game will drive older players barmy. However, younger gamers will adore every moment. The vibrant world and interesting stage design will fascinate your kids. Alongside this, the fun story and silly antagonist will make them smile and chuckle throughout. Accordingly, this is a child-friendly game that won’t disappoint. As such, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you help Adventure Bay and save the day? Complete the quests, find the pup treats, and stop Mayor Humdinger.

Review: SD8 Kid’s Desk

The SD8 Kid’s Desk from FlexiSpot is a great-looking and versatile piece of furniture. Don’t be fooled by the “kid” label, as this piece of furniture can be used by any age category. Thanks to the incredible motorised parts, this moveable working space is ideal for every member of your family.

What caught my eye was the versatility. Not only can this desk be used by the youngest members of your family, but it also has a wonderful storage area and a flip-style split worktop. Accordingly, this is the ideal workspace for your children as they grow into young adults. Alongside this, the build quality is incredible! Not only does it look amazing, but every part is sturdy and well-built. Furthermore, it has exemplary safety features to reassure every parent.

What’s in the box of the SD8 Kid’s Desk?

  • Delivered in 2 packages, you’ll need 2 people to carry it. Both the desk and the worktop are incredibly heavy, so I suggest you get some help to move it. The packaging is strong and robust, but relatively simple to look at. Yet, the contents are well protected, and that is all that matters.
  • The SD8 Kid’s Desk comes in multiple parts. As such, you’ll need plenty of room to construct it. Thankfully, though, everything is well-labelled, and this helps with the process.
  • The desktop must be placed on cardboard packaging to keep it protected. Failure to do so could lead to scratches or damage.
  • Tools and screws are provided to construct the unit.
  • The user guide is brilliantly straightforward.

Constructing the desk.

DIY has never fazed me. Accordingly, no matter the complexity, I will always give something a go. Fortunately, though, the SD8 Kid’s Desk requires little to no DIY experience. Thankfully, every hole is pre-drilled and the well-labelled parts are straightforward to identify. However, I recommend constructing this as a pair to make your life much easier.

On top of this, you should use the cardboard packaging to reduce damage. As long as you follow the step-by-step guide, you should have this desk constructed in around 20 minutes. However, word of warning, it is a two-person job to flip the desk onto its legs. Do not try this alone as you will hurt your back!

Technical aspects.

I adore standing desks. They are a great way to reduce back pain and joint pressure. No matter how good your chair is, you need to be mobile as well. Accordingly, I recommend pairing this desk with the BS8 office chair from FlexiSpot. This amazing desk has a height range from 58 cm to 120 cm. As such, it is ideal for small children and young adults to use. Alongside this, the smooth but strong dual motors can lift a whooping 100 Kg. Consequently, you do not need to empty the drawer or remove your laptop whenever you adjust the height.

Talking of height adjustment, the excellent integrated panel is a cinch to use. There is a vivid display that highlights the current height. Beside it, you can raise or lower the desk at the touch of a button. Additionally, you can record 4 desired levels to work with different members of your family. This was fantastic, as it made the desk even easier to use.

Another incredible aspect was the flip-style split worktop. This simple-to-access feature was smooth and adjustable. What’s more, it allows users to draw, write, or read comfortably whilst sitting down. One restriction, though, was the supports can only hold up to 1 Kg. As such, you can’t use this feature with a heavy laptop or a loaded workspace.

Safety features.

Moving parts are always a concern! I’d hate to experience trapped fingers or see a beloved family pet get hurt. Fortunately, the SD8 Kid’s Desk has anti-collision technology. Accordingly, the touch panel can be used to alter the sensitivity of this feature. Therefore, you can turn it off altogether, or increase the strength depending on your situation.

If the desk is moving and this feature is activated, it will stop what it is doing and raise to the previous known position. Consequently, it will prevent anything or anyone from becoming trapped beneath. This was reassuring, especially when you have youngsters in your house. Accidents were also prevented whenever you utilised the locking system. Subsequently, if you don’t want the desk to move, you can activate a child lock and the panel is frozen.

Build quality.

The split nature of the desktop could raise concerns. Yet, I loved the different materials and the excellent finish. Alongside this, the base of the desk looks attractive and professional. The sleek white finish is attractive and stylish. Moreover, the rounded feet and integrated wheels help to keep the desk level and move it on hardened floors.

Alongside this, there is a hidden magnet to secure a support section. This was great as it allows you to comfortably write, draw, or read whenever the worktop is raised. Additionally, the drawer is spacious, robust, and capable of holding plenty of items. Therefore, your desk doesn’t need to be messy and your art supplies and documents are kept safe at all times.

Is the SD8 Kid’s Desk worth it?

The SD8 Kid’s Desk retails for £599.99. Now, this may seem expensive, but I believe you get a lot of bang for your buck. What’s more, its robust design and excellent materials ensure that this is built to last. Accordingly, this desk should be perfect for your children as they grow up.

Alongside this, it is jam-packed with safety features, and it looks amazing. Therefore, you can use it in your living room, office, or dining space and it wouldn’t look out of place. If you then consider the excellent flip-style split workspace, you know that this is a versatile piece of furniture. As such, it has many uses and can be used by people of all ages. Consequently, I love it and I recommend that you buy it here! Furthermore, Flexispot is having a massive sale until October 31st 2023, so don’t miss out and grab yourself a bargain!

(More information on FlexiSpot can be found here!)

Review: Boti Byteland Overclocked

3D  adventure/platformers are a dime a dozen with developers looking to create the next big thing. Mascots such as Crash bandicoot, Ratchet and Clank, and Jak and Daxter have helped grow the genre and the indie scene has its fair share of contestants looking to join the ranks of those that have come before them. Unfortunately, it takes more than just a cute mascot to remain relevant in gaming. Thankfully, Boti: Byteland Overclocked hits all the right notes to make it a memorable game that stands out in a sea of games that are chasing the same goal.

We find ourselves alongside Boti, a data bot accompanied by Zero and One. With Boti being new to the world of Byteland, he is tasked with carrying data from one place to another. Unfortunately during an attempt to overclock byteland, Boti and his companions find themselves at the center of a mass issue plaguing their world. It is up to the trio to take on the many viruses around byteland while trying to restore balance and track down some missing friends. 

Right off the bat, Boti: Byteland Overclocked reminded me of the times spent playing older 3d platformers that filled the ps2 library. The graphics are reminiscent of that older charm with vibrant colors and bouncy characters filling the screen. Very rarely will you find a character idle by themselves and those that are standing around often comment about the hard work they have been doing. Since they live inside of a computer, every NPC has an important role to play in ensuring that the computer runs smoothly and efficiently. Bot can chit chat with some of the other little programs running around and his two companions will also chime in when they have something to say. If the chit chat of Zero and One is a little too much then you will be pleased to know that you can turn down the frequency of their chatter.

You will find yourself traversing a multitude of levels that vary in color schemes and objectives. Boti is capable of running and gliding across large gaps as well as performing a ground pound to activate switches. Boti will be tasked with reaching the end of the level while traversing perilous planes filled with tricky platforming and simple enemies to dispatch. One thing that I fully enjoyed was the fact that combat makes use of the skills you have been utilizing over the course of the game so everything will feel familiar as you move along. With checkpoints spread frequently throughout the levels, there is never a moment where things feel impossible and you are able to step away from the game without losing hours of progress. With a multitude of costumes and collectables to pick up along the way, this was a pleasant surprise that came in handy on multiple occasions. 

The game also features a multiplayer mode that will allow for two players to take part in the journey in both local as well as online co-op, and while I personally was not able to make use of this mode, it was nice to see it as an option. With the cute aesthetic and simple controls, this is definitely a game accessible to the younger audience that wants a more hands on experience. With a plethora of gameplay changes that occur throughout the adventure, no one will have to be concerned with gameplay becoming stale as progress is made. I often found myself trying to replay sections that had you sliding down a slope while trying to hit all the notes. Although this really only rewarded you with a trophy showing that you managed to pull this off, I was so wrapped up in how good it felt to control Boti that I didn’t mind redoing these sections. 

The adventure was filled with good feelings all around and even when faced with severe danger, Boti managed to stay upbeat and fun. While the character doesn’t speak in game, it was nice to see the personality shine through in all of their movements and actions. Zero and One are both nice traveling companions that will bicker along the way and provide some guidance to Boti along the way. I had a wonderful time traveling with the three while they sought out a way to fix a mistake that they made in an attempt to make things better. Gameplay felt smooth and responsive as I maneuvered Boti around from one platform to the next while taking out the various viruses that stood in my way. While there were a few performance issues when things started to get busy, I ran into no major issues along the way that would have prevented me from finishing the game. Boti: Byteland Overclocked is an adorable adventure for anyone looking to play through it alone or with a friend. 

Review: Assassin’s Creed Mirage

Assassin’s Creed Mirage came along at a good time. See, I’ve been playing through the Assassin’s Creed series from the beginning. Stabbing people takes a long time to get old and I was enjoying myself, with Assassin’s Creed Unity being a surprise standout. I only started to burn out when I got to Assassin’s Creed Origins and everything went a bit too open. If this is the way Assassin’s Creed is going, I thought, then I might have to bow out.

But then Assassin’s Creed Mirage came along, claiming to be inspired by the early games in the series and boy was I aboard that train. Regrettably, it’s never as simple as that. Rather, Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a combination of old and new. Bringing together the best parts of both is a fine thing but combination often necessitates compromise. Unfortunately, in this case, there has been a little too much compromise and the end result is something quite shallow.

Assassin's Creed Mirage - Basim overlooks Baghdad

Blood In Baghdad

There was a fairly standard format for opening the older Assassin’s Creed games. A young hero starts off with a reasonably happy life and an unexplained knack for parkour, and he enjoys this for about ten minutes before his teeth are stomped out by the boot of fate. Mirage’s boot-recipient is Basim Ibn Ishaq, in his younger form before the events of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. He begins as a simple street-thief with aspirations to become something more, until a botched robbery tears his whole life to shreds and sends him into the folds of The Hidden Ones, a secretive group of assassins.

These assassins start teaching him the tricks of the trade, which are mostly jumping and stabbing. Both of these elements work quite well. Ubisoft have had many a game to refine the parkour and the result is quite a fluid system. Basim generally went where I wanted him to but I also had to pick my paths carefully, or risk attempting to escape guards by scrabbling up a bare wall. Baghdad is a good place to parkour around too, with the right combo of tall buildings to scale and low buildings to hide on. It’s also pretty, with constant splashes of colour everywhere. There’s a bit of open world around it – courtesy of the newer games – but it’s a tighter map overall and is the better for it.

It’s also full of narrow corridors, low buildings and shadowy corners, which brings us to the stealth. In keeping with the older feel, the stealth has come back to the forefront of gameplay. The hidden blade is back to being an instant kill, huzzah! It’s no longer just a tiny knife that we have to lop a digit off to use. It’s used to best effect in the main assassination missions, where you have to locate ways to draw targets out and kill them without kicking the hornets nest. A highlight was infiltrating an auction and outbidding the city’s treasurer for a single hairpin. It was these missions where I had the most fun with Assassin’s Creed Mirage. I just wish there were more of them – but more on that in a moment.

Assassin's Creed Mirage - Basim fights two guards

Shallow Cuts

An important part of stealth is when you screw up. If you’re me, that’s roughly eighty percent of the time. That leads us to the combat. This is more of a new Assassin’s Creed inspiration, as it requires dodges and parries, rather than just countering everyone to death. It works well, for the most part. Getting spotted in the early game can be almost harrowing, as you get surrounded by mace-wielding thugs. This is how it should be, assassins aren’t built for a frontal assault. That’s not to say it’s hard, though, as I didn’t die once. It’s a little too easy to power yourself up too much through skills and gear upgrades.

Despite a few nice ideas though, Assassin’s Creed Mirage is quite rough around the edges. Take the stealth. I spent one mission taking it slow, stabbing people silently and flicking knives into anyone that gave me a funny look, until I had taken down everyone. Flush with success, I walked back to the objective only to find a handful of guards had instantly respawned, thoroughly breaking the point of stealth. Perhaps it’s a compromise for the bone-headed AI, that get confused if you just run around a corner. The notoriety system didn’t help either – an unwelcome addition of old. If people see you commit a crime, you go up a level – too many and they send in the thugs. This means after every public mission, you have to wander around tearing down posters.

It doesn’t help that Mirage feels a little insubstantial. Take the ‘contracts’. These are a series of short missions that all follow the same format. Escort someone, rescue someone, stab someone. Copy and paste them a few times and off you go. Given the thoughtful, expansive nature of the main missions, I’d hoped for more. The ‘Tales of Baghdad’ have a bit more going for them – I enjoyed one that featured a graverobbing monk – but these are brutally short and feel like they could be used to explore our protagonist more. Even the special ‘collect-all-the-tokens’ gear set can’t muster more of a challenge than ten quick pickpockets. At least tuck them into a dusty tomb somewhere.

Assassin's Creed Mirage - Basim prepares to assassinate a key figure

Writer, Assassinated

The biggest casualty in the meeting of old and new is the writing. Basim himself is the worst example. My measure of a good character is one you can imagine in their off hours. Having a pint down the pub; shouting at the TV. Basim offers us nothing but plot exposition and constant self-motivation. He walks in as an initiate and gets all the jobs handed to him because he’s the protagonist. I found it difficult to connect with him and, as such, it made it harder to connect with anything else. By the end, Basim was almost Disney-esque in his dialogue.

It might have been different had the plot put in much effort. The intriguing and historic city of Baghdad is used as a backdrop to a formulaic plot that we’ve seem quite a few times before. Our street thief evolves into a master assassin as he searches for purpose. A bunch of masked jerks are wreaking havoc and our hero has to sort it out in a very painful and pointy way. Basim just drifts from target to target, doing what he’s told. Then the only interesting part of his character – the dreams of a monstrous Jinni – bring back the bizarre nature of the Assassin’s Creed mythos right at the end. There’s no future element too, though those felt increasingly irrelevant anyway.

I didn’t expect to be so hard on Assassin’s Creed Mirage. The focus on stealth is very welcome and I like the smaller map, as it means less travel time between assasinations. The main missions evoke the excellent missions in earlier titles like Unity, and the city of Baghdad has a lot going for it. It’s just so shallow and awkwardly written. Come to think on it, I remember thinking similar about the original Assassin’s Creed. Perhaps we’ve gone too far back in time. Assassin’s Creed Mirage does a good job of tightening the gameplay bolts but the end result feels as insubstantial as the phenomenon it’s named after.

(Assassin’s Creed Mirage’s Store Page)

College Basketball Betting: Strategies for March Madness and Beyond

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College basketball is a sport beloved by fans across the United States, and it’s not just the on-court action that captures attention. Betting on college basketball has become a popular pastime, especially during the annual spectacular NCAA Division I men’s basketball display, also called the March Madness. This Stake casino review by CryptoManiaks will explore strategies for successful college basketball betting, whether you want to make extra money during March Madness or the regular season.

Understanding College Basketball Betting

Understanding the basics of college basketball betting is essential if you want to profit through betting on any sportsbook. Betting on college basketball primarily involves point spreads, money lines, and over/under bets. Let’s now explain what these principles entail.

Point Spread: This situation is where gamblers make wagers relating to points instead of the spread. In this bet, you predict the lesser team to lose by a few points or win.

Moneyline: Here, you’re simply betting on which team will win the game, with odds associated with each team. Favourites have lower payouts, while underdogs offer higher potential winnings.

Over/Under (Total): In this type of bet, you wager on the total number of points scored by both teams will be over or under a predetermined number set by oddsmakers.

12 Strategies for Wagering on the Upcoming March Madness

The following NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament is scheduled for Tue, 19 Mar 2024 – Monday, 8 Apr 2024. It is essential to work on your betting styles before then to improve your winning chances. Here are some of the top things to keep in mind before placing these basketball bets next year.

1. Research is Key

One of the most critical strategies for successful college basketball betting is thorough research. This includes studying team statistics, player performance, injury reports, and historical matchups. Here are some research tips to consider:

Team Performance: Analyze a team’s recent home and away performance. Teams often perform differently in their home stadiums, significantly impacting the outcome. Teams like the University of Connecticut Huskies, the University of Miami, and The San Diego State University Aztecs have performed well.

Player Injuries: Keep a close eye on injury reports. The absence of a key player can dramatically affect a team’s performance.

Head-to-Head Matchups: Look at how the two teams have fared against each other historically. Some teams have a psychological edge over others.

2. Understand the Tournament Structure

March Madness is known for its unique single-elimination format, where 68 teams compete in a knockout-style tournament. Understanding the structure of the tournament is crucial for effective betting. Early rounds can be unpredictable, making underdog bets more appealing, while in later rounds, the favourites tend to perform better. Be flexible in your betting strategy to adapt to the changing dynamics of the tournament.

3. Focus on Line Movement

Tracking line movements is a fundamental aspect of sports betting. Odds can shift due to various factors, including public sentiment, injuries, or late-breaking news. Keeping an eye on these changes can help you identify value bets. If you notice favourable odds on a team you believe is undervalued, seize the opportunity before the lines adjust.

4. Bet on Prop Bets

In addition to traditional point spreads and money lines, college basketball offers numerous prop bets. These can include player props, team props, and game props. Prop bets allow for diversifying your betting portfolio and capitalizing on specific insights. For example, you can bet on a player’s total points, rebounds, or assists, adding excitement to your wagers.

5. Bankroll Management

One of the most critical aspects of successful sports betting is managing your bankroll wisely. Never chase losses by increasing your stakes beyond your preset limits. Responsible bankroll management ensures you can stay in the game and capitalize on profitable opportunities in the long run.

6. Home Court Advantage Matters

Home-court advantage can have a significant impact on college basketball games. Teams tend to perform better when playing in front of their home crowd. Consider this when evaluating matchups and consider the venue’s importance in your betting decisions.

7. Keep Emotions in Check

Getting emotionally invested in your favourite college basketball team is easy, but emotions can cloud your judgment when betting. Avoid making impulsive bets based on personal preferences. Stick to your research and analysis, and make decisions based on data rather than emotions.

8. Shop for the Best Odds

Not all sportsbooks offer the same odds, so shopping for the best lines is crucial for maximizing your potential profit. Having accounts with multiple sportsbooks allows you to compare odds and choose the most favourable ones.

9. Consider Live Betting

Live betting, or in-play betting, is an exciting way to wager on college basketball. It allows you to place bets during a game as the action unfolds. Live betting can be advantageous if you spot opportunities that weren’t apparent before the game or if you want to hedge your bets based on game flow.

10. Evaluate Coaching and Team Strategy

Coaching and strategic decisions can play a pivotal role in college basketball games. Some coaches have a track record of success in tournament settings, while others may excel during the regular season. Analyze teams’ coaching styles and tendencies to gain insights into their potential performance.

11. Consider Public Betting Trends

While it’s important not to rely solely on public sentiment, monitoring public betting trends can be informative. If a heavily favoured team has a significant portion of public bets, oddsmakers may adjust the lines to balance their liability. This can create opportunities to bet against the public when you believe the odds are inflated due to public perception.

12. Maintain Discipline

In the excitement of March Madness and college basketball season, getting carried away with bets on every game is easy. However, maintaining discipline is vital to long-term success. Focus on games and bets that offer value based on your research and analysis. Avoid overextending yourself with too many bets.

Review: The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame

My video review with footage captured on my Xbox Series X.

The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame is a colourful, child-friendly experience. This safe and easy-to-understand title delivers bite-sized action and a large world to explore. Moreover, it can be enjoyed with friends as you take on each mini-game. Word of warning, however, this is a tedious title for mature gamers. Consequently, I wanted to boil my head every time my kids switched it on.

This cheery and upbeat adventure game was developed by Balio Studios and published by Microids. Furthermore, its focus on modern clichés and super influencers will make your skin crawl. Yet, the mini-game action ensures that adults can enjoy it on a rudimentary level.

The girls take to the water in their canoes.
Take to the water and win the race.

The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame highlights sibling rivalries. 

Competing with your sibling is nothing new. However, The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame takes it to a new standard. The much-loved protagonists are determined to outdo each other. Subsequently, when both are gifted with the latest and greatest tablet, the rivalry hits a new level. 

In the “Sisters” universe, you are no one unless you are followed on “Sis-Tok”. This snazzy social media platform is where the cool kids hang out. Accordingly, the heroes want their piece of the pie. However, they must turn everything into a competition. As such, the action focuses on their desire to become world famous and their online status.

As you can tell, this title is about as deep as the world’s shallowest puddle. Yet, the high-energy characters and easy-to-navigate world paper over this issue. Furthermore, my kids weren’t that bothered, so the developers have obviously got it right for their key demographic. 

Two distinct modes. 

The action is broken down into 2 distinct modes. First, there is the adventure story option. Here, you control the sisters as you find collectables, complete missions, and take on mini-games. Additionally, you must find followers, take photos, and buy new outfits. Thankfully, none of these tasks is challenging, and this makes it perfect for children aged 6 years plus.

The second mode focuses on the mini-games and there are plenty of subcategories to pick from. However, the gameplay is similar regardless of the mode you select. Effectively, you must compete against friends or the AI to win a tournament or a challenge event. The short-lived action was perfect for a casual time. Furthermore, it was genuinely enjoyable to challenge each other to our favourite mini-game.

The hero is pulling off some moves at the skate park.
Hit the park and pull off some crazy moves.

Shortcomings. 

Where The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame falls short is its repetitive action. No matter which character you choose, the story, missions, and mini-games are the same. Furthermore, the collectables are in the same position. Consequently, there is a distinct sense of déjà vu. 

As an adult, this was disappointing! But my kids didn’t seem to mind. In fact, they liked the familiar nature of the gameplay loop and we’re left smiling throughout. What’s more, it helped my youngest to tackle the 2nd playthrough alone as she knew what she was doing.

The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame doesn’t look great. 

Visually, The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame disappointed me. The poor textures, cumbersome camera angles, and repetitive level design left me wanting. However, I liked the character models, the colourful setting, and the freedom to explore. On top of this, the map was simple to understand, and the UI was clean and crisp. As such, this will catch your eye, even if it’s for the wrong reasons. 

The audio had similar flaws. At times, I loved the upbeat soundtrack and the witty one-liners. Yet, the soundbites quickly become painful. Think of the shrill noise of a dentist’s drill, and you get what I mean. Additionally, the sound effects could have been more varied.

Everyone loves a horse race.
2 laps stand between you and victory.

Simple controls that are ruined by the poor camera. 

The control system is pretty decent. The developers have considered their audience and produced a low-key layout. However, the poor camera undermines the simplicity. Unfortunately, the camera twists and turns at the wrong time. Accordingly, you’ll crash into chairs, tables, and would-be followers. This was understandably annoying, and it made it tougher than it should have been. 

The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame has a ridiculous amount of content. There are plenty of missions, mini-games, collectables, and more on offer. Yet, the repetitive nature of the 2nd playthrough taints the end product. However, the ability to find a secret ending was enough to keep me playing.

The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame is great if you are a child.

As an adult, I found this tough to play. Yes, I liked the mini-games, but much of the gameplay is shallow and mindless. However, The Sisters 2 – Road to Fame is perfect for your kids. Thanks to the snappy action, colourful graphics, and easy-to-handle mini-games, your youngsters will adore it. As such, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you find every influencer and become famous? Complete the missions, win every mini-game, and become a “Sis-Tok” star. 

Sony unveils INZONE Buds

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Sony has announced INZONE Buds – new truly wireless gaming earbuds packed with Sony’s renowned audio technology designed to help you win. INZONE Buds offer both PC and console gamers an immersive gaming experience thanks to personalised sound, unrivalled 12 hours of battery life and low latency. 

Accompanying this innovation is the INZONE H5 wireless headset, which offers an astonishing 28 hours of uninterrupted gameplay, ensuring comfort during extended gaming sessions.

Both of these products were born through a collaboration with the renowned esports team, Fnatic, who will celebrate 20 years of operation in 2024 and secured back to back international titles in the VALORANT Champions Tour this year.

Furthermore, the sleek new black version of the highly acclaimed INZONE H9 wireless noise cancelling headset will be launched.

INZONE continues to elevate your PC and PlayStation gaming experience with enhanced audio realism.

INZONE Buds

360 Spatial Sound for Gaming

With 360 Spatial Sound on INZONE Buds you can hear the direction and distance of your opponent so you’ll always be one step ahead of the competition. Through its years of work on industry leading headphone technology, Sony has developed the INZONE Buds to offer a sound field tailored to you. By analysing not only the shape of the outer ear, but also the acoustic characteristics of the ear canal, INZONE Buds offer more precise spatial sound.  

With Sound Field Optimisation, you can create a personalised hearing profile by taking photos of your ears using the 360 Spatial Sound Personaliser smartphone app. Then you can enjoy your game with unmatched spatial accuracy.

INZONE Buds can be optimised for your ear canal with Sound Tone Personalisation. The earbuds play test sounds from driver units and use feedback microphones to measure how the sound fills your ear canal. Based on the acoustic analysis, the sound is then personalised using the INZONE Hub PC application, ensuring a truly own spatial listening experience.

Dynamic Driver X
By faithfully reproducing every sound within the game, from powerful explosions to subtle footsteps, you’ll feel transported into the world of the game. This is made possible through specially engineered high-performance driver unit – Dynamic Driver X – that is designed for wide frequency reproduction, and which is also used with the WF-1000XM5. The diaphragm structure, which utilises different materials for both the dome and edge, ensures minimal distortion and a clear sound quality, delivering an unparalleled level of auditory realism.

Noise cancelling

Sony’s active noise cancellation capabilities mean INZONE Buds block out background noise, so you can focus on the game.

Power up your gaming sessions

The new low power consumption processor L1 provides up to 12 hours of battery life in the headphones, with up to 24 hours total battery life with the charging case. With the industry’s longest battery life, the INZONE Buds are ready to power longer sessions and revolutionise your gaming.

The INZONE Buds come with a USB-C dongle connection that provides latency of less than 30ms, meaning there will be nothing to hold you back. 

Increased comfort, more gaming

With a new design that reduces contact with the ear, you can game for longer with increased comfort.

INZONE Buds are available in two colour options – black and white – so you can choose the one that most suits your gaming style.

Other features

Microphone with AI-based noise reduction: Effectively captures your voice even in noisy environments.

Tap operation: Customisable tap functions.

LE Audio: Enjoy up to 24 hours of battery life when connected to your smartphone.

Smartphone App: Compatible with the Sony | Headphones Connect app.

INZONE H5

With a lightweight build, lower side pressure, and advanced spatial reproduction, the H5 is ready for your longest gaming session. INZONE H5 also features advanced spatial reproduction to keep you focused on the game, as well as a boom microphone to ensure you’re heard, making them the ideal headset in your quest for victory.

INZONE H5 key features

  • Wireless: 2.4GHz wireless connection.
  • 360 Spatial Sound for Gaming: Precision with 3D sound positioning.
  • Endless Comfort: Lightweight at 260g, soft-fit ear pads, and low-pressure design for extended gaming sessions.
  • Crystal-Clear Communication: AI-based noise reduction and bi-directional microphone ensure clear in-game calls.
  • Battery Life: 28 hours wireless.
  • Wired: 3.5 mm plug option.

INZONE H9 Black – a new colour variation

INZONE H9, known for its exceptional noise-cancellation, audio quality, and comfort, is receiving a highly anticipated new Black colour option.  

Refined for Victory. Advised by Fnatic.

Fnatic CEO, Sam Mathews, said: “Our partnership continues to push esports performance to its highest level, gearing up and supporting our professional teams to operate at their greatest potential. One of our first priorities as partners was to bring the extensive competitive experience of our pros to the development of INZONE Buds and INZONE H5.

In particular, our teams advised Sony that INZONE Buds would be an ideal gaming earbud with the battery life and comfort that can withstand even longest gaming sessions, as well as immersive audio our pros can rely on to overcome competition on the global stage.

We are thrilled that our global fan base now has the opportunity to experience our collaborative efforts with these headsets and game with the knowledge they’ve got their favourite pros backing them.”

Pricing

  • INZONE Buds – £180/€200
  • INZONE H5s – £130/ €150
  • INZONE H9 (Black) – £269/€300

News: Akko Prime Day Deals

Akko Prime Day Deals will save you a lump of cash whilst allowing you to buy an incredible gaming keyboard. Alongside this, their products are stunning, well-built, and look amazing in any set-up. Accordingly, you’d be crazy to miss their offers.

There are 10 jaw-dropping products on offer. As such, it doesn’t matter if you want some keycaps, a new keyboard, or switches, there is something for everyone. You’ll adore the striking colours and spectacular materials. However, the whopping 20% discount will impress you more. Therefore, wait no longer and see what great deals are available.

What’s on offer?

Akko 5075B Plus Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.

The black and silver scheme combines the classic elegance of black with the sleek sophistication of silver. Furthermore, Akko 5075B Plus comes with the function row and a multi-media rotary encoder for productivity.

The side RGB light is a versatile feature with adjustable brightness, speed, and effects via hotkeys. Accordingly, it adds vibrant colours to any setting, offering a customisable and captivating lighting experience.

Save 20% RRP £112.69, Akko Prime Day Deals price £90.15. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko 5075B Plus Gaming Keyboard RGB Chroma.

The Akko 5075B Plus keyboard is equipped with a professional Beken multi-mode controller chip and supports Bluetooth modes, 2.4 GHz wireless and USB-C wired. Moreover, the Bluetooth mode supports BT5.0/4.0/3.0 and can be quickly switched between three devices. The 3000mAh high-capacity battery and auto-sleep energy-saving technology ensure a long service life and a stable connection.

The built-in RGB backlight of the keyboard can drive custom RGB effects through the Akko cloud. As such, this can be updated online, and the lights can follow the rhythm of the music.

Save 20% RRP £112.69, Akko Prime Day Deals price £90.15. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko 5075S RGB Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.

Black and gold is a striking combination that brings elegance and luxury. Additionally, with extra novelty keys, this unique colour scheme with gold accents against black backdrops will transform your desk into a sumptuous yet modest and restful space.

All keycaps are made of thick PBT plastic and the legends are made using the double-shot process. This is one of the most durable inscription methods. Consequently, it prevents wear and tear or discolouration with use.

Save 20% RRP £103.69, Akko Prime Day Deals £82.95. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko 5087B Plus 9009 Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.

All keycaps are made of thick PBT plastic and the legends are made through the Double-Shot process, which is one of the most durable inscription methods to prevent wear and tear or discolouration with use. Alongside this, the hot-swap PCB gives you the freedom to change the 3-pin/5-pin switches without soldering.

Save 20% RRP £99.99, Akko Prime Day Deals £79.99. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko 5087B Plus Horizon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.

The keyboard design is inspired by the sunrise at the seashore and has a blue/yellow colour scheme. Subsequently, the Akko “Horizon” keyboard recaptures the sunrise view of the horizon at sea level. It is where the ocean meets the sky and brings beauty and peace.

Save 20% RRP £99.99, Akko Prime Day Deals £79.99. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko 3068B Plus RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.

The long-awaited Akko 3068B Plus in ISO is finally here. This stunning keyboard comes with customisable RGB backlighting. Additionally, this ultra-slim 65% hot-swappable keyboard can be brought anywhere as your mobile workstation with 3 different connection modes.

Hot-swappable – This keyboard features 5-pin hot-swappable (except for Number 1/2 which are 3-pin due to the bezel angle of the Type-C connector) sockets that allow users to swap out the switches they want.

Save 20% RRP £85.69, Akko Prime Day Deals £68.55. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko Keyboard Keycaps MARRS Green 184-key Cherry Profile.

Inspired by the world’s favourite colour Marrs Green. These Akko keycaps utilise the Marrs theme keycaps set in black. Alternatively, you can select the Marrs Green and yellow keycaps.

Double-shot keycaps are extremely durable and resistant to wear even for decades, and the legends are particularly vibrant, and sharp with high contrast.

Save 20% RRP £40.29, Akko Prime Day Deals £32.23. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko Keyboard Keycaps 132 Keys Cherry Profile.

This cool grey gradient theme keycaps set brings a pure and unique typing experience. Thankfully, the Cherry profile keycaps bring the perfect typing experience for gamers and officer workers. Furthermore, each sculpted row is comfortable efficient to use.

Save 20% RRP £38.89, Akko Prime Day Deals £31.11. Available on Amazon UK.

Akko CS Mechanical Keyboard Switches Linear.

Akko POM switches are 3-pin custom switches made for mechanical keyboard DIY enthusiasts. Moreover, you’ll obtain a satisfying typing feeling with more affordable options.

The top, bottom, and stem of the Akko switch are made of POM, a configuration found only in high-end switches. What’s more, the spring is made of nickel-plated stainless steel and the leaf spring is made of copper alloy with gold-plated contacts. Therefore, you’ll enjoy approximately 60 million keystroke lifespan based on lab durability testing.

Save 20% RRP £25.69, Akko Prime Day Deals £17.98. Available on Amazon UK.

Big savings during the Akko Prime Day Deals.

Having an amazing keyboard is a must. Whether you are typing emails or gaming the night away, your keyboard must be sturdy, striking, and comfortable to use. Thankfully, Akko makes some incredibly durable and stunning items. Consequently, you will not be disappointed if you invest. Furthermore, these amazing offers won’t hang about, therefore, don’t delay and invest today.

(More information on Akko can be found here!)

Review: Paleo Pines

Paleo Pines is a cute family-friendly title that’s similar to Harvest Moon. Accordingly, this adorable game is simple, addictive, and sickeningly delightful. Furthermore, it is loaded with dinosaurs and loving townsfolk. As such, there is plenty to see and do.

This life-sim experience was developed by Italic Pig and published by Modus Games. What’s more, it has a healthy dashing of farming, resource gathering, and quests to complete. Additionally, there is a large world to explore and oodles of dinosaurs to discover. As such, once this gets its claws into your skin, it is tough to put down.

The hero is riding a dinosaur across the meadow.
Explore the world on the back of your dinosaur.

Paleo Pines tells a tale as old as time. 

Paleo Pines doesn’t win an award for originality. Unfortunately, its story is as familiar as they come. However, this mattered not, as I adored the simplicity and the laid-back approach. Additionally, you’d be insane not to fall for this dinosaur/farming endeavour.

You are the new owner of a rundown ranch. Consequently, there is plenty to do if you want to call this home. With the help of your pet Parasaurolophus, you will turn this rundown ranch into a dino sanctuary. Additionally, you’ll help the locals with their issues whilst clearing paths and opening new regions. However, this is easier said than done! Subsequently, you must befriend certain dinosaurs if you are to complete every quest and explore every inch of this one-of-a-kind island.

Loads to do but easy to handle.

What makes Paleo Pines so great is its user-friendly gameplay. Every aspect of this kid-friendly title is simple to understand. What’s more, there are loads of side quests to tackle and an easy-to-follow central goal. On top of this, you can decorate your ranch, grow crops, and befriend a large roster of dinosaurs. 

Alongside this, there are 3 seasons to enjoy and several regions to unlock. Accordingly, there are plenty of hidden surprises to discover. Consequently, though the fundamentals are straightforward, there is plenty of content to keep you busy. 

Use your dinosaurs to tend the land in Paleo Pines.
Use the dinosaur to work the land.

Learn the secrets of each dinosaur. 

Where this shines is its variety of dinosaurs. Each of these prehistoric beasts has special skills and abilities. Furthermore, you can use these strengths to run your ranch and explore the world. Each of these creatures comes in different shapes and sizes. Additionally, you must be conscious of pairing the herbivores with the carnivores. 

As you create a trusting relationship with each dinosaur, you can apply a saddle and ride it. Alongside this, you can use each breed for an array of tasks. Some of them smash debris, whilst others destroy rocks or trees. Moreover, you can tend to your crops by spraying water like a hose. 

It was fascinating to find each creature in the wild. Yet, it was much more enjoyable to build trust and discover their many hidden talents. This concept keeps you busy, as the game rarely gives things away. As such, it was always a pleasant surprise to discover each beast’s skills and favourite snacks. 

Paleo Pines is an explosion of colour. 

The developers have used every colour under the rainbow. Accordingly, Paleo Pines arrives in an explosion of colour. Furthermore, the cute art style and interesting world are pleasant to look at and wonderful to explore. On top of this, I loved the look of each dinosaur and the animation was smooth. 

The audio was just as good. The wholesome soundtrack is adorable and the sound effects are lighthearted and non-offensive. Subsequently, this is perfect for younger gamers. My only complaint is the lack of spoken dialogue. It would have been nice if the cutscenes were acted out. However, this wasn’t to be, and you are left with a lot of reading as a consequence. 

Help the locals to earn money.
Gather the ingredients and make some food.

The controls weren’t good enough. 

Though the UI is well-considered and easy to handle, the controls are painfully clumsy. As a result, you’ll run into debris or you’ll struggle to plant crops, hoe the soil, or water your seeds. Thankfully, this wasn’t game-breaking, but it made it unnecessarily tough for youngsters to get hands-on. Accordingly, you will be needed to help any young would-be farmers.

This addictive title is tough to put down! Consequently, it is a cute time sink that will devour your evening. Furthermore, completing every quest and finding all the dinosaurs is no mean feat. As such, you’ll become obsessed with creating a perfect dino ranch and uncovering every secret.

Paleo Pines is a relaxing child-friendly endeavour. 

If you are looking for a fun and non-offensive child-friendly game, then look no further. This vivid and straightforward endeavour is perfect for fans of the genre. Additionally, it is great if you want to treat your kids to a safe and violent-free experience. However, my only gripe was the poor controls. Yet, don’t let this put you off an otherwise fantastic title. Subsequently, I loved playing it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you help the locals and repair your ranch? Befriend the dinosaurs, gather resources, and become one with the community. 

News: Prime Day Deals

I’ve recently highlighted some incredible Amazon Big Deal Days. I loved these offers so much that I’m compelled to highlight some more great deals. These Prime Day Deals will start at midnight on 10/10/2023. As such, I suggest you get in early so that you don’t miss out.

These deals include some great controllers, incredible vacuum cleaners, powerful air fryers, and some amazing Cloud Gaming peripherals. Accordingly, there is something for everyone during these sales. Whether you want something from GameSir, Proscenic, Enabot, Majority, COSORI, Ultenic, or Viofo I suggest you read on.

What Prime Day Deals are available?

GameSir.

GameSir X2 Pro Mobile Game Controller for Android Type-C.

Specially designed for Xbox Cloud Gaming on Android smartphones. Users can enjoy mobile games to the fullest with GameSir X2 Pro. The X2 Pro perfects the mobile gaming experience beyond a console by making it happen anywhere, anytime, to anyone.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £79.99 – NOW £63.99 on Amazon UK.

GameSir X3 Type-C Mobile Game Controller.

The X3 Type-C Mobile Game Controller is specially designed for Android phones, compatible with mobile phones with a length of 110-179mm, with X3, you can play all controller-supported Android games from Fortnite to Minecraft.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £99.99 – NOW £79.99 on Amazon UK.

GameSir G7 Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows 10/11.

With 2 swappable paint-friendly faceplates, the G7 controller provides effortless and endless customisation, with GameSir Nexus software that enables users to create controller profiles by mapping buttons, adjusting sticks and trigger zones, and configuring vibration levels.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £49.99 – NOW £39.99 on Amazon UK.

GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & Windows 10/11, Plug and Play Gaming Gamepad.

The pulse-type vibration trigger motors and asymmetric vibration grip motors deliver immersive tactile feedback. Furthermore, it has precise controls because of its Hall Joysticks and Triggers.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £49.99 – NOW £39.99 on Amazon UK.

GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Controller for Switch/PC/iOS/Android.

The T4 Pro supports Android phones and tablets, Windows XP/ 7/8/10, macOS, Apple Arcade, MFi Games, and Switch Games. Additionally, the asymmetric vibrating motor with 5-speed levels enhances immersion in games. Alongside this, the RGB Backlighting creates a stunning LED backlight on the ABXY buttons.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £35.99 – NOW £28.79 on Amazon UK.

GameSir LeadJoy VX2 AimBox Game Consoles Keyboard and Mouse Adapter.

The GameSir LeadJoy VX2 keyboard and mouse converter enables players to control PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox One console games through the converter, break through the limitations and experience the control of a keyboard and mouse in the console game, with the high-precision operation and greatly improve accuracy.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £49.99 – NOW £39.99 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic.

Proscenic T31 Air Fryer Oven, 15L Digital Air Fryer Oven.

The Proscenic T31 Air Fryer Oven has a large 15L capacity, meaning that it can cook from a single serving to a 5-person family meal and even roast a whole chicken. With TurboAir technology, which is 7 times more effective than normal air circulation technology, Proscenic T31 reduces 85% of fat contained in food. The air fryer also offers 360° air circulation that heats food evenly, makes food tender on the inside and crisp on the outside, increasing cooking efficiency by 30% while keeping nutrients well.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £159 – NOW £118.15 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner.

The Proscenic P12 cordless vacuum cleaner has a 400W brushless motor that provides strong suction for the motorised roller brush to efficiently pick up dirt and debris from the floor. The V-shaped guiding bristle works with the internal comb to reduce hair tangling effectively and deliver powerful performance with less maintenance required. It provides 33kPa strong suction and four suction modes so it can suit different cleaning needs.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £169 –NOW £139 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic T22 Air Fryer.

With the aid of TurboAir Technology, which is 7 times more effective than regular air circulation technology, Proscenic T22 reduces 90% of fats contained in foods. The air fryer offers a 360° Steric Air Circulation that heats the food evenly, increasing the cooking efficiency by 30% while the nutrients are well retained. Subsequently, the foods are given a friable, brown colour, making them look mouth-watering. Using the Proscenic APP, you can easily control your air fryer and schedule and monitor the cooking process.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £89 – NOW £59 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic T21 Smart Wi-Fi Air Fryer 5.8.

Control the air fryer with Proscenic Home APP, find your menu, schedule the cooking, adjust and monitor the cooking process, and customise your own recipes, which are very easy and convenient to operate. The App provides tens of presets and allows you to customise your own recipes and save the corresponding program on the app.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £89 – NOW £59 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic X1 3 in 1 Smart Robot Vacuum.

Proscenic’s new X1 3-in-1 smart robot vacuum cleaner can both vacuum and mop floors simultaneously. Featuring a Sonic mop, PathPro™ Laser-Assisted navigation and large suction power, the X1 provides an impressive cleaning experience for the modern home.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £369 – NOW £269 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic 850T Self Charging Robot Vacuum Cleaner.

Equipped with a high-quality brushless motor, it can easily pick up dust, pet hairs, and dirt without any effort. Suction is adjustable in 3 levels to meet your different needs. A low profile of 2.8in design ensures effective cleaning and access to every hard-to-reach corner and the bottom of the furniture.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £189 – NOW £159 on Amazon UK.

Proscenic M9 3-in-1 Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Mop.

The Proscenic M9 robot vacuum cleaner boasts strong 4500Pa suction power to easily pull in dirt, debris and pet hairs. The powerful dual pressurised rotating mops work 120r/min with up to 6N downward pressure to tackle all sticky and stubborn stains.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £499 – NOW £399 on Amazon UK.

Enabot.

Enabot EBO AIR – Next-generation social companion robot.

Meet the all-new Enabot EBO AIR Robot from Enabot. This updated version of the whole home IP camera is the perfect companion for your pets and family members if you’re required to leave home for extended periods of time. Schedule a time and using auto-cruise & motion detection the Enabot EBO AIR Pet Robot will set off with its 1080P HD night-vision enabled camera and 2-way audio, automatically alerting you to anything suspicious in its FOV directly through the free Ebo App.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £229 – NOW £159 on Amazon UK.

Enabot EBO SE Pet & Home Security Camera and Robot.

Enabot is committed to creating a new era of companion robots, letting love never be absent. No longer limited by space and angle, you can remotely control the direction and speed of EBO SE movement via EBO APP, compact and freely movable indoor design allows you to view your home anytime, anywhere.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £119 – NOW £79 on Amazon UK.

COSORI.

COSORI Electric Pressure Cooker 5.7L.

The COSORI Electric Pressure Cooker 5.7L comprises 50 Recipes, a 9-in-1 Multi Cooker, Steamer, Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Sauté Pan, Yoghurt and Cake Maker, Sous vide, Stock Pot, Food Warmer, Ceramic Non-Stick Coating.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £99.99 – NOW £84.99 on Amazon UK.

COSORI Rice Cooker & Steamer.

The 1.8L Rice Cooker can make delicious rice with just the touch of a button. A kitchen staple, it helps larger households to create healthy, quality meals for their families with ease. Featuring 17 functions, it allows all types of rice to be cooked to the perfect texture. 

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £119.99 – NOW £95.99 on Amazon UK.

COSORI Small Air Fryer 2L.

The Air Fryer has a simple digital display and touch buttons. Furthermore, it has a compact size and fast cooking technology that cooks up to 53% faster than conventional ovens. Moreover, the power is only 900W, saving up to 70% on your electricity bill.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £69.99 – NOW £49.99 on Amazon UK.

COSORI Air Fryer 4.7L, 9-in-1 Compact Air Fryers Oven.

It has rapid heat circulation technology, max 230℃, faster cooking, and consumes up to 55% less electricity. On top of this, it is designed for 1-4 people, which is enough to cook 12 chicken wings, 2.25kg of whole chicken or 1.8kg of chips.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £109.99 – NOW £74.99 on Amazon UK.

COSORI Air Fryer 5.5L Capacity.

This Air Fryer is top-rated in tests and trusted by 50,000+ real users and major social media influencers. Moreover, COSORI holds the exclusive Even Heating Technology. Consequently, it cooks 50% faster than a conventional oven, saving up to 55% on your energy bills.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £109.99 – NOW £79.99 on Amazon UK.

COSORI 5.5L Smart Air Fryer Oven with App Control.

Save up to 55% on Energy Bills: COSORI is committed to providing a cheaper way of cooking. As such, you’ll enjoy half the oven time and less electricity usage. Additionally, remotely control your fryer through a free VeSync app, and enjoy control from anywhere to adjust and monitor the progress of your meals.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £119.99 – NOW £89.99 on Amazon UK.

Majority.

Majority Superstar Kids Headphones.

Every inch of the Majority Superstar Kids Headphones is constructed to deliver a top-of-the-range sound. Delivering a transformative listening experience for gaming, music, TV and more, the over-ear design allows the headphones to reproduce a wide range of frequencies. The design is perfect for the type of sound featured in many children’s media, as the sound quality never fails to deliver engaging audio. 

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £14.95 NOW – £12.56 on Amazon UK.

Majority Tru Bio True Wireless Earbuds  

The Majority Tru Bio true wireless earbuds are designed with both the environment and audio quality in mind. Delivering exceptional sound with a sustainable design, the earbuds and charging case are eco-biodegradable and the 13mm bio-cellulose speaker drivers are made from certified compostable plastic so that it is a product to enjoy, be used and eventually recycled without impacting the environment.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £34.96 NOW – £29.36 on Amazon UK.

Majority Tru 1 Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds.

The Majority Tru 1 earbuds are a powerful pair of ‘true wireless stereo’ in-ear headphones featuring the latest in audio technology and compatible with household items such as a phone, tablet, MP3 player, laptop or PC. Enhanced digital sound quality is designed, tested and perfected in Cambridge UK.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £19.95 – NOW – £16.76 on Amazon UK.

Majority RS1 Condenser Microphone.

The RS1 Condenser Microphone is a high-performance microphone designed for studio and live performance use. It delivers professional-quality sound recording, making it ideal for recording vocals, instruments, and more. The versatile design allows for use in multiple recording scenarios, while the cardioid pickup pattern focuses on capturing sound directly in front of the microphone. The RS1 also comes with a shock mount and carrying case for easy transport and setup.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £42.96 – NOW £36.08 on Amazon UK.

Majority Sierra Plus 2.1.2 – 400w Dolby Atmos Soundbar and Subwoofer. 

Upgrade the audio experience with state-of-the-art sound technology. Feel and hear sounds bouncing off the ceiling and walls in any room for an immersive listening experience when connecting via HDMI ARC from a Dolby Atmos-enabled device. Feel music, TV or games like never before with this true Dolby Atmos soundbar and powerful wireless subwoofer.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £229 – NOW £192.36 on Amazon UK.

Ultenic.

Ultenic FS1 Auto Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner.

FS1 is a powerful cordless vacuum with a 450W digital motor and a maximum suction power of 30000 Pa. Furthermore, it has 4-speed modes (Low/High/Auto/Turbo) for your daily cleaning needs. Additionally, the touchscreen design allows you to start the vacuum without having to keep pressing the button. In Auto mode, it will automatically increase suction power on carpets; in Turbo mode, it runs at maximum power and suction level for up to 10 seconds for deep cleaning.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £379.99 – NOW £239.99 on Amazon UK.

Ultenic T10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Mop.

After each cleaning, your T10 robot vacuum automatically empties itself into the self-empty base with a 3L enclosed disposable dust bag, which holds up to 60 days’ worth of dirt and debris and captures 99.7% of fine dust particles. Dust stays out of sight and your hands stay clean. Alongside this, with the Ultenic APP, you can control the robot vacuums and schedule cleaning (2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Needed). You can also quickly start and stop cleaning with voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant. The remote included in the package meets the most frequently used cleaning features.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £339.99 – NOW £288.99 on Amazon UK.

Ultenic D5S Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Mop.

Ultenic D5s Pro is a 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop that is designed to keep your floors clean without lifting a finger. You can freely choose the vacuum-only mode for hardwood and carpet cleaning. Subsequently, in multiple passes, no dust will be missed. In 2-in-1 mode, it powerfully vacuums and mops in one go, leaving your home looking spotless.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £189.99 – NOW £128.00 on Amazon UK.

Ultenic K10 Smart Air Fryer.

Get hotter, faster, and crispier results with Dual-Air Technology by Ultenic K10 Air Fryer, cook your food up to 4 times faster than an oven and reduce your food’s oil content by up to 90%, preserving more nutrients in your food than other types of cooking such as deep-frying and roasting. Additionally, it feeds up to 5 people and can fit an entire rotisserie chicken. Consequently, its 5L capacity is an ideal choice for a family and fits perfectly on any kitchen countertop.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £69.99 – NOW £59.99 on Amazon UK.

Viofo. 

Viofo A139 Pro 2CH.

A139 PRO 2CH with 2023 revolutionary STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensor on the front camera, the 4K resolution is superior to most 4K dash cameras. Featuring real 4K UHD Dual Channel Front and Rear, the dual dash camera is capable of recording videos in 4K front (2160P@30fps) and rear 1080P resolutions. It captures the license plate information clearly in motion both day and night.

PRIME DAY DEALS – RRP £329.99 – NOW £263.99 on Amazon UK.

Loads of tech available.

I am impressed with the tech on offer. With massive savings and some big-name brands to choose from, you can get plenty of new equipment without breaking the bank. Furthermore, these deals won’t last forever, so don’t miss out on your favourite item.

(More information on Amazon can be found here!)

News: PowerA Prime Day Deals

PowerA Prime Day Deals are here to save you some big bucks. I’m a massive fan of PowerA and I love their excellent products and incredible customer service. What’s more, they offer great value for money and come loaded with high-end tech. Accordingly, you won’t be disappointed no matter what product you buy.

However, not every piece of tech is on offer. Consequently, I’m highlighting the 5 deals that caught my eye. Whether you want a case or a controller for your Nintendo Switch, or a controller for your Xbox One, there is something for you. On top of this, these excellent products will catch your eye and will impress the pickiest of gamers.

What’s on offer?

PowerA Wireless Nintendo Switch Controller – Legend of Zelda Sworn Protector.

Officially licensed by Nintendo, the PowerA Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch looks amazing and plays even better. Each controller features gorgeous designs and is engineered to ensure optimal in-game performance and reliability. Program two mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons on the fly and enjoy hours of gaming with super-comfortable ergonomics.

Game for up to 30 hours with new alkaline AA batteries* or add your own rechargeable AA batteries. Backed by the PowerA Two-Year Limited Warranty. Can be used when the Nintendo Switch is docked or undocked. Does not support HD rumble, IR, motion control, or Amiibo NFC. *Multiple variables affect battery life estimate.

Save 20% RRP $42.74, PowerA Prime Day Deals price $33.99. Available on Amazon.

PowerA Protection Case for Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite – Mario Pop.

Take your Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite on the go with this sturdy, compact case designed to fit the console in handheld mode. Inside you’ll find a felt lining, a screen-protector flap with storage for nine game cards, a logo tag and a zippered mesh storage pocket. This portable case gives you the freedom to have fun on the go with your Nintendo Switch. Wherever. Whenever.

Save 30% RRP $19.98, PowerA Prime Day Deals price $13.99. Available on Amazon.

PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S – Black.

This PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is officially licensed for Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One with added features to enhance your gaming experience. Check out the new Share button for in-game screen captures or video clips, or quickly adjust the volume or mute just the chat channel in your wired stereo headset via the conveniently located Headset Dial. Gain a competitive advantage by mapping two Advanced Gaming Buttons on the fly, plus get all the features you expect like dual rumble motors, standard ergonomic layout, 3.5mm stereo headset jack and precision-tuned analog sticks with anti-friction rings for smoother motion.

For style and comfort, the metallic D-Pad and diamond-textured grip make this controller feel truly amazing. Our wired controller with a 10ft (3m) USB cable ensures a lag-free gaming session and lets you play until you drop without worrying about batteries. Finally, we reinforce our commitment to quality with two years of support, ensuring you can trust PowerA products to perform.

Save 29% RRP $32.58, PowerA Prime Day Deals price $22.99. Available on Amazon.

PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller – Seafoam Fade, Gamepad, Wired Video Game Controller, Gaming Controller, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One.

This PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is officially licensed for Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One with added features to enhance your gaming experience. Check out the new Share button for in-game screen captures or video clips, or quickly adjust the volume or mute just the chat channel in your wired stereo headset via the conveniently located Headset Dial. Gain a competitive advantage by mapping 2 advanced gaming buttons on the fly, plus get all the features you expect like dual rumble motors, standard ergonomic layout, 3.5mm stereo headset jack and precision-tuned analogue sticks with anti-friction rings for smoother motion.

For style and comfort, the metallic D-Pad and diamond-textured grip make this controller feel truly amazing. Our wired controller with a 10ft (3m) USB cable ensures a lag-free gaming session and lets you play until you drop without worrying about batteries. Finally, we reinforce our commitment to quality with 2-years of support, ensuring you can trust PowerA products to perform.

Save 39% RRP $37.99, PowerA Prime Day Deals price $22.99. Available on Amazon.

PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S – White.

Achieve brilliant gameplay with the amazing PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller for the Xbox Series X|S. Officially licensed by Xbox, this one-of-a-kind gamepad gives you brilliant power and LED customisation. Dial-in your favourite colour combination with vivid colours, a range of shades, across three distinct Spectra Zones. Plus, super cool LED effects enable “Breathing” or “Solid” Modes.

Of course, you’ll gain a competitive advantage with pro-style features like two mappable buttons you can program on-the-fly, and three-way trigger locks for super-precise throws. A 3.5mm stereo audio jack with a one-touch mic mute and an easy-to-use Share Button helps you stay connected with fellow gamers. Powerful dual rumble motors give you an incredibly immersive gaming experience that you can feel.

Save 33% RRP $44.99, PowerA Prime Day Deals price $29.99. Available on Amazon.

PowerA Prime Day Deals shouldn’t be missed.

Investing in new tech can be an expensive endeavour. However, thanks to the PowerA Prime Day Deals, this needn’t be the case. Luckily, there are some incredible bits on offer that will impress you. Subsequently, don’t delay as these incredible deals won’t last forever.

(More information on PowerA can be found here!)

Win a Code for Scorn on PS5

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We have a code for Scorn on PS5 to give away.

Scorn is one of 2022’s most recognizable horror titles. Hurling players into a H.R. Giger-inspired labyrinth of meat and machinery, players must find their way to salvation. The monstrous inhabitants and twisted logic of this world will have to be mastered if freedom is to be earned. Countless horrors await those who brave the world of Scorn

How to enter to win

We have a PS5 code for Scorn to give away, you can enter below:

Win a code for Scorn on PS5

The contest closes at midnight on 22nd October 2023.

The contest is only open to our UK readers – sorry!

A Closer Look at An Apothecary of Art

As we are now on the run up to Christmas, we take a closer look at An Apothecary of Art.

Take a transformative journey to improve your mental wellbeing with An Apothecary of Art, the inspiring debut book from social media sensation Ravenous Butterflies. Enjoy a sumptuous collection of 80 paintings and uplifting quotes to lift the spirit, calm the mind and heal the soul. 

Within these pages you will find both the works of world-renowned masters and the paintings of lesser-known talents, paired with uplifting thoughts from great poets, writers and thinkers.

This illumination of the power of art as a source of wellbeing is modern yet timelessly beautiful – the perfect book to dip into to lift your spirits. 

Ravenous Butterflies is the online brainchild of artist Lisa Azarmi and was designed to provide a safe sanctuary for emotional wellbeing. An Apothecary of Art is a soothing blend of 80 beautiful paintings and inspiring, comforting and uplifting quotes to lift the spirit, calm the mind and heal the soul. 

The contents page is artfully divided into 24 emotional journeys that suggest routes in which to navigate the book to explore different feelings along the way, and to provide comfort and solace in difficult times. Within these pages you will find both the works of world-renowned masters and the paintings of lesser-known talents paired with uplifting thoughts from great poets, writers and thinkers. A biographical section on the featured artists will provide context on your new favourite finds.

This inspiring debut collection from Ravenous Butterflies features 80 exquisite works of art from the likes of Modigliani, Hasui Kawase, and Thomas Cooper Gotch with accompanying quotes from inspirational voices including Sappho, Pablo Neruda and Harriet Tubman. This illumination of the power of art as a source of wellbeing is modern yet timelessly beautiful – the perfect book to dip into to lift your spirits.

An Apothecary of Art is available now priced around £18.99 and would make a wonderful Christmas present.

You can order from here batsfordbooks.com