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How movies and games have inspired other industries

News

Christopher John

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Feb 27, 2023

How movies and games have inspired other industries

We all love to settle down to a good movie or play the latest video games, and quite often our experiences can get us emotional. That’s because movies and games have ways of impacting us by making us see things from different perspectives or by taking us on an adventure of self-discovery.

But movies and games don’t just impact us, they in turn influence many industries around the world. Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the ways that movies and games have inspired those outside of their own industries.

Introducing new technology

There are so many sci-fi films out there from Star Trek to Dune and you may be surprised that these films have inspired new technologies. What may well have seemed like futuristic tech at one point in time such as mobile phones, virtual reality, and drones, is now technology that we use every day on a regular basis.

We’re not quite yet at the stage of seeing flying cars and teleporting from one location to another, but who knows what technology films and video games will encourage next.

Source: Pixabay

Lots more entertainment

Many of our favourite movies and games have also gone on to provide a load of extra entertainment long after we’ve watched or played them. The hit video game The Last of Us was recently made into a TV series and the popular anime game Persona went on to see a musical produced based on its story.

Movies and games have also gone on to influence other types of entertainment in industries such as iGaming. You can play popular slot games like Rainbow Riches at Buzz Bingo, which is partly inspired by the leprechaun in the iconic film Darby O’Gill and the Little People. The game includes the aesthetics and iconography inspired by this film’s interpretation of the folklore character, and you’ll have to make the most of their bonus offers if you want to walk away with his pot of gold. And that’s just one example of many, with an abundance of online casino games taking inspiration from classic films like Terminator and video games like Cyberpunk 2077.

Call in the Fashion Police

Fashion, is of course, all about personal taste. Sometimes we like what we see, other times we think it belongs in the trash. But did you know that in addition to themed clothes that show iconic characters and phrases from our favourite movies and games, there have been many trends set because of them too?

Whether it be for fancy dress purposes or more casual outings, there are many real-world fashion trends that have had their roots in movies over the years. Just look at the impact the likes of Grease had on the world following its release in 1978. And it’s not the only movie that has had an impact on fashion with the likes of Blade Runner, The Great Gatsby, and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World just to name a few.

We’re not just talking about clothes either. That last film starring Michael Cera and Mary Elizabeth Winstead inspired so many young people to dye their hair in bright colours.

Girl lying down wearing sunglasses with blue hair inspired by movies and games

Source: Pixabay

Closing thoughts on the impact of movies and games

As we can see, evidenced by everything we have spoken about above, movies and games have had a wide-reaching impact on many people around the world. From influencing technological development to inspiring the latest fashion trends, our favourite forms of entertainment have left quite a legacy behind them.

Review: Anker Soundcore VR P10 Earbuds

James Refelian

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Feb 26, 2023

0

<strong>Review: Anker Soundcore VR P10 Earbuds</strong>

If you’ve followed any of my reviews recently, you’ll know I love VR. So when a VR accessory comes along that can improve the experience, I’m intrigued. This time, it’s the Anker Soundcore VR P10 earbuds. While standalone VR headsets are great, they lack earphones out of the box. Step up Anker, who has developed a unique earbuds solution aimed at VR headsets. While the advertising states explicitly that they’re for the Meta Quest 2, using the earbuds is far more versatile.

Design

The case is a simple pebble shape with a nice matte-white finish and an embossed logo. Featuring one button on the back and an LED light on the front. The case has a magnetic closure, so it feels secure when carrying it around. Inside the case, the earbuds light up when opening and again feel secured by the magnets. I particularly like the design that the lid of the case has a spot for the dongle to attach magnetically. It’s simple but very effective. The dongle can be a bit fiddly to remove, so be careful!

The earbuds come with three sets of small, medium, and large tips and fit well in the ear canal. While wearing them during extended VR gameplay, they didn’t fall out, and I wasn’t concerned about the fit or ear fatigue.

Compatibility

One of the best features of the Anker Soundcore VR P10 earbuds is the wide range of compatibility. While one of the first ‘Meta approved’ solutions for Quest 2, the earbuds will just about work with any device that offers USB-C or Bluetooth connectivity.

In my testing, I could use the earbuds with my PS5, Nintendo Switch, PICO 4, Steam Deck, Android Phone and Windows PC. With the dongle, it’s super easy to plug in and go. I find the low latency much better when using the earbuds this way and would always recommend a dongle connection for gaming. It was also handy to keep the earbuds connected to my phone via Bluetooth; the dual connectivity works well. This meant that if a call came in during a play session, I didn’t have to scramble around to try and find another headset to connect to it.

Pros and Cons Of the Anker Soundcore VR P10

PROS	CONS
+ Great sound quality	– Lacks active noise cancellation
+ Multiple connectivity options/compatibility	– The lows could be stronger
+ Dual connection support	– Microphone is average
+ Great use of magnets in the case	– Charging case has no water resistance
+ USB-C pass-through on the Dongle
+ Gamery RGB lighting
+ Earbuds have IPX4 water resistance
+ Supporting app for easy use

The Details

Using the earbuds was a good experience, with the excellent sound quality overall. The low latency was appreciated during gaming, and including a dongle makes connectivity easy. This is especially the case with, for example, my Windows PC, where Bluetooth connections have never been the most reliable. Technically, the earbuds can connect to several dongles and cycle through them in the app.

Another great feature of the Anker Soundcore VR P10 earbuds is the app. Its simple UI makes it easy to configure sound profiles and balance to taste; however, one of the downsides to these earbuds is the lack of depth in the lows.

This headset is touted as a premium option for gaming. With much gaming now on the go (Switch, Steam Deck… standalone VR if you’re brave), active noise cancellation would have been a handy feature, but sadly the earbuds don’t feature this. While I don’t often play online games that require voice chat, I did take a few calls during play sessions, and the feedback I got was that the microphone wasn’t the best in clarity. As such, if you need your teammates to be able to hear you perfectly every time, this might not be the headset for you.

While playing games on multiple platforms, or even using them with my Phone, and PC to watch content or listen to music/podcasts, I found them to be of fantastic quality. The latency was barely noticeable with each connection and better than some wireless headphones I’ve used. The 11mm driver combined with the codec results in a good, wide sound that feels full and provides decent details.

Regarding battery life, the earbuds last for around six hours, and the case will give you three total charges, which is fantastic for extended play sessions across multiple devices.

What’s in the Box?

The unboxing experience is satisfying. When you open the small-sized box, you’re presented with the charging case and earbuds. Removing them and lifting the top layer, you’ll find the cable and ear tips. General literature completes the package.

In the box, you get:

Charging Case x1
VR P10 Earbuds x2
USB-C Dongle x1
S/M/L Ear Tips x6
USB-C Cable
Instructions and Literature

Anker Soundcore VR P10 Specification

11mm drivers
Ultra-low latency (less than 30ms)
IPX4 waterproof (for the earbuds only; the charging has no IPX rating)
6 hours of usage per charge with a fully charged case providing three full charges
Multi-connectivity – Dongle and Bluetooth
Bluetooth, 5.2 with LC4/SBC,AAC

Final Thoughts on Anker Soundcore VR P10 Earbuds

Overall, the Anker Soundcore VR P10 earbuds offer fantastic quality for the price with a versatile use case. With multi-connectivity and the dongle, these ultra-low latency earbuds are fantastic for gamers on any platform, especially those using VR headsets. With a simple design, some added gamer elements and a good build, if you’re in the market for earphones, I would recommend them. This is despite lacking a little on the lows and with the sub-par microphone.

The Anker Soundcore VR P10 Earbuds are available now from Amazon for £79.99/$79.00.*

To find out more, you can view the Anker website.

* Price correct at the time of publication

Review: Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart

Daniel Waite

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Feb 26, 2023

0

As a parent, I’m very conscious of the games my children play. Consequently, I want them to explore a safe space without too much violence, gore, or profanities. As such, whenever Outright Games publish a new title, I know I can’t go wrong. This family-friendly publisher has delivered some amazing child-friendly games. Recently, it released Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart and my kids were extremely excited about getting started.

Developed by 3DClouds and published by Outright Games, this is a child-friendly racing title. What’s more, it has been created by the same team behind Blaze and the Monster Machines: Axle City Racers. As such, if you have played this game, you’ll know exactly what to expect. This lighthearted experience is colourful, loud, and easy to play. Yet, if you ramp up the difficulty, the AI will push adults and experienced players throughout. Accordingly, it isn’t as easy as Blaze and this was a great move.

The competitors race towards Giganto. — Race past Giganto.

Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart has no story.

Disappointingly, the developers have incorporated no story at all. This was a shame, as the TV series has plenty of excellent characters and fun and quirky storylines. Unfortunately, the focus is purely on racing and I think this was a missed opportunity. However, let us not dwell on this point and move on to bigger and better things.

The gameplay revolves around 2 key modes. You may opt for a single race where you are free to choose any unlocked course or character. Alternatively, you can explore the adventure mode and take on 3 unique competitions. If you select the latter option, you will undertake 5 different races and if you win, you’ll unlock new skins for each character and a playable racer. On the other hand, you can take on friends and family and challenge one another to a race around your favourite track.

Get in your karts and start the race. — Time to start the race.

It’s all about the children.

What makes Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart so perfect is its child-friendly approach. Not only does the gameplay incorporate the main characters from the TV series, but the action can be as easy or as tough as you’d like. Accordingly, the developers have used an auto drive facility to help younger children learn the fundamentals.

This may seem like a silly idea, but if you have children, then you’ll know that it’s a godsend. Whenever you game with little people, the frustration of explaining the controls taints the experience. Yet, Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart overcomes this in the simplest of fashions. By allowing very young children to automate their vehicles, they learn the tracks and the gameplay without worrying about steering or acceleration. However, older players can choose their level of assistance and remove the auto driving at any point.

Alongside this, the tracks are simple to race around, and each has alternative routes and hidden pathways. This was another great move, as it allowed each player to explore each course as they wished. On top of this, there are power-ups to collect, skills to use, and ramps to increase your speed. What’s more, each race has its own perils and at times, you’ll have to avoid the attention of the big beast “Giganto”.

Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart lacks a modern polish.

3DClouds has created a super colourful world that captures the aesthetics of the TV series perfectly. However, the finish isn’t as polished as you’d hope to see. Furthermore, it doesn’t push modern consoles and this may disappoint some players. Yet, my children didn’t care, and the game performs admirably, whether you play it alone or with up to 3 others. Alongside this, the stage design is varied and well-considered, the UI is easy to understand, and each of the characters looks great. For a child-focused experience, the developers have done a great job.

The visuals are complemented by the in-keeping audio. With upbeat music, loud sound effects, and excellent soundbites, Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart gets it just right. Furthermore, if your children love the TV series, they’ll smile at the witty one-liners and the loud roar of “Giganto”. From an adult’s perspective, the audio is somewhat tedious, as the music is repetitive and the dialogue is limited. Yet, this isn’t designed for adults, so my complaints are pretty much mute.

Race up to 3 others in Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart. — Take on your friends in split screen.

Brilliant controls.

This isn’t as responsive as a serious racing title, but it doesn’t have to be. Unlikely its serious counterparts, Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart focuses on a fun experience. Accordingly, there isn’t the need to understand the balance of your kart, the acceleration, or any advanced elements. Instead, the action revolves around fun and a straightforward experience. As such, its simple approach ensures that the controls are responsive and easy to learn.

Where this is unfortunately lacking is the longevity and replay value. Once you unlock every track, skin, and character, there is little else to do. This was disappointing but understandable for a child-friendly game. If the developer added some additional modes, then this would improve the overall experience.

Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart is an excellent game for all the family.

Getting the right game for the family to enjoy isn’t an easy task. However, if you have young children, then they will adore this title. My munchkins couldn’t get enough of the colourful visuals, the loud audio, and the excellent stage design. What’s more, the driving aids make sure that arguments are kept to a minimum, and that the action is balanced. Accordingly, it was a big thumbs up from my tribe and I recommend that you buy it here! Do you fancy a race around Cretacia? Pick your dinosaur, get to the start line, and compete to be the victor.

Review: Apex Backpack from Troubadour

Andrew Edney

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Feb 26, 2023

0

Here we review the Apex Backpack from Troubadour – spoiler, its great!

Lightweight waterproof fabric, lining & zippers keep your gear dry
Padded section for 17-inch laptop
Multiple internal pockets for easy organisation
Zipped external pocket & two retractable bottle holders
Breathable back panel & ergonomic padded shoulder straps for comfort
Trolley sleeve slides over a suitcase handle

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The Apex Backpack from Troubadour looks really good and is made from a waterproof fabric so it will keep the contents of the bag dry, even in the rain! And even the zippers are waterproof.

The backpack is very lightweight, and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. It is very easy to adjust for maximum comfort.

There are multiple pockets on the outside and inside of the bag for just about everything you want to store, include bottles with the two retractable bottle holders! There is enough room to use it for work or play.

The inside of the backpack is padded which will keep everything safe and secure. It can hold a laptop up to 17″.

There is also a trolley sleeve that you can use with a suitable suitcase to make it easier to carry.

The Apex Backpack from Troubadour is a fantastic backpack and one I will be using for a long time to come!

The Apex Backpack from Troubadour is available now priced around £245 and comes in either Black or Navy and comes with a 5 year guarantee.

You can learn more and purchase the Apex Backpack from the Troubadour website.

News: Flexispot Spring Sale

News

Daniel Waite

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Feb 25, 2023

0

Winter has nearly passed, and spring is just around the corner. Accordingly, manufacturers know that people will be cleaning their office spaces and looking for fresh equipment. As such, this can be an expensive time, as office furniture can be a costly investment. Thankfully, though, the team at Flexispot is hoping to alleviate some of that burden with their Flexispot Spring Sale.

During March 2023, Flexispot is running a massive up to 33% off marked price on most of their goods. This offer is available every Wednesday for the whole of March. As such, you can get huge savings on some of their market-leading chairs and standing desks. I’m not one for pushing sales, but we have been fortunate to review many of their products, and we absolutely love them.

What our reviews say about Flexispot.

Flexispot Sit2Go 2-in-1 Fitness Chair.

So the Flexispot Sit2GO 2-in-1 Fitness Chair is two things in one – it’s a chair and it’s an exercise bike (but without handlebars). The idea is that you can sit at a desk or a table (or anywhere else for that matter) and get some exercise in whilst you are doing work, reading a book, well basically doing whatever it is you would be doing if you were just sitting down.

Flexispot Standing Desk E8.

The desk is really comfortable to use, has a lot of space and is really easy to position however you want it. My only criticism, and that’s also a strong word, is that there are two round holes in the desktop for cables but there are no caps provided so there are just big holes there which slightly detract from how good the desktop actually looks. You can buy caps easily for a few pounds that match, but it would have been better to have included them in the box rather than having to source from a third party.

Flexispot Standing Desk Pro E7 Premium.

The desk has a smart cable management system that organizes cables. There is a large groove where you can tuck in the cables and wires within the frame for a tidy desk. Doing so will avoid any accidents like tripping or slipping that might occur from having a messy floor with loose cables. Plus, organised cables will help you to distinguish the correct wires of the gadgets that you have on your desk.

Flexi-Chair BackSupport Office Chair BS1B.

The chair itself is also fully adjustable. You can raise and lower the seat, and you can also move the seat cushion in and out so you can find that perfect seating position. The chair back is made from breathable elastic, so it helps on those occasional hot days when you are having to sit all day! The seat cushion is padded and very comfortable. You can also move the arms to whatever position you need them in too!

Flexispot EHD2 Standing Desk.

I couldn’t help but love it from the moment it was set up. With a stylish look, excellent storage, smooth movement, and heavy and robust nature, it is an excellent desk. Yes, the setup is a little fiddly, but this matters not, once you are up and running.

Q8 8-in-1 Standing Desk.

Undoubtedly, I adore this desk. Not only is it robust and well-built, but it is great to look at as well. I cherish the environmentally friendly bamboo top and the stunningly simple metal finish. On top of this, the built-in charging point, the USB ports, and the excellent control unit make it easy to use. Furthermore, the small but effective draw and the cable management system are well considered. Subsequently, it ticks many boxes.

Don’t miss the Flexispot Spring Sale.

If you are in the market for a new standing desk or office chair, then look no further than the Flexispot Spring Sale. With up to 33% off the marked price (every Wednesday in March 2023), this is an offer you can’t refuse. We adore their furniture and recommend them for your office space.

_{(More information on Flexispot can be found here!)}

News: Mental Health 2023

News

Daniel Waite

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Feb 25, 2023

0

As the world becomes busier and more hectic, our personal needs fall by the wayside. Now, for some of us, this matters not. However, plenty of people are sensitive to these changes and a cold shoulder or overlooked achievement can impact them. Consequently, our mental health is taking a battering! Moreover, cost-cutting is impacting the help that is available and people become desperate.

Unfortunately, many of us have either been in this position or know someone that has been impacted by this problem. When this happens, our worlds are turned upside down, and screaming isn’t enough to find a resolution. Thankfully, though, the gaming industry is trying to address this taboo subject as more mainstream games discuss the subject. On top of this, the UK has some phenomenal charities to help people in need. Yet, these fantastic groups are stretched to their limits.

One such team is Man Down in Cornwall. This charity focuses on men’s mental health and is something that I am passionate about. This enthusiasm has led to me running the 2023 London Marathon as my chosen charity. So long story short, I’m here to ask for your help and potentially a donation. I know gamers are a resilient bunch and the industry does a lot to represent the subject. However, minor moments in each of our lives could seriously impact our mental well-being. Accordingly, you never know when you’ll need a charity like Man Down.

Leading games that discuss mental health.

There have been some amazing games that use the mental health taboo at their core. Fractured Minds, Hellblade, Night in the Woods, Depression Quest, and so forth. Each of these titles has a different approach and a unique aesthetic. Furthermore, they tell defining stories of suffering that have fleeting moments of success. Accordingly, each developer uses their creative licence to produce a captivating story that stays true to its principles.

Though these teams do a wonderful job at portraying the issues at hand, there was potential to cause offence. Subsequently, each game presents its ideas in a responsible way. However, there are some interesting mechanics and some standout visuals. Furthermore, the audio is usually haunting, eerie, and suitable for the theme.

Whatever the genre, each of these titles is memorable and well-received. Moreover, the variety of gameplay enables a larger audience to experience each well-conceived game. As such, each publisher and developer has enjoyed vast success from their brave decision to tackle this unnecessarily taboo label. Yet, I’d still like more to be done to help those that are suffering. Thankfully, this is where Man Down and other charities come to the fore.

Who is Man Down?

Man Down is a Cornwall-based non-profit Community Interest Company. We provide informal peer-support talking groups all over Cornwall for men with mental health concerns. Together, we can end the stigma and reduce the number of male suicides in Cornwall. You are not alone. Let’s keep talking about it! #mandowncornwall2022💙

How can you help?

You, like me, may know someone that is suffering from mental health concerns. Alternatively, you may sadly have unnecessarily lost a friend or family member. Whatever the circumstances, I’m sure you’ll feel as passionate as I do. Therefore, what can you do to help? You may wish to raise awareness of your local charities or fundraise for them. However, if this doesn’t take your fancy, why not help me to raise funds for Man Down? If this floats your boat, please click the link here to go to my fundraising profile.

Creative Strategies to Improve Your Scoring in Cribbage

News

Christopher John

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Feb 25, 2023

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What makes Cribbage one of the most enduring card games ever? How is it possible for a single game to remain unchanged for hundreds of years after being passed from generation to generation

The best answer to these questions is probably its uniqueness. Cribbage is a two-player card game that has stood the test of time and remained one of our favorites to this day.

And a game that is unlike others must require some different gameplay and strategies, right? That’s why we are here to let you know about all strategies you can use in order to beat your opponents.

Look at some of the crucial must-knows and creative ways to score and peg that board before your opponent even realizes what’s happening.

Make the most of your dealer privilege

We all know how important it is to play a game of Cribbage with positional play. In case you are the dealer, you have a great advantage over your opponent, so you better make the most of it.

The first thing to consider is building a Crib at the beginning. In case you are a dealer, you will want to load that Crib with some good cards. In this scenario, good Crib cards would be Fives or Tens – cards that easily create a count of fifteen.

The cards you have in your hands should determine your strategy. You must decide if it is a good idea to place some pairs or cards that follow each other in values to create pairs or sequences. Otherwise, it might be better to place Aces or Kings because they are harder to use in a run.

In case you are the non-dealer and do not score from the crib do the exact opposite. Fill it with useless cards that don’t offer many options for scoring.

Make a good start

The first move aka the first card that is laid down is very important. It determines the path and order of the following cards.

Probably the best card to start with would be a Four. None of the cards your opponent uses next can help him score. Avoid cards that easily create points such as Fives or Tens.

A good start could be with a pair. Even if your opponent follows with the same value card creating a pair, you can use the third matching card and make a “pair royale”.

Avoid rookie mistakes

Stay concentrated and don’t let your opponent take over the control of the game. Some basic mistakes can cost you a lot later.

The most common mistakes could be starting with a Five or a Ten, using low-value cards at the beginning, or creating counts of 21. The 21 rule is the one you should especially be careful of since your opponent will score 31 using only one card.

Have in mind that 10-ranked cards are the most common ones in the deck and your opponent is highly likely to have one or a few.

Remember you are far behind as a non-dealer

Simple math and logic easily explain the advantage the dealer has over the non-dealer.

The average number of points a dealer scores in one round is 16. It is much lower for the non-dealer – only 10.

The average number of deals in one game of Cribbage is 9 completely finished ones and the 10th one that is usually not finished. This means that the starting dealer gets to count one crib more than the non-dealer.

All of this makes the game much more difficult for the non-dealer. He must play smarter and be more cautious of the moves they both make.

Is this fair? Well, yes. Those are the rules and that creates the dynamic of the game. After all, it changed the roles in the next round and that makes it even.

Create traps for your opponent

One of the easiest traps you can set is playing a Seven. If the opponent is not careful or does not see through your intentions, he will play an Eighth in order to score 15. You can then place a nine and create a sequence for yourself and score additional points.

But the same thing can happen to you. You must remain concentrated during the game of Cribbage, otherwise, you will become the fish that bites the bait.

Analyze your opponent

In case you are playing with the same opponents over and over it is much easier to become familiar with their plays and strategies. This might be a bigger challenge when an unfamiliar player is on the opposite side and you are not aware of their skills.

Anyway, always try to get a read on your opponent. Remember that each player tends to hold cards that can be used for scoring points. They must have some ideas or tactics in their mind. And your job is to recognize those and use them to your advantage.

Where to play Cribbage

To play Cribbage you’ll need a Cribbage board. You can buy custom boards from the Cribbage Guys. You can also play online on sites like Cribbage-Online or at the Cribbage Congress.

How to watch pro esports on your smartphone

News

Christopher John

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Feb 25, 2023

0

How to watch pro esports on your smartphone

The esports industry has always been popular with gamers, journalists, and followers. But we’ve seen a spike in the number of people playing and watching esports over the last five years. Competitions are advertised online, venues sold out for the most important games, and the best of the best often feature on television and live streaming apps.

A good indicator of how far esports has come in such a short time can be found in the gambling industry. The leading online sportsbooks now cover esports in detail, offering betting markets, live coverage, stats, interviews, and more. Those gambling on esports can access the best sportsbook sign up bonus, landing a free bet on the next fixture. Gambling on esports is as simple as betting on tonight’s live match from the National Football League.

Esports’ rise to fame may feel like an overnight sensation, but nothing could be further from the truth. Its success at this point is the result of years of hard work building the brand, attracting sponsorship, seeking the best players, and convincing them that gaming is a viable way to make a living. They launched it to the public only when organizers working tirelessly behind the scenes felt their brand was ready.

Time to get involved

Are you a fully paid-up member of the esports fan club? You may have watched its meteoric rise over the last decade. Taking pride as esports moved from an interest for teenagers and aging gamers to a multi-billion dollar industry enjoyed by millions worldwide. 2020 was when esports eventually burst onto the scene, and it has gone from strength to strength since, collecting new fans with every tournament.

This may be one of your first encounters with esports and the first time you heard it was possible to bet on professional gaming. There’s nothing wrong with that, of course, and as the old saying goes, better late than never. If you have just joined the party, there’s plenty of catching up to be done. But we’re happy to help bring you up to speed.

Another way to view it is you have timed your arrival to perfection. Esports has never been as strong and widespread as it is today. We’re seeing a new generation who view gaming as much more than a hobby. It’s a chance for players to turn their passion into a profit. Are you a gamer with the skills, dedication, and technology to join the best esports leagues and tournaments?

There’s no need to worry if that’s not the case. Even if you’re a skilled gamer who plays against friends and family and online for fun, making it as a pro can be challenging. We’d compare it to having fun with a football, tossing it around the backyard, and going for the NFL. They’re worlds apart.

Dedication takes time, and time is money as an adult. Then the technology needed to be an elite-level gamer is costly. You could break the bank simply by building experience. But there’s another, less expensive way to get involved in esports – watching games using your smartphone.

Simple but effective

Live esports has never been more accessible than today. You can watch the best of the week’s action on certain television channels. But the best place to find esports coverage is on live streams. These are available to view on your Android and iOS smartphone, meaning you’ll never miss another fixture due to work commitments.

When watching esports online, you must take your time to find the best live stream available. Poor-quality streams easily outnumber excellent apps. You may not know this as it’s not common knowledge, but online sportsbooks offer the best live streams for esports.

Register an account with a gambling app, click the live stream tab, and select the esports fixture you wish to watch. The HD-quality coverage has unique camera angles, live scores, stats, and expert commentary—everything you need to enjoy the show.

What’s more, it’s affordable. You only need a modern smartphone to register an account and start watching esports live. The best live streams may come from a bookmaker, but there’s no need to gamble on esports to access the stream. However, you can if you want. The best betting apps offer free live streaming of esports, soccer, football, and boxing if you have an account registered with them.

Review: Rocketbook Mini

Andrew Edney

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Feb 25, 2023

0

Here is our review of the Rocketbook Mini.

The Rocketbook Mini notebook provides a classic pen and paper experience, yet is built for the digital age. Although it feels like a traditional pocket-sized notebook, the Mini is endlessly reusable and pairs with the Rocketbook app to connect to all of your favorite cloud services.

When you write using any pen from the Pilot Frixion line, your writing sticks to Core pages like regular paper. But add a drop of water… and the notebook erases like magic.

What’s in the package?

The package contains the Rocketbook, a pen, a wipe and instructions.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The Rocketbook Mini is a pocket size notebook with blank pages for you to use however you need to.

You can use the Pilot FriXion pen to write in the planner, and when you are finished you can used the cloth to wipe the page or pages clean and start again.

Don’t worry if you want to keep the pages, you can use the Rocketbook iOS (or Android) app which allows you can scan the pages and upload them to the cloud for storage and safekeeping. Scanning the pages are easy, the app uses the QR code on each page to help you with the process, including lining up the page perfectly.

You can set the app up so that anything you scan is automatically sent somewhere – for example to your email address or your Dropbox (or many other choices too). This is all pretty seamless and there are plenty of other options for you to use in the app too.

Overall the Rocketbook Mini is a great way to help make notes on the go and use them in a variety of different ways.

The Rocketbook Mini is available now priced around £15.99 and comes in a variety of different colours.

You can learn more from the Rocketbook website.

Review: Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag

Daniel Waite

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Feb 24, 2023

0

Having the latest and greatest tech is all well and good. However, if you don’t protect it, your shiny new device quickly becomes damaged and less appealing. Consequently, if you have a laptop that is transported for work or pleasure, then you’ll need a fashionable and sturdy bag. This is where the Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag is a must. This slim item safely stores its contents while looking great in your hands or carried on your shoulder.

Alongside this, it is environmentally friendly. Created from up to 11 recycled PET bottles, you know you are doing your bit for the environment. Moreover, the build quality is fantastic. Accordingly, you’ll have no concerns whenever you use this to transport a laptop, MacBook, or tablet.

What’s in the box of the Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag?

The bag is sealed in a clear plastic bag. The irony that an eco-friendly product was packaged in non-recyclable plastic wasn’t lost on me.
The cardboard label adds little to the product. If I worked at Trust, I’d probably remove this cardboard label altogether.
The Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag is available to buy in 4 colours. Furthermore, with several zipped compartments, you can safely store your gear. The main area is sizeable and is lined with a soft microfiber material.
A slim shoulder strap is provided to enhance your carrying options.

Build quality.

Transporting tablets and laptops can be challenging. No one wants to damage their devices, but you need them whenever you work from home. Fortunately, though, the Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag is well padded. Subsequently, the contents are protected and the soft lining prevents scratches. Moreover, the secure zips are fastened to the material and appear robust and hard-wearing.

Alongside the main compartment is a smaller area to store your peripherals. Unfortunately, this isn’t lined with a microfiber material, but this is a minor complaint. Instead, this smaller area is perfect for your charger, mouse, or headphones. Unlike its peers, this bag uses zips to secure each area. This was a welcomed design choice, as it is reassuringly secure.

The bag has two colour-coded rings to attach the shoulder strap. They are moderately sized, strong, and feel capable of carrying a reasonable weight. What’s more, they are securely fastened to the bag. Accordingly, I was confident that the contents would be safely transported.

Is the Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag worth it?

Money, money, money! This word tarnishes our existence. However, Trust delivers amazing products without the hefty price tag. Consequently, their head-turning products are paired with a desirable price point. This excellent bag is available from many retailers for under £20! Subsequently, you are getting a lot of bang for your buck, especially when you consider the eco-friendly approach.

On top of this, you have a choice of colours. The compartments are secure and protected, and the Trust Bologna 16″ laptop bag looks professional. Moreover, there are 2 carrying methods and it can comfortably store most laptops. However, the irony of an unnecessary cardboard label and plastic packaging is an unnecessary shortcoming. Yet, all things considered, this is an exceptional product and I recommend that you buy it here!

_{(More information on Trust can be found here!)}

Why Has Rainbow Six Siege Become So Popular All Over The World?

Gaming

Andrew Edney

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Feb 24, 2023

0

Why Has Rainbow Six Siege Become So Popular All Over The World?

In 2015, gaming company Ubisoft released one of its most successful video games, Rainbow Six Siege. Rainbow Six Siege is a tactical first-person shooter that heavily emphasizes teamwork and strategy. The requirement for collaboration makes it incredibly rewarding when teams manage to work well together. However, there are more reasons why Rainbow Six Siege has become a top-rated game in 2023. In this article, we’ll check out some of the primary reasons Rainbow Six Siege received immense popularity!

Rainbow Six Siege Has A Very Unique And Tactical Approach

One of the primary reasons for Rainbow Six Siege’s success worldwide is that the game can be considered more tactical than other first-person shooter games. Many players play Rainbow Six Siege due to the communication, teamwork, and strategy required to win games. These requirements allow players to work together, and they find it incredibly rewarding when their teamwork pays off.

Unlike other first-person shooter games, Rainbow Six Siege starts every round with a preparation stage, where both Attackers and Defenders can plan their strategy. The Defenders will be able to place traps and gadgets alike on specific spots to strengthen their defense. Meanwhile, the Attackers can use drones to scout out what the Defenders are doing and plan an attack around the information gained.

The round begins like any other first-person shooter game when the preparation is over. However, an interesting mechanic in Rainbow Six Siege is that you can create new pathways and destroy structures to create positioning advantages over your opponents! These are inaccessible in other first-person shooter games, making Rainbow Six Siege super unique.

Incredible Esports Scene and Betting On Tournaments

Now that we’ve understood Rainbow Six Siege is a very tactical video game, it’s only natural for professional players and esports teams to take an interest in competing. Rainbow Six Siege was released in 2015 and immediately attracted many players to take the game seriously at a competitive level.

In 2023, the Rainbow Six Siege esports scene is performing incredibly well. Massive esports organizations like G2 Esports, Team Liquid, Astralis, and FaZe Clan have world-class esports rosters competing in huge Rainbow Six tournaments.

Rainbow Six holds the Six Invitational, their most prestigious annual tournament on which you can bet. The 2023 iteration of the tournament was hosted in February and featured a prize pool of $3,000,000! This tournament was massive for the Rainbow Six betting on Tips.GG, as many fans could place R6 bets on the matches. G2 Esports ended up victorious and took home $1,000,000 in prize money. Other than the Six Invitational, other major Rainbow Six tournaments are held throughout the year.

Rainbow Six Siege Supports Cross-play

Another brilliant move that Rainbow Six Siege made is the ability to support cross-platform play. Cross-platform play means players can play the game from different platforms, including PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and even Stadia platforms!

As a result, the Rainbow Six Siege community has become more inclusive and accessible for many players. Exposure to four different platforms allows Rainbow Six Siege to gather a broader audience base, which other first-person shooter games such as Counter-Strike and Valorant can’t. Cross-platform play will also let friends play with each other despite having different preferences for their preferred gaming devices.

Allowing cross-platform play is highly beneficial for Rainbow Six Siege, as an increase in the player base will ensure matchmaking queue times won’t take too long. If players can find Rainbow Six matches within seconds, they’ll be able to fit more matches into their gaming sessions, which is what every gamer wants.

Another cool thing is that players can link their accounts across the different platforms by using their Ubisoft account. Players can save the progress of different operators and cosmetics through all four platforms.

Frequent Updates And Gameplay Changes

The final reason for Rainbow Six Siege’s popularity is that Ubisoft, the game’s developers, still nurtures the game regularly. Ubisoft releases gameplay updates on a regular basis to ensure the game stays fresh and relevant.

Ubisoft has been doing an excellent job releasing new characters into the game. These characters are called “operators”, Like MOBA games, each operator has unique abilities, roles, and play styles that distinguish them from other operators. By releasing new operators regularly, players can learn and master them instead of playing the same operators, which can get dull very quickly.

Not only is Ubisoft releasing new operators, but they are also publishing new maps. If you’re a fan of first-person shooter games, you know how important maps are to any game. Fortunately, Ubisoft constantly releases new exciting maps, which has helped keep Rainbow Six incredibly relevant. New maps pose new strategies and environments, keeping the player base entertained. However, shoving new maps to players can be overwhelming, so Ubisoft rotates old maps out when new ones arrive, so players can focus on a set amount of maps instead of having to focus on too many.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ubisoft’s Rainbow Six Siege has found incredible success over the eight years it has been released. Most first-person shooter fans consider it the most strategy-dependent FPS game, attracting many tactical fans to commit. With the game heavily relying on teamwork, it is always a treat to watch the best players compete against each other, which is why Rainbow Six Siege has a thriving esports scene. Ubisoft has also done a great job of allowing cross-platform play and releasing constant updates to keep the game relevant and popular. With recent Rainbow Six tournament successes, such as the Six Invitational 2023, we can expect Rainbow Six Siege to continue growing in the next few years.

Improve Your Online Poker Experience With These Tips

News

Christopher John

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Feb 24, 2023

0

Improve Your Online Poker Experience With These Tips

Do you love to play poker online? Are you looking for ways to improve your online poker experience? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! Here, we will discuss tips and tricks to help online poker players get the most out of their game. These tips will help ensure your online poker experience is as enjoyable as possible. So read on, and let’s improve your online poker experience today.

Photo by iStockphoto

Understand Online Poker Regulations and Etiquette

Knowing online poker regulations and etiquette is essential to getting the most out of your online poker experience. By familiarizing yourself with online poker regulations and etiquette, you can focus less on mistakes you might make that will disrupt other players or get you disqualified and more on perfecting your strategy and winning more hands.

Additionally, knowing how to properly behave online can ensure more positive interactions with opponents through chat windows, allowing for lots of significant interaction between players. Once you understand these basics, you’ll find your online poker experience far more enjoyable and far less intimidating!

Look for a Site that Suits You

Playing poker games online can be a lot of fun, but it’s crucial to find the right poker site that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for tournaments or cash games, there is a poker site for everyone.

Spend time researching different poker sites and reading reviews to learn which offers you the kind of poker experience that fits you best. Not everyone likes playing at large poker rooms, so consider checking out smaller sites too. Smaller poker rooms can offer a more intimate atmosphere where everyone knows each other and gets to know each other better. It can be a great way to build friendships and make your poker experience more enjoyable. Once you find the right site for yourself, start playing and enjoy the fun of poker with friends from around the globe.

Photo by Pixabay

Take Advantage of Bonus Offers

Taking advantage of bonuses and promotions can be a great way to ramp up your online poker experience. Not only do they provide extra cash to your account, which can help you play longer or level up faster, but they can also give you access to exclusive rewards and tournaments. Most online poker sites also offer generous bonuses for new players just starting on the platform, such as bonus money for depositing into your account, so get out there and snatch those deals up as soon as possible.

Additionally, loyalty programs can offer additional benefits, such as higher welcome bonuses, VIP statuses with perks like special weekly matches and boosted rewards, and special events. If you’re an avid online poker player, you should take advantage of all these bonuses and rewards to extend and improve your overall experience.

Utilize Online Tools and Resources to Improve Your Online Poker Skills

There are many sites out there that offer free poker advice and have specialized tutorials that you can use to learn new strategies in all kinds of scenarios. Additionally, joining forums or online communities of like-minded players can give you better access to valuable tips and tricks and increase your comfort with different techniques and tools.

Furthermore, some apps provide something that live games can’t: real-time help. Need advice on a hand during the game? Just whip out your smartphone for quick tips and guidance from experts. Many of these tools and resources–like poker odds calculators–are specifically designed for use with online play. These resources will give you an edge in improving your skills and make the whole digital card-playing experience much more enjoyable.

Practice Regularly with Free Poker

Free online poker is the perfect way to practice your game without financial risk. It allows you to build up your skillset and experiment with various strategies. The free platforms also provide an excellent opportunity to explore different types of poker, so don’t be afraid to take chances and try something new.

With free online poker, you can sharpen your skills without risking any money and increase the enjoyment of your next real-money game. So make sure to get familiar with free poker and use it to improve your overall experience with this thrilling card game.

Photo by Pixabay

Manage your Bankroll Wisely

Bankroll management is nothing fancy–it simply means tracking the money you spend in poker games, ensuring it’s within your limits, and protecting yourself from any runaway losses. By sticking to pre-set bets and not chasing losses, poker enthusiasts can stretch their bankroll further and enjoy playing poker more responsibly–without going over budget. Sticking to the right bankroll management strategy can make all the difference when playing poker online, ensuring you have a great time with every poker game!

Playing poker online can be a thrilling experience for anyone. To make the most out of your digital card-playing journey, you should practice with free poker games regularly, take advantage of helpful tools and resources, and pay attention to bankroll management. With these tips in mind, sign up immediately at Natural8! Go get ’em, champ!

Review: Seven Doors

Daniel Waite

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Feb 23, 2023

0

Seven Doors is an inexpensive puzzle title that has been around for a few years. However, recently it had its console debut, and that’s where I step in. This dark and eerie experience tests your mental prowess, logical thought process, and agility. As such, it blends multiple genres and squeezes them into a short but enjoyable endeavour.

Developed by Indigo Studios and published by SOEDESCO, this is a puzzle and trivia title. What’s more, it has some distinct escape room mechanics and is uncomfortably sinister. Moreover, the small rooms and claustrophobic spaces have unique themes with creepy undertones. Accordingly, it is an enjoyable but uncomfortable mental test.

4 clues surrounded by walls of paintings. — Read the clues and scour the paintings.

Seven Doors tells a secretive tale.

Seven Doors does its best to keep you in the dark. Now, I’m talking both literally and metaphorically. As such, the plot is shrouded in mystery and the aesthetics are dark, haunting, and grim. Subsequently, you are kept on the edge of your seat as you attempt to progress.

The game opens with you locked in a corridor and no explanation of why you are there. However, within moments, a booming voice invites you to solve each puzzle you face. The journey comprises 7 unique problems that are located in 7 special rooms. Each area tests a different skill, but logic and problem-solving remain at the fore. Accordingly, if you manage to clear each room and open each of the Seven Doors, you’ll come face-to-face with your captor.

An army of twisted figures block your path. — Don’t take the wrong path.

A straightforward idea.

Seven Doors doesn’t overcomplicate things. Instead, it relies on an interesting blend of trivia, riddles, and logic to define its puzzles. Alongside this, there are some clichéd horror moments that’ll make you jump. Normally, I’d despise these well-trodden elements, but I appreciated the change of pace. Furthermore, the moments that tested your dexterity and reactions were equally good.

The aim of each room is to complete the test, unlock the skull, and open the door. However, this is easier said than done. Whether you are gathering items, scouring paintings for clues, or avoiding traps, you’ll be pushed to your limits. Thankfully, the various tests at hand ensure that you’ll struggle at some point. Subsequently, this is an excellent experience for players of all abilities.

Seven Doors is potentially too dark.

I loved the sombre and oppressive nature of Seven Doors. Yet, its reliance on muted tones and low light was off-putting. At times, the developers relied on this seedy approach too much. Consequently, its impact was reduced. Instead, I’d have preferred to experience some surreal rooms that juxtaposed the sinister edge. Had this occurred, the action would have been more refreshing and exciting to observe.

This to one side, the first-person perspective enhances the feeling of claustrophobia. Moreover, the easy-to-read text helps you to work out what was required. Yet, at times, it was tough to find specific items. Unfortunately, the aforementioned low light made it tough to explore some of the rooms.

Where the developers excelled was the moody audio. The dramatic soundtrack and basic sound effects complement one another. What’s more, it wasn’t too loud, and it didn’t overpower each scene. Instead, it created an uncomfortable ambience that worked with the creepy theme.

A larger than life game of chess. — Can you complete the game of chess?

A PC port.

Some PC-ported games work brilliantly. Age of Empires 2 blew my mind. However, Seven Doors wasn’t so spectacular. Disappointingly, the cursor lacks accuracy and the action buttons are poorly explained. Yet, once you overcome the issues and get used to the problems, it is a comfortable title to play.

Another shortcoming is the length of the gameplay. Unfortunately, Seven Doors is finished far too quickly. However, its inexpensive price point mitigates this issue while enhancing its desirability.

Seven Doors just about gets it right.

Though I’ve been thorough and highlighted a few issues, Seven Doors is a good puzzle experience. The blend of challenges and excellent audio will keep you entertained. Additionally, the jump scares and traps increase the difficulty further still. Accordingly, I liked it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you overcome each obstacle and unlock every door? Search for clues, collect the skulls, and find the exit.

Tips to Make a Great Profile Pic for Your Online Presence

News

Christopher John

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Feb 23, 2023

0

It is hard to imagine modern life while ignoring the ubiquitous presence of social media. But how successful you turn out to be on these platforms depends heavily on many factors, including the quality of your profile picture.

People’s first impressions of you on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and even dating sites are shaped by the photo you choose to represent yourself. Therefore, it is important to go the extra mile to get the finest pics you can capture.

Why Good Photo is Important for Social Media and Dating Sites

You have probably seen thousands of people’s profile photographs across various social media platforms and datingsites. The thing is that each time you view a new profile photo, you learn something new about the person.

It implies that your first impression of someone can shape your opinion of them for the rest of your interaction with them. And the same holds when someone else checks out your photos on these platforms.

The impact of having a good profile pic is even more pronounced if you plan to find a hookup locally on dating sites. The reason is that casual dating depends heavily on how you look and bring to your new relationship.

Understand that people are mentally swiping right or leftbased on your profile pic. They will decide whether they want to connect or dismiss you as a potential partner. Therefore, never ignore the importance of sharing the best photos on your profile page.

Tips for Taking Good Profile Photos

You have to consider a number of things in order to make your profile picture as impressive as possible. For instance:

While you can always use online tools to make a PFP that truly stands out, there are certain fundamental tips you should follow to ensure your profile picture looks great from the start.

Check Size and Format Requirements

Taking a profile photo for a specific dating site or social media platform? Follow this advice to the letter. Each social media site has its own specifications for profile photo dimensions and file types. Before you snap a photo, make sure it satisfies the requirements of the hosting site or app so that it displays correctly once you upload it.

Examine Your Pics and Choose the Best Pose

After snapping a few shots, go through them and pick the best one. The best photo of you is the one in which you look relaxed, interested, and at ease. Examine your body language and facial expression to ensure they reflect your intended tone.

Use a Light Source for Indoor Pics

Whenever you take images indoors, it is imperative that you have some sort of lighting. A well-lit image will have a more polished and pleasing aesthetic, which is especially important for local dating or hookup sites. Take images next to a window or bulb if you cannot access studio lighting.

Get a Tripod or Ask a Friend for Assistance

Use a tripod or have a friend help you out if you keep getting fuzzy photos or weird angles when you take shots. Your phone or camera will stay steady on a tripod, and your companion will give you helpful comments and new perspectives.

Be Moderate When Editing the Final Image

Final photo editing should be done moderately. Filters and effects can make your photo look better, but using too many of them might make it look fake and amateurish. Concentrate on tweaks like brightening, darkening, and balancing colors instead.

Great Phone Apps for the Best Results

Using the right settings to take pictures is crucial, but it is just as important to process those images in the right way. That is when you can use these apps:

Google Camera

A mobile app for Android smartphones, its high-end specs and excellent picture quality make it ideal for capturing high-quality stills and moving images. In low-light situations, users can capture images without using the flash, thanks to the app’s Night Sight function. The HDR+ function of the app allows for the capture of photographs with high resolution, color precision, and dynamic range.

Open Camera

This open-source camera app is free to use on Android devices. Equipped with various customization options, it supports exposure, ISO, manual focus, and white balance controls. Various shooting modes are also available, such as timelapse, panorama, and slow motion. The best part is that you can find an in-built editor, which lets you brush up on your photos and make them perfect for enchanting users on social media and dating / hookup sites.

ProCam X Lite

To take full advantage of your Android device’s camera, download this feature-packed app today. Its fantastic manual controls will make shooting both videos and snaps, and you will adore it for this reason. Controls like ISO, focus, and white balance are at your fingertips. Changing the shutter speed allows for shooting in a variety of effects, including slow motion. Moreover, it is easy to take amazing images because of the UI, which is both intuitive and modern.

Lightroom Camera

This free app has all the tools serious photographers need, and it is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. White balance, exposure, and focus can all be modified with its high-end features. Also, the app’s ability to photograph in HDR and capture RAW images are both cool extras. One of itsinteresting features is its compatibility with Adobe Creative Cloud, which allows you to access and edit your photos on the cloud from any device.

Conclusion

When using online dating services, a good profile picture is essential. It is the first thing people see when they visit your profile, and it may make or break your chances of getting any kind of interaction. So, take your time, utilize the best applications, and find the most flattering poses to obtain captivating profile pictures for your social media and dating profiles.