Review: A Plague Tale: Requiem

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: A Plague Tale: Requiem

A Plague Tale: Requiem is one of the most anticipated titles of 2022! This follow-up to the much-loved 2019 hit, A Plague Tale: Innocence, is a must-play game and immediately joins the Game Pass ranks. Accordingly, gamers can get their mitts on this beautiful and captivating experience without spending a penny. However, will it be all hype and no substance, or will it continue from where its predecessor left off?

Developed by Asobo Studio and published by Focus Entertainment, this is an action-adventure title. Furthermore, it has a sombre and melancholy plot that is emotive, and tough to swallow, but incredibly fascinating and rewarding at the same time. You’ll vie for the key protagonists from the off, and fans of the series will adore the familiar gameplay mechanics. However, this doesn’t mean that it sticks entirely to a well-trodden path. No, because it evolves impressively to create a deeper and more fulfilling game to play.

A Plague Tale: Requiem is much of the same, but altogether different as well. 

A Plague Tale: Requiem follows the tale of the De Rune siblings, Amicia and Hugo. The brother and sister are bound together by a sense of loyalty and love and will let nothing stand in their way. Yet, a cursed plague haunts the pair, and poor Hugo is inflicted with an illness. Like the first instalment, the family is tracked by the Inquisition and surrounded by black rats, as they try to live a quiet life in 14th-century medieval France. However, this time, the siblings must survive long enough to discover a mysterious island that could cure Hugo of his ailment. 

Sounds dramatic, right? Well, that’s because it is! The remarkable story flows beautifully between each chapter. Moreover, new mechanics and special skills are drip-fed as puzzles and challenges become increasingly convoluted. As such, you’ll require guile, logical thinking, an accurate shot, and a fair bit of luck to succeed. Furthermore, fire and light are your best tools to defeat and control the haunting plague of rats.

This may seem extremely familiar if you’ve played the original. Well, I’m not going to lie. Most of the core mechanics are identical. However, the developers have brilliantly tweaked many of these elements and added some new ideas. You’ll note the return of the trusty slingshot, the pots, rocks, and the Ignifier and Extinguis potions. Yet, new equipment, such as tar, a knife, and a crossbow, alters your approach and enhances your choices.

Puzzles, violence, and stealth.

This action-adventure title is unlike many of its peers. Though fighting is an essential survival tool, you are better off hiding in plain sight. Subsequently, the protagonists must use stealth and guile to avoid their opponent’s gaze. Moreover, by jumping through windows, shuffling down gaps, and hiding under tables, you’ll stay safe and live to fight another day. Yet, if things heat up, you can use pots and rocks to distract your foes. Then, if you so wish, you can finish them with your knife, or strangle them to death. On top of this, you may use your slingshot to kill unarmoured mercenaries, or your crossbow to annihilate armoured warriors.

The human-on-human interactions are intertwined with skin-crawling encounters. Wave after wave of black rats stalks the heroes throughout every chapter. Now, this may seem like a horrendous thing, and at first, it is. Yet, you soon realise that you can manipulate the pests to do your bidding. These skin-hungry rodents can be coerced into attacking unwitting victims as you light pyres and shoot animal corpses. This may seem disgusting, but it is a case of you, or them! What’s more, Hugo’s life depends on your unwavering nerve and deadly accuracy.

Alongside this, there are some intricate puzzles that must be solved. Don’t be fooled, though, as these won’t test you to your limits. Instead, they ask you to observe your surroundings and crack a basic code. Consequently, this may seem a little under-baked and refined for some palettes, but I liked the level of difficulty and the minor deviation in the gameplay style. Furthermore, it was an ingenious way of expanding each chapter without slowing the action or frustrating its player base.

Supernatural powers.

What is particularly great about A Plague Tale: Requiem is how Amicia develops depending on your approach. Moreover, Hugo comes into his own as the true power of the Prima Macula comes to the fore. Both of these elements form key components in the flow of the gameplay and the ability to solve puzzles.

If you are stealth-focused, Amicia grows into this role and learns to adapt to the shadows and her surroundings. However, if you prefer the lethal approach, you’ll discover new combat skills and you’ll become more deadly. On top of this, gear can be upgraded throughout and this gives a better chance of survival. Furthermore, making your slingshot stealthier, or being able to recycle resources improves your experience exponentially.

Now, we get to Hugo. He is the weak and often scared boy who’s at the root of all things evil. Yet, he’s not as powerless as he appears, and his strengths are game-changing. With the ability to see through walls and control the plague of rats, he can overwhelm his opponents and carve new paths. This was vastly important, as many problems required you to scythe through reams of stinking rodents or to avoid the attention of the Inquisition. Accordingly, I guess it is the weak underdog Hugo that is actually the hero of this tale.

A Plague Tale: Requiem looks incredible, mostly. 

A Plague Tale: Requiem is an undeniably stunning title that’ll blow you away. The depth of colours, the dated accurate medieval imagery, and the eerie melancholy sight of death are incredible to observe. However, occasionally, things went awry. Minor details were off, and the character’s hair looked wrong, the eyes would lack life, and frame rates would drop. But mostly, you experience a flawless, albeit uncomfortable title that deserves to be heralded as a true next-gen performance. 

With an amazing array of locations to explore, interesting puzzles to overcome, and a whole roster of characters to see, it is a treat to the eyes. Alongside this, the action is smooth, and I adored how each approach was catered to. If stealth is your thing, each area has oodles of hiding places to exploit. On the flip side, if fighting is your thing, you can easily use your ranged weapons to overpower your enemies. In short, each chapter is perfectly balanced, and neither style is left wanting.

A great adventure title needs an epic soundtrack. Thankfully, A Plague Tale: Requiem delivers just that. With perfectly choreographed audio, you’ll become lost in the moment. Subsequently, this is one dramatic tale that’ll drag you through an array of emotions. However, you won’t mind this as you vie for the protagonists at every opportunity. As such, you’ll “enjoy” dramatic and rich music as you battle the Inquisition or the horde of rats. Alternatively, sombre and softer songs fill the air during touching moments. The music is then complemented nicely by the incredible acting. The spectacular performance of the entire cast is a breath of fresh air.

Familiar controls. 

If you played A Plague Tale: Innocence, you’ll feel comfortable playing A Plague Tale: Requiem. The developers took the approach. If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it, and this was wonderful. Yet, if you’ve skipped the opening gambit, or you’ve forgotten altogether, it matters not. Thanks to the incredible opening prologue, you’ll enjoy a tutorial that sets the scene. Alongside this, you’ll love the radial menus, the responsive controls, and the clear and easy-to-understand aiming system. In short, it had been incredibly well thought out, and this enhances the experience.

I cherished A Plague Tale: Innocence, but it was just too short. Thankfully, the sequel lasts twice as long, around 25 hours, and that is amazing. If you then consider the variable gameplay styles, you have around 50-60 hours of action to contend with. This is absolutely mind-blowing when you consider that this is a day-one release on Game Pass.

A Plague Tale: Requiem was worth the wait. 

A Plague Tale: Requiem is a title that doesn’t disappoint. With an incredible storyline and setting, interesting characters, amazing mechanics, and a balanced approach, it ticks every box. I didn’t think it was possible to improve on the first instalment, but I was wrong. The sequel takes every amazing element and creates a moreish and gut-churning game. However, its occasional graphical error detracts from an otherwise polished endeavour. Consequently, I recommend you buy it here! Will you solve the mystery of the healing island? Use your skills and knowledge to overcome adversities and survive each relentless onslaught. 

Review: GXT 411 Radius

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: GXT 411 Radius

As a parent, it can be tough to buy the right gaming accessories. You don’t want to invest too much money, as you know they are bound to break them, eventually. However, you want the best experience that you can get, and sometimes you must compromise to achieve this. Thankfully, the Trust GXT 411 Radius does a fine job of delivering solid sound, crisp communication, and relative comfort.

On top of this, it is a multi-platform headset and which makes it versatile and fantastic value for money. Alongside this, it comes in a choice of colours, has an inline controller, and an adjustable headband. You must also consider the small but comfortable over-ear cups, and the precise audio delivered by the 40mm drivers. In short, this won’t compete with the big boys, but it is a great entry-level device for younger gamers or those that want a spare set of headphones.

What’s in the box of the GXT 411 Radius?

  • The lightweight box is sturdy but compact. It highlights the key selling points and has some product images. Furthermore, its sultry colours give it a professional edge.
  • The GXT 411 Radius headphones. These small headphones come in a choice of colours and have smaller over-ear cups than many of their peers. What’s more, there is a built-in wire with inline volume control and a swivel microphone.
  • PC audio adapters. The main cable is a 3.5mm jack and Trust has included a splitter cable for the pink and green ports for PC. As such, this ensures that you can use the device across multiple platforms.
  • Warranty card. A document that highlights warranty information.
Compact and sturdy packaging.
The GXT 411 Radius.
A handy pamphlet.
PC adapter cables.
The full package.

Technical aspects.

Noise reductionNo
Remote controlInline
Controls on deviceNo
ConnectionWired 3.5mm
Cable1m braided
Sound reproductionStereo
Driver size40mm

Different price points demand a unique point of view. Accordingly, I do not expect the GXT 411 Radius headphones to have market-leading technology, nor am I expecting booming and mind-blowing audio. Instead, I want this entry-level device to be comfortable, well-built and deliver reasonable audio. Fortunately, it does just that thanks to its compact and well-placed 40mm drivers.

The accurate but limited audio is what I’d expect from a lower-priced item. Consequently, I was neither impressed nor was I disappointed. The high and mid tones are pleasant to listen to without too much distortion. However, the bass is lacking in life and this impacts the experience of high-adrenaline games. Yes, this was frustrating, but the sound effects, music, and communication elements weren’t too adversely affected.

What was great was the swivel microphone and clean voice pickup. This was surprising as I expected it to be tinny, underwhelming, and difficult to understand. Furthermore, the gold-plated connections ensured that interference and unnecessary crackling were almost non-existent. However, with a lack of flip-to-mute and noise cancellation, the clarity is understandably impacted at times. Thankfully, though, the inline mute button and volume control ensure that you set levels to your liking.

Are the GXT 411 Radius worth it?

If you are a more experienced gamer, or you have a high-end headset, the GXT 411 Radius won’t be of interest to you. Yet, if you want a nice, solid peripheral that is reliable without breaking the bank, then maybe this will pique your interest. Thanks to its robust design, simple controls, and nice, but not overwhelming audio, it’ll be sure to be a hit.

Yes, it won’t stack up against any of the top headphones such as ROCCAT or Turtle Beach, but the price point reflects that. Instead, this is designed for people on a budget who want to break into the gaming scene. Subsequently, The GXT 411 Radius has done a great job for this audience. It was too basic for my liking, but I think it’ll resonate with many gamers. Accordingly, I recommend you buy it here!

(More information on Trust can be found here!)

News: Street Fighter 6 Beta Test

James Refelian
-
0
News: Street Fighter 6 Beta Test

So, I was lucky enough to experience the Street Fighter 6 Beta Test last weekend and all I have to say is wow. Street Fighter 6 is honestly shaping up to rival Street Fighter 2 as the best iteration of this beloved franchise.

Street Fighter 6 Beta Test

So, the Street Fighter 6 Beta Test only provided access to The Hub. While this meant the arcade mode and story mode were locked, I was able to experience the online multiplayer element. The Hub allows you to run around, customise your avatar and take a seat at an arcade machine to fight. The fights can either be standard or with some unique rules and modes. Either way, you’ll be fighting against players from all over the world (that connect to the same server as you).

The fights work precisely as you would expect – you play as your selected character (for me that’s always Chun-Li) and battle for victory. The controls haven’t changed since my experience with the game at EGX 2022 and felt as smooth now as they did then. You can pick classic controls with the expected button combos to perform moves or a simplified modern approach that requires less memory to master!

When you first sit at a machine, you’re provided with a tutorial so you can learn the basics and then the real fun begins. Playing against opponents, or spectating other people’s matches, it’s all visually exciting and colourful to look at. Graphically, Street Fighter 6 is stunning to look at and the character models really do look spectacular.

What I Loved

The music, the visuals, it’s all fantastic. What blew me away early on though was the avatar customisation screen. Every single feature, detail, and aspect can be changed, altered, and configured. Want to alter your eyebrows? You can. How about eyes? Well, there’s 38 different eye styles (yes, I counted!). scars, body type everything. Want to look like a body-building Santa? Well as the picture below shows… that’s doable too. When the game launches, I can see myself spending an incredibly long time making my avatar before I even start a single match.

Another great feature that was showcased in the Street Fighter 6 Beta Test was cross-play. This is cool if you have friends playing on different platforms. Worried that one platform may have an advantage? Well, this didn’t seem the case during my play session, but you can select ‘platform only’.  

What Will Hopefully be Improved  

I only experienced a couple of things I would nit-pick. Firstly, there were a few server connection errors. While I put this down to the fact that this was a beta test, I hope server stability is improved.

Secondly, I wish there were options to redesign your avatar, while the customisation is vast, it was a little daunting but sadly there didn’t seem to be a way to do that. Finally, it would have been nice to go back into the tutorial for a refresh every so often!

I don’t know if these features will be added to The Hub, but I do hope these are features that get included in the final build.

Conclusion

Street Fighter 6 is gearing up to be an exciting new installment of one of the greatest fighting game franchises. If the Street Fighter 6 Beta Test experience is anything to go on, it’s going to be huge. Online play, cross-play, story mode, more casual gaming, and the greatest avatar customisation I’ve seen in a while.

For more information, check out the official website!

A Closer Look at Bing Paddling Pool Playset Figurines and Accessories

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Bing Paddling Pool Playset Figurines and Accessories

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Bing Paddling Pool Playset Figurines and Accessories.

Bingsters will love with this fun-filled playset which can hold real water! Bing and Flop love to splish and splash around in their paddling pool. Comes with two figurines. Bing’s head turns and his legs bend too!

This fun packed toy is compatible with other Bing playsets so your Bingster can build Bing’s world and create new adventures as well as act out scenes from the show!

This set comes complete with five accessories… Along with the pool, see Bing and Flop’s top selection of toys: a model boat, submarine and bucket for building sandcastles. There’s even a little frog for more fun!

Suitable for ages 18 months up.

Bing Paddling Pool Playset Figurines and Accessories is available now priced around £16.99.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

A Closer Look at Bing Painting Playset Figurines and Accessories

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Bing Painting Playset Figurines and Accessories

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Bing Painting Playset Figurines and Accessories.

Bring Bing and Sula to life with this fabulous painting role-play set, a pure delight for your Bingster to play with! Includes fun accessories: paint pots, an easel and art desk – with removable crayon drawer! Bing and Sula’s head and painting arm are posable too.

This fun packed toy is compatible with other Bing playsets so your Bingster can build Bing’s world and create new adventures as well as act out scenes from the show!

This mini playset makes an ideal gift for any toddler as it helps to build early learning skills and start imaginative conversation.

Suitable for ages 18 months and up.

Bing Painting Playset Figurines and Accessories is available now priced around £16.99.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

A Closer Look at Hey Duggee Transforming Duggee Space Rocket

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Hey Duggee Transforming Duggee Space Rocket

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Hey Duggee Transforming Space Rocket.

3-2-1- Blast off on an outer space adventure with Duggee and the squirrels. This amazing 2 in 1 transforming toy sees astronaut Duggee magically transform into a space rocket with loads of fun features and surprises.

Slide the hatch and Duggee appears in his spaceman outfit ready to drive the spaceship! There are so many features including pop out wings, surprise alien frog figurine, sounds and lights. This is a must have for any Duggee fan ready for an epic space adventure!

  • Depth: 15 CM
  • Height: 27.1 CM
  • Width: 16.7 CM
  • MUSIC AND SOUND: Includes lots of silly space sounds as well as the new ‘Space Song!’
  • LIGHT UP ROCKET JETS: bright colourful lights emerge from the jets
  • SPACEMAN DUGGEE: Duggee in his space outfit, an exclusive figurine, is here to drive the ship
  • SPACE ROCKET FEATURES: Opening doors, pop out wings and a sliding hatch enhance the play
  • SURPRISE CHARACTER: Alien frog is hidden inside the rocket for added hilarity

Little ones will have hours of fun roleplaying flying the rocket. There are so many features including pop out wings, surprise alien frog figurine, sounds and lights. This is a must have for any Duggee fan aged 3+.

Hey Duggee Transforming Space Rocket is available now priced around £44.99.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

Compliance Is Not Enough – General Data Protection

Andrew Edney
-
0
Compliance Is Not Enough – General Data Protection

When doing online activities, data protection is essential; that’s why the term GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) appears. GDPR aims to store, process, and process residents’ personal data from 28 countries.

In practice, the main function of the GDPR is to give consumers control over the personal data collected by a company. That way, their personal data can be kept private and not used by irresponsible people.

To understand more clearly what is meant by GDPR and what are its effects on data protection?

Understanding GDPR

It’s General Data Protection Regulation, abbreviated as GDPR. More clearly, GDPR regulates online activities that protect consumer data.

GDPR  initially applied to European countries but now spread to many more regions worldwide. This GDPR includes strong requirements that will improve and harmonize data protection, security, and protection standards. 

There are several functions and objectives of the GDPR, one of which is to provide control to consumers over personal data collected by companies, such as:

  • User’s data
  • All data relating to internet use (even IP address)
  • Health and genetic data.
  • Biometric data.
  • Ethnic and racial data.
  • Political opinion
  • Sexual orientation

Please note that this GDPR applies to all companies with a lot of large consumer data, so you need to be careful when storing it.

What are the Specific Protections Regulated by the GDPR?

At a glance, GDPR includes a fairly strict policy because it must be responsible for and regulate various components, such as notification of attacks, the right to access data, the right to be deleted, data transfer, privacy, and the presence of data protection employees.

So that you know more clearly about the specific protections regulated by the GDPR, here is an explanation of the points of protection regulated by the GDPR, including:

Data breaches must be reported.

Data breaches must be reported in almost all situations, and people must be notified if their data is compromised, which is likely to result in a “high risk” to their rights and freedoms.

In case of a data breach, most companies usually have their own strategy to prevent the cybersecurity risks that may happen. But for personal use, you can use something to protect you from viruses and malware. In this case use malware removal tool to make your device free from ransomware. By removing the ransomware, the device experience may be smooth once again.

Special protection applies to sensitive information.

Usually, companies try to obtain sensitive data from users, including their personal info, political opinions, and even religious beliefs. And since the data obtained here is quite essential, companies always have to protect them, preventing any possible leaks.

Companies must seek someone’s consent before collecting or using people’s data.

In most situations, companies, governments, and other organizations must obtain genuine informed consent before collecting, using, or sharing someone’s personal data.

This consent request must be conveyed clearly and in a format that is easy to understand and uses clear and simple language. In other words, the consent request should be easy to find and understand.

Required to treat online identifiers and location data as personal data

This regulation means that information advertisers and websites use to track online activities, such as cookies, device identifiers, and internet protocol addresses, is entitled to the same level of protection as personal data.

In general, this kind of information can be very revealing about a person’s online activities and searches, especially when combined with other data held by the company.

The right to new data portability

People can download their personal data and transfer it to a competitor through the new data portability rights. For example, everyone should be able to retrieve their data from a social media network or financial institution in a format that allows them to switch services easily.

Why Compliance Is Not Enough

Keeping the company strict to regulation may make the managers and executives happy since there’s nothing that may lead to another fine. The company needs to face an even bigger problem, the effective strategy to market itself to customers.

Although the company is compliant, it won’t be successful if it doesn’t know how to sell its value. Try to achieve the best reach through an effective marketing strategy that involves using recent technology and making their brand relevant to the customers’ needs. 

Review: Priest Simulator

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Priest Simulator

I love it when a game takes me by surprise. Rarely do indie games shock me, but Priest Simulator has done just that. Because of its extremely unusual story, satanic undertones, and weird characters, I was confused, amused, and entertained throughout. However, this Early Access title is still being worked on, so will it do enough to be recommended?

Developed by Asmodev and published by Ultimate Games SA, this is a hectic and strange simulation title. Moreover, it has some building mechanics, a large world to explore, violence, exorcisms, and much, much more. On top of this, it is full of dark humour, has an incredible soundtrack, and is like nothing I’ve played before. As such, it impressed me with its original, albeit unusual, concept.

Priest Simulator has some weird characters
Bring the community together.

Priest Simulator will shock you. 

Priest Simulator isn’t just Rosary beads and hail Marys. Nope, it is an eclectic mix of fighting, drugs, drinking, quests, and running a church. Consequently, it is weird as hell, oddly fast-paced, and will keep you coming back for more. I previewed a standalone chapter from this team some time ago, and this full game has evolved nicely. Fortunately, the developers have promised more content in the coming months, so the moderate central plot should expand nicely.

You control Orlok, an angry and wily vampire who has somehow become a priest. The village of San de Ville was desperate for a religious figurehead, and the job was given to you. Accordingly, you don’t take your role too seriously, and decide that making money and being alright at your job are the most important things. However, you soon realise that there is much more to the priesthood than first meets the eye.

A strange story with odd acts.
Probably best not to look in the coffin.

Many tasks to complete. 

Priest Simulator could have been a mundane game. Instead, the massive world, whimsy characters, and magical elements bring it to life. As the new village priest, you are expected to help your faithful followers while getting rid of the riff-raff. The “Shatanists” are a rowdy bunch that refuses to follow your guidance. As such, the only way to convince them is by beating them to death. Now, this may seem extreme, but they are always up for a fight. During each encounter, you can use your fists, weapons, or your magical telekinetic powers. Whichever you choose will remove these beings from your path and will appease your followers.

Alongside the unruly violence are some more classical religious endeavours. You’ll be asked to exorcise demons, administer sacraments, and rebuild the church. These tasks take place in conjunction with the 17 unique storyline quests. Subsequently, the more you complete, the more powerful you become. This then helps you take down your opponents and makes the exploration elements more enjoyable.

If you like to explore your surroundings, you have a car that can be summoned and driven freely. This tiny machine packs a punch and can be used alongside your weapons to mow down your opponents. However, it is more useful in discovering hidden locations and takes the sting out of the massive open world. 

Priest Simulator looks eerie and strange. 

I’m not sure what inspired the developers, but the artistry is odd, creepy, and very unusual. Playing out from a first-person perspective, you witness every violent and religious act up close and personal. This was great in theory, but the finish isn’t great and everything looks a little rough. Thankfully, though, this doesn’t impact the frame rate or the performance. Yes, there were some minor glitches, but these were few and far between and didn’t detract from the ensuing madness.

What was amazing, however, was the excellent audio. Black metal band Gruzja has created an original soundtrack that works perfectly. The aggressive songs demand that you kick ass and take lives. Alongside this, the crunching sound effects were great. I adored the booming weapon noises, the airy magical sounds, and the unusual acting. In short, it is a strange experience that sounds brilliant.

Priest Simulator has a strange love story.
Work hard, play hard.

A complex control system. 

With many skills and abilities to master, Priest Simulator has a complex control system. With submenus to scroll through and plenty of options to select, it takes some getting used to. Thankfully, though, the slow levelling up and free-flowing action prevent this from becoming too challenging. Accordingly, you’ll master each element and become an ass-kicking priest in no time.

In its current build, there is limited replay value and longevity. However, with new content being added and a large world to play with, Priest Simulator has plenty of promise. At the moment, you’ll enjoy what you experience, but as it concludes, you’ll be left wanting more.

Priest Simulator is a strange insight into a religious lifestyle. 

Though Priest Simulator is entertaining, I’m not entirely sure it simulates a priest’s job. I may be wrong, but I’ve not seen too much violence after the weekly Sunday service. Yet, the lack of realism matters not as you’ll enjoy the weird and wonderful story that unfolds. It won’t be for everyone, but I loved its unusual plot. As such, I recommend you buy it here! Can you fake it until you make it? Perform exorcisms, appease your followers, and smite those that challenge you. 

News: Cyberpower

Daniel Waite
-
0
News: Cyberpower

It is the middle of October, so that can only mean one thing, yep, Hallo… I mean Christmas guides. With every major brand looking at the Christmas rush, my job is to highlight some of the best offers each company creates. So, today, we’re going to look at online retailer Cyberpower, and their incredibly eye-catching and powerful machines.

With many stunning options available on their website, it can be hard to choose which one you want. They offer a vast range of prebuilt laptops and PCs, as well as the option to design your own. However, being both knowledgeable and brave enough to pull the trigger can be a daunting task. Therefore, why not sit back, read this guide, and then give the helpful people of Cyberpower a nudge when you are ready to go ahead?

Christmas comes early at Cyberpower HQ.

I know what you are all thinking. It’s October, so what are you playing at? Well, some crazy people start Christmas shopping in January, so in comparison, you’re about 9 months late. However, stop worrying about this as Cyberpower has a deal that is hard to resist. Everyone loves the opportunity to win their money back, right? Well, once you’ve invested your hard-earned cash into your new shiny gaming PC or laptop, you can enter the draw to be given it all back. Yes, you read that right, you could get your brand-new device for absolutely nothing. Now, you may worry that it’ll be complicated, and they’ll want every detail of your existence to enter, but you’re wrong. By Following the 6 simple steps, you’ll be entered into the draw and all you must do is hope that luck is on your side.

  • Sign up between 12/10/2022 – 1/11/2022.
  • We’ll email you an exclusive code.
  • Between 2/11/2022 – 3/01/2023, purchase a system.
  • Enter your exclusive code at the checkout and place your order.
  • You’ll be entered automatically into the draw.
  • The winners will be announced by email on 4/01/2023.

What do we recommend?

The gaming market isn’t as simple as people think. As such, there are an array of gamers that have unique needs and different budgets. Furthermore, you simply may not know what you need, and you’ll feel way out of your depth. If this is the case, look no further as we talk you through some great options.

Infinity 125 RTX PCs.

These stylish and oh-so-powerful rigs are an absolute must for the FPS fan in your household. With the new Call of Duty just around the corner, they are sure to want to smash the opposition. Thankfully, the immense GPU and CPU combine to deliver a whopping 144FPS. Now, I’m sorry console players, but you won’t be able to compete! Accordingly, any gamer who uses this beast will be one step ahead of the competition. Click here for more information.

Ultra 45 RTX PC.

Maybe you are a savvy parent who wants to upgrade your children’s gaming rig. Well, if that’s you, or you simply want a machine that is capable of gaming and work, then the Ultra 45 RTX PC needs to be considered. With a top-end graphics card and rapid CPU, this machine will handle most tasks with ease. What’s more, it looks incredible and it can be combined with Cyberpower’s accessory bundle. Subsequently, you can complete the setup in one easy move. Click here for more information.

Ultra 55 RTX PC.

Now we get to the elephant in the room, and that is money. Maybe you want a high-end rig, but you worry about the cost. This is understandable, but don’t let unnecessary obstacles get in your way. Cyberpower has created the Ultra 55 RTX PC for casual gamers. This fantastic device offers fast performance, great graphics, and a head-turning case. As such, you’ll compete with the best gamers, but you won’t break the bank. Moreover, the well-rounded setup allows you to experience the best titles on offer with no compatibility issues. If this takes your fancy, click here!

Custom PCs.

One of the major joys of PC gaming is the creativity that comes with it. Consequently, you can create some works of art and Cyberpower are the best company to support those ideas. However, if you are unsure, or you don’t know your AMD from your Intel, then the sales experts are on hand to help. What’s more, you can use the handy Build my PC tool to point you in the right direction.

Prebuild PCs.

Maybe you are in a rush, or you don’t mind what components you have. If this is you, then you could consider one of the amazing Prebuilt PCs on offer. These market-leading machines have every top-end component you see in the other devices, but they are already built and ready to ship for Next-Day delivery [1]. This could be the perfect option for those that have limited time, a specific budget, or a lack of knowledge. Whatever the reason, you’ll be investing in an amazing machine that will be set up and ready to go the very next day.

Cyberpower offers a great range for everyone.

It’s rare that a company offers such a wide variety of machines. In my experience, not every avenue is exhausted, and not every consumer is accounted for. Yet, Cyberpower is different! With a range of PCs, laptops, and custom builds on offer, there really is something for everyone. Furthermore, if you sign up between 12/10/2022 -01-11-2022, and purchase a system between 2/11/2022 – 3/01/2023, you have the opportunity to win your money back. Consequently, if you are in the market for an amazing game-changing experience, then look no further than the knowledgeable people of Cyberpower.

(More information on Cyberpower can be found here!)

[1] Order by 2 pm (Monday-Friday), and they’ll prepare your system for next-day delivery, ready to plug in and play.

Review: Wayward Strand

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Wayward Strand

Life goes by so quickly. Without knowing it, time seeps away from us. Usually, we are so focused on our existence that we forget that others around us have interesting and fulfilling tales to tell. Wayward Strand incorporates this idea into its beautifully melancholy and touching story.

Developed and published by Ghost Pattern, this is a story-rich adventure RPG. It tells a familiar tale that will resonate with many gamers. However, its slow pace may be off-putting, and the lack of guidance or direction may also be disconcerting for some. I, however, enjoyed the freedom to explore, and I loved the zany and interesting characters I interacted with.

Wayward Strand lets you choose your adventure.

While many adventure titles ask you to follow a linear path, Wayward Strand is different. Yes, the game follows a set path, but the surrounding world is alive and ever-changing. Accordingly, you are free to see the world as you wish and speak to whoever takes your fancy. This was phenomenal, as you experienced a unique playthrough every time you picked up the game. Though the surroundings were familiar, your understanding of each relationship and the bond you build with them will alter. Therefore, you may see new things no matter how many times you play it.

The game follows a young girl named Casey Beaumaris. Casey loves her books and prefers them to the company of humans. However, in the summer of ’78, she has to make some sacrifices. For three days of her life, she must put down her books to help her mum in a floating hospital. Here, she will experience a new environment as she follows the residents of this unusual flying hotel. By helping out and talking to each patient, she gets a first-hand view of each personality and their hierarchical place. Determined to write a piece on what she sees and feels, Casey notes down every encounter, and this helps to build a beautiful understanding of each character and their view of the world.

Wayward Strand is full of interesting moments.
Visit the nurse station for all the gossip.

Wonderfully slow and rich.

Games like Wayward Strand are divisive. Their approach is so unusual that gamers don’t always appreciate the direction they are taking. Accordingly, it takes a bit of getting used to, especially if you expect it to be full of action and drama. Instead, what you find is a lethargic pace that uncovers key facts and interesting snippets of each person’s life. Subsequently, I adored how minor conversations opened up different paths with each protagonist. Moreover, the freedom to explore the airship, and to interact with whomever you wished, was refreshing.

Alongside this, I loved how you could follow each resident and eavesdrop on any conversation you’d like. By doing this, you identified key traits and hidden information that would otherwise be missed. What was also great was the eclectic blend of personalities you encountered. There was an atypical granny who has known you for years, a rude and unwelcoming doctor, a young lady who rarely speaks, and many, many more. By assisting each person, listening to their woes, or observing them from afar, you uncover what makes each person tick and why the community is so special.

This is what makes Wayward Strand a perfect adventure title. Every playthrough is unique, and though there were familiar moments, you never knew where the game would take you. You’d observe the residents doing their thing as you honed in on one particular person. However, if, at any point, you wished to change your approach and investigate another patient, you could do so with ease. You were never forced to explore one specific path, and how you wanted the game to evolve was entirely up to you.

It's rude to eavesdrop, but sometimes that's the only way to get juicy gossip.
Listen in and gather some intel.

Wayward Strand has an aged appearance.

Thanks to the grainy imagery and soft colour palette, Wayward Strand has an aged appearance. Everything about it screams 1970s, and I absolutely cherished this look. What’s more, the side-scrolling approach and relatively small airship were straightforward to explore. Consequently, it was easy to focus on each person’s story and this was great. On top of this, the simple UI and clear text made it a pleasure to look at. Another element that makes this stand out was the wonderful character models. Every person looked unique, and I adored the somewhat clichéd approach to some of the personalities. Consequently, the developers did a great job of ensuring that the action wasn’t repetitive and the surroundings were interesting to observe.

What was also fantastic was the calm and touching audio. The slow-paced soundtrack matched the laid-back action that unfolded. Furthermore, the acting was excellent, and this helped when there was a lull in the action. Each encounter was met with some witty, interesting, and brilliant conversations. Moreover, each of the patient’s personalities was delivered well, and it was easy to lose yourself in the strange and isolated floating world.

Listening to all the clues is the easiest way to build a picture.
Take your time and listen to every word.

Easy to control.

Ghost Pattern did a great job with their control setup. Thanks to the submenus, and excellent notebook function, it was a cinch to keep on top of all the information. What’s more, navigating the ship and conversing with each resident was straightforward. What was particularly great, however, was how immersive this approach was. Without realising it, your time would run out and this was the perfect metaphor for how quickly time can get away from you.

What was also interesting was how much replay value and longevity this simple concept has. With many patients to interact with and plenty of intertwined stories, you can play this repeatedly and experience something new. I loved this idea, as I adored each person’s traits and how they lived with one another. Furthermore, it was intriguing to see Casey develop as she discovered new things about herself from her short but eye-opening encounters.

Wayward Strand is great if you give it a chance.

If you dislike slow-burning plots, then Wayward Strand may not be for you. Yet, if you give it a chance, you’ll experience a story-rich title that will amuse and entertain you. I loved the stereotypical characters and the freedom to explore. Moreover, the ever-changing story and the free-flowing action caught my attention from the off. Though I appreciate that it won’t be for everyone, I still recommend that you buy it here! Can you help your mother aboard the floating hospital? Speak to each patient, understand their past, and see how each tale unfolds.

A Closer Look at Talking Biteysaurus Bing

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Talking Biteysaurus Bing

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Talking Biteysaurus Bing.

The ever-popular Bing’s snuggly soft delight in his Biteysaurus costume! Here, Biteysaurus Bing wears snug green pyjamas, removable mask and slippers to look like his toy dinosaur, Biteysaurus. But there’s more to this than meets the eye.

Press Bing’s right hand and you’re sure to find more fun. You can hear sounds and phrases from the TV show. Put the detachable Biteysaurus toy near Bing’s left hand for more sounds! The high-quality costume and easy-to-activate sounds make this a great addition to any Bing fans collection.

Beautifully made and wonderfully colourful in fleecy soft and textured fabric, this toy is great for daytime playtime and night-time cuddles. At 32cm tall, Bing Bunny is a perfect size – a really cute character. Any young Bing fans, toddlers and children aged 10 months, or more are sure to love this huggable Bing and Biteysaurus set.

Talking Biteysaurus Bing is available now priced around £35.99.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

A Closer Look at In the Night Garden Igglepiggle Blankie Bundle

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at In the Night Garden Igglepiggle Blankie Bundle

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at In the Night Garden Igglepiggle Blankie Bundle.

This beautiful Igglepiggle Super Soft Blankie Bundle is sure to become your little one’s favourite travel companion! This 2 in 1 plush toy is based on the lead character from the much loved and trusted CBeebies show, In the Night Garden.

Igglepiggle comes cocooned within his iconic red blankie; simply unravel to reveal the wonderfully soft and cuddly Igglepiggle toy and a detachable, oversized blankie made from our softest ever fabric. It’s guaranteed to provide lots of comfort and reassurance throughout the day and during that all-important bedtime routine.

Whether you are looking for a Birthday gift, Christmas gift or other event, the In the Night Garden Igglepiggle Blankie Bundle is perfect from birth onwards. Authentic In the Night Garden Toy: Based on the adorable lead character from the much loved and trusted CBeebies show, In the Night Garden.

In the Night Garden Igglepiggle Blankie Bundle is available now priced around £19.99.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

A Closer Look at the The Baby Club Baby Bear

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at the The Baby Club Baby Bear

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at The Baby Club Baby Bear.

Based on the super cute star of the ground-breaking CBeebies Show. The super soft baby bear soft toy features adorable character detail including his cute little nappy and friendly smile! Perfect for caregivers, fans of the show and little ones who want their very own Baby Bear friend!

The Baby Club is a ground-breaking TV show that brings the joy of baby groups home. Carers and babies come together and grow while exploring everyday objects through discovery, play, song and story. Enhancing child development, this fun and educational show features the adorable Baby Bear who is looked after by the presenters. The super soft baby bear soft toy features adorable character detail including his cute little nappy and friendly smile! Perfect for caregivers, fans of the show and little ones who want their very own Baby Bear friend! 

AUTHENTIC BABY CLUB TOY: Based on the super cute star of the ground-breaking CBeebies show. 

CUTE AND CUDDLY: Baby Bear is made of super soft fabric with beautiful fleecy nappy. 

HELPS CHILDREN DEVELOP: Baby Bear encourages children to learn and explore the curious world around them. 

IDEAL GIFT: Whether you are looking for a baby gift, Christening gift or a gift for a new parent, Baby Bear is perfect for caregivers and babies alike.

The Baby Club Baby Bear is available now priced around £15.00.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

A Closer Look at Hey Duggee Explore and Snore Camping Duggee

Andrew Edney
-
0
A Closer Look at Hey Duggee Explore and Snore Camping Duggee

With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Hey Duggee Explore and Snore Camping Duggee.

Bring some imaginative play along on their adventures with the Explore & Snore Camping Duggee With Stick toy by Hey Duggee.

– Dimensions: 19cm x 14cm x 30cm; Stick: 10cm
– Recycled woven construction
– Press the paw for “Woofs” and “Step By Step” song
– Roll into sleeping bag and press the zipper for more sounds
– Includes six nature detailed cards
– Requires two AAA batteries (not included)

If your child is a fan of Hey Duggee, then this would make a great Christmas present. Not only do you get a Duggee plush that sings and Woofs, you also get a mini Stick plush. Stick, Stick, Stick, Stick, Sticky, Sticky, Stick, Stick! And if you are not familiar with that song, look it up, you’ll thank me for it later.

Hey Duggee Explore and Snore Camping Duggee is available now priced around £35.99.

Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

1...243244245...1,615Page 244 of 1,615