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Review: PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller

Daniel Waite

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Jun 20, 2022

Review: PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller

Xbox gamers are spoilt by the vast selection of controllers on offer. However, no matter how many features they have, most look bland. PowerA bucks this trend with its affordable, stylish, and feature-packed accessories. I’ve recently looked at their Cuphead: Mugman and Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands pads. Therefore, when the PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller arrived, I instantly loved its style.

This lightweight, striking, and robust controller certainly stands out from the crowd. What’s more, you know it’s going to be great to use, and as comfortable as a Microsoft official controller. What I also adore is PowerA’s fantastic customer service. Their responsive team takes all enquiries seriously and aims to help everyone the best they can. So, shall we cut to the chase and look at this in more detail?

The PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller looks fantastic. — Such a stylish looking controller.

What’s in the box of the PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller?

The packaging is sturdy, colourful, and amazing to look at. Furthermore, it has a unique magnetised flap that hides the contents. Once opened, there is some interesting information on the controller and some key selling points. However, I was disappointed by the plastic packaging. I wish PowerA would swap to an easier-to-recycle product.
The PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller. This lightweight but well-built pad takes influence from its game. With Ms Chalice emblazoned on the left-hand side, and some cartoon imagery stencilled elsewhere, it looks fantastic. Moreover, it has a useful audio wheel, a 3.5mm audio jack, and 2 mappable buttons.
Micro USB-B charging cable. This 10-foot rubberised cable is flexible and made to last. It is painted a greeny-blue colour and matches the controller.
User guide. A small but easy-to-read guide. It helps you understand the fundamentals of mapping the additional buttons.

Technical aspects.

Compatability	Xbox and Microsoft devices.
Wireless	No
Connectivity	Wired
Bluetooth	No
Battery	No
Audio	3.5mm jack
Audio ccontrols	Quick response dial.
Mappable buttons	Yes
Warranty	Two-year limited.

The best controllers are those that are comfortable and easy to use. Luckily, the PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller ticks these boxes. Though it is lighter than the official pad, it still feels solid and hard-wearing. This is important whenever you are playing sports or FPS titles, as you don’t want it to break during a heavy session.

Alongside this, you want the pad to react to the action on the screen. Fortunately, the dual rumble motors does just that. With a strong vibration setting, you feel every shot, tumble, and explosion in every game you play. However, it wasn’t too powerful and PowerA has got the balance just right.

No one wants to stop gaming to adjust audio settings. Therefore, it was impressive that a quick-response dial was incorporated. This simple-to-use switch allows you to balance your audio with ease. What’s more, there is a one-touch mic mute option. Consequently, you can focus on the action and not on your settings.

Finally, the well-placed mappable buttons are tactile and light to use. They sit on the back part of the shell directly in the middle. This was the perfect placement as your fingers naturally rested there. Each of the buttons can be mapped on the fly, and this keeps you ahead of the competition.

Is the PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller worth it?

Retailing at £34.99 or $39.99 it is great value for money. What’s more, a two-year limited warranty enhances this further still. On top of this, it can be used for Xbox and any Windows device. Subsequently, this makes it useful for gamers who play on multiple platforms.

What’s also great is the detachable cable. Now, this may seem a minor thing, but it is not. If this monstrous cable becomes damaged, you can simply buy a new one. This is fantastic, as it prevents you from having to buy a completely new unit. Alongside this, the familiar share button allows you to screenshot and record. This isn’t a new feature, but it is popular and useful when bragging to friends.

Like its counterparts, I loved the PowerA Xbox Series X/S Cuphead: Ms Chalice controller. It looks funky, is easy to use, and has mappable buttons. For these reasons, I recommend you to buy it here!

Summary.

PowerA produces some amazing great value products. Moreover, their customer service is second to none. Consequently, you can rest assured that you have peace of mind and a quality accessory. I adored the look, build quality, and advanced features of this standout controller.

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

Review: Fillit

Xavier Berry

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Jun 19, 2022

0

Fillit is an extremely simple game that offers countless hours of fun with an extremely simplistic concept. Published and developed by 11sheep, Fillit runs for 7.99 USD on steam and is more than a generous price for the countless hour’s players will get from the game.

Fillit markets itself as a game inspired by things such as Xonix and Volfied, tasking players with the job of trying to navigate a dot across the map while trying to capture as much of the space as possible. This is done when a line is drawn from one wall to another and can even be used to redirect the path of the enemies, letting players formulate different approaches to getting higher scores. There is no story mode to focus on so the best way to look at the game is through the lens of something to pass the time by. I went from mindlessly going through levels to really trying to get a higher score than my previous attempts. As players progress through the stages, the game introduces new obstacles and enemies to hinder the players’ progress. With 96 levels for players to progress through in the single player mode, there is a lot to be done if there is nothing in your steam library that is catching the players attention at the moment. This is a good way to pass the time without having to get too involved in a convoluted story or complex battle system which can trap players for hours.

For those looking for a multiplayer experience Fillit offers both competitive and cooperative modes for couch co-op fun. The competitive mode pits two players against one another in a race to see who can clear most of the board while still navigating the enemies on screen and collecting the stars scattered about to help boost their score. If competition is out of the question, there is a together mode with over 40 levels of co-op fun to be had.

Overall, Fillit has a simple look and even simpler gameplay that will suck players in for what feels like an unknown amount of time while they try to finish a level. Every time I revisited the game to get screen shots or find out more from the game, time flew by while my little puck danced and dodged around enemy attacks. The vibrant colors and fluid controls really helps bring everything together and this is one of those games that would be great as apart of a bundle or to catch on sale. 11sheep really managed to create a game that will grab the players attention and not let go until they find themselves say “oh but just one more level and I’ll be done”. In a world where games are always trying to chase a new fad and latch on to them for dear life, it is refreshing to play something on the simpler side of things.

Review: Skábma – Snowfall

James Refelian

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Jun 19, 2022

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Skábma – Snowfall is an adventure puzzle game developed by the Finnish indie developer, Red Stage Entertainment. It’s the only game I know that is based on the Sámi people and tells the wonderful story of Áilu, a reindeer herder who goes on a mystical adventure to learn the ways of their ancestors, harness the powers of the Noaidi Drum and Familiar Spirits to fight off a disorder threatening to destroy the lands.

Gameplay

Skábma – Snowfall is an adventure puzzle game with a difference. The world is your obstacle as you would expect but it isn’t full of things trying to kill you. In fact, there are no real traditional enemies to speak of. Rather, the world is being infested and it’s that which will kill you. As a result, exploration and narrative is the main point of the game. You will explore the world and learn more about it as well as the stories of Sámi and Noaidi.

The puzzles in the game are environmental in nature, traversing the world can be challenging in places and will sometimes require a good deal of exploring to find the right path. The abilities you learn along the way also get used for this purpose. Moving objects and jumping bigger distances for example. This can lead to very challenging jumping puzzles which can get frustrating if you don’t time them well.

As well as the main story quest, to save the land, there are a lot of little side-quests for Áilu to complete on their journey across the land. For example, your favourite cousin will want help finding her lost bunnies. Early in the game, you will get an ancient drum that will help you do a lot of different things. From using it to control your new special abilities to following the paths of bunnies and people so you can find your way. The drum will also draw your attention to the spirits living in certain trees that you can interact with, heal you and highlight treasures in the world that you can collect.

The Story of Skábma – Snowfall

The story focuses on a young Sámi child named Áilu who lives with his family in a small village. Áilu starts the game as a simple reindeer farmer until an explosion in the nearby tar pit brings a plague on this tranquil world. Áilu initially sets out to find a missing reindeer and is quickly drawn into an adventure to discover his heritage and save the land and his family.

Along the way, he finds a Noaidi drum and through that can connect with the world on a deeper level. From talking to tree spirits who haven’t heard people for so long through to the four familiars, Áilu is equipped to learn the ways of the past to save the future.

The story is gripping and full of cultural history and fairy-tale lore. It’s beautifully written and subtitled (the voice acting is in a different language). Every interaction feels meaningful, especially with the small cast of wonderful characters. At no point during my playthrough did I feel bored or want to skip dialogue. The whole thing is simply charming.

Controls

The controls in Skábma – Snowfall are simple to master. It’s the usual WASD layout with the mouse moving the camera. It’s a familiar setup so jumping right in and enjoying the game is easy without needing to master lots of different controls, breaking that initial immersion. Along the way, you gain some new abilities, and these are well explained with a simple and clean UI. You also get the tutorial for these new abilities tied directly into the plot making it all feel natural and seamless.

While for the most part, you control the direction of the camera, which allows you to see what you’re doing and where you’re going more easily (not to mention enjoy the beautiful world!) there are times when the camera will be fixed, and this can make movement difficult in places. It’s a minor gripe, but an issue, nonetheless.

Similarly, there are a few bugs that can make you fall off the world despite doing nothing wrong. As a platformer with jumping puzzles when the pathing isn’t quite right it can feel a bit clunky to navigate at times.

Graphics and Music

Graphically, the world is stunning. One of the most beautiful I’ve seen in a game this year. While the visuals certainly don’t live up to one of the leading AAA titles in terms of visual performance, they are charming and a joy to look at. The character models are soft around the edges, and everything has a slight cartoon look to it.

What Skábma – Snowfall does so well is draw you into the world to the point the world is almost as important as the cast of characters. You can interact with spirits in trees, explore plains, mountains, rivers, and more. It’s a wonderful world to get lost in, and a relaxing one too.

The music matches the overall feel of the game very well. In addition, a lot of your path mapping and powers come through beating a traditional drum which in turn gives an interesting soundtrack to play with.

Is Skábma – Snowfall a good game?

I was genuinely surprised by this indie game. Skábma – Snowfall is a beautifully written story blending important environmental messages with learning about a little-known culture. Overlaying all of that is a story about a boy reconnecting with his heritage to save his world with elements of fairy-tale, myth, and mysticism. The puzzles are fun, the powers are unique and interesting, and even without conventional enemies to fight it’s probably the best game I’ve played so far this year.

Skábma – Snowfall makes tranquil, puzzle-based exploration compelling. For that reason, despite a few bugs, it’s a game I recommend.

Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

Cody May

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Jun 19, 2022

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Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

Cowabunga Dudes! The turtles are back in beautiful, brawler fashion with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge from developer Tribute Games. Tribute Games are no strangers to beat ’em up games; Justin Cyr, one of the founders having worked on Scott Pilgrim vs the World. Therefore, for many, this was a dream game, and ever since the reveal, fans have been hungry to dive in.

Tribute games are tremendously talented, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is without a doubt their best game. Not only is it their best game, but it’s one of the best games to launch in 2022. If you enjoy beat ’em up games, including some of the original turtle titles like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time, I absolutely cannot recommend this game enough. It’s fun, it’s chaotic, and it’s never felt better to kick some shell!

Evolving a Genre

The gameplay in Shredder’s Revenge takes everything you love about beat ’em up games and evolves it for the modern age. Each turtle has their strengths and weaknesses, Michelangelo, my favorite of all the turtles, has tremendous speed coupled with his outlandish personality. Donatello has outstanding range attacks, which makes attacking enemies from a safe distance viable.

I think Tribute Games did a stellar job with making each character feel fun and different to use, and they did so by paying attention to the little things. Whether it’s Donatello whipping out a Game Boy during his taunt, Raphael’s always serious scowl, or Leonardo being the only turtle with a flipping sword attack coming out of a double jump. They each feel distinct, down to their individual quirks, which is how the Turtles and their supporting cast should be.

It’s not just the characters, but the world that also got the same attention to detail. This game has some phenomenal enemy variety. I never got tired of fighting, partly because the combat in this game is just that good, but also because I felt like something new was always being thrown at me. Whether it was a multitude of ninjas, each with a different fighting style, or more wackier enemies like big dinosaurs that wield rocket launchers or pizza monsters that come out of the ground.

Audio and Visual

The visuals and sound design in Shredder’s Revenge are top notch. The pixel art is superb, and it’s combined with an equally great 90’s fueled score. The animations are slick, nothing feels out of place, and you feel the punch with every encounter.

Cooperative play

If you ‘ve thought about jumping into Shredder’s Revenge solo, I implore you to get a few of your buddies and play CO-OP. I’m sure the game is still fun by yourself, but I think you would be doing yourself a disservice. I played with my best friends Skylar and Alex, and it was a pizza-fueled joy ride from beginning to end.

Shredder’s revenge CO-OP is the most fun YOU’LL HAVE GAMING WITH YOUR FRIENDS IN 2022.

Closing Remarks

For many of us, the Turtles have a special place in our hearts. Some found them in movies; some found them on TV, or maybe even in the arcade all those years ago. Whatever the case, I think we can all agree that this IP is special, and it’s a shame they don’t have as strong a presence in pop culture as they once did.

All they needed was a talented team to come along, and utilize all of their best strengths in one package, showcasing what makes this universe so remarkable. Tribute Games were that team, and they succeeded. This game isn’t a big budget AAA title, that is trying to be something it’s not; it is what it is, and it excels at that.

Tribute Games have made what I now consider to be the gold standard for Beat ’em up games, and anyone who attempts to follow them up must aspire beyond the high bar that is Shredder’s Revenge. So, what are you waiting for? Get some buddies together, and go clean up the streets of New York City, as the unparalleled Heroes in a Half-Shell!

Review: Thunder Kid II: Null Mission

Daniel Waite

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Jun 19, 2022

0

Low-poly gaming reminds me of the Sega Saturn and late 80s entertainment. Its simple but garish approach is tough to look at, but it fills you with nostalgia. Therefore, when I was offered Thunder Kid II: Null Mission, I thought, why not. Having covered its predecessor a while back, I had high hopes this would be an improvement. Would the team behind the original listen to the feedback, or will it be much the same?

Developed by Renegade Sector Games and Eastasiasoft Limited and published by the latter, this is a run and gun title. What’s more, it has an arcade edge, is distinctly retro, and uses an obscene plot. Consequently, it has 80s vibes, is tough to look at, and is brutal on your eardrums. However, I wasn’t willing to let that put me off.

Some enemies will just keep shooting. — Dodge and weave the projectiles.

Thunder Kid II: Null Mission lacks depth.

Like the original, Thunder Kid II: Null Mission seriously lacks depth. Its simple concept, repetitive gameplay, and lack of progression hold it back. On top of this, your enemies are weak, the levels are too basic, and the bosses are simply annoying. In short, it repeats the shortcomings of its predecessor. Subsequently, I was disappointed! I expected it to evolve past its understated fundamentals, but this never happened.

Though the concept failed to excite me, I loved the story. You take control of Thunder Kid as he aims to protect humanity again. This overpowered superhero won’t stop until everyone is safe. Thankfully, he steps up as the Robot Empire has returned. Accordingly, they have kidnapped every human and wish to take over planet Earth. Conveniently, however, they left Thunder Kid behind and they’ll rue this mistake. You must traverse 7 worlds, annihilate every foe, and send the Robot Empire packing.

Avoid the bullets and stay on the platforms.

Shoot and dodge.

The run and gun genre is renowned for its basic qualities. But, Thunder Kid II: Null Mission takes it too far. Each stage comprises an array of arenas connected by corridors. As you enter each one, you are faced with obstacles and foes. These must be overcome and then the action begins again. You’ll encounter flying machines, turrets, lasers, and grunts. Yet, with predictable movement and repetitive attack patterns, they offer little challenge. Sadly, the same can be said for the obstacles. These mind-numbingly simple obstructions are avoided easily. It was disappointing as you sauntered through each arena. I was desperate to be challenged, but this didn’t materialise.

The predictable nature of your foes was tedious. Consequently, the main mechanics of shooting and dodging were underwhelming. With some thought process and a little tactical nuance, you flew through every stage. Now, I’m not saying it needs to be the Dark Souls of the run and gun genre, but it’s too easy.

Alongside this, it is filled with bugs and glitches. First, the achievements don’t unlock. I understand this isn’t a major thing, but it is annoying nonetheless. Second, the environment sometimes kills you, and sometimes it doesn’t. Therefore, you never know what will happen. Finally, on one particular level, you become stuck in the rivers. This was annoying, as progression was nigh on impossible. These issues need resolving ASAP, otherwise, many players will be disgruntled.

Thunder Kid II: Null Mission is wonderfully dated.

Low-poly isn’t for everyone, but I love it. There is something about its blocky imagery and garish tones. Luckily, Thunder Kid II: Null Mission captures this perfectly on every level. Furthermore, it was interesting to play with a unique look for each world and different character models. My only concern was depth perception. Sometimes it was tough to judge distances, and this made it more frustrating. However, this is a small price to pay for such a retro treat.

The audio enhances the old-school appeal further, still. Thanks to its ear-splitting tunes and loud sound effects, is brilliantly dated. What’s more, the synth sounds capture the era while maintaining the theme.

Thunder Kid II: Null Mission has a small amount of collectables to find. — Kill the enemies and grab the coin.

A simple concept = simple controls.

Though I’ve been critical of many elements, the controls were great. Unsurprisingly, its simplicity makes it easy to play. However, they could have been awful. Luckily, though, they are well-considered and make up for some of the shortcomings.

With a serious lack of depth, no character progression, and no additional modes, there is no replay value. Therefore, understandably, this impacts the longevity of an already short title. On top of this, the glitched achievement list makes it less desirable.

Thunder Kid II: Null Mission takes a backward step.

It’s rare that a sequel doesn’t evolve. But, Thunder Kid II: Null Mission takes a backward step. Nearly every aspect is worse than the original, and this is disappointing. I had high hopes, but they were crushed almost immediately. It is for this reason that I can’t recommend you to buy it! Yet, information regarding the title can be found here. Humanity is in trouble and a hero must come forward. Thankfully Thunder Kid is around to save the day in this easy and underwhelming affair.

Review: Gravitar: Recharged

Daniel Waite

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Jun 18, 2022

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Arcade gaming has always been popular. However, more recently there has been an upsurge of classic titles hitting the market. Thanks to Atari’s Recharged series, older and younger gamers can enjoy the early 80s titles. I’ve loved every game in this series, so I had high hopes for Gravitar: Recharged.

Developed by Adamvision Studios and SneakyBox, and published by Atari, this is an arcade shooter. It captures the masterful mechanics of the original, but it has a modern aesthetic, smooth gameplay, and plenty of new challenges to overcome. What’s more, it can be played solo and cooperatively, and this makes it better still.

Destroying the reactor is a staple mission of Gravitar: Recharged — Destroy that reactor.

Gravitar: Recharged tells a sci-fi tale.

You are a lone pilot light-years from home who must navigate uncharted territories. Consequently, you must stay alert as you leap from solar system to solar system. With deadly aliens, awful traps, and gravity to battle, you will be tested to your limits. Sadly, there is no backup or reinforcements to call upon. Therefore, it is you and your vessel against a mysterious and aggressive alien foe.

Wow, the 80s knew how to write a dramatic story. Yet, it plays second fiddle to the action that unfolds. You must complete a small selection of missions as you investigate each solar system. These comprise intel runs, all-out warfare, destruction of property, and more. Whatever your mission, gravity will hold you back! Why? You may think. Well, every planet’s gravitational pull is different. Subsequently, you must use all your skills to fly past every obstacle. In theory, it should be easy. In reality, it’ll drive you mad. You’ll fly into rocks, fall down into crevices, and make repeated errors. Yet, you’ll adore the madness and the tough action.

So many planets to pick from. — Find a planet and complete the mission.

Challenges, oh so many challenges.

The core concept reflects the original game’s ideas. But, Gravitar: Recharged ups the ante. With an array of challenges and gameplay-altering options, you are in for a treat. Yes, the mechanics are similar, but you have a distinct goal to achieve. Now, I found this rigid approach much more rewarding. It was pleasant to have a task to work towards, rather than aiming for a high score. What’s more, when working with a friend, it felt more tactical.

If you are a purist, you’ll adore the arcade action. This is because it is fast-paced, true to the original format, and it contains more surprises. However, I enjoyed the goal-based focus of the challenge mode. Alongside this, pushing myself to complete each of the 24 missions was tough. Luckily, though, I was helped by some OTT weapon upgrades.

A Recharged game would be nothing without power-ups. Fortunately, Gravitar: Recharged keeps up this tradition. With EMP grenades, homing missiles, tractor beams and more, you’ll annihilate your foes. These timed weapon boosts are key to your success, but so is your fuel. Canisters containing fuel are dotted around every planet. If you fail to collect them, you can kiss goodbye to that run. Annoyingly, the aliens love to destroy your supply, so be quick before they ruin your life.

Gravitar: Recharged looks great.

What I love about the Recharged series is the modern take on a classic look. Gravitar: Recharged is no exception, as it looks great. Underneath, it retains its classic old-school charm. However, its neon-infused vehicles and bright and clean-cut environments bring it right up to date. What’s more, it runs perfectly with no frame rate drops or stuttering.

What’s also amazing is the eerie sci-fi audio. The haunting yet calm music is at odds with the hellish battles. Alongside this, the sound effects are varied, loud, and match the theme. The noise of laser beams, explosions, and sirens punctuates the serene soundtrack. This was phenomenal, as it adds energy to the hectic encounters.

Gravitar: Recharged is filled with danger. — Destroy the alien ship and avoid the lasers.

Simple arcade controls.

Though much of Gravitar: Recharged has been modernised, the controls are not. Subsequently, focusing on the retro arcade approach was absolutely right. What’s more, they are responsive and their simplicity makes it easy to play.

The original was addictive and unsurprisingly, Gravitar: Recharged is as well. Its fast-paced action, tricky flying and challenging missions make it a winner. Combine this with the cooperative gameplay, and leaderboards to top, and you get the perfect mix. Furthermore, it can be tackled casually, and that’s always a good thing.

Gravitar: Recharged is a modern classic.

Arcade gaming will never get old. Consequently, Gravitar: Recharged is a modern classic. It captures the essence of the original while polishing it for a younger audience. Veterans and newcomers will adore its sci-fi action and challenging ways. For these reasons, I recommend you to buy it here! Can you complete your mission, defeat the aliens, and return home? Well, who knows? But, if you can’t, no one will save you.

Review: RiotPWR ESL controller

Daniel Waite

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Jun 17, 2022

0

I’ve looked at many mobile gaming solutions. From the MOGA 2.0 gaming clip to the Backbone, Nacon MG-X, and finally the Gamesir X2 Lightning. These accessories all have pros and cons, but I’ve been impressed with each one. Today, I get to try out the RiotPWR ESL controller. This version is for iOS with its built-in lightning cable. However, an Android USB-C version is also available.

So, what makes this controller stand out from its peers? Well, first, it uses a traditional approach and doesn’t have a compact design. Second, it is super vivid with its eye-catching livery. Finally, it has no battery and is powered by your mobile device. Each of these elements is about to be dissected, so let’s jump on in.

What’s in the box of the RiotPWR ESL controller?

The packaging is compact, stylish, and clean. It utilises the Xbox colour scheme and displays plenty of key selling points. What’s more, it is sturdy and the contents are well-protected. Importantly, it is easily recyclable as well.
The RiotPWR ESL controller. This Xbox-inspired controller has a lightning charging point, and 3.5mm audio jack, and is well built. Its button placement and features match a modern Xbox controller and are comfortable in your hand. Furthermore, it has a 2-3-foot lightning cable made from a rubberised material.
Information card. With scannable codes, you can download the user manual and gaming guide in seconds.

Technical aspects.

Compatability	Apple: iPad and iPhone
Connectivity	No Bluetooth, lightning wired only
Wire length	2-3 feet
Battery	No
App	Yes, Ludu Mapp
Audio	3.5mm jack
Charging point	Pass-through charging via the lightning port.

Wired gaming offers a superior latency-free experience. Thanks to the premium wired lightning connection, you’ll enjoy responsive controls. Alongside this, you needn’t worry about Bluetooth pairing. Accordingly, the plug-and-play feature gets you started immediately.

No battery = no problem! The RiotPWR ESL controller is charged from your mobile device. Fortunately, the low power draw ensures that your battery isn’t compromised during long sessions. However, if you run short on juice, it matters not. Thanks to its pass-through charging, you can power your mobile and keep gaming.

Social gaming and a helpful app.

The ability to stream and upload footage is a must. Thanks to the well-placed share button, this is easily achieved. On top of this, you can download the FOC Ludu Mapp App. This excellent tool helps you with multiple upload functions. Not only is it great for your socials, but it also contains helpful gaming information.

The app highlights over 1000 iOS games and apps that are fully controller compatible. Now, this may seem like a small thing, but it is not. This feature is convenient, easy to use, and is an absolute game-changer.

Overall impressions.

When taking a controller out with me, it needs to look great and must be robust. Luckily, the RiotPWR ESL controller does just that. With its white, green, and yellow design, and sturdy plastic shell, it is made to last and impress.

The button layout, analogue movement, and weight are on point. It has the same reassuring tactile feel as the official Microsoft accessory and is comfortable to use. However, it has a few design flaws that hold it back.

The Shortcomings!

The removable gaming clip is designed for mobile phones and sits over the controller buttons. Unlike the MOGA 2.0 gaming clip, this one obstructs your view of the pad and impacts the placement of your hands. If a higher position had been used, it would have been more flexible and comfortable.

The cable is ridiculously long and is permanently in view as you look at the screen. Now, I understand it has a multi-faceted approach for use with an iPad and other mobile devices. However, this is still an overkill. With masses of cable dangling next to your mobile screen, it looks unsightly and unprofessional.

This issue could have been easily resolved with a removable cable. This would have ensured it had a tidier finish and it could have been used for both Android and iOS. Moreover, damage to the cable will render the accessory defunct. This is a massive oversight and could cause problems down the line.

Is the RiotPWR ESL controller worth it?

So, we know what the controller is capable of, but is it worth the asking price? At $59.99 it is quite pricey, but it is cheaper than the Backbone, Nacon MG-X, and the Gamesir X2 Lightning. Therefore, it is good value in comparison. Yet, the MOGA 2.0 gaming clip and an official controller cost about the same. Consequently, it is probably a little on the sleep side. However, I still loved it and I recommend that you buy it here! Or, you can purchase it from Amazon!

Summary.

Though there were some niggles and design flaws, the RiotPWR ESL controller is a good purchase. It is sturdy and looks great. You must also consider its user-friendly and informative app and its excellent sharing features. It sits between the silver and gold awards, but I believe a generous gold award is deserved. If you want a traditional controller exclusively for mobile gaming, then look no further.

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

The RiotPWR ESL controller is awarded a generous Movies Games and Tech Gold award.

Review (Early Access): V Rising

Lee Fairweather

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Jun 16, 2022

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When I first watched the trailer for V Rising, I wasn’t particularly enthralled with what I’d seen. This was because I had recently finished a 400 hour-long playthrough of Lost Ark. By that point, I was ready to take a break from the ARPG genre for the foreseeable future. At least, that was my plan.

A friend of mine, in his constant grind to find co-op games to play, decided that we were going to give V Rising a chance. After some fairly light hearted coercing on his part, I finally caved in and purchased my copy. Thankfully, this turned out to be a great decision.

Stunlock Studios, the developers and publishers of V Rising, have created a gothic world full to the brim with content. You play as a Vampire who has recently been resurrected after centuries of slumber. Like other games in the survival crafting genre, you have to gather resources, build up your base and, of course, survive the perils of the world.

Gameplay

Combat

The isometric viewpoint of V Rising allows for gameplay scenarios seldom seen in the genre. For instance, combat sequences take full advantage of the perspective with attacks and projectiles firing at you from all angles. This leads to some intense moments, which, ultimately, feel more rewarding as you are solely reliant on your skills to overcome each obstacle.

What’s more, you never feel as though the game is working against you. All movement options are fluid and seamless. You can dodge out of the way by dashing in one direction, then rotate your camera to sprint towards an isolated enemy. The best description I can give is that it feels incredibly natural to perform.

There are two main ways of fighting in V Rising. You have general weapons like swords and crossbows, each of which have their own attack pattern and style. There is enough variance amongst them that you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy.

You also have access to various spell schools. These include blood, frost, unholy, chaos and illusion. They all share similar ideologies when it comes to how they act, but it’s the underlying effect that change depending on the school it belongs too. For example, frost will slow a target making it easier to kite around them, whereas blood will allow you to sap life out of your enemies.

Spells vary from offensive to defensive. They cover everything from fireballs, which do AoE damage, to counters, which stun your enemies upon being hit. You are also free to change your spells out whenever you want, meaning you can always choose the optimal setup for any given fight.

Survival

V Rising does a fantastic job of leaning into the vampire aesthetic. Things like walking into direct sunlight will cause your character to starting burning. You have to avoid this by walking in between shaded spots in the daytime, or waiting until nightfall.

The standard food and water meters, seen in the likes of Ark: Survival Evolved, have been ditched in place of a blood gauge. Preforming any action will cause this to slowly deplete over time. It’s up to you to maintain it by finding victims to feed off of. Thankfully, there are plenty of humans, animals and other creatures around to quench your thirst.

Although the blood gauge is a nice stylistic choice, it also directly impacts your character as well. Depending on the level of the creature you feed from, you’ll be given certain bonuses. These can include things like extra life regain, increased damage, or resistance to the sun. On top of this, you can use your blood gauge to restore some of your health in the heat of battle.

Building

Staying with the vampire themes, V Rising allows you to build the gothic castle of your dreams. The isometric camera makes this insanely easy to do. You start by placing down a ‘Castle Heart’ which provides you with your own plot of land to build on. You then use the grid like system to build your home in any way you desire. The system is very user friendly, and if you do happen to make a mistake, you can simply undo it to gain your resources back.

Gathering materials in this game isn’t a tedious venture either. You often gain the resources you need just by playing the game normally. If it still seems to slow to you, then you can simply up the drop rate in the server options menu.

Progression

You progress through the game by defeating an array of powerful bosses. These reward you with new item recipes, spells, and things like workstations to craft gear on. While you can technically attempt to fight any boss you want at any given time, you’ll find that it is nigh on impossible to do so without reaching that bosses level first.

Levelling up in V Rising isn’t done through the usual XP system. Instead, your level is strictly tied to the weapons and armour you currently have equipped. This means you’re only as powerful as the last boss you defeated. As such, it’s more beneficial to go through the bosses in order to receive your next appropriate gear upgrade.

To keep this from feeling repetitive, each boss has their own unique move set. These sequences include varying mechanics for you to learn which push your character to their upmost limit. You can either play V Rising in a PvP or PvE world as the game does a fantastic job at catering to both sides. You also have the choice to play with friends or on your own, both of which share an equally enjoyable experience.

Art and Audio

The art direction complements the medieval and gothic vibes perfectly. The environments range from dense forests to lush fields, and, in a really cool design choice, change dramatically depending on the time of day. Towns and settlements are seemingly inspired by the likes of Dracula, with cobblestone roads and looming Victorian-esque houses. These all provide the perfect playground to reek havoc on your unsuspecting prey.

Audio wise, there isn’t too much to say. The soundtrack blends into the background and elevates the idea that you’re playing as a heinous vampire. Similarly, the sound effects resonate well with what is transpiring on screen, and have been recorded satisfactorily.

Conclusion

In a market muddled with subpar survival games, V Rising is a noticeable step above the rest. The vampire aesthetic is executed upon phenomenally well, and the ARPG mechanics match the themes to perfection. Progression and base building are intuitively designed, and feature some nice range of depth to them. All in all, this is a superb game and a much-welcomed change of pace. It should only serve to get better once it eventually leaves early access.

Review: Flippin Kaktus

Daniel Waite

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Jun 16, 2022

0

80s gaming has got a lot to answer for. Yes, it created some of the best and most original pieces, but it’s also responsible for some insane projects. Consequently, when a developer is inspired by this era, you never know what will happen. Flippin Kaktus is one such game that is hard-hitting and bloody bizarre.

Developed by Rage++ and published by No Gravity Games, this is a tactical platform adventure title. It has an aggressive story, a wild west theme, and plenty of violence. What’s more, it caters to calm minds and angry individuals. Subsequently, there are endless approaches to each stage, and this makes it unique and addictive.

Flippin Kaktus is unforgiving.

Now, I’ve played some tough titles. Only recently I’ve reviewed TEN and I thought that was hard enough. However, my punishment continues as I grind my way through Flippin Kaktus. This unforgiving title will chew you up, spit you out, and stomp on your carcass. Therefore, understandably, my screams of rage were all par for the course! Though there are plenty of tools and techniques to overcome every problem, it’s still brutal. Accordingly, you’ll rage quit more than normal while vowing never to return.

The story behind Flippin Kaktus is one of drugs, anger, and revenge. When the Calaveras drugs cartel raids the hero’s home, he goes berserk. He must save his foster family from this evil organisation no matter the cost. At heart, he is a mellow cactus who wants a quiet life. Yet, there is a rage inside of him that is uncontrollable. When he breaks, you better watch out! If you are in his way, you’ll be annihilated. It is this power that he must now harness if he is to save the day.

The softly, softly approach isn't always viable. — Destroy the barrels and carve a new path.

Softly, softly, or all-out warfare.

Flippin Kaktus is a game of many choices. The hero can use the environment and the interactive objects to his advantage. If he does this, he’ll avoid their attention like a green spikey ninja. You can wear a sombrero, hide behind bushes, push crates, dive into barrels, wear armour, and more as you hide in the shadows. However, this option is risky. Not only does it require perfection, but you must also test your reactions. Moreover, if you are spotted, you’ll have to avoid bullets, leap cattle prods, and run for your life. On top of this, there are falling bridges, spiked traps, flamethrowers, and more.

If the softly, softly approach isn’t your style, then worry not. Rage and revenge go hand in hand, and this is a fantastic thing. Simply allow yourself to be kicked by a donkey, and the party begins. The hero will see red and can destroy anything in his way. However, the rage power is short-lived, so you have to be careful. What’s more, it also leaves you with one bar of health. Therefore, you must be mindful of your approach, otherwise, you will die.

Whichever option you choose, they are both viable paths. Moreover, experimenting with different styles was half the fun. Furthermore, the difficulty of the gameplay ensures that you will die. Accordingly, you lose little by trying out different styles. I thought this concept was fantastic, and though it was a little unorthodox, it works perfectly with the maddening action.

Boom, boom, boom, Flippin Kactus is full of surprises. — Watch it rain hell-fire!!!

Graphically, Flippin Kaktus is disappointing.

I’m not usually fussed about graphics, but Flippin Kaktus disappointed me. Its dated style, pixelated imagery, and simple level design are underwhelming. Furthermore, the lack of detail was disappointing, and I yearned for much more. With such an interesting concept, the developers could have been more experimental and risqué. However, instead, you are treated to clichéd worlds and insipid characters.

This sadly leaches into the audio. The Western-themed music works well but lacks a cutting edge. What’s more, it is devoid of energy and this makes the gameplay feel flat. Alongside this, the sound effects lack oomph and each weapon appears bland. Again, it was a shame, as there was potential for a great experience.

Dark and mysterious levels await you on your journey. — Dark and mysterious levels await you.

A supertanker is more accurate.

Tight and responsive controls are the minimum standard for platforming titles. Annoyingly, Flippin Kaktus lumbers along like a sloth. Its unresponsive controls have the accuracy of a supertanker. Consequently, death is a certainty and frustration is all but assured. With some minor tweaks, it could be vastly improved.

Thanks to its two unique approaches, there is some longevity and replay value. However, because of its shortcomings, you may not wish to return. I adored the interesting ideas, but I was disappointed by much of the action. Therefore, I struggled with the idea of playing it repeatedly.

Flippin Kaktus is an underwhelming retro title.

I wish I could be more positive, but I can’t. Flippin Kaktus should have been a great retro experience. Yet, it left me wanting so much more. Sadly, it’s flawed in many ways because of its cumbersome controls. If this issue can be addressed, the game would be vastly improved. I can’t recommend it, but more information can be found here! Revenge and rage go hand in hand, but will you take a stealthier approach?

Review: Dungeon Defenders Awakened

Alex Chessun

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Jun 16, 2022

0

Jumping into a new gaming franchise for the first time can be a daunting task. Whether it’s a series that’s 7 story games long or a sports franchise that’s been running for 30 years, getting up to speed is a challenge.

With that in mind, today’s challenge is Dungeon Defenders Awakened, the 3^rd game in a 4+ game copy-paste tower defense franchise.

If there’s anything that makes this challenge slightly easier to bare, however, it’s the fact that the developer – Chromatic – always releases these games on Steam first and foremost, giving console owners an interesting look-see behind the curtain of development and that rare opportunity to see how it performed.

Sadly, although it was released 2 years ago, the answer to that is poorly, and this kickstarted remake of Dungeon Defenders looks to be nothing more than a poorly-veiled final cash grab with the developer now focusing its efforts on Dungeon Defenders: Going Rogue – a game in Early Access on Steam that was originally going to be Awakened DLC, before abandoning the ship and creating a new game entirely – which is currently at half the price.

I should also add that you can play the game’s predecessor – Dungeon Defenders 2 – as a free-to-play multiplayer game on all platforms. But before you decide that your $30 is better left in your wallet – which it is – let’s get into what Awakened offers, which is mindless action RPG loot gameplay, where you need to defeat waves of enemies and prevent them from destroying your ‘towers’, or in this case – cores. Rinse and repeat.

The opening cutscene isn’t skippable for the first 37 seconds……..because I don’t value my time I guess?

There are plenty of characters and abilities, which allow for a large combination of defenses and weapons to be laid out on the maps, but the game’s formula and mechanisms are so basic and predictable that success is almost academic. This is due to the very narrow path level design and pre-determined enemy behavior – the game even showing their pathways in build mode – that has them spawn from their entrance and travel directly to your cores and mindlessly to their death. This means that the battle is more about you knowing the abilities available to you and where to place your defenses – which the map makes incredibly obvious – rather than any challenge the enemies provide.

Up to 4-player multiplayer papers over those cracks – to an extent – as you have to work with others and overcome their weaknesses to succeed, fostering communication and loot sharing between teammates. This isn’t to say that there’s nothing enjoyable about the single-player mode, but if anything, it can be thought of as an extended multiplayer tutorial that gets old very quickly.

Nearly 5 identical modes for single and multiplayer make up the entire thing as well, which ultimately makes DDA feel like a cheap update to the original, as it only really improves the visuals, and ignores the improvements that DD2 offered in better maps and action.

Hmmm, I wonder where I should place my weapons for enemies that religiously stick to paths??

If this was the first game in the series you could forgive some of the issues, but when DD2 is completely free (DDA having both a purchase fee and ps plus requirement), every single advantage DD2 has over DDA has Gandalf’s “You shall not pass” echoing in my ears – there is simply no justification for you to go down that road.

One of my bugbears with RPGs is when attacks are met with almost zero visible reaction from enemies, with a number appearing above an enemy’s head, and a dull sound to combine for miserable feedback from the game. Unfortunately, when aligned with floaty controls and attacks with zero weight, Awakened‘s characters feel like animated plastic bags that swing toothpicks at padded pillows. Ridiculous comparison aside, it’s strangely relaxing, and the easy difficulty may act as a nice wind down from a hard day, but I don’t think that’s what the game is going for exactly.

With the ability to heal and mostly weak enemies, there’s not a lot of point leveling up any other stats other than attack and ability.

Adding yet more wood to the bonfire of my disappointment is the fact that DD2 does everything DDA doesn’t. Larger and more expansive maps have huge and chaotic enemy crowds that make things challenging and unpredictable, but the best thing about it is that the basic attacks have better feedback, and I feel like my character is actually attacking something, and the enemy in turn reacting like they are receiving damage. The pillows and toothpicks are gone and the action feels meaningful – it’s comparatively glorious. You can also change your character in the predecessor mid-fight in DD2 which is a feature absent in Awakened – yet another puzzling omission to add to the list.

After laying down a base plant, my character’s best abilities – a laser flower and suicidal homing explosive mushrooms – wrecks havok before needing to be replenished or fixed after receiving damage or reducing in number.

Unless you are familiar with the series and wish to play a remake of the original, I would recommend playing DD2 for free, and then waiting to see which game the developer pulls the plug on (Awakened or Going Rogue) before committing to a purchase that requires multiplayer to enhance Awakened’s dull gameplay.

Review: Pinball Freedom

Cody May

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Jun 16, 2022

0

Lovers of Pinball Unite! Many gamers who grew up in the 80’s and 90’s got their start in arcades, begging their parents for quarters, with the hope of achieving the highest score in town. Developer CGA Studio seem to be nostalgic for those days, as they made Pinball Freedom, a pinball game which puts you back in the arcade, along with multiple pinball machines to play and enjoy.

So, for those gamers who long to return to the era before things such as cell phones or the internet, does Pinball Freedom present a fun time machine back, or is it just a mundane mess?

Gameplay

The gameplay in Pinball Freedom is exactly what you would expect from a pinball game, except it’s not as fun as most other pinball games that are out there. The twist here, is that you are in the arcade, first-person, free to walk around and play any of the games that you’d like. While I really like this addition, as it will give many gamers a rush of nostalgia from times long past, I only wish the games themselves had the same excitement and fun.

There are five pinball machines to choose from, each having their own unique themes, such as a skate park, BMX park, and sci-fi theme. Visual design on them is great, as they each look different from one another. The problem is, they all play identically. After a brief amount of enjoyment, I found myself rather tired of how repetitive and samey they all felt.

A cool addition to the arcade is an ice hockey game, but the AI you play against is rather bad so you won’t have a problem winning games. I thought it was a cool addition nonetheless.

Visuals and Sound

Visual design is nice. The game isn’t hard to look at, and as I said earlier, the machines themselves have cool, distinct looks. Sounds are fine, and so is each song on each of the machines.

Pinball Freedom is exactly what you would expect from a pinball game, except it’s not as fun as most other pinball games that are out there.

Closing Remarks

This game is mixed for me. I think there is some fun to be had, but only if you’re a pinball fanatic, or want to relive old memories. Unfortunately, the game doesn’t have enough to keep things interesting beyond an hour, or two of gameplay, so therefore it’s hard for me to recommend it. There are things to appreciate in this game, but ultimately Pinball Freedom falls flat.

Emerging gaming trends that have been reshaping the industry in recent years

Gaming

Andrew Edney

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Jun 15, 2022

0

Emerging gaming trends that have been reshaping the industry in recent years

Since its foundation in the middle of the 2000s, the online gaming market has established new standards for the gaming industry as a whole and is without a doubt one of the most significant and rapidly expanding entertainment sectors in existence today.

Market leaders have been pushing the envelope for novel gaming experiences as technology advances at an astonishing rate, leading to significant changes in the way we play online.

As the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our daily lives, gaming became an appealing option for people complying with social distancing and quarantines, with the online gaming sector reporting some of the highest growth rates in the last decade.

This unusual moment saw the development of iGaming platforms, the evolution of blockchain gaming, and the launch of unique gaming platforms, presenting players all over the world with a plethora of new alternatives.

Even as the pandemic winds down, interest in gaming remains high, with many surveys indicating that emerging services such as cloud-based gaming and virtual reality will have a significant impact on industry sales in the coming years.

Developers, publishers, and software providers are constantly working to revolutionize the industry by creating new gaming experiences and enabling users to enjoy various forms of online entertainment. This is due to the introduction of new technologies and gaming platforms as well as the emergence of distinctive online trends.

A journey into the metaverse

Blockchains, cryptocurrencies, and NFTs are among the most prominent internet trends at the moment.

If you’re still unsure about what these terms mean, non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, are unique digital assets within a blockchain, which in turn are public ledgers for cryptocurrencies – digital currencies recorded in a computer database using strong cryptography – like Bitcoin and Ether.

Games that combine one or more of these elements are known as blockchain games or crypto games. Early in the 2010s, the idea of blockchain gaming was originally proposed, and the first games were released in 2015. Initially, the majority of these games were designed around NFT collectibles like virtual pets, collectible trading cards, and even virtual real estate.

Numerous new games with more complex gameplay and mechanics were developed as blockchain technology improved. Currently, some of the most popular blockchain games include Alien Worlds, in which players become space explorers, seeking to discover NFTs and stake Trilium, the in-game currency, and MiningNetwork, a game that combines play-to-earn and free-to-play features in a revolutionary economic model that has never been used in the metaverse.

A little action on the World Wide Web

https://youtube.com/watch?v=rxMgJnowuxU

Gambling has always been one of the world’s beloved pastimes, whether it’s traditional casino games like roulette, lotteries, or sports betting.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and worldwide social distancing measures enforced in the previous two years, the online gambling business, commonly known as iGaming, has surged in popularity as land-based gambling venues were forced to halt operations.

There is a vast range of iGaming platforms accessible today, and players can wager on big sporting events like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, play classics like roulette, blackjack, and craps, and even play game shows with live hosts.

Players may choose from a large selection of licensed and regulated operators, all of whom provide a comprehensive selection of betting alternatives, a variety of payment and banking methods, as well as exclusive bonuses, promotions, and loyalty programs.

Socializing while gaming

Social gaming refers to video games that enable users to socialize while playing, whether through multiplayer elements, social networking, activity feeds, guild dynamics, or even by incorporating social elements within the gameplay.

Although social gaming is still a new idea, it became increasingly popular during the pandemic as players looked for new ways to interact with friends and family. This attracted gamers from all over the world and was responsible for millions of hours of live streaming on sites like Twitch and YouTube.

Among Us, a 2018 social deduction game by Innersloth, and Fortnite, the Epic Games battle royale juggernaut, are two of the most successful games in this new genre, with a 18 percent rise in total hours played in 2021.

However, Roblox, a sandbox platform with integrated social elements where players can build games and join one another’s experiences and activities, has to be the greatest illustration of a social game. Even though it was launched a few years ago, Roblox is still one of the most widely played games online. During the epidemic, the total number of hours spent in the game grew by more than 100 percent.

One of the brightest examples of improving the gaming industry is crypto casino UK.

News: SteelSeries Father’s Day guide

Gaming
News

Daniel Waite

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Jun 15, 2022

0

Father’s Day comes but once a year. Sunday 19^th of June, if you don’t know. Now every year I tell my wife and kids not to spoil me, but I am showered with gifts. However, oddly, none of them is gaming related. Perhaps, my wife is telling me something, but, let’s move on from that. So, as I write this article, I am already salivating at the prospect of you receiving one of these gifts. I ask you to sit back, relax and prepare to experience the wonderment of the SteelSeries Father’s Day guide.

With many fantastic products in the SteelSeries range, I found it difficult to pick. However, I believe I’ve put together a comprehensive list of interesting gaming accessories. This eclectic group works for console and PC gamers and will make the recipients smile. Therefore, without further ado, let’s tackle this list.

The SteelSeries Father’s Day guide.

1. The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset £329.99.

The Arctis brand has been popular for years, and it comes as no surprise. Built with quality and value in mind, these will blow you away. This latest headset is a premium device that comes at a premium cost. But don’t let that put you off! No, instead, consider this a wise investment. Because of its robust build quality and monstrous list of features, they are a game-changer.

Having kids is loud and distracting. Therefore, active noise cancellation is a must. No more will you miss vital audio as you block out the outside world. Alongside this, the Nova Pro acoustic system generates true 360° Spatial audio. There are also two interchangeable batteries to keep your gaming uninterrupted. Moreover, the simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity allow you to mix gaming and mobile audio seamlessly.

There are many more features, but I could go on forever. In short, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset is a phenomenal device! If your significant other gets this on the 19^th, they will be happy.

2. The Stratus + controller £64.99.

Once little people enter your life (kids, not a hobbit, that is), your time is precious. Consequently, gaming can take a backseat. However, this needn’t be the case thanks to a plethora of mobile options. Thanks to its popularity, many new controllers have been created. Accordingly, one of these devices that shouldn’t be ignored is the Stratus + controller.

This uniquely designed controller has a small clip to attach to a mobile phone. This excellent addition to the pad makes it truly versatile. What’s more, it can be connected to a Chromebook device with its energy-efficient Bluetooth LE connection. On top of this, you can connect it to a Windows PC with a USB-C to A cable. Thankfully, battery power is also not a concern. With a fast charge facility, you can get 90+ hours before you must plug it in again. Finally, the build quality is fantastic thanks to the ALPS thumbsticks and Hall Effect Triggers. The thumbsticks have clickable L3/R3 buttons to increase input options. Furthermore, the magnetic sensors create a smooth, responsive and consistent performance.

With many controller options on the market, it can feel overwhelming. However, worry not, as this excellent option is great for gaming on the go.

3. The Apex 3 TKL keyboard £49.99.

Your gaming experience is only as good as the peripherals you use. I don’t believe in the phrase “a bad workman blames his tools.” (Just remember kids, it’s always the tools, never the workman.) Therefore, picking a responsive, stylish, and ergonomic keyboard is essential. Moreover, if it has RGB included, then what’s not to love? This is where the Apex 3 TKL keyboard shines. It ticks all these boxes and more, and won’t break the bank.

Unlike its mechanical counterparts, this whisper-quiet keyboard is silent. This is phenomenal for late-night gaming when the slightest of sounds will awaken your household. Moreover, click, click, click, can become annoying. Now, I love that classic sound, but I’m sure my wife doesn’t. Alongside this, it has an IP32 waterproof rating to protect against spillages. Now, most gamers snack and drink while playing, so accidents will happen. However, mitigate the damage with this unique keyboard function. If a compact design and vivid lighting are key, then listen closely. The TKL build is small and comfortable. Accordingly, it’s great for tighter desks and minuscule spaces. The RGB, on the other hand, makes this thing pop! With 8 customisable zones that react to games and discord, it looks stunning.

If your significant other wants a hard-wearing and comfortable keyboard, look no further. If they open this accessory on the 19^th, happiness is guaranteed.

4. Aerox 5 Wireless Mouse £134.99.

If your other half is an FPS freak, then accuracy and speed are a must. Consequently, a top-end mouse is key. Come forward the Aerox 5 Wireless Mouse. This unbelievably lightweight accessory is colourful, mappable, and lightning-quick. What’s more, it has an exceptional battery life, is dust, water, and dirt resistant, and feels wonderful to use. Its programmable buttons are great for MMO games, or to get ahead on FPSs. Like the Apex 3 TKL, this one change will improve your gaming experience.

At only 74g, this is a market-leading mouse. Its meagre weight, however, is no reflection of its build quality. The translucent honeycomb shell covers a stunning RGB display that is truly breathtaking. Furthermore, the travel of the buttons and the positioning of the mappable options are fantastic. Everything sits comfortably and naturally, and this allows for pain-free sessions. The aqua barrier design keeps this accessory running smoothly. With an IP54 rating, it repels water, dirt, dust, and more. Moreover, the 180-hour battery life is insane, and thanks to the Quantum wireless tech, it’s latency-free. However, the pièce de résistance is the 80m click durability and hyper-responsive touch. The TrueMove Air sensors ensure you are one step ahead.

No one wants to lag behind their foes or friends. Thankfully, the Aerox 5 Wireless mouse ensures you’ll keep up. With mind-blowing speeds, customisable buttons, and a lightweight design, this is a must-have gaming peripheral.

The last item on the SteelSeries Father’s Day guide!

5. The Scout Backpack £54.99.

It must be a sign of my age, but I love a quality backpack. I desire comfort, style, and above all else, protection for my contents. Fortunately, the Scout Backpack ticks every box. Its understated design and fantastic dimensions make it a perfect day bag. On top of this, it can easily fit in a 15.6″ laptop in its padded compartment. Furthermore, the water-resistant canvas keeps your valuables protected.

If you are a dad that commutes or works away, this is the perfect gift. It has plenty of room for gaming goods, as well as clothing and toiletries. Not only this, it’s stylish, robust, and comfortable to wear.

Summary for the SteelSeries Father’s Day guide.

That’s the end of my SteelSeries Father’s Day guide! This was a short insight into my choices from the current range. However, there are plenty of great alternatives here! Whatever you choose to gift, I hope your significant other or dad/granddad loves their present. Stay safe, love each other, and keep gaming.

Product links are below.

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

News: Nacon and EPOS Sennheiser Father’s Day guide

Gaming
News

Daniel Waite

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Jun 15, 2022

0

With Father’s Day just around the corner, you may be wanting to get something extra special. Consequently, any gaming dads would love an upgrade to their existing setup. Therefore, I’ve put together the Nacon and EPOS Sennheiser Father’s Day guide to help you out. Now, these are a select bunch of products that I love. I hope that your significant other will adore them too.

Now, I’m aware there are masses of brands and products to select from. Consequently, it is a bit of a minefield and mistakes are easily made. However, I’m hoping my hands-on experience with these items will help to put your mind at ease. So, let’s wait no longer and see what I have up my sleeve.

The Nacon and EPOS Sennheiser Father’s Day guide.

1. The Nacon MG-X Pro €89.90.

I have recently covered the Nacon MG-X, so I know this upgraded version will be phenomenal. Its compact and sturdy design is great for gamers on the go and it is perfect for Game Pass players. Furthermore, it accommodates an array of mobile phones and this makes it versatile as well as useful.

Its black and sleek design is understated but stylish. With excellent button placement, responsive controls, and a fast Bluetooth connection, it is user-friendly. What’s more, it has a fantastic 20-hour battery life, holds your phone securely, and is small enough to fit in any bag or backpack.

This is the perfect gift if you like to be out and about. Unlike some of its peers, it isn’t bulky and it won’t run out of juice. If your partner or dad loves to fill their spare time with gaming, then look no further.

2. The Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller €99.99.

Moving away from mobile gaming to a more traditional approach. The Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller is a stunning wired pad for use with Xbox or PC. It has a sturdy design, additional mappable buttons, and adjustable weights, and includes Dolby Atmos for headphones. In short, it packs in a lot of features for a very reasonable price.

The first thing to note is the excellent button layout. The larger than normal buttons follow the Xbox controller design and this was fantastic. After all, a familiar approach makes gaming much easier. Thanks to its plug-and-play feature, you needn’t worry about battery life. Accordingly, you can game as much as you wish without concern. What’s more, there are no latency issues, and the pad is super responsive. If this isn’t enough, there are mappable buttons conveniently placed at the lower rear of the shell. These were easy to locate and comfortable to use. The custom options don’t stop there as you can adjust the weight. Simply lift off the cover on each handle, and add the desired weight to each side.

Unlike some of its peers, the Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller is straightforward to use. Thanks to a well-designed app and easily accessible compartments, you’ll have the perfect setup in no time. There is also a vivid hint of RGB on the right analogue stick. This was a small thing, but it really stands out against the plain black shell.

3. EPOS Sennheiser GSP 670 Wireless £179.99.

Now, getting the perfect audio is not an easy task! Some headphones have poor sound, awful microphones, or are just uncomfortable. Then you get issues with connectivity, the headbands breaking, or the wires snapping. In short, it’s tough to get it perfect. However, I’m going to recommend the EPOS Sennheiser GSP 670 Wireless headphones. Why? You might ask. Well, first, they are incredible because of the 7.1 virtual surround sound and the high-fidelity sound. Second, if you live in the UK, they are a whooping £100 off the RRP until 30/06/2022 from Currys. With a saving like that, you can forget some of the lesser headphones and really impress with this monster audio accessory.

These over-ear headphones are comfortable to wear and don’t overheat during long sessions. Furthermore, the sound quality is amazing, and the microphone is crystal clear. To help further, they are designed with separate controls for chat and game audio. This ensures you can get the perfect balance with little effort. Alongside this, it is easy to mute the mic when you want some privacy. On top of this, the simultaneous Bluetooth allows you to connect both a phone and gaming device. This is fantastic, as you never miss a call or become distracted whilst playing. Finally, an intelligent battery management system turns off the headphones when they are not in use. However, this is nice to have as the 20+ hour battery life is more than sufficient for the average gamer.

If you are fed up with hearing the TV blaring all night, then save your ears and impress your partner. These incredible headphones won’t disappoint you, and their current sale price is absolutely incredible.

The final item on the Nacon and EPOS Sennheiser Father’s Day guide!

4. EPOS GTW 270 Hybrid gaming earbuds £129.99.

Wireless earbuds have improved vastly over the years. From being a bit of a fashion faux par to being the next must-have accessory. Consequently, you see them everywhere you look, especially if you commute or travel. If your partner is craving some high-quality audio for gaming or listening to music, then I have a solution. The EPOS GTW 270 Hybrid gaming earbuds are fantastic. These lightweight but sturdy headphones sit comfortably in your ears. What’s more, they are great for running, walking, and keeping yourself entertained.

If you simply love music, you will adore these! The closed acoustic sound drowns out unnecessary noises. No longer will you hear inane chatter or babies screaming, instead you’ll hear every note of every song. This can be said for those that love to game as well. Accordingly, you’ll easily become immersed in each world as outside distractions fade away. On top of this, the exceptional aural clarity provides you with expansive audio and increased realism.

With two modes of connectivity, these earbuds are truly versatile. The USB-C dongle with aptX low latency is perfect for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, or Android gamers. Whereas the 5.1 Bluetooth offers a rapid and seamless connection to any other compatible device. Finally, the handy portable charging case extends your five-hour listening time to a massive 20 hours.

These earbuds deliver crystal clear sound and realistic audio. They are also versatile, stylish, comfortable, and well-built. Furthermore, the sleek and compact design is less in your face and they feel secure in your ears.

The USB-C dongle with atpX low latency connection.

Summary for the Nacon EPOS Sennheiser Father’s Day guide.

We’ve come to the end of my Nacon and EPOS Sennheiser Father’s Day guide. I could have selected many more fantastic products, but these took my fancy. With excellent customer service and wonderful after-sales care, you can’t go wrong by purchasing from either company. No matter what gift you decide to purchase, enjoy your special day with your loved ones. Stay safe, love each other, and keep on gaming.

Links for each product are below.

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

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