Here we take a closer look at the Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Atari Legends.
Step back into the golden age of gaming with the Atari Iconic Collection, a tribute to one of the most influential names in video game history. Atari’s legacy has not only shaped the gaming landscape but also sparked creativity across pop culture. Now, with this collection, you can bring a touch of gaming nostalgia into your everyday life, featuring stunning pieces that blend functionality with retro charm.
Retro Revolution: Dive into the past with the Atari Legends 3D Wall Art, bringing the iconic cartridge design into your modern space. Colourful Nostalgia: Each piece captures the vibrant essence of the classic Atari games, adding a splash of nostalgia and good gaming memories to any room. Dims: 40 L x 2.2 W x 28.7 H (CM). Interactive Artwork: Not just a visual treat, this collection invites viewers to engage with a piece of gaming history on their walls. Dynamic Décor: Whether it’s for a gaming den, living room, or office, this work of art offers a versatile touch that complements any decorating style. Legacy Collection: A celebration of Atari’s pioneering contributions to the gaming world, making it a must-have for enthusiasts and collectors. Time Capsule: Each 3D wall art piece serves as a portal back to the golden age of gaming, evoking memories, and admiration. Unique Gifting Idea: Ideal for the gamer who appreciates the roots of video gaming, or anyone looking to add a distinctive piece to their collection.
The collection includes more than just wall art; it also features an Atari Joystick Decanter Set, a Pint Glass, and dynamic 3D wall art inspired by iconic Atari games like Pong and Asteroids. The Joystick Decanter Set is crafted to elevate your drinks experience, shaped like the original CX-10 controller and complete with two action button glasses, a must-have for any collector. The Atari Beer Glass is perfect for enjoying your favourite beverages, blending the classic Atari logo with practical design.
Whether you’re a gamer, a fan of ’80s nostalgia, or simply someone who appreciates unique collectibles, the Atari Iconic Collection is designed to celebrate your love for gaming history. Ideal for home décor, entertaining, or as the perfect gift, these pieces evoke memories of the golden era of video games while fitting seamlessly into any modern lifestyle.
Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Atari Legends is available now priced around £394.99.
Here we take a closer look at the Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Pong Collection.
Step back into the golden age of gaming with the Atari Iconic Collection, a tribute to one of the most influential names in video game history. Atari’s legacy has not only shaped the gaming landscape but also sparked creativity across pop culture. Now, with this collection, you can bring a touch of gaming nostalgia into your everyday life, featuring stunning pieces that blend functionality with retro charm.
Vintage Gaming Charm: The Atari Pong 3D Wall Art is a nostalgic piece that brings the iconic game to life in your space. Unique Collectable: This decorative item is a must-have for any Atari fan or vintage game enthusiast, adding a retro touch to any room. Dims: 33.8 L x 2.2 W x 25 H (CM). Artistic Flair: It’s not just a decoration but a piece of art that sparks conversation and reminiscence of the golden gaming era. Versatile Décor: Whether it’s in a game room, living room, or office, it blends seamlessly with various interior styles. Nostalgic Journey: Experience a trip back in time and relive the joy of playing one of the most iconic games of the past, Pong! Ideal Gift: Perfect for gamers, art lovers, or anyone with a penchant for retro, it’s a unique and thoughtful present.
The collection includes more than just wall art; it also features an Atari Joystick Decanter Set, a Pint Glass, and dynamic 3D wall art inspired by iconic Atari games like Pong and Asteroids. The Joystick Decanter Set is crafted to elevate your drinks experience, shaped like the original CX-10 controller and complete with two action button glasses, a must-have for any collector. The Atari Beer Glass is perfect for enjoying your favourite beverages, blending the classic Atari logo with practical design.
Whether you’re a gamer, a fan of ’80s nostalgia, or simply someone who appreciates unique collectibles, the Atari Iconic Collection is designed to celebrate your love for gaming history. Ideal for home décor, entertaining, or as the perfect gift, these pieces evoke memories of the golden era of video games while fitting seamlessly into any modern lifestyle.
Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Pong Collection is available now priced around £34.99.
Here we take a closer look at the Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Asteroids Collection.
Step back into the golden age of gaming with the Atari Iconic Collection, a tribute to one of the most influential names in video game history. Atari’s legacy has not only shaped the gaming landscape but also sparked creativity across pop culture. Now, with this collection, you can bring a touch of gaming nostalgia into your everyday life, featuring stunning pieces that blend functionality with retro charm.
Nostalgic Elegance: The Atari Asteroids 3D Wall Art is a unique collectable that brings the iconic game to life in your space. Vintage Gaming Charm: Infuse your space with a dash of retro gaming allure, reminiscent of the golden age of gaming. Dims: 25 L x 2.2 W x 33.8 H (CM). Art and Gaming Fusion: This piece is not just a decoration but a work of art, sparking conversations and memories of vintage gaming. Versatile Décor Piece: Ideal for a game room, living room, or office, it complements various interior styles with its nostalgic charm. Collector’s Item: A must-have addition to any gaming memorabilia collection. Journey to the Past: Relive the joy and excitement of playing one of the most iconic games from the golden era of gaming. Perfect Gift: A thoughtful present for gamers, art lovers, or anyone with a love for retro and vintage items.
The collection includes more than just wall art; it also features an Atari Joystick Decanter Set, a Pint Glass, and dynamic 3D wall art inspired by iconic Atari games like Pong and Asteroids. The Joystick Decanter Set is crafted to elevate your drinks experience, shaped like the original CX-10 controller and complete with two action button glasses, a must-have for any collector. The Atari Beer Glass is perfect for enjoying your favourite beverages, blending the classic Atari logo with practical design.
Whether you’re a gamer, a fan of ’80s nostalgia, or simply someone who appreciates unique collectibles, the Atari Iconic Collection is designed to celebrate your love for gaming history. Ideal for home décor, entertaining, or as the perfect gift, these pieces evoke memories of the golden era of video games while fitting seamlessly into any modern lifestyle.
Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Asteroids Collection is available now priced around £34.99.
Care Bears: To The Rescue is a great family-friendly title. If you adore the colourful and heartfelt franchise, this will be right up your street. However, you’ll want to give this a wide berth if you have no children and despise the fluffy bears. As I have 3 young girls, I sit in camp number 1. Accordingly, there were squeals of delight as my children controlled their favourite characters.
This action platform game was developed by Polygoat and published by Forever Entertainment. Moreover, it is a single-player or up to 4 player experience. It utilises basic stage design and the mechanics are child-friendly. Consequently, adults will fly through every level. Yet, we must remember that this is aimed at a young audience and children from 6 to 10 will adore every moment.
Care Bears: To The Rescue has a wholesome story.
80s cartoons were renowned for their wholesome plots. The hints at moral code and the obvious good vs evil were fantastic. However, the shallow writing and in-your-face approach will not win any awards for subtlety. This didn’t bother my girls too much as the easy-to-follow plot got a thumbs up from them.
The Care Bears notice something wrong with the Silver Lining. This once mellow place is emitting bad energy. Unfortunately, Bluster has created a bad seed and it is spreading negativity across the world. Luckily, though, the heroes step up in time to save the day.
Simple mechanics.
This won’t wow you with complexity. Instead, the simple mechanics allow each player to navigate the world with ease. Jumping, running, and crossing chasms are par for the course. As the game evolves, you will face new challenges, but none of them are too testing. Additionally, there are enemies to overcome, but they can be thwarted with your Belly Badge Power.
Each of the Care Bears has their own special skill. This sounds interesting, but it rarely makes a difference. This was a shame but I liked the straightforward approach. Furthermore, though I enjoy helping my kids to game, it is much more relaxing when they don’t ask for my help every 2 seconds.
The gameplay throws in the odd curveball with some unique stages. Moreover, there is a mini-game in each of the core worlds. These weren’t overly testing, but they broke up the repetitive gameplay and helped to keep things fresh.
Care Bears: To The Rescue is vibrant but dated.
The side-scrolling movement and simple animation have a dated feel. Moreover, the basic assets and rudimentary level design won’t compete with bigger-budget games. However, Care Bears: To The Rescue is still pleasant to look at. The animation is smooth and I like the lack of glitches and bugs. Additionally, the vibrant colour palette matched the vivid nature of the franchise.
The audio was as loud and heartwarming as expected. The music has an upbeat tone and the sound effects are simple but effective. Unfortunately, the dialogue is accompanied by a tedious tapping sound and this drove me bonkers.
Excellent controls.
Moving left and right while exploring the odd secret area won’t test you or your children. However, the tight and easy-to-understand controls were very welcome. Alongside this, new elements were well explained and some minor trial and error removed any sense of doubt or failure.
I’m rarely invested in a child-friendly title, but this was different. Care Bears: To The Rescue has a fun collectable sticker system that kept me interested. Every stage has 3 stickers to collect and some of the hiding places were fantastic. Moreover, there are stars to find but I couldn’t work out their purpose. Subsequently, despite the star issue, this has some replay value and longevity.
Care Bears: To The Rescue is great for its intended audience.
Older gamers will scowl at this title. The idea of basic 90s-inspired gameplay will be off-putting. However, this is for children and my review reflects this approach. The gameplay mechanics are refined but ideal for younger players. Moreover, the stage design has enough variety to keep you interested. Accordingly, it is great for its intended audience and I recommend buying it here! Can you prevent the darkness from taking hold? Choose your Care Bear, explore the world, and save the day.
I really wanted to love Chornobyl Liquidators. The premise had me hooked—a raw, unfiltered look at one of the worst nuclear disasters in history, putting you in the shoes of the people who had to clean up the mess and deal with the horrifying consequences. And at first, I was into it. The opening missions, where you play as a first responder, are intense, gripping, and honestly, best parts of the entire game. These early sections had me thinking, Okay, sure, there are some bugs, and the controls feel a little off, but this is worth pushing through.
But then the game did something weird. It tricked me.
And the rest of the game
After those initial first responder missions—the ones that really made me feel like I was in the disaster, battling flames, and experiencing the chaos first-hand as some firefighters don’t make it through. Then game just changes. It slows down, loses momentum, and turns into something completely different: a smudgy, frustrating, and much less satisfying version of Viscera Clean-up Detail. Instead of fighting through disasters, making split-second decisions, and surviving the immediate aftermath of the explosion, you spend the rest of the game cleaning up radioactive sludge, scrubbing walls, and following repetitive orders that feel more like busywork than a compelling experience.
I don’t mind slower, methodical gameplay if it’s engaging, but here, it just isn’t. The mechanics feel unfinished, the objectives are boring, and the sense of urgency from the opening missions disappears almost entirely. Worse yet, the bugs and performance issues that were already present in the first part of the game become even harder to ignore. some frame drops and stuttering, made the already sluggish gameplay feel even worse. The controls, which were already stiff, become a real problem when you’re trying to complete tedious tasks of cleaning blue fart clouds.
I tried harder to like the game than the developers did
It’s such a shame because the game had something. The atmosphere is fantastic, the historical detail is great, and those first few missions had me completely immersed. But once the game shifts gears, it feels like it loses all confidence in itself. It goes from being a gripping, high-stakes disaster simulation to a slow, buggy chore simulator. I wanted to push through, I really did, but by the end, I just felt drained. If the developers had stuck with the intensity of the opening and refined the gameplay instead of turning it into a tedious clean-up job, Chornobyl Liquidators could have been something special. Instead, it feels like a game that tricked me into thinking it was great, only to slowly reveal how hollow it really is
After going through the game in about 5 hours I can say that the game can be enjoyed, but I cannot recommend it without a strong sale. The is currently sitting at €16 on steam which is definitely too high for a game where the developers seem like they lost interest half way through.
Blow It Up described itself as a ‘physics destruction game’, and that put a grin on my face. The destruction part for an obvious reason. Everyone needs a little bit of destruction in their lives every now and then. But the ‘physics’ part did its fair share too. When I see a physics based game, I imagine knocking out the lowest block of a tower and watching everything collapse into tiny bits. It’s one of those pleasures in life that you’re really not sure you should be enjoying.
So the fact that Blow It Up features bombs as the central mechanic was the cherry on top. Before we dig into that though, there is an elephant in the room that we need to address. Blow It Up is very similar, in gameplay, to Angry Birds. I suspect that’s an unavoidable comparison. It’s no bad thing though. Angry Birds provided a winning formula. Despite a small amount of physics wonkiness, Blow It Up is undeniably fun.
Dropping Bombs
The basic format is nice and simple. You stroll your anthropomorphic bomb character over to a level on the hub, and you’re greeted with a stack of wood, concrete and enemy bombs. On the left is your, presumably, more heroic bomb. You drag with the mouse to indicate its trajectory and let it fly. If you’ve set your trajectory correctly, the concrete and wooden towers will collapse into screaming bits. It’s good fun. Launching a bomb on the perfect trajectory is wonderfully rewarded by the physics engine showing all the individual sections of the towers collapse.
It’s a simple pleasure, but to Blow It Up‘s credit, it works hard to keep things fresh. There’s a decent selection of bombs, for instance, which all have different skills. Your basic one will accelerate when clicked, but by the end you’re carpet bombing areas with the airship or splitting into cluster bombs. My personal favourite was the gun bomb, which would freeze and just start shooting its way through the architecture. What’s more, the levels are sensibly designed. Certain structures can’t be destroyed, for instance, requiring crafty use of all the bombs. There wasn’t a single type that was left unused.
Wibbly-Wobbly
Let’s talk a bit more about Blow It Up’s physics. It’s voxel based. What this means is that everything is built from three-dimensional pixel-equivalents called voxels, each of which are affected by the physics engine. So when a bomb collides with a wall, it’ll blast apart into pieces. This makes for good collapses, but it is a little wonky at times. Towers will often be left standing on just one skinny leg, for instance. The 3D nature backfires a bit too. There were a couple of times when enemy bombs would be knocked into the foreground, so that none of my bombs could touch them. A bit frustrating.
Still, when it works, it works very well. I had a couple of levels where I launched a single, well-placed bomb and sat back as everything began to slowly fall apart in the perfect domino effect. Beautiful. That said, the decision to use voxels does hurt the visuals a bit. The blocky style looks a bit ugly, in my opinion, and it’s lacking some personality. The enemy bombs, and the levels in general, look a touch bland. It’s not a deal-breaker but, without wishing to directly drag up the comparison again, I don’t think anyone is going to make the Blow It UpMovie.
Blow It Up – Good Messy Fun
It’s not really what we’re here for though, is it? We’re here for the gameplay, and that is undeniably fun. Blow It Up isn’t a long game, clocking in at about two and a half hours for the campaign, but there are some elements that’ll keep people coming back. Levels function on a bronze-silver-gold scoring system, for example. Most importantly, however, it lets you create levels and upload them to the Steam workshop. There’s not too many there yet, but I played a couple of interesting ones. One emulated the Death Star’s exhaust port. I want to come back to it once a few creative types have pushed it to the limit.
Once again, I come back to where I started: it’s fun to throw explosives at buildings and watch them all fall down. The voxel system makes the collapses a bit more realistic, even if it can get a bit wonky at times. That’s a risk of every physics engine, though. Blow It Up may not stick around for long, but if you’re in the mood to watch something collapse into tiny bits, then it’ll more than scratch that itch.
The WX4+ Wireless Controller from Gioteck is ideal for younger gamers. I previously covered many PowerA Nintendo Switch controllers and loved them all. This gamepad is a little understated by comparison, but the RGB lighting gives a wow factor. It has customisable rear triggers and a pleasant dark or light camo finish.
Alongside this, the inputs are responsive and accurate and it feels nice to hold. The lightweight design may not appease everyone, but I liked it for lengthy gaming sessions. Additionally, the wireless approach isn’t normally so affordable. Consequently, if you want an inexpensive device that is great to look at, keep on reading.
What’s in the box of the WX4+ Wireless Controller?
The packaging is simple but effective furthermore, the contents are well protected.
The WX4+ Wireless Controller is easy to use. The 16-button design feels like an official controller. Subsequently, there is no awkward breaking-in period.
Charge the controller or play wired with the USB-C cable.
Learn the basics with the user guide.
Technical aspects.
Design and usability are 2 key factors when selecting a new gamepad. Thankfully, the WX4+ Wireless Controller scores highly in both categories. This attractive device has an 8-hour battery life with a 2.5-hour charging time. This may seem low, but its affordable price point gives it a little leeway. Moreover, you can charge it while using it if you plan on an epic gaming session.
On top of this, it has motion and vibration support and it is compatible with a PC and the Switch and OLED Switch consoles. This versatility was great and I like the reassurance of switching it between platforms.
Customisable rear buttons and quick-fire triggers are essential for FPS lovers. Thankfully, this controller offers this as standard. The rear buttons can be switched on the fly and this is important if you flit between games.
Another key element was connectivity. I hate it when wireless devices are a pain to use. Thankfully, the WX4+ Wireless Controller was a cinch to use. I could connect it to my Switch with no effort. Additionally, the handy LED lighting highlighted which player was using the device.
Build quality.
Talking about lighting, this gamepad has customisable RGB. Though this isn’t essential, I like the eye for detail. Moreover, vibrant accessories are a gaming staple. A simple button allows you to pick the RGB design. This straightforward approach was appreciated as my kids love to experiment.
The lightweight but ergonomic design was comfortable. Though it feels slightly different to the official controller, I could use it with no bedding-in period. On top of this, the rear buttons were placed in a sensible position. I could use either input without adjusting my grip. Alternatively, I could ignore them altogether.
Finally, the travel distance for each button was pleasant. Moreover, there wasn’t an uncomfortable plastic feel that cheapens lesser gamepads. Instead, this affordable controller is great to use despite its reasonable price tag.
Is the WX4+ Wireless Controller worth it?
There are some fantastic third-party controllers for the Nintendo Switch. I’ve tried many of them and they’ve impressed me. Thankfully, the WX4+ Wireless Controller was no different. Though it isn’t as attractive as the PowerA gamepads, I like the vibrant RGB and the choice of camo colours. Moreover, the accurate inputs were great. Its major shortcoming is the low battery life and this may put people off. Despite this problem, I like it and I recommend buying it here!
In an industry brimming with automation and factory-building games like Factorio, Satisfactory, and Dyson Sphere Program, it takes something special to stand out. Microtopia, released in on February 18, 2025, manages to carve out its niche by combining colony simulation with automation mechanics, all centred around robotic ants. With a fresh approach to the genre, a unique take on worker management, and a minimalist yet satisfying aesthetic, Microtopia brings something new to the table while maintaining the depth and challenge fans of factory builders crave.
A New Kind of Factory Builder
At its core, Microtopia is about managing an ant colony made up of robotic workers. Unlike traditional factory-building games that rely on conveyor belts and mechanical automation, here, your ants serve as the transport system. They gather resources, deliver them to processing stations, and return materials to stockpiles. However, there’s a catch—your robotic ants have limited lifespans. Every movement they make, every task they complete, tick away at their lifetime until they eventually expire. This forces players to think critically about the efficiency of their logistics.
Efficiency is paramount in Microtopia. Unlike conveyor belts, which can be optimized endlessly in traditional factory sims, here you must manually create efficient pathways. The paths you draw dictate the movement of your worker ants, and each unnecessary detour or inefficient route can lead to wasted worker lifespans. A well-designed layout will see resources quickly transported from collection points to assemblers with minimal wastage, while a poorly planned colony will see worker ants dying en route, forcing constant replacements and slowing progress.
Visually, Microtopia embraces a clean and minimalist aesthetic. The robotic ants, glowing paths, and futuristic yet organic environments make the game feel unique. The sound design complements this with a calming yet immersive ambient soundtrack, making the gameplay feel meditative despite its strategic depth.
Gameplay
Microtopia starts players off with a structured tutorial, easing them into the mechanics of path drawing, resource gathering, and automation. Early on, the game feels somewhat relaxed, giving players the time to experiment and understand how to best optimize their colony’s workflow. However, as the game progresses, the challenge increases, demanding better logistical planning and more refined automation strategies.
One of the most compelling aspects of Microtopia is how it balances freedom with structured gameplay. While the game provides goals and objectives, it never forces you into one strict way of playing. Some players may choose to optimize every aspect of their colony for maximum efficiency, while others may experiment with sprawling networks and complex transport routes just to see how the system reacts.
The balance of micro and macro management is also impressive. You’re not just setting up machines and letting them run indefinitely—you have to account for worker lifespans, resource shortages, and the ever-present need for expansion. This adds a dynamic layer of challenge, as no single setup will be perfect forever. Instead, you’re constantly refining, tweaking, and adapting to keep your colony running smoothly.
And progression
Progression in Microtopia is also marked by unlocking new islands, each featuring distinct biomes with unique layouts and resources. These islands introduce fresh challenges, requiring players to rethink their strategies to adapt to new environments. Some islands may have scarce resources, demanding efficient extraction and transport solutions, while others may introduce difficult layouts interfere with efficiency.
Adding to the depth of progression is the expansive inventor unlock tree. Players can produce science points by utilizing inventor ants, a special class of workers that must be fed by the colony. This creates another layer of resource management, as players must decide between feeding the queen to generate more ants, which can then be combined into stronger units, or sustaining the inventor ants to unlock new technologies. The constant balancing act between expansion, efficiency, and technological advancement keeps the gameplay engaging and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Microtopia offers a fresh take on the factory-building genre. Its focus on efficient movement, worker lifespans, and creative logistics management makes it stand out from its peers. The challenge of creating optimized pathways without the reliance on traditional conveyor belts provides a unique gameplay experience that rewards careful planning and experimentation. While there are some rough edges, Microtopia is already a promising entry into the genre, and for those looking for a new challenge in automation and strategy, it’s well worth diving into. My main issue with Microtopia is the same as other games of the sort. every few hours I see my mistakes and either delete to rebuild, or start over.
Sydney isn’t just about its stunning harbor, famous beaches, and vibrant nightlife—it’s also home to some of the most luxurious and exciting land-based casinos in Australia. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for a night of fun and entertainment, these casinos offer an unforgettable experience. From high-stakes gaming floors to lavish hotels and gourmet dining, here are the top land-based casinos you can’t miss in Sydney.
1. The Star Sydney
If you’re talking about casinos in Sydney, The Star is the crown jewel. It’s the second-largest casino in Australia and the go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking for a premier gaming experience.
Why You Should Visit The Star:
Massive Gaming Floor: With hundreds of slot machines, electronic table games, and classic options like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, there’s no shortage of ways to test your luck.
VIP Gaming Areas: High rollers can indulge in exclusive VIP gaming rooms with premium service.
World-Class Dining: Think of celebrity chef restaurants like Sokyo, BLACK Bar & Grill, and Momofuku Seiobo.
Luxury Accommodation: The Star Grand Hotel & Residences offer plush accommodations with stunning views of the city skyline and Darling Harbour.
Live Entertainment: From concerts and theatre productions to sports events, The Star always has something going on.
2. Crown Sydney
Crown Sydney, located in the heart of Barangaroo, is all about opulence, luxury, and exclusivity. Unlike traditional casinos, it focuses more on high-stakes gambling, attracting a sophisticated crowd.
What Makes Crown Sydney Special?
High-Limit Gaming: This isn’t your average casino—Crown Sydney caters to premium players with world-class VIP gaming areas.
Unparalleled Luxury: The stunning Crown Towers offers some of the most luxurious hotel stays in Australia.
Michelin-Star Dining: Indulge in fine dining at Nobu, Woodcut, or a high-end cocktail at CIRQ rooftop bar.
Breathtaking Views: Located on Sydney Harbour, it offers some of the most spectacular water views in the city.
If you’re a casual player looking for a more relaxed casino vibe, The Star is your best bet. But if you’re after a high-end, VIP experience, Crown Sydney is where you’ll want to be.
3. Treasury Casino & Hotel (Honorable Mention for a Day Trip)
Okay, so Treasury Casino isn’t actually in Sydney—it’s in Brisbane. But if you’re up for a short flight, it’s worth mentioning for its old-world charm and heritage-listed building.
What’s Cool About Treasury Casino?
Historic Atmosphere: Unlike the modern aesthetic of Sydney’s casinos, this one is inside a grand 19th-century building.
Diverse Gaming Options: With over 1,300 gaming machines and plenty of table games, there’s something for everyone.
Boutique Hotel Stay: If you’re into old-school luxury, staying at the Treasury Hotel is a unique experience.
The Future of Casinos in Sydney
Sydney’s casino scene is already top-tier, but there’s always room for growth. With the rise of technology and digital gaming, the industry is evolving rapidly. While land-based casinos offer the thrill of real-life gaming, many players also enjoy the convenience of online platforms.
For those who prefer to play from the comfort of their home, exploring the best casino online Australia has to offer is a great way to experience gaming without stepping foot outside. With live dealer games, immersive experiences, and endless gaming options, online casinos are becoming an increasingly popular choice.
Final Thoughts
Sydney’s land-based casinos are more than just places to gamble—they’re entertainment hubs packed with world-class gaming, incredible restaurants, luxury accommodations, and top-notch nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of The Star, the ultra-exclusive vibe of Crown Sydney, or even a side trip to Treasury Casino, there’s a perfect spot for every type of player.
So, if you’re visiting Sydney and want a night to remember, don’t miss out on these iconic casinos. And if you ever feel like bringing the casino experience to your living room, you can always check out the best casino online Australia for some digital gaming fun!
Together We Live is an unusual post-apocalyptic endeavour. The sombre plot is juxtaposed by a haunting but equally touching pair of protagonists. The heroes evolve and grow together as they explore a dank and often humbling world. Moreover, they lean on one another as they learn and survive as one.
This tough and often slow visual novel was developed by Water Phoenix and published by KEMCO. Moreover, it has warnings for disturbing and uncomfortable gameplay elements. I can state that the warnings are necessary and the plot is often tough to read. However, the developer has steered away from typical gruesome imagery and the game benefits as a consequence.
Together We Live tells a gripping but arduous tale.
If you love your visual novels to flow like a river, Together We Live won’t be for you. At times, the plot is stodgy and painfully slow. Yet, this is a deliberate move as the characters explore each other’s personalities and the surrounding world. Moreover, the snail’s pace gameplay allows you to “enjoy” every melancholy and cold moment.
You play the part of Kyoya. She is an innocent girl who awakens in a poorly lit room. In front of her is a monster who wishes her no harm. This “monster” is a girl named Asagiri. The pair work together as they move through the world. As the story unfolds, you understand the sacrifice of Asagiri and both girls’ purpose in this strange limbo world.
Excellent storytelling.
Though the pace of Together We Live is occasionally testing, I loved the dialogue and the emotionally laced elements. Both protagonists must endure torture and pain in different ways. Asagiri suffers the deaths of every animal to atone for humanity’s sins. In contrast, Kyoya must understand her place in the world and why she exists.
The pair assist one another as their relationship builds. Their emotional frailties are exposed as each chapter unfolds. Yet, it is their unique insight and perspective on the world that makes this a fascinating game to play. Though I enjoyed the slow-burning plot, there were some repetitive elements and this was disappointing. Repetitive dialogue could and should have been avoided, but sadly, it wasn’t.
Together We Live is understated.
A post-apocalyptic setting can be a tough sell for a visual novel. Sadly, Together We Live doesn’t quite get it right. The backdrops are often understated and dare I say it, bland. Though the idea of an empty existence is well explored and presented nicely, it is a slog to spend hours looking at familiar imagery. This issue to one side, there were some nicely detailed elements. The imagery of fire and pain was cruel but great to look at.
The impressive audio supports the imagery. The simple sound effects and unusual soundtrack trickle away in the background. Consequently, you rarely notice the repetitive music or the dramatic tones. However, moments of genius make you sit back and pay attention. This subtle approach was great and I applaud the developers’ work.
Simple controls.
Visual novels are not challenging to play. Yet, Together We Live is easier than most. There are no branching storylines and no QTEs to master. Additionally, you may auto-play the text or skip it altogether. As such, you can sit back and enjoy the story unfolding with a drink and a snack.
Sadly, this is lacking both replay value and longevity. The game took me around 6 hours to complete and there is no reason to return. Once you finish your first playthrough, you have completed every achievement and exhausted the linear storyline.
Together We Live is a good visual novel.
Despite the lack of replay value, TogetherWe Live is a good visual novel. The strange setting and interesting protagonists keep you hooked from beginning to end. Furthermore, the story is bizarre and touching in equal measure. Accordingly, I enjoyed its melancholy ways and I recommend buying it here! Can you understand your purpose? Explore your surroundings, learn from each other, and discover what it is to be alive.
Twelve years ago, my journey as a hunter began with Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, a game that tested patience, skill, and sheer determination. From the cramped hallways of the Great Forest to the ferocious roars of Tigrex, I forged my skills in the harshest of environments. When Monster Hunter: World was announced, bringing the series back to mainline consoles, I was ecstatic. I poured countless hours into it across PS4, PS5, and PC, relishing in the refined combat and vast ecosystems. Now, with Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom has raised the bar yet again, delivering an experience that feels both nostalgic and ground-breaking.
A Living, Breathing Wilderness
Graphically, the game is good, but where it excels is the environment, effects, and animation. The new regions are not just visually stunning but alive in ways that demand adaptation. The environment is wonderfully crafted with shortcuts and secret areas scattered around every area. The weather effects and night/day differences stand out, altering not just the visuals but also the behaviour of monsters and even the landscape itself. Also some monsters will only appear in certain places at certain times or conditions which makes the world of wilds feel even more alive. These dynamic changes result in fantastic visuals while also keeping hunts fresh for longer.
The one big complaint I have is that there is no player home apart from the tents you can set up across the areas for fast travel, re stocking and equipment changes. they’re useful but the lack of a player home mean all the endemic life and huge aquatic life I fished out cannot be displayed anywhere. Although I have no doubt it will be added at a later date as a free update.
Combat – Blunt, Sharp or ranged, It’s now better
The essence of Monster Hunter combat remains intact—precise, methodical, and deeply satisfying. Weapon rebalancing ensures every playstyle feels smooth, and new mechanics like terrain-assisted attacks and seamless mounting add layers of depth. I usually switch up the weapons I use and started this journey off with a gunlance which felt great and powerful to use. I then played around with the glaive and eventually spent a lot of time with sword and shield. Across all these and many more I found every weapon feeling better than ever, with smoother transitions between counters and special moves.
From my time with the game, I’ve used all melee weapons, and each has new or refined attack moves, making every weapon feel good to use. The animations truly bring Wilds to life. Monster attacks and weapon strikes are detailed, theatrical, and smooth, making every hunt an absolute joy. regrettably I haven’t hunted with ranged weapons since I simply had too much fun with melee, but with some playing around at the beginning of the game they have also been given the same treatment as other weapons.
Performance – Mostly Smooth Sailing
Performance-wise, I had a few crashes early on, but they subsided completely later. The crashes only seemed to happen when I started an optional quest from a very specific location, occurring three or four times before stopping entirely. Frame rates have been stable, with no noticeable drops apart from a brief dip just before a loading screen when a quest starts, but it lasts for only a second as the hunter flies off.
Story and Progression
The game starts with extensive character customization for both the hunter and Palico, before throwing you into the world where the beta began. Without giving away spoilers, I can say the story seems far more prominent than in previous Monster Hunter games. While the game opens up rather quickly, the ‘Guild’ restricts hunting monsters outside of your progression, allowing you to kill and carve them but without extra rewards. This prevents fast-tracking armour sets early, making grinding inefficient for those looking to jump ahead. The way starting hunting quest works is you no longer have to come back after every hunt. After a quest is complete, you’ll receive your rewards and you may carry on from where the monsters last stand took place. You can then find another monster, deal enough damage and a quest will start resulting in farming monster parts, not being interrupted by conversations with the handler.
Endgame content is plentiful, ensuring hunters have more to do after completing the main story as is monster hunter fashion. I finished the story in about 20 hours at a medium pace, I still took my time to upgrade my arsenal and wander around the beautiful environments. After reaching the endgame, there are plenty of additions to keep hunters going. At the time of writing this review, I have spent around 70 hours in the game with no plans to stop. Of course veterans will know, that’s where the monster hunter experience truly begins.
Monsters – A Perfect Blend of Old and New
One of the biggest highlights of Monster Hunter Wilds is its roster of monsters. With a roster bigger than any title on release and of course with the promise of more on the way. There are a lot of returning monsters that genuinely put a smile on my face, bringing back nostalgic battles with fresh animations and behaviours. At the same time, the brand-new monsters fit perfectly into the series, feeling like natural additions rather than forced newcomers. I won’t spoil any specific monsters, as I know some players prefer to experience each one for themselves, but rest assured, there are plenty of surprises in store for both veterans and newcomers.
Difficulty and Exploration
Going back to the environments, I wasn’t as compelled to explore as much as I was in World. That was mostly due to not much being needed for success. There is no Palico equipment to be found as it was in worlds. But there is still a way to expand your felyne friends arsenal. Resources can now be gathered with the clutch claw so you’re always collecting as your sekriet auto runs to your target. That of course is less and less necessary with every title which is a shame but I do understand the tediousness of crafting whetstones is not for everyone.
The game is easier in my opinion—even now, in the endgame, I’m not struggling with most hunts. Throughout the main story, I think I only fainted three times, and all were due to me getting too hasty and not taking a few seconds to heal. The main reason the game seems easier is the wound system. It allows for some spectacular scenes, with every weapon having its own focus attack, but the damage output combined with frequent monster knockdowns results in high damage with little risk.
I played through the game Solo, and I hope the multiplayer scaling is enough to not make the hunts trivial. Though I found you can now call in an SOS flare in offline mode to get backup from various characters you meet along your journey.
These guild members have plenty of other benefits, through side quest you can build up your relationship with characters which results in bonuses such as item collecting, new palico moves and equipment and said NPC’s appearing around various locations to help in hunts with their inventions.
Conclusion – A Near-Perfect Evolution
Monster Hunter Wilds isn’t just another entry in the franchise—it’s an evolution. It embraces the core identity of the series while pushing boundaries in ways that keep veterans engaged and newcomers welcomed. Every hunt is an adventure, every battle a test of skill, and every moment in the world a story waiting to unfold. While the difficulty may not be as punishing as past entries, the fluid combat, stunning world, and refined mechanics make it a joy to play. Play Monster Hunter Wilds Multiplayer on PS5 now.
Effortlessly pause/resume music with wearing detection.
Bluetooth® V5.4 for seamless audio streaming and a stable connection.
Compatible with the EDIFIER ConneX App for additional functions: drainage function, personalize control settings, find your earbuds, and more.
Specifications
What’s in the box?
The box contains the earbuds, charging cable and instructions.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The earbuds are really lightweight – weighing approximately 5.8g each and are very comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
They are highly resistant to dust and capable of withstanding powerful water jets, offering dependable performance in various environments. And don’t worry if you get some water droplets in them, just use the drainage function via the app and the earbuds will expel any water droplets. That’s pretty cool!
Unlike normal earbuds, you can wear them in either ear and they will automatically adjust accordingly. When you pop them on they will start playing and when you remove them they will stop – simple.
The sound quality is really good and is very clear, and even works really well when making and receiving phone calls.
The battery life is great, lasting around 28 hours when used with the charging case, whilst a 15-minutes fast charge will give you 3 hours of playback time if you are in a rush. When fully charged the case can be used 3 times to recharge the earbuds – you get 7 hours of playback per full charge.
You can also use the Edifier Connect App to customise control settings, explore rich and practical functions and discover more music possibilities – definitely take a look at it as it can really personalise the experience for you.
The Edifier Comfo C R1 Open-ear True Wireless Earbuds are available now priced around £59.99 and are available in a variety of different colours.
Creative writing is a thing of beauty. However, many people are distracted by modern living and the noise that comes with it. Thankfully, ReMarkable has found a solution to this problem. Their incredible writing tablet removes the hustle and bustle of the world while letting you focus on the task at hand. The ReMarkable Paper Pro builds on the foundations of the ReMarkable 2 tablet. I reviewed the latter and here is a link to that piece.
This new and improved writing tool surpassed my expectations. I love the ReMarkble 2 tablet, and I couldn’t find a fault. Accordingly, it would take a lot to blow that out of the water. Spoiler alert, the ReMarkable Paper Pro does it with ease. However, if you own the original version, you may not be willing to part with your hard-earned cash. Therefore, give me a moment of your time to highlight the amazing benefits of this jaw-dropping device.
What’s in the box of the ReMarkable Paper Pro?
The packaging delivers a professional and irresistible edge. When my tablet arrived, I couldn’t wait to rip it open.
The ReMarkable Paper Pro is sleek and pleasant to hold. Furthermore, the large 11.8″ colour display is responsive and great to look at.
The Marker Plus Pen is a joy to use. Moreover, it has a built-in eraser and the magnetic body keeps it attached to the device. Alternatively, a Marker Pen can be selected at the checkout.
2 unique cases can be selected. I was sent the Type Folio and the Folio options. The Type Folio is the best of both solution and this was my go-to choice.
A slim USB-C cable is used to charge the device.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
The major selling point for the ReMarkable Paper Pro is its impressive colour screen. Unlike its peers, ReMarkable hasn’t simply placed a colour filter on top of the black and white backdrop. Instead, they use Canvas Colour Technology. This feature uses kinetic physical colour particles to react to every touch of the screen. The result is a responsive and accurate design that pushed this beyond its predecessor. The pleasant colours don’t jump off the screen like a vibrant cyberpunk display. Instead, the muted red, blue, cyan, magenta, and yellow are unique without being obnoxious. There are 9 distinct options and plenty of blends for you to choose from.
Another nice feature is the adjustable reading light. This isn’t a harsh backlight that hurts your eyes in the dark. No, it is a front light that gently highlights the words on the screen. Though it isn’t obvious during the day, I was impressed when using the device at night. The glow wasn’t overpowering, but I could continue working and reading without distracting others. The lack of harsh blue light is a godsend! Furthermore, as your eyes are not strained, you can work or read in comfort for longer periods.
The battery life is another feature to shout about. I could use this device for around 2 weeks between charges. This was amazing especially when you consider the display charges the Marker Plus Pen as well. If you were to run out of juice, the provided USB-C cable gets you back in the game in a few hours. Consequently, you can keep on top of your work or your latest novel without worrying about your battery life.
A phenomenal writing experience.
I, like most of the modern writing community am stuck to my phone and laptop for hours on end. Yet, I much prefer the feel and natural movement of pen on paper. Luckily, the ReMarkable Paper Pro replicates this with ease. The latency-free pen slides over the screen while delivering pinpoint accuracy. The sharp nib scrapes and grips like a biro on paper. This classic approach made my heart sing. Not only do you get the benefit of modern tech, but you enjoy the freedom of pen on paper.
The Marker Plus Pen has a stunning balance that is pleasant in your hand. The movement is intuitive and writing and doodling is child’s play. Moreover, if you were to make an error, the built-in eraser makes correcting your work a cinch. Alternatively, the wonderful UI allows you to erase swathes of work in seconds.
ReMarkable Paper Pro and its distraction-free design.
Modern tech is handy, fast, and hard to resist. However, it is a time sink and once it has its claws in you, you struggle to break free. Luckily, the ReMarkable Paper Pro offers the best of both worlds. There are no emails and notifications to distract you. Additionally, if you leave your phone in your bag, you will not get FaceBook, YouTube, X, and other social media apps hassling you.
This may feel alien and isolating, but it is amazing to be free. When you combine this mindset with the classic pen-on-paper atmosphere, your creative juices will flow. Though you cannot be truly free from the modern world, the ReMarkable Paper Pro is the closest thing to it that you’ll ever get.
Build quality.
ReMarkable and exceptional build quality go hand-in-hand. The accessories are sublime and no matter which setup you plump for, you will not be disappointed. I recommend the Type Folio case even though it adds a considerable sum to the final bill. This hard-wearing option keeps your tablet protected while offering the freedom of a small form factor keyboard. The low actuation distance and soft touch inputs create a responsive and quiet working experience. Furthermore, it adds little weight for a massive working gain.
The Marker Plus Pen has extra nibs provided as standard. The nibs are robust and I’ve yet to run through my original set from the ReMarkable 2. The weight of the pen is pleasant and I like how it feels when using it. Though it is noticeably different from a biro or fountain pen, it flows perfectly and takes moments to familiarise yourself with its quirks.
Finally, the ReMarkable Paper Pro is beautiful to look at. The silver body is sturdy and has 4 feet to enhance grip. There is a position for the pen to attach and a simple activation button on one edge. To the bottom is the USB-C charging port. Each is well positioned and they will not get in the way as you work. The colour screen delivers a pleasant Ereader experience and the impressive front light offers a warm glow that doesn’t hurt your eyes.
Usability.
The ReMarkable Paper Pro is so intuitive and user-friendly that technophobes will have a glorious time. No matter your technical ability, you will thrive with one of these by your side. On top of this, it integrates with many modern programs and apps for seamless data transfer. Furthermore, you can display your screen on a larger device for those important meetings.
If this isn’t enough, you can adjust and scribble on any PDF you fancy. This worked perfectly for route maps and other key driving notes. What’s more, the handy highlighters ensure that you never forget any essential information. This element of the tablet was the hardest for me to master. However, once I got to grips with using the free-to-download app, I never looked back.
Is the ReMarkable Paper Pro worth it?
I’m 100% sold on everything that ReMarkable has released. The products are exceptional and the ReMarkable Paper Pro is no different. If you own the ReMarkable 2, this could be a hard sale. Yet, if you want a fresh start with a better colour screen and all the features you’ve come to know and love, it is a no-brainer. The build quality is out of this world and I adore the nostalgia of pen on paper. Furthermore, the distraction-free approach is always going to be a winner. Accordingly, I adore this device and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on ReMarkable can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Today, we’re reviewing Phoodle, a game where you have to solve food-themed puzzles in order to win prizes, similar to Wordle. Previously, putting together a game like this would involve a lot of work on the part of developers, which is mainly why it hasn’t been done before. However, AI is making the process more straightforward, by connecting words with AI-driven images that can show anything the AI wants without having to be edited by humans or photographed in the real world.
Many people love looking at food, so making Phoodle food-based was a stroke of genius by the people behind it. The idea that you could embed puzzles into what look like images of food is a clever idea and means that players will never look at their real-life meals in the same way again.
Difficulty
Is Phoodle difficult? As with most games, it has a beginner-friendly mode. However, there are difficulty levels for more established players that offer additional opportunities to work out clues and suggest the correct word.
What’s nice about the game is that you can sometimes reach out to the community for a Phoodle hint, as you might if you got stuck in a crossword game. These keep things fun and allow you to progress if you find yourself stuck and can’t move forward with the next problem.
Educational Value
Built into all of this is the game’s educational value. Phoodle teaches you all sorts of things, including new culinary terms and trivia. But at the end of playing it, you feel more confident with food in general and the rules for coming up with new words.
Of course, the main thrust of the game relates to the puzzles it gets you to solve. But as you run through it, you can feel it expanding your vocabulary and ability to think critically about language.
Replayability
Is Phoodle replayable? Like other simple brain games, the answer is a strong “yes.” Phoodle is constantly changing all the time, meaning that you can go back into it whenever you want, sit down, and run through it again. Usually, it is just as enjoyable and intellectually stimulating as the first time.
Of course, Phoodle gets you to solve the same type of puzzles, essentially. However, the inclusion of AI food images means that the pictures change all the time, so there’s essentially no limit to the number of combinations you can explore.
Design
Phoodle has a nice design, simply because of how the food appears on the page. It just looks good, which contrasts with a lot of word-based games, which can be cartoon-like.
The challenge, of course, is in the accuracy of the images. For the game to work, Phoodle’s AI has to be quite realistic and generate pictures that are true to life and describe the scene.
Social Sharing
Of course, like most modern games, Phoodle has social sharing features. These allow players to share their insights and assist people who might be new to the game, helping them get to grips with what it offers and how it works.
Social sharing is becoming an increasingly valuable part of today’s gaming landscape. Of course, it’s by no means perfect. But this sort of integration with platforms like Twitch and YouTube makes these games more visual and helps players share their Phoodle experience, including their genius insights.
Learning Curve
Phoodle has a fairly shallow learning curve in the sense that players can get to grips with the basic concept in a few weeks. However, being creative and developing new ideas to link pictures to words is challenging, just like it is in Wordle.
New players start playing Phoodle all the time, so the difficulty behind the concept is minimal. However the game requires people to think outside the box, and sometimes developing a creative solution can take a long time.
Customization
Customizing games is actually much harder in Phoodle than in most others because it isn’t a traditional sandbox environment. Adjusting the underlying rules isn’t usually possible. Furthermore, while difficulty levels are available, they depend more on the individual player’s verbal and creative abilities than they do anything objective.
Ads
Of course, some Phoodle games have ads built in, but it depends on which developer you use. Not everyone in the industry is trying to aggressively monetize the in-game experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Phoodle is a game that offers a reasonable learning curve and high replayability. It’s popular among those who love solving crosswords or Sudoku puzzles in their free time.
