With Captain America Brave New World released in cinemas in a few weeks time, Hasbro have launched the new Marvel Legends Series Marvel’s Falcon.
MARVEL STUDIOS’ CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD: This collectible Marvel figure in 6-inch scale (15 cm) is inspired by the appearance of Marvel’s Falcon in Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World — a great gift for collectors and fans ages 4 and up
DELUXE DESIGN AND ARTICULATION: This figure features over 20 points of articulation and deco inspired by Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World, including a highly articulated wing backpack
CHARACTER-INSPIRED ACCESSORIES: This officially licensed Marvel’s Falcon action figure comes with 8 accessories
WINDOW BOX PACKAGING: Display the MCU on your shelf with collectible window box packaging, featuring MCU-inspired logos and design
A MULTIVERSE OF COLLECTIBLES: Look for more Legends collectibles to build a Captain America 6 inch action figure collection on your shelf
THE LATEST WING-BEARER: A former Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, Joaquin Torres has picked up Sam’s old wings to take on the role of Falcon
Hasbro’s Marvel Legends Series Marvel’s Falcon is available now priced around £39.99.
The Vibe75 Keyboard from Mechlands is an attractive proposition. The south-facing RGB is appealing and the metal effect case is light but great to look at. Alongside this, it has a versatile display screen and media knob. Accordingly, you can focus on key stats or control settings with ease.
On top of this, it is compact and versatile. This device is suitable for Mac and PC users. Moreover, you can use the USB-C cable for a wired connection. Alternatively, you can connect via Bluetooth or wireless with the cleverly concealed USB dongle.
Finally, if you work during your commute or you have a mini workstation, this device is perfect. The lightweight design and 75% form factor ensure it is easy to carry and small enough for the tightest of spaces.
What’s in the box of the Vibe75 Keyboard?
The packaging will catch your eye. However, it is a little flimsy and mine was unfortunately damaged in transit.
The Vibe75 Keyboard comes in several colours. I chose the dark metallic option and I love it.
A USB-C cable is strong and suitable for most gaming or workstations.
The USB dongle is hidden beside one of the support feet.
Pull the keycaps with the pulling tool.
Replace the display screen with the handy media knob.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
The Vibe75 Keyboard is ideal if you love to type or adore fast-paced gaming. The 1000 Hz polling rate keeps you ahead of your competition. Though I noticed latency differences between wired and wireless connectivity, the impact was minimal and I enjoyed low-latency gaming no matter my connection.
This device has 3 unique Bluetooth profiles. These can be selected with macros and this makes it wonderfully versatile. I connected this keyboard to my PC, Laptop, and mobile phone and it connected with ease. If you wish to connect to the USB dongle or a Mac, there are 2 handy switches at the rear of the device.
Wireless gaming isn’t my go-to option. I worry about battery life, and the fear of connection problems is a turn-off. Luckily, the 4000 mAh battery lasts ages, and it can be charged with ease. What’s more, I enjoyed uninterrupted and stable wireless connectivity.
Usability.
The Vibe75 Keyboard is remarkably user-friendly. The small form factor comprises 79 keys. Moreover, the FN button allows you to work through built-in macros to overcome the missing buttons. If you must have a Numpad, maybe the Vibe99 Keyboardis a good alternative.
Flicking between settings was simple, and I liked the handy data screen. This small display highlights the Bluetooth profile and your battery life. This was great, as no one likes running out of juice mid-game. Changing your settings was as easy as remembering each macro and flicking a switch. Consequently, this is a great option for inexperienced gamers.
Build quality.
MechLands kindly sent me the Blade75 Keyboard to review last month. I adore this device as the metal case and heavy nature were a real eye-turner. The Vibe75 Keyboard focuses on a different audience. The plastic case with a metallic effect is lightweight but tough. Additionally, it mixes sci-fi and steampunk for a truly unique look.
I love the blend of black and deep reds. The keycaps look amazing and the south-facing RGB pops against the dark livery. If you love to experiment with your peripherals, this keyboard has hot-swappable 3/5-pin switches. Subsequently, no soldering is needed if you wish to use your favourite switches.
I’m impressed with the under 1 kg weight and the 3-step feet. This simple approach ensures that you have the most pleasant working and gaming time no matter your preference. Finally, the plate-mounted stabilisers create a comfortable and responsive typing experience. The mechanical edge has a nice audio profile and using this for typing and gaming was a real joy.
Is the Vibe75 Keyboard worth it?
I have tried and tested plenty of great gaming keyboards. Some are extremely expensive and unique, and others are more affordable but lack a wow factor. Luckily, the Vibe75 Keyboard is affordable but it looks incredible. Additionally, it has a great battery life and I loved its versatility. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Mechlands can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Here we review the myFirst CareBuds – Smart Transparency Mode True Wireless Stereo Earbuds for Kids.
Wireless Earbuds for Kids! Enjoy premium audio quality with small earbuds, safe maximum volume limit, and smart transparency which lets outside audio in when they’re on the move.
Features
Small Ear Tips
85 decibel limit
Up to 25 hours of battery life
Water resistant and rugged
Movement Activated Transparency Mode
Anti-Loss Strap and Lanyard Included
Built-In Microphone
True Wireless Connection
What’s in the box?
The box contains myFirst CareBuds, Stickers, Anti-loss lanyard, Hand lanyard, Ear tips and a Type-C Charging Cable.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The myFirst CareBuds look like a set of AirPods, which will make your child very happy!
They are easy to charge with the supplied cable and a fully charged battery lasts around 6 hours.
The sound quality is really good, and myFirst CareBuds also have a unique feature that automatically switches them to transparency mode when the earbuds detect body movement. This is a crucial safety feature for kids, as it allows them to hear their surroundings while walking on the road or engaging in other activities. With a maximum volume of 85db, these earbuds are specifically engineered to ensure that kids won’t be able to turn up the volume to potentially harmful levels.
They are IPX4 rated so they are protected from water splashes such as rain or sweat, but dont use them in the shower.
The myFirst CareBuds come with user-friendly touch controls that make it easy for kids to play and stop music, pick up and end phone calls, and manually activate the transparency mode. This feature enables children to operate the earbuds with ease and convenience, without having to fumble with complicated buttons or controls.
The myFirst CareBuds – Smart Transparency Mode True Wireless Stereo Earbuds for Kids, are available now priced around £59 and come in either Blue, White, Space Blue or Cotton Candy.
Here we take a closer look at Connex – the data transfer and multi-charger connector.
Say goodbye to tangled cables and missing connections! Connex, a revolutionary cable adaptor hub that simplifies your life and keeps all your devices connected.
In today’s gadget-filled world, juggling a multitude of devices can be a nightmare. Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras, chargers – the list goes on. Unfortunately, the variety of connection types often creates a tangled mess of cables in your bag or around your home and workplace.
Connex is a compact and convenient solution that offers standard charging, PD charging, and data transfer, all in one handy gadget. No more carrying tonnes of different cables or hunting for the right connection. The Connex provides a single, organised hub to keep your devices powered and connected.
The Connex boasts a sleek design with a durable ABS shell, flexible silicone rubber connector arms, and nickel-plated steel reinforcers for long-lasting performance. It supports multiple devices simultaneously, with current flow adapting to the input power for optimal charging.
Key Features:
Multiple Charging Options: Standard charging, PD charging, and data transfer.
Tangle-Free Design: Keep your cables organised and avoid frustration.
Universal Compatibility: Works with a wide range of devices.
Durable Construction: Built to last with high-quality materials.
Compact and Portable: Fits easily in your bag or pocket.
The Connex is available in both black and jade for just £29.99 at Kraftedtech.com.
City Transport Simulator Tram is the perfect game for lovers of light railway. This tram driving and partial business simulation tool captures the tram driver role perfectly. Moreover, there is plenty of DLC if you wish to expand your experience. Consequently, if you fall for its slow and loud charms, you’ll lose hours to its relaxing ways.
This simulation game was developed by ViewApp and published by Dovetail Games. Moreover, it is a single-player title that can be viewed from many perspectives. Accordingly, it’ll appeal to many sim-loving gamers. My only complaint is the lack of business complexity. Unlike its peers, this game refuses to explore this key aspect. Yet, this shortcoming has its advantages. Thankfully, the lack of complexity allows you to focus on the driving and little else.
City Transport Simulator Tram tells no story.
Simulation games are renowned for poor or no story at all. City Transport Simulator Tram sits in the latter category. Instead of a plot, you are told to run a company and get on with your day. This into-the-fire approach should have been daunting, but it wasn’t. Thankfully, you are talked through the basics and nothing is left to chance.
Alongside the main game mode is a sandbox option. When I wanted a mindless moment, I’d select this mode. Instead of creating routes, buying trams, and worrying about passenger satisfaction, I could simply drive. This was great fun as the city felt alive. Additionally, the signalling can be complex, so the sandbox option removes these distractions.
It feels tougher than it is.
First, you’ll feel out of your depth. Creating routes, picking trams, and learning the fundamentals is an uphill battle. However, you soon get into your stride as you motor around the city. Stations appear quickly and starting and stopping correctly can take some practice. On top of this, remembering how to open the doors, following a timetable, and avoiding pedestrians is quite the task.
If you feel that things are too much, you can simplify the controls. This was great as you didn’t have to worry about the doors or any of the fiddly switches. Instead, you concentrate on speeds, signals, and stations. This is the perfect option for younger or less able gamers. Alternatively, if you simply want to bum around and enjoy driving, this is the perfect approach.
Where is the business model?
City Transport Simulator Tram lacks a business model. This was a shame as it would have padded out the core action. The only business aspects focus on route planning and tram acquisition. Your money and XP are earned by doing your job correctly. Abide by the speeds, acknowledge the signals, and stop at every station and you’ll be doing just fine.
City Transport Simulator Tram looks good but needs a modern polish.
Like its peers, City Transport Simulator Tram uses repetitive character models. This made me chuckle and I had twins, triplets, and quads on board my vehicle. This was lazy from the developer as it reduced the realism. Alongside this, the world feels very angular and everything is unnecessarily sharp. Moreover, there is rubber banding when you view your vehicle using the exterior camera. This isn’t a problem, per se, but it lacks a modern polish.
The audio isn’t exceptional, it is realistic and I liked the familiar noises. Furthermore, there is a sense of hustle and bustle and the engines, bells, whistles, and doors closing were great. My only complaint is the lack of other traffic sounds. I’d have liked car horns to honk or a connection with other tram drivers.
Excellent controls.
Though there is plenty to learn, the excellent tutorial gets you on your way. There are signals, stations, speeds, doors, and many other aspects to work with. Thankfully, the simple UI and control layout keep you on track. Subsequently, I never felt out of my depth.
The replay value is questionable. There is plenty of DLC and a large city to navigate. However, the lack of business mechanics holds it back. If you want a purely driving simulation, you’ll adore it. Yet, if you want to deliver anything more than customer satisfaction, you’ll be left wanting.
City Transport Simulator Tram impressed me.
The missing business mechanics were a mistake. This will annoy hardcore sim gamers. Moreover, the repetitive character models dent the realistic finish. However, the driving is fun, and I like the tiered difficulty settings. Additionally, each tram is unique and creating a new route was interesting. It’s a shame that it doesn’t tick every box though. Despite the shortcomings, I was impressed, and I recommend buying it here! Can you master each tram? Learn the basics, navigate each route, and become a professional tram driver.
“Chicken Police: Into the HIVE!” is a sequel to the cult hit “Chicken Police: Paint it Red!” Developed by The Wild Gentlemen, the game brings back the iconic film-noir style, anthropomorphic characters, and rich storytelling that made its predecessor stand out. With its intricate plot, atmospheric visuals, and engaging gameplay, the game solidifies its place as a must-play for fans of narrative-driven adventures.
A Return to Clawville
The game reunites players with the charmingly gruff Sonny Featherland and his hot-headedpartner Marty MacChicken. The story kicks off as the duo is called to investigate amysterious conspiracy unraveling within the insect underworld of Clawville. What begins asa seemingly straightforward case spirals into a web of murder, betrayal, and political intrigue. The story masterfully balances its humor and drama, creating an experience thatfeels both weighty and delightfully absurd.
The writing is top-notch, with every line of dialogue steeped in noir tropes. The charactersare memorable, from the stoic Sonny to the flamboyant secondary cast, which includes aflamboyant mantis informant and a mysterious beetle crime lord. The voice acting is stellar,with over 30 fully voiced characters bringing the world of Clawville to life. The chemistrybetween Sonny and Marty is particularly strong, with their witty banter and camaraderieserving as a highlight.
A Visual Feast
Visually, “Into the HIVE!” is a work of art. The game’s black-and-white aesthetic, accented with splashes of color, enhances its noir feel. The environments are highly detailed, with over 35 locations to explore, ranging from dingy back alleys to opulent insect hideouts. Each scene feels alive, filled with small details that enrich the world-building. The art style perfectly complements the tone, blending gritty realism with a touch of whimsy.
The character designs are equally impressive. The anthropomorphic animals and insects are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, their expressions and movements conveying a surprising amount of emotion. The use of cinematic angles and dramatic lighting further immerses players in the story.
Gameplay: A Mix of Old and New
“Into the HIVE!” retains the point-and-click mechanics of its predecessor while introducing new elements to keep things fresh. Players will engage in detective work, interrogations, and puzzle-solving. The interrogation system has been refined, requiring players to carefully analyze their suspects’ statements and choose responses wisely. These sequences are challenging but rewarding, adding depth to the gameplay.
The puzzles are varied and well-integrated into the narrative. From cracking safes to piecing together clues, each task feels purposeful and satisfying. Exploration is encouraged, with plenty of hidden details and optional conversations to uncover. However, the pacing occasionally suffers when puzzles disrupt the flow of the narrative, though these moments are infrequent.
Sound Design and Music
The sound design is another standout aspect. The jazzy soundtrack is evocative of classic noir films, with sultry saxophone melodies and moody piano chords setting the tone. The sound effects, from the rustling of papers to the clinking of glasses, further enhance the immersion. The voice acting deserves special praise, with each actor delivering nuanced performances that bring their characters to life.
Minor Shortcomings
While “Into the HIVE!” excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. The pacing, as mentioned, can be uneven, particularly during longer puzzle sequences. Additionally, some players might find the narrative’s reliance on noir clichés predictable, though others will appreciate it as an homage to the genre. Lastly, while the game’s humor is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, a few jokes may miss the mark for some audiences.
Verdict
“Chicken Police: Into the HIVE!” is a worthy successor to “Paint it Red!” and an excellent example of storytelling in games. Its gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and engaging gameplay combine to create an unforgettable experience. Despite minor pacing issues, the game’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Fans of noir, narrative-driven games, or quirky, anthropomorphic characters will find much to love here. With its strong sense of style and substance, “Into the HIVE!” earns a well-deserved 8.5 out of 10. It’s a game that proves even chickens can be detectives—and darn good ones at that.
Online gaming has become a global phenomenon, attracting millions of players across various platforms. Whether you’re exploring a sandbox game like Minecraft, engaging in competitive multiplayer matches, or simply enjoying the social aspects of online gaming, the experience can be both thrilling and immersive. However, the online gaming world isn’t without its risks. Whether you’re using satellite internet or you have a mobile broadband connection, it’s important to get connected and stay connected for longer. You want your connection as safe as possible and whether you use a VPN to help with this or not, it all starts with a secure connection. There are several threats that can ruin your progress, steal your personal information, or destroy your gaming experience altogether.
This article looks at the common threats that can negatively impact your gaming journey and provides actionable advice on how to protect yourself.
Account Hacking and Identity Theft
Threat: Account hacking is one of the most severe risks in the online gaming world. Hackers often target gaming accounts to steal personal information, in-game items, or progress. In games where time and effort are spent leveling up, a hacked account can mean the loss of hours of hard work. Identity theft can also result from compromised accounts, leading to further consequences outside of gaming.
How to Protect Yourself:
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: A strong password is your first line of defense. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple platforms and use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, enable 2FA. This adds an extra layer of security to your account, requiring you to verify your identity through another device.
Be Cautious with Third-Party Programs: Be wary of downloading software or cheats from untrusted sources. These could contain malware that puts your account at risk.
Phishing Scams
Threat: Phishing is a deceptive tactic used to trick you into providing sensitive information, such as your login credentials or credit card details. Phishing attempts often come in the form of fake emails, in-game messages, or pop-up ads. These messages may appear legitimate, offering promotions, free items, or account recovery options that are, in fact, designed to steal your personal data.
Check for Signs of Phishing: Look for misspellings, incorrect URLs, or unfamiliar email addresses. Legitimate gaming companies will never ask for your password through email or direct messages.
Use Anti-Phishing Software: Many antivirus programs offer anti-phishing features that can help block malicious websites before you even click on them.
Server Downtime and DDoS Attacks
Threat: A distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack is a significant threat to online gaming. These attacks overwhelm a server with excessive traffic, causing it to crash and preventing legitimate players from accessing the game. In the worst-case scenario, server downtime can result in lost progress, ruined competitive events, or a poor gaming experience. Furthermore, players who are the target of a DDoS attack may experience lag or disconnection.
How to Protect Yourself:
Choose a Reliable Hosting Provider: One of the best ways to ensure smooth gameplay and minimal downtime is by hosting your game on a trusted provider. For example, when hosting a server, consider using services that offer strong DDoS protection and a reliable infrastructure to avoid interruptions.
Use a VPN: A VPN can help protect your IP address from being targeted in DDoS attacks when playing on public or untrusted servers.
Report DDoS Attacks: If you notice signs of an attack or server downtime, report it immediately to the game’s customer support team.
In-Game Cheating and Exploits
Threat: Cheating can ruin the integrity of online games, whether it’s through aimbots, wallhacks, or other exploits. While some players may engage in cheating to advance quickly, it often leads to unfair advantages, ruining the experience for others. Moreover, cheaters can compromise the safety of servers and potentially steal in-game items or progress.
How to Protect Yourself:
Play on Trusted Servers: Choose servers that actively monitor and ban cheaters. This can help ensure that your gameplay is not disrupted by malicious players.
Avoid Cheats and Exploits: While it may seem tempting to use cheats for an easy advantage, these can result in account bans or data loss. Stick to legitimate methods of progressing in the game.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a cheater, report them to the game’s moderation team to help maintain a fair and enjoyable environment for everyone.
Loss of Progress Due to Server or Platform Issues
Threat: Many online games require players to invest significant amounts of time to level up or gather in-game resources. Losing that progress can be devastating, especially if the game or server experiences a crash or data corruption. Unfortunately, server outages, glitches, or technical errors can lead to the loss of hard-earned achievements.
How to Protect Yourself:
Back Up Your Progress: If the game allows, regularly back up your progress, either through cloud saves or local backups. This ensures that you can restore your progress if anything goes wrong.
Host on Reliable Servers: If you’re hosting a multiplayer game, use reputable server hosting providers who prioritize uptime and stability. With Minecraft server hosting from a reliable provider, you can rest assured that your server is safe and your progress is secure.
Check for Server Maintenance: Always be aware of scheduled server maintenance or updates. These events may cause temporary downtimes, so staying informed will prevent you from losing progress unexpectedly.
Toxicity and Harassment in Gaming Communities
Threat:Online gaming communities can sometimes be a breeding ground for toxic behavior, including bullying, harassment, and verbal abuse. Toxicity can negatively impact your experience, especially if you’re trying to enjoy a game that requires teamwork or cooperation. Harassment may even drive you to quit playing altogether.
How to Protect Yourself:
Use Mute and Block Features: Most games come with tools to mute or block players who engage in toxic behavior. Take advantage of these features to protect yourself from harassment.
Report Abusive Players: If you encounter players who are violating the game’s code of conduct, report them to the developers or moderators. This helps create a healthier gaming environment.
Play with Friends: Playing with people you trust can significantly reduce your exposure to toxic individuals. Building a positive social circle can help make your gaming experience more enjoyable.
Poor Security on Private Servers
Threat: Hosting your own game on a private server can be an excellent way to have full control over your gaming experience. However, if the server is not properly secured, it could become vulnerable to attacks or unauthorized access, leading to the loss of your progress or personal data.
How to Protect Yourself:
Use Secure Server Hosting Providers: Choose a server hosting provider that offers robust security measures, such as firewalls and DDoS protection. Consider providers that offer automatic backups and real-time monitoring for added peace of mind.
Keep Software Updated: Make sure both the game and server software are up-to-date with the latest security patches. Developers frequently release updates to fix vulnerabilities.
Set Strong Server Permissions: Limit access to your server by requiring strong passwords and setting permissions that restrict who can make changes to the server.
Summing Up
Online gaming is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it comes with its fair share of risks. By following the advice in this article, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and choosing reliable hosting providers, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering these threats. Staying vigilant and proactive will help you enjoy the best that online gaming has to offer while minimizing the risks that can ruin your gaming progress.
Developed by byteparrot and Published by Neonhive Games, Slopecrashers is a SnowSlope racing Extreme Sports game with Animal Characters.
There are Extreme sports games and RaceKart games but a cross between is quite a rare scene. So a glass raised to Slopecrashers for attempting such a novel idea. My sympathies for the boring result though.
Hindsight is a dangerous drug. It always makes you feel like a cloth trapped on a gutter drain… wet.
Downhill from here
As you could guess from the name, Slopecrashers is a game about riding a snowboard down a snow slope but little did you know, you will doing so as a penguin… Or other Snow based animals. Sadly, that’s as far as enjoyment goes.
From the trailer, I had expected a Tony Hawk Pro Skater type of control scheme but it did not take long for looks to do their disappointing best.
The characters heading downhill are nothing more than cars with the animation of some bipedal creature. Felt like one of those animal mods from GTA5. Just plan disappointment.
I said Cars but it is more so like Karts.
Thank God for Mario Kart
The mixture of Extreme sports and a Kart game is a stretch. The gameplay is just a sorry attempt to make Mario Kart with alternate animation. It even has powerups and other objects to throw at your enemies.
The question then arises… How does that play?
It seems.
All the maps feel the same, the controls are a little annoying to control, and the powerups are nothing more than the DefaultPowerupsforKartgame.file and do not spark any joy.
The only thing remotely unique about Slopecrashers is its ability to let you perform stunts, but even that turns out to be nothing more than a cheap trick. In games like Skate or Tony Hawk, the thrill of doing stunts comes from the very real risk of failure. When you miss a trick, fall off your board, or crash, there’s a sense of consequence that makes each successful trick feel earned and exciting. It adds a layer of tension and challenge that keeps you engaged, pushing you to improve. But that vital element of risk is completely stripped away here.
In Slopecrashers, pulling off a stunt is as simple as pressing a button. There’s no skill involved, no precision required, and, worst of all, there’s no chance of failure.
Once you press that button, an animation takes over, and your character performs the stunt flawlessly, regardless of your timing or control. It’s as if the game is handing you victory on a silver platter, and honestly, it feels lazy. The lack of any real consequence makes the stunts feel hollow like they’re happening just to check a box rather than to offer any real satisfaction.
What Slopecrashers misses is the same thing that makes extreme sports so compelling in real life: the challenge. The heart-pounding anticipation of whether you’ll stick that landing or wipe it out in spectacular fashion.
Here, there’s no excitement, no risk, just a set of predetermined animations that leave you with little more than a sense of emptiness.
No Shame in Failing
Slopecrashers is a game where failure isn’t even an option, mainly because nothing is interesting enough to even fail at. So yeah, you’ll get your stunts, you’ll race your penguin or snow rabbit or whatever they’re calling it this week… but it’s all so devoid of risk and excitement.
In life, time is limited and one can only spend so much time playing a certain game. For that, you must create something worth the time. I am all for testing new ideas but this is not a new idea. This a fake promise followed by a game so lazy, one could create it over the weekend.
In conclusion? You’ll probably get more adrenaline from watching an ice cube melt.
Ready for a random observation, courtesy of Sniper Elite: Resistance? Sniping is simultaneously stealthy and un-stealthy. You need to get in to the right place, at the right time, with no one seeing you (or recognising you if they do), and make sure you have a similar exit strategy. But at the same time you’re carrying a big explosion in a long tube. When you pull the trigger, you’re essentially blowing into a giant vuvuzela and holding up a sign with ‘I Am Here’ written on it.
I thought about this as bullets were pinging into the metal of the thin barrier I was hiding behind. Being one of the least stealthiest humans that has ever lived, my sniping plans were often sub-par. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed it. When the stars align and you pull off a perfect shot, then Sniper Elite: Resistance really shines, and it works hard to recreate that moment. When you keep your enemies at a distance, things are great. Cracks only start appearing when we get up close.
Long Distance Bullet Delivery
Sniper Elite: Resistance winds the clock back to 1944, where Europe has picked itself back up off the mat and is ready to deliver a haymaker in the form of D-Day. Unfortunately, the French resistance has picked up some chatter that the Nazis are developing a superweapon. In response, the Brits send in a special operative to deal with it – SOE agent Harry Hawker. A man with the face of a twenty year-old and the voice of a sixty year-old. To be brutally honest, I strongly recommend not coming to Sniper Elite: Resistance for the plot. Harry is a dull non-entity, strung along by the nose from one set-piece to another.
Instead, you should come here for the long guns that make loud noises. Sniping requires you to spot targets through your binoculars, then dial in your scope to distance. After accounting for the weather, you line your crosshair up on either their head or their crotch. If you aim it right, you’re greeted with a gory X-ray scene of your bullet spearing through their skull and/or plums. These X-ray shots do get old, but lining up the perfect shot that flies through the eye-socket of a rival sniper is a wonderful feeling. I recommend flicking the sniping difficulty up, though, otherwise holding your breath just shows you where you’re going to hit.
The sniping excels when the maps open up, and Sniper Elite: Resistance seems to understand that. The best levels are ones with big sprawling fields or other wide areas, where you can hike up a lookout tower and absolutely clear up. If you time shots with loud noises, like thunder or a nearby dogfight, then you’re masked. So with a bit of patience, I could clear half the map with well-placed shots. The maps aren’t empty, though. There are a lot of side missions that need to be manually discovered, along with a kill challenge in each mission. If you fancy slow playing it, you can spend quite a bit of time on each one. I was never bored, that’s for sure.
Sniper No Sniping
Unfortunately, I found it a lot less entertaining when the levels shrank and a lot of that is down to the AI. It’s not the sharpest tool in the shed, bless it. Not just because they’re unable to notice a muzzle flash that’s about ten feet from them. They’re terrible at searching, and frequently unloaded entire magazines at the spot I was about five minutes ago. They search for a long time, too, so I’d just park my arse behind a wall and twiddle my thumbs. They also react to their helmet being shot off by standing there, gawping, until the second bullet bursts through their cranium.
The net result is that that being spotted doesn’t feel harrowing. Partly because the AI won’t put up much challenge, but also because Hawker feels overpowered. One of the first pistols we unlock is silenced and can kill Nazis in one headshot, for instance. But we can also carry multiple grenades, mines and gosh darned TNT, along with a rifle and SMG. Even when I messed up, I managed to clear the map because they could only take one shot, and I could tank several magazines. The shooting isn’t really enjoyable enough to prop things up, so being spotted was more of an annoyance.
Still, once you get out of the structured campaign format, there are other modes that are enjoyable. Propaganda missions, for instance, pop you into time-based scenarios with limited gear and a defined playstyle. So you need to stealth kill as many Nazis as possible, for instance, or (my favourite) counter-snipe a horde of elite snipers. There’s also survival, which was fun enough, but with no one online for multiplayer I was soon minced by a mounted machine gun. Lastly, you can invade other people’s games as a rival sniper. I got invaded precisely once, where I was shot to death without knowing what was happening. I responded by grumpily folding my arms and turning it off. Nice idea, though.
Sniper Elite: Resistance – Fun At A Distance
All this lead to a realisation in the penultimate mission: my favourite part of Sniper Elite: Resistance was the beginning of the campaign missions. I’d get to a safe place and whip out my binoculars. Once I’d tagged enough Nazis, I’d head to a good sniping spot. Then I’d either wait for environmental noise, or kick a generator, and make shot after shot. In other words, when Sniper Elite: Resistance focused on the sniping, everything was golden. Every time it forced me down into a cramped, underground lab I was having less fun.
Still, my experience was overall positive. Crawling over the campaign levels, checking off missions and sniping targets, was good fun. I think I’ll probably return once there are enough people to fill out the survival mode. While getting up close and personal was a bit frustrating thanks to wonky AI, the Sniper Elite series remains the best way to watch a lump of metal obliterate a Nazi’s future fatherhood potential.
Why is Pennsylvania such an iconic setting in movies and games? This is particularly true for the horror genre, where its eerie forests, abandoned towns, and rich folklore provide the perfect backdrop for chilling stories.
A recent study from CableTV.com even revealed that Pennsylvania leads the US in horror movie death tolls!
From George A. Romero’s groundbreaking zombie films to video games that draw upon its haunting landscapes, Pennsylvania has earned its place as a cultural icon in storytelling.
Beyond horror, the state’s historical significance and diverse geography inspire creators to craft narratives that are grounded in realism yet brimming with intrigue.
In this article, we explore why the Keystone State is such a compelling setting and look at some of the most popular movies and games to come out of it.
Why does Pennsylvania inspire so many great games & movies?
Some say Pennsylvania’s allure lies in its rich tapestry of locations and stories. With so many dense forests, isolated towns and abandoned industrial sites, its atmosphere is perfect for horror and mystery genres.
This unique combination has served as the foundation for countless iconic works. George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead (1968), filmed in rural Pennsylvania, is a perfect example, using the state’s quiet countryside to create a sense of isolation and dread that would come to characterize the zombie sub-genre.
Pennsylvania’s industrial history has inspired gritty, emotionally charged dramas in other genres, too. The steel mills of Pittsburgh, for instance, provided the backdrop for The Deer Hunter (1978), a film that explores themes of community, loss, and resilience in a working-class setting.
The state’s folklore and eerie geography also play a key role in its appeal. The Pocono Mountains, with their dense woods and misty landscapes, evoke feelings of mystery and suspense, making them an ideal setting for horror games like Until Dawn.
Additionally, the abandoned mining towns scattered across Pennsylvania have inspired fictional worlds such as Silent Hill, where the remnants of once-thriving communities create a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic.
Pennsylvania has played a starring role in numerous iconic films, particularly in the horror and thriller genres. Here are a few famous examples:
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
This award-winning thriller was filmed in Pennsylvania, showcasing Pittsburgh and several smaller towns, whose distinct atmospheres contributed to the film’s eerie tone. Some scenes were filmed in an abandoned factory, of which there are many in the state, adding an extra layer of bleakness.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
George A. Romero’s groundbreaking zombie film was set and filmed in rural Pennsylvania. As the birthplace of the zombie sub-genre, it cemented the state’s legacy in horror cinema.
Dawn of the Dead (1978)
Another Romero classic, this film’s setting in Monroeville Mall near Pittsburgh created an iconic backdrop for the zombie apocalypse. The mall itself became an iconic symbol of consumer culture, adding a satirical layer to the zombie apocalypse narrative and cementing the film’s place in cinematic history.
The Deer Hunter (1978)
Reflecting Pennsylvania’s industrial roots, the steel mill scenes were filmed on location, giving the movie a gritty and authentic feel.
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009)
Filmed at Bethlehem Steel Works, this action-packed blockbuster highlighted the state’s industrial decay and rich history. This setting emphasized the themes of power and decay, providing a striking visual backdrop that connected the film’s narrative to the state’s storied history.
The Road (2009)
This post-apocalyptic drama used Pennsylvania’s bleak landscapes to underscore the movie’s desolation and struggle for survival.
Pennsylvania’s influence extends into gaming too, where its landscapes and history inspire immersive experiences.
Fallout 3
While much of Fallout 3 is set in Washington, D.C., parts of the game extend into areas inspired by Pennsylvania’s geography and industrial past. The game’s post-apocalyptic landscape captures the essence of the Rust Belt, with its abandoned factories and desolate towns reflecting Pennsylvania’s industrial decline.
Left 4 Dead
This iconic zombie survival game features a campaign, Blood Harvest, set in Pennsylvania. The game uses the state’s rural areas, dense forests, and remote farmlands to create an atmosphere of isolation and terror, perfectly aligning with Pennsylvania’s reputation as the birthplace of the modern zombie genre.
Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse
This quirky and humorous zombie game is set in a fictionalized 1950s-style city in Pennsylvania. The game’s retro-futuristic setting combines the charm of mid-century Americana with the eerie vibe of a zombie outbreak, paying homage to the state’s legacy as the home of George A. Romero’s zombie films.
Entertainment in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s entertainment offerings aren’t limited to movies and games. The state boasts a vibrant casino scene that attracts gaming enthusiasts from far and wide. From iconic venues like Parx Casino in Bensalem to the Mohegan Sun Pocono, there’s no shortage of opportunities to test your luck. These establishments feature everything from table games to the latest slot machines, providing an exciting mix of traditional and modern gaming options.
For those who prefer the convenience of online gaming, casino games in Pennsylvania are widely accessible through licensed platforms. These platforms offer a variety of options, from classic card games to immersive slot games, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Pennsylvania’s robust gaming industry has become a key part of its entertainment landscape, blending the thrill of casinos with the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Wrap up
From classic horror films to atmospheric video games, Pennsylvania’s unique blend of history, geography, and culture makes it an unmatched source of inspiration.
Whether exploring its industrial past or delving into its eerie landscapes, creators continue to draw from the Keystone State to craft unforgettable stories and experiences.
For fans of gaming, Pennsylvania’s casino scene adds another dimension to its appeal, making it a destination worth exploring for all kinds of entertainment.
Aidan in Danger is a simple platforming retro experience. It reuses assets throughout and this caused me to chuckle. Though this wasn’t problematic, it made things too easy and the gameplay was repetitive. However, some genuinely good moments hooked me.
Brainium Games developed and published this old-school affair. Additionally, it is a single-player 2D experience that is gloriously pixelated. Though this won’t impress modern gamers, fans of 8-bit titles will love the trip down memory lane.
Aidan in Danger tells a crazy tale.
You are Aidan, an elf who has sworn to protect Drakor. He is the last dragon on Earth and has a target on his back. Consequently, you must keep your eyes peeled to complete your task. Unfortunately, interdimensional beings wish to ruin your day. As such, you must undertake a journey like no other.
As the game evolves, you will experience a host of new problems and obstacles to overcome. There are some precision moments and plenty of clichéd and well-trodden mechanics. Yet, this matters not. Each short, sharp level is a blast to work through, and dying and failing are par for the course.
Classic ideas.
Aidan in Danger lacks originality. The spikes, chasms, blades, and monsters all feel familiar. Moreover, overcoming each obstacle takes little skill or ability. As long as you’re patient, you’ll move from beginning to end with little trouble.
Luckily, things do become more challenging. Monsters appear from nowhere and the linear stage design opens up. Additionally, there were occasionally time-reliant tasks that added danger and panic to proceedings. This was where Aidan in Danger excels. Had the developer expanded this idea, the gameplay would have been improved.
Aidan in Danger is brilliantly pixelated.
I enjoyed the level design even though it was rudimentary. Exploring each dungeon was fun and grabbing the coins and diamonds kept me focused. Furthermore, the backdrops varied as you progressed. This approach prevents the action from becoming mundane. What’s more, as you explore new worlds, you see different enemies to mix things up.
The audio is basic but suitable. The music is repetitive and dated and sounds like something from the 90s. Yet, I loved this classic soundscape and the shrill sound effects.
Clumsy controls.
Aidan in Danger is easy to play, but the controls let it down. They are occasionally clunky and slow. This was disappointing as it caused more issues than necessary. Had this been tightened up, it would have been a more enjoyable platform experience.
There are plenty of levels to work through. Moreover, each has 3 diamonds to collect. This creates some replay value and longevity. However, had the developer incorporated a speedrun mode or time trial, this would have kept me coming back for more.
Aidan in Danger is a fine indie game.
This won’t blow you away. Aidan in Danger lacks a final polish, and that was disappointing. Though I enjoyed the casual gameplay and the fun graphics, it lacks originality. This was unfortunate, but it is a fine indie game regardless. Accordingly, I like it and recommend buying it here! Can you help Aidan to complete his task? Study each level, avoid the obstacles, and stay alive.
The world of digital marketing has always been fast-paced and innovative. The race to keep up with the latest trends and strategies is often at the top of the priority list for small businesses, and AI is no exception to this. If there is a simpler, more streamlined and cost effective way to make a sincere connection with your audience, it needs to be explored. The advancements of artificial intelligence are extremely impressive, and it’s set to change the digital landscape both now and in the future. Whether you’re hoping to optimize your customer interactions, find more information from valuable data, or enhance satisfaction rates, AI can certainly help with this. With this in mind, here are some of the key things you should know about AI, marketing and the future of the digital space for businesses.
The Key Advantages of AI in Marketing
The main benefit of AI and marketing is the ability to create completely bespoke services and experiences for your clients. Using data analytics, AI is able to decipher trends, preferences, patterns and unique behaviors for individuals. This is such a powerful tool when it comes to GTM AI data it has completely changed how businesses engage with online buyers and how they approach sales. A solid and reliable AI-ready data foundation is paramount, otherwise mistakes will be made. It’s worth mentioning that high quality AI data can also improve customer loyalty and increase conversion rates too. When a company has access to these insights it can help businesses make data-driven decisions, so that money is spent in the right places.
The Power of Chatbots
Chatbots have proven to be an extremely powerful tool when it comes to providing timely and efficient customer support. AI facilitated virtual assistants can answer frequently asked questions quickly and efficiently, whilst offering bespoke recommendations for other products. Having this tool on your website or landing page can even help you to upsell to customers who are ready to checkout. The biggest advantage of chatbots is that they’re available all day everyday, so your customers can get help as soon as they need it. This AI feature is a surefire way to improve customer satisfaction, and it allows human customer service team members to have more time to deal with more complicated queries.
AI and Content Creation
If you were to ask any small business owner what their main gripe was about running a company and keeping digital marketing on trend, it would be content creation. It’s time consuming and can take a lot of manual effort to come up with ideas and execute them effectively. AI can also create sophisticated written content which is very useful for businesses looking to produce blog posts, newsletters and informative articles on a regular basis.
AI Can Anticipate Customer Movements
As mentioned earlier, AI gives you the power to predict customer movements and behaviors which can be invaluable when it comes to spotting trends and targeting with the right ads. AI can also look ahead and predict potential outcomes for the future, so that every opportunity can be seized at the relevant moment.
AI Challenges to Consider
As with any newfound phenomenon, there will always be risks to face and challenges to overcome. AI poses its own unique risks due to the nature of the beast, some of which could be fairly costly and time consuming for business owners to implement. Data quality and privacy can also be a factor to consider, especially with tighter GDPR regulations. This is why it’s important for businesses to invest in solid data management software and compliance practices in order to protect customer data when it’s generated by AI.
AI also needs to seamlessly integrate into existing systems and current processes, some of which may not always be designed to work with these innovative technologies. However, with careful budgeting, proper training and excellent compliance measures, it should be possible to seamlessly integrate into your business and digital marketing strategies over time.
Embracing AI and Marketing In The Future
In the future, AI certainly has a strong place in the digital marketing world; it’s certainly not a fleeting trend that is going anywhere, any time soon. In fact, if you want your business to keep up with competitors and stay relevant it’s almost vital to try out AI in some capacity so that you can start to reap the rewards. There are numerous benefits to consider, which may help you to go above and beyond your marketing goals. Now is the ideal time to test out some AI strategies, and see how lucrative they could be for your business.
Here is our review of the TOZO HT2 Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones.
Presenting the TOZO HT2 Headphones: Immerse yourself in an extraordinary audio adventure with pristine sound quality in any environment. Seamlessly stay connected with crystal-clear calls every time. The 40mm Dynamic Driver Units provide an immersive sound experience, complemented by Hi-Res Audio Certification for audio quality that exceeds expectations.
Specifications
What’s in the box?
The box contains the TOZO HT2 Wireless Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones, 3.5mm analog audio cable, Charging Cable and a Quick Guide and User Manual.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The HT2 headphones are fairly lightweight and feel very comfortable to wear even for extended periods of time. There is a customisable head beam making it very easy to adjust for any head shape or size. The ear pads are soft and they prevent a build up of moisture if used for extended periods.
When fully charged the headphones can give you up to 60 hours of usage (without ANC) and around 40 hours with ANC. Charging them is simply a case of connecting the supplied USB-C cable for fast charging.
Connecting the headphones to your chosen source is very easy – you can either use Bluetooth (the HT2 supports Bluetooth 5.3) or you can use the supplied 3.5mm cable.
The headphones support both Hi-Res Audio and OrigX Acoustic 2.0 technology, and the sound quality is fantastic, with music coming through very clearly no matter what type of music you are listening to. The ANC works really well and enables you to focus on what you want to listen to rather than all the noises around you.
There are multiple noise cancelling modes to choose from and selecting one is as simple as pressing the NC button on the side of the headphones – easy!
There are other controls on the side too, including volume controls and also controls for taking voice calls.
You can also use the TOZO 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 TOZO HT2 Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are available now priced around £58.99 and are available in a variety of different colours.
As the web experience got more powerful, web-based browser games became incredibly popular thanks to the innovations of Adobe Flash. While Flash is no longer used, browser games are still going strong – even in the age of the smartphone where gaming has become more accessible than ever.
In this article, you’ll learn about five of the best browser games you can play today!
In many ways, Agar.io typifies the latest wave of browser games – addictive, fast, and multiplayer. The premise is simple: the player operates a small blob and must go about the map consuming smaller blobs to get bigger, all while avoiding the predatory larger blobs trying to consume them.
As is the case with many of the best browser games, it’s a simple, yet ingenious concept. There’s a lot of strategy to figure out as you attempt to reach the top of the leaderboard, and it’s a great choice whether you’re looking for some quick fun or to compete at a high level.
2. Krunker.io
Back in the days of Flash, a 3D first-person shooter (FPS) game running through a browser was practically unheard of, but Krunker.io is a testament to how far the genre has come.
The game pits the player against others through a wide variety of different modes and maps with a ton of cool weapons to choose from. The weapon you choose will decide the strategy you take: perhaps you’ll become a sniper, picking off foes from a distance, or maybe your fast reflexes mean you’d be best fighting head-on.
3. Red Ball Games
Red Ball Games provides a series of unique challenges for kids and adults alike, combining many different tropes to offer a unique browser-game experience. Whether you’re into puzzles, action, or adventure, this series of games will undoubtedly have something for you.
They’re great both as something to kill a bit of time or for sinking a full hour into, so if you’re in search of a series with great versatility, be sure to give these games a try.
4. Forge of Empires
If you’re looking for something a little deeper and with a focus on traditional strategy, Forge of Empires may well be your ideal browser-based game. Similarly to classic titles like Rise of Nations and Age of Empires, the game has you evolving your own civilization through the ages, engaging in turn-based combat, researching technology, and building vast cities.
When you have plenty of time to spare, you won’t regret spending it playing Forge of Empires if you’re a strategy fan!
5. Little Alchemy 2
Little Alchemy 2 perfectly blends creativity and puzzle-solving into one unique package. The idea is to combine different scientific elements using the mouse to create new ones: you’ll have great fun discovering the dozens of different possibilities, using logic to work out each combination and make progress.
Little Alchemy 2 is all about the intrinsic joy of discovery, so if you have a few minutes spare, open up a new tab in your browser and give it a shot.
