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The latest scene and console emulation and hacking news alongside other gaming news, competitions, give-aways, video game and gaming hardware reviews and much more!
 
 

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Editorial  Cassette Beasts is more than just indie Pokemon

Towards the tail end of August Nintendo made four games available to Switch Online subscribers for a week as a part of their ongoing Game Trials. Three of these games I had ample experience with; Tetris Effect I've played on PS4 and on the Quest 2, PowerWash Simulator I've recently been working through on the Quest 2, and Enter the Gungeon has been sitting in my Steam library for longer than I can remember. The last game was something of an anomaly for me, sitting comfortably on that list of things I really should look at at some point. That week came and went and I didn't pick up my Switch at all, but a friend of mine did. And since then there has been a single game he would not stop talking about: Cassette Beasts, the fourth of the...
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Editorial  Dawn of Defiance - Early Access Impressions

There are many survival crafting games available that can have you spend countless hours in, so Dawn of Defiance has big shoes to fill if it wants to capture your attention. The creator and publisher, Traega Entertainment, is a relatively new game development studio, but their team consists of veteran developers from companies like Blizzard, EA, Bungie, and more. They have only one other game under their belt, Aegis Descent, which has mixed reviews on Steam. However, this new survival game, Dawn of Defiance, has received a positive reception in its early access debut. As you begin your journey in Dawn of Defiance, you'll find that the game does not hold your hand. There is no tutorial or guide to ease you into the gameplay. I was...
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Editorial  The Inside Story Behind Grand Theft Auto III's Japanese Release

When Grand Theft Auto III was originally released in 2001 across North America and Europe, it became an instant success, essentially changing the game industry in those territories overnight. So it's no surprise, then, that Rockstar Games wanted to see the title come to other parts of the world too, with both Take-Two and its newly-famous subsidiary specifically setting their sights on the Japanese market as their next area of conquest. In the past, Grand Theft Auto 1 and Grand Theft Auto 2 had been released in the region under two smaller publishers named Syscom Entertainment and Zoo Corporation, but for the third game in the series, Rockstar and Take-Two felt they needed to aim a little higher, singling out the Resident Evil...
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Editorial  Brilliant Labs' Frame, Open-Source AI Glasses, Impressions

Big tech wants you to know that the future of computing is wearable and on your face. They don't know the exact shape or form it will take but the "next" computing device they are chasing is a pair of smart glasses of sorts. Nevermind the Google Glass hiccup or Meta's billions in losses as it vehemently pushes for the smart glasses of the future to access the metaverse or whatever new buzzword it wants to name itself after. Even Apple has launched the pricey Vision Pro to state its commitment in this sphere and has reportedly a more affordable variant in the works. The message they are sending is clear: the future - or the future they want - involves smart glasses, no matter the cost. With such big names competing in the smart glasses...
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Editorial  A Year With A Flip Phone - Z Flip 5

Samsung just revealed its new lineup of folding phones, so I thought what better time to do a write-up on their current generation of the Z Flip, which I have been daily driving for almost a full year (10 months). My experience was not what I expected, and I think this will be a good read if you are considering getting the new Z Flip 6. I bought the Flip 5 because I wanted something different after using a slab phone for years. A flip phone in 2024 offers more than just the novelty of snapping it closed when you want to hang up on someone. The clamshell form factor, when closed, feels much better in your pocket and leaves more space for other items. The cover screen is a great way to keep you less distracted in a world where every app...
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Editorial  Octopath Traveler Bundle Impressions

Last week, Square Enix made the Octopath Traveler series available across all current-gen platforms. The first and second game were made available to purchase separately, or as a bundle, on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5 and PC. We previously reviewed both games, more specifically Octopath Traveler on the Switch and Octopath Traveler II on PC, and I'd encourage you to take a look at both for in-depth insights. This article will go over the features of the Bundle. By purchasing the £60/€75 digital bundle, you will be able to download each game separately, which otherwise cost £50/€60 each. I found this approach to the bundle, instead of a bigger game that includes both games, to be better as it gives you the...
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Editorial  POCO F6 Series & POCO Pad: Hands-On Impressions & Interview

This week, POCO, the gaming-oriented and global smartphone branch of Xiaomi, launched its F6 smartphone series. This includes the POCO F6 and the POCO F6 Pro flagship models. In addition, the company launched its first-ever Android tablet, the POCO Pad. True to the company's roots, these new products pack decent specs at attractive prices. The POCO F6 starts at $379 (8+256GB model), the POCO F6 Pro starts at $449 (12+256GB model) and the POCO Pad starts at $329 (8+256GB). Currently, all of these products are eligible for an early bird discount of $50. I've had the opportunity to attend the launch and represent Jesus. During the event, I've had access to the new devices, tried their standout features and also interviewed Angus Ng, head...
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Editorial  The Borders of Open Source Code: The Downsides, Legalities and Alternatives for Git repositories

Developers worldwide from all kinds of project backgrounds, ranging from software to hardware, have gone through a history of different ways to manage their resources and source codes for their projects, be it operating systems, drivers, office and industry applications, media software, and even entire videogames and emulators. For those around in the coding world decades ago, developers relied on things like SVN (Subversion), CVS (Concurrent Versions System) for source code versioning control, and places like Google Code (which has been defunct since 2016) to store their projects. The now-defunct Google Code service With the passing of time, and also the changes in the technological landscape, Git-based project hosts became the...
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Editorial  XREAL Hub Impressions

Consumer augmented reality (AR) specialist XREAL has recently released a new accessory for its AR glasses, the XREAL Hub. This $40 add-on is a simple device that addresses a common problem in today's tech world: battery life. XREAL's and most consumer AR glasses are lightweight and able to sport a sleek, relatively inconspicuous look as they do not have any battery but are powered by the source device. As these glasses essentially function as portable external monitors, they can be taxing on the battery life of the source device. Given that they plug into that device's USB-C port, they prevent the user from charging it for extended use. There have been options to address this such as RayNeo's JoyDock but the latter can be pricey and...
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Editorial  Almost everything I hoped it would be - a week with the 2024 Zenbook Duo

So let's cut right to the chase: I really enjoy my multi-screened tech. Owning a Surface Duo, LG Wing, Zephyrus Duo, and even such an oddity as Crelander's Celeron-powered X15, it should come as no surprise to learn 2024's new Zenbook Duo was on my radar. After giving it a quick spin at ASUS' pre-CES event late last year I found myself torn; this isn't the only notable dual-screened device of 2024 after all, with AYANEO's Flip DS just on the horizon too. After some back and forth though my mind was made up, a decently portable laptop with two full screens was clearly the productivity boon I'd been craving (even if I'm still very tempted by the Flip DS!). Two months and £2000 later it's made its way to my door, and while I love it, it's...
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Editorial  AYANEO KUN & SLIDE Accessories Impressions

While expanding its catalogue of handheld gaming devices, AYANEO is also expanding its ecosystem of accessories for its devices. The company has provided some of these to check out, some specifically for the KUN and SLIDE, so let's take a closer look! AYANEO Storage Bag Considering the unorthodox form factor of AYANEO's devices, protective carry cases for the handhelds aren't that easily found. Given their portability and premium price tag, you'll likely want such an accessory to safely carry the device around. Luckily, AYANEO has dedicated hard carry cases for practically every device. For the AYANEO KUN, the company has a $32.90 black storage bag and a $ 38.90 one bearing a unique graphic. The former model was provided and bears a...
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Editorial  Making Pokemon Emerald my own one tweak at a time

In the month of March I had such lofty ideals, as I often do. I said to myself "I really want to beat Skyrim", and I really did want to. I got the game downloaded, and as I sat through Brynjolf's iconic monologue in the ever-romantic horse-drawn carriage ride, a further intrusive thought emerged. I don't know where it came from, and I don't know why it appeared as I watched a man try to escape captivity and shortly thereafter get shot by an Imperial arrow. I wanted to make a Pokemon Emerald ROM hack. In that moment I closed the game and jumped onto Google, so instead of my usual jaunt of talking about old games and discovering a few new gems for my collection, I wanted to instead take some time to talk about my first real dive into the...
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Editorial  'God of War' PC Version Impressions

Santa Monica Studio's God of War first launched on the PS4 back in 2018 and on PC for the first time in 2022. Last week, the DRM-free version debuted on GOG and having not played it before myself, I jumped at the opportunity this time around. For those unfamiliar with the title, here's a quick refresher. Despite a confusing naming convention, God of War is the 8th instalment in the God of War series and is the sequel to 2010's God of War III. It puts players back in control over the titular God of war, Kratos, but this time accompanied by his son Atreus. This father-son duo ventures across the realm of Midgard to fulfil Atreus' late mother's wish which unfolds into an eventful journey. While following the canonical story, God...
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Editorial  The Paradox of Open-World Games: Narrative Contradiction and Gameplay Freedom

Open-world games have revolutionized the gaming industry. They offer a unique blend of expansive environments and the freedom to explore. However, their narrative design often contradicts their gameplay features. This article delves into the paradox of open-world games and how developers are working to bridge the gap. 1. Introduction The rise of open-world games has changed the scope and nature of gaming. These games offer players an expansive universe to explore at will, a stark contrast to the linear gameplay of traditional games. Yet, this freedom often comes at a cost; the expansive nature of open-world games often leads to a disconnect between the narrative and gameplay. 2. The Concept of Open-World Games Open-world games, also...
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Editorial  Masks, Mazes, and Marksmen - Chad's February of gaming

February has been a busy gaming month for me, in no small part due to me actually picking up a few to review for the first time since November. It's been pretty refreshing to get back into it and you should definitely keep an eye on the review section the coming days if you happen to have an interest in roguelike games in particular. Having said that, the games I've been playing for review were all towards the second half of the month, so there's still a good bit to talk about! The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D Randomiser (3DS) At the centre stage of my February was the realisation that a brand new randomiser for one of my favourite games had recently released. Based on the extraordinary work of the Ocarina of Time 3D randomiser...
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Editorial  NeoGAF's Sexual Misconduct Allegations and Ban on Political Discussions

NeoGAF, once hailed as a prominent gaming forum known for its vibrant discussions and community engagement, faced a significant upheaval when sexual misconduct allegations surfaced against its owner. The scandal reverberated throughout the gaming community, raising questions about accountability and transparency. In response to the controversy, NeoGAF implemented a ban on political discussions, sparking debates about the freedom of expression within online gaming forums. In this article, we delve into the events surrounding NeoGAF's sexual misconduct allegations and the subsequent ban on political discussions, examining the impact on the platform's community and exploring the broader implications for online gaming spaces. The Sexual...
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Editorial  The Flourishing of Drag Culture in Video Games

In recent years, the world of video games has evolved far beyond mere entertainment. It has become a diverse and inclusive space that reflects the complexities and richness of real-life cultures and communities. One such culture that has found its way into the virtual realm with vibrant allure is drag culture. With its emphasis on self-expression, creativity, and breaking societal norms, drag culture has not only found a place in video games but has thrived, empowering players to embrace their unique identities and blur the lines of gender representation. In this article, we delve into the burgeoning world of drag culture in video games and celebrate its positive impact on players and gaming communities. Embracing Diversity and...
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Editorial  Loot Boxes and Microtransactions: Ethical Dilemmas in Modern Gaming

In recent years, the gaming industry has undergone a significant transformation, not only in terms of technological advancements but also in its monetization strategies. Loot boxes and microtransactions have become ubiquitous features in many games, raising important ethical questions that warrant thoughtful consideration. As players, developers, and regulators grapple with the implications of these in-game purchases, it's essential to examine the ethical issues surrounding loot boxes and microtransactions in gaming. Predatory Practices and Gambling Concerns Perhaps the most contentious ethical issue tied to loot boxes and microtransactions is their resemblance to gambling. Loot boxes, in particular, offer players randomized virtual...
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Editorial  How Have Smartphones Revolutionised the Gaming World

Smartphones have impacted our lives in many ways. From instant messaging and video calls to navigation and gaming, it's no secret that the smartphone has changed the way we view the world. With the rise of smartphones, mobile gaming has become one of the most popular areas of the gaming industry. The ever-changing technology can keep up with the rapid evolvements of the gaming world, and it doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon. In this article, we'll be discussing how smartphones have disrupted the gaming world in the best way possible, with gaming made more accessible and portable than ever before. Variety You'll find so many of your favourite games available to play on mobile. Smartphones cater to the taste of almost...
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Editorial  'Eastward: Octopia' Impressions

Launched earlier this week is Eastward: Octopia, a paid DLC for the pixel art RPG Eastward which launched in 2021. This charming indie title stands out with its retro-styled, yet detailed environment and original universe. Since its launch, the game has received some much-needed updates such as the option to fast travel and chapter selection that makes it worth (re)visiting. But if you'd prefer exploring the world of Eastward without the stress of combat and the looming miasma threat, then this DLC might be for you. Eastward: Octopia is a farming simulator set in a parallel world to the main game where there is no threat of the miasma or monsters. We are reunited with John and Sam, who have become the new owners of a farm close to the...
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