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Editor’s note: This post is part of our weekly In the NVIDIA Studio series, which celebrates featured artists, offers creative tips and tricks, and demonstrates how NVIDIA Studio technology improves creative workflows. We’re also deep diving on new GeForce RTX 40 Series GPU features, technologies and resources, and how they dramatically accelerate content creation. Amir Anbarestani, an accomplished 3D artist who goes by the moniker Kingsletter, had a “shell of a good time” creating his Space Turtle scene this week In the NVIDIA Studio. Kingsletter has always harbored a fascination with 3D art, he said. As a child, he often enjoyed exploring and crafting within immersive environments. Whether it was playing with plasticine — putty-like modeling material — or creating pencil drawings, his innate inclination for self-expression always found resonance within the expansive domain of 3D. Space Turtle with MSI creator Z17HX courtesy of @AustraliaMSI & @NVIDIAStudio Unleash your creativity with NVIDIA Studio drivers! Get yours at: https://t.co/idJlWgb8UX pic.twitter.com/Ff6Y6RfQp4 — King's Letter (@TheKingsletter) April 28, 2023 Below, he shares his inspiration and creative process using ZBrush, Adobe Substance 3D Painter and Blender. An NVIDIA DLSS 3 plug-in is now available in Unreal Engine 5, offering select benefits including AI upscaling for high frame rates, super resolution and more for GeForce RTX 40 Series owners. And 3D creative app Marvelous Designer launches Into the Omniverse its NVIDIA Omniverse Connector this month. Learn how talented artists are using the Connector, along with the Universal Scene Description (“OpenUSD”) framework, to elevate their creative workflows. NVIDIA DLSS 3 Plug-In Is Unreal — Engine 5 NVIDIA Studio released a DLSS 3 plug-in compatible with Unreal Engine 5. The Play in Editor tool is useful for game developers to quickly review gameplay in a level while editing — and DLSS 3 AI upscaling will unlock significantly higher frame rates on GeForce RTX 40 Series GPUs for even smoother previewing. NVIDIA DLSS 3 plug-in unlocks incredible visual details with DLSS 3 in Unreal Engine 5. Plus, select Unreal Engine viewports offer DLSS 2 Super Resolution and upscaling benefits in typical content-creation workflows like modeling, lighting, animation and more. Download DLSS 3 for Unreal Engine 5.2, available now. Learn more about NVIDIA technologies supported by Unreal Engine 5. Turtle Recall The process began with sketching and initial sculpting in the ZBrush tool, where the concept of a floating turtle in space took shape and evolved into a dynamic shot of the creature soaring toward the camera. “It’s remarkable how something as simple as shaping an idea’s basic form can be so immensely gratifying,” said Kingsletter on the blockout phase. “There’s a unique joy in starting with a blank canvas and gradually bringing the essence of a concept to life.” Sketching and initial sculpting in ZBrush. After finalizing the model in ZBrush, Kingsletter used ZRemesher to retopologize it, or generate a low-poly version suitable for the intended scene. This is useful for removing artifacts and other mesh issues before animation and rigging. “NVIDIA graphics cards are industry leading in the creative community. I don’t think I know anyone that uses other GPUs.” — Kingsletter The RIZOMUV UV mapping 3D software was then deployed for unwrapping the model, the process of opening a mesh to make a 2D texture that covers a 3D object. This is effective for adding textures to objects with precision, a common need for professional artists. Next, Kingsletter applied surface details, from subtle dusting to extreme wear and tear, with materials mimicking real-world behaviors such as sheen, subsurface scattering and more in Adobe Substance 3D Painter. RTX-accelerated light and ambient occlusion enabled fully baked models in mere seconds. Textures added and baked rapidly in Adobe Substance 3D Painter. Kingsletter then moved to Blender to animate the scene, setting up simple rigs and curves to bring the turtle’s flapping limbs and flight to life. Harnessing the potential of his MSI Creator Z17 HX Studio A13V NVIDIA Studio laptop from MSI with GeForce RTX 4070 graphics turtle-ly exceeded the artist’s lofty expectations. The MSI Creator Z17 HX Studio laptop with GeForce RTX 4070 graphics. “As a digital creative professional, I always strive to work with the best creative tools available,” Kingsletter said. “Choosing the MSI Creator laptop allowed me to exceed my creative professional needs and indulge in my passionate gaming hobby.” He enriched the cosmic environment using Blender’s particle system, which scattered random debris, asteroids and a small, rotating planet throughout the outer-space scene. AI-powered RTX-accelerated OptiX ray tracing in the viewport unlocked buttery-smooth interactive animations in the viewport. Create magnificent worlds in Blender accelerated by GeForce RTX graphics. “Simulating smoke proved to be the most challenging aspect,” said Kingsletter about his first foray into this form of animation. “Through numerous trials and errors, I persevered until I achieved a truly satisfactory result.” Realistic smoke elevated the 3D animation. His RTX 4070 GPU facilitated smoother, more efficient rendering of the final visuals with RTX-accelerated OptiX ray tracing in Blender Cycles, ensuring the fastest final frame render. When asked what he’d advise his younger artist self, Kingsletter said, “I’d enhance my observation skills. By immersing myself in the intricacies of form and paying careful attention to the world around me, I would have laid a stronger foundation for my creative journey.” Wise words for all creators. Digital 3D artist Kingsletter. Check out Kingsletter’s beautiful 3D creations on Instagram. Follow NVIDIA Studio on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Access tutorials on the Studio YouTube channel and get updates directly in your inbox by subscribing to the Studio newsletter. View the full article

Well, I have Control Flow Guard, Data Execution Prevention, Forced Randomization for images, randomizing memory allocations, validate exception chains and heap integrity all enabled. I wound up exceptioning Arbitrary Code Guard to OFF, blocking images with low integrity as well, remote images, fonts that "aren't trusted", Code Integrity Guard, the CFG, DEP, disabling deactivation of addon-mechanisms allowing for DLL injections, Win32k calls, subprocesses, EAF, forced randomizaion, hardwarebased stack protection, IAF, memory allocation, and SimExec. You can experiment as well.

Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon have just released a new trailer for the upcoming animated film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, finally giving fans a hint at what the movie’s story is going to be about. Read more... View the full article

Well mine won't launch with the latest Modernizer either. Have this in my event log. Faulting application name: lithtech.exe, version: 1.0.0.1, time stamp: 0x3ae746d9 Faulting module name: ntdll.dll, version: 10.0.22621.1778, time stamp: 0x2451efdd Exception code: 0xc0000005 Fault offset: 0x00060998 Faulting process id: 0x0x5018 Faulting application start time: 0x0x1D992694560BA0A Faulting application path: D:\Games\NOLF\lithtech.exe Faulting module path: C:\Windows\SYSTEM32\ntdll.dll Report Id: 53e4235a-35d0-4e30-a36c-a9317f39c741 Faulting package full name: Faulting package-relative application ID:

Despite Dead Island 2’s glamorous outer shell—its sparkling, sprawling vision of L.A., filled with scattered cash and ruined mansions—what makes it compelling is making its many zombies literally spill their guts. As you may have once heard, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Read more... View the full article

Some retro gaming enthusiasts are so preoccupied with what they could build, they won’t stop to question if they should. One such diabolical maker has combined his love of retro consoles with his expertise in 3D printing and robotics to build the NESdestroyer: a repurposed NES console shell with a fully mobile,… Read more... View the full article

This year is completely stuffed with video game remakes and remasters, like the gaming world is an overgrown hermit crab stubbornly holding onto a little cone-shaped shell. While you might wish to be born again every month or so, video games aren’t afraid to rehash what they are again, and again. To make sorting… Read more... View the full article

I'm having a variety of issues getting this game running. If I use the version on this website or the revive version I can get the game to launch. However when I change to widescreen resolutions the menus get cut off with the back and exit off the bottom of the screen. This is with the plus version which both say they have a widescreen patch integrated. I remember having this problem years ago so I tried adding the modernizer patch. This fixes the menu issue and allows me widescreen which appears correct. The game will launch and looks fine, apart from the "are you sure you wish to quit" "yes" option extending outside the box. However this option means I can't launch the game subsequently, it just goes to a white screen and returns to desktop. There is a box with the message "crash detected. SE at address 0X00650E3A inside E:\Games\No One Lives Forever 2\lithtech.exe loaded at base address 0x00400000 Please check debug.log for more information. I have to change the display in the launcher to get it to launch then change the resolution in game again. I had a look through the forums and they mention changing dgvoodoo settings. However the version I downloaded from this website does not have dgvoodoo with it despite it saying it does. If I add dgvoodoo the game no longer launches with the error "Error in CGlobalClientMgr::Init() Error: 817021039:0 d3d8.dll I've tried using dgvoodoo with both the revive and the version on this website with the same result. This occurs if I use the version on this website or the one direct from dege's website. I'm a bit confused as I haven't found any references to other people having problems with the widescreen patch of either version so I'm not sure what I am doing wrong. I am running Windows 11 up to date as of 1/1/23. Nvidia Geforce RXT 4090 driver version 527.56, On Intel Core i9-10920X 3.5GhZ, 64GB Ram. Screen resolution 3840x2160 at 120hz If you have any suggestions they would be greatly appreciated.

The reason why your text is in english after enabling modernizer is that the rez file contains a updated CRES.DLL file which contains all the text in the game. New things were added to the ingame menus that required new strings to be made. You can edit the rez and remove CRES.DLL or use the multilingual mod which I believe replaces the modernizer CRES.DLL with the v1.3 one. This will result in missing text in the menus but your game will run in other languages. In most cases when running without modernizer you'll need to limit FPS down to 60 as well.

With over 15 million sold since its inception, the Razer Deathadder has certainly earned its place in the best gaming mouse hall of fame and at the top of our best gaming mouse guide. There’ve been so many iterations and variants of the legendary mouse and with the newest one, the Deathadder V3 Pro, Razer isn’t really messing with a winning formula. In fact, it has doubled down on everything that earned the Deathadder its name: excellent ergonomics and pro-level performance. Razer has taken the Deathadder to the gym, cut down the fat, shed weight, and ripped the muscles to create a lean, mean, clicking machine. The design changes are reasonably subtle but enough to offend some Deathadder diehards. Gone are the massively flared-out mouse buttons and smooth shell in favour of a slimmer, less aggressive profile that has more in common with the Viper Ultimate than previous Deathadders. It’s still very much a right-hander's mouse thanks to the slanted curve of the mouse’s hump that leans ever so comfortably into your palm. The shell has a new micro-texture coating instead of smooth plastic. It helps keep the now 63g mouse (a 25% drop from the previous Deathadder) from flying out of your hand in the heat of battle. The large PTFE skates on the bottom allow the Deathadder to glide across surfaces with the same grace as Natasha Romanov a.k.a Blackwidow. Even with my unconscionable habit of not using a mousepad, the V3 Pro performed beautifully on my desk. Razer says it will work just as well on those new-fangled glass mouse pads too, as long as they're at least 4mm thick. As a clicker aimed at the highest echelon of esports professionals, Razer has put only its finest tech inside the V3 Pro. First up, it features Razer’s fastest-ever sensor: the new Focus Pro 30K Optical sensor with a 70G acceleration and a maximum speed of 750 inches per second for 99.8% accuracy. No one will play at such a ludicrous DPI but combined with a few tricks like Asymmetric cut-off, Motion sync, and Smart tracking, you’ll never claim that the mouse is why you lost that match. For the main clickers, the Deathadder gets third-generation Razer optical mouse switches with a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it 0.2ms response time and long life of 90 million clicks. Deathadder V3 Pro Specs (Image credit: Future)Sensor: Focus Pro 30K Optical DPI: 30,000DPI Polling Rate: 1,000Hz Size: 128 x 64 x 48mm Connectivity: Razer Hyperspeed Wireless, USB Type-C Buttons: 5 Battery: 90 hrs Ergonomic: Right-handed Weight: 63g Price: $150 | £150 | AU$260 Of course, none of this matters if you have a bad connection between you and your game. Enter Razer HyperSpeed, the de facto gold standard of wireless protocols. Don’t believe me? Just ask TUV SUD PSB, a globally recognized certification institute that says HyperSpeed Wireless is three times faster than any other wireless tech. That’s probably why the V3 Pro costs so much—to help cover the cost of that certification. Regardless, to me, there’s no distinguishable difference between using the V3 Pro wireless or wired. But if you have doubts, Razer also has a special 4,000Hz Hyperpolling dongle that you can buy as an add-on, but I reckon most folks would simply use the bundled Speedflex USB cable to assuage their latency fears. The new Deathadder, like its predecessors, is light on buttons, having only five which is laughable compared to the 11 you'll find on the Basilisk V3. I like how chunky and accessible the side buttons are since I don’t have to awkwardly contort my thumb just to use them. I’m not too enamoured with the scroll wheel though. Sure it’s tactile with steps that are great for weapon switching in-game, but it gets very tedious to do lots of scrolling with this mouse. Image 1 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 3 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 4 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 5 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 6 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 7 of 8 (Image credit: Future)Image 8 of 8 (Image credit: Future) Razer’s new Hyperscroll Tilt wheel would have been welcome here. It’s little things like this and the simplicity in button configuration that works great for FPS gamers but not so much for other game genres or work. I wager more gamers are like me; we need a mouse that’s as great for Doom slaying as it is for navigating dense Excel sheets. However, if your job is playing twitch shooters, then this is just perfect. However, there’s no denying that such simplicity has its perks. Most obviously when it comes to the battery life on the Deathadder V3 Pro. Razer claims 90 hours and since unboxing it about three weeks ago, I’ve only charged it once. I’ve been exclusively using this as my primary mouse for at least 8 hours a day. So no complaints there. It charges via USB Type-and you can keep using the mouse wired as it charges too. The new Deathadder V3 Pro is a worthy successor to the family name. It’s fast, comfortable, has excellent battery life, and is very deadly in the right hands. Very few gamers can lay claims to such hands though. For most of us, the $149 being asked for the Deathadder V3 Pro is simply too much, and it feels somewhat akin to owning an F1 car and using it for grocery shopping and school runs. Still, if you fancy yourself an esports pro who needs a no-nonsense, hyper-focused slaying machine, the V3 Pro lives up to the legends of old. View the full article

3D printing is one of the coolest futuristic techs that can live in the modern home of the present day. Being able to download a digital file and with some time and patience turn that into a real world 3D object is absolutely mind blowing. We can print accessible controller mods to help more people play games, or our own fans for cooling PCs, or just a straight up Steam Deck shell. We are steps away from Star Trek's replicators in my mind's eye. Perhaps many many steps. But one of the biggest steps to jump over has to be the materials we use. Most 3D printing, especially in the home, uses some kind of plastic filament. There are a lot of great initiatives being taken to cut down on the waste but it's still a lot of plastic. You can get other filaments, made from things like wood. However, it's still often buying a new resource to make things, using a printer that requires very specific inputs, with a fair amount of waste. Ceramic printers are one of the logical next steps in integrating more materials, but are fairly uncommon compared to their filament brothers. There are difficulties with the printing process thanks to air bubble build ups, and are often fairly niche and expensive. Still they can often use a wider range of materials, and that's why the Matrix 3D printer on Kickstarter has caught my attention. The Kickstarter page proudly states "In addition to ceramic materials, Matrix can print using a wide range of viscous fluids, especially environmental and ecological restoration materials, to help you realize your creative ideas." While this sounds deeply disturbing, what it means is you can print with things you likely have around your home already. Things like paper pulp, ground up eggshells, and waste coffee grounds can be used to print new things. Cooling off (Image credit: Cooler Master, EKWB)Best AIO cooler for CPUs: All-in-one, and one for all... components. Best CPU air coolers: CPU fans that don't go brrr. The other big benefit this Matrix printer boasts is an increased capacity for builds. Often printers can be fairly limited in size, but this one can print objects up to 500 x 500 x 700mm on the largest model. They also come with up to 20L cartridge sizes, which can be swapped out mid print. This allows for some fairly large single prints, plus printing in ceramics or other malleable materials means it should be easy to piece multiple prints together, or add your own flairs by hand. Of course, being a Kickstarter means it's good to keep your wits about you when making decisions. Thankfully, the maker Cerambot has a decent track record, producing two ceramic printers on the platform in the past, and the Matrix is already more than fully backed. So hopefully this one is a safer bet than some of the vapourware around. Right now there are still some spots left on the early bird backings, which can get you a Matrix M500 for $799 USD, or 47% off the RRP. The larger options are also available at discounted prices, but are all looking fairly limited. If you're hoping to be an early adopter of this multi-printing machine, you might want to get in fast. View the full article

Boy o' boy this one really hurts to report. Miniclip is dead. The website we all knew and loved as being the ultimate home of entertainment as kids and teens is mostly gone. It's now a hollow shell of what it once was, although Miniclip, the company, lives on. The web browser game website will be remembered as the IT lesson disrupter and the foundation for a love of gaming for many. Rest in peace. The news circulated Twitter and I, like many others, rushed to see if it was true. And sadly, when you go to Miniclip today, it looks like a random gambling website more than it does a hub of joy and excitement. Only two games remain: 8 Ball Pool and Agar.io. Slim pickings compared to what it once was. Two factors probably led to this. The first is that Adobe Flash shut down at the end of 2020. Flash Player is what many games lived on back in the day and if there wasn't active support on games that could move them to HTML 5, well, they died. Tragic, but people move on and forget about small browser games they've made, I expect. (Image credit: Miniclip) The other factor would obviously be that younger audiences just have so much more media these days. It used to be rare for a kid to have a dedicated device to access the internet but now it's commonplace. They have phones, iPads, and other gaming devices which preoccupy time more succinctly than going to places like Newgrounds, Nitrome, and well, Miniclip. And Miniclip has followed its audience to these new gaming platforms. The blow is heavy. I miss those days, where everything was so simple. But Miniclip the company seems to be doing fairly well for itself in other areas. It's now mainly a mobile publishing company with offices all around the world. It even bought the publisher of the highly successful mobile game Subway Surfers in June of this year, so it's safe to say the brand is doing just fine. However I'll always know the name as that website I spent so many hours on as a kid. You can join me in pouring one out for Raft Wars tonight. View the full article

The ultimate guiding principle in the Bayou is risk versus reward, but with hordes of the undead, nightmarish bosses, and enemy hunters seeking you out, it is difficult to plan for all the unknowns. In this sense, success in Hunt: Showdown starts at the loadout screen, where picking the right equipment can give you a crucial advantage in making it out alive. Whether you're a white shirt looking for an edge or a seasoned bounty hunter eager to spice things up using the Stalker Beetle, I think these loadouts will give you the best chance in your next showdown. The New Guy (Image credit: Crytek) Primary: Winfield M1873CSecondary: Nagant M1895Traits: Iron Repeater, LeveringHunt Dollars: $327 Compact ammo gets a bad rap for its underwhelming damage at range and lackluster bullet penetration. However, the Winfield M1873C is the cornerstone of any player’s early days in Hunt. This loadout prioritizes equipment that is available early in the progression tree with the latest unlock being levering at Rank 8. The Winfield’s quick repeating mechanism excels at putting a lot of shots down range, especially follow-up shots in fights within the same compound. Compact ammo damage drops off sharply past 25 meters, but the Winfield ironsight has a thin post that's ideal for headshots. The trait Iron Repeater allows you to remain aimed down sight while cycling the next round, perfect for tracking targets. High Velocity ammo is entirely optional but it will mean that headshots at range (anywhere up to its new max headshot range, 150 meters) won’t require as much lead. If fights get too close for comfort, levering allows for a rapid volley of hip-fired shots, effectively transforming your rifle into a pistol. The only major drawback with this build is its damage over range so expect to need two shots to the chest in most situations and three on the rare longshot. If you have dirtied your white shirt and earned some unlocks further down the tree, there's no reason not to upgrade to the Winfield 1873 (non-C version, unlocked at Rank 27). It's the same gun, just with 8 extra bullets in the tube. There's also the Talon variant that straps an axe blade to the stock to deal the full 330 heavy melee damage of a standard combat axe. This variant can rinse through AI, killing Armoreds in one swing, and break any barricaded doors between you and a holed-up Hunter. It costs a few extra Hunt Dollars, but the Talon can give this loadout another level of utility and more options for CQB. Neither Seen Nor Heard (Image credit: Crytek) Primary: Vetterli 71 Karabiner Silencer, FMJ ammoSecondary: Scottfield Spitfire, FMJ ammoTrait: Iron SharpshooterHunt Dollars: $735 Sometimes the most lethal things are those we don’t see coming. In a game where high-fidelity sound allows you to pinpoint enemies and seeing through walls is a baked-in ability, striking silently is a strong counter to experienced players hunting with all their senses. Silenced rifles have tradeoffs in Hunt, but their ability to surprise enemies without announcing yourself as a primary target makes them well worth your time. The Vetterli Silencer has claimed all my affection recently for its excellent iron sight, satisfying slow muzzle velocity, and unquestionable utility. Use your silencer to quietly headshot AI and move through the world undisturbed. Pair it with FMJ and you have a rifle that can shoot through most the walls you need to at most the ranges you require. Iron sharpshooter gives you a small boost in fire rate, and the Scottfield Spitfire secondary increases your spare ammo pool to 34, making up for any ammo spent on grunts. This loadout is all about testing boundaries, audible and physical. Concertina traps and the hive bomb can help you control an area. The flashbomb and fire bomb can be used offensively and defensively, whether you need to hide your movement or force enemies to push. The Vetterli Silencer edges out other rifles in this category because it retains its damage over range better than the Winfield Silencer and can follow-up shots faster than the Sparks Silencer, meaning you don’t always have to wait for the perfect moment. Those who can master the slow 240 m/s muzzle velocity and avoid failed ambushes will get the most mileage here. The Stalker Team (Image credit: Crytek) Primary: Lebel 1886Secondary: Sparks Pistol, half poison ammoTrait: Iron Sharpshooter, Bulletgrubber, Poison SenseHunt Dollars: $925 The Stalker Beetle buzzed into the Bayou in Update 1.10 and will surely be a pest while the meta adjusts. Hate it or love it, the new throwable opens the door for some kooky combinations like downing wounded hunters with a sticky bomb airlifted by our new exoskeletal friend. This loadout will require some coordination amongst partners and has some variations depending on your marksmanship and bank account. As a quick recap, the Stalker Beetle drone is a great vehicle for reconnaissance, but it has offensive capabilities as well. Holding the primary fire button will trigger a small explosion that deals 5 damage over a 5 meter radius, inflicts medium bleeding, and medium poison damage that prevents healing for around 10 seconds. The devious detail: this explosion can also detonate thrown explosives, including a sticky bomb stuck to its shell. Hunt: Showdown expert; YouTuber http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MpfvnoNH3GrT4g9P8dW5nN.jpg Hunt: Showdown expert; YouTuber HomeReel HomeReel is a YouTuber who specializes in Hunt: Showdown tips, weapon guides, and news updates. He also covers other games in the burgeoning extraction shooter genre. This loadout leans on the high damage of long ammo weapons to greatly weaken your enemies, rendering them perfect targets for your IED drone. A perfect kill goes like this: tag a hunter in the chest, quickly deploy a Stalker Beetle, attach a sticky bomb provided by your parter, and deliver the sticky bomb to the wounded enemy hunter before the 8 second fuse is up. As an added bonus, this loadout works even if an opportunity for a Beetle kill never presents itself. The Lebel and the Sparks pistol work symbiotically, offering two high damage options for the first hit while also increasing the spare ammo pool to 12. The optional poison ammo on the Sparks, when used with Poison sense, will mark the wounded enemy in dark sight for you and your beetle, making it more difficult to hide from winged death. Traits like Iron Sharpshooter (remain aimed down sight between shots; slight fire rate increase) and Bulletgrubber (catch unspent bullets on a partial reload) can assist with some of the cumbersome qualities of the Lebel. Most importantly, the full long ammo build means you will rarely be outranged, even in veteran lobbies. The Sparks LRR might be a better rifle if you don’t want to use a sticky bomb, given that one shot to the chest takes enemies to 1 HP, but its single-shot reload is much more reliant on marksmanship. The Lebel could be swapped for a Mosin, but using the Lebel will save you almost a hundred bucks if your pursuit of beetle-cladded glory doesn’t go to plan. I doubt Beetle bombs will be the preferred method in the most competitive situations, but it does have a bit of pizazz. It remains to be seen if the Stalker Beetle will truly be the anti-camping mechanic Crytek has touted as its solution to stalemates. However, given all the changes coming to Hunt in 1.10, I think these loadouts will be reliable picks until the dust settles. View the full article

At first glance Logitech's G502 X gaming mouse may not appear much different to its predecessors, but look a little closer and you'll notice some useful revisions, in particular for FPS players. While there's no change to the already improved G502 Hero 25k sensor, there are some impressive ergonomic enhancements to note, along with customisability, and weight improvements to boot. In fact, Logitech has doubled down on making the Logitech G502 X lighter. It comes in at 89g, which is a significant difference over the Hero's 121g. Sadly, it doesn't come with the option to configure the weight like the Hero, which would have been a nice addition considering it's going for the same price as its predecessor. In order to improve the weight, several changes have been made. For one thing, there's no LED system behind the Logitech G symbol, or any RGB at all. And while that's a little disappointing that you can't program damage flashes on your mouse, for example, it makes sense to appeal to the FPS audience more. At least, while the scroll wheel is now plastic instead of metal to improve the weight, it still comes with an infinite scroll. The infinite scroll is our Dave's most loved feature and I'm sure he would have written a strongly worded letter if Logitech had done away with his precious spinnies. We've decided between us that the plastic scroll wheel doesn't feel as nice as the old metal one, but we're also both not too bothered about having a heavy mouse. It's a trade-off, for sure, but one that does benefit Logitech's target market in the long run. Logitech G502 X specsSensor: Hero 25,600dpi Polling Rate: 1,000Hz Size: 131.4 x 41.1 x 79.2mm Buttons: 11 Features: Interchangeable thumb button, infinite scroll wheel Ergonomic: Right-handed Weight: 89g (3.1oz) Price: $80 | £80 Comparing the G502 X to my absolute favourite gaming mouse, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed, I've spotted some subtle differences that might not seem like much, but do affect the overall experience. Interestingly (and most evidently) there's now an interchangeable thumb button with a little lip that can be rotated. I assume for use with larger or smaller hands, though hand positioning could also be a factor. It can be swapped with a lip-sans silicon button that, when rotated, can act as a stopper instead of a button. It's a neat little feature, perhaps aimed more at fingertip grippers. Either way, the thumb button in all its forms is a great addition that gives the G502 X that bit of extra customisability, without adding weight. Image 1 of 3 Comparing the white G502 X with the G502 Lightspeed (Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 3 Comparing the white G502 X with the G502 Lightspeed (Image credit: Future)Image 3 of 3 Comparing the white G502 X with the G502 Lightspeed (Image credit: Future) One of the more obvious changes comes in the G502 X's colour options. While there are both black and white versions of the G502 X, both have white PTFE feet. It's an interesting stylistic choice, one that seems to mimic Logitech's overall shift toward a more inclusive range or peripherals—such as with the Logitech Color and Aurora collections, but it is stark and very likely to get mucky quickly if you've an affinity for munching snacks at your desk. The major difference comes in the form of the angle of your hand. While my initial qualm was that the lower profile shell meant my wrist was leaning on the desk a lot, my hand has now shifted around to the intended position. I get it now. It's slightly skewed, similarly to those vertical mice that are all the rage at the moment in offices, which gives it superior ergonomics to the simple flat, front facing hand placement of the original design, without it taking an age to adjust. Pair that with the fantastic thumb rest, longer buttons and you have yourself a superbly ergonomic mouse that boasts improvements we didn't know we needed from the Logitech G502 line. The thumb button in all its forms is a great addition that gives the G502 X that bit of extra customisability. Another change that's not so evident to begin with is the lightforce hybrid switches. They're opto-mechanical, so they combine optical speed with a mechanical actuation. It's not something that's easy to test, speed wise at least, though I've been sitting here clicking the G502 X next to its predecessor for a minute, looking a bit strange in the process, and I can't feel much difference. There's a slightly more resounding click to the newer switches, which is probably owing to a lack of internal components in order to improve the weight. The switches also require a tiny bit more force to activate but it does mean you're less likely to accidentally snipe your own teammates. (Image credit: Logitech) As far as pricing goes, it's being shipped at roughly the same price as the earlier models: $80 for the wired version, $140 for the wireless version, and $160 for the G502X Plus. The latter is the only one with RGB, which pushes the weight up 106g, over the wired version. It's certainly one way to separate the company's more utilitarian users from the rest, but $20 for some RGB LEDs does seem a little steep. The wired version here is the evident choice for the sensible and frugal among us, and the wire actually doesn't create a detriment to the usability. It's long and flexible enough that it doesn't get in the way, and although it's not braided like some of the previous model's cables, it doesn't snag or curl up. I can't say there's a lot to complain about with this one. I personally regarded the previous model as the perfect mouse, and it's almost a shame to remove the weight it had behind it, though I do admit the ergonomic changes are likely better for my hand. The new ergonomics do have the potential to alienate those with larger hands or who don't enjoy the sideways slant, and the weight reduction has meant RGB likers like me would need to spend substantially more. But FPS players with average sized hands are likely to be over the moon with the G502 X. None of the negative points are enough to put me off one of the best lines of mice ever to grace my desk, and the overall improvements certainly outweigh my personal preference. For $80 I have no issues recommending the wired G502 X, it's just a little sad that RGB now costs extra. 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Valve's new handheld gaming PC is still a burgeoning piece of tech, but its accessories market is already crowded enough that we decided to gather the best Steam Deck accessory Prime Day deals. Not a lot of big companies are making accessories for the Deck yet, so much of what you'll find on Amazon right now is of inconsistent quality. We've not only sorted through the Prime Day accessory prices to find the best ones, but we've also tested many of these products ourselves. Below is a roundup of what we recommend. Expect to see a lot of JSAUX, one of the first bigger accessory outfits with a whole line of kit for your Deck—it's got docks, screen protectors, cases, and even backup chargers. You'll also find at least one product that's an absolute must-have for Deck owners, including big price drops on microSD cards that can instantly expand the Deck's memory. JSAUX Kickstand Case | $22.99 $18.39 on Amazon (save $4.60) For all its fancy bells and whistles, the Steam Deck for some reason does not come with a kickstand. This lightweight attachment fixes this grave sin, and it's at its cheapest during Prime Day. JSAUX Steam Deck Screen Protector | 2 pack | Glass | 9H Hardness | $9.99 $7.99 on Amazon (save $2) There's no excuse not to have a good screen protector on your tech these days. Glass protectors are so smooth that you can barely tell you're not actually touching the screen, and you'll be glad you have the first time your weighty Deck falls flat on its face. JSAUX Steam Deck Carrying Case | Hard Shell | Charger Storage | $29.99 $23.99 on Amazon (save $6) The Steam Deck comes with a serviceable case, but this one includes a few nice upgrades: internal space for a charger and power bank, and a flap that serves as a stand for your Deck. Annapro Carrying Case for Steam Deck | Hard Shell | Charger Storage | $39.99 $34.95 at Amazon (save $5) If you want to go bigger on a carrying case, this Annpro bag is currently the best option out there. It's got a pocket that's a perfect size for the deck, as well as ample space for a charger, power bank, and a dock or tablet. IINE Steam Deck Protective Case | Silicon | $29.99 $20.79 at Amazon (save $9) If hard shells aren't your thing, consider a grippy silicon sleeve like this. There are a few silicon cases out there for the Deck and just about any of them will get the job done, but this one comes in a pretty green that really helps offset the Deck's dull gray-on-gray aesthetic. This one also comes with thumbstick covers and screen protectors. JSAUX Docking Station for Steam Deck | 3 USB-A 3.0 ports | HDMI 2.0 | Ethernet | $49.99 $39.99 at Amazon (save $10) JSAUX is making what are currently our favorite third-party hubs for the Steam Deck. This one isn't quite as fancy as its version with an M.2 slot for expanded storage, but it's got plenty of other nice features and a good discount on Prime Day. SanDisk Ultra microSDXC | 1TB | 120 Mb/s transfer speed | $199.99 $97.99 at Amazon (save $102) Prime Day is the perfect time to expand your Steam Deck's memory with a microSD card so big you won't have to think about storage for a while. At these prices I recommend going for a full 1TB, but the 500GB version is on sale as well. AuviPal 90 Degree USB-C Adapter | 2 pack | $9.99 $6.39 (save $3.60) Fancy turning an existing USB-C power block into a backup Steam Deck charger? You'll probably want a pair of these 90-degree adapters. You can plug a standard line into the Deck's top-mounted charging port, but it's clunky, places unnecessary strain on the port, and looks really dumb. View the full article

Overwatch 2 Twitch drops are a decent way of getting fun in-game stuff without having to shell out your hard-earned cash. Though not quite free—since you'll be paying for them with your time—they are convenient for those who'd be watching streams anyway, or who are open to starting. That said, you could also just open a stream in a separate tab and mute it if you just want the stuff. If you're unfamiliar with Twitch drops, they are rewards you get for watching Twitch streams of a particular game, in this case, Overwatch 2. If you watch enough, you can even unlock a Legendary skin for the new character, Kiriko, as well as some other in-game cosmetics and a special voiceline. In this Overwatch 2 Twitch drops guide, I'll explain how to activate Twitch Drops, when you'll need to watch, and how to claim them once you're done. How to set up Overwatch 2 Twitch drops (Image credit: Blizzard) In order to be eligible for Overwatch 2 Twitch drops, you need to link your Twitch and Battle.net accounts. Even if you've done it before, you're going to have to re-link them for it to work with the new game. Here's how to do it: Log in to Battle.net launcherClick the top left Battle.net symbol and select 'My Account'Click 'Connections' on the left side then press the +Connect next to Twitch at the bottomLog in to your Twitch, click 'Authorise', and then click 'Continue' Now your accounts are linked and you can start getting your Twitch drops. How to get the Legendary Kiriko Sukajan skin Image 1 of 3 The Legendary Kiriko Sukajan skin (Image credit: Blizzard)Image 2 of 3 The Donut weapon charm (Image credit: Blizzard)Image 3 of 3 The Razor Sharp Kiriko spray (Image credit: Blizzard) The first two Twitch drops on offer are the Legendary Kiriko Sukajan skin and her extra "I take care of my friends!" voiceline. In order to get both of these you're going to have to watch any Twitch stream in the Overwatch 2 category for six hours between October 7 at 2pm PDT (10pm BST, 5pm ET) and October 16 at 11:59pm PDT (7:59am BST, 2:59am ET). After you watch for two hours you'll unlock the voiceline to claim on Twitch, but then you'll need to watch a further four hours to get the Sukajan skin. The second set of Twitch drops include the Razor Sharp Kiriko spray, and the Donut weapon charm. For the first you'll have to watch any Overwatch 2 stream for two hours between October 17 at 11am PDT (7pm BST, 2pm ET) and October 24 at 12am PDT (8am BST, 3am ET). If you want that Donut Weapon Charm as well, you'll need to watch for a further three hours, for five total. It's worth noting that you don't need to watch the same channel the entire time to earn your drop, so you can progress towards it by watching multiple streams a bit at a time if you choose. Once you've watched enough to earn the drops, you can claim them in your Twitch Drops inventory page. You can also find a full breakdown on the official Blizzard blog post, including which regions can participate in the drops. View the full article

Gaming PCs aren't cheap, so it's important to keep your machine protected from any possible damage. Yet while it's easy enough to tuck the tower under your desk, looking after your keyboard is much more difficult. Sprawled across the middle of your desktop, it's potentially the most exposed part of your setup, constantly accumulating dust and dirt and always one spilled drink away from needing to be replaced entirely. But now there is a way to reduce the risk of putting an unnecessary dent in both your gaming time and your bank account. Enter Decksaver's series of protective covers, designed to keep your keyboard safe from dust, liquids, impacts, and anything else that might turn your keyboard into an expensive dinner tray. For the last fifteen years, Decksaver has dedicated itself to safeguarding the electronic gear of DJs, music producers, pro audio specialists; and now gamers. (Image credit: Decksaver) As a result, Decksaver's protective covers are no simple or flimsy plastic covers. Each cover is fashioned from the company’s specification smoked clear, ultra-durable polycarbonate, the same material that's used in bullet-proof glass! These super-tough covers are not one-size-fits-all affairs either. Each cover is designed to fit precisely onto your specific keyboard, with a wide range of covers available for keyboards from established brands such as Razer, Corsair, Logitech, Roccat, SteelSeries, and Hyper X. Many hours of design, prototyping, and testing go into every cover, ensuring they provide the neatest possible fit over your keyboard while maximising protection. If your cup of coffee slips out of your hand when you sit down at your desk in the morning, not only will a Decksaver cover protect your keyboard from the liquid, it'll protect it from the heavy ceramic too. But the usefulness of a Decksaver cover stretches far beyond preventing occasional accidents. As well as keeping your keyboard safe, Decksaver helps to keep it clean. The average computer keyboard has 104 keys, which is great for playing complex strategy games or nuanced tactical shooters, but less ideal when all those keys start to get gummed up with dust and grime. Nobody wants to lose an entire afternoon to cleaning a keyboard, prying out every single keycap, clearing out whatever horrors have accumulated beneath, washing the keycaps, and waiting for them to dry, before having to painstakingly reset every single one. It's a fiddly, time-consuming, and precarious task, one that can be turned into a thirty-second wipe with a dust-cloth with a Decksaver protective cover. (Image credit: Decksaver) The polycarbonate shell of a Decksaver cover also makes them ideal for transportation. If you're moving house, for example, you don't want to spend an hour unpacking and setting up your PC only to discover your keyboard doesn't work, and a Decksaver cover is much more durable than a roll of bubble wrap or a few packing peanuts. But the covers are also suited for more general travel. Their bespoke slimline fit adds minimal bulk to your keyboard's existing dimensions, making it much easier to sling your keyboard into a case or a rucksack for easy, convenient, and safe transportation. Indeed, Decksaver's covers complement their protective qualities with a distinctive flair for style. Each cover has a subtle smoked clear colour that perfectly complements your keyboard's particular design, letting the specific qualities of your keyboard (such as LED backlighting) shine through. Decksaver's cover design also accounts for the positioning of any wires or ports on your keyboard, ensuring there's no need to unplug or make any alterations to your setup when fitting the cover after your latest gaming session. Prevention is always better than cure, so if you want to maximise your gaming thrills while minimising the risk of spills, head on over to Decksaver's official website and check out their full range of keyboard covers. Your keyboard might be peripheral in name, but it's an essential part of any PC gamer's setup, and a Decksaver cover ensures that your keyboard stays at the centre of your gaming until you decide that it's time for an upgrade. View the full article

Activision has gone to war on the maker of popular Call of Duty cheat software, a German-based entity called EngineOwning (hereafter EO). The videogame publisher has filed a new document in an ongoing suit in California against dozens of named individuals, and among the charges is one that does raise an eyebrow: racketeering. Activision accuses the individuals involved in EO of not just violating the software's terms of use, and wire fraud, but of a RICO violation: essentially saying that this amounts to criminal conspiracy. I've read quite a few suits like this over the years, and usually it's about the in-game terms of service being violated, or the unfair competition element of the cheating software. But under California law, say Activision's lawyers, "Defendants have committed violations of the Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”) [...] by conducting and participating in an enterprise engaged in racketeering activity." These individuals knowingly conspired against Activision in order to sell cheats, the publisher claims, and ran a sophisticated operation intended to undermine the COD series. And now Activision wants all the money they've made through this, and then some. Activision's explanation of why this is racketeering is worth a read, as it shows in outline how these cheat resellers operate at scale. "The Enterprise is a well-coordinated multi-level marketing machine. Defendants work together to continuously sell Cheating Software licenses directly, as well as recruit reseller Defendants. A network of seller and reseller Defendants have perpetuated the same steps as across thousands of instances of marketing, sales, distribution, and support regarding the Cheating Software vis-à-vis numerous separate U.S. customers." So EO sells the cheats, but it also has a network of agents selling the cheats on its behalf (who receive a cut). "Defendants operate according to a common set of norms and rules. Resellers purchase Cheating Software licenses in bulk, and then proliferate Cheating Software marketing and sales through their own advertisements. After selling their bulk stock, Reseller Defendants follow the same pattern of remitting revenue back to the Enterprise, while retaining a portion of revenue for themselves." Activision claims "thousands" of such transactions have taken place in the US and "thousands more" abroad. Activision's lawyers then give a list of shell companies involved in EO before going on to name various individuals, most of whom are located in Germany, though there are also individuals in various US States, the UK, France, Spain and the Netherlands. I'm not going to reproduce all the names because there are absolutely dozens and it would be a somewhat meaningless list, but there is some fun to be had with the various 'Doe' defendants Activision is including in the suit but wasn't able to identify: "Activision is informed and believes, and on that basis alleges, that Defendant 'Big Pile of Poop' is an individual residing in Europe." The three "masterminds and the driving force" identified are defendants Valentin Rick, Leon Schlender, and 'Croatle'. These individuals are primarily responsible for the development of the software, the EO website, and the finances. Additionally the suit names Valentin Rick’s mother, Regina Rick, as providing "administrative, financial, legal, and other consulting services for the EO Enterprise." (Image credit: Activision) No jokes about basements. Then the kicker: Activision not only wants damages and costs, but all the profits obtained by the cheating enterprise, which will be worked-out at trial but is estimated to at least be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. It also says that money isn't enough: these individuals need to be "enjoined and restrained by the court" which means the granting of permanent injunctions against further acts of "unfair competition" against Activision. It wants the cheating software shut down, copies of all EO's software given to Activision for "impoundment or destruction", and basically whatever else it can get. This is, of course, only one side of the story, and the individuals behind EO have yet to defend themselves. They probably shouldn't have done this though: "Defendants have engaged in a pattern of online 'trolling' of Activision and its counsel, such as by creating fake accounts in the name of Activision’s counsel, posting fake messages that purport to be from Activision’s counsel, or using the names of Activision’s counsel in their advertising." Activision is asking for a jury trial, and is certainly going all-out for these individuals. Interestingly enough, the earlier portion of the suit mentions the damage that cheating software like this does to Activision and the COD brand, with the publisher's lawyers saying that because of companies like EO there are negative social media posts and press articles about the game's cheating problem. So it's nice that all those COD fans complaining on Twitter know that someone's taking notice, on which point the suit also claims "Activision has been able to identify and ban hundreds of thousands of accounts using cheating software in the COD Games in just over the past year." The bigger publishers are definitely getting more legally aggressive over cheatmakers and other forms of malfeasance around their games. It's an odd thing to see, because these kinds of shady companies have seemed like a part of PC gaming for as long as I've known it: we've all seen the ads, and consoled ourselves with the knowledge that opponent X was definitely aimbotting. As this suit makes clear, though, enterprises like EO aren't plucky rogues but organised and sophisticated businesses dedicated to making money by compromising another company's product, and a whole bunch of other players' experiences. Is it racketeering though? We're about to find out. View the full article

Inside of me are two wolves: the Gundam superfan and the year one Overwatch enjoyer. Gundam Evolution has thrown these dormant forces into tragic conflict, clashing beam sabers in a pitched battle for supremacy over my mind. There’s no getting around it—this is Gundam: Overwatch, with every mode, mobile suit, map, mechanic, and idea here derivative of Blizzard’s FPS. After a few days of playtime, I can glibly report that Gundam Evolution doesn’t make you feel like you’re piloting a Gundam (if you’re looking for a nauseatingly faithful Gundam game, you’re better holding out for Gundam: Battle Operation 2 dropping later this year), but it nonetheless excels as a hero shooter, even if some of the series’ identity has been lost in the translation from anime to live service game. My experience with Gundam goes back decades. I’ve seen almost every Gundam show, read most of the spin-off manga and novelizations, and if you showed me a random mobile suit, I’d probably be able to tell you what show it's from, if not the specific episode. If you’re unfamiliar with Gundam, think Heinlein’s Starship Troopers novel with giant robots and some Freudian political drama. Gundam’s deeply interpersonal, anti-establishment stories have always translated awkwardly to action games. Gundam Evolution's not the immersive, next-gen simulation fans have been holding out for for decades, but that it manages to channel even a bit of that frenetic energy on its own merits is a significant break from depressing tradition. There’s a real toybox quality to Gundam Evolution that can’t be understated here. There are very few hitscan weapons, the sound effects are all lifted right from the anime (the bassy "ka-chung" of the Zaku II’s monoeye zoom sounds chillingly good), and the swelling orchestral score really hits the Gundam Unicorn pleasure centers in my brain. The action is smooth and tight, often requiring leading your shots with powerful beam rifles and sputtery machine guns. And goddamn, getting fifteen kills with the brutally oppressive Sazabi as the match goes into overtime feels just as good as those blitzkrieg payload runs from early Overwatch. On a good run I don't feel like I'm in the cockpit, but I do feel like I've possessed the body of an ace pilot who is, and that’s a powerful high in its own right. Gundam Evolution pulls from both Overwatch and Titanfall 2, with recharging dashes, abilities on cooldown, and familiar lane-based map design and objective game modes. A motley crew of giant robots pulled from different Gundam shows comprise the "hero" lineup. There are no-brainer picks, like: The iconic RX-78-2 from the 1979 Mobile Suit Gundam (which you may have seen walking around at the last olympics)Gundam Unicorn (yes, another life-size statue in Japan. There are three.)Gundam Barbatos, a cat-like, demonically inspired glass-cannon from the recent Iron-Blooded Oprhans There are also some truly deep cuts: The Pale Rider (a Gundam possessed by a psychic ghost)Dozle Zabi’s Zaku II Praetorian Guard, who did as Praetorian Guard do by letting their boss die aloneThe bizarre, alien-looking Syd Mead-designed Mahiroo and Turn-A Gundam My personal favorite so far is the Asshimar, a quirky little cyclopian hamburger-shaped transforming mobile suit that balances damage-over-time incendiary grenades with a punchy burst fire rifle, able to effectively dive in and out of battle by briefly transforming like a 40-ton McDonald’s toy. The lineup broadly mirrors Overwatch archetypes of DPS, tank, healer, etcetera: The Pale Rider is a half-and-half blend of Tracer & Soldier 76, with a crunchy short-range SMG that mulches enemy suits and easily clears objectives. The RX-78-2 plays like McCree, plinking targets at mid-range and doling out close range stun attacks with a very '70’s mecha ball and chain. The Sazabi definitely feels closest to its on-screen counterpart in Char’s Counterattack, a deceptively fast technical tank with monstrous defense that specializes in area denial and objective holding. The Sazabi can shut down a whole lane by itself, exactly as I'd expect it to do. (Image credit: Bandai Namco) Unsurprisingly, there are a few mobile suits don’t totally feel like accurate or soulful representations of their show counterparts (the TV series cannon fodder GM is a lot more durable than I think most fans would expect), and there’s a real tonal disconnect from the often somber source material. It’s a little odd to play a Gundam game where you’re celebrating getting kills. Most jarringly, the Turn A Gundam's godlike "send human civilization back to the neolithic period" Moonlight Butterfly ability from the show has been replaced with a laughably weak damage over time aura. These are the unwieldy contradictions that Gundam games have always tripped up on, and there’s no getting around the irony that comes from gleefully unloading Turn A’s unearthly weaponry for the noble cause of "Capture Point B." Presentation is the real stumbling point for Gundam Evolution: it nails the shooting but there's no real sense of scale outside of some decorative construction equipment and military vehicles inside of spawn. The maps too lack distinction. "Defense Ministry" resembles a futuristic warehouse more than any government building I’ve ever seen, with samey space industrial tilesets giving way to samey moon craters and landing pads. This lack of distinctiveness is a real drag, not just when viewed in contrast to Overwatch’s maps that are bursting with personality, but also when contrasted against some of the incredible locations seen throughout the anime. Fighting in the wreckage of, or even inside of a space colony plunging through Earth's atmosphere seems like a no-brainer, as does a bomb defusal in the confines of a secret underground base. Another thing that Gundam Evolution really leaves me wanting is that inside-the-cockpit immersion. Compared to Titanfall 2’s titan combat, Gundam Evolution gives me a real "guys in Gundam costumes" vibe. Titanfall 2’s presentation, with the detailed cockpit HUD, visual artifacting when a shell pings off your hull, the motion sway and variable roar of turbines and the ear-splitting grinding of steel on asphalt as you skate between low rise buildings—these all massively amplify the sense of latent weight and power in your machine, something sorely missing from the ace pilot fantasy Gundam Evolution is peddling. It’s a sorry state of affairs when a six-year-old game’s killstreaks are giving me a more immersive first-person mecha experience than a brand new Gundam game. Despite these presentation trip-ups, there’s a very specific feeling that Gundam Evolution ends up channeling. In Zeta Gundam’s final episode, there’s a climactic dogfight in the barrel of a space colony-sized laser weapon. Char Aznable gets caught in a high octane deathmatch with two other high performance mobile suits, his mech picked apart until it’s just barely holding together. Time is running out, the whole chamber begins radiating as the laser charges up, and Char readies himself for another round, gritting his teeth and growling "Not yet! I’m not done yet!" Those moments of white knuckle skill and hot blooded determination in the face of overwhelming odds are, to me, the essence of Gundam. For all of Gundam Evolution’s stylistic shortcomings, it does something no other Gundam game has successfully done. For a brief, fleeting moment, once a match when the stakes are high, you feel like Char Aznable. If it had the confidence to lean its source material more, I think Gundam Evolution could really prove to be a persistent needle in Overwatch 2’s side. View the full article

Ever wonder what happens after an action-packed shootout in a movie? Assuming the police don't get there first, you'd have to think that someone gets sent over to clean up the mess, right? Shell casings, dead bodies, bloodstains, you name it—it's all got to go, and in Serial Cleaners it's your job to take care of it. The game throws you into all kinds of high-intensity scenarios where you need to sort out a crime scene while avoiding the patrolling authorities and other undesirables. The story is depicted through flashback, as the titular cleaners recount their 'glory days' through a filter of 90s cult movie nostalgia. Taking place across iconic era-appropriate settings like old-school arcades, live-audience sitcom sets, and grimy urban locales evoking 90s New York City, Serial Cleaners is a love letter to films from directors like Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, and the Coen Brothers. (Image credit: 505 Games) The homages start on the very first mission, which is set in a drug den inspired by Scorsese's relatively unknown (by the director's lofty standards) Bringing Out the Dead, starring Nicolas Cage. Other stages will give you flashbacks too, such as a certain convenience store that's reminiscent of Kevin Smith's slacker comedy Clerks, and a train station where you need to extract a mobster who's in the process of bleeding out (which may trigger memories of a certain Al Pacino flick that rhymes with 'Crime Don't Pay.') Wander through the arcade level, meanwhile, and you'll see arcade cabinets adorned with legendary quotes from mistranslated 90s Japanese Arcade games. 'All your attention are belong to us?' Good, then let's proceed. (Image credit: 505 Games) It's not just the references that make Serial Cleaners an ode to all that was great about 90s cinema, but the tone of the game. Most of the levels are drenched in moody lighting, splattered with graffiti in the style of Jean-Michel Basquiat, and accompanied by a soundtrack that evokes classic music moments, like the rave in vampiric Wesley Snipes vehicle Blade, or Nine Inch Nails' number in Brandon Lee's The Crow. Maybe to distance the Cleaners from their grisly night job, or maybe simply because it's fun, the game bases its 90s settings not on reality, but in the super-stylised way we remember them through the golden era of gritty, sharp-talking crime films that existed at this time. To that end, each character in the game is a cool '90s archetype (with the 'Psycho' character Hal being a riff on the hitman Mr. Wrench from Coens' crime caper Fargo). (Image credit: 505 Games) Serial Cleaners is almost ready to rewind us back to its faithfully fictionalised version of the 90s. It's not all style without substance either, as at its core this is a stealth game that will push your skills in subtlety to the limit. Its story, we're told, will be something quite special too, with the kind of twist that would throw even Keyser Soze into a loop. You can grab Serial Cleaners from September 22 on Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG, as well as all major console platforms. Meanwhile, check out the game's official site and Steam page, and keep up with the latest goings-on at 505 Games through their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. View the full article

The best cheap gaming keyboard doesn't mean sacrificing the pleasurable clickity clacks high-end model. You might find some features diminished, but you'll get to avoid the financial assault often associated with buying a keyboard. PC peripherals are getting pricey, and keyboards are no exception. With the best models hitting well over $200, we thought it best to weed out those trying to charge that just for the basics. With plenty of affordable gaming keyboards to choose from, I went through and tested them out so you can spend your cash on something worthwhile, because "cheap" doesn't have to mean bad. There's a lot of false economy crap on the market, but this list showcases the best budget keyboards I spotted for under $100, even less than $30 in some cases. What the best gaming keyboards are likely to have more of over those listed here, are extra features. The cheaper keyboards might omit media controls, LED displays, or mechanical switches to keep costs down, and it's sometimes hard to tell what's worth the sacrifice. So I got a tonne of cheap keyboards to test and picked out the ones that are worth it even with those features left out. Those that didn't crumple under the weight of Alan's heavy-'donkey' typing were then selected for the list. We've even included some keyboards that come bundled with other accessories to try and save you even more money. And if you're gagging for features, it might be best to head over to the best mechanical keyboards—we'll always recommend these first. Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: G.Skill)Image 2 of 2 (Image credit: G.Skill) 1. G.Skill KM360 Genuine Cherry MX switches at a great price Switch: Cherry MX Red | Size: Tenkeyless | Backlights: White | Passthroughs: None | Media Controls: Integrated | Wristrest: None AffordableReliable Cherry MX switches Bright white LED No numpad limits its potential for work There is a trend towards $200+ gaming keyboards in the market at the moment, but that doesn't mean there aren't quality mechanical switch boards available at a more reasonable price. Often you'll find these more budget-oriented options offering cheap switches from other manufacturers, but the G.Skill KM360 comes featuring the classic Cherry MX Red linear switch out of the gate. The KM360 is a simple slab of keys. Though this works to its advantage. The fact it offers so little extra beyond the basics is how it's able to deliver genuine Cherry mechanical key switches at an affordable price. That means a precise, reliable, and impressively smooth actuation for gaming and typing. This TKL board is basic, but what it does, it does very well If you can't cope with your gaming board not lit up like a rainbow then you may be disappointed with the single-color option, but damn, the white LEDs on this G.Skill board are the brightest I've ever seen. Normally I like to keep at max brightness all day long, but the KM360 would burn out my retina if I did. This TKL board is basic, but what it does, it does very well. It's solid, well-built, reliable, and looks pretty decent too. There's no wrist rest, no passthrough, or media controls, but I'll happily give it a pass in favor of affordable functionality. Best gaming keyboard | Best graphics cards| Best gaming chair Best VR headset | Best wireless gaming mouse | Best wireless gaming keyboard (Image credit: E-Element) 2. E-Element Z-88 Mechanical Keyboard Best cheap keyboard with a variety of switch types and colors Switch: Outemu Blue, Brown, Red | Size: 81-Key | Backlights: Preset RGB | Passthroughs: No | Media controls: Function Key | Wrist rest: No Variety of Outemu switchesAluminum backplateAvailable in black or whiteNo wrist restOn the expensive side The Z-88 from E-Element is available in either black or white and offers a variety of Outemu switches, meaning it's great for the cheap connoisseur who likes to pick and choose everything about their setup. Those Outemu switches don't feel as high-grade as the Cherry ones listed above, but they are genuinely mechanical. That means you don't have to worry about the spongey feeling of a membrane no more. The keycaps do look and feel a bit cheaper than you might expect of a well-known brand, but they are easy to read on the E-Element. They're made of ABS plastic, which is the least resistant to wear of the two commonly found keycap materials, but ABS plastic is often found on more expensive keyboards, too. Just don't slam the keys too hard in anger and you'll be okay for a good while. It's a cheaper board but you're grabbing mechanical for under $50 here. Plus it's often discounted for even less. We saw it go for $30 earlier this year, so keep an eye out for those sales. While you will notice the difference in quality between this and a pricier gaming keyboard, at least you aren't settling for anything less than mechanical. (Image credit: Havit) 3. Havit Mechanical Keyboard and Mouse Combo Best cheap keyboard and mouse combo Switch: Proprietary Blue | Size: Full Size | Backlights: Preset RGB | Passthroughs: No | Media Controls: Function key | Wrist rest: Yes Sleek industrial lookIncluded mouseSide backlightingDetachable wrist restNo softwareNo dedicated media keys While only available with clicky proprietary blue switches, this model does come packaged with a wired, optical gaming mouse. That's the big benefit of this two-in-one Havit package: you don't need to throw even more money at a gaming mouse. You're essentially ready to game with this one, surprisingly affordable package. The exposed hardware and aluminum backplate give this version of the Havit mechanical keyboard a sturdy, industrial look. And it must be said that it is a fairly sturdy, if a little plasticky feeling, keyboard. The keycaps and fairly easy to navigate, as well, and there's even a wrist rest included. What I will say about that wrist rest is that it doesn't offer a tremendous amount of support, as it's so low to the ground and doesn't have any padding. Best not buy it just for that one feature, then. Besides the lack of exclusive customization software or dedicated media controls, this package of Havit peripherals leaves little to be desired. I mean you're getting two for the price of one here, and that's great if you need a keyboard and mouse in a pinch and for less. Image 1 of 6 (Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 6 (Image credit: Future)Image 3 of 6 (Image credit: Future)Image 4 of 6 (Image credit: Future)Image 5 of 6 (Image credit: Future)Image 6 of 6 (Image credit: Future) 4. Keychron K2 (Version 2) The most affordable wireless keyboard Switch: Gateron | Size: 84-key | Backlight: White LED | Passthrough: None | Media Controls: Function shortcuts | Wristrest: None | Keycaps: ABS Well-pricedGreat overall build qualitySeamless connectivitySomewhat scratchy switches This is exceptionally cheap for a wireless keyboard. Even more so for its high quality. It starts out at just $69, and for that, you get a decent-sized gaming keyboard with great wireless functionality and genuinely mechanical Gateron switches. Its design is nicely simple with grey ABS keycaps and a slightly more compact 84-key layout that only skimps out on the numpad and offers a slightly squashed nav cluster. Whilst I’ve previously argued that 60% compact keyboards may be the way to go if you’re a spacesavin’ gamer, the Keychron K2’s 75% offering may just make me rethink that decision. For more of an affordable board, the build quality is nicely sturdy with no deck flex and a decent bit of heft. It’s no Model M of course, but for the price, I don’t have any complaints. The triple device connectivity definitely makes short work of switching devices. As switches go, my review sample is kitted out with some Cherry MX Brown clones courtesy of Gateron. As much as Gateron say there’s a 55g weight to them, I can’t help but think they feel an awful lot lighter than that, and in comparison to the real things, also feel a tad hollow. To make matters worse, underneath the Backspace and Enter key, it’s possible to hear the sound of the metal stabilizer making the switches pretty pingy, which brings the feeling of the Keychron K2 being a more affordable board too close to home. The triple device connectivity definitely makes short work of switching devices or locations throughout the working day. I checked it out on my PC and MacBook Pro and on the K2’s left-hand side there's a little switch next to the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi switch that lets you choose whether to use it in Windows or Mac mode. All the changes are practically instantaneous, and as for the pairing process via Bluetooth, it couldn’t have been simpler. Battery life is also something to write home about with a 4000mAh capacity ensuring the K2 can go the distance, with or without backlighting. You’ll find a total of 68 hours with full lighting and 240 hours with it off. All in all, if you’re looking for an entry-level mechanical keyboard, this is a good choice, especially if you’re working from home and using multiple devices. That's not even considering its wireless capability, which really feels like the icing on the cake of the already impressive Keychron K2. And if the Gaterons aren't to your taste, the K2 is also available in a hot-swappable form. Read our full Keychron K2 review. (Image credit: HyperX) 5. HyperX Alloy Core RGB A trusted brand made affordable Switch: Membrane | Size: Full Size | Backlights: 16.8 Million Color RGB | Passthroughs: No | Media controls: Dedicated | Wrist rest: No Dedicated media keysDedicated softwareTrusted brandSpill-resistantPlastic bodyMembrane switches HyperX is a trusted name among peripheral manufacturers. While it typically caters to a more premium brand, the Alloy Core RGB brings extensive features and reliable performance at an affordable price. The price does skirt the definition of a "budget" keyboard, but the dedicated media controls and customization software help justify the MSRP. HyperX has had to incorporate membrane switches for this particular model, but that has the added effect of making the Alloy Core spill-resistant. We'd prefer mechanical keys, but a quality membrane is still much better than some old office board. With the Alloy Core, it's a decision of what you're after in a gaming keyboard. If you're after a full-size keyboard with some extra features and solid RGB lighting effects, something like the Alloy Core or the Roccat Magma are more your speed. You're not going to find many mechanical keyboards going for very cheap with a full-size layout, as every switch is an added cost. Though if you don't necessarily want a full-size board, we still recommend a mechanical keyboard first and foremost, like those above. A really rubbish mechanical board can feel worse under finger than a much better made membrane one, so we wanted to throw in a couple of alternatives for the mechanical switches if, for whatever reason, those weren't your thing. (Image credit: Roccat) 6. Roccat Magma membrane keyboard A membrane board with style Switch: Membrane, Rubber dome | Size: Full Size | Backlights: 5 zone RGB | Passthroughs: No | Media controls: Function keys | Wrist rest: Yes Nicely tactile for a membrane boardUnique RGB top plate designAnti-ghosting and 26-key rolloverSilent keypressesRGB cycle isn't very smoothNot the sturdiest boardWrist rest not cushioned Perfect peripherals (Image credit: Colorwave)Best gaming mouse: the top rodents for gaming Best gaming keyboard: your PC's best friend... Best gaming headset: don't ignore in-game audio I've been thoroughly impressed by the tactility of the Roccat Magma membrane keyboard's rubber dome switches, and the unique RGB top plate design really is a sight. Though it may not be as sturdy as some boards, nor as full of fancy greebles, it's a (literal) beacon of excellence among membrane gaming keyboards. Sadly, there's no per-key lighting here, but Roccat has opted for 5 separately configurable lighting zones behind the keycaps. The zoned RGB design does still offer some nice gradients and effects, but the cycle isn't as smooth as it could be, and the colors aren't super accurate. It looks a little dim in places, and there are a few blemishes under the top plate that detract from the design, though some might like the Cyberpunky 'naked look' Roccat was going for here. Swarm software has some funny gimmicky features, like the ability to add sounds to your key presses, such as a typewriter, or some laser beam pew-pews. The most practical feature comes in the form of Roccat's Easy Shift key assignment. Not all the keys are assignable, but there's a huge list of potential actions for each one that is. It delivers without breaking the bank. The Magma's non-mechanical nature means that—although the keycaps do come off for easy cleaning—you won't be able to jam fancy new keycaps onto it like you would a mechanical counterpart. But actually, and I hate to admit this, I really like the rubber dome membrane construction Roccat has used here. It's oddly tactile, with great feedback and actuation, as well as being soft and silent for keeping on your teammates' good side. The Magma isn't the sturdiest board ever. Compare it to some of the solid, milled metal boards around and there's some minor concern that when you press down on the spacebar with force—the board bows a little. As long as you don't intend to smash the keyboard with your fist, you should be ok. But something to keep in mind: if you're an exceptionally heavy typist, a metal keyboard is a better option. Otherwise, it's a spectacular-looking board. The deeply rounded corners and thick black frame really set it off, and the lettering isn't some overkill, sci-fi typeface. There may not be dedicated media controls, but it's a nifty full-size keyboard with function keys and 26-key rollover, as well as anti-ghosting, so it's everything you need for competitive gaming. That's what Roccat was aiming for, and it delivers without breaking the bank. You even get a wrist rest with it, and although it's not spongy, it's a nice bit of support. The Roccat Magma is a keyboard for gamers who prefer a soft and silent, yet tactile feel from a membrane board, and are happy to have their whole board lit up like a quest item. With its outlandish lighting design choice, it's a board for flashy, '80s retro aesthetic enthusiasts who're looking to do some competitive gaming for cheap. And despite some minor annoyances, such as the RGB color inaccuracies and a hard wrist rest, it's nothing that can't be overlooked for the $60 (£50) price tag. Read our full Roccat Magma review. Best cheap gaming keyboards FAQ Where are all the cheap keyboards with fancy key switches? Cheaper keyboards used to always come with membrane switches. And that's still somewhat the case, depending where you look and which brands. However, there are a ton of cheaper mechanical switch brands out there nowadays, offering something akin to a Cherry switch. So don't fret if you want to ditch membrane and go mechanical: it's definitely possible. Cheaper keyboards will have an overall different feel than your standard Razer and SteelSeries keyboards. But don't worry, these great-value gaming keyboards will still feel good under your fingertips, and your wallet will thank you for it. If you want to know more about switches, you can read our detailed explanation of mechanical key switches. Jargon buster - keyboard terminology Actuation Point The height to which a key needs to be pressed before it actuates and sends an input signal to a device. Clicky A switch that delivers an audible click every time it's pressed, generally right around the point of actuation. Debounce A technique to ensure that only one input registers every time a key is pressed. Housing The shell that surrounds the internal components of a switch. Hysteresis The result of the actuation point and reset point in a switch being misaligned. This generally means a key needs to be lifted off of further than normal before it can be actuated again. Linear A switch that moves directly up and down, generally delivering smooth keystrokes without noise or tactile feedback. Mechanical Keyboard A keyboard built around individual switches for each key rather than a membrane sheath mounted on a PCB. Membrane Keyboard A keyboard on which all the keycaps are mounted on a membrane sheath; when a key is pressed, a rubber dome depresses and pushes against the sheath and PCB beneath, actuating the key. Stem The component of a switch on which the keycaps are mounted on a mechanical keyboard. Switch The physical component of a mechanical keyboard beneath the keycaps on a mechanical keyboard. The switch determines how a key is actuated, whether or not it provides audible or tactile feedback with each press, and more. Tactile A switch that provides a 'bump' of feedback every time it's pushed. Tenkeyless A keyboard that lacks the right-hand number pad. View the full article

Left-handed mice are sometimes hard to track down. So many options out there are only made for right-handed users; you might not even realize there were left-handed mice out there. If you need a left-handed mouse, there are some impressive left-handed versions of popular mice as well as ambidextrous ones to support you. When using a mouse with the 'wrong' hand, you absolutely feel it. The ergonomics are all wrong, the side button arrangements are a nightmare, and using your left hand on a right-handed (and vice-versa) feels really bad. You can get used to such arrangements, of course, but using a mouse that has been designed for your preference feels so much better. So much more natural. Though options are limited, there are still a handful of excellent gaming mice for lefties. You might notice that left-hander versions of some mice have lower stock and, in some cases, might be a hair more expensive at retail (I call it a lefty tax). So make sure to also look into ambidextrous mice by popular manufacturers like Razer, Logitech, and Corsair. They have fewer features, but they are comfortable to use, and the buttons can be customized to your liking. Best left-handed gaming mouse Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Logitech)Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Logitech)Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Logitech)Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Logitech)Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Logitech) 1. Logitech G903 The best wireless left-handed mouse DPI: 12,000 | Sensor: Optical PMW3366 | Battery: 32Hrs (w/o RGB) Li-ION | Interface: USB | Buttons: 11 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous | Weight: 107g (3.1oz) Removable buttonsGreat ergonomics and battery lifeVery satisfying clickLacks storage space for the dongleFavors larger hands The Logitech G903 is not strictly a left-handed mouse, but it has to be in contention with its ambidextrous design. That and the fact that it's still one of the best gaming mice ever made, even so long after its initial launch. Starting with the design, it's a really comfortable shape that fits the hand well and houses removable thumb buttons that can be changed according to the user (should you ever have a right-handed person usurp your mouse from you). Said thumb buttons, and the others on the pointer, have the best click I’ve ever tested: satisfying to push, feel, and hear. On top, its metal scroll wheel can click side-to-side and spin freely for 15 seconds—though you can use it as a notched button if you prefer. It uses Logitech’s tried and tested (and incredibly accurate) 12,000 DPI sensor, too. Overall, the G903 is a quality wireless option for lefties that will serve you just as well, if not slightly better, than some wired alternatives. It's also compatible with Logitech's wireless charging kit, though that adds a significant premium onto the already pricey package. But, having said that, you could even plug it in and use it as a wired mouse if you prefer. You weirdo. Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: Razer)Image 2 of 4 (Image credit: Razer)Image 3 of 4 (Image credit: Razer)Image 4 of 4 (Image credit: Razer) 2. Razer Naga Left-handed Edition The best MMO mouse for lefties DPI: 20,000 | Sensor: Razer Focus+ optical sensor | Interface: USB | Buttons: 19+1 programmable buttons | Ergonomic: Left-handed | Weight: 109g (3.8oz) Dedicated left-hand designSooo many buttonsOnly one choice of button layoutChunky and heavy The Razer Naga has long been the go-to MMO mouse of choice, but resolutely inaccessible for left-handed gamers. There's no way you could squeeze all those buttons onto an ambidextrous design. Thankfully Razer has created the online-exclusive Naga Left-Handed Edition which caters purely for the sinister southpaws. Form and function-wise it is identical to the right-handed Naga design, which means that MMO or MOBA gamers have an otherwise unprecedented volume of programmable buttons at their finger and thumbtips. The sad thing is that it lacks the swappable button panels of the Naga Pro, as 12 button panel can be unwieldy to use effecitvely in the heat of battle. It's also a rather chunky and relatively heavy mouse too, which makes it more of a specialised weapon than a daily driver of a gaming rodent. But it is one of the very few gaming mice designed purely with left-handers in mind, and in a many-buttoned use case that previously passed them by. And that means it's a must for this list. Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Razer)Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Razer)Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Razer)Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Razer)Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Razer) 3. Razer Viper Best lightweight left-handed mouse for esports DPI: 16,000 | Sensor: Optical 5G | Interface: USB | Buttons: 8 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous | Weight: 69g (2.4oz) Super lightweight frameVery comfortable16K DPI and 5G sensorNot for palm grip gamersSide buttons can be tricky to press You can always argue for bigger and more so far as gaming mice are concerned, but Razer wisely takes the path less traveled here. The Razer Viper is a scalpel of a pointer with absolutely no excess to weigh it down. That extends to its spartan design and the impressive, cutting-edge tech inside. The Viper offers an exceptionally smooth glide, coming in at just 69g and with a 16,000 DPI 5G sensor. Its optical switches are the real headline act, though. These are supposed to triple actuation speed and provide nearly instantaneous responses to every click. This results in blindingly fast action, making the Viper perfect for esports. Its ambidextrous design is also comfortable for the claw grip gamer, but because of its diminutive scale, it can take a little getting used to for those who prefer an all-encompassing palm grip. Image 1 of 3 Logitech G Pro Wireless (Image credit: LOGITECH)Image 2 of 3 Logitech G Pro Wireless bottom view (Image credit: LOGITECH)Image 3 of 3 Logitech G Pro Wireless bottom view of dongle storage (Image credit: LOGITECH) 4. Logitech G Pro Wireless Logitech's simple, classic wireless ambidextrous rodent DPI: 16,000 | Sensor: Optical HERO 16K | Battery: 40Hrs | Interface: Wireless and USB | Buttons: 8 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous | Weight: 81g (2.9oz) Swappable componentsExcellent designExtremely lightProprietary USB charging cable The G Pro Wireless is peerless for cord-free pointers, packing Logitech's excellent 16,000 DPI HERO sensor and the kind of latency-free experience you'd expect from a wired mouse. It's incredibly light, sitting just over the 80g weight mark, but it doesn't feel cheap or disposable, unlike some more lightweight mice. Instead, it's crafted of high-quality materials and exhibits performance to match. Logitech designed every component in the G Pro Wireless to be as light and durable as possible, including shaving down the thickness of the chassis' side walls without sacrificing composition or density. Judging from the multiple hard tumbles, the G Pro has survived from my desk; it's a very sturdy kit. It also boasts a healthy 40 hours of battery life and is customizable, with buttons on the side panels that can be removed and traded out for smooth inserts, if that's your preference. You could also pair the G Pro with Logitech's Powerplay charging mat and never worry about running out of juice again. The only real downside is the price tag: at around $120, the G Pro isn't cheap, but it can fully justify that cost with quality. Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Corsair)Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Corsair)Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Corsair)Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Corsair)Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Corsair) 5. Corsair M55 RGB Pro This budget ambidextrous pointer delivers the goods DPI: 12,400 | Sensor: Optical | Interface: USB | Buttons: 8 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous | Weight: 89 g (3.1oz) Comfortable, sleek designSmooth glideLightweightSlightly spongy clickSide grips feel cheapScroll wheel is hard to reach with fingertip grip This isn’t Corsair’s first rodeo when it comes to ambidextrous mice. It had a go in 2015 with the Katar, a bulky vision in gray that’s long-since been pulled from shelves. The M55 stands head-and-shoulders above it in almost every way. To start with, it has a far superior CPI count of 12,400 compared to its predecessor’s 8,000. Secondly, it drops the Katar’s Darth Vader-esque grill for a black design that has more in common with the Corsair Harpoon. It’s understated. Chic. The M55 RGB Pro is comfortable underhand, too. Although its tear-drop shape may feel strange to those who haven’t used an ambidextrous mouse before, you quickly become used to it. The matte shell is also pleasantly grippy, which means you’re never less than in complete control. Flaws are lurking beneath the M55’s attractive shell, such as a slight stiffness to its click action: its Omron switches are very slightly resistant—a colleague described it as "spongey." But while there's not a great deal to rave or complain about, it’s available for such an affordable price that it's definitely worth a look. . Read the full Corsair M55 RGB Pro review. Best gaming keyboard | Best gaming PC | Best gaming chair Best VR headset | Best wireless gaming mouse | Best wireless gaming keyboard Image 1 of 6 (Image credit: Steelseries)Image 2 of 6 (Image credit: Steelseries)Image 3 of 6 (Image credit: Steelseries)Image 4 of 6 (Image credit: Steelseries)Image 5 of 6 (Image credit: Steelseries)Image 6 of 6 (Image credit: Steelseries) 6. SteelSeries Sensei 310 A comfortable, underrated all-rounder DPI: 12,000 | Sensor: Optical | Interface: USB | Buttons: 8 | Ergonomic: Ambidextrous | Weight: 92g (3.2oz) Light at 92 gramsGreat design with good grips and materialsNon-braided cableSoftware isn't the easiest to use Best gaming mouse (Image credit: Razer, Corsair)For a deeper look at what the best mice are for gaming check out our best gaming mouse list. This is an underrated mouse that has benefited from a complete overhaul of its predecessor. Almost all of the Sensei 310 is brand new, apart from the excellent ambidextrous shape, and that's exactly how it should be. The Sensei’s design is now easy to grip and won’t feel weird if you have hot or sweaty palms. The shape is wonderfully comfortable and will be ideal for those looking for a mid-sized pointer for their machine. It has a pair of thumb buttons on both sides, identical in arrangement and placing. These may well get in the way for either a left- or right-handed user, but because of the redesign, they are both near enough to be used but just out of the way enough to avoid accidental clicking. Anyone looking for a mid-sized and light-enough option should consider the Sensei 310. Left-handed gaming mouse FAQ Are there dedicated left-handed gaming mice?Most gaming mice are either made specifically to fit in the dominant right hand of the majority of users, or are designed to be as comfortable in either hand as possible. But, because of the smaller target audience, there are few that are made to cater for a purely left-handed ergonomic. Razer has created a left-handed version of the popular Naga, however, which is a smart choice given its many-button design cannot work in an ambidextrous layout. Are ambidextrous mice good?The general consensus is that an ambidextrous mouse—those designed to be used with either left or right hands—are best suited to gamers who favor a claw or fingertip grip style. Those who prefer a palm grip, where they lay their entire hand on the mouse, can find them less comfortable than a mouse designed specifically for their dominant hand. Can you switch a mouse to be left-handed?You can reconfigure the left and right mouse buttons from within Windows itself. From inside 'Settings,' click on 'Devices,' click on 'Mouse,' and use the 'Select your primary button' drop down to configure the main button. View the full article

RPG Time: The Legend of Wright is a game about playing a game, and that game is a ruled blue notebook pretending to be an RPG. Specifically it's the notebook of a boy named Kenta, every page bursting with giant monsters, bat-filled caves, and fantasy villages he's drawn all by himself. The presentation of this paper game-within-a-game is flawless. Flipped pages offer brief glimpses of adventures still to come; Kenta's music player always sits just off to one side, the displayed track title and album cover always changing to suit the story's mood. My play area is a simple wooden school desk for me to look over at my leisure, covered in coloured cardboard and a thousand bits of repurposed stationary. But every developer has a fancy pencil-effect shader and realistic looking materials at their fingertips these days, don't they? "Childhood drawings come to life" is not an original idea. What sets RPG Time apart is the way the game uses its handmade style to create objects that not only look real but act real too. Kenta's narration (complete with paper hats for each character he voices) really makes playing RPG Time feel like an excited friend is showing me the comic they made over a summer holiday. He enthusiastically scribbles fluffy white clouds an ominous black with his pencil when the monsters arrive in his story, invites us to peel off the brightly coloured sticky notes covering his comic panels, and introduces giant dragons as paper cut-outs stapled onto stripy straws. Our hero's sword is a pencil with a card hilt slid over the end, sharpened using a pencil sha—sorry, I mean "a blacksmith's forge"—and secret messages from the captured princess are delivered via paper planes that float onto the notebook and then unfold before my eyes, their slightly wonky creases still visible. The story Kenta shares is unapologetically a kids' idea of a grand RPG tale, where cliches are embraced without a hint of irony. Defeated enemies may become helpful friends, funny events can happen just because they raise a smile. It freely messes with its own continuity in a way that would inspire angry Reddit threads if it were a "real" story. Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス)Image 2 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス)Image 3 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス)Image 4 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス) Playing RPG Time as Kenta unfolds his fantasy feels like I have a friend working hard to make sure I enjoy myself above anything else. It's littered with optional items to leave behind, alternative choices to pick another day, and sidequests to ignore—the aim is always to play, and not necessarily in the complete-every-task way games have trained us to over the years. On the surface RPG Time is a celebration of the Dragon Quest-like RPGs that have brought joy to millions of people over the decades. But what this game really wants to champion with its deliberately amateurish framing is what we did as children with those stories after we'd been forced to turn the game off and sit at the dinner table. RPG Time hopes to be a loving reminder of how we used to play, how we used to draw legally-distinct Slimes in faltering felt tip pens for our He-Man toys to fight, how we used to decide who had won or lost a monster battle with friends based on the number of scribbles drawn on top of the other person's imaginary beast. When you've spent years learning what good games "should" look like, with their sensible rules, intelligent concepts, and careful balance, being invited to play feels almost revolutionary. RPG Time's tape measure life bars and cut-out achievements are a reminder of all I'd forgotten about playing games: I never hoped the sword-wielding heroes on my TV would take part in a cohesive storyline, have a backstory filled with political intrigue, or even a consistent moveset—I wanted them to have an adventure. I wanted spells that went FZZZ and evil magicians to go MWAHAHAHA. That's how you know they're evil! Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス)Image 2 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス)Image 3 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス)Image 4 of 4 (Image credit: 株式会社デスクワークス) Tapping into this childlike freedom allows RPG Time's world to be a charming stream of imaginative ideas born from paper cups and perler beads—and it's also why there's more creativity and variety in any 10 minutes of Kenta's homemade quest than I could ever hope to find in 10 hours of many triple-A RPGs. I've fished up a tank, enjoyed a hot bath with a turtle, and patiently queued with ants to grab a dessert. I've solved maths problems on a monster's shell and carefully popped a balloon with a compass' needle. Of all the RPGs I've ever played, this is the one where I honestly don't know what's coming next, but I know for sure I'm going to enjoy finding out. I might even dare to draw the next chapter myself, if I can find my old notebook. View the full article

Newly-appointed lair architect to the evil mastermind, your job is to build the best lair. The competition? The... other minions of the evil mastermind. Whoever builds the best lair wins. That's the setup to Chambers of Devious Design, a recently-released indie puzzler that has you plopping down tiles to delight the boss and destroy the competition. It wears its inspirations on its sleeve, taking from the world board games in the same way that something like Hearthstone takes from competitive card games. I'm always on the lookout for things that remind me of tile-placement board game Castles of Mad King Ludwig, so I was quite intrigued when this one fell into my inbox. I bring up Hearthstone because it does things with its digital form that you just can't do on tabletop. Randomized piles of weird rooms to choose from, fidgety placement that'd get wrecked on a table, and perhaps most delightful of all: Full-on PVP combat in a tile placement game. See, among your many tiles are cannons, lightning guns, lasers, and just straight-up rooms full of dynamite. Placing these lets you target other players' complexes, all built on the same grid as yours, demolishing their rooms and knocking down their score point by point. Finally, a tile placement game where you can loose a barrage of cannon fire to knock pieces out of the other player's perfect combo. Placing rooms perfectly also gives you all manner of activated one-shot powers and abilities, many of which are the kind of things that'd be cumbersome or annoying on tabletop. Why do I compare to tabletop? Because if it was just doable as a board game I'd be here asking why it's not just a board game. This is definitely a game I'm glad to have in my pocket for local multiplayer nights, and it's remote play together enabled so you can shell out for a single copy and bring along three friends to build weird bases together. Chambers of Devious Design also has a full campaign and AI to play against, too. You can find Chambers of Devious Design on Steam, from Redbeak Games, for $12. Redbeak Games previously developed strategy game Mortal Glory, a gladiator management sim combined with tactical combat. View the full article