#best gaming headset 2020

[wrestlezon]

Best Friends & Orange Cassidy vs Miro & Kip Sabian and Penelope Ford Feud (Oct 2020 - Mar 2021)

Hey, I finally finished putting this together! (its just tv stuff, i missed any twitter tweets)

I've supplied (brief) summaries, hyperlinks, and timestamps for each show, mostly to fite/triller where you can directly watch them if you have an AEW+ sub. If you don't, I tried to include some youtube/twitter alternative links where applicable. I've also left the bilibili video ids from before I got fite/triller, they're in blue.

(My advice: feel free to skip straight to Jan 06 2021.)

It's a looooong post, so its under this readmore. You can also find it as a separate page on my tumblr here. if i end up hosting it anywhere else i'll edit the original post and put a link here as well maybe

by zon :)

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OCT 14 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-anniversary-show-live-results-four-title-matches-322571

The feud begins. The first match of the show is Best Friends vs FTR. Kip and Penelope are… playing… on an arcade cabinet in the arena. Trent accidentally destroys the cabinet while fighting FTR. Kip and Penelope to run off. After the match ends, they return with Miro who beats up Chuck and Trent. After a commercial break, Miro/Kip have a tag match (squash) against Lee Johnson/Sean Maluta and then do a promo about the broken arcade cabinet.

0:16:21 arcade break | 0:20:00 Miro Appears | 0:26:00 Miro/Kip/Penelope postmatch promo

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-42-20/2p88b/ BV1Rp4y1r7y9

(later on in this show, Orange has a match against Cody for his TNT Championship.)

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OCT 28 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-live-results-world-title-eliminator-semifinals-323741

Returning from supporting Orange Cassidy in his lumberjack match, Best Friends bump into Miro, Kip, and Penelope (MKP, if you will) in the halls. MKP are pretty chill about the whole broken arcade thing and offer them some presents and halloween treats. Chuck and Trent are unamused. MKP then reveal that it was merely a halloween trick™ and beats them up.

1:17:00 best friends + MKP backstage promo

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-44-20/2p8ac/ BV1j5411L7GM

Also, Orange has a rematch against Cody for that TNT championship since their last match ended due to the time limit. This time its a lumberjack match. Best Friends are present and also take part in the chaos.

54:28 Orange’s match entrance | 57:50 Cody’s entrance (and the rest of the match)

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NOV 2 2020

Excalibur interviews Trent and Miro ahead of their upcoming match on Wednesday over webcam. It’s 6 minutes long, and mostly Excalibur bearing witness to Trent and Miro arguing. Gonna give a shout out to their distinct webcam setups, lol (Trent is using workout earbuds and sitting in what has to be a large dim empty room, Excalibur is in his bedroom, and Miro is in his gamer office with a headset)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N1SZTP8ywc

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NOV 4 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-live-results-full-gear-go-home-show-324296

Trent vs Miro. During the entrances they show a clip from the interview from Nov 2nd. Orange and Chuck are hanging out ringside, as well as Kip and Penelope. Eventually Chuck runs off stage while fighting Kip. Dark Order appear to beat up Orange since hes fighting John Silver at the upcoming Full Gear. Miro scares them off and then defeats Trent with his submission hold. After the match, Miro puts Trent back into his Game Over submission and Chuck runs in to save him. Kip was following close behind. Chuck and Trent get both of their asses kicked. Orange attacks MKP and the two sides split off.

0:23:25 Trent vs Miro | 0:28:00 Chuck leaves | 0:31:00 Dark Order appears | 0:37:23 Match Ends | 39:40 Postmatch ends

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-45-20/2p8cy/ BV1wV41117E7

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NOV 6 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dark-results-daniels-vs-sydal-taylor-vs-johnson-324511

Chuck Taylor fights Lee Johnson on AEW Dark. Nothing MKP-related happens, but at the start Excalibur briefly brings up the ongoing feud Best Friends are having with Miro/Kip/Penelope. Plus its a fun match for AEW Dark.

43:56 Chuck Taylor vs Lee Johnson

https://youtu.be/S_ShrIJ4hVQ?t=2636

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NOV 7 2020

www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-full-gear-live-results-five-title-matches-omega-vs-page-324571

Full Gear! Orange has a match against John Silver. Later on, he gets interviewed by Dasha alongside Best Friends. MKP interrupt the interview– Kip’s mad that Orange’s beef with the Dark Order caused them to show up at the Trent vs Miro match, and that they could’ve hurt Penelope. He asks for an apology from Orange and then immediately slaps him anyway. Best Friends get mad on his behalf but Orange casually says everythings cool and walks with the two of them offscreen. Everyone is confused at how chill he is.

3:09:53 Backstage Interview

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-full-gear-2020/2p83a/ BV18K4y1E7uE

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NOV 11 2020

They play the segment from Full Gear on this Dynamite and announce Kip vs Orange for next week.

1:36:45

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-46-20/2p8ef/

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NOV 18 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-live-results-pac-returns-world-title-contract-signing-325391

Kip Sabian vs Orange Cassidy. Best Friends accompany Orange for his entrance, but return to the back. Miro’s on commentary calling Trent his Young Boy. JR brings up Kip and Penelope’s upcoming marriage. After Orange wins the match, Miro sprints from the commentary table to punch out Orange. Best Friends show up immediately after and MKP run off.

0:26:53 Match Start | 39:50 Match End

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-47-20/2p8ft/ BV1jK4y1j79q

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NOV 24 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dark-results-dark-order-vs-janelakiss-vs-chaos-project-325946

Trent vs Michael Nakazawa Chuck and Orange are hanging around ringside. Not necessarily MKP-related, but Excalibur mentions their feud. The Wrestling Observer article says that Nakazawa sabotaged Trent during his match against Miro way back when, but I’m not sure where that’s specifically mentioned. It’s really just in service of facilitating this goofy comedy match.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=pf1mr41FoLQ&t=1123s

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NOV 25 2020

Miro & Kip’s game livestream is interrupted by OC. Its a trap by the Best Friends!

twitter.com/AEW/status/1331783338214961153

or:

1:11:03

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-48-20/2p8h6/

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DEC 1 2020

Best Friends have an AEW Dark match against Sean Maluta & Adam Priest. Unrelated to the feud, it seems? https://youtu.be/oLW9pywcIYI?t=2722

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DEC 2 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-winter-coming-live-results-moxley-vs-omega-326461

The show starts off with the Dynamite Diamond Battle Royale, and it has Orange Cassidy in it. It comes down to him, Wardlow, and MJF, and Orange eliminates Wardlow to end the match and qualify for the dynamite diamond ring match next week. Best Friends come out to pick him up congratulate him. Orange flops to the ground like a sack of potatoes. MKP come out to antagonize them and are held back by every referee.

13:45 Match End | 15:03 Postmatch End

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-49-20/2p8i3/ BV1KK41137KR

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DEC 9 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-live-results-sting-interview-omega-title-win-fallout-327116

The dynamite diamond ring match! Best Friends accompany Orange and hang around ringside along with a group of others to even out the odds as MJF has the entire Inner Circle backing him up. This is a pretty fun match. At the end, Miro comes out to knock Orange out while the ref is preoccupied by ringside chaos, and then MJF takes advantage of this to pin Orange for the win. Best Friends fight with Miro & Kip, but the refs get them away. Miro proceeds to kick the shit out of every security guard.

1:43:36 Orange’s entrance + match start | 1:57:35 Ringside Chaos + Miro Appears

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-50-20/2p8jf/ BV1QK41137mb

unrelated, but MJF has a short promo against Orange at 14:40

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DEC 15 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dark-results-best-friends-vs-chaos-project-shida-vs-king-327711

Best Friends vs Chaos Project fight on this episode of AEW DARK. Miro comes out at the end to yell at them, but the refs keep him away.

1:42:00 Match intro | 1:53:00 Miro Appears

https://youtu.be/7_xHd64xeeQ?t=6171

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DEC 16 2020

https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/results/aew-dynamite-live-results-omega-vs-janela-no-dq-match-327716

(trent had a fight against jericho earlier, and had a staredown with ortiz/santana…)

Best Friends do a promo– They’re unhappy about Miro sabotaging Orange Cassidy, and hear that Kip and Penelope’s wedding date is being announced next week, and warn that they’ll also be at that show.

1:41:20 Promo

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-51-20/2p8ka/ BV1bt4y1k7SC

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DEC 23 2020

Wedding date reveal segment. Best Friends’ intro starts, but its just a prank. They then show Trent being loaded into ambulance.

1:11:00-1:14:55

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-52-20/2p8l5/ BV115411H7PA

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JAN 06 2021

Chuck and Orange give an update on the status of Trent’s injury, Miro and the gang show up. Miro tells Chuck that he needs to stand up for himself instead of hiding behind his friends, or better yet be Miro’s friend and do all his chores. Chuck challenges Miro to a match next week, and Miro accepts with the stipulation that if Chuck loses he’ll have to be his young boy/rookie. Chuck agrees just to get this stupid beef over with faster.

0:24:27-0:26:18

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-01-21/2p8ne/ BV1c54y1s71A

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JAN 13 2021

chuck vs miro. we know who wins– obviously. how would there be a butler segment otherwise?

0:15:20 chuck entrance | 23:02 match ends

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-02-21/2p8oj/ BV1xh411y7XX

You can also just watch the last 3 mins of the match on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vRsizDs838

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JAN 21 2021

We get the Charles Taylor butler reveal during Leyla Hirsch vs Penelope Ford. Orange is in the crowd, rather unhappy. After the match, Miro commands Chuck to enter the the ring and bosses him around. He then forces Chuck to look at Orange in the crowd and say into the mic that Miro is his best friend now.

1:25:22 Penelope Ford Entrance | 1:34:55-1:37:33 Postmatch Promo

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-03-21/2p8pk/ BV14v4y1f7tr

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FEB 03 2021

Miro and Kip have a short backstage promo about being excited for the wedding. Chuck is standing next to them, miserable. Vickie Guerrero then fetches them for the big wedding.

Miro gets Chuck to bring the champagne, then drinks Chuck’s glass cuz he is working. Miro gets mad at the person sized present hanging round the ring. Chuck says its a wedding gift from him. Miro is on to him, and trashes the gift. Chuck cuffs Miro's leg while he isnt looking, then Chuck turns on them. Orange also appears :)

1:00:12 Wedding Stage Setup | 1:00:56 Backstage Promo + Wedding | 1:12:08 Wedding… Ruined | 1:16:23 (segment end)

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-05-21/2p8sj/ BV1vU4y1x7E8

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FEB 10 2021

Recap of last week’s events.

47:35-49:24 MKP's promo, then Orange and Chuck

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-06-21/2p8tp/ BV1ur4y1N7Fd

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FEB 17 2021

Orange Cassidy vs Luther on dynamite. Chuck and Serpentico are ringside. Neither Miro nor Kip Sabian make an appearance.

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FEB 24 2021

Tony Schiavone has an interview with MKP. They’re very very mad about the wedding. Miro wants to beat up Orange. He says he likes Chuck Taylor and wants him to come back and be a butler for him again. Someone gives tony a note. Its one of those little “will u wrestle us at revolution? y/n/maybe :)” asking-someone-out-in-highschool kind of notes. Miro gets mad and says its childish and that Orange Cassidy is such a bad influence on him. But if Chuck comes home he’ll teach him how to be a man. Miro then crumples up the note and eats it, and then spits it back out at Tony.

37:13-39:35 Promo Segment

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-08-21/2p8w5/ BV1cp4y1H7Qv (0:37:25 ?)

alternatively: https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1364752741889900545

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MAR 03 2021

Revolution 2021 Miro + Kip vs Chuck + Orange match announcement, plus a short backstage promo from Miro.

1:43:26 Miro Promo

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-09-21/2p8xm/ BV1MK4y1D737

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MAR 08 2021

The Match At Revolution. feat. a lightly bloodied chuck

1:21:54 Marvez backstage interview w/ Chuck and Orange (that leads into the rest of the match) | 1:33:26 Match End

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-revolution-2021/2p8rn/ BV1Pf4y1t7GL

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MAR 10 2021

Chuck and Orange requests a rematch. Arcade Anarchy!

31:30 Promo Start

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-10-21/2p8zg/ BV1rN411Q7c2

alternatively: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SGY6GgdLJU

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MAR 17 2021

Marvez interviews Miro about how Chuck and Orange challenged them to a rematch. Miro’s not interested, says he is over it. Kip interrupts and says he super isn’t over it, and is mad that Miro doesnt care and also hurt his wife! Kip accepts the rematch.

1:33:27-1:35:01 Backstage Promo

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-11-21/2p90p/ BV1Cf4y1s7uv

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MAR 24 2021

Video package about the upcoming Arcade Anarchy match: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwRMbFy4SU8

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MAR 29 2021

AEW DARK miro shows up at the end of orange/chuck’s match. :O https://youtu.be/d2hjXKRuHVY?t=94

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MAR 31 2021

The Arcade Anarchy match! By pinfall or submission only.

1:39:29 Match Intro / Miro + Kip Entrance | (commercial break) | 1:43:34 Orange + Chuck Entrance

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-13-21/2p93m/ BV1yf4y1x7Kq 1:26:40 (?)

supplemental material for the arcade match lol: https://twitter.com/callmekrisstat/status/1377705137792290821

ah damn wtf hold on the tweet’s deleted. here: https://web.archive.org/web/20210914041200/https://twitter.com/callmekrisstat/status/1377705137792290821

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what happens later?

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APR 07 2021

Best Friends interrupt Death Triangle's in-ring promo and start shit up with them (again):

15:18

https://www.trillertv.com/watch/aew-dynamite-episode-14-21/2p94w/ BV16K411w7Ug 0:16:00 (?)

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APR 14 2021

Kip Sabian is nowhere to be found, which Miro finds pretty annoying! He just wants to talk, cmon. Well, since he can’t find him, he’s moving on to challenging anyone in the company holding gold. https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1382498000484851713

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APR 21 2021

miro promo again: https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1385035045799448585

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APR 26 2021

Kris Statlander started feuding with Penelope Ford, too. Here’s a Road to Dynamite where Chuck, Trent, and Orange support Kris through a promo video package. It’s one of my favorites.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYScNUG1ego

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APR 28 2021

Kip goes to see whats up with Miro :) https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1387583461939101698

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Over the course of 2022 you’ll occasionally see a guy in the crowd with a cardboard box on his head. That’s Kip Sabian, out of kayfabe he was dealing with recovering from a shoulder injury? It lasted a while and when he recovered he came back as a my chemical romance lookin’ dude who may or may not have thought the cardboard box was controlling him? The gimmick didn’t get over so it got dropped pretty fast. He also had a short feud again against Orange Cassidy in 2023 when Orange had the All-Atlantic Championship– he got under Orange’s skin so bad! Anyway thats neither here nor there. Thanks for reading!

[jpivot]

thank you for posting half life (the games) content in 2024. I just finished hl2ep1 for the first time and I love these games so much, but sometimes I feel like there’s not a lot of content that isn’t HVLRAI (love that series, but the original games are so good and I NEED to see how other people draw/interpret it!) in the way of art n such on here, and I just really like this world and these characters (and also like. Some of the best gameplay I’ve ever experienced). Hope you have a good day!

haha thanks! the lack of half life stuff lying around makes sense tho. they're old games. half life 2 episode 2 came out all the way back in 2007, the series has had its heyday loooong ago and a lot of stuff from back then has been lost to time. so, yeah, there's gonna be a lot less of it around nowadays compared to hlvrai. half life alyx came out in 2020 and was absolutely incredible, but it's a vr game and I'm not going to pretend thats not a limiting factor in who can engage with it*

it's honestly staggering how popular hlvrai got over the pandemic, but for better or for worse it was a huge influence in introducing new people to half life and it's the reason why a vast majority of my recent friends got into the series. without having them to talk to about it, I probably wouldnt have drawn as much HL things across the last 4 years myself lol

*ive been a huge half life fan since '06 (oh my god. 🧓) and I didn't have any interest in hl:a because it was a prequel and I wasn't gonna invest in a vr headset anytime soon. it was only when I saw one (1) out of context spoiler about the ending that I went "yo wtf???" and then sought a let's play on youtube, lol

[floatingcatacombs]

Tech So Bad It Sounds Like The Reviewers Are Just Plain Depressed

12 Days of Aniblogging 2024, Day 8

I really do try to stay away from armchair cultural criticism, especially when it's this far removed from my weaboo wheelhouse, but this one’s been eating away at me for the entire year. What are we doing here?

2024 has been full of downright bad consumer tech! The Apple Vision Pro, the Rabbit and Humane AI pins, the PS5 Pro… those are just the big ones, and that’s not even getting started on vaporware like Horizon Worlds and Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC initiative. Sure, there are Juiceros every year, but this recent batch of flops feels indicative of a larger trend, which is shipping products that are both overengineered and conceptually half-baked. Of course, there’s plenty of decent tech coming out too – Apple’s recent laptops and desktops have been strong and competitively priced, at least the base models. The Steam Deck created a whole new product category that seems to be thriving. And electric cars… exist, which is better than nothing. But it’s been much more fun to read about of the bad stuff, of course. These days it feels like most of the tech reviews I read these days have the journalists asking “what’s the point?” halfway through, or asserting in advance that it will fail, like this useless product with a bad value proposition is prompting an existential crisis for them. Maybe it is!

yeah yeah journalists don't write their own headlines. I can assure you that the article content carries the same tone for these though.

What did a negative tech review look like before the 2020s? Maybe there wasn’t one, really. The 2000s and the 2010s were drenched in techno-optimism. Even if skepticism towards social media emerged over time, hardware itself was generally received well, mixed at worst, because journalists were happy to extrapolate out what a product and its platform could do. Nowadays, everyone takes everything at face value! As they should –the things we buy rarely get meaningfully better over time, and the support window for flops is getting shorter and shorter with each passing year. On the games side of things, look how quickly Concord ended! With that out of the way, I’m going to start zeroing in on the hardware I saw a “why does this exist” type review for this year.

The Apple Vision Pro

People have been burnt time and time again by nearly every VR headset ecosystem to release (other than mayyybe Oculus, but Facebook’s tendrils sinking in don’t feel great either). The PSVR was a mild success at best and the PSVR2 was an expensive and unmitigated disaster that lost support in a matter of months. Meanwhile, the Valve Index couldn’t cut it with its price, and Microsoft actively blew up their own HoloLens infrastructure earlier this year. It’s at this point it's clear that VR is a niche, and one that’s expensive to develop for and profit off of.  Surely Apple will save us!

completely isolate yourself from your family for the low, low price of multiple paychecks

With most of the competition focusing on gaming, Apple attempted a blue ocean strategy with the Vision Pro by instead making their target audience… nobody! It’s hard to tell what anyone was ever supposed to do with these things, and reading long-form reviews, it became very clear that the reviewers were trying to come up with viable use-cases and largely failing, because it’s just not very practical tech. There’s no physical input devices, so you’re instead using mix of hand-tracking, eye-tracking, and voice commands to control the thing. That’s pretty cool, but it means that the one niche that VR has been proven in, gaming, is effectively impossible. Things like office software can also be hard to use without a keyboard and mouse, and even when there’s tailor-made headset applications for existing software, it’s still usually not better than just doing it on your desktop!

The tech is real, and that’s the saddest part. Looking at teardowns, I fully believe that the hardware had to cost multiple thousands of dollars to break even, and as someone who suffers from VR motion sickness, I’d be really curious to see if all the stabilization tech from their extra onboard chips helps with that as much as the press releases claim. It’s like a more drastic version of the iPad problem, where the hardware is amazing on paper, but interfacing limits with the form factor itself combined with a subpar operating system mean that you can’t actually do as much as you’d hope to with all that power.

Of course, the Vision Pro is also full of prototype hacks and hard design problems – that battery pack is a nightmare! If it’s a productivity device, how are you supposed to share content with other people when the headset has to be custom-fit every time and there’s only one profile? Apple still has no good answer. That leaves the only available niche for this device as white-collar productivity done in isolation, and most people fundamentally do not live in that world. It feels lonely and dystopic, even.

If I had to guess what happened, the VR division at Apple was working on this for the better part of a decade, and facing headwinds, Apple decided to cut their losses and force them to deliver a project, doomed as it may be. There’s a potent business fantasy of a bad version 1.0 leading to a successful 2.0 and beyond, but Apple has not pulled of that kind of situation in the twenty-first century. It’s either a success or it is a proven failure, and this is so, so, obviously the latter. I do hope that the stabilization tech makes it into other headsets eventually though, so that I can play Blade and Sorcery at my friend’s house without throwing up. Everyone else, please copy Apple’s homework or steal their patents, preferably to the tune of under $3500.

Rabbit R1 and Humane AI Pins

The current AI paradigm has been around for two years now, and since we've all heard way too many arguments already, I will try to keep my own takes brief. The LLM results we have right now are real (even if everyone is trying to dress them up as superintelligent snake oil when they’re just cool computer synthesis), but from everything I read, it seems like the era of drastic improvement is over. It would take exponentially more text and images and video than we already have to get more linear improvements, and a good chunk of the world has already been scraped, and the lawsuits are already pouring in, further slowing down data ingestion. The tech is slowing down, and the industry won’t be able to grow its way out of the hard social problems it’s invoked. If there are gains to be made, it's in more fine-tuned and curated LLMs, and that's far harder work than most of these companies want to get up to right now.

With that out of the way, are you interested in wearing an LLM on your shirt?

The video that notoriously tanked a company. Of course, now I'm also supposed to make fun of this guy for using b-roll of himself speeding in a school zone . Nobody wins.

Not one, but two separate startups pushed this idea to market this year. Humane’s AI pin launched for seven hundred dollars plus a twenty-five dollars per month subscription, all for the privilege of getting to ask a little square on your chest questions and getting GPT answers spoken back to you. But what about like… ChatGPT’s own phone app? Or hell, even Siri! Apple and Android’s voice assistants are both are over a decade old– do you really have that many ungoogleable queries? And specifically, ones that voice responses make the most sense for, and not text? To make things worse, this thing has serious overheating issues and a battery that can’t even last a day. The Rabbit R1 at least has a cute design, and actually has a screen, and is much cheaper, but it requires a data tether to your phone, so like…why not just use your phone. Reverse-engineering has confirmed that its app can just run on a normal Android phone, so there’s really nothing special other than the little orange square that it’s hosted in.

Why would you even try to roll out a product as doomed as these, instead of just going bankrupt and pocketing a year or two of salary like most startups? The AI boom, of course! After the NFT hype cycle, everyone really did convince themselves that you can just fail upwards with no real limit. Unfortunately, people have higher standards for hardware than PNG transaction platforms, as they get far more upset when they’re left physically holding the bag. I’ve been watching Deep Space 9 recently and have to ask, are these companies trying to capture the fantasy of Star Trek comms badges? Because if so, they should honestly lean more into it. It wouldn't be any more functional of a product, but if there’s one thing nerds always love, it’s themed garbage.

welp

The PS5 Pro

This one just launched a bit ago for the holiday season. It makes some sense on paper – most PS5 games offer a choice between a performance and a fidelity mode, so why not just make a version strong enough that it can get the benefits of both? Great! That’ll be seven hundred dollars.

Okay, $700 doesn’t sound as insane in the context of that Humane pin I was just talking about. But it’s $200 more than the PS5 at launch, and it doesn’t even come with a disc drive unless you want to fork over another $80. The past few generations of gaming have been defined by heavily subsidized console prices with the goal of roping gamers into more lucrative ecosystems, but Sony here seems to be testing the waters for an unsubsidized era.

I've heard the external disc drive install process is surprisingly user-friendly, but at this price point they should have included a little automaton who does it for you

If you can stomach PC gaming, at that price you’re halfway there to buying something that could trounce a PS5 Pro, plus a monitor close enough to your face that you might actually notice the 4K improvements. There are also only a couple of games per year being produced at high enough fidelity for there to be any noticeable quality improvements. The returns are diminishing and the AAA landscape is narrowing, and console upgrades like these only hasten the industry’s spiraling. Is all this sustainable from a development perspective? I don’t know. If Nintendo announced a Mario Odyssey sequel for the Switch 2, I’d buy it at launch regardless of the graphics, and my PS3 can play Demon's Souls and my anime blu-rays just fine. So I’m well aware that I’m not the target audience for stuff like the PS5 Pro, but I think it's going to become harder and harder to compel that audience going forward.

_

The end of the low interest rates in US has drastically changed the underpinnings of its tech industry, and I think every one of these bad product launches can be traced back here one way or another. The era of running flashy ventures at a loss for years in order to corner the market is profoundly over, unless you’ve got Thiel blood money or a GPT transformer, and even then. This, combined with the end of quarantine-era user habits, has left many companies to repeatedly go all in on hype cycles like blockchain and the metaverse and AI, pretending like the last one never happened every time. This trend-chasing means, that depending on each company’s circumstances, they need to either spin something up quick, reroute an existing prototype, or risk delivering laughably late. You need a product and you need it fast. And rushed tech is always going to have load-bearing and stupid problems, no matter how long the initial development time was. Everyone loses, especially the saps who actually believe in the sales pitches enough to buy these things. And those poor, poor tech journalists who have to review it all are being consumed with eldritch madness watching this all unfold. Hey, at least they’re not trying to simp for Microsoft Copilot!

Hopefully, this particular era of tech ends sooner rather than later, so that I don’t feel compelled to do another essay of this type. If I were more of an idealist or a doofus I’d be dreaming of a serious anticonsumerist movement and/or Xi Jinping liberating us all, but unfortunately I’m of the belief that we’re doomed to dumbass gizmos destined for the landfill until the end of the silicon era.

[cyberpunkonline]

The Best Halloween-Themed Games on PC Today: Spooky Digital Delights for #CyberSamhain

Alright, PC gamers, it’s time to dim the lights, crank up your gaming rig, and dive into the creepiest, most terrifying games this side of a hard drive for #CyberSamhain. Sure, we’ve left the days of 8-bit ghosts and ghouls behind, but PC horror has stepped up its game in a big way—seriously, the jump scares now are next-level. Whether you’re into psychological horror, grotesque monsters, or just wanna creep through haunted mansions with nothing but a flashlight, there’s something here to make your Halloween one to remember.

So, grab your headset and your snack of choice (maybe skip the heart-attack-inducing energy drink for these), and get ready to scream at your monitor. Let’s check out the best spooky-themed PC games you should be playing right now.

1. Phasmophobia (2020) If ghost-hunting reality shows and your fear of things going bump in the night had a terrifying lovechild, Phasmophobia would be it. This multiplayer co-op game has you and your friends investigating haunted locations, trying to figure out what kind of spirit is messing with you. Sounds fun, right? Well, until you’re the one standing alone in a dark hallway, watching your breath fog up while a ghost whispers in your ear. This game is straight-up nightmare fuel, and the scariest part? It’s unpredictable. One second you’re laughing with your mates, the next, you’re screaming as the lights flicker and something moves behind you.

Resource: Rock Paper Shotgun has a killer (pun intended) guide on Phasmophobia—check it out for pro ghost-hunting tips and tricks.

2. Resident Evil Village (2021) No Halloween gaming list is complete without a Resident Evil title, and Resident Evil Village is one of the best ways to freak yourself out in glorious HD. You play as Ethan Winters (again), wandering through a remote village filled with creepy castles, werewolf-like monsters, and the internet’s favorite tall vampire lady. The atmosphere in this game is off the charts, from the snow-covered ruins to the eerie castle halls. And trust me, the scares? Yeah, they’re there. Whether you’re fending off a swarm of creatures or just trying to survive the creepy-as-hell doll house section, Village knows how to keep your heart racing.

Resource: Head over to IGN’s review of Resident Evil Village for an in-depth look at why it’s perfect for a Halloween scare-fest.

3. Little Nightmares II (2021) If you’re into creepy visuals and dark fairy-tale vibes, Little Nightmares II is an absolute must-play. This puzzle-platformer has you controlling a tiny, raincoat-wearing character in a nightmarish world where everything wants to kill you. The unsettling atmosphere is paired with grotesque enemies that’ll have you on the edge of your seat. It’s not gory—it’s just unnerving in that “things are very wrong here” way. If Tim Burton made a video game, this would be it. The art style is gorgeous, the sound design is chilling, and the puzzles will keep you glued to the screen until you escape this horrific world (if you can).

Resource: GameSpot has a fantastic piece on Little Nightmares II, explaining why it’s the perfect creepy game to play alone with the lights off.

4. The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes (2021) Love interactive horror movies where your decisions actually matter? Then the Dark Pictures Anthology is calling your name, and House of Ashes is the latest chapter in this spine-tingling series. Set during the Iraq war, a group of soldiers stumbles upon an ancient underground temple, and guess what? It’s not empty. You’ll guide them through this terrifying labyrinth while making decisions that can lead to either their survival or some truly horrifying deaths. This one is all about atmosphere, tension, and those sweet, sweet jump scares. Plus, it’s a game best played with friends, thanks to the online multiplayer mode that’ll have you arguing about who just got everyone killed.

Resource: Check out Polygon’s breakdown of the entire Dark Pictures Anthology series to get all the background you need before diving into House of Ashes.

5. Dead by Daylight (2016) If you haven’t been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of Dead by Daylight. It’s the ultimate multiplayer horror game where you either play as one of four survivors or as the killer who’s trying to hunt them down. With a variety of different killers to choose from (including classics like Ghostface, Michael Myers, and more), every match feels like a terrifying game of cat and mouse. And survivors? Yeah, you’re going to be running, hiding, and screaming as you try to repair generators and escape the map before the killer finds you. It’s an adrenaline rush, pure and simple. Also, the devs keep adding new content, so it’s never boring.

Resource: PC Gamer has an excellent guide on how to survive in Dead by Daylight—trust me, you’ll need it.

6. Visage (2020) Looking for a psychological horror game that’ll mess with your mind? Visage is the kind of game that you play with the lights on and a backup pair of underwear nearby. Set in an old, creepy house, you’ll be exploring rooms filled with paranormal activity, strange noises, and freaky occurrences that will leave you questioning what’s real and what isn’t. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the pacing is perfect for slowly building up to those terrifying moments. If you loved the P.T. demo (RIP Silent Hills), then Visage will scratch that same haunted house itch.

Resource: For a detailed breakdown of why Visage will make you sleep with the lights on, head over to TechRaptor’s review of the game.

7. Amnesia: Rebirth (2020) Amnesia: Rebirth takes everything you loved (or feared) about the original Amnesia and cranks it up. Set in the Algerian desert, you play as Tasi Trianon, trying to survive the horrors lurking in a forgotten underground temple while slowly unraveling your past. Expect plenty of dark, claustrophobic spaces, disturbing creatures, and puzzles that’ll leave you with sweaty palms. This game is a slow burn, but the payoff is worth it, especially if you like your horror with a healthy dose of “oh my god, what was that sound?”

Resource: Eurogamer has a great piece on why Amnesia: Rebirth is the perfect mix of psychological horror and puzzle-solving fun.

Final Thoughts So, there you have it, ghouls and gamers—the best Halloween-themed PC games to spook up your #CyberSamhain celebrations. Whether you’re hunting ghosts with your mates, battling vampires, or creeping through haunted houses all by your lonesome, these games are guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Just remember to keep your speakers turned up and your lights down low—after all, it’s not really Halloween unless you’re terrified.

Now, get out there, boot up your PC, and let’s make this #CyberSamhain one to remember! Just don’t blame me when you scream so loud the neighbors think you're being haunted.

[sherrifdoggo]

The Map's Setting, A History

Long Talky One Again, this time it's gonna get autobiographical.

So, as i've eluded to in the past, the map (rp_chicago, see previous posts) is not say in our 1930s. It's set in my funny lore setting that i've been cultivating for the past few years that even though has had more abandonded projects tied to it than i can count still doesn't have a name that isn't a working title.

Ladies, Gentlemen and Etceras, It is my honor to present my baby to the world,

The Staten Island Universe

Yes the name sucks and makes you ask more questions than a title should, but there's a fun story behind the bizarre name i promise. Anyways here i go.

The beginings of the Staten Island universe started back in my highschool days, when i used to DM some D&D for a big friend group i had. One day, after playing too much Grand Theft Auto on my PS4 (This was in 2017? or so i think), i had a moment where the stars aligned.

What if i made a D&D campaign set in a modern crime story, without removing all the D&D elements.

And so it was, i never finished it, but we did play an unfinished version of it a couple times and it was very enjoyable. Specially the quest where you had to kill a bard with an electric guitar in the abandoned times square toys-r-us.

Unluckly, me sucking at math caused my grades to slump and now i had less time to make more D&D shit, and ended up throwing the whole project away in the dreaded vault of dead projects.

Now skipping ahead a couple years and it's my last semester of high school, in 2020. So i'm locked in my room pretending to be paying attention to whatever the teacher was saying (maybe related to my slumped grades from above) and making a new D&D campaign that my friends and i were gonna run over the internet this time. The plot of it was unimportant but what was important was my recent (at the time) acquisition of my current computer and a vr headset.

Before i got the VR headset, and around the time I upgraded from a ok-ish Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop to this thing, i was making a really shit gmod map.

Stallen Island i called it,

and it was my headcannon version of what the missing part of New York City (Staten Island) would look like in GTA IV's map, of course with nowhere near the amount of skill and art-direction to pull it off in fucking Gmod, but i tried my best.

Eventually i got bored of making this map, and/or ran out of ideas for it so i receded into doing whatever it is i did for fun back then. Until my high school friends contacted me over the internet.

They wanted to play some more D&D over the internet, so i obliged. I made them a new campaign and had a silly little idea for it. What if all the maps for it were actually gmod maps instead of PNGs.

These are my only published maps, The D&D map collection.

Info about them individually on their pictures, but i did actually get to play it with them and they enjoyed it very much.

But...

Around the same time i had finally gotten my VR Headset. And i'd been playing a lot of Skyrim VR, which influenced the design of this D&D campaign. Specifically I inserted my Khajiit into it, Mr. Ralasajeeno as a Theif.

But all this is just autobiographical shit right what does this have to do with the big name you put in yellow up there?

Well one night i was writting more shit for the campaign when it hit like how the best ideas hit you, blasting directly into your brain at 3AM.

I remembered the other D&D campaign again, and i revived it as a really big design doc i still have on my computer for a open world crime sandbox game that plays like a mix of GTA and D&D / Skyrim, A.K.A. a game that would cost too much time and money for me to ever make.

Every day, i would wake up and add more and more lore, characters, ideas for situations, missions, locations, items and it would grow so god damn big that eventually i felt like i had to make something for it.

So i had an idea, how about i make a new version of that map i mentioned earlier.

It's name was Staten Island, and it fucking rocked

Staten Island was the biggest map i ever made, and i never really finished it.

Not because of a lack of ideas, because i had plenty of ideas for it, i just outgrew it. Though it forever holds a part in my heart as the map that really kickstarted the Staten Island Universe as it's own thing. Many of the things written down in the lore for it are direct from either me needing assets for the map or questions people would ask while playing on it.

Afterwards there were a couple more Modern Staten Island Universe maps. Pictures Here:

Finally, how does Chicago fit into all this?

Well after a really long time of making smaller maps that didn't go anywhere, making other types of addons and being a support dev for other people's addons, i finally had a good idea for a map again.

This map was the current map, Chicago.

I had the idea while playing lots of Mafia: Definitive Edition a couple months back and having a grand old time.

I always wanted to do something in the past of the Staten Island Universe, so the idea was to make this map and then make a couple more maps.

Each map would pick a different time period and location, moving slowly towards today. Chicago is step one of this plan and unlike all these other maps, i do intend on sticking with this one all the way to the finish line.

trust me bro, i swear

please trust me

[aardmananimations]

News as of 18 February 2023

Film & Television

Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget

Exclusive Netflix release 10 November 2023

More on the release from Aardman

Wallace & Gromit - Untitled Film

Expected 2024

It will premiere exclusively on Netflix

UK release will debut first on the BBC

More on the release from Aardman

Video Games

The Grand Getaway

A brand-new Wallace & Gromit VR adventure from Aardman, Meta Quest, and Atlas V

Interactive, narrative-led, single player

‘The Grand Getaway’ will be launched on Meta Quest 2, the all-in-one VR headset, enabling users for the first time to walk around, explore and get hands-on (or paws-on!) within the world of Wallace & Gromit, and truly be a part of the pair’s adventures

Launches this year (2023) on the Oculus Store

More on the release from Aardman

Bandai Namco Partnership

Aardman partnered with Bandai Namco in 2020 “to create a brand new IP which will cover a wide range of mediums, including video games. The two companies have said that the agreement will span multiple projects, and the first will exist "across multiple media."” (Nintendo Life)

Suggests projects could be released across mobile, PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch

Untitled Real Time Stealth Game

A current job listing by Aardman (applications close 28 Feb 2023, contract ends April 2024) details a new project that will first launch on mobile, followed closely by PC and other platforms. They state:

“At the moment, we’re working with a major publisher on a new project based on one our best loved IPs. Even when working with IPs, our number one priority is always to create games that are inventive, creative, and unique in their own right – so that people who have never heard of the characters would still want to play it.

Our new project is a real time stealth game. It takes the strategic, tense fun of stealth games and blends it with frenetic, chaotic mechanics to create a unique player experience.”

Untitled 3D Open World Game

According to a previous Aardman job listing spotted by TechRadar in 2022, a new 3D Action-Adventure Open World game is also in development, being made in Unreal Engine 5, but the game is not yet officially announced or titled

From an article by TechRadar:

“The game will focus on “inventive mechanics and compelling characters”, according to several job listings on the studio’s website, and is described as a “mad, open-world” game that sits within the “3D action-adventure genre”.

The job adverts make heavy mention of the game’s original IP and world-building, with the team looking to create “amazing, hilarious, surprising and varied characters” with defined lore. Elsewhere, the game is described as featuring a narrative focus, and the same “humor, love and craftsmanship” that Aardman’s animations have become known for.”

30 Years of Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers

A Grand Way Out

A brand-new Wallace & Gromit-themed escape room in Bristol, UK. The locked room adventure has been piloted at Locked In A Room, Bristol’s largest escape game experience located in the heart of the city on Millennium Square, and two further rooms will open in March 2023

Aardman Exhibition - London’s Cartoon Museum

The Aardman exhibition at the Cartoon Museum in London will open in September 2023 with an exciting never-before-seen exhibition running until April 2024

Live Orchestra

30 performances of The Wrong Trousers with live orchestral accompaniment, staged by Carrot Productions, taking place all over the UK to mark 30 years since the film’s release

More about the plethora of releases for the 30th Anniversary by Aardman

Other

Obey the Clay, a new party game by Aardman in partnership with Big Potato games, where two teams use their clay to complete Aardman-inspired challenges as fast as they can. Read more on Brands Untapped

Star Wars collaboration - Star Wars: Visions has announced its slate for season two, including a collaboration with Wallace and Gromit creators Aardman Animations. Read more on DigitalSpy

[academicblog2]

Writing horror in VR with phasmophobia

Introduction

VR or virtual reality, is, at its very core, "a technology that can create a complete environment or world for the user to experience" (Cisneros et al., 2019). This basically means that its a medium for the storyteller to recreate the entire world in a separate virtual dimension. This virtual dimension can then be accessed by users using a virtual headset and depending on the extent of immersion the storyteller wants the user to feel, they can also be hooked to other immersive mediums like haptic suit, temperature control, etc.

Virtual reality is a very different kind of storytelling medium because, unlike other mediums, VR doesn't make your consciousness interpret the medium, instead, it makes our consciousness the medium. (Smith, 2024). This makes it a perfect medium to host a genre like horror as fear is something way more than the cheap jumpscares and sfx we see in today's day and age. Fear is about buildup, its one of the most primitive human emotions. And no other game takes more advantage of this than "Phasmophobia."

Phasmophobia is an indie horror game developed by a small British studio called Knetic games. It was released on early access in September 2020, and it quickly rose to popularity thanks to its immersiveness. It won the title of best debut game in 2020 by the "game awards".

This blog will analyze how "phasmophobia" achieved this level of success and how VR was used as an extension of human consciousness to achieve this feat.

Overview

In Phasmophibia, immersion is the key selling point as the player takes on the role of a paranormal investigator who is tasked with exploring several different haunted places and identifying the types of ghosts that haunt that particular place. These haunted locations work as a perfect setup for Virtual immersion, as the developers use the eerie atmosphere to their advantage by adding several physical interactions like footsteps, creaking of doors, using flashlights, etc, which are actions that require physical participation and this physical participation makes the player directly responsible for the consequences of their actions, making it more creepy and real.

And this aligns with the research done by Zhang H and their colleagues in a paper named "Decoding Fear: Exploring User Experiences in Virtual Reality, Horror Games" where they found that the virtual reality media of horror games automatically added a layer of fear response amongst the participants even before they started playing the game, especially during night or when alone. (Zhang et al., 2024).

Mechanics of Manipulating Players

As we already know, horror in VR is heavily relied on the interplay of feelings of being in control and helplessness. Phasmophobia has mastered this approach by making players responsible for each one of their actions, giving them choices and inciting a sense of authority within them, while also confronting them with unpredictable and uncontrollable events which often and not are the direct results of the actions a player deliberately and independently takes.

Some of the key techniques phasmophobia uses to master this approach are;

Audio Design- The soundspace of this game has been meticulously perfected with things like proximity chat, footsteps, muffled whispers, electronic distortions, etc creating a sense of omnipresent dread making players feel like they are never alone. Even the silence within the game is quite loud, as it is littered with a plethora of other background sounds like breathing, doors creaking, etc. This makes the player question every sound they encounter, making them ask the question of "Was that me or my friend, or did this sound come from somewhere else?"

Environment Design- Phasmobhobia uses claustrophobic settings to incite a sense of preexisting fears the players have, It uses locations like abandoned cabins and narrow hallways to further distance the player from any sense of safety and make them feel more alone and trapped. The limited field of view in VR headsets amplifies these effects, forcing players to confront their fears head-on.

Dynamic AI- The game's ghosts are governed by an AI that reacts to the player's behaviours, including spoken words, these reactions are according to the behaviours mention in the ghost book which is a guide that players use to find the type of ghost within a mission. But this, at the same time makes players directly responsible for any hauntings or deaths that happens. as for example shade is a type of ghost in phasmophobia who only responds to people when they are alone, so now its on the player to decide to go alone in the haunted place to get answers from the the ghost. They can totally skip it and use other clues to get to their objective but this choice is ultimately given to the player.

Drawbacks of using VR in horror setup

While VR can surely increase player's sensation in playing horror games making it feel more real, interesting, tense, and even scary (Armanto, Anthony, and Pickerling, 2021). It is also true that using Virtual Reality comes with its own set of drawbacks most notably of which is the motion sickness and dizziness caused by wearing headsets for a long period of time (Armanto, Anthony, and Pickerling, 2021). And this is particularly important for horror games because of the heavy reliance on lights and character motion as a part of storytelling.

Conclusion

Phasmophobia highlights the unique capabilities of VR to redefine the horror genre. By using immersion, interactivity, and social dynamics, as a tool to empower its story, the game creates a deeply engaging experience that challenges traditional notions of fear and entertainment. As VR continues to blur the lines between reality and fiction, the study of its psychological and cultural implications will remain a vital area of inquiry, plus we need more studies into the effects of individual elements of phasmophobia and how it affects its user in both a virtual reality setting and a normal Desktop setting. Plus there is a dire need to have increase the research being done on the motion sickness affects of a virtual reality setup, as we need to segregate and eliminate all factors contributing to the said adverse effects. For now, Phasmophobia works as an excellent case study and a testament to the potentials of VR in one of the most challenging genres in modern media.

References

Armanto, H., Anthony, G. and Pickerling, C., 2021. Implementation and Impact of Virtual Reality on Survival Horror Games. [Publisher/Journal if known]. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353614055_Implementation_and_Impact_of_Virtual_Reality_on_Survival_Horror_Games [Accessed 16 Dec. 2024].

Cisneros, A., Maravilla, M., Murray, B., Scretching, D., Stoddard, A. and Redmiles, E.M., 2019. Defining Virtual Reality: Insights from Research and Practice. [Publisher/Journal if known]. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332201962_Defining_virtual_reality_Insights_from_research_and_practice [Accessed 16 Dec. 2024].

Smith, M., 2024. VR Storytelling. In: Proceedings of the International Moving Image Cultures Conference (IMOVICCON 2023, pp.137). Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379636493_VR_Storytelling [Accessed 16 Dec. 2024].

Zhang, H., Li, X., Qiu, C. and Fu, X., 2024. Decoding Fear: Exploring User Experiences in Virtual Reality Horror Games. Proceedings of the ACM SIGCHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, pp.1-12. Available at: https://dl-acm-org.ezproxy.herts.ac.uk/doi/pdf/10.1145/3629606.3629646 [Accessed 16 Dec. 2024].

[techytoolzataclick]

Top Tech Gadgets of 2024

With the world of technology moving at a rate faster than ever before, 2024 has been introduced to many new tech advancements which are bound to change our lifestyles forever. As tech enthusiasts, we have every reason to be excited about what 2020 has in store for us — from cutting-edge AI-driven devices, all the way up to ground breaking advancements in wearable tech this year is going to be a game changer. Check out these tech gadgets that have got us excited for 2024!

1. AI-Powered Smart Glasses

Smart Glasses 2024 — AI-powered glasses reach their tipping point At this point, the glasses go beyond augmented reality (AR) and incorporate AI that delivers real-time translations, facial recognition as well as health monitoring. That is a tall order — one that the likes of tech companies Google and Apple are beginning to meet by launching models so stylishly glamorous for tech aficionados.

2. Wearable Health Devices on the Rise Anymore Next-Gen

Wearable devices have gotten smarter in terms of health detection, providing an overall glimpse into your general well-being. Now even the smartwatches and fitness bands are designed with AI algorithms that can anticipate when you might lose your health before it’s too late as well. With that said, who can deny the fact with each new minute detailed alert more health conscious individual will put a device like this on their wrist since all you need to know is how high your blood sugar level or if you’re under a little too stress?

3. Foldable Smartphones

Foldable smartphones have come a long way and are now more reliable, durable and efficient in terms of functionality. Samsung and Huawei are two brands that have pushed hard to introduce devices which take the convenience of a smartphone, then pair it with the screen real estate you expect from a tablet. The gear is a great accessory for anyone who wants to do everything on their device.

4. AI-Enhanced Home Assistants

The home assistances have turned into intellectual and more instinctive. The new Amazon and Google models take advantage of state-of-the art AI, which continually learns over time to understand user needs better than ever before. Now, you can say that they follow voice commands to power on/off various smart home devices, provide appropriate recommendations specifically for person asking and also show out of ordinary activities so as to make everything extra-safe.

5. Advanced VR Headsets

In 2024, VR technology went to the next level. The next-generation of VR headsets have ultra-HD displays, better motion tracking and are more immersive to use. Today, VR has become a powerful tool for entertaining and productive purposes with people such as from gamers & professionals that companies like Oculus and Sony introduce models to fulfil both needs.

6. AI-Driven Personal Robots

Household robots are more available and practical than ever before. Helping out with all this will be these AI-driven companions for cooking and cleaning, escort services as well as helping children learn online. Engineered by brands such as Anki and SoftBank Robotics, these are some of the most features-rich yet user-friendly models available for families on a budget.

7. Smart Home Security Systems

The best ideas in home security are new and innovative smart systems. These devices employ AI to monitor video for different uncommon behaviour/actions and send notifications with Sincere action every time it happens Systems that play nice with other smart home devices also offer a more comprehensive security solution, and companies like Ring and Nest have made the most use of those connections.

8. Eco-Friendly Tech Gadgets

In 2024, sustainability is in full force and multiple tech companies make eco-friendly gadgets. The market for solar-powered chargers, energy-efficient smart home devices and gadgets made from recycled materials is on the rise. New technologies also help minimize harm to nature and are favoured by a growing number of green-oriented consumers.

Conclusion

2024 TECH- The tech landscape of 2024 is replete with landmarks set to change our lives. Today's tech trends include something for everyone, like AI-powered smart glasses and eco-friendly gadgets to roam around the town. When you are so into tech, setting an eye on these advancements may place well ahead of the curve and thereby let you take decision with gadgets which suits your taste the best.

[vrwaved]

✍📖Meta Quest 3 Lens for Players| VR WAVE📖✍

Antony founded VR WAVE in 2020 and is privileged to improve the VR experiences of customers from over 80+ countries and territories. Antony focuses heavily on the customer’s experience and is dedicated to providing a wow experience to all customers of VR WAVE.

👉Better Visual Quality

The most obvious benefit of upgrading the Meta Quest 3 lens is that it will improve the visual quality of the games. The original lenses were known for their low-quality visuals, which made it difficult to immerse yourself in the game. Upgrading to higher-quality lenses will improve the visuals, making it easier to immerse yourself in the game.

👉Better Comfort

Another benefit of upgrading the Meta Quest 3 lens is that it will increase comfort. The original lenses were known for being uncomfortable, and some users even experienced eye strain after using it for long periods of time. Upgrading to better lenses will reduce eye strain and make it much more comfortable to use the headset for long periods of time.

At VR-Wave Store, we are dedicated to providing top-notch virtual reality products that cater to both beginners and seasoned VR enthusiasts. Our curated selection includes cutting-edge VR headsets, immersive games, interactive experiences, and essential accessories, all designed to deliver unparalleled immersion and entertainment.

Whether you’re looking to explore breathtaking virtual worlds, enhance your gaming experience, or delve into educational simulations, VR-Wave Store has something for everyone. With a commitment to quality and innovation, we strive to bring you the best in virtual reality technology, ensuring an unforgettable and immersive experience every time you step into the virtual realm.👈

[booonblog]

Demystifying Xbox Cloud Gaming: How It Works and What You Need to Know

Cloud gaming has revolutionized the way we experience video games. With Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly known as Project xCloud), you can play your favorite Xbox games without needing a console or high-end PC. Let’s dive into how it works and what you need to get started.

What Is Xbox Cloud Gaming?

Xbox Cloud Gaming allows you to stream console-quality games directly to your devices over the internet. Whether you’re on your smartphone, tablet, or even a smart TV, you can access a library of games without the need for local hardware. Here’s how it all comes together:

Game Servers in the Cloud: Microsoft maintains powerful servers in data centers around the world. These servers run Xbox games and handle all the heavy lifting.

Streaming Technology: When you launch a game, the server processes the game and streams the audio and video to your device. Your inputs (button presses, joystick movements) are sent back to the server.

Low Latency: The key to a good cloud gaming experience is low latency. Microsoft optimizes its servers and network infrastructure to minimize delays between your actions and the game’s response.

How to Get Started

1. Game Pass Ultimate Membership

To access Xbox Cloud Gaming, you’ll need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership. This subscription combines Xbox Live Gold, Xbox Game Pass for console, and Xbox Game Pass for PC

2. Compatible Devices

Xbox Cloud Gaming is available on various devices:

Android Phones and Tablets: Download the Xbox Game Pass mobile app (version 6.0 or greater) and start playing.

Windows PCs: Use the Xbox app for Windows PC to discover, download, and play games.

Xbox Consoles: Play directly on your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One.

Samsung Smart TVs: Stream Xbox games on select 2020 and newer Samsung smart TVs.

Meta Quest VR Headsets: Play on a virtual 2D display without needing a TV or console.

3. Controller Readiness

You can use an Xbox Wireless Controller, a Sony DualShock 4, or other compatible controllers. Touch controls are also available for supported games.

4. High-Speed Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is crucial for smooth gameplay. Aim for at least 10 Mbps download speed for the best experience.

What About Keyboard and Mouse?

As of now, Xbox Cloud Gaming primarily supports controllers. While some games may work with touch controls, keyboard and mouse input isn’t universally available. Microsoft is continually improving the service, so keep an eye out for updates.

Is It Worth It?

Xbox Cloud Gaming is perfect for gaming on the go. Whether you’re waiting for a friend at a café or relaxing in your backyard, you can dive into your favorite games. It’s not a replacement for local gaming setups, but it’s a fantastic addition to your gaming arsenal.

So, grab your controller, connect to the cloud, and let the gaming adventure begin! 🎮🌐

[pranay-bansal-digital-media]

Digital Media: Sources and Significance | Blog Post #10

Virtual reality games and the immersive experience of Half-Life: Alyx

Virtual reality has come a long way since it was first created. Even though it has been around since the 1950s, it is a lot different now compared to what it was during its initial years.

It has slowly integrated itself into various types of media. Arguably, the biggest of which is gaming.

VR gaming was massive when it first started making a name for itself, and the technology around it has only gotten better with time. From simple headsets with mobile phone slots, only made for a unique visual experience, to the sophisticated Oculus VR and the immersive games it has nowadays.

Half-Life is a video game series loved by the gaming community, and it’s spinoff, Half-Life: Alyx is another gaming experience loved by those who played it. Only this time, its a VR experience.

It combines various genres of video games like shooters, puzzles and linear exploration extremely well and fits it all into a nice VR experience. It makes great use of the technology of the Oculus VR and the movement tracking technology to give us one of the best VR gaming experiences till date. The attention to detail given to the environment in the game is really impressive, and adds a lot to the believability of its digital world.

The game however, does not attempt to be realistic at all. It is solely meant for the purpose of entertainment and it excels at that greatly. It completely immerses the player in its world and the gameplay loop it introduces with the help of the anti-gravity gloves its many other features.

Although, a lot of people speculate on the positive influence of VR on modern society and how it affects the youth and their social and professional life, Half-Life: Alyx is definitely a very big influence on VR entertainment and will definitely help the technology move forward in the coming years.

Citations:

Iberdrola (2023). Virtual Reality, The Technology Of The Future. [online] Iberdrola. Available at: https://www.iberdrola.com/innovation/virtual-reality

Ono (2020). A VR Retrospective – Half-Life: Alyx Review. [online] Post Reflections. Available at: https://postreflect.wordpress.com/2020/05/07/half-life-alyx-review/

[govindhtech]

Samsung New ISOCELL Vizion Sensors for Robotics and XR

Two new ISOCELL Vizion sensors the global shutter sensor, the ISOCELL Vizion 931, and the time-of-flight (ToF) sensor, the ISOCELL Vizion 63D were unveiled today by Samsung Electronics, a global pioneer in innovative semiconductor technology. Samsung’s ISOCELL Vizion family, which was first unveiled in 2020, consists of ToF and global shutter sensors made expressly to provide visual capabilities for a wide range of next-generation mobile, commercial, and industrial use cases.

Haechang Lee, Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics‘ Next Generation Sensor Development Team, stated, “With their cutting-edge sensor technologies, Samsung’s ISOCELL Vizion 63D and ISOCELL Vizion 931 will be essential in facilitating machine vision for future high-tech applications like robotics and extended reality (XR).” Utilizing their extensive background in technological innovation, they are dedicated to propelling the swiftly growing image sensor industry forward.

ToF sensors estimate depth and distance by timing the duration of light emission from an item to its location, much like bats do with echolocation.

In particular, Samsung’s ISOCELL Vizion 63D is an indirect ToF (iToF) sensor that senses its environment in three dimensions by measuring the phase difference between emitted and reflected light. The Vizion 63D is perfect for high-resolution and accurate depth measuring applications such as facial verification, XR devices, and industrial and service robots. Its remarkable accuracy and clarity make it an excellent choice.

The first iToF sensor in the market with an integrated depth-sensing hardware image signal processor (ISP) is the ISOCELL Vizion 63D. It can accurately record 3D depth information without the assistance of a second chip thanks to its novel one-chip design, which allows for a 40% decrease in system power consumption over the previous ISOCELL Vizion 33D product. Additionally, the sensor can process images at up to 60 frames per second at QVGA resolution (320 x 240), an extremely popular display resolution in the business and industrial sectors.

The ISOCELL Vizion 63D obtains high Video Graphics Array (VGA) resolution (640×480) within a 1/6.4″ optical format, which makes it a perfect fit for small, portable devices. It is based on the industry’s smallest 3.5 pixel size in iToF sensors.

The Vizion 63D sensor has the highest degree of quantum efficiency in the industry, reaching 38% at an infrared light wavelength of 940 nanometers (nm), thanks to backside scattering technology (BST), which improves light absorption. This makes it possible to have less noise and more light sensitivity, which leads to sharper images with less motion blur.

Additionally, the ISOCELL Vizion 63D’s measurable distance range has been greatly increased from five meters to ten thanks to the support for both flood (high-resolution at short range) and spot (long-range) lighting modes.

Optimized to Capture Dynamic Movements Without Distortion: ISOCELL Vizion 931

A global shutter image sensor designed to capture fast motions without the “jello effect” is the ISOCELL Vizion 931. Global shutter sensors, which mimic human vision, capture the entire image at once or “globally,” in contrast to rolling shutter sensors, which scan the scene line by line from top to bottom in a “rolling” motion. Due to its ability to capture clear, distorted images of moving objects, the ISOCELL Vizion 931 is a great choice for motion-tracking applications in XR gadgets, gaming systems, robotic service and logistics, and drones.

With its one-to-one ratio VGA resolution (640 x 640) design, the ISOCELL Vizion 931 is the best option for iris identification, eye tracking, and facial and gesture detection in head-mounted display devices like XR headsets because it fits more pixels into a smaller form factor.

In addition, the ISOCELL Vizion 931 delivers an astounding 60% quantum efficiency at 850nm infrared light wavelength the highest level in the industry. This achievement was made feasible by combining the BST technique employed in the ISOCELL Vizion 63D with Front Deep Trench Isolation (FDTI), which inserts an insulating layer between pixels to increase light absorption.

With the help of multi-drop, which the Vizion 931 offers, up to four cameras may be easily connected to the application processor with just one wire. The sensor gives gadget manufacturers more design options because it requires less wire.

Sensors from Samsung, the ISOCELL Vizion 63D and ISOCELL Vizion 931, are now being sampled by OEMs overseas.

Read more on Govindhtech.com

[moremedtech]

Augmedics raises $82.5 million Series D for AR spine surgery system

Augmedics raises $82.5 million Series D for AR spine surgery system. CPMG and Evidity Health Capital join syndicate of US and Israeli investors Augmedics also marks 4,000-patient milestone with xvision AR surgery platform Chicago - Augmedics, a pioneer in augmented reality (AR) surgical navigation, today announced the successful close of an $82.5 million Series D financing. The round was led by Dallas-based CPMG and adds Evidity Health Capital as a syndicate partner, with participation from current investors H.I.G. Capital, Revival Healthcare Capital, Almeda Ventures and others. The news comes the same week the company marks its record 4,000th US patient treated with the xvision Spine System® which uses augmented reality to give surgeons “x-ray vision” during surgery. The funds will support Augmedics’ rapidly expanding US commercial footprint as well as the delivery of next-generation platform advancements which will enable mass-scale adoption of the xvision technology. +4,000 patients & counting: paving the way in the growing field of AR spine surgery The funding news comes on the heels of a new commercial milestone for the medtech company which has long been a leader in the novel and growing field of augmented reality surgery. Named for its ability to give surgeons "x-ray vision,” xvision made history in December 2019 as the first FDA-approved AR navigation system for surgery. The cutting-edge technology superimposes critical data onto the surgical field, allowing surgeons to visualize patient anatomy through skin and tissue and to accurately navigate instruments and implants during spine surgery. Unlike traditional navigation systems, which require surgeons to continually look away to an ancillary screen, xvision allows surgeons to keep their eyes directly on the patient, lending better visualization, control, and accuracy during spine procedures. The xvision headset is purpose-built for surgeons, with the goal of allowing them to perform surgery exactly as they would naturally. The proprietary medical device integrates navigation capability to optimize surgical accuracy. Photo: Augmedics Often described as a “game-changer” by surgeons, xvision has seen rapid adoption since its US commercial launch in 2020, including by numerous premier academic institutions across the country. As adoption accelerates, so do the system’s capabilities; Augmedics launched a significant platform expansion in March 2023 including the system’s first artificial intelligence (AI) application, laying the groundwork for future platform developments further supported by the financing. “To close an $82.5M round in the current fundraising environment is a testament to the dramatic impact Augmedics is making on the field of spine surgery. The accomplishment is underscored by the tremendous achievement of 4,000 patient lives impacted,” said Augmedics President & CEO Kevin Hykes. “We are pleased to secure the resources to continue leading the market in the adoption of augmented reality spine surgery.” “In CPMG and Evidity, we are proud to welcome two world-class partners who bring tremendous expertise to the table,” said Augmedics Chairman of the Board Rick Anderson. “This financing signifies the utmost confidence in the xvision technology and its role in redefining the standard of care for enabling technology in spine surgery. We are thrilled with this significant runway into the future as we execute against our mission to revolutionize surgery for patients and the surgeons who treat them.” CMPG’s Kent McGaughy and Evidity’s Paul Enever will join Augmedics’ board of directors. "In a field where many make claims about the benefits of augmented reality in surgery, Augmedics stands apart with a proprietary AR navigation solution, delivering best-in-class surgical accuracy daily to ORs across the country," said McGaughy. "For nearly two decades, we have studied and invested in enabling surgical technology. We are excited to partner with Augmedics, the clear leader in augmented reality surgery." The company’s revolutionary xvision Spine System® allows surgeons to see patients’ anatomy as if they have “x-ray vision” and accurately navigate instruments and implants during spine procedures. The first-of-its-kind, FDA-cleared xvision has been used to treat over 4,000 patients and implant more than 20,000 pedicle screws across 21 US states. xvision has consistently demonstrated 97-100% accuracy of pedicle screw placement across multiple patient studies. https://youtu.be/MDM-eUPNNMM Read the full article

[consagoustech]

8 Real Use Cases for Augmented Reality

One of the major forces driving the digital sector forward is augmented reality or AR. The global AR market size was estimated at USD 25.33 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 40.9% from 2022 to 2030.

That's because augmented reality (AR) software, headsets, and smart glasses can potentially improve almost every sector of the economy, from retail to manufacturing. We probably won't have to wait until 2020 for AR to significantly influence society as a whole because it can address some of the most prominent issues and pain points.

Extended Reality Technology Services are becoming more accessible and affordable, with many smartphones now equipped with AR capabilities. This makes it easier for users to experience AR without additional hardware. It is a relatively new and innovative technology that has captured the attention of many developers and creators. As a result, many new and exciting Extended Reality applications are being developed, driving interest and adoption of the technology.

Here are 8 of the top use cases for augmented reality technologies that are about to take off, ranging from remote work to education:

Medical Training

By delivering an immersive and dynamic learning environment, augmented reality (AR) has the potential to revolutionize medical education. Medical students can observe and interact with organs, bones, and other anatomical structures more naturally by using AR to display three-dimensional replicas. Real-time visualization of medical imaging data, such as CT or MRI scans, is also possible using augmented reality. 

AR / VR App Development can be utilized to deliver practical training for medical device usage, upkeep, and troubleshooting. Medical students can learn to use and repair medical devices dynamically and interestingly by superimposing virtual graphics onto actual ones.

Tourism Industry 

For the tourism industry, Extended Reality Technology Services has the potential to be a game-changer. By superimposing digital material over the actual environment, augmented reality improves the visitor experience. Virtual tours of museums, landmarks, and tourist destinations can be made using augmented reality. Visitors can take the virtual tour and view the site from various perspectives using a smartphone or tablet.

Maps and instructions can be given to visitors using augmented reality. Apps that use Extended Reality Technology Services can place virtual arrows and signs over the actual world to direct visitors. By superimposing translations over the real world, augmented reality can assist visitors in communicating with locals. Apps for augmented reality translation can translate text, menu items, and signage in real-time.

Public Security

People nowadays will quickly go for their smartphones in an emergency to find out what is happening, where to go, and if their loved ones are safe. Also, when there is a fire or an earthquake, first responders try to determine who needs help and how to get them to safety.

Augmented Reality App Development is shown the potential to resolve both public safety puzzle pieces. First responders who use AR glasses can be warned of dangerous places and can see in real-time who needs help while being aware of their surroundings. For those in need, location-enabled AR/VR app development can provide the best routes and directions to safe areas and locations with firefighters or medical personnel.

Education

Extended Reality Technology Services have the potential to transform education by making learning more engaging, interactive, and immersive. As technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of AR / VR App Development in the classroom. AR can be used to create virtual field trips that allow students to explore different parts of the world or historical events. 

For example, a history teacher could use the Augmented Reality App Development to take students on a virtual tour of the pyramids in Egypt, giving them a chance to experience history more interactively.

Restaurant 

AR / VR App Development has an influence on almost every industry in restaurants. AR and VR have begun to be used by restaurant businesses for marketing and promotion. In addition, AR VR aids in staff training and offers captivating customer experiences. The food industry is one such industry that AR and VR restaurants are attempting to break into.

Ordinary menus are transformed into engaging, interactive displays using augmented reality, entertaining even the most seasoned customer. Extended Reality Technology Services is helpful for workforce training, marketing strategies, and eating enjoyment. Learning food preparation and other job-related skills is made more accessible by technology.

Entertainment 

By connecting with people and fusing the actual world with the virtual one, augmented reality gives entertainment a new level. 

Extended Reality Technology Services have effectively aided the entertainment sector in PR and marketing activities for motion movies, television, and other promotional campaigns.

A fresh lease of life has been given to print media, such as magazines and newspapers, by the development of augmented reality technology. Reading is presently a popular activity among older, wealthier individuals, but AR technology has the potential to make it more attractive to younger individuals.

Design and Modelling

AR assists professionals in visualizing their finished projects throughout the creative process in fields including interior design, architecture, and construction. With headgear, architects, engineers, and design experts may enter their structures immediately to see how they would look and even make real-time adjustments. Using AR headset visualization, urban planners may even simulate how complete city plans might seem. AR technology is ideal for any design or modeling tasks involving spatial connections.

Logistic

Augmented Reality (AR) has the potential to transform the logistics industry by increasing efficiency, reducing errors, and enhancing safety. 

AR can help warehouse workers locate products more efficiently by overlaying digital information in the real world. For example, workers can wear AR-enabled glasses that display the location of a specific product on a shelf, reducing the time needed to find it. This can improve inventory management and reduce the time spent on manual inventory checks.

AR can guide workers through picking and packing, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Workers can wear AR-enabled glasses that display information about the items they need to pick, their location, and instructions on how to pack them.

Summing up

Extended Reality has become an un-detachable part of technology when developing easy-to-use and interactive experiences for users. Augmented Reality App Development allows them to interact with digital objects in the real world, making the experience more immersive, engaging, and fun.

Businesses and brands use AR more frequently to promote their products and services. AR experiences can showcase products more interactively and engagingly, increasing customer engagement and sales. If you want to infuse the power of AR in your mobile app, hire Extended Reality App Development Services Los Angeles. 

Consagous Technologies is a tech partner of many brands on a mission to develop a unique app to help people live an easy life. Contact us if you have any ideas that can revolutionize the tech world. We will help you with an app developer that will last longer in a competitive world. 

Original Source: https://www.consagous.co/blog/8-real-use-cases-for-augmented-reality

[envision2023]

PlayStation 5 at Microsoft

The PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the latest and most advanced gaming console produced by Sony. It has been highly anticipated by gamers around the world, and since its release in November 2020, it has become one of the most sought-after gaming consoles on the market. If you're considering whether or not to purchase a PS5, here are some reasons why you should get one.

Want to skip all the hassle? Get your PlayStation 5 from us today...

CLICK HERE TO CLAIM YOUR'S NOW!

Unmatched Graphics and Performance

One of the most compelling reasons to get a PS5 is the graphics and performance. The console is built with cutting-edge technology that provides a level of realism and detail in games that has never been seen before. The PS5's graphics card is capable of producing up to 120 frames per second, allowing for smooth and immersive gameplay. Additionally, the console has an advanced solid-state drive (SSD) that drastically reduces load times, making games load faster and run smoother than ever before.

A Growing Library of Games

Another reason to get a PS5 is the growing library of games available for the console. Many of the most popular and highly anticipated games, such as Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Demon's Souls, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, are exclusive to the PS5. Additionally, many games that are available on other platforms are optimized for the PS5, providing the best possible gaming experience on the console.

Exclusive Features and Technology

The PS5 has several exclusive features and technologies that make it stand out from other gaming consoles. One of these features is the Dual Sense controller, which has haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that provide a more immersive gaming experience. The console also has a 3D audio system that creates a more immersive and realistic sound experience, and it supports ray tracing, a graphics technology that allows for highly realistic lighting and reflections.

Want to skip all the hassle? Get your PlayStation 5 from us today...

CLICK HERE TO CLAIM YOUR'S NOW!

Compatibility with Older Games

If you're a fan of older games, the PS5 is compatible with most PlayStation 4 games. This means that you can play many of your favorite games from the previous generation on the PS5, with improved graphics and performance. Additionally, many older games are being updated to take advantage of the PS5's technology, providing an even better gaming experience.

Social Features and Online Play

Finally, the PS5 has several social features and online play options that make it easy to connect with friends and other gamers. The console has a built-in microphone, so you can chat with other players without needing to purchase a separate headset. Additionally, the console has a dedicated button for sharing gameplay footage and screenshots on social media, making it easy to show off your gaming skills to the world.

In conclusion, the PS5 is an excellent gaming console that provides unmatched graphics and performance, a growing library of games, exclusive features and technology, compatibility with older games, and social features and online play options. If you're a serious gamer or just looking for a new way to experience your favorite games, the PS5 is definitely worth considering.