Platform reviewed: PS5 Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android Release date: December 8, 2023
Rocket Racing is another major game to launch within Fortnite at the end of 2023, in what was a landmark period for the ongoing blockbuster title. Rocket Racing is being worked on by Psyonix, the folks behind Rocket League, and actually shares a lot with the popular car football game. The result is as slick and polished as you’d expect, but like the other two new Fortnite games to arrive alongside it, Rocket Racing lacks its own sense of identity. It’s a competent racer that simply fails to stand out against its competitors - but there is hope on the road ahead.
Psyonix has made a smart choice with Rocket Racing, taking the beloved Rocket League brands and folding it into a reasonably straightforward arcade racing experience. If you buy a skin in Rocket Racing, you can use it in Rocket League, for example, and many of the racing mechanics are just retooled versions of the moves you can pull off in Rocket League. Because of this familiarity, given you’ve played Rocket League, of course, Rocket Racing’s drift-heavy gameplay clicks almost immediately. The key to winning a race is delightfully simple: just be faster than the other players. There are no items and very few gimmicks to be found in Rocket Racing, with races primarily focusing on skill and map knowledge.
There are 26 launch tracks to race through in Rocket Racing, split into Novice, Advanced, and Expert difficulties. One of the main issues with progression is that if you want to go down the ranked route, you’ll only really play Novice tracks for the first couple of hours. These are stripped-back affairs, lacking any of the zero-g twists and turns that comprise the game’s main hook. You see, the cars in Rocket Racing can air-dodge and stick to surfaces, gravity be damned. In Expert levels, this neat mechanic is used plentifully, resulting in some very fun racing indeed. The tracks at lower difficulties? Well, they’re less engaging. Simpler tracks focus on drifting, which does get old very quickly. It all feels a bit like item-less Mario Kart. It's exciting for a select few, but not really how most people would choose to play the game.
A challenge a day
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Thankfully, you can choose tracks to jump into from the get-go, if you want to experience the Expert tracks sooner. As a complete offering, Rocket Racing’s tracks suffer from the lack of identity present in the overall game. I have played each track at least four times apiece, but I would struggle to tell you my favorites or even distinguish between most of them. The soundtrack, meanwhile, is excellent, hitting a sweet spot between the drum and bass of the 2000s and some of the more electro-heavy leanings of the Rocket League soundtrack.
Given that Rocket Racing lives within Fortnite, its vehicles can be applied to use in the Battle Royale Mode. New vehicle skins can be purchased in the Item Shop, and I must say, the prices are absolutely egregious. A whopping 4000 V-Bucks (a 5000 V-Bucks pack costs $19.99) will get you a new car and some decals. This is well out of parity with the Lego and main Fortnite offerings in the store, though perhaps this has something to do with the prices in Rocket League. Regardless, it turns an approachable racing game into something a bit more pricey, which I think misses the mark.
Best bit
(Image credit: Epic Games)
By dodging while in the air, you’ll flip your Rocket Racing car left, right, up, or down. This can be used to propel yourself onto walls and ceilings, where you can drive in zero gravity. Building on this, some of Rocket Racing’s best moments involve switching between these planes of racing.
Rocket Racing does have Daily Challenges, Quests, and even Battle Pass rewards, giving players something to work towards while racing. Unfortunately, the game does not have its own Battle Pass and instead shares its rewards as part of the main Fortnite Battle Pass. In fact, the first Rocket Racing Battle Pass unlock doesn’t arrive until level 82 out of 100, making it pretty inaccessible to most players.
Not so special
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Currently, Rocket Racing is running its Season Zero, so it has yet to launch what one assumes, or hopes is a more robust set of progression features. It’s the future where things look brightest for Rocket Racing, with user-created tracks, leaderboards, and further customization options all teased for later down the line. Hopefully, once the first major update hits, Rocket Racing will start to feel a bit more like a full game, and less like a Rocket League collaboration within Fortnite.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Rocket Racing shares Fortnite’s accessibility settings, which means they’re slightly too buried in menus. Still, there’s a sound visualizer, completely remappable controls, as well as some HUD scaling options.
While future updates will go a long way to making Rocket Racing feel like a worthwhile proposition, the game has a real problem with its sense of identity. The art style is generic, the tracks are forgettable, and the core racing hook is not exciting enough to make a splash. This will be trickier to remedy moving forward, but for now, at least, Rocket Racing is polished enough to recommend to those looking for a new arcade racer. Something is missing, however, and I suspect that feeling will persist until the community gets its hands on the upcoming creation tools. Until then, so far, so unremarkable.
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Platform reviewed: PC Available on: PC Release date: December 14, 2023
House Flipper 2 scratches the age-old itch of transforming a house into a home. As a renovator based in the fictional town of Pinnacove, you run a business that involves visiting or buying houses that have seen better days, and transforming them into something much more liveable.
You’ll never be short of work, either, as Pinnacove is to shoddy shacks what Powerwash Simulator’s Muckingham is to dirt and grime. Meaning there’s a nigh-on endless stream of buildings to rescue from tragic neglect. Granted, renovating houses doesn’t exactly sound like a thrilling time. But the way House Flipper 2 gamifies tasks like cleaning, painting, collecting trash and constructing walls allows for simple play that’s both accessible and delightfully moreish.
House Flipper 2 is a vastly improved version of the first game. Additions like voiced dialogue and a basic narrative help to further ground you in its world, sometimes making you feel like you’re helping piece together a whole picture as you complete tasks around town. While some fairly long load times do frustrate, there’s really very little to fault Frozen District’s latest renovation sim for.
The house that Jack built
(Image credit: Frozen District)
There are two main styles of play in House Flipper 2. At your home base upon starting the game, you’ll first be introduced to Tasks. These are accessed via your inbox, and will have you visiting houses with some preset goals to take care of. For example, a person may require you to simply clean out their garage by throwing away trash and cleaning up stubborn stains. Another might have you renovating an attic room for a family member, in which you’ll paint the walls and place down new items of furniture.
There’s a lot of variety in House Flipper 2’s tasks. And while they grow to become much more involving missions over time, when you’re starting out they act as fantastic tutorials that’ll allow you to gradually unlock new tools and perks through the game’s experience system. Basically, the more you accomplish certain tasks like cleaning, decorating and so on, you’ll earn perk points to make your job more efficient. Examples here include a wider paint roller, and larger garbage bags letting you fit in more trash before needing to dispose of it.
Best bit
(Image credit: Frozen District)
Buying an old, run down house and flipping it into a luxurious abode is equal parts involving and rewarding. Especially when you list your hard work on the auction house and make a huge profit.
Tasks act as the best possible preparation for that second style of play, which is where you’ll eventually be spending most of your time in the game, and this is the act of house flipping itself. From your home base - once you’ve earned enough cash by completing Tasks - you’re able to purchase rundown houses for the purpose of renovation.
House flipping is a much more involved endeavor, as there are no preset tasks or objectives for you to meet. Instead, you’re left entirely to your own devices to turn the house around. Here, it’s you who gets to choose what hue to paint the walls, what furniture to invest in. And later on, once you unlock the sledgehammer, how exactly you want the floor plan to be laid out.
It’s easy to spend countless hours on a single house. In the house flipping mode, I did initially find the whole process to be a little overwhelming given the amount of freedom you have. But once you’ve got a solid plan in mind, investing your time and hard-earned cash into creating something unique pays off when you hand it over to the auction house for a big profit. And if you want to try again with an entirely different approach, it’s as easy as rebuying the house via your in-game workspace.
Flippin' marvelous
(Image credit: Frozen District)
Another element where House Flipper 2 excels in comparison to the first game is with its overall presentation. The sequel looks much more vivid and colorful than the relatively drab palette of the first. This helps create a greater distinction between a neglected hovel and the finished product. The improved visual design makes it all the more common to step back, look at your handiwork, crack a smile and think: “yep, I did that.”
Your busywork is further helped by House Flipper 2’s wonderfully relaxing soundtrack and brilliant sound design. Wooden floors satisfyingly squeak as you clean them. Fresh paint rests on walls with a suitably sticky register. Little things like this make the experience feel more grounded and immersive.
Accessibility
House Flipper 2 doesn’t feature any notable accessibility options at launch. Subtitles are baked into voiced conversations. There’s no colorblind settings to speak of. You are able to adjust various elements of mouse sensitivity, such as when cleaning windows. But besides that, there isn’t anything particularly accommodating.
Fully-voiced phone calls add to this as well. House Flipper 2 features some excellent voice acting which you’ll get to listen to on a handful of missions. You’re able to respond to the person on the phone, too, with a set of dialogue choices to help guide the conversation. These can be a little irksome, admittedly, as they’ll briefly take control away from your renovating. You can choose to skip the call entirely if you’d prefer to just get on with it, but that does mean losing some of the game’s charm.
Lastly, load times do tend to be on the longer side, especially noticeable when you’re loading into a larger house that features hundreds of individual objects. This isn’t a massive issue, as during play there isn’t a hint of stuttering or additional load times. But do expect to sometimes be waiting upwards of half a minute when loading into those bigger maps, even with the game stored on an SSD.
Thankfully, these minor shortcomings have done nothing to halt my enjoyment of House Flipper 2. The superbly satisfying process of renovating properties lends the game such a strong ‘one more house’ element that often had me playing for much longer than I’d intended. If you’ve enjoyed the first House Flipper, or indeed other job sims like Powerwash Simulator, then this sequel is an absolutely essential play.
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Platform reviewed: PS5 Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android Release date: December 7, 2023
Lego Fortnite marked the pinnacle of an extremely important week for Fortnite last week; not one, not two, but three new games were released within Fortnite, with the Lego-focused entry leading the way. It’s a survival crafting game that’s more than a little bit like Minecraft, and it’s being marketed as a full game that ‘lives in Fortnite,’ a claim that does raise the eyebrow somewhat. However, this essentially holds up; Epic Games and Lego have put together a competent, approachable, and surprisingly moreish survival crafting game for no additional cost. It’s missing a few features that you’d expect from this sort of game, but it’s well worth trying out with friends.
The fact that Lego Fortnite is a fully featured game released within the biggest battle royale game around is noteworthy, and pretty much unprecedented, at least at this scale. It’s free too, and tied into Fortnite's existing experience points (XP) systems. You can hop into Lego Fortnite, and earn XP towards your main Battle Pass, before jumping into one of the other hundred or so modes. It really is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and likely just Epic Games’ first step towards crafting Fortnite into a one-stop destination for a range of gaming experiences.
Part of what makes Lego Fortnite such a compelling proposition for existing players is how seamlessly it’s been folded into Fortnite’s world. There are 1,200 Lego skins at launch, based on those already found in Fortnite. I first spent ages looking through my Outfits, checking which ones had Lego styles and which didn’t. Seeing Lego versions of iconic Fortnite characters like Peely, Fishstick, and Jonesy never really gets old, and it’s genuinely mind-blowing just how many skins Lego and Epic have managed to put together. You can also use many of your favorite emotes, and it’s a real joy to see how Lego characters move when certain ones are triggered.
Begin at the beginning
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Lego Fortnite’s opening hour walks you through the basics, leading you from punching down trees with your plastic Lego hands, to building your first shelter. Lego Fortnite is immediately striking, utilizing the very best of what Unreal Engine 5 has to offer. Strangely, this is probably the best-looking Lego game released so far, combining Fortnite’s vibrant color palette with the shiny, plastic real-life look of Lego bricks. You’ll spawn into a randomly selected spot in the world, or you can enter a seed if you have somewhere more specific in mind. Over the following hours, you’ll be well on your way to building and managing your very own Fortnite village, with an ever-changing cast of characters that’ll visit and join in the fun.
Lego games are often some of the most approachable and easy to understand, making them excellent for a younger audience. Lego Fortnite is a great example of this, with an easy-to-understand gameplay loop and control system. Unfortunately, this sense of streamlined simplicity does not extend to building, which feels overbaked in its current state. Each build has multiple stages, each stage with multiple pieces that need to be placed onto a defined grid. While this is clearly a nod to how Lego is put together in the real world, it’s completely out of place here. Large builds can take ages to complete and, due to the placement of objects being a little finicky at times, often feel frustrating.
Best bit
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Unlocking the glider completely opens Lego Fortnite up. You can use geysers to soar up into the air, allowing you to reach previously inaccessible resources. Make sure you get your plastic little mitts on it as soon as you can.
Over on the survival side of things, there’s a hunger and temperature meter and fairly easy-to-understand third-person melee combat. There’s a great-feeling dodge roll and even a way to stun enemies with a well-timed shield block. You’ll need to eat to keep your health up, but the balance is a little bit out of whack at present. It can feel overbearing at times, with constant reminders of your character’s hunger before you stand still munching berries to stave it off for 10 minutes or so. Similarly, your temperature will drop dramatically when it’s raining, meaning you’ll need to wait inside or risk losing health. This does get better as you craft charms that add heat and cold resistance, but the first few hours are rough.
Upgrades, people
(Image credit: Epic Games)
The auto-build mechanic found in other Lego games would really fit into Lego Fortnite, and help alleviate what is currently a very annoying building system. There’s no real build camera either, meaning you need to walk around a large building, looking up at certain spots in order to place individual parts. It’s a shame that Lego Fortnite misses the mark in its building, especially given how fun it is in other Lego games. Generally, crafting and resource gathering are much better, with a clear and defined loop associated with crafting tools to gather resources of escalating rarity.
As a survival crafting game, Lego Fortnite is excellent. As a Lego game, it’s a little bit lacking. You cannot move buildings and instead need to destroy them and go through the lengthy building process all over again. Villages feel messy and cramped as a result, and there’s very little room for experimentation and play, something that really doesn’t mesh with Lego’s main strengths. Another missed opportunity is the lack of split-screen co-op. This is present in some of Fortnite’s main modes, so its absence is especially puzzling here. Lego games are some of the best ways to play alongside younger family members (in particular), making Lego Fortnite a difficult game to recommend for those with children who like to play together in the same room.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Lego Fortnite shares Fortnite’s Accessibility settings, which means they’re slightly too buried in menus. Still, there’s a sound visualizer, completely remappable controls, as well as some HUD scaling options.
There are many quality-of-life changes I’d like to see brought to Lego Fortnite in the future, and well, this is Fortnite, so updates are very likely. You’ll probably be surprised to know that farming animals is currently not possible in Lego Fortnite, making certain resources difficult to get ahold of. This creates bottlenecks in your plans, grinding progression to a halt for hours at a time. Generally, though, the gathering, crafting, and progression loop in Lego Fortnite is precisely what it needs to be. You’ll gather better resources to craft better tools that allow you to reach even better resources in different and more dangerous biomes. It’s incredibly moreish, and my group of friends has already had trouble logging off at the end of a long play session. Perhaps just one more expedition before bedtime.
I have no doubt that Lego Fortnite will be supported and updated in the future, and generally, there’s more than enough here to warrant its claims of being a full game. Like everything else in Fortnite’s ecosystem, Lego Fortnite is incredibly slick, solid, and extremely good value. It’s a riot in four-player co-op, though you’ll need to head online to squad up with friends. As a swing at being a Minecraft competitor, Lego Fortnite has heaps of potential. In its current state, it actually reminds me more of Valheim, with a clear and rewarding progression loop that’ll keep you coming back for hours and hours.
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Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5
Release date: 7 December, 2023
If there’s one thing that Ubisoft can do better than anyone else, it’s open-world collect-’em-ups. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is, ostensibly, an open-world collect-’em-up. However, somehow, despite Ubisoft being the reigning world champion of games where you mosey around a map polishing off side-quests and hoovering up loot, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora fails to make the moseying, polishing, or hoovering particularly compelling, making the game hard to recommend.
On the surface, Frontiers of Pandora presents itself like a Far Cry game. In reality, poor combat and some slight jank make it worse than most of the titles in that franchise. This is unfortunate because with the Na’Vi protagonist being so invested in stealth, the superhuman abilities they possess, and the giant jungle for you to stalk your prey in, this actually feels more like Far Cry than many of the games that followed it in its own franchise.
As it stands, the main reason to play Frontiers of Pandora is to visit the world of the game’s title, with the moon of Pandora offering up vibrant plant life and one of the best jungles in video game history.
Sadly, the artistic brilliance of the world of Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels somewhat unfocused. It’s beautiful, but the weapons and gear you find feel much less interesting, and the UI looks average. But, from the second you first step into the trees after the game’s tutorial, you’ll fall in love, and that sense of amazement doesn’t go away.
Hard to Na'vigate
(Image credit: Ubisoft)
Avatar enthusiasm isn’t enough to support the entire game. The narrative is a little too earnest for my liking, but that’s a criticism that I also level at the Avatar movies, so it does feel authentic enough, and the story does feel somewhat distinct from the many other “gather strength and wage a guerilla war” games that have come out over the last decade. You spend a lot of time with an assortment of forgettable faces early on, and I struggled to care about many of them. Mostly because the glacial pace meant that I was often being sent out into the world to find new character after new character even while I petulantly kicked my heels, desperate to be allowed to get out and kill the bad guys. I get that this is a problem with me, but it still takes Frontiers of Pandora a really long time to get started, and it makes it a tough game to get invested in.
When you do get stuck in, there’s something that feels distinctly off about the combat. In my first real engagement, an enemy mechanized suit seemed unable to notice me, looking blankly into the horizon as I plinked arrow after arrow into his suit until it exploded. Human sentries, half my size and largely ineffectual, blended into the shrubs until I found them by the pulsing red icons showing me where damage was coming from.
Best bit
(Image credit: Ubisoft)
Exploring Pandora, the fictional moon where Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora takes place, is divine. Your character is fast and agile and the world is perfectly designed to have you leap between giant trees and slide around at lightning speed.
At first, you fight with Navi weapons, a bow, and a sling that can fire proximity mines. These are fine for the early fights and I whooped the first time a critical hit on a mech suit with the bow saw my arrow plow through the hardened glass and kill the human operator inside. However, as the enemies start to get more durable, few of the weapons in Frontiers of Pandora feel like they have a real impact.
Nowhere is this felt more than with the bog standard assault rifle, which plinks rounds into enemies with an unsatisfying whump, closer to Nerf gun than a lethal weapon, and in comparison, I’d rather just be smacking people with my giant alien knees.
Over time you’ll level up, explore a skill tree filled with uninspiring skills and craft, loot, or hunt down a variety of different gear and resources. The jungle, beautiful as it is, doesn’t have a whole lot to do in it, but you’ll have to plow on with it anyway because progression is gated behind certain abilities or levels.
It’s okay because the best way to amuse yourself on the way is to massacre Pandora’s local wildlife.
Far cry me to the moon
(Image credit: Ubisoft)
Avatar has an incredibly strong environmental message: the Resources Development Administration (RDA) that you fight all of the time is destroying Pandora’s natural environment with their very existence: wilting the local wildlife, spewing pillars of smoke into the air and just being very naughty boys for the environment.
But honestly, I’m not sure my Na’vi is any better. The most tonally dissonant part of Avatar is how much pulling up roots, hunting animals, and running through the jungle mashing the F key to gather items goes against the ecological message at the heart of both the game and the Avatar movie series as a whole. Yes, no one doubts that hunting for food or crafting new leather gear is what the Na’vi in the universe of the film get up to, but it feels like murdering scores of native wildlife to get yourself a new pair of gloves every 30 minutes isn’t really in the spirit of things, you know? If I’m taking out an entire herd of animals so I can flog their parts for profit, am I really that different from the RDA?
Accessibility
(Image credit: Ubisoft)
A user interface menu has a highly customisable color blind mode that allows you to customise the colours while looking at a tester screen to see how it's working for you. The gameplay menu lets you make the gathering or several other areas instant instead of the usual minigame, which could suit for many people.
Frontiers of Pandora isn’t interested in these questions, only in a byzantine crafting system that triggers my fight or flight response every time I have to interact with it. The Breath of the Wild-inspired cooking system gets a pass just because it makes me laugh to make an eggy salad or mushroom-stuffed fish, though.
Unfortunately, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora ultimately feels like the movies that inspired it: a beautiful world and fascinating setting are let down by the shallow world around it. If you’re a true Avatar head, this is your dream, but if not it’s hard not to think of the many better examples of the genre I’d rather be playing instead.
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CPU: Intel Core i9-11900H, 8C/16T, up to 4.9 GHz Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics for 11th Gen Intel Processors RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200 MT/s (expandable to 128GB) Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD (expandable to 2TB) Rear Ports: 4/ x USB3.2 Gen 1, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DP 1.4, 2 x RJ45 (2.5G), 1 x Kensington Lock Slot Front Ports: 2 x 6 x USB3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB-C (DP/Data), 1 x 3.5mm CTIA Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 Audio Output: 3.5mm jack Camera: Not included Size: 180mm x 175mm x 36mm OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro Accessories: Power Adapter, HDMI Cable, User Manual
The Intel NucBox M4 mini PC features an Intel 11th Gen Core i9-11900H processor, which instantly outlines the potential of this small machine. Aimed at professionals who require a machine that can handle multiple apps and screens, the M4 balances power and portability. With 8 cores and 16 threads, this mini PC boasts a top clock speed of 4.9 GHz, enough to ensure that most applications will run fast and smoothly.
When it comes to graphics, the power of the CPU isn't quite matched by the GPU, although this is a perfectly respectable Intel UHD Graphics chipset. While the GPU might not be suitable for high-end gaming, it can comfortably handle light gaming and graphic-intensive professional tasks, as well as the use of up to three monitors. The NucBox M4 excels in multitasking, thanks to its 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, ensuring ample space and speed for storing and quickly accessing large files.
Connectivity is a strong suit of the GMKtec M4, featuring six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, dual RJ45 ports for stable high-speed internet connections, and support for triple display setups – an advantage for professionals who multitask Office and web browsing across multiple screens. Additionally, its compact form factor, measuring only 180mm x 175mm x 36mm, makes it a space-saving solution for any desk.
Having tested plenty of the best mini PCs, we can say the GMKtec M4 puts in a steady performance in various benchmark tests. With Crystal Disk Read speeds of 3438MB/s and Write speeds of 2723MB/s, it highlights its capability in fast data processing, essential for tasks like video editing or handling large databases. GeekBench scores of 2227 (single-core) and 6175 (multi-core) further demonstrate its competence in handling both everyday tasks and more demanding applications.
CineBench scores, especially the multi-core score of 9923, indicate its strength in CPU-intensive tasks, making it suitable for 3D rendering and video editing. In gaming performance, the Fire Strike and Time Spy scores suggest that while they can manage light gaming, the machine might struggle with the latest, most demanding games.
The GMKtec M4 is not just a work-oriented machine; its ability to support up to three screens at high resolution adds a layer of utility for multimedia as well as that all-important office work. However, those looking for a mini PC primarily for high-end gaming will find its graphics capabilities limiting.
GMKtec NucBox M4: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec M4 is accessible for purchase through GMKtec's official website, Amazon, and various other online retailers, making it widely available.
Score: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox M4: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec M4 takes quite a different approach to the compact mini PC format compared with other mini machines on the market, including the GMKtec M3 and GMKtec NucBox G3. The M4 offers a unique blend of traditional desktop styling and compact mini PC convenience. Its slightly larger footprint offers a slimline design that feels more like a miniature version of a standard desktop PC, providing a high-quality feel and robust Build. This design choice not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to improved heat dissipation, which is crucial for maintaining performance stability in a professional environment.
Aesthetically, the GMKtec M4 takes a minimalist style, offering a sleek design that fits seamlessly into any workspace without the flashy design details that can often be featured on Mini PCs. The design is also versatile when it comes to how it can be placed on your desk, with the option to either place it flat or vertically on a desk. However, its size might make it less suitable for tucking away under a monitor.
The front panel of the GMKtec M4 is well-designed for accessibility and ease of use, featuring two USB Type-A ports, a USB Type-C port, an audio output, and a power button; all other ports are round the back. This layout ensures that essential peripherals can be connected easily.
Internal access for upgrades is straightforward, thanks to a user-friendly design that requires removing just two screws to slide off the top section. This feature allows for easy upgrades and maintenance of the main SSD and RAM, adding to the overall practicality of the device.
The cooling system of the GMKtec M4 deserves mention. It is well-equipped to handle the heat generated by the powerful Intel Core i9 processor, and when the machine is put under load, you can hear the fan start-up, but the size means that it is quieter than other powerful Mini PCs.
Design: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox M4: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec NucBox M4 Mini PC manages to distinguish itself from other Mini PCs in several ways; first and foremost, the larger design but also uses a power CPU for swift office work and a less powerful GPU, making it less suitable for gaming. The powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor, characterized by 8 cores and 16 threads, which delivers exceptional performance for various computing tasks, especially when handling large databases and files. This processor, coupled with Intel UHD Graphics, offers a balance of power for multitasking, content creation, and some moderate gaming.
A feature that will appeal to those wanting a machine for day-to-day office work is the ability to hook up to three screens, with the machine offering HDMI, DP, and Type-C outputs.
In terms of connectivity, the GMKtec M4 isn't short of options with six USB 3.2 ports, facilitating high-speed data transfer and seamless connection of multiple peripherals. The inclusion of dual RJ45 ports with 2.5G Ethernet ensures high-speed, stable internet connectivity, which is essential for online gaming streaming and has been especially useful during the review for network-connected 3D printers and laser engravers.
The M4 includes an i9 processor, which can pack a lot of power but also generate a considerable amount of heat when under load. The M4 has been design with a super cooling fan system, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. This feature is crucial, given the power of that i9 processor, as it maintains optimal operating temperatures and helps to maintain the processor speed when being worked hard.
Memory and storage options are pretty decent, with support for up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM and 2TB of M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD storage. This expandability is worth taking into consideration if your computing needs expand or the applications you use become more processor-intensive.
Features: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox M4: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 3438MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 2723MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 2227 GeekBench CPU Multi: 6175 GeekBench Compute: 6687 PC Mark: 4673 CineBench CPU Multi: 9923 CineBench CPU Single: 1571 Fire Strike Overall: 1911 Fire Strike Graphics: 2121 Fire Strike Physics: 19757 Fire Strike Combined: 617 Time Spy Overall: 659 Time Spy Graphics: 573 Time Spy CPU: 4521 Wild Life: 4556 Windows Experience: 7.7
The GMKtec M4 is powered by an 11th Gen Core i9-11900H, which, through the tests, showed impressive performance across various benchmarks, highlighting its capability as a high-performance mini PC. The Crystal Disk Read and Write speeds of 3438MB/s and 2723MB/s, respectively, highlighted its ability to handle data-intensive tasks efficiently, making it ideal for applications requiring fast data access and transfer, such as video editing or large file management.
GeekBench scores, with 2227 in single-core and 6175 in multi-core tests, confirm the M4's ability to handle a range of tasks from everyday computing to more demanding applications. This aligns with its potential for creative tasks, multitasking, and even light gaming.
CineBench scores, particularly the multi-core score of 9923, indicate the M4's strength in rendering and other CPU-intensive tasks, making it suitable for creative professionals working with the best 3D modeling software or best video editing software. Through the test, I utilised Blender and Fusion 360 to design a couple of tripod leg holders, with the modeling handled well by the power of this processor.
In gaming performance, the M4 showed capability for light to moderate gaming, and the Fire Strike and Time Spy scores evidenced this. While it may not cater to the most demanding modern games at high settings, it's certainly capable of handling less graphics-intensive titles smoothly. Through the test, I tested Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption II, and whilst both ran, the graphics meant that the gameplay was sluggish. However, less graphically intensive games were handled well.
The Windows Experience Index score of 7.7 further validates the overall solid performance of the M4, indicating it is a reliable and robust machine for a variety of uses.
The benchmark results, alongside the real-world tests using Microsoft Office, Photoshop, DaVinci Resolve, and loading a few games, showed the M4 is well-suited for professional and creative work and other processor-intensive applications like the best graphic design software.
A solid, space-saving, if unspectacular, alternative to the best video editing laptops or the best laptops for graphic design. Its ability to support triple displays is a bonus, although, in this test, I only expanded that to two. Overall, this is a great machine for processing and work.
Performance: 3/5
Should you buy the GMKtec NucBox M4?
the GMKtec M4 stands as an impressive mini PC that bridges the gap between compact design and high-performance computing. Its main selling points are its powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor and the capability to support up to three displays, making it one of the best business PCs in a small-form factor (or an alternative to the best business laptops if space is at a premium). An ideal choice for professionals engaged in multitasking and content creation. Additionally, its ample connectivity options, generous storage and RAM expandability, and effective cooling system make it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
While it may not be the go-to choice for ultra-high-end gaming or those seeking the smallest possible footprint, the NucBox M4 excels in providing robust performance in a relatively compact form. Its blend of power, functionality, and design makes it a standout option for anyone looking for a mini PC that can handle demanding tasks with ease.
Value: Exceptional performance at a competitive price. (4/5) Design: Slimline, traditional design; versatile, accessible ports. (4/5) Features: Ample connectivity, easy internal access, effective cooling. (4/5) Performance: Strong CPU, decent GPU; suits moderate gaming. (4/5) Total: A powerful, well-designed mini PC with great value. (4/5)
CPU: Intel 12th Alder Lake-N100, 4C/4T, up to 3.4 GHz
Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics (750MHz, 24 execution units) RAM: 8GB DDR4 3200 MT/s (expandable to 32GB) Storage: 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD (expandable to 2TB) Rear Ports: 2 x USB3.2 (Gen1*1 5Gbps/S), 2 x HDMI (4K@60Hz), 1 x 2.5G Giga LAN (RJ45) Front Ports: 2 x USB3.2 (Gen1*1 5Gbps/S) Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 Audio: 1 x 3.5 mm headphone jack Camera: Not included Size: 115mm x 108mm x 44mm OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro Accessories: Power adapter (DC IN 5.5/2.5mm, 12V/3A)
The GMKtec NucBox G3 is definitely priced to attract entry-level users, those on a budget or just want a compact machine that will enable them to browse the internet and carry out office and some multimedia tasks.
Powering the small box is an Intel 12th Alder Lake-N100 processor, an ideal choice for this style of mini PC as, while not a top specification processor, it is still designed to handle everyday tasks efficiently. With its 4 cores and 4 threads, it reaches a maximum speed of 3.4 GHz. We've tested plenty of the best mini PCs, and while not groundbreaking, there's sufficient power here for basic office applications, web browsing, and light multimedia tasks such as watching videos and streaming music.
The GMKtec NucBox G3's performance in benchmarks like Crystal Disk, GeekBench, and PC Mark underscores its suitability for light to moderate use. The Crystal Disk scores of 1763 MB/s read and 1692 MB/s write speed indicate impressive speeds with the handling of data transfer and storage tasks. GeekBench scores, with 933 in single-core and 2303 in multi-core tests, highlight its capacity to manage day-to-day applications smoothly, although it does rule out more processor and graphic-intensive tasks.
In terms of gaming, the G3's limitations become apparent. Its Intel UHD Graphics, while adequate for basic graphical tasks, is not cut out for high-end gaming or even mid-range, as evidenced by Fire Strike and Time Spy scores. This Mini PC caters well to casual gamers who are content with less demanding titles, but for those seeking a device for intensive gaming, the G3 might not be the ideal choice
The design of the G3 is another highlight, featuring a lush green colour variant that adds a touch of uniqueness to its compact form. The build quality is solid, and it is remarkably lightweight at just 0.79 lb (361g), making it highly portable. The option for DIY upgrades is a welcome addition, with easy access to RAM and SSD slots, ensuring that the device can grow with the user's needs.
Connectivity options on the G3 are ample, with multiple USB 3.2 ports, dual HDMI supporting 4K at 60Hz, and a 2.5G Ethernet port for faster internet connectivity. Its Wi-Fi 6 capability ensures speedy and reliable wireless connections. The audio output is limited to a single 3.5mm headphone jack, which is standard for most mini PCs.
Running on Windows 11 Pro, the GMKtec NucBox G3 offers a familiar and intuitive user experience, with added support for Linux for those who prefer an open-source environment. If you're running any of the best 3D printers or best laser engravers, then this could make a great workshop choice.
GMKtec NucBox G3: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec NucBox G3 Mini PC, already attractively priced at $279 for the 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD variant, can often be found discounted through various retailers, including directly from GMKtec or the Amazon Store. This aspect of affordability enhances its value proposition significantly.
Score: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox G3: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec NucBox G3 might be at the budget end of the market, but it still models a sleek, modern mini PC design, combining both form and function in a compact and lightweight package. Weighing in at just 265g and with dimensions of 115mm x 108mm x 44mm, it's both a great desktop space saver with its small footprint and small and lightweight enough to make it portable if needed.
As with other NUCs and thin clients of this type, it also offers a good range of alternative mounting options, enabling you to monitor, stand or wall mount if needed
The exterior of the G3 is made from high-quality plastic, which balances the lightweight construction with portability and durability. Despite its all-plastic construction, the unit feels robust and well-built. The design also makes it incredibly easy to upgrade if needed with the top cover, which can be easily pried open, providing hassle-free access to the internal components. This feature is particularly beneficial if you purchase the barebones version or want to upgrade the hardware in the future, as it enables quick modifications.
The layout of the ports around the case helps to enhance the G3's usability. On the front are two USB Type-A ports, and then there's a well-arranged selection of ports at the back, all of which help when setting up the Mini PC. The G3's port design is really well thought out, especially the two HDMI ports, one on either side of the rear of this small machine.
Design: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox G3: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The G3 boasts a rich array of ports, including USB 3.2 for high-speed data transfer, HDMI for 4K@60Hz Ultra HD output, and a 2.5G Giga LAN port for fast-wired network connectivity. This variety of interfaces caters to diverse needs, allowing connections to monitors, TVs, audio systems, NAS, printers, and projectors. The inclusion of a Kensington lock port also adds a layer of security if needed.
At its core, the G3 features the Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake N100 processor, which offers increased performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessors like the N95 processor. This processor is equipped with 4 cores, 4 threads, and a 6 MB cache, operating at a speed of 3.4 GHz. The micro-sized chip's 7nm lithography and 6W TDP (Thermal Design Power) make it an energy-efficient yet fast processor, suitable for multitasking and everyday computing tasks such as Microsoft Office and web browsing.
The G3 is equipped with 8GB DDR4 RAM at 3200MHz, which is expandable up to 32GB. It supports M.2 2242 SATA (not included) and comes with a 256GB SSD M.2 2280, expandable to 2TB. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 technology ensures fast wireless connectivity, being three times faster than Wi-Fi 5. The cooling fan and vents incorporated into the design help maintain optimal operating temperatures.
The G3 offers advanced networking capabilities with super-speed Wi-Fi 6, allowing for dual-band speeds of up to 2400Mbps and high-speed Ethernet capable of 2.5Gbps. These features ensure faster and more stable internet connections, whether wirelessly or through a wired connection, so there are plenty of connection options depending on your needs.
With dual HDMI 2.0 ports, the G3 supports two 4K displays at 60Hz, which can again be useful in a work environment where you may want your work documents on one screen and a web browser on the other.
Other notable features include Auto Power On and Wake On LAN, and compatible with multiple operating systems, including Linux, Windows 10, and Ubuntu.
Features: 3.5/5
GMKtec NucBox G3: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 1763 Crystal Disk Write: 1692 GeekBench CPU Single: 933 GeekBench CPU Multi: 2303 GeekBench Compute: 3276 PC Mark: 2711 CineBench CPU Multi: 362 CineBench CPU Single: 683 Fire Strike Overall: 1080 Fire Strike Graphics: 1138 Fire Strike Physics: 6252 Fire Strike Combined: 413 Time Spy Overall: 373 Time Spy Graphics: 326 Time Spy CPU: 2163 Wild Life: 2699 Windows Experience: 6.4
The performance of the GMKtec NucBox G3 Mini PC, as indicated by the test results, positions it as a reliable performer for everyday computing tasks, though with limitations in more demanding applications.
For standard tasks like web browsing, document editing, and basic office applications, the G3 proves more than capable. Its Crystal Disk Read and Write scores indicate that it can handle data transfers and system operations swiftly, contributing to a smooth user experience for everyday tasks such as web browsing, transferring files and using Microsoft Office applications. We found it's also perfectly suited to handling 3D printing Slicing Software.
When it comes to creative applications like Photoshop, the G3's performance is modest. This is hardly the best photo editing PC out there - not even close. While it can handle basic photo editing and light graphical tasks, the CineBench scores suggest limitations in handling more processor-intensive creative work, such as complex image processing or running the best video editing software. While basic editing is possible, the speed of rendering on video footage above 1080p can quickly get jittery with dropped frames through playback, so we can't recommend this to anyone looking for the best video editing PC or a space-saving alternative to the best video editing laptops.
In our experience, the gaming performance of the G3 is best described as suitable for casual gaming. The Fire Strike and Time Spy scores reflect that while it can manage some light gaming, it struggles with more graphics-intensive games. Games like Red Dead Redemption II and Cyberpunk require more than this machine can provide on the graphics front.
The GeekBench CPU scores showcase that the G3 can handle multitasking, making it a solid choice for productivity tasks that don't demand intensive CPU usage, such as working on both Office and web browsing applications. However, for multi-threaded tasks or heavy multitasking, it may not be the most efficient choice.
With its dual HDMI ports supporting 4K displays and fast Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, the G3 is well-equipped for multimedia consumption and online activities. Its ability to support dual screens at high resolution is a great feature, considering the price point. It does enable you to split applications across two screens, which gives you far greater room to manoeuvre.
For an entry-level machine, the performance is solid. When in use, it's quick for everyday tasks and will handle Microsoft Office and other similar applications with ease. When it comes to anything more processor-intensive, while it can handle some tasks, it will struggle with others, but it is still impressively powerful for its intended market.
Performance: 3/5
Should you buy the GMKtec NucBox G3?
The GMKtec NucBox G3 Mini PC is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly, compact computing solution. Its Intel N100 processor handles everyday tasks and basic multimedia applications with relative ease, making it one of the best business computers for everyday office and browser-based use.
While it falls short in high-intensity gaming and creative tasks, its design, featuring a rich array of connectivity options and upgradability, adds significant value.
Priced at $279, it offers great value for money, perfectly suiting budget-conscious consumers, students, and anyone needing a reliable, no-frills computer. Overall, the G3 is a practical, cost-effective mini PC for everyday use and light multimedia activities.
Value: Exceptionally priced for basic computing needs. (4/5)
Design: Compact, lightweight, with practical connectivity options. (4/5)
Features: Adequate features for everyday use and upgrades. (3.5/5)
Performance: Satisfactory for general tasks, limited for gaming. (3/5)
Total: A cost-effective, efficient choice for basic usage. (3.5/5)
Microsoft has released an updated version of the Xbox app for PC, which comes with several changes and quality of life improvements. One of the new additions is Compact mode, which has been designed with the new wave of handheld gaming PCs in mind.
The Compact mode enables a collapsible side menu, which lets you minimize it so only the icons are visible. This frees up some much needed space on these small screen devices.
Unfortunately, when enabled, you lose direct access to your installed games through the sidebar and they have to be accessed by going into the My Library...
Platform reviewed: PS5 Available: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC Release date: November 27, 2023
Gangs of Sherwood is a steampunk twist on the tale of Robin Hood that pits Robin and his grimdark Merry Men against the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and his army of identical thugs, many of whom seem to go by the name Gerald. As a Robin Hood game, it shakes things up, too: It steals from the time-rich and gives only poor experiences.
Visually speaking, Gangs of Sherwood is a feast; the concept art in the loading screens and the design of every location is a fantastic twist on the classic tale. The steampunk style works brilliantly mashed together with the medieval setting, and wandering around the muddy and mechanic streets of Locksley while being bombarded by artillery is an unforgettable experience. You can navigate these places by yourself or in a group of four, with each player taking over the mantle of Robin of Locksley, Little John, Friar Tuck, or Maid Marion.
Unfortunately, a good-looking game can only go so far. Gangs of Sherwood fails to deliver any thrilling fights or explosive skills that action brawlers like itself usually promise. Despite only having three acts, which last a maximum of five hours, this steampunk fantasy can seem like it goes on for an eternity.
Having to face up against the same group of bad guys, comprised of several goons and one big knight with a shield, over and over again can seem like a medieval version of Ground Hog Day. There’s also no reprieve to be found in the three side missions as the repetition carries on. One quest sees you stand in a large courtyard and shoot a gigantic mechanical bull over and over again as the same bad guys that plagued the main acts aimlessly chase you across the open space as you dodge the bull's incoming attacks.
A walk in the park
(Image credit: Nacon)
My first encounter with Gangs of Sherwood earlier this year in the preview was slightly unimpressive. However, as I only saw a small snippet, there was still a ray of hope that the entire game wouldn’t just revolve around similar fights and enemies, which I had seen in my first hands-on. Unfortunately, these hopes ran up short once I finally got to play the rest of the action game.
Playing Gangs of Sherwood was painfully straightforward; I started on the standard difficulty setting and quickly upgraded to the hardest in an effort to find some joy in the heat of battle. Sadly, the more challenging option failed to paper over some mediocre and repetitive combat and didn’t even make the game feel much more difficult.
Best Bit
(Image credit: Nacon)
There are some interesting environmental kills in Gangs of Sherwood. One of my favorites is dropping a beehive onto an unsuspecting goon’s head.
Gangs of Sherwood doesn’t have to be challenging to be enjoyable, but it does have to be interesting. After the first few fights, I quickly figured out the pattern of every following combat encounter. Not only was the threat easy to assess and counter, but the bigger, seemingly more dangerous opponents were predictable without fault. This predictability sucked any joy or danger out of the action game immediately, and I soon felt like I was simply going through the motions to reach the end of the game.
The matter wasn’t helped by the fact that almost every enemy encounter revolves around the same three fights. With limited enemy classes, every other combat sequence is like deja vu as you continually come up against similar groups of opponents. Once you get to the later stages, Gangs of Sherwood resorts to throwing every enemy at you at once instead of trying to switch up the combat. The most interesting encounter I had was with the main boss in the second Act, in which one enemy heals the main fighter periodically. Still, unfortunately, even that became monotonous as every move was evenly spaced out, which made it simple to predict and quick to defeat.
The easy fights were made worse by Rebel Instinct, which acts as an ultimate ability for every character as it slowly charges as you deal damage, resulting in a powerful final attack. It can be so powerful that I began to feel bad for attacking opponents with a neverending volley of supercharged arrows. eviscerating them in no time at all.
One is a lonely number
(Image credit: Nacon)
My time in Gangs of Sherwood was a dismal experience and claims that co-op would make it more enjoyable is hard to believe. I only played a few parts of co-op, but from what I saw, it wasn’t all that different; it felt like separate characters fighting their own battles in the same area instead of an authentic cooperative experience that would encourage players to gang up on enemies together.
Gangs of Sherwood is ultimately let down by its lackluster fights and repetitive action
Gangs of Sherwood could be a fun experience with the right group of friends, but that’s not the mark of a great game. Almost everything can be improved with the right people around, and this is especially true in gaming. Oftentimes, subpar games are made better by co-op as you experience less of the game and more of your friend's hilarious antics.
Furthermore, a co-op game that only works in multiplayer and not single-player despite having the option to play alone, isn’t a fantastic sign. If a title promises multiple ways to experience it, whether by yourself or in a group, it should deliver on that and not simply bank on players sticking with co-op.
Gangs of Sherwood is ultimately let down by its lackluster fights and repetitive action. With almost nothing else to do other than practice moves, fight the same enemies, or walk around the beautiful yet empty base of operations, it’s not something I’d recommend if you’re looking for something new to play with friends or by yourself. While the artistic style and locations in this action game are something to be marveled at and are genuinely quite impressive, this alone isn’t enough to save Gangs of Sherwood from mediocrity.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Nacon)
Gangs of Sherwood also unfortunately fails to deliver any meaningful accessibility options. Other than controlling sound levels, you can change the brightness, motion blur, and language. Otherwise, there are no other options to be found. This was unhelpful for me since, while there are subtitles, there is no way of changing the size, meaning that I could barely read them.
How we reviewed
It took me around five hours to finish the main story of Gangs of Sherwood and another two hours to complete the three extra missions. While I encountered no major bugs with the PS5 version, there were a few issues with characters clipping through walls during cutscenes, or occasionally, enemies would just stay still as if they had already given up the fight.
To say the Hyte Y70 Touch is the culmination of a major PC building trend we've seen over the past few years feels like it doesn't do this case justice.
Back in ye olden dæges, even the best PC case was just an aluminum box with a panel that would open up to let you dig into the guts of your computer. But like every other kind of electronic device, it was purposefully designed to hide everything on the inside. After all, who wants to look at printed circuit boards, soldered ICs, and maybe a dusty fan mounted onto the CPU that 95% of people never bothered to clean?
We've come a long way since then, and as PC enthusiasts and gamers invest serious money into their builds, the impulse to show it all off became too great to ignore. We've since introduced plastic side panels, then tempered glass, and in the last five or six years, we've started to see cases that resemble the kind of glass housing once reserved for museums so builders could show off their hard work.
What they haven't really done before, however, is have an off-the-shelf case that integrates functionality into this cutaway case design, since glass is glass and it's only really good for looking through and providing a small measure of physical protection.
Hyte, on the other hand, decided to swap out the corner panel of its already excellent Y60 PC case for a 4K interactive touchscreen that has literally stopped several of my coworkers in their tracks this past week so they could gawk at the video wallpaper, clock, and Twitch chat window embedded into the touchscreen along the corner edge of the Y70.
To be fair, they weren't around to watch me stumble through the process of setting up the touchscreen, since it's really just a second Windows display like any one of the best monitors you'll find, though its 1100x3840p resolution makes it a meh-level second display without Hyte's Nexus software.
Once you install and run the software, it will do all the hard work of actually configuring the display to embed widgets, system information like CPU temperature, and even app shortcuts to put your favorite software a quick touch away.
Of course, to get the case's display to work, it needs to be connected to your graphics card via a DisplayPort connection, so you'll need a graphics card capable of multimonitor support as well as a free DisplayPort output. Nearly all of the best graphics cards, and even most of the best cheap graphics cards, will come with at least two DisplayPort connections, but if you're already running a multimonitor setup, you will likely need to do some cable juggling to make sure your graphics card can run the touchpanel.
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As for what you can do with the touch panel, there's actually quite a bit, including adding widgets for quicker access or displaying system information, or possibly taking a break from playing the best PC games to play a Tetris-style brick dropper instead.
And while this might feel a bit gimmicky, the program shortcuts are an absolute lifesaver as someone who has dozens of windows open on my desktop at any given time.
Finding the shortcut to launch Photoshop on my desktop comes in varying degrees of difficulty depending on how much junk I've dropped onto my desktop over the past few weeks. Being able to turn slightly and touch the Hyte Y70 Touch's display to bring up photoshop is the kind of small thing that adds up to minutes and hours of reclaimed time over weeks and months of use.
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
The Nexus software is more or less fine, and it comes with a number of presets that you can run as live backgrounds on the display. One thing to note is that you need to use this software to setup the touch display properly, so once you've built the PC and have successfully booted it up, download and install the software before you do anything else and work through Hyte Nexus.
It's through this software as well that you can build up pages of widgets, turning the Hyte Y70's front-corner panel into something with a smartphone-like interface, making it about as intuitive as it gets.
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
When it comes to actual hardware, the case doesn't come with any fans, but it has room to install up to 10 chassis fans, as well as a 360mm long x 125mm thick radiator on the side and another 360mm long x 68mm thick radiator along the top. You have a lot of options for cooling the rig, but definitely focus on intaking air from the bottom and back of the case, as the front and side walls are glass, so you'll have to be conscientious about proper airflow.
Fortunately, as a dual-chamber case, many of the hottest components are separated to allow for easier cooling and air circulation. The biggest and most obvious way this is done is through the vertically mounted GPU thanks to an included riser. It doesn't hurt that it also shows off your GPU.
In terms of rear capacity, there are two internal drive bays that can fit a pair of the best hard drives at 3.5-inches, or up to four 2.5-inch SATA SSDs. The PSU bay is roomy as well, making cable management easier than with a tighter mid-or-full tower case, which can jam even the best PSUs.
There's more than enough room in the front chamber, so whichever of the best graphics cards you install, the Y70's 16.6-inch GPU clearance is more than enough. It is also able to vertically mount up to a four-slot card, so if that Nvidia Titan RTX refresh ever comes along, you just might be able to fit it in here.
This extra capacity also makes cable management a much easier problem to solve, and even though this is a very premium PC case, it's incredibly user-and-newbie friendly. You'll still have to know where and how you should install various case components like fans and lighting, but the easy-open case gives you all the room you need to work, even if you barely know what you're doing.
And while I am going to rave about this case from here to CES and beyond, it's not all lovely touchscreens and roomy interior. If there's one complaint I have with this case, it would be its price. Coming in at $359.99 / £349.99 (about AU$560), this is significantly more expensive than the Hyte Y60 or Lian-Li O11 Vision, which comes in at just $139.
Of course, none of those cases have a 4K touchscreen interface built-in, so the price isn't unreasonable for what you're getting, but this is a premium case nonetheless, so those on a budget might want to shop around for something more in line with their budget.
Hyte Y70 Touch: Price & availability
How much does it cost? $359.99 / £349.99 (about AU$560)
When and where can you get it? Available in US right now, with UK and Australia availability coming in December
The Hyte Y70 Touch is available in the US right now for $359.99, with a December launch planned for the UK and Australia. The UK retail price will be £349.99, and should sell for about AU$560 in Australia.
This is a roughly 80% price increase over the Hyte Y60, though that case does not include a touch display.
Hyte Y70 Touch: Specs
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Should you buy the Hyte Y70 Touch?
Buy the Hyte Y70 Touch if...
You want an absolute showpiece The Hyte Y70 Touch will draw a crowd if you let it. I know from personal experience.
You want to have a host of functions and apps at your fingertips
The 4K touchscreen on the Y70 makes it easy to pull up apps, track Twitch chat, and monitor system conditions with ease.
Don't buy it if...
You're on a budget
This is a very premium PC case, so if money's tight, forget about the touchscreen and opt for the Hyte Y60 instead.
You have limited desk space
This is a honking big PC case. If your desk looks like the aftermath of Verdun, you might want to go for something with a smaller footprint.
Hyte Y70 Touch: Also consider
If my Hyte Y70 Touch review has you looking for other options, here are two more PC cases to consider...
We pride ourselves on our independence and our rigorous review-testing process, offering up long-term attention to the products we review and making sure our reviews are updated and maintained - regardless of when a device was released, if you can still buy it, it's on our radar.
Platform reviewed: PC Available on: PC Release date: October 31, 2023
You Will Die Here Tonight is a short but not entirely sweet horror game made by Spiral Bound Interactive, which puts players in the shoes of six high-level special ops characters with whom you’ll navigate a haunted mansion.
This top-down survival horror sees a special-ops task force invade a suspicious mansion in hopes of capturing its deranged owner. But with little information to go on, the group’s mission is further thrown into chaos when they are sabotaged and blindsided by a mysterious attacker. After you get split off from everyone else, you must use your wits and foresight to plan an escape, but unfortunately, you probably won’t be taking the whole group with you; some of them will die there tonight.
You must gather materials and puzzle pieces to fend off the undead that roam the mansion and solve riddles along the way. Once one character dies, you take control of the next, and then the next one, and so forth, until you’ve expended your resources and have no one else left to help escape.
At face value, there’s a lot of promise in You Will Die Here Tonight. The basis of the story, fight mechanics, and unification of characters are all interesting ideas that could help form an excellent twist on the usual zombie horror genre. However, sadly, this horror title just falls short of polishing up these factors and also fails to deliver some basic requirements. It’s for this reason that you won’t be seeing it on our best horror games list.
Blast from the past
(Image credit: Spiral Bound Interactive LLC)
When it comes to looks, You Will Die Here Tonight certainly does deliver, however. The top-down perspective combined with its retro aesthetic makes it stand out from other horror games that may have a similar premise.
Best Bit
(Image credit: Spiral Bound Interactive LLC)
Being trapped in an underground cavern and surrounded by attacking zombies. The transfer from a top-down perspective to a first-person point of view to shoot down all the oncoming attackers is a nice change of pace and adds to the horror.
The retro art style means that every location looks fantastic. There are gloomy libraries, mysterious subterranean lairs, and even some beautiful gardens decorated with ivy and sparkling fountains. It also makes exploring each setting far more enjoyable if there are tons of great places to admire.
Each one of the characters also looks excellent. While in top-down mode, you can only make out some minor details with the simple character outlines, but each one comes alive the closer you look. When a character begins to talk, we get a close-up static headshot; here, we get to see them better. It doesn’t stop with the cast of protagonists, though; the evil undead also benefit from this cool style.
While they can look pretty flat from afar once you enter combat mode in first-person, these creatures truly do look horrifying. Creeping up from the shadows, these undead experiments crawl and shift toward you at varying speeds, making every face-to-face encounter horrifying.
Some missing parts
(Image credit: Spiral Bound Interactive LLC)
You Will Die Here Tonight may certainly look the part, but unfortunately, it has several glaringly obvious rough edges. While there aren’t any real technical issues, there are some features that haven’t been well-rounded or are missing some features or tweaks.
Entering into the narrative, you get almost no time to get to know the other characters in the story. Besides walking into a room and listening to a couple of them talk about an event you have no memory of, there’s not much to tie you to these people. This means when many of them eventually die, in an assortment of weird and brutal ways, it doesn’t matter. Instead of fighting to get everyone out alive, every character is no more than a heart in the top corner of your screen.
There are also a couple of twists and turns in You Will Die Here Tonight that don’t hit as hard as they probably should. There’s a betrayal that fell flat because not only do I not know or care about the characters, but the reveal felt so wooden that I brushed straight past it. The character designs are pretty cool, and some of the one-liners they dish out can be strangely hilarious, so it’s a real shame that I didn’t feel more connected to them. There’s also the unimpressive reveal of what is truly going on in this mansion; you encounter a zombie almost straight away, which kills off any suspense.
This survival horror has high aspirations but manages to fall short of them in most aspects
There were also a couple of issues with story progression. At times, running around the mansion gave me tunnel vision; despite being in a huge area, every door would be locked to prevent straying off course. More often than not, it felt as if you were jumping through hoops and simply completing tasks for the sake of it and not because you truly wanted to find out more.
It’s a shame. This survival horror has high aspirations but manages to fall short of them in most aspects. The story isn’t that engaging; the riddles and puzzles can be long and quite boring, and the crafting and exploration aren’t fully fleshed out.
That being said, if you are a fan of top-down retro survival games and have a few hours to kill, You Will Die Here Tonight will scratch an itch. The entire game can be completed in less than five hours, so it’s pretty short, and while it’s not necessarily that straightforward to finish, I can see it being a satisfying puzzler for some.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Spiral Bound Interactive LLC)
There are no accessibility features in You Will Die Here Tonight, and the overall options are pretty sparse. There are a few audio settings that let you tweak the volume or general audio, as well as a couple of display options that allow you to alter the brightness, but that’s it.
How we reviewed
I completed You Will Die Here Tonight in less than five hours on PC. I tried to explore as much as possible, so it’s highly likely that you can finish this survival horror game in less time than that. I didn’t encounter any technical issues with it, and it was also pretty simple to interact with and not that taxing on my PC.
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