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Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 review: easy to recommend

6:00 pm | August 31, 2024

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: One-minute review

If you're looking for one of the best SSDs for PS5, then you can’t go wrong with the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5. This officially licensed drive may look a little plain compared to some of the flashier options out there, like the WD Black SN850 or Samsung 990 Pro, but it still delivers great performance where it counts.

It exceeds the drive specifications recommended by Sony and recorded a solid 6,459 MB/s read speed using the PlayStation 5’s own internal benchmark. In real terms, this means no noticeable decrease in the performance of any of the best PS5 games compared to the console’s internal storage. It also helps facilitate speedy and smooth game transfers and installations.

For added peace of mind, the drive comes with a generous five-year limited warranty out of the box. The PS5 first went on sale in November 2020, so, judging by the lifespan of previous Sony consoles, that half-decade warranty should be enough to see you through the rest of the console generation.

The 1TB model is readily available at a range of retailers and comes in at a good price in both the US and UK. While it’s also easy to recommend the 2TB model in the US, it’s a little harder to find in the UK and can therefore be quite expensive in the region. Still, like other SSDs, the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 frequently receives excellent discounts around major sales periods, so it's always one to watch out for.

There is also a 4TB model available, which goes for around $389.99 (roughly £328.36) though stock seems incredibly limited. This 4TB model also doesn't seem to be sold at all in the UK right now. This is a real shame, especially when we’re seeing more and more even higher-capacity 8TB drives enter the market such as the new 8TB WD Black SN850P.

With the file sizes of some of the most popular PS5 releases only increasing, those who want to store a larger number of games would be better served by easier-to-find alternatives or even one of the best PS5 external hard drives instead.

The Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 fitted into a launch PS5. — (Image credit: Future)

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Price and availability

1TB is $99.99 / £99.90
2TB is $159.99 / £159.90
4TB is around $389.99

The 1TB Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 for $99.99 / £99.90 while the 2TB model is $159.99 / £159.90. Stock of the 2TB capacity seems quite scarce in the UK, though so it often appears above that price.

While the 1TB drive is a very solid value in both regions, when you bear in mind its officially licensed status, you should certainly avoid purchasing the 2TB model in the UK until it is available at around RRP.

The 4TB variant goes for around $389.99 but is not easy to find and does not appear to be sold in the UK. This is definitely a shame and will be a dealbreaker for those who want to keep many large games, like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 or Horizon Forbidden West, installed at the same time.

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Specs

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Design and features

Even by PS5 SSD standards, the design of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 is definitely on the plain side. It comes fitted with a very boxy heatsink that makes the drive look like a small black rectangle attached to some connector pins. It’s quite a thick heatsink too, though I was pleased to find that I fit in the PS5’s M.2 SSD bay perfectly.

While there are no LEDs present here, the heatsink is decorated with a small blue groove and a white Seagate logo. I can’t deny that I would have appreciated something a little more exciting, but it’s hard to complain when you’re ultimately not going to see the drive when it’s in use anyway.

The retail packaging is good and contains an easy-to-open plastic case with plenty of padding to keep the drive snug and protected on the move - always great to see. The box features prominent PS5 branding, plus some basic information about the drive’s five-year warranty that directs you to the Seagate website.

The bottom of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD. — (Image credit: Future)

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Performance

The performance of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 isn’t groundbreaking by any means, but still very good on the whole. It reached a 6,459 MB/s read speed with the internal PS5 SSD benchmark and performed well on a range of real-world file transfer tests.

Copying a 55.86GB installation of Zenless Zone Zero from internal storage took just 24 seconds while 50.49GB of Star Wars Outlaws was moved in just 21.5 seconds. Similar performance was observed with larger games, like the 100.1GB Final Fantasy 16 which was copied in only 43 seconds.

Transferring smaller titles was also a breeze. The 30.71GB Alone in the Dark remake was fully copied in just 14.8 seconds and the 9.92GB Asphalt Legends Unite took only 6 seconds. Finally, the miniscule 1.65GB Angry Birds Star Wars was fully copied in 1 second. Jumping into all of these games, loading times were snappy and on par with those when playing from the PS5’s internal storage. These figures are only slightly behind the times that I recorded on the high-end Samsung 990 Pro, so great results overall.

I also did not observe any major performance decrease over periods of extended use. The drive was able to copy multiple large games without breaking a sweat, which suggests that the included heatsink works effectively.

A top down view of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD. — (Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5?

Buy it if...

You want an officially licensed drive
You can’t go wrong with an officially licensed PS5 SSD. The Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 is within the specification recommended by Sony, includes a heatsink out of the box, and fits easily in the console.

You want a 1TB PS5 SSD
The 1TB model of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 is widely available and comes in at a very reasonable price. If you’re searching for a 1TB drive for your console, then this is definitely one to keep in mind.

Don't buy it if...

You need a 4TB drive
While there is a 4TB model of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, it is hard to find. You should consider other more readily available options if you would prefer or need a 4TB SSD.

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, then consider these two compelling alternatives.

Samsung 990 Pro
The Samsung 990 Pro is the PS5 SSD to beat. It has a great design and boasts blazing fast speeds. Just bear in mind that it is more expensive than the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

For more information, check out our full Samsung 990 Pro review

WD Black SN850
The WD Black SN850 is an older model that is slower than the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5. Still, it’s within the recommended spec and could be a good alternative if you find it on sale.

For more information, check out our full WD Black SN850 review.

A close-up shot of the connector of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD. — (Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5

Fitted to my personal PS5
Used to store and transfer games
Used in-built PS5 benchmark

I tested the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 for a week, fitting it to my personal PS5 console and spending a day running a wide variety of tests. I recorded the data from the in-built PS5 storage benchmark, plus copied a wide variety of games to the drive. I was careful to test the drive with a good range of different file sizes in order to assess its performance.

Throughout my time with the drive, I compared the experience and its design to my hands-on testing of other PS5 SSD drives. This included the Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850, WD Black SN850P, and more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

Steam Deck OLED review: a decent upgrade, but left me wanting more

3:21 pm | August 30, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: AAA, Super Mario Odyssey, Tokyo | Comments: Off

Steam Deck OLED: Two-minute review

If all you want to know is whether the Steam Deck OLED is better than the original Steam Deck, then the answer is a definitive yes. This is easily the best Steam Deck model and one of the best handheld games consoles on the market right now thanks to an abundance of improvements that lead to a more comfortable and polished play experience.

The most significant of these is the new 7.4-inch OLED display. This is slightly bigger than the 7-inch LCD panel on the original model but offers a considerably more vivid picture with brighter contrast, better viewing angles, and much richer colors. It’s a huge leap and something that is immediately noticeable when you place a Steam Deck OLED side by side with the original model. The bright primary hues of titles like Hades 2 or Cult of the Lamb have simply never looked better.

An image showing the bright screen of the Steam Deck OLED. — (Image credit: Future)

Other changes here are more subtle. The Steam Deck OLED is slightly lighter and has been fitted with a larger fan for better thermal performance. It also features Wi-Fi 6E, paving the way for faster downloads and more responsive online play for those who own a compatible router. The Steam Deck OLED benefits from more battery life too, with official figures boasting a “30-50%” boost. In practice, however, I soon found that this was still not enough and I had to frequently contend with the handheld completely running out of charge while I was away from a socket.

There have been no noticeable improvements to in-game performance compared to the original model either. The Steam Deck first launched back in February 2022 and could just about run many of the biggest titles of that year, be that Elden Ring, Ghostwire: Tokyo, or Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands. Things are a little different in 2024, however, as the Steam Deck OLED now struggles to maintain decent frame rates in major games.

This wouldn’t necessarily be a problem - there are countless amazing indie titles to experience after all - but I found Valve’s own ‘Deck Verified’ system to be extremely disappointing. In theory, ‘Deck Verified’ games are those that will run decently right out of the box. Fully ‘Deck Verified’ games display a prominent green tick on their store pages, while those that are considered ‘Playable’ but not perfect are marked with an orange exclamation mark.

It’s a great idea on paper, but I quickly learned that many ‘Deck Verified’ games do not run at an acceptable standard. Take Deathloop, for example, which has been awarded the big green tick. It plays at a jittery 15 frames per second (fps) in its default configuration, with huge drops whenever literally anything happens on screen. You can get it to run at a solid 30fps, and look quite good, but it requires a lot of awkward fiddling around with different graphical options. Not quite the seamless, console-like experience that many would want.

Still, if you’re not afraid to tinker, the Steam Deck OLED is a formidable system that helps you experience your existing Steam library in a whole new light.

A photo showing the right hand side of the Steam Deck OLED. — (Image credit: Future)

Steam Deck OLED: Price and availability

Starts at $549 / £479
512GB and 1TB models
Cheaper LCD model still available

The Steam Deck OLED starts at $549 / £479 and is available directly from Valve via Steam. This will get you the 512GB model, which comes bundled with a basic carrying case. For $649 / £569, you can pick up the 1TB model that comes with an upgraded carrying case.

This upgraded case features a removable liner, which can be used as a more compact and soft way to keep it protected. You also get some digital bonuses in the form of a Steam profile bundle, an exclusive Steam Deck OLED startup movie, and an exclusive virtual keyboard theme - these are nice to have, but shouldn’t really sway your purchasing decision.

Which edition you get will mainly come down to your storage needs. Those with lots of larger games should consider the 1TB model, while those likely to install smaller indie titles or only a few games at a time would be perfectly well served by 512GB. Just note that no matter which model you pick, if you have the technical know-how you can upgrade the internal SSD yourself at a later date.

For $399 / £349, you can also pick up the older LCD model in its 256GB configuration. While this storage capacity would restrict the kinds and number of games that you can keep installed at any one time, this could still be a decent option for those on a particularly tight budget.

Steam Deck OLED: Specs

Steam Deck OLED: Design

Feels good in the hands
Few changes compared to original model
Plenty of customization options

There are very few major differences between the original Steam Deck and the Steam Deck OLED in pure design terms. The most noticeable difference is the larger 7.4-inch screen of the Steam Deck OLED, which has a slightly smaller bezel than the 7-inch display of the original. The handheld has the same overall form factor and sleek black colorway, though the power button, which is located on top of the system, is now a bright orange which lends it a neat contrasting look next to the plain volume controls and a headphone jack.

On the left-hand grip, you will find the d-pad, which is a very pleasant shiny plastic and a comfortable slightly concave shape, positioned next to the left thumbstick. There’s also a small square trackpad similar to those found on most laptops. This is in addition to a small ‘View’ button (effectively just the ‘Select’ button of a standard controller) and the ‘Steam’ button - which works like a ‘home’ button.

The right-hand grip is a similar story, with a thumbstick and trackpad in the same position. The d-pad is replaced with a set of face buttons, with the same ABXY layout as a standard Xbox Wireless Controller. Although not mechanical, they’re very pleasantly tactile and respond well to rapid inputs. There is also the ‘Menu’ (or start) button and a ‘Quick Access’ that calls up a small quick settings menu.

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The left-hand side of the Steam Deck OLED. — (Image credit: Future)

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The back of the Steam Deck OLED. — (Image credit: Future)

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The top and bright orange power button of the Steam Deck OLED. — (Image credit: Future)

The flat surface on the top of each thumbstick is actually also its own input, detecting when there is a finger placed on it. While almost no software takes advantage of this, it is a surprisingly practical addition that is sure to delight those who spend a lot of time creating their own custom input bindings. In a first-person shooter like Doom, you can set this thumbstick sensor to activate the Steam Deck OLED’s gyroscope for precise aiming which is delightfully intuitive.

Flipping the Steam Deck OLED over will give you a good look at the triggers and shoulder buttons, which are both highly ergonomic and a great size, plus the four remappable rear inputs. These can be customized to your liking with the suite of tools offered by the Steam Deck OLED’s operating system.

It’s a fantastic design overall and feels incredibly sturdy and comfortable in the hands. My only real complaint is the sheer size of the Steam Deck OLED. At 11.73in / 298mm long, the Steam Deck OLED is absolutely massive and not portable-friendly. I struggled to fit it in my small rucksack in addition to the 14” Acer Chromebook Vero 514 that I take to work, leaving me almost wishing that I had a compact gaming laptop rather than a dedicated handheld.

Steam Deck OLED: Performance

Great for indie games
Solid performance in older AAA titles
Struggles with new AAA releases

If you’ve ever used a Steam Deck, then you will know exactly what to expect from the performance of the Steam Deck OLED. It has not been improved in any noticeable way, so a good number of games will run decently, but not flawlessly. Older titles are absolutely the way to go here, with the likes of Control Ultimate Edition maintaining an impressively solid 60fps at medium settings. God of War is also a highlight, looking brilliant and easily hitting 30fps at high settings

Hellblade Senua’s Sacrifice is simply flawless, with a rock-solid cinematic 45 frames per second (fps) that just never dips no matter what you throw at it. Even some newer games, such as Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance and Persona 5 Tactica are phenomenal, at a buttery smooth 90fps. The bright red hues and smooth animations of the latter in particular are breathtaking on the OLED display. Indie games are also great on the system. Even in early access, Hades 2 is almost always 60fps with only a few small dips down into the 50s. Fields of Mistria and Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons are playable at 60fps with zero issues at all.

The Steam Deck OLED on a desk playing Hellblade. — (Image credit: Future)

That said, there are a few older ‘Deck Verified’ titles that are inexplicably poor. Detroit Become Human is a laggy mess, frequently dropping into the 15fps range, and Fallout 4 has some noticeable dips in built-up areas.

Newer games are even more hit-and-miss. Despite being a ‘Deck Verified’ title, Deathloop is flat-out unplayable in its default configuration. It can be wrangled into an unstable 40fps, but it was a struggle that took up almost my entire hour-long commute. The framerate in Redfall was also atrocious, barely scraping the 20s, while Hitman 3 ran okay at about 40fps but looked disappointingly blurry thanks to some rather aggressive upscaling.

Given the number of powerful handheld PCs like the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go that are now on the market, it’s a shame that Valve hasn’t taken the opportunity to give even a small boost to the CPU or GPU of the Steam Deck. This will still be acceptable performance for most players, provided they don't expect to play the latest games, but I’m really hoping that an overhauled, more powerful model is on the horizon.

Steam Deck OLED: Battery life

Improved compared to Steam Deck
Still expect just a few hours
Better battery performance with indie games

The battery life of the Steam Deck OLED has been improved compared to the Steam Deck, but it’s still not particularly impressive. I found that I could squeeze just over two hours of use out of the system while playing intensive games such as God of War, Deathloop, and Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice with the brightness set to its middle level which is about one and a half times what you would get on the Steam Deck. This number decreased to just over an hour with some other titles downloading in the background, though this is to be expected.

This was just about enough to occupy a train journey but would not be sufficient if you want to take your Steam Deck OLED on a long flight. You could always bring a separate battery pack with you but adding on the sheer size and weight of the Steam Deck OLED would make this a massive pain.

Thankfully, the battery life increases significantly when you’re playing simpler titles, especially 2D games. I was able to enjoy over five hours of Hades 2 without any major interruptions on the same settings, with similarly great figures for the delightful indie farming sim Fields of Mistria and detective adventure role-playing game (RPG) Disco Elysium. I’m sure this number could go even higher if you reduced the brightness or imposed a strict frame rate limit in the ‘Performance’ section of the Quick Settings.

If you’re just after a new way to play your existing library of indie games, then this battery life should be more than sufficient.

Should I buy the Steam Deck OLED?

Buy it if...

You want a new way to play your Steam games
Like the Steam Deck, the Steam Deck OLED is a good way to experience your Steam library on the go. If you want a handheld console that can play your existing games, this is a great choice.

You mainly play indie titles
The Steam Deck OLED might struggle to run many of the most recent AAA releases, but it’s an absolute dream when it comes to indie games. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a way to play the likes of Hades 2, Balatro, or Fields of Mistria out and about.

Don't buy it if...

You need better battery life
The Steam Deck OLED offers improved battery life, but it’s still one of its biggest weaknesses. If you need to play for more than a few hours at a time, consider other handheld systems like the Nintendo Switch OLED instead.

You want the best performance
The Steam Deck OLED does not perform as well as other handheld PCs, namely the ROG Ally. They are more expensive than the Steam Deck OLED but are good alternatives if you crave better framerates.

Also consider

If you’re not keen on the Steam Deck OLED, then consider these two formidable alternatives.

Steam Deck
You can still buy the original Steam Deck from Valve in its 256GB configuration. It’s also readily available secondhand. You miss out on an upgraded screen, but the lower asking price could make it a better choice for those on a tighter budget and it still offers great value.

Read our full Steam Deck review

Nintendo Switch OLED
The Nintendo Switch OLED is the definitive version of Nintendo’s latest console. It can be found in fantastic value bundles and comes in much more compact and therefore more portable than the Steam Deck OLED. It also boasts a brilliant library of exclusive games such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Super Mario Odyssey.

Read our full Nintendo Switch OLED review

The Steam Deck OLED on a desk in its included carrying case playing Hellblade. — (Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Steam Deck OLED

Tested for over three months
Played a wide variety of games
Tested in both handheld mode and with a dock

I tested the Steam Deck OLED for well over three months, taking it out and about with me whenever possible and enjoying plenty of gaming time at the office or at home plus on a range of public transport. I experienced a wide variety of games including plenty of AAA releases and indie titles. Some of the favorites that I didn’t mention in this review included Shenmue 3, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, Dishonored 2, Grounded, Lego 2K Drive, Asterigos Curse of the Stars, and much more.

Throughout my time with the Steam Deck OLED, I compared the play experience to my hands-on testing of other handheld systems. I used the Final VR500 and SteelSeries Tusq earbuds for audio while I was taking the console out and about.

I also experimented with a few accessories, including the Xbox Wireless Controller for when I wanted to play on a bigger screen. For this purpose, I used a standard laptop dock with an HDMI output and my Lenovo Q24i-20 monitor. Although the bump to a 1080p resolution certainly didn't help performance in AAA games, I found this to be a suitable solution for less intensive indie titles.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024

Visions of Mana review: a thoroughly decent RPG that lacks ambition

6:57 pm | August 29, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: Final Fantasy, RPG | Comments: Off

Review info

Platform reviewed: PS5
Available on: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S
Release date: August 29, 2024

Visions of Mana is the first original entry in the legendary Square Enix roleplaying game (RPG) franchise after a smattering of well-received remakes and remasters. Does the new game live up to venerated titles of the series’ history? Well, that’ll all depend on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Off the jump, the most noticeable thing about Visions of Mana is its jaw-dropping visuals. This vividly-colored world really jumps out on an HDR-compatible display, and the game staunchly sets itself apart from the grimdark photorealism of other modern RPGs. Mana’s graphics aren’t state of the art but its visuals nonetheless leave a lasting impression - particularly within its larger cities and sprawling explorable zones.

Being an action RPG, developer Square Enix has managed to craft an interesting - if occasionally cumbersome - combat system. With straightforward combo strings and a range of magic spells, it’s a simple combat system that adds depth with Visions of Mana’s impressive class system that - when applied to the game’s five playable party members - allows you to unlock tons of abilities for highly customizable play. This is easily Visions’ strongest selling point, and worth checking out for alone.

With that all said, I can’t in good conscience say that Visions of Mana will stand the test of time. It’s a highly repetitive game from start to finish, and while its plot has bags of potential with some strong initial narrative hooks, statically-animated cutscenes, and ho-hum voice acting takes much away from the overall experience. Visions of Mana reminds me of Tales of Arise in that sense; a fundamentally great game that fumbles on some of the genre’s core foundations - ultimately leading to a game that likely won’t live long in the memory, and sadly not among the best RPGs we've played this year.

Sell your soul

Visions of Mana is set in a beautiful world with an unenviable burden. Once every few years, the patron Faerie visits each major region of the world to choose an alm - a person of incredible talent and willpower. These alms are typically assigned the element that governs the region they hail from, be that fire, earth, light, darkness, the moon, and so on. These alms, along with a person chosen as a protective ‘Soul Guard’, must make a pilgrimage to the Mana Tree at the center of the world to offer up their lives as sacrifices to sustain life for everyone else.

It’s a strong premise with an immediate hook, and as such, the initial story beats in Visions of Mana are exceptionally compelling. That’s especially so considering regions that fail to deliver an alm to the Mana Tree are met with catastrophe. As a result, we’re given a setup with immediately high stakes, and it paints a picture of an incredibly cruel and unfair world where anything short of perfection is met with disaster.

Our protagonist, Val, has been chosen as the Soul Guard for the latest pilgrimage. What complicates matters is that his significant other, Hinna, has also been selected as the alm of fire. Again, this is a fantastic hook; Val and Hinna are excited to travel the world, but neither wants to have to permanently say goodbye at journey’s end. A quandary arises; do they give into the sacrifice to avert widespread chaos, or do they try and find another way that doesn’t require such a price?

Unfortunately, I found that Visions of Mana’s narrative doesn’t quite explore its themes as well as it should. The game’s darker moments don’t really land due to some extremely static cutscenes with near-unchanging facial expressions. Narratively, such moments also aren’t given much time to really set in, especially as we move from area to area at a surprisingly rapid pace. Things do pick up again in the final acts, thankfully, but large chunks of the story are left feeling hollow and underdeveloped which is a shame.

Our main characters, similarly, don’t offer a whole lot in terms of personality or quirks beyond surface-level stuff. Their designs are lovely and varied, but they almost uniformly feel quite cookie-cutter in terms of overall character development which takes much of the drama out of the plot.

Fight it out

Combat, similarly, is quite the mixed bag. The good news is that Visions’ combat system is very straightforward, making it an easy game to just pick up and play. The bad? This simplicity is let down by some pretty clunky movement and combat feel.

The characters and their various weapon types have a range of basic and special attacks that can be strung together for combos. Each party member can also learn a variety of spells and activate devastating Class Strikes for big damage when that move’s gauge is full.

Visions of Mana’s class system is easily the game’s most impressive feature. Each of the game’s five party members has a base class when you first meet them. Then, eight more classes are unlocked as you progress through the game, governed by each of the game’s elementals. That makes for a total of 45 classes, with each party member having access to nine each.

Classes get stronger by unlocking new abilities in the Elemental Plot skill tree. Here, each class has a strictly linear track of skills to unlock, redeemable with skill points earned through battle. That linearity might seem disappointing, but it’s somewhat offset by the fact that classes are able to mix and match many of these skills.

Best bit

I loved the class customization aspect of Visions of Mana. I was hugely impressed by the variety of classes on offer, as well as their unique aesthetics, weapon types, and various spells and abilities that can be unlocked. The fact you can take some spells from one class and apply them to another only heightens this, allowing for some truly fluid combinations within your three-person party.

As an example, I was able to turn Palamena into a damage powerhouse with the Darkness-aligned Reaper class. She has naturally high magic stats, so assigning spells of various elements to this class meant she could adapt to any given situation. Careena, meanwhile, works great as a buffer and healer and most of her classes revolve around this, so kitting her out with spells and skills to both buff characters and minimize the risk of status effects allowed her to be a mainstay in my team of three.

Characters can then further be augmented with the use of Ability Seeds. You’ll find these by opening chests or converting enemy Corestones (items that are randomly dropped from enemies containing their essence) into them once you unlock the ability to do so. Ability Seeds can provide skills and benefits not found within the Elemental Plot tree, and can really help a character reach their full potential.

You’ve got plenty of options when it comes to character builds, then, and that’s awesome. Sadly, the act of combat itself can be a bit cumbersome. Overall movement feels quite slow and occasionally unresponsive. When you jump, your character loses a bunch of momentum which seems counterintuitive for the kind of game this is. The flow of combat, overall, feels similar to Ys 8: Lacrimosa of Dana, albeit less polished and significantly slower. This is a shame, as the vast amount of customization in Visions of Mana has laid the groundwork for what could be a truly excellent combat system. Here’s hoping Square Enix can apply some finer touches via post-launch patches.

Take a hike

Visions of Mana absolutely nails it in the presentation department. This is a richly colorful game, and the vibrant palette really helps its world to feel alive. It’s not quite an open world here; rather, we have a number of large, explorable zones that are filled with a manageable amount of things to do.

Scattered throughout these gorgeous zones - which range from volcanic jungles to mesmerizing landscapes of ice - are treasure chests, optional combat shrines, and various environmental interactions that make use of your collected elements. The game isn’t absolutely awash with side quests, though the ones that are here boil down to simple monster-slaying or fetch quests that typically amount to little reward. Unlike The Witcher 3 or Final Fantasy 16, you’re not really missing much - narratively or otherwise - by skipping side quests in Visions of Mana.

The soundtrack also sadly doesn’t do much to stand out among the bustle of cities or the throes of combat. It very much takes a back seat and sounds quite low in the mix at default settings. Some later boss and area themes really do slap, however, so it’s not a total dud. It’s just not up to the very high standard set here by the likes of Secret of Mana or Trials of Mana.

In better news, Visions of Mana is superbly optimized on PlayStation 5. The game’s performance mode is especially impressive, managing to hold a smooth 60fps in most occasions, with the odd noticeable dip happening in busier areas or encounters. While I did note a couple of instances where the game froze up for a couple of seconds during exploration, these were thankfully a very rare exception to an otherwise pleasantly stable experience.

Accessibility

Visions of Mana has a very basic - but welcome - accessibility suite. Subtitles are supported, as well as text language support for English, German, French, Spanish, and Japanese players. You can also fully customize the game’s control scheme and adjust camera sensitivity settings.

Should I play Visions of Mana?

Play it if...

You want a simple and cozy action RPG
Visions of Mana is far from groundbreaking, but it just might scratch that itch if you’re looking for a breezy, straightforward action RPG experience.

You love class customization
The various classes and the cross-class customization they bring in terms of build variety add much-needed depth to the game, and it’s definitely its biggest selling point.

Don't play it if...

You were hoping for a stronger narrative
Despite its very strong initial hooks, Visions of Mana fails to keep the momentum going through its 30-hour runtime.

You prefer fluid, fast-paced combat
Combat in Visions of Mana often feels clunky with cumbersome movement and alarmingly short melee attack range.

How we reviewed Visions of Mana

I played Visions of Mana to story completion, which took around 30 hours. All the while, I sprinkled in plenty of environment exploration, completing numerous side quests and trying out various class combinations with the game’s five heroes. I played the game on PS5 on an LG CX OLED TV with a DualSense Edge controller, but do note that there aren’t any notable haptic feedback or adaptive trigger implementations here.

First reviewed August 2024.

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review: a must-have premium Xbox controller

6:00 pm | August 28, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: HDMI, TV | Comments: Off

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro: One-minute review

Whether you play on Xbox or PC (or both), the new Razer Wolverine V3 Pro controller is a must-own if you’re looking for a seriously premium gamepad. The brand’s penchant for top-notch build quality is here, but that was also true of its predecessor, the Wolverine V2 Pro. However, it’s what makes the V3 Pro tick under the hood that truly sets it apart from the best Xbox controllers and best PC controllers currently on the market.

The V3 Pro brings countless improvements over the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro that came before it. Hall effect thumbsticks are fast becoming the industry standard thanks to their drift-eliminating nature, and you’re absolutely getting them here. You can also expect satisfyingly tactile micro switch buttons and a clicky floating d-pad allowing for near-immediate actuation.

But it doesn’t stop there, as Razer has implemented some of its proprietary tech from other products into the V3 Pro to enhance it further. The controller features six remappable buttons (four on the rear and two more up by the bumpers) which make use of Razer gaming mouse technology; the same components the brand uses for those satisfying mouse clicks is brought over to the V3 Pro. Like other aspects of the controller, this allows them to feel tactile and ultra-responsive.

What you’re getting overall, then, with the V3 Pro, is a seriously high-end controller that is awash with advanced features. It goes a long way to justify its lofty price tag that puts it in the ballpark of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and the DualSense Edge. But I reckon Razer’s effort provides a comfortably better experience than both.

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro: Price and availability

$199.99 / £199.99
Available to purchase from Razer’s website
Cheaper ‘Tournament Edition’ arriving sometime in 2024

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro comes in at $199.99 / £199.99 and is available to purchase directly from Razer’s website right now (as of August 28, 2024). It’s a price tag that’ll put it outside of many buyer’s budgets, but its quality in almost every aspect makes it well worth the investment.

A cheaper model, known as the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, will also be available. At $99.99 / £99.99, it’s much more affordable, but it’s also pared back in terms of overall build quality. Plus, you’re limited to a wired-only connection here. Otherwise, its feature set remains identical (aside from the RGB-powered Razer logo) to that of the V3 Pro. Razer is targeting a ‘Q3 2024’ release window for the V3 Tournament Edition.

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro: Specs

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro: Design and features

Sublime build quality
Standard Xbox button and stick layout
All-black aesthetic is a touch bland

There’s plenty to rave about with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, but its aesthetics may leave something to be desired if you’re an enjoyer of eye-catching gamepad designs. Its all-black design is a touch on the bland side, though the white accents on the face buttons are a welcome addition. The RGB Razer logo in the center of the controller, similarly, is a nice if understated touch.

This doesn’t mean the V3 Pro is lacking in form. It has a pleasing, rounded design that rests comfortably in the hands. That’s helped by its textured grips and wide, contoured triggers for your index fingers to neatly sit in. Otherwise, it’s your standard Xbox Wireless Controller layout complete with asymmetrical thumbsticks, central Home button, and Menu and Share buttons on either side of the Razer logo in the middle.

The V3 Pro features Hall-sensing thumbsticks which help to eliminate the risk of stick drift and increase the overall longevity of the gamepad. It’s a must for premium controllers and it’s great to see Hall effect sticks becoming the industry standard now, at least among third-party pads.

Yet it speaks volumes for the controller that its thumbsticks aren’t even the most impressive design aspect here. That would be the mechanical circular d-pad. Making use of a floating design, hovering a few millimeters above the pad itself, this feels wonderfully tactile and fun to rock around with your thumb. This also extends to the micro switch face buttons which feel similarly clicky and responsive.

The additional remappable buttons are also a fantastic addition. These were present on the V2 Pro, but the layout of the four rear buttons has been changed (they’re now horizontal and paddle-like in design) to more easily rest under your middle and ring fingers on each hand. You’ve also got a couple more remappable buttons up top nestled in between the bumpers for a total of six customizable buttons in total.

Rounding out the feature set are trigger locks that convert them from an analog to an instantaneous digital press, as well as a 3.5mm port for wired gaming headsets at the base of the controller. Finally, box contents include a carry case for the controller, two replaceable stick caps (one concave, the other convex), a 2.4GHz USB dongle, and a 10ft (3m) USB Type-C cable for wired play. The result is a controller that offers an extremely strong premium design and feature set overall.

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro: Performance

Lightning-quick actuation thanks to micro switch modules
Drift-resistant Hall effect sticks
Razer mouse click remappable buttons

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is one of the most responsive controllers I’ve ever tested here at TechRadar Gaming. The immediate actuation provided by the mechanical face buttons, circular d-pad, bumpers, and remappable buttons is divine. This naturally makes the controller incredibly satisfying to use across any genre and makes it an ideal choice for esports and competitive players.

And that is the crowd Razer is primarily gunning for with the V3 Pro. Going back to those remappable buttons, what’s especially notable here is that they implement tech that Razer uses in its gaming mice. This leads to an exceptionally satisfying click register and one that makes for an immediate actuation..

Responsiveness is clearly the prime directive for the V3 Pro, then, and it’s an incredibly accomplished controller in this regard. I typically like to map secondary button inputs onto these remappable modules if available, and the fact the V3 Pro has six of them is a delight. In terms of use cases, I’ve liked binding inputs to them in Tekken 8 for quick access to throws and Rage Arts. Guilty Gear Strive also works very well here, especially being able to bind its dash command to one of those upper buttons.

You can customize these remappable buttons (as well as all standard buttons on the controller) via the Razer Controller app available on both Xbox and PC. Here, you can also expect a litany of customizable features like stick sensitivity and vibration strength. It’s a fairly simple app overall, but serves its purpose well.

If you regularly play some of the best fighting games, the V3 Pro is absolutely a worthwhile controller for you. The circular d-pad is especially fantastic here, making trickier directional inputs all the easier thanks to the smoother travel between individual directions. That said, the overall incredible responsiveness of the controller also makes it ideal for multiplayer shooters like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.

As a bonus, if you’re playing on PC via a wired connection, you’ll get a 1,000Hz polling rate. That’s quadruple the 250Hz readout you’ll get playing on console or via the wireless connection. What this means, in essence, is that your inputs can be registered at a quicker rate, and something akin to using a gaming mouse on PC. This won’t matter to the casual player, but for folks seriously invested in online, competitive, or esports scenes, it could make all the difference in your matches.

As for battery life, I managed to get roughly 12-13 hours from the V3 Pro on a full charge. While not quite class-leading, this is still very solid and should get you through a day of gaming. You can ensure you’re never caught short by charging the controller overnight via a USB Type-C connection.

Should I buy the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro?

Buy it if...

You want exceptional gaming performance
The V3 Pro’s lightning-fast actuation across its modules makes for one of the most responsive gamepads on the market.

You want a satisfying controller experience
Tactile micro switch face buttons, d-pad, and remappable buttons allow for a brilliantly tactile play experience. The V3 Pro is one of the nicest-feeling controllers for Xbox and PC as a result.

You’re after all the pro features
Customizable from top to bottom, complete with Hall effect sticks, trigger locks and responsive connectivity both wireless and wired, the V3 Pro simply does it all.

Don't buy it if...

You’re looking for a PS5 controller
Unlike the V2 Pro, the V3 Pro currently doesn’t have a PlayStation version available, though one may be released somewhere down the line.

You’re after something more aesthetically pleasing
The V3 Pro’s all-black look is fairly bland and there are no alternative colorways. If you’d prefer something jazzier, consider one of the limited edition Xbox Wireless Controllers or the excellent GameSir Kaleid with its lavish RGB profile.

You’re not particularly competitive
While the V3 Pro is an excellent controller for any game, it’s clearly geared towards competitive and esports play. If you don’t require these higher-end features for multiplayer, consider trying out a cheaper option - some of which we’ve highlighted below.

Also consider...

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is easily one of the best Xbox controllers (and best PC controllers) on the market right now. But if it’s not quite your thing, here are a couple of alternatives to consider.

GameSir Kaleid
A budget option that hits some of the same notes, the GameSir Kaleid is a superb wallet-friendly gamepad that packs Hall effect sticks and triggers and a gorgeous translucent aesthetic complete with RGB lighting. While certainly not as premium as the V3 Pro, it’s a real workhorse controller that we readily recommend to Xbox and PC players.

Read more in our full GameSir Kaleid review.

Xbox Wireless Controller
The go-to gamepad for many, the Xbox Wireless Controller is impressively versatile and long-lasting. Its affordability and plug-and-play nature still make it one of the best around and it’s easy to recommend as an alternative if you’re just after a no-frills, no-fuss controller for Xbox or PC.

Read more in our full Xbox Wireless Controller review.

How I tested the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro

Tested over two weeks almost every day
Compared against the standard Nitro Deck
Played in handheld, and on TV and a gaming monitor via the HDMI adapter

I tested the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro over the course of a couple of weeks across Xbox Series X and PC with both wired and wireless connections. Given its position as a highly responsive, competitive-minded gamepad, I primarily tested it with a range of online multiplayer titles including Tekken 8, Guilty Gear Strive, Fortnite, Fall Guys, F1 24, and Street Fighter 6. That said, I found it to provide a brilliant play experience for all kinds of games - even single-player-focused titles like Elden Ring, Zenless Zone Zero, Cyberpunk 2077, and Fields of Mistria.

I compared the V3 Pro to my go-to PC controller, which is the much-cheaper GameSir T4 Kaleid. With its Hall effect sticks and micro switch buttons, it’s become a favorite of mine. And perhaps unsurprisingly, the V3 Pro feels like an exceptionally premium version of GameSir’s controller, albeit with even more high-end features laden on top like those sublime Razer mouse click-powered remappable buttons.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024

Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club review: an accomplished murder mystery

3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Comments: Off

Review info

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Release date: August 29, 2024

As the first new entry in the Famicom Detective Club visual novel (VN) series in almost 30 years, Emio - The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club is nothing short of a triumph and easily one of the best Nintendo Switch games right now. Building on the strong foundations laid by the underappreciated remakes of the first two games, The Missing Heir and The Girl Who Stands Behind, released back in 2021, Emio - The Smiling Man is a wonderful example of how you can successfully modernize a franchise while staying true to its roots.

Ostensibly, not much has changed since the remakes. You still play as the same young detective, though now as a 19-year-old rather than a young teenager, who is tasked with solving a sinister, almost supernatural case. You interact with the world through a series of prompts found on a small command menu, such as “Call/Engage”, “Ask/Listen”, “Look/Examine”, and “Think”.

It’s a very old-fashioned way to interact with the medium, unfolding much more like a traditional choose-your-own-adventure novel than the mechanics of other investigative VN franchises like Ace Attorney or Danganronpa. It certainly takes a little bit of getting used to at first, but is an incredibly rewarding system once you get the hang of it. Each scene is effectively a little puzzle, requiring the right combination of commands to progress.

This is perfectly encapsulated in one memorable moment where our hero arrives outside a bar. The player can hear screams coming inside. The absence of the usual “Travel” option, which would normally allow you to open the door and go in, is your cue to hit “Ask/Listen” so the protagonist can notice the sound and proceed with the appropriate level of urgency.

Chasing the bag

A body in Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. — (Image credit: Nintendo)

The underlying systems may not have changed hugely, but Emio - The Smiling Man is both considerably more intuitive and more engaging than the remakes of its predecessors. As much as I enjoyed The Missing Heir and The Girl Who Stands Behind, anybody who has played those games will know that they proceed at a frankly glacial pace. This is especially true of the first few hours, which can honestly be a little painful to sit through. Of course, this is the almost inevitable result of their age, having originally launched in 1988 and 1989 respectively for the Famicom.

Still, I was delighted to find that Emio - The Smiling Man opens with a bang and maintains that momentum for its entire runtime. The narrative begins with a schoolboy found dead, seemingly strangled, and with a creepy, smiley-faced paper bag placed on his head. It soon becomes apparent that this case is inextricably linked to the urban legend of Emio, a paper-bag-wearing killer thought to target crying schoolgirls, and a series of similar unsolved killings from 18 years ago.

Ayumi goes out for milk tea in Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. — (Image credit: Nintendo)

You are joined in your investigation by Ayumi Tachibana, another employee at your detective agency, and occasionally switch over to her perspective for a fresh look at events. This provides a refreshing change of pace and it’s surprisingly interesting to just observe the differences in how certain characters interact with the Tachibana compared to the protagonist. There is also a wide cast of supporting characters, each masterfully written with complex, varied motivations.

The subject matter of this installment is considerably darker than that of the remakes, with its fair share of grim reveals and disturbing moments. The plot is littered with red herrings and does a formidable job maintaining the suspense until it all culminates in a brilliant, dramatic conclusion that resolves almost all of the narrative’s biggest mysteries in one fell swoop. The end credits are then followed by a truly delightful surprise that immediately had me diving back in for more.

Out and about

Investigating a scene in Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. — (Image credit: Nintendo)

Best bit

The player investigates a clue in Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. — (Image credit: Nintendo)

Unlike many other visual novel games, the entire script of Emio - The Smiling Man is accompanied by full Japanese-language voice acting that truly helps the experience feel cinematic.

The overall tone may be quite bleak, but there are still plenty of amusing moments that stop things from ever becoming too oppressively miserable. Many of these are contained in easily-missable interactions, which reward you for experimenting with all of the tools at your disposal. I got a good chuckle the first time I called Tachibana on the in-game phone in the middle of a face-to-face conversation, for example, which prompted a suitably baffled reaction.

Despite this, the entire story is wholly linear which might disappoint those who prefer more exploration in their detective games. You’re occasionally asked to put your own investigative skills to the test by answering questions though, either by selecting preset options or inputting your own response with an on-screen keyboard. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but does add a pleasant extra layer of interactivity.

It also helps that background and character art are simply phenomenal across the board, with a wide variety of truly beautiful locations to pore over. Character sprites are well animated, while backgrounds are filled with moving details that really bring them to life. From the gentle swaying of trees in a light summer breeze to the passing buildings as you drive down a busy road, everything is just dripping with quality and polish.

My one complaint, bar the slightly repetitive background music, is the noticeable lack of any touchscreen support. Playing in handheld mode, these scenes are practically begging to be explored through the “Look/Examine” function. Dragging the on-screen cursor around with the thumbsticks works, but this really seems like a missed opportunity to channel some of that nostalgic Nintendo DS adventure game magic.

For this to be my only issue really goes to show what a brilliant experience it is. Whether you’re a visual novel veteran or someone new to the genre looking for an engaging, high-quality introduction, Emio - The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club simply cannot be missed.

Accessibility

Sadly, there are no dedicated accessibility features in Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. The settings menu does offer the ability to change the speed with which text is displayed, which may be useful to those with slower or faster reading speeds.

Should I play Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club?

Ayumi looks surprised in Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. — (Image credit: Nintendo)

Play it if…

Don’t play it if…

How we reviewed Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club

I played Emio - The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club for just over 14 hours. In that time I completed the entire main story and went back to the beginning to start a second playthrough. Throughout my time with the game, I played on a Nintendo Switch OLED console in both handheld and docked mode. In docked mode, I made use of a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. For audio, I relied on my trusty pair of Final VR3000 earbuds for a seriously immersive time.

While I was playing, I compared my experience to that in other visual novels such as the entire Ace Attorney series, The House in Fata Morgana, Harmony: The Fall of Reverie, Needy Streamer Overload, and more. I also evaluated how it stacks up against other detective games, such as the Sherlock Holmes games from developer Frogwares, Disco Elysium, and Paradise Killer among others.

First reviewed August 2024.

Scuf Nomad review: a solid mobile controller that struggles to stand out

2:14 pm | August 27, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Comments: Off

One-minute review

The Scuf Nomad is a good mobile controller. If you’re looking for a portable gamepad that boasts similar features to the Backbone One but makes use of Bluetooth rather than a physical connection, then this is the product for you. Having to keep its battery topped up is a little less convenient than the plug-and-play nature of wired controllers, especially as the Scuf Nomad does seem to lose charge rather quickly while not in use, but still has some advantages - namely reducing the impact on your phone’s battery life as your play.

When it comes to build quality, the Scuf Nomad ticks all of the right boxes. Like many of the best PC controllers, it feels reassuringly robust in the hands, with a good weight. It also has a very smooth extension mechanism that helps it fit snugly around your iOS phone. Its smooth plastic exterior looks good and features some pleasant tactile elements, like the slightly softer textured rear grips, too. Although not mechanical, the face buttons and d-pad are comfortable to use and responsive despite their relatively small size.

Its Hall effect thumbsticks are also decent, though feel extremely loose compared to much of the competition. I personally didn’t mind this and found it to be a good fit for fast-paced titles like Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile and Zenless Zone Zero, but it could be a dealbreaker for those who want something to play slower role-playing games (RPGs) like Stardew Valley.

While the thumbsticks are concave by default, two alternate convex thumbstick shapes are also included in the box. This is a great inclusion on paper, but the method of swapping between them is incredibly fiddly and not something that you would realistically want to do more than once - if at all. It’s a shame, as these minor frustrations are what holds the Scuf Nomad back from greatness.

The SCUF Nomad without a phone on a colorful desk mat. — (Image credit: Future)

Scuf Nomad: Price and availability

$99.99 / £89.99 / around AU$179.99
Available via Scuf and Amazon
No Android edition for now

The Scuf Nomad is available for $99.99 / £89.99 / around AU$179.99 either directly from Scuf or at online retailers like Amazon. This price point puts it roughly on par with the cost of a Backbone One, which is clearly the product that Scuf intends this controller to compete with.

Although a Bluetooth device, the Scuf Nomad is not compatible with Android devices - a fact that is clearly stated on the box and store listings. I found that the controller does actually pair with an Android device, though it does not function correctly in most games, for example by failing to register certain inputs.

While the sample provided for review came in black, the Scuf Nomad is also available in a rather striking white and gray colorway.

Scuf Nomad: Specs

The thumbsticks of the Scuf Nomad. — (Image credit: Future)

Scuf Nomad: Design and features

The design of the Scuf Nomad has clearly taken plenty of cues from the overall form factor of the Backbone One. It features a similar extending back mechanism, though it feels considerably smoother and higher quality on the Scuf Nomad which is definitely a welcome upgrade.

The area where your phone rests is also home to a really lovely grippy texture that features a subtle hexagonal design that looks a little bit like camouflage from a distance - a brilliant little nod to the Scuf brand’s roots in first-person shooters (FPS) accessories and a practical addition that helps keep your phone firmly in place. There is also a small slot for a rubber adapter, which you can slide in easily and helps create a little more room for larger phones.

The two grips are both a little thicker than those on the Backbone One, making them noticeably more comfortable for those with larger hands. They are also a more ergonomic shape, plus each features a customizable rear input in addition to the usual face buttons, thumbsticks, shoulder buttons, and triggers. While the thumbsticks are Hall effect, the buttons and d-pad are not mechanical which is a little disappointing given the clear focus on premium-feeling components elsewhere.

I was also unimpressed by the two included alternate thumbstick tips, which are a more convex design. The process of swapping between these tips is incredibly fiddly and annoying, involving plenty of pushing and pulling with an uncomfortable degree of force that had me convinced that I was about to break the controller. It’s not a process that I would ever want to repeat.

The rear remappable inputs of the Scuf Nomad. — (Image credit: Future)

On the bottom of the left grip, you can find a USB-C port, which is used to charge the controller with a high-quality braided USB-C cable that is included in the box. On the other side, there is a small Bluetooth pairing button, which puts the controller into pairing mode. The only other notable design element is the four LED lights positioned next to the Menu Button. These illuminate to denote the controller’s current battery level or pairing status.

The Scuf Nomad’s most significant features are all accessed through the aptly named Scuf Nomad Mobile Companion App. This includes the ability to quickly launch compatible games, update controller firmware, and save a wide range of customizable profiles. You can seriously tweak almost any aspect of the controller in these profiles from trigger dead zones to thumbstick sensitivity, and even assign new buttons to every single input.

There are also a range of presets available for the thumbsticks and triggers, which would be perfect for those just eager to dive right into games with the ideal setup. It’s also worth noting that the app does not require any subscription services to access all of its features, which is noteworthy in the face of the Backbone Plus membership offered with the Backbone app.

Image 1 of 3

The Scuf Nomad companion app. — (Image credit: SCUF)

Image 2 of 3

Image 3 of 3

Scuf Nomad: Performance

I found the performance of the Scuf Nomad to be fairly impressive across the board. It sits comfortably in the hands and offers a good level of responsiveness, despite relying on only a Bluetooth connection. The small d-pad and buttons are easy to reach and well-suited for rapid presses. The thumbsticks are also a good size, but it is worth noting that they do feel particularly loose which might not be for everyone.

There was one notable occasion where the triggers and left thumbstick stopped working entirely halfway through a battle royale game. This was incredibly annoying but fixed by quickly rebooting the controller, so likely the result of a connection issue rather than any hardware problems. It was also not repeated again during my hands-on testing of the controller, so does not seem to be a persistent issue.

I played my usual gauntlet of Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile matches, plus some cloud gaming via Amazon Luna and plenty of time in Zenless Zone Zero, and found every part of the experience to be on par with the Backbone One and Razer Kishi Ultra V2 - which is to say more than acceptable for the price.

The only real issue that I did notice was that, while the controller boasts up to 16 hours of battery life (which appeared to be accurate in my testing), it does seem to deplete charge quickly between uses. If I made sure to charge it up in the morning, things were okay but there were some occasions where I took it out of my bag after a few days of no use only to find the controller completely out of juice.

Whether the result of the controller turning itself on during my travels or a less-than-stellar battery, it’s pretty unfortunate. Luckily, it does charge quickly and can be played from dead after just 20 minutes - so this didn’t cause much of a problem in the times when I had access to a plug socket.

The Scuf Nomad and a mobile phone on a colorful desk mat. — (Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Scuf Nomad?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

If you’re not keen on what the Scuf Nomad has to offer, then consider these two excellent alternatives.

How I tested the Scuf Nomad

Tested over the course of month
Used with an iPhone 15 Plus ts

I tested the Scuf Nomad over the course of a month, using it a few times a week as my primary mobile gaming controller. During that time I played plenty of mobile titles including the recently released Zenless Zone Zero and Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile in addition to some cloud gaming on Amazon Luna. I used the controller with an iPhone 15 Plus and was careful to experiment with all of its hardware and software features via the compatible Scuf Nomad Mobile Companion App.

Throughout the testing period, I compared my experience to my hands-on testing of other mobile controllers including the Backbone One, Razer Kishi Ultra, Razer Kishi V2, Turtle Beach Atom, ROG Tessen, GameSir X2s Type-C, GameSir X2 Pro, and much more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024

Star Wars Outlaws review: the open-world Star Wars adventure you’ve been looking for

3:00 pm | August 26, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: Star Wars | Comments: Off

Review info

Platform reviewed: PS5
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
Release date: August 30, 2024 (August 27 for Gold and Ultimate Edition owners)

Star Wars Outlaws promises the excitement of being a scoundrel and rogue in the famous sci-fi universe - and it delivers brilliantly on this, with everything being housed in an authentic Star Wars setting, aesthetic, and experience.

Everything in this action-adventure game from serial third-person open-world makers Ubisoft (its Massive Entertainment studio, specifically) combines to make for a fulsome, moreish, and compelling experience. Be it undermining the crime syndicates, stealthing through strongholds with your companion Nix to steal specific treasures, roaming the lands for experts to learn skills from, or soaking up the beautiful worlds and vistas on offer, there’s rogueish enjoyment around every corner. There are Ubisoft fingerprints all over Outlaws too with new variants on The Division’s pulse mechanic, eavesdropping from Assassin’s Creed, and the hacking from Watch Dogs; while it’s familiar when such things all come together, the payoff is a thrill.

It’s not totally blemish-free, however, and some characteristically Ubisoft open-world-isms, including quest repetition and labored and pedestrian traversal sections which are grating and make the experience stutter.

Far, far away

A screenshot of a crashed ship in Star Wars Outlaws — (Image credit: Ubisoft/LucasFilm Games)

Outlaws’ open-world experience not only offers an open-world experience for discovery, exploration, and enjoying beautiful places that channels the pedigree Ubisoft has for making beautiful and expansive worlds. Outlaws serves up some incredible vistas and stunning environments - that aren’t covered in a carpet of question marks - to explore. but a desire and deliver them authentically too.

Complementing that is a dedication to Star Wars authenticity in everything from aesthetics and styles, to audio and overall ambience. It really is a true Star Wars experience and feels like it constantly, earning its place in the universe’s canon (Outlaws officially takes place between the The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi films). The beeps of droids and machines, the alien-language chatter in cantinas, the construction of buildings, ships, and apparel all feel ripped right from the screen.

This is on top of beautifully realized landscapes such as the expansive emptiness of Tatooine or the lush verdancy of Akiva, and wonderfully immersive and detailed cities like the wintry urban setting of Kijimi City (my personal favorite place in the game so far).

Getting between these planets is easy and smooth in Kay’s spaceship, The Trailblazer, with the transitions between space travel, landing, and exiting the ship being exceptionally cool and swift. On-planet travel on a speeder is a little less exciting, particularly after a while, however. It was fun for a while, getting to know how this shopping cart-come-wheel-less-motorcycle accelerates, handles, and turns, but it didn’t take me that long to start comfortably relying on fast travel locations or bombing in straight lines on my speeder between locations.

You like me because I'm a scoundrel

A screenshot of Kay and Nix sneaking in a stronghold in Star Wars Outlaws — (Image credit: Ubisoft/LucasFilm Games)

Navigating these worlds and places as protagonist Kay Vess with her animal companion Nix, however, is what truly brings the game to life.

Kay is a likable protagonist and is a tremendous ‘normal’ person to explore the galaxies through, free from The Force and all that lightsaber nonsense. The Han Solo inspiration is clear, though she’s a rogue and scoundrel who stands on her own two feet with clear strengths and distinction between her and Harrison Ford’s iconic character.

One of the clearest demonstrations of this is in her relationship with Nix, her animal companion. Nix feels like much more than ‘just’ a sidekick or travel buddy; there’s clearly an incredibly strong bond here, with the pair doing everything together. They even eat street food together in wholesome quicktime events which is a great microcosm of their relationship - the food even ends up giving Nix bonuses or extra little skills to deploy, too. As a result, I quickly became very invested in their relationship, which helped one particular rescue mission particularly resonate with me.

Best bit

Kay Vess looking at a screen in a dark room in Star Wars Outlaws — (Image credit: Massive Entertainment)

Living out a Star Wars scoundrel fantasy as a normal person in the sci-fi universe is one of Outlaw's greatest strengths. I’ve consistently had the most fun when I’m scratching around cities for credits, chasing weird parts for my gear, stealing items to play off syndicates against each other, and tracking down experts to teach me skills.

In practical application, however, Nix accentuates and complements Kay’s scoundrel and thief-like action in-game. Nix can help in combat by taking enemies out temporarily, and is a great boon in stealth, recovering items, powering off devices, and distracting guards while you stay undetected.

This scoundrel roleplay you can engage Kay in is perhaps the greatest strength of the game, too. On a micro-scale and macro scale: from the moment to moment, sneaking, lockpicking, and hacking through bases to lift high-value items, planning searches for parts and upgrades for your, blaster, speeder, or ship, and going on a multitude of missions and side quests to change your standings with the crime syndicates, it’s a brilliant rogue’s life.

In fact, planning and engaging in all the scoundrelly side content in the game is where most of the game’s best depth and interest lies: there’s so much to do and think about and you can get so much out of contracts, intel chasing to fill out your journal with tasks and quests, loitering in places to pick up on overheard conversations, and general exploration, while the mini-game of Sabacc (a card game) is a seriously moreish addition. Where’s the standalone version, Ubisoft?

Never tell me the odds

A screenshot of Kay and Nix walking in the snow in Kijimi City in Star Wars Outlaws — (Image credit: Ubisoft/LucasFilm Games)

The missions and quests in Star Wars Outlaws have some of the best places and environments in the game. They’re very deliberate settings that make for great self-contained adventures, such as the rusting remains of huge ships.

These come further alive when applying Key’s stealthy and sneaky approach, taking advantage of the multiple routes that are almost always open to you. Stealthing through missions to quietly turn off alarms, set off distractions, silently take down guards, and sabotage equipment is a thrill. It reinforces the fact that Kay is a normal person, a thief, and a rogue, and so has to reply being sneaky. Perfecting infiltrations as such a comparatively underpowered character is incredibly satisfying.

However, such missions also house some of my biggest frustrations with the game. There is some annoying checkpointing in some which can lead to big chunks of progress lost if you make the smallest mistake. Some of the side quests too can fall into the trap of being repetitive, following that very well-trodden and familiar pattern of: ‘go to the place, infiltrate the place, find the thing in the place, shoot some baddies in the place, leave the place.’ Almost all missions will involve similar infiltration tactics too, such as finding vents to bypass areas, scaling cliff edges and building ledges, and climbing ladders. There are a lot of ladders.

It certainly doesn’t help that traversal feels very plain. While Kay’s grappling hook is a great tool to have, it can only be used in a few spots and with quite sluggish animations. Worse still, the Uncharted-esque scaling of walls and grates feels boring, overly simplistic, and is just highly forgettable.

A rogue's toolkit

A screenshot of Kay and Nix using the grappling hook in a stronghold in Star Wars Outlaws — (Image credit: Ubisoft/LucasFilm Games)

That said, completing said missions with the rest of Kay’s abilities and toolset is a highlight. While she can ‘slice’ (hack) her way into security systems and computers by cracking (simple) codes by matching symbols, her data spike is the best of the bunch and demands some skills to use. It has you match inputs rhythmically to a click sound and light flash on the lock to break it open by matching the pattern.

In a clever twist on leveling up and acquiring skills and abilities, Kay has to find the right expert to teach her said abilities. It makes sense and matches the scoundrel lifestyle she leads - she only gets better at things when she learns them. As a result, skills feel truly earned. This also neatly ties in progression to world-building - and vice versa - successfully making you and your actions feel part of an active world, not someone passing through it to pick up points transiently.

I didn’t collect all the experts on my playthrough and definitely missed out on some helpful tools and abilities as a result, so it really is worth gathering them up when you have the chance.

Another brilliant skill is Kay’s slick adrenaline ability that enables her to tag and dead-eye blast enemies. It’s not something I haven’t seen before, but still feels worthy of Han Solo himself and is even more satisfying when hightailing it across a landscape while being chased by stormtroopers.

Speaking of blasters, Kay has three types of ammunition by default: basic plasms, an Ion one for disrupting shields and some enemies, and a charged powerful shot. Her blaster can also be upgraded as you go, offering different variations of delivering blasts, boosts to recharges, and more.

Hand-to-hand combat is okay on the whole, with each punch delivering a decent level of impact. There are some cool moves or finishers that can happen depending on where you are, though the stealth takedowns are a bit disappointing. They feel sluggish and the time they take Kay to perform can be annoying when you’re trying to quickly move between targets or areas undetected.

Playing the game

Kay Vess meets a Hutt — (Image credit: Ubisoft)

Another major factor to consider is the crime syndicate and reputation system - it’s a seriously meaningful mechanic that tangbily impacts how you play the game.

There are four crime syndicates, with at least two inhabiting each world vying for power and influence. Kay has to make the best of fluctuating relationships with all of them and her reputation quickly changes along a scale with every completed mission. The four different stages of approval noticeably change how the factions interact with you, from goons that shoot you on-site all the way to getting preferential treatment and exclusive access.

While you can earn favor from all the syndicates separately, it’s incredibly difficult, bordering impossible, to achieve this at the same time - instead you’ll have to constantly balance being in favor with some with being out of favor with others. This adds jeopardy and meaning to your choices, forcing you to think carefully about decisions, such as dialogue choices that can sway the outcome of a mission in an instnat, and what quests you want or need to do.

It's a familiar combination, sir, but it checks out

Much like other Ubisoft open-world games, when each element of Star Wars Outlaws comes together it makes for some compelling magic that’s brilliant fun.

Part of me feels frustrated by the flaws in the game and the truly amazing adventure that it could have been, but then another part of me can’t wait to get back to being an inter-planetary scoundrel, navigating the seedy underbelly of the Outer Rim. It has its faults but Star Wars Outlaws is easily one of the most enjoyable games I’ve played this year and must for any Star Wars fans.

Accessibility

Star Wars Outlaws has numerous accessibility options, and its dedicated menu splits them up into five areas: gameplay, cognitive, colors, vision, and hearing. We’ve attached images of all of them below to give you an insight into what’s on offer.

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Star Wars Outlaws accessibility screenshot — (Image credit: Ubisoft/LucasFilm Games)

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As well as the dedicated difficulty options in the accessibility menu, there are also a host of other options that can be played around with to get the right balance for you, from visual changes to mini-game mechanics.

Should I play Star Wars Outlaws?

Play it if...

You’ve been yearning for an open-world Star Wars game and experience
Star Wars Outlaws is a tremendously fun open-world game to explore. It simply magical to mess around in the rich settings it has and the wider Star Wars universe and is perfect for fans to immerse themselves in.

You want to be an interplanetary rapscallion
Working in the underworld of the Star Wars universe is a joy and makes for some really fun experiences, missions, and political machinations. If working like a rogue is of interest to you, then this is going to be a winner.

You revel in Ubisoft-style open-world games
If you enjoy playing other open-world adventures from the developer where there’s plenty to do and get your teeth into, then Outlaws will be perfect thanks to its abundance of compelling side content.

Don't play it if...

You want a bombastic lightsaber-wielding Force-driven adventure
One of Star Wars Outlaws’ greatest strengths is playing as a regular person with no special Jedi-like abilities. If you’re all about lightsabers and slicing down imperial guards, then you should try the Star Wars Jedi series instead.

How I reviewed Star Wars Outlaws

I have played roughly 25 hours of Star Wars Outlaws and managed to complete the main storyline as well as a host of other quests, missions, and exploration. However, I still have plenty to do, including recruiting a couple of experts, so I’m excited to jump back in.

Playing the PS5 version, I tested both graphical (performance and quality) and resolution (full screen, 16:9 and 21:9) settings. I found the performance mode better for play and quality making the worlds look even more beautiful. When it comes to resolution I found the fullscreen option was superior as the cinematic one removed a whole lot of screen and game instantly.

I tested the game with a regular DualSense Wireless Controller, and played the game on my Samsung Q6F 4K QLED TV and Samsung HW-J6500 curved soundbar I also played some when plugged into the PS5 Pulse Elite headset and SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset. I also played a fair chunk on my PlayStation Portal combined with my Pulse Explore earbuds and found the game was a great match for the PS5 remote play device.

Thrustmaster T-GT II force feedback wheel review: as good as belt-driven force feedback gets

2:00 pm | August 25, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: Forza Horizon, PC | Comments: Off

Thrustmaster T-GT II: One-minute review

The mid-range of the best racing wheels is a tricky space where competing technologies vie for space, but Thrustmaster makes a compelling argument with a wheel, wheelbase, and pedals bundled for $799.99 / £699.99.

That’s a lot pricier than Logitech’s all-conquering G923 bundle, but the advantages are clear: a quick-release system that lets you install new wheels and a particularly refined force feedback sensation that feels somewhere between traditional belt-driven and direct-drive servos. The underlying tech is still belt-driven, but it’s been engineered so carefully to deliver its considerable power smoothly and convincingly, with fewer of those notchy, snappy moments you usually get with belt-driven motors.

The controls on the wheel feel premium and long-lasting, particularly the four notched dials, which are really handy for mapping traction control, brake balance, engine modes, and fuel maps. Being a licensed wheel for Gran Turismo 7 and pitched as one of the best PS5 racing wheels, the giant ‘GT’ logo at the center of the wheel won’t be to everyone’s taste, and the overall look of the wheel - and particularly the plasticky pedal base - does this bundle a disservice. Despite the high volume of plastic and a slightly ‘gamey’ look this is up to the task for serious sim racers, who’ll appreciate the ability to fit different wheels for different disciplines.

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Price and availability

$799.99 / £699.99 (around) AU$1,221.99
Sits between entry-level force feedback and direct drive wheels
Pricier but more feature-laden than a G923

It might look like a lot of money for a non-direct drive wheel at first glance, but it all makes sense after a few hot laps. The wiser money would be spent investing in a Fanatec Ready2Race McLaren bundle for the same price, but ongoing stock availability issues make that a tricky purchase as of summer 2024.

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Specs

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Design and features

Looks inspired by Gran Turismo
Bulky servo
Feels better than it looks

There’s a line in the sand in sim racing gear. On one side, Moza and Fanatec have decided to take their visual cues directly from motorsport, rather than gaming peripherals. Their wheels and pedals look like they’ve been crowbarred out of a racing car and attached to your desk. On the other, Logitech and Thrustmaster - who also make a broad range of gaming peripherals besides wheels - have a design philosophy that sits closer to gaming mice, gaming keyboards, and gaming headsets.

Who’s right? That’s totally subjective, of course. To me the less automotive appearance of the T-GT II comes off as a bit less premium than this bundle really is, particularly the plastic casing around the servo and on the pedal base, which really doesn’t look like it should be part of an $800 / £700 racing bundle.

However, these aesthetic missteps have no bearing on the performance of either the wheels or pedals, and since the wheel’s detachable, you could replace it with a more motorsport-inspired option like Thrustmaster’s Ferrari SF100 if you like.

The wheel itself is finished in nicely stitched pleather which makes for a grippy surface while you’re racing, with no need for racing gloves, unlike pricier Alcantara-finished wheels which can get a bit crispy over time if you subject them to your palm sweat.

Being a PlayStation-compatible wheel as well as PC, all the DualSense controller’s inputs are mapped onto input buttons on the wheel itself, including two tiny analog sticks. Four dials complete the input array on the wheel face, and satisfyingly chunky paddle shifters with magnetic actuation sit at the rear. All the buttons feel substantial and the dials in particular are a joy to use, notched and manufactured from aluminum for a lovely weighty feel. The analog sticks and d-pad feel flimsy by comparison, but I didn’t find myself using them - there are plenty of other buttons to map important inputs to.

Those four dials are the stars of the show. They’re placed conveniently within thumb’s reach, and having four of them is especially useful in games like Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC), where I find myself adjusting traction control and brake bias frequently from lap to lap as track conditions and tire wear levels evolve. It’s rare to find more than two dials on wheels at this price, and I find myself missing having four now when I use other wheels.

The pedals don’t feature a load cell design, so you can’t swap out the cells to adjust the resistance, but they are built with convincing resistance per pedal. The brake is particularly well-judged for stiffness, and you can add an additional rubber stay for some increased resistance right at the end of its path of travel.

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Performance

Powerful but smooth force feedback delivery
Easy to calibrate
Recognized by most racing games

Let’s quickly state the obvious: although this wheel was designed in collaboration with Gran Turismo developer Polyphony Digital and bears the PlayStation racer’s branding, it’s compatible across pretty much every racing game you throw at it on PS5 or PC. Assetto Corsa Competizione and F1 24 had profiles ready to go as soon as I loaded them up with the T-GT II connected, and I had no problems setting it up in The Crew Motorfest or Forza Horizon 5. You’d expect pretty much universal support across racing titles in 2024, and this wheel delivers it.

What discerns the force feedback on this wheel from the perennially popular Logitech G923, and indeed Thrustmaster’s own cheaper wheels, is the smoothness and detail of its feedback. It’s a subtle difference, not quite akin to the jump from belt-driven to direct-drive wheels, but it’s particularly noticeable in demanding sims like Assetto Corsa Competizione, whose force feedback implementation is absolutely exemplary. You can feel when your platform’s on the very limit, and rather than getting those snappy moments that feel like something inside the servo has let go, the T-GT II’s wheel stays smooth even when it’s doling out extremely forceful feedback.

In some instances, it feels too strong. In most games, the centering spring strength needed some adjustment using a combination of in-game settings and Thrustmaster’s own Control Panel software, and in ACC in particular I ended up reducing it down to as little as 20 per cent in order to find a realistic feel. However, once you do get a convincing feel dialed in, the detail and fidelity you feel through your hands is extremely impressive.

What about Gran Turismo 7? As you’d expect, it’s excellent with this wheel. Polyphony’s is a particularly weighty handling model in the first place, and it’s perfectly tuned to this wheel when you connect it to your PS5.

However, the fact remains that direct-drive wheel bundles are available at the same price point, and that makes life difficult for this particular wheel. It’s demonstrably better than its belt-driven contemporaries from other manufacturers, and lower down the Thrustmaster range. But it’s no match for a setup built around Fanatec’s CSL direct drive servo. Cheaper Fanatec bundles than the T-GT II generally feature an inferior two-pedal set, but the Ready2Race McLaren bundle uses a three-pedal base with load cells, and the McLaren GT-style wheel feels more luxurious and automotive than this model.

The best mandate for opting for this instead of a Fanatec bundle, then, is that you play primarily on PS5, put in a lot of hours with Gran Turismo 7, and want to use the same setup for some PC sim racing.

Should I buy the Thrustmaster T-GT II?

Buy it if...

Gran Turismo 7 is your go-to racing sim
This wheel’s PS5 and PC compatible, and designed in partnership with Polyphony to work especially well in GT7. Drifting a Demio never felt better.

You like a powerful force feedback sensation
The centering spring is set heavy by default, and there’s a lot of power behind the feedback going into your hands.

You plan to swap between multiple wheels
Like to race rally titles as well as F1 games and GT? Thrustmaster’s add-on wheels are a solid option for making your rig more customizable, all using the T-GT II wheelbase.

Don't buy it if...

You race on Xbox
It’s not Xbox-compatible, simple as that. Fanatec and Logitech offer better PC/Xbox bundles for the money.

Direct drive bundles are within your budget
As impressive as the sensation is for a belt-driven motor, DD is a superior feel and it’s available for roughly the same outlay.

You’re new to sim racing
It’s a lot of money for a racing bundle, and the benefits to its feel are subtle. Logitech’s G923 is better suited to beginners, and comes in PC/Xbox and PC/PlayStation varieties.

Also consider...

If the Thrustmaster T-GT II isn’t quite what you’re after, alert yourself to these other candidates.

Thrustmaster T248
A cheaper, less powerful option that’s great for newcomers, if lacking centering spring snap. Surprisingly good pedals for the price, too.

For more information, check out our full Thrustmaster T248 review

Logitech G923
It’s ubiquitous for a reason. Well-built, a smart button layout, and Trueforce feedback add something extra to supported games when it comes to detailed articulation.

For more information, check out our full Logitech G923 review

How I tested the Thrustmaster T-GT II

Over a month of regular use during testing
Used with PC and PS5
Racing sims and arcade titles tested

We installed the T-GT II into our Playseat and used it as our daily driver in Assetto Corsa Competizione, Gran Turismo 7, The Crew Motorfest, and Forza Horizon 5 for a month of virtual racing on both PC and PlayStation 5. You don’t want to know how much of a hassle it was to get the rig downstairs in front of the PS5...

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

Alienware AW3225QF review: 4K 240Hz OLED gaming glory

2:00 pm | August 24, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: HDR, OLED, OSD, Total War | Comments: Off

Alienware AW3225QF: Two-minute review

QD-OLED 4K gaming screens these days are becoming more numerous. That can make it particularly difficult to pin down a model that’s just right for you, with the right spec, at the right price. Fortunately, Alienware’s AW3225QF might well be the best gaming monitor of the bunch, certainly today. It’s not cheap, but the build quality, image quality, specs, warranties, and overall design do give it a considerable edge in contrast to some of its competition, and go a long way to justify its price tag.

Top-line stats are out of this world. The true panel size actually falls at around 31.6 inches, giving you a pixel density of 139.87 dpi. Combine that with a 240Hz max refresh rate, broad color depth thanks to that impressive individual illuminated QD-OLED tech, and a solid 250-nits brightness on SDR content, plus a 2.1 ms MPRT response time, and this thing soon becomes a top-tier choice rather rapidly.

If you’ve got the graphical horsepower to drive it at 4K, gaming it on is unlike anything else. Even without HDR, titles like The Witcher 3, Elden Ring, and Cyberpunk 2077 look and feel exceptional. Textures are crisp and sharp, anti-aliasing smooth as butter, and that refresh rate combined with G-Sync (or FreeSync) just delivers an event unlike any other. Is this the best gaming monitor money can buy? On PC, it’s a close bet.

Still, that price tag is a lot to swallow, and for some, the 32-inch 16:9 form factor can be particularly difficult to adapt to, especially if you’re used to the 21:9 or ultrawide aspect ratios. While the 240Hz refresh rate takes it beyond what the modern consoles can achieve, it’s still a belter of a PS5 monitor or Xbox Series X monitor; it will automatically pivot to 120Hz and you still get that brilliant image quality, colors, curved immersion and everything else the monitor offers.

The Alienware AW3225QF QD-OLED monitor on a desk — (Image credit: Future/Zak Storey)

Alienware AW3225QF: Price and availability

Seriously pricey
Readily available from parent company Dell
Flagship spec is unmatched

You can buy Alienware’s AW3225QF both in the US and the UK right now and it’s readily available at parent company Dell. It’s based on Samsung’s QD-OLED panel tech, as a result, there are five total models out there from different brands and manufacturers, all with effectively the same screen at their core.

Alienware’s is the second most expensive offering with both the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P and Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM coming in joint first, for typically an extra $100 / £100 added on top. MSI’s MPG 321URX QD-OLED is the cheapest of the bunch, but again only by $50-100 so not exactly bank-breaking, and you do get a worse stand if you’re going that route.

Otherwise, top-line specs remain the same, 3840x2160 resolution over a 31.6-inch panel, 240Hz max refresh rate, and 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, all packed into a 16:9 aspect ratio. Alienware’s stand and cabling solution does look the slickest out of the lot, and it’s opted for a curved screen, giving it a unique edge over the competition.

Alienware AW3225QF: Specs

The Alienware AW3225QF QD-OLED monitor stand on a desk — (Image credit: Future/Zak Storey)

Alienware AW3225QF: Design and features

3rd Gen OLED delivers hard
Super-low response times leads to no ghosting
HDR in Windows is carnage still

Straight out of the box, the AW3225QF is a thing of beauty to behold. General construction is a breeze, the stand comes in two parts, the main neck, and the base. You attach those two together and secure them with a single thick screw at the bottom. Then with the panel carefully placed on a table or desk, you slide and click the stand into place behind it and you’re done. There’s a release button on the back, and that’s about it. Super fast, super easy. At the base of the panel itself, there’s a removable cover to hide all your cable management, and a hollowed-out segment of the stand helps run your cables and keep everything hidden and out of the way behind the monitor.

The stand is seriously sweet, with a wide-based stance, decked out in a matt white plastic that does give it somewhat of an imperial empire vibe, but it works really incredibly well for an aesthetic. On the rear of the panel, Alienware’s baked in some fairly minimal RGB lighting. It’s okay, and not particularly bright, which feels like a bit of a misstep, certainly with the amount of RGB LED ambient lighting solutions out there right now.

But let’s be clear here, it’s the panel on this 4K gaming monitor that’s the show stopper. It’s a beautiful design, with thin bezels and a slight curve to it (1700R) with a 31.6-inch radius and a gloss finish. There’s some Alienware branding at the very bottom of the screen, but once again in no way is it distracting or even that visible.

The Alienware AW3225QF QD-OLED monitor's rear ports on a desk — (Image credit: Future/Zak Storey)

Still, it’s the top-line spec of the thing that really draws you in. The AW3225QF packs in a 3840x2160 resolution into that 31.6-inches, complete with 240Hz refresh (DSC enabled) and a 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time (2.1 ms MPRT in testing). The panel itself is actually Samsung Display’s QD-OLED third gen, which was showcased first at CES in January 2024. Compared to second-gen, it features a Quantum Enhancer AI processor that’s bespoke for each panel directly, Samsung claims this should increase panel durability by a factor of two, along with providing improved brightness and power efficiency over the last-gen models. Samsung’s also using a new Pico-inkjet printer technology to produce a higher quality quantum-dot layer (the part of the panel that applies the color to each pixel), which is now more accurate and efficient, making it cheaper and easier to mass produce the screen tech. That means we should see the price of these panels fall dramatically over the course of the year.

On top of that barrage of specs there, the AW3225QF also features G-Sync certification, Free-Sync support, and Vesa’s AdaptiveSync certification eliminating screen tearing, alongside HDR support for Dolby Vision and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400.

The Alienware AW3225QF QD-OLED monitor's rear on a desk — (Image credit: Future/Zak Storey)

Alienware AW3225QF: Performance

Outstanding gaming experience
240Hz is a game changer
HDR in Windows is still underwhelming

I’ve been testing gaming and professional monitors since I started in tech journalism many years ago, and I can wholeheartedly say that this screen is something else.

240Hz refresh rate, combined with a 4K resolution and that super low 2.1 ms MPRT, it’s just outstanding. There’s not a moment in game, certainly on PC, where you’re not impressed by it. Going from 60Hz to 120 or 144Hz feels good, really good. It’s smooth, but you can tell there’s still judder there. Going to 240Hz though, it’s like frames become incomparable at that point. It’s as close to real life as it gets, in how fluid it is, as long as your graphics card can drive it at that refresh rate, and that is going to be the bigger challenge.

We do have tech to help alleviate some of those issues. DLSS and FSR, along with Nvidia’s Frame Generation tech make a massive difference here. Still even with the very best of that tech-enabled, and in its lowest configuration, if you take something like an RTX 4080 Super, and run Cyberpunk 2077 with DLSS in its Ultra Performance mode (and put up with the terrible anti-aliasing as a result) you’re still not going to max out that 240Hz refresh rate. AAA titles require a seriously beefy graphics card. That said, if you’re playing older games, or less graphically intense titles that don’t have 200 rays bouncing around the environment, it’s unlike anything else, and arguably becomes one of the best high-refresh gaming monitors as a result. Ghosting is non-existent, every test I ran it through I couldn’t spot any of it, but that is a tell-tale trait of a good OLED panel after all.

As for general content streaming. Netflix, Amazon Prime. It’s equally such a joy to use, the HDR support is rich and vibrant, and impeccably immersive, the colors are deep and saturated where they need to be, and it’s truly tantalizing. There are problems, however, and that mostly comes down to how Windows handles HDR in particular. On desktop, It’s still a mess, with a cornucopia of settings, and if you don’t get it right it looks and feels washed out in general day-to-day web browsing, and underwhelming on video content. Likewise, Alienware also included an arsenal of HDR profiles and settings on the display itself to further add to the confusion, with some profiles working well in one bright scene, only to fall foul in a darker scene two seconds later. It’s problematic, but still more of a general issue in HDR on PC anyway, with less to do with the actual display itself.

Similarly, there’s a total of 12 different preset modes by default even for SDR content. All of which slightly tweak brightness, contrast, and color warmth. In my opinion, SPORTS or Standard modes are the way to go out of the box.

There's not a noticeable difference between gaming on PS5 and PC with the Alienware AW3225QF. It provides beautiful imagery, excellent gaming performance, and one of the best monitor companions you can get for the current-gen consoles. The only caveat is that, naturally, as it's built with a PC focus, you won't be able to get all the benefits of its top-draw specs, like the maximum refresh rate. If you're you're looking for the absolute best monitor to team with a PS5 or Xbox Series X or gaming on a dual PC and console setup, then it's perfect for you. However, it is worth bearing in mind that you can probably save a few bucks elsewhere for a PS5 monitor if you're savvy in choosing the right spec combination.

Alienware’s AW3225QF is ultimately an exceptional screen. If money is no option, it may well be one of the best gaming monitors out there right now. It's fast, crystal clear, with low latency, and a beautiful color depth and brightness that really does give it an edge over the previous generations of OLED. Better yet it’s leaps and bounds ahead of anything that even the best LCD panel can muster. If you’re after the absolute best of the best, the AW3225QF is it.

Should you buy the Alienware AW3225QF?

Buy it if...

You want the best 4K gaming experience available
With a super sharp resolution and an outstanding refresh rate, combined with low latency and phenomenal color breadth, the AW3225QF is on another level when it comes to 4K gaming on PC or current-gen console.

You’re concerned about OLED burn-in
Not only do Samsung’s third-gen OLED panels come with an enhanced AI chip to double the life expectancy, Alienware’s also include a three-year burn-in warranty as well.

Don't buy it if...

You’re looking for a wallet-friendly QD-OLED model
It’s the second highest priced QD-OLED of this generation, with Asus and Gigabyte models pipping it to the post, but only just. There are cheaper options out there.

You want simple HDR
HDR in Windows is complicated enough, but multiple HDR profiles don’t help on Alienware’s AW3225QF.

Also consider

If the Alienware AW3225QF isn't quite for you then consider these great alternatives of different screen resolutions to widen your search.

MSI MPG271QRX

Looking for something a little slimmer, easier to drive with your gaming PC, but still packs in that impressive QD-OLED high refresh punch with primo color accuracy? The 271QRX is a good pick, and with a 360Hz refresh rate, it’s truly outstanding to behold.

Read our full review of the MSI MPG 271QRX here.

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9

There’s something to be said for that what twin 27-inch screens side-by-side offers. Samsung cut out the middle bezel and combined two OLED panels into one with the G9, and it is faultless if you’re after a 32:9 gaming behemoth.

Read our full review of the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 here.

How I tested the Alienware AW3225QF

Tested for multiple weeks across a variety of games and platforms
Professional industry tests applied
OSD fully explored

To put the AW3225QF through its paces I used it as my primary office monitor for three weeks before testing, and the write-up. I used it side-by-side next to a Viewsonic VP3268a-4K, a professionally calibrated artwork and creative 100% sRGB display.

I tested the AW3225QF through a multitude of different content types, including gaming across The Witcher 3, Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree, and Total War: Warhammer III. I also streamed YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime on it, with both SDR and HDR content. Additionally, I tested it using a Playstation 5, and took advantage of Blur Busters array of tests to diagnose any ghosting, or MPRT issues too.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024

Audio-Technica AT2040USB microphone review: Budget-friendly and studio-quality

6:00 pm | August 23, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: USB | Comments: Off

Audio-Technica AT2040USB: One-minute review

It used to be this simple: need a USB mic for gaming? Go and get a Blue Yeti. As recently as five years ago, streaming, podcasting and crisp in-game comms was a relatively unexplored space. In 2024 the latest Yeti is still a strong option, but models like this Audio-Technica AT2040USB show just how much the market’s evolved.

In its build quality and recordings, this is a studio-quality mic that happens to have swapped out its XLR connection for a USB one that doesn’t require an intermediary audio interface between your mic and PC. That’s really the only distinction between the AT2040USB and a traditional studio mic - along with the relatively budget-friendly $149.99 / £129.99 pricing.

What makes this such an enticing option for anyone who streams, records podcasts, does voiceover work, or just wants to treat their friends’ ears in the Discord chat is that the sound quality’s right there out of the box. Its hypercardioid polar pattern means it’s laser-focused on the sound source right in front of it, and tunes out ambient noises like mechanical keyboard clicks or air conditioner hum. There’s a low pass filter control on the mic for an even sharper sound, and that makes it incredibly easy to set up and start recording. Just connect directly to your PC, point and shoot.

The bomb-proof build quality (note: the validity of this statement has not been tested literally) and sophisticated studio looks are a welcome bonus, too.

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB microphone on a mic stand in front of a monitor — (Image credit: Future/Phil Iwaniuk)

Audio-Technica AT2040USB: Price and availability

List price: $149.99 / £129.99 (approx. AU$255.50)
Cheaper than the Blue Yeti X and SteelSeries Alias
Great sound and build for the price

This isn’t the outright cheapest option out there. It’s possible to find a great USB mic for under $100 / £100 now, but we think the audio sparkle, ease of setup, and studio-grade build quality on offer in this AT2040USB more than justify what’s still an affordable price. It stacks up favorably against Blue’s flagship Yeti X, although it’s pricier than the base Yeti, and it’s also less than a SteelSeries Alias which also offers great out-of-the-box sound.

Audio-Technica AT2040USB: Specs

Audio-Technica AT2040USB: Design and features

Studio-like looks
Simple to use
Direct mic monitoring input

I'm seriously impressed by the construction quality of this capsule for the price - though not entirely surprised, given Audio-Technica’s decades of studio renown. Dynamic mics like this one are a bit less fragile than their condenser cousins, and can usually withstand a few more knocks. That’s why you generally see dynamic mics used for live vocals, for example. The inner workings of the AT2040USB are likely pretty robust, then, which is why it’s all the more impressive that they’re encased in such a sturdy metal case.

No stand or arm is supplied with this mic, so you will need to source either one separately. That’s also something to factor into the pricing since there are cheaper USB mic options out there with a similar feature set which do come with their own stand.

The overall look is refreshingly non-gamer-y, so if you’re looking for something you can sync up to your gaming setup’s RGB scheme you’ll need to look further afield. There is a ring light around a touch-to-mute button to indicate power and mute status, but that’s it. We’re a long way from SteelSeries Alias territory, with its on-capsule lighting displays. Personally I always prefer audio equipment to take its cues from the studio, rather than the world of games. It’s a classic look that ages well and conveys that this piece of kit is serious about its intended purpose.

In terms of on-mic controls, in addition to the USB-C connector, there are some additional features. Volume and monitoring volume scroll wheels sit beneath a low pass filter toggle switch, which is the smallest I’ve ever encountered. So much so that due to the fact it’s also placed in a recessed spot, I actually find it tricky to toggle at times.

Next to the USB-C connection, there’s a 3.5mm input jack for direct mic monitoring, a very handy feature, particularly for anyone with aspirations to use this mic in a musical home recording scenario.

The polar pattern and input type take a lot of the hard work out of the setup. Once the mic’s connected directly to your device, it’s simply a matter of cueing up your recording software of choice and arming a track, or telling Discord that this is your new audio input now. The audio quality’s already there, with essentially no need to bring plugins in.

Given that fact, there’s no supplied software from Audio-Technica for this mic, nor is any such bloatware required. Hooray.

Audio-Technica AT2040USB: Performance

Naturally blocks out unwanted noise
Rich, warm vocals
Harder to use as an instrument/dual vocal mic

Fundamentally, the sound quality here is one of the AT2040USB ’s most impressive assets. Every decision along its design journey has been made with vocals in mind specifically, from its dynamic capsule to the hypercardioid polar pattern and the tuning of the low cut. As such, you get creamy spoken vocals with plenty of detail that sound almost as if they’ve had some light EQ applied to them. It’s an absolute win for ease of use.

That does mean that this is a very specialist beast, though. While some USB mics offer a choice of polar patterns that might make dual vocal recordings possible (eg two of you recording a podcast together in the same room) and instrumental applications (against an amp speaker or as a room mic for drums or guitar), that’s a lot less possible here. Not a downside, but rather a concession to the AT2040USB being so brilliant at its intended purpose.

In practice, the hypercardioid polar pattern is tuned brilliantly for a home use setting, where passing traffic, keyboard noise and general ambiance from nearby electrical appliances can make recordings noisy and can impact the clarity of your team comms. I usually use a Bertom Denoiser plugin for my voiceover recordings, but before I robotically reached for it and dragged it onto my recorded track, I paused and wondered if there was any point with the AT2040USB ’s recordings.

I’ve got mixed feelings about the touch-to-mute button, though. On one hand, it avoids that ungainly ‘thunk’ sound you sometimes get from mechanical mute switches when you turn the signal on and off, but it’s a little bit fussy and if your fingers are clammy it’s not the most reliable way to mute in an instant.

That’s a tiny issue in what’s otherwise a glowingly positive experience. For podcasting, streaming, and Discord chat this is an absolutely fantastic option with little setup required and very few downsides.

Should you buy the Audio-Technica AT2040USB?

Buy it if...

You want a no-fuss USB setup for recording vocals
The hypercardioid polar pattern makes for fantastic vocal recording quality and minimal background noise.

You’re rough on your audio equipment
This is one tough mic capsule. The construction can withstand a fair few knocks and drops, so if you’re clumsy, the AT2040USB will survive some mishaps.

You already own a boom arm
There’s no stand or arm provided with this mic, so you’ll need to shell out on the additional hardware unless you feel like holding it the whole time.

Don't buy it if...

You want to record more than vocals
This mic’s paying attention to a narrow field directly in front of it - great for vocals, less so for instrument recordings.

You podcast with a group
To get clear, balanced audio from podcasting sessions with multiple speakers, you’d need a mic each.

USB input isn’t a big draw
Already own a fancy audio interface? Consider XLR mics that’ll make use of it.

Also consider

If the AT2040USB isn’t shouting out at you, consider these other USB mic options.

SteelSeries Alias

A little more inspired by the gaming world, featuring a striking aesthetic and similarly great out-of-the-box audio.

For more information read our full SteelSeries Alias review.

Rode X XCM50

Another mic that excels at background noise cancellation, and a strong option for those on a tighter budget.

For more information read out full Rode X XCM50 review.

How I tested the Audio-Technica AT2040USB

Several weeks of professional and personal use
Used to record voiceover, in Discord chat, and music projects
Somehow never dropped

In addition to the shameful number of hours I spend on Discord shouting at people to clear banana and that 'T' spawn needs a flash, I record voiceovers weekly for YouTube content. The AT2040USB took on both responsibilities for several weeks of testing and also went through its paces in music recording scenarios.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

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