Author - Jerry Paxton

Apple TV’s Upcoming Neuromancer Debuts Teaser and Premiere Date at SDCC

Today at Apple TV’s San Diego Comic-Con panel, Callum Turner made a surprise virtual appearance to unveil the first teaser for the highly anticipated new science fiction series, “Neuromancer,” based on the award-winning novel of the same name by William Gibson. The 10-episode series stars Turner, Briana Middleton, Mark Strong, Joseph Lee, Peter Sarsgaard and Clémence Poésy, and premieres globally on Friday, January 22, 2027 on Apple TV with two episodes, followed by one new episode weekly, every Friday through March 19, 2027.

“Neuromancer” follows a damaged, top-rung super-hacker named Case (Turner) who is thrust into a web of digital espionage and high stakes crime with his partner Molly (Middleton), a razor-girl assassin to pull a heist on a corporate dynasty with untold secrets. The ensemble cast also includes Max Irons, Dane DeHaan, Junia Rees, Jordan Kouamé, Emma Laird, Marc Menchaca, André De Shields and Isabella Pappas.

Produced by Paramount Television Studios and Anonymous Content, the series is created for television by Graham Roland and JD Dillard. Roland also serves as showrunner, and he and Dillard executive produce alongside David Levine, Garrett Kemble and Zack Hayden for Anonymous Content; Aubrey ‘Drake’ Graham, Adel ‘Future’ Nur and Jason Shrier for DreamCrew Entertainment; Jennifer Haley and William Gibson also executive produce. JD Dillard serves as director on the first three episodes.

The debut novel by William Gibson, “Neuromancer” has been praised as one of the first and most-respected works within the cyberpunk genre and has received numerous accolades, including the Nebula Award, the Philip K. Dick Award and the Hugo Award. The novel served as the first book in the “Sprawl” trilogy and was followed by “Count Zero” and “Mona Lisa Overdrive.”

Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have been honored with 850 wins and 3,800 award nominations, including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies The Studio and Ted Lasso; global cultural phenomenon Severance; Apple’s most-viewed drama, Pluribus; Academy Award Best Picture winner CODA; and Academy Award winner F1, the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.

HBO Max Brings LANTERNS And STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE at SDCC

HBO Max has officially kicked off its presence in San Diego with the debut of two experiential activations for LANTERNS and STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE. Taking over locations throughout the Gaslamp District, the activations invite fans to step directly into the worlds of the series through interactive moments and series-themed storytelling, journey-driven challenges, photo opportunities, exclusive merchandise and takeaways, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Beginning yesterday on Thursday, July 23 and running through Saturday, July 25, “Lanterns Training Headquarters” recruits attendees into the Green Lantern Corps for an interactive journey inspired by LANTERNS. Set within the world of Rushville, Nebraska, the experience challenges visitors to prove their fearlessness through hands-on training exercises, uncover mysteries tied to the upcoming series, and compete for the opportunity to earn a custom Lantern ring. The activation transformed participants into aspiring Lanterns, placing them at the center of a story-driven adventure pulled directly from the universe of the show. Earlier today, cast members Kyle Chandler, Aaron Pierre, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna Jagannathan, alongside creators and writers Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, stopped by to take on the challenge themselves and find out if they are worthy of wearing the ring.

Running through Sunday, July 26, “The Comic Center of Pasadena” brings STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE to life through a multiverse-spanning adventure that transports fans inside Stuart Bloom’s iconic comic book store. Visitors journey through a series of alternate realities, discover their hero archetypes, explore immersive environments inspired by the series, and receive personalized collectible keepsakes along the way. The experience also features exclusive merchandise and shareable photo moments designed to celebrate the upcoming comedy event series. On Thursday, creators Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, and Bill Prady, plus stars Kevin Sussman, Lauren Lapkus, John Ross Bowie, and Brian Posehn, stepped into the Stuart multiverse and experienced the adventure firsthand.

Beyond the activations, HBO Max also hosted must-see panels for both series. On Thursday, STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE treated attendees to an advance screening and conversation featuring creators Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, and Bill Prady alongside series stars. LANTERNS followed on Friday with a Hall H panel featuring cast and creative talent, an exclusive first look at the series, and never-before-seen footage.

HBO Max’s Comic-Con celebration continues tomorrow as co-creator and showrunner Ryan Condal will introduce a special advance screening of HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season 3, Episode 6, offering an exclusive early look at the next episode of the hit HBO Original series.

LANTERNS, from DC Studios and Warner Bros. Television, premieres August 16 on HBO and HBO Max.

Max Original Comedy Series STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE, from Warner Bros. Television, premiered July 23 on HBO and HBO Max with new episodes debuting weekly Thursday’s at 9:00 p.m. ET.

The first 5 episodes of Season 3 of HBO Original Series HOUSE OF THE DRAGON are now streaming on HBO and HBO Max with new episodes debuting weekly Sunday’s at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Path of Exile 1: Curse of the Allflame Out Now

Dive into the ocean depths in Path of Exile 1: Curse of the Allflame today. The new expansion introduces the formidable corsair captain Valerie and her cursed navigator Vesper in search of forgotten treasures hidden deep beneath the ocean floor. By assembling scattered Charts, boarding the legendary vessel The Sovereign, and descending in the Allflame-powered Bathysphere, players will explore dangerous Voyage expeditions where valuable relics, fearsome sea creatures and long-lost secrets await.

The expansion debuts the new Voyage league mechanic and Allflame Crafting system, welcomes the Mercenaries of Trarthus as a permanent core feature alongside the Scion’s new Luminary Ascendancy, and delivers sweeping improvements across character progression and the endgame. Players can experience redesigned socket and spellcasting systems, explore Atlas Anomalies inspired by iconic Path of Exile mechanics, and tackle extensive endgame overhauls to the Abyss and Legion.

Launching alongside the expansion are the new Plague and Remidus Supporter Packs, featuring a collection of exclusive cosmetic effects, armour sets, hideouts, pets and more, with all cosmetics fully compatible with Path of Exile 2: https://www.pathofexile.com/purchase

Celebrate the Launch with Twitch Drops

To celebrate the launch of Path of Exile: Curse of the Allflame, Grinding Gear Games is kicking off a week-long Twitch Drops campaign beginning at 1:00 PM PDT on July 24. Throughout launch week, players can earn exclusive in-game cosmetics simply by watching their favourite Path of Exile creators on Twitch, including the Nautical Explorer Back Attachment and the Allflame Crafting Bench.

Watch the full showcase here:

  • Earn the Nautical Explorer Back Attachment
    • Players who accumulate 3 hours of watch time on any Twitch channel streaming in the Path of Exile 1 category during the first week of launch will automatically receive the Nautical Explorer Back Attachment.
  • Support a Streamer
    • Players can also unlock the exclusive Allflame Crafting Bench by supporting the Path of Exile streaming community. Between 1:00 PM PDT on July 24 and 4:59 AM PDT on August 1, purchase or gift two Twitch subscriptions of any tier to channels streaming in the Path of Exile 1 category to claim the hideout decoration.

Both rewards are purely cosmetic and do not affect character power or progression.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Brings an Epic New Season 3 Teaser Trailer

Today, in San Diego Comic-Con’s iconic Hall H, over 6,500 fans were transported back to Middle-earth as Prime Video showcased the highly anticipated third season of the epic fantasy series, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay were joined by several of the show’s cast for a fun and insightful conversation moderated by High King Gil-galad himself, series star Benjamin Walker. The panel not only debuted a thrilling new teaser trailer, but revealed some exciting highlights from the new season, and a few surprises as well!

Cast members Cynthia Addai-RobinsonOwain ArthurIsmael Cruz Cordova, Charlie VickersDaniel Weyman, and Season Three newcomer Jamie Campbell Bower, all participated in the panel, which was jam-packed with exclusive news and riveting visual elements, including:

  • A brand-new teaser trailer unveiled the darker tone and some epic moments from Season Three, as Sauron’s quest to forge the One Ring is fully underway, and his goal to control all of Middle-earth threatens every one of its realms, causing new, and sometimes uneasy alliances to be formed to try and stop him.
  • There were several exciting Season Three character reveals for previously announced actors throughout the panel.  They join two other characters that were revealed earlier this week – Jamie Campbell Bower (Stranger Things) as Galadriel’s long-lost husband, “Celeborn,” and Zubin Varla (Andor) who plays “Khamûl the Easterling,” of Rhûn.  The new reveals during the panel were:
    • Eddie Marsan (Happy-Go-Lucky) portraying King Durin IV’s older brother, “Thrain”
    • Andrew Richardson (Guys & Dolls) playing Elendil’s younger son and Isildur’s brother, “Anarion”
    • Adam Young (Don’t Breathe 2) as “Marnûkh,” a mysterious Orc who may not be what he seems
  • The Balrog Speaks!  And it’s Simon Pegg!  A special in-room only featurette titled “Bringing Season Three’s Creatures to Life” showed highlights of several creatures that will be seen this season, including Fell-beasts, the war elephants known as Mûmakil, Orcs, and the return of the fiery Balrog, who for the first time ever will speak – and that voice is revealed to be none other than acclaimed actor Simon Pegg (The Cornetto TrilogyMission ImpossibleStar Trek)!
  • In addition, The Rings of Power’s Hall H panel was interrupted midway by a surprise appearance of four menacing Nazgnagôl in full armor, who were awaiting Sauron’s command. Introduced this season, these entities are ring-servants of Sauron and are the earlier Second Age incarnation of the Nazgûl, also known as Ringwraiths, of the Third Age.

The first four episodes of Season Three of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will premiere on November 11, 2026.  Episodes 305 & 306 will be available to stream on November 18th, and the final two episodes of the season will be released on November 25th.

In Season Three, Middle-earth is at war. Five years have passed since the fall of Eregion. Sauron’s armies have marched across the whole of the world, conquering all in their path. Only a few isolated pockets stand between the Dark Lord and total victory – Khazad-dûm, where the Dwarves are now sealed deep within their mountain halls, and the elven realms of Lindon and Rivendell, which are protected by their Three Rings. But deep in the land of Mordor, in his newly completed tower of Barad-dûr, the Dark Lord toils day and night, obsessed with harnessing a power that will bring the last of his enemies to their knees: One Ring to rule them all... Now, all the free peoples of Middle-earth – Dwarves, Elves, Men, and Wizards alike – must find a way to come together, in a race against time to prevent Sauron from achieving his goal of utter domination of all life…

The third season of The Rings of Power is produced by showrunners and executive producers J.D. Payne & Patrick McKay. They are joined by executive producers Lindsey Weber, Justin Doble, Kate Hazell, and executive producer-director Charlotte Brändström. Matthew Penry-Davey is producer and Ally O’Leary, Tim Keene, and Andrew Lee are co-producers.

The Rings of Power brings to screens for the very first time the heroic legends of the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth’s history. This epic drama is set thousands of years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings books, and will take viewers back to an era in which great powers were forged, kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, hope hung by the finest of threads, and the greatest villain that ever flowed from Tolkien’s pen threatened to cover all the world in darkness. The series follows an ensemble cast of characters, both familiar and new, as they confront the long-feared re-emergence of evil to Middle-earth. From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains to the majestic forests of the elf capital of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the farthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is one of the highest performing and most-viewed titles ever on Prime Video, with a broad, highly engaged, global fan base. Critics have praised the series for its epic scope and production values, and Seasons One and Two are Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Through their respective 91 day post premiere launch windows and ranked by viewers, Season One remains the biggest TV series premiere in the history of Prime Video, and Season Two is among the Top 5 most watched returning seasons ever. Season Two debuted as the #1 Original Series on Nielsen’s Streaming Top 10 Chart and remained in the top 4 throughout its entire run. The globally successful and award-winning series, which has attracted over 185 million viewers worldwide, also continues to be one of Amazon’s strongest drivers for new Prime membership sign-ups.

All sixteen episodes of the first two seasons are available to stream exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories in multiple languages.

Warhammer Blood Bowl Is Coming This Fall

Slitherine Next event delivered exciting news for fans of the world’s most brutal fantasy football league. Warhammer Blood Bowl, the fully updated video game based on the legendary Warhammer tabletop board game, is coming to PC, Xbox, and PlayStation next fall.

Orcs, Elves, Dwarfs, Skaven, Chaos, and the other iconic teams will once again clash on the pitch, delivering bone-crunching tackles, spectacular touchdowns, and the unpredictable mayhem that has made Blood Bowl one of the most beloved tabletop games of all time.

Built upon the solid foundations of Blood Bowl 3, Warhammer Blood Bowl refines, improves, and expands every aspect of the experience. Veteran developer Cyanide, the long-standing studio behind the franchise, has been working tirelessly to deliver the most authentic and faithful digital adaptation ever created, capturing everything fans love about the tabletop game while making it more accessible, smoother, and more enjoyable than ever before.

The game will also adopt the latest official tabletop ruleset, updated through September 2025 (also known as Third Season Edition), ensuring the most up-to-date Blood Bowl experience available.

The roster is expanding as well. Fan-favorite teams, including the long-awaited Bretonnians and Khemri Tomb Kings, will finally join the action alongside the existing factions, giving coaches even more ways to dominate the pitch.

“At Slitherine, we’re strategy gamers first and foremost, and Blood Bowl has always been one of our favorite tabletop games,” said Marco Alessandro Minoli, Director of Publishing at Slitherine. “We’re incredibly proud to welcome this iconic franchise into our portfolio and to be working alongside the talented team at Cyanide. Our goal with Warhammer Blood Bowl is simple: we want this to become the definitive Blood Bowl videogame—not just at launch, but for years to come. Our vision is to support and expand it over time, turning it into a living, constantly evolving experience, just as we’ve successfully done with other Warhammer titles such as Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector and Warhammer 40,000: Gladius.”

Current Blood Bowl 3 players have even more reasons to celebrate. Everyone who owns Blood Bowl 3 on PC and consoles will receive Warhammer Blood Bowl as a free upgrade, keeping all previously purchased teams and cosmetics.

And the wait won’t be long to get your hands on the game. A playable demo will arrive at the end of the summer for PC, giving players their first opportunity to experience the new gameplay improvements and the highly requested Rumble Mode—a fast-paced, dynamic 7-player format designed for quicker, action-packed matches without sacrificing the tactical depth that defines Blood Bowl.

Whether you’re a veteran coach or stepping onto the pitch for the first time, one thing is certain: the greatest fantasy football spectacle is ready to kick off once again.

Sharpen your spikes. Polish your armor. The crowd is roaring.

NASCAR 26 Launches September 18

iRacing Studios and NASCAR® are excited to announce that NASCAR 26, the next entry in their racing video game franchise, is launching September 18* on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. Check out today’s developer diary for a look under the hood at this year’s title, which introduces a host of improvements, including a new dynamic track feature that changes how your car handles over the course of a race weekend, cross-platform multiplayer, burnouts, new tracks, and much more.

NASCAR 26 looks to build on the success of NASCAR 25, the first standalone NASCAR console title produced by iRacing, which launched on PC and consoles last fall. This year’s game, which features NASCAR star Kyle Larson as its cover driver, once again includes all four premier NASCAR series – the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series – with real drivers from each series, along with a groundbreaking new dynamic track feature that evolves over the course of every race weekend. Players will also find an improved Career Mode, online cross-platform multiplayer, and a host of other new features and enhancements including burnouts, an improved driving model, and more features to be announced via the gameplay trailer next week.

Two editions of NASCAR 26 will be available this September, with a Standard Edition and Gold Edition coming to all platforms. More information about pricing, pre-orders, and Gold Edition content (which includes 3 days of early access starting September 15) will be released alongside the first gameplay trailer on July 29!

NASCAR 26 launches on September 18 on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. For more information, visit https://nascar26.com, and follow along on Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram.

*Gold Edition owners will receive 3 days early access starting September 15.

Liquidation Announces August 4 Early Access Release

Lead four unique factions into a brutal fantasy/sci-fi war when tactical RTS Liquidation launches in Early Access on Steam this August.

Publisher MicroProse and developer Divio are pleased to announce that Liquidation will launch in Steam Early Access on August 4.

The release date has been revealed alongside a brand-new announcement teaser, offering a fresh glimpse at the war-torn world of Veá and the factions preparing to battle for its future.

Set in a shattered world where fantasy and science fiction collide, Liquidation is a tactical real-time strategy game centered on the struggle for Quenrium, a mysterious substance capable of sustaining life on a dying planet.

Designed around meaningful tactical decisions rather than overwhelming army sizes, Liquidation emphasizes battlefield positioning, unit synergy, commander abilities, and smart army composition. Players can lead the fanatical Twilight Crusade, the resourceful Scourge Alliance, or the infernal Legion, with each faction offering its own identity, units, and strategic approach.

Launching in Early Access marks the beginning of Liquidation’s journey with the community. Player feedback will help shape the game’s continued development as new content, improvements, and features are introduced throughout Early Access.

Turtle Beach Reveals New VelocityOne Flightstick II Peripherals

Leading gaming accessories maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: TBCH), today revealed the all-new VelocityOne™ Flightstick II, VelocityOne Dual Throttle, VelocityOne H.O.T.A.S. for XBOX and PC, and VelocityOne Universal Sim Mount. Individually, the Flightstick II and Dual Throttle represent among the most advanced flight sim peripherals on the market today. Together, as the VelocityOne H.O.T.A.S. flight simulation system, they set a new standard for sim enthusiasts striving for richer realism and precision control across all of today’s flight simulators.

The all-new VelocityOne Flightstick II features an ambidextrous design with next-gen 16-bit Hall-effect sensors for ultra-precise stick control, a real-time Flight Management display, and 38 programmable functions that meaningfully increase confidence during landings or dogfights no matter the conditions. The VelocityOne Dual Throttle delivers ultra-smooth, accurate control through dual levers with 10-bit resolution, 7-axes control in twin-engine or single-engine modes. Together they become the formidable VelocityOne H.O.T.A.S. system, built for any flight sim fan looking to go deeper — whether flying through clouds or to distant exoplanets.

“When we launched the VelocityOne family, our goal was to deliver greater realism, immersion, and enjoyment for sim fans,” said Cris Keirn, CEO, Turtle Beach. “The evolution of the VelocityOne Flightstick II and VelocityOne Dual Throttle builds on that vision with major advancements in performance, precision, and accessibility, giving more players the high-fidelity control today’s sim experiences demand.”

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightstick II, has two models, one built for XBOX and Windows PC and one just for Windows PC. Both feature 16-bit Hall-effect sensors with over 65,000 input counts per axis that deliver smooth, precise control. With 38 programmable inputs, an integrated control dial, and versatile analog stick controls, essential commands are always within reach. The ambidextrous design with adjustable spring response ensures lasting comfort. A full-color display provides real-time feedback and quick adjustments, while customizable RGB lighting enhances your setup. It starts on pre-order today at www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers globally at an MSRP of $149.99/€139.99/£129.99 and launches Sep 21, 2026.

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Dual Throttle works alongside any Flightstick on Windows PC, or connects directly to the VelocityOne Flightstick II on XBOX. It offers precision and immersive control through 10-bit Hall-effect sensors that deliver smooth, accurate input with over 1,000 input counts per axis. Dual levers with a lock support both twin- and single-engine aircraft, while swappable detents and adjustable tension customize the feel. Multiple analog controls provide flexibility across sims. The 35 programmable inputs, LED indicators, and RGB lighting, keeps sim fans focused and immersed. As an ideal part of a complete flight setup, the VelocityOne Dual Throttle is on pre-order now at www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers globally at an MSRP of $149.99/€139.99/£129.99 and launches Sep 21, 2026.

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne H.O.T.A.S. flight simulation system combines the two new controllers into one package, delivering an affordable precision-engineered flight experience for both aspiring and seasoned XBOX and PC sim pilots. Combining Flightstick II with the Dual Throttle, this system is built to replicate authentic cockpit control across combat, commercial, and space flight simulations. High-resolution Hall-effect sensors provide smooth, accurate input, while extensive 73 programmable inputs keep essential functions within reach. Adjustable spring response, ambidextrous ergonomics, tactile throttle detents, real-time display, and customizable RGB lighting allow full personalization. Expandability with the VelocityOne Rudder Pedals and Universal Sim Mount makes this a scalable, professional-grade simulation solution. As an ideal foundation for a complete flight setup, the VelocityOne H.O.T.A.S. system is available for pre-order now at www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers globally at an MSRP of $279.99/€249.99/£229.99 and launches Sep 21, 2026.

Also available to pre-order today is the VelocityOne Universal Sim Mount. This versatile clamp mount allows flight and racing peripherals, in the VelocityOne range and broad cross-brand compatibility, to be securely integrated into a sim setup, helping bring even more realistic simulation experiences to life. With 240mm of vertical adjustment, and broad compatibility it offers flexibility to fine-tune positioning for any setup. Whether it’s positioning the Dual Throttle or Flightstick II lower for a more authentic cockpit feel, placing the Multi-Shift within easy reach for fast gear changes, or mounting the KD3 in an elevated trucking-style position, the VelocityOne Universal Sim Mount makes it easy. It’s designed to adapt your setup for a more immersive simulation experience across flight, racing, farming, and trucking sims. Starting on pre-order today at www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers globally at an MSRP of $59.99/€49.99/£39.99, it launches on September 21, 2026.

Below is the full list of VelocityOne Flightstick II features designed to deliver exceptional flight sim experiences:

High-Precision Hall-Effect Axes

16-bit Hall-effect sensors deliver over 65,000 input counts per axis for smooth, accurate control and precise movement in any simulation.

38 Programmable Inputs

38 mappable inputs, including 11 new inputs compared to VelocityOne Flightstick 1, provide quick access to essential commands without breaking immersion.

Integrated Cockpit Control Dial

Dual encoder dial with tri-position switch unlocks up to nine inputs for efficient control of navigation and onboard systems.

Expanded Analog Controls

Dual levers, precision thumbstick, and a multi-function wheel offer versatile input for throttle, camera, and system control.

Ambidextrous Ergonomic Design

Adjustable wrist and thumb rests with swappable inserts support left- and right-handed comfort during long sessions.

Rudder Twist with Lock Option

Integrated twist rudder control with lock option lets you switch easily between stick control and dedicated pedals (sold separately).

Adjustable Stick Tension

Three tension settings let you tailor resistance for realism, speed, or balanced control.

Flight Management Display

Flight Management Display provides real-time flight telemetry and seamless access to onboard systems, letting you monitor instruments, manage configurations, and make in-flight adjustments.

RGB Lighting

Customizable RGB lighting lets you match your setup to your cockpit or favorite sim. Adjust colors and effects directly on the display, or unlock deeper customization with the VelocityOne Flight Hangar app.

XBOX and PC Compatibility

Officially licensed for XBOX Series X|S and Windows 10/11 PCs with seamless plug-and-play performance.

Expandable Simulation Ecosystem

Compatible with throttle modules, rudder pedals, a second stick, and mounts to build a complete HOTAS or HOSAS setup.

VelocityOne Flight Hangar app

Adjust product performance such as dead zone adjustment, stick response, lighting adjustment, and aircraft-specific profiles using the VelocityOne Flight Hangar app available for XBOX and PC.

Precision Hall-Effect Throttle Axes

10-bit Hall-effect sensors deliver over 1,000 input counts per axis for smooth, accurate control. Fine inputs translate directly in-game for precise landings, combat, and throttle control.

Below is the full list of VelocityOne Dual Throttle features engineered for boosted flight sim experiences:

Lockable Dual Throttle Control

Dual levers simulate twin-engine control, with a lock for single-engine use. Switch easily between aircraft types without changing your setup.

35 Programmable Inputs + 7 Axes

7 axes and 35 mappable inputs and switches keep essential commands within reach, reducing the need to navigate menus mid-flight.

Interchangeable Throttle Detents

Swappable throttle detents provide tactile reference points for fighters, airliners, or space sims, including afterburner, idle, and reverse thrust.

Adjustable Throttle Tension

Fine-tune throttle resistance from light and responsive to firm and realistic for smooth, controlled flight.

LED Throttle Bar Indicators

For select flight simulation titles, LED throttle bar indicators display real-time thrust or sim-assigned data without breaking immersion (on PC only).

RGB Lighting

Customizable RGB lighting lets you match your setup to your cockpit or favorite sim. Unlock deeper customization with the VelocityOne Flight Hangar app.

Multiplatform Compatibility

Compatible with Windows PC via independent USB connection or XBOX when connected to the VelocityOne Flightstick II designed for XBOX.

Mounting Options

High-grip rubber feet keep the throttle stable during desktop use, while pre-drilled mounting holes and included screws enable hard-mount installation in your own cockpit or seamless integration with the VelocityOne Universal Sim Mount.

Expandable Hardware

Build a complete H.O.T.A.S. simulation ecosystem by pairing with VelocityOne Flightstick II and Rudder Pedals.

VelocityOne Flight Hangar App

Adjust product performance such as dead zone settings, lighting customization, and aircraft-specific profiles using the VelocityOne Flight Hangar app available for XBOX and PC.

Below is the full list of VelocityOne Universal Sim Mount features for an enhanced simulation experience:

Ultimate Mounting Versatility

Configure your setup your way. Position a center-stick or side-stick layout, place a throttle or racing shifter within easy reach, and keep your mouse off a cluttered desk with the integrated mousepad.

Hassle-Free Setup

Get set up in minutes with a streamlined design built around just three steel plate components. Use the included hardware to create your preferred mounting position, then simply clamp, adjust, and go.

Broad Peripheral Compatibility

Designed for VelocityOne simulation products and compatible with a wide range of third-party peripherals, the VelocityOne™ Universal Sim Mount supports flight sticks, throttles, racing shifters, handbrakes, and other simulation accessories.

High-Strength Steel Construction

Built from rugged 3/16-inch thick steel, the VelocityOne™ Universal Sim Mount delivers exceptional strength and stability. Designed to resist flex under load, it provides rock-solid stability for precise control.

Integrated Mousepad Convenience

An integrated mousepad attaches directly to the VelocityOne™ Universal Sim Mount, keeping your mouse within easy reach while freeing up valuable desk space.

Extrusion Rig Compatible

Designed to integrate seamlessly with aluminum extrusion sim rigs, providing a secure and stable mounting solution for advanced setups.

Multi-Sim Ready Design

From flight and racing to trucking and farming, the VelocityOne™ Universal Sim Mount adapts to a wide range of simulation genres and control configurations.

For more information on the latest Turtle Beach peripherals and accessories, visit www.turtlebeach.com and be sure to follow Turtle Beach on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

The Elgato Key Light Air MK.2 Has Arrived

Elgato, a CORSAIR® brand, today announced Key Light Air MK.2, successor to one of the most popular creator lights. With a 15-inch LED panel, the all-new Air delivers up to 2100 lumens of soft illumination that looks professional on camera without overpowering a desk. Touch controls let creators make adjustments right on the light, and it works with phones, computers, and Stream Deck. It runs entirely on USB-C, plugged into a computer for everyday use, or a power adapter or battery bank for additional brightness. The included stand clamps right to a desk, and the light detaches for use with an existing rig or MagSafe-compatible mount.

“We knew what the original got right, and where we could push further,” said Jörg Gohlke, Senior Manager of Engineering at Elgato. “MK.2 is the result. A brighter, more capable light with touch controls, USB-C power, and a design that fits more setups than ever before. It’s the version we always wanted to build.”

The Light

Key Light Air delivers up to 2100 lumens from trusted OSRAM LEDs, dimmable from a subtle glow to full brightness. Edge-lit technology spreads light evenly across the panel for a soft, natural look that’s easier on the eyes. Color temperature adjusts from warm to cool to match any environment, and flicker-free performance keeps video looking smooth.

At 15 inches, Key Light Air is large enough to deliver pro results but compact enough to share a desk without dominating it. Its slim profile and clean design blend into a setup rather than standing out, sitting comfortably alongside monitors, microphones, and cameras. It fills a space most creator lights miss — more capable than a small panel built for video calls, more practical than a studio rig built for bigger rooms.

Whether it’s a livestream, a YouTube shoot, or a work meeting, Key Light Air delivers the right light without getting in the way.

Control

Touch controls put brightness, color temperature, and two customizable presets right on the light itself. They’re positioned front and center for easy access.

For control at a distance, the Elgato Control Center app connects over USB or Wi-Fi. It’s available free on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. Stream Deck takes it further, letting creators adjust lighting without breaking focus. Any model works, though Stream Deck + stands out with dials for fine-tuning. And for multi-light setups, everything can be managed from one place.

Together, they offer the freedom to control Key Light Air however the moment calls for it.

Power

A single USB-C cable from a computer delivers up to 400 lumens, more than enough light for most desk setups. Just plug in and go.

For more brightness or freedom in placement, creators have options. A USB-C PD power adapter at 30W or above unlocks the full 2100 lumens, when the shot demands more. A battery bank does the same, attached to the back via MagSafe with a USB-C cable for power — no computer or outlet needed.

From creating at a desk to recording on the go, Key Light Air has power for every situation.

Mounting

The included stand clamps onto the edge of a desk to save space, curving up over monitors. It’s height-adjustable, with a ball head for dialing in the perfect angle. Plus built-in cable management to keep the look clean.

Key Light Air also detaches from its stand for use beyond the desk. Three 1/4-inch threads let it mount to an existing rig in virtually any orientation. A built-in MagSafe ring goes even further, letting creators snap between setups using a compatible holder.

Availability

Key Light Air is available starting today at elgato.com in over 40 countries and regions. Authorized retailers in CORSAIR’s global network will follow shortly. MSRP is $139.99 USD. A light-only version is also available at $119.99 USD.

Two webstore-exclusive accessories are also available, with special launch offers when purchased alongside Key Light Air. P30 Power Supply is a 30W USB-C PD adapter that unlocks full brightness, free to add at checkout. Focus Grid attaches magnetically for less spill and more control over where the light falls, available at half price.

HyperX QuadCast 2 S Microphone Review: Beautiful Glow, Buggy Software

If you spend any time on Twitch, YouTube, or even just hopping into Discord calls, you know the exact visual: a glowing, honeycomb-patterned cylinder suspended in an elastic shock mount, casting a bright red aura across a creator’s face. That is the HyperX QuadCast. Since its debut back in 2019, it has basically been the undisputed aesthetic king of desktop gaming mics. It was simple, it looked cool, and it saved thousands of us from the terrible, compressed audio of built-in headset microphones.

But gaming setups have evolved. Streamers want cleaner desk setups, better controls, and higher audio fidelity. Rather than letting competitors eat their lunch, HyperX dropped the QuadCast 2 S, retailing at a premium $199.99. It features over a hundred addressable, customizable aRGB LEDs, a massive technical jump to 32-bit / 192 kHz recording resolution, and a completely reworked physical design.

But let’s be real for a second. Two hundred dollars is a serious investment for a USB peripheral. It pushes this mic out of the casual budget category and forces it to go toe-to-toe with dedicated audio giants like Shure and Rode. So, does the QuadCast 2 S actually justify its hefty price tag, or are you just paying a premium for a very fancy desk disco ball? Let’s check it out.

The 32-Bit Gimmick

Let me explain the big technical selling point of this mic first. HyperX is proudly boasting that the QuadCast 2 S is a “future-ready” device capable of recording audio at an incredible 32-bit depth and a 192 kHz sample rate. In theory, this is a massive technological upgrade from the original model’s 16-bit / 48 kHz capture. It means the mic is grabbing a massive, incredibly detailed slice of raw audio data every single second.

But honestly? For almost everyone reading this review, those specs are complete overkill.

Here is the thing: if your daily routine involves screaming at your friends in Discord, streaming on Twitch, or taking Zoom meetings for work, those high-end numbers will not make a shred of difference. Discord compresses your audio to save bandwidth. Twitch compressed audio does the same. By the time your voice reaches your viewers, the difference between 24-bit and 32-bit is completely imperceptible to the human ear.

However, if you are planning to record professional voiceovers, edit high-end YouTube videos, or capture local acoustic tracks, that extra digital headroom is actually a massive safety net. The raw sound quality of the electret condenser capsules is beautifully crisp, bright, and carries a very pleasant touch of mid-range warmth. It does not sound harsh or clinical, making you sound friendly and natural.

But there is a major catch to this extreme sensitivity. Because it is a condenser mic, it picks up everything in its immediate vicinity. If you have a clicky mechanical keyboard, a squeaky desk chair, or an air conditioner humming in the background, this mic will capture it all. If your room is completely untreated with bare walls and hardwood floors, your voice is going to sound a bit echoey and distant as the sound bounces off the hard surfaces. If you do not have a quiet, carpeted, or sound-treated space, a dynamic mic like the Shure MV6 will do a much better job of rejecting that unwanted background noise.

 

Boom Arms and Desk Real Estate

Let’s talk about physical presence, because the QuadCast 2 S is not a tiny microphone. Standing just under 11 inches tall when mounted on its heavy metal desktop stand, it is a beefy matte-black cylinder that will absolutely make itself known on your camera feed.

If you are planning to keep it on your desk, the base is sturdy and has a good grip. But honestly, keeping a highly sensitive condenser mic on your desk right next to your keyboard is a recipe for terrible sound. Every single keyboard tap, mouse swipe, and desk bump will send massive low-frequency vibrations straight up the stand and into your audio.

To fix this, you really need a suspension boom arm. Thankfully, HyperX made some brilliant design updates to the physical housing. The pre-attached elastic shock mount has been redesigned with a quick-release system. Instead of having to unscrew a tight plastic collar, you just pull two spring-loaded pins and the microphone slides right out of the shock mount in seconds.

But you have to be careful with your choice of boom arm. The QuadCast 2 S is heavier than its predecessor, weighing a solid 345 grams for the microphone unit alone, and a hefty 488 grams once you add the shock mount. Budget scissor arms like the Thronmax Flex S5 are great for light gear, but they might struggle, slip, or sag under the weight of this mic. You are much better off pairing it with a heavy-duty arm like the Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP or the RØDE PSA1+ to keep it locked in position right in front of your mouth. HyperX also thoughtfully offset the rear ports slightly, meaning your USB-C and headphone cables will not run into the metal frame when you tilt the mic on its stand.

The Tap of Silence

In terms of actual everyday usability, the physical controls on this microphone are fantastic. My biggest pet peeve with the older QuadCast S was having the gain knob hidden away on the bottom where you could easily bump it by accident. HyperX fixed this by throwing a gorgeous, multi-function rotary control knob right on the front of the body.

This single dial controls everything. By default, turning the knob adjusts your microphone’s gain. If you plug monitoring headphones into the zero-latency 3.5mm jack on the back, you can press the dial to switch between adjusting headphone volume and your monitor-to-playback mix. Holding the dial down for a few seconds allows you to cycle through the four polar patterns. The active pattern is displayed visually on a ring of colored indicator lights around the top sensor, which is a brilliant touch of design. When you are not actively adjusting settings, the LED ring around the dial acts as a real-time VU meter, bouncing up and down to show you exactly how loud you are.

And then we have the capacitive tap-to-mute button on top. Honestly, this is still the gold standard of mute switches on any microphone. You do not have to press a physical button that makes a loud, annoying “click” on your recording. You just tap the top of the mic with a fingertip. The over 100 addressable RGB LEDs immediately go dark, giving you and your stream audience a bulletproof visual cue that you are off the air.

But there is a small contradiction in the hardware design. While the mic is great at handling loud volumes without digital distortion, the internal pop filter is quite weak. If you speak within twelve inches of the grille, overzealous plosive sounds—like hard “P”, “T”, or “B” sounds—will easily blow past the thin internal foam and clip your recording. To get clean audio, you will need to add a cheap external pop filter, which ruins the sleek aesthetic of the RGB grille. Also, adjusting that beautiful multi-function dial during a live recording produces distinct physical clicking sounds that the sensitive condenser capsules will register clearly in your audio.

The Console Issue

Here is the thing: if you are a console gamer who splits your time between streaming on PC and playing on a PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch, you need to read this next part very carefully.

The QuadCast 2 S completely drops support for gaming consoles.

It is a massive, frustrating downgrade from the original model and a classic example of high-end technical specs causing serious compatibility issues.

Let me explain why this happens. To handle the high-resolution, uncompressed bandwidth required for its 32-bit / 192 kHz audio path, the QuadCast 2 S relies on the USB Audio Class 2 (UAC-2) standard. But console operating systems, including the PS5 and Nintendo Switch, do not support UAC-2; they are strictly limited to the older UAC-1 protocol.

Because the console’s operating system cannot negotiate the UAC-2 handshake, plugging the QuadCast 2 S into a PS5 results in absolutely nothing happening—the console will not even detect that a microphone is connected.

Here is the ultimate irony: the cheaper, standard QuadCast 2 (which retails for $150 and records at 24-bit / 96 kHz) uses the older UAC-1 protocol. That means the standard model works natively and flawlessly on PS5, Switch, and Steam Deck, while this “premium” $200 version is strictly locked to PC and Mac. If you play on consoles, buying the S is not the right move.

Software Gremlins

If you are on Windows, the NGENUITY software is required to customize the dazzling aRGB lighting. You can program gorgeous, custom color gradients, sync the colors to other HyperX gear, or set the LEDs to react dynamically to your voice. When it works, it looks spectacular.

But honestly, the software side of things is a massive headache.

First of all, NGENUITY is Windows-only. If you use macOS, there is no official app for you. Normally, you could plug the mic into a friend’s Windows PC, save your custom colors to the onboard memory, and bring it back to your Mac. But the QuadCast 2 S uses a live-driven LED controller. The microphone does not have onboard EEPROM storage to keep color profiles in its firmware. The moment you unplug it from Windows and connect it to a Mac, it immediately forgets your custom colors and reverts to its default, pulsing frosty blue pattern.

Even worse are the serious firmware update bugs. Many users on Reddit have reported that when they attempted to update the microphone’s firmware (specifically to version 6.1.1.3) through NGENUITY, the USB connection crashed midway. This interrupted write cycle completely corrupts the boot sector, bricking the microphone instantly. In other cases, when NGENUITY is running in the background, a software conflict can arise that disables the physical tap-to-mute button on top of the mic. Many creators have had to uninstall the software entirely just to get their microphone to function reliably, which completely defeats the purpose of paying an extra $50 for addressable RGB.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, the HyperX QuadCast 2 S is an incredibly beautiful, highly capable USB condenser microphone that delivers stellar, broadcast-ready audio with zero effort. The raw sound quality is gorgeous, the physical mute button is unmatched, and the customizable addressable RGB looks spectacular on camera.

But for the vast majority of streamers and creators, the standard $150 QuadCast 2 is the much smarter buy. It sounds just as good in real-world streaming environments, it retains the key physical upgrades like the multi-function dial, and it works natively on consoles like the PS5 without the UAC-2 lockout.

If you are a PC-only creator who wants a dazzling showpiece for your setup and you do not mind fighting with a bit of unpolished software, the QuadCast 2 S is a beautiful, highly capable mic. Just be very careful when NGENUITY prompts you to update that firmware.

Overall Rating 3 out of 5

Pros

  • Crisp 32-bit audio
  • Responsive tap-to-mute
  • Spectacular addressable RGB
  • Easy-release shock mount

Cons

  • No console compatibility
  • Weak internal pop filter
  • Glitchy companion software