Author - Jerry Paxton

Snakebyte Unveils Honeycomb Aeronautical Line of Flight Sim Peripherals

San Diego, CA – January 5, 2017 snakebyte® group, leading innovators of consumer electronics hardware, announced today Honeycomb Aeronautical, a new brand of flight simulation hardware. With the first products expected to ship Summer 2017, the range Is designed to offer the most authentic, premium flight products available, suitable not only for enthusiasts but also for flight students training for a pilot license.

Designed and developed by pilots and flight engineers in California, USA, Honeycomb Aeronautical has engineered the range using genuine aerospace components and the same internal mechanics used in premium certified simulators approved by the FAA for flight training use.

Each product in the range is designed to function alone or can be combined with other products in the Honeycomb range to function as a full cockpit simulation. In addition, Honeycomb have designed their range to work alongside components from other flight simulation manufacturers, negating the need to begin building their cockpit anew.

The first product in the Honeycomb Aeronautical range is:

  • Alpha Flight Control – Yoke & Switch Panel – SRP: $169.99

Manufactured from aerospace grade components, the Yoke & Switch Panel is a multi-purpose Yoke & Switch Panel, compatible with all major flight simulation software. All steel shaft with metal mechanical movement provides a professional feel and exceptional strength, and the full 180° yoke movement is ideal for flight of any craft. The Yoke & Switch Panel features four buttons, four two-way switches & one, eight-way hat switch, offering an avionics switch panel with master, alternator, avionics and light switches. Compatible with PC and Mac, the Yoke & Switch Panel includes a mounting bracket compatible with Honeycomb panels as well as products from other flight simulation manufacturers.

“Simulation in an area of keen interest for us at snakebyte. We believe there is huge potential for further innovation in the field and we’re excited to introduce a new brand to enthusiasts and aspiring pilots which we believe will stand for unparalleled quality and innovation,” said Nicki Repenning, CEO of snakebyte USA. “Today’s announcement is further evidence of our commitment to grow our hardware offering with a portfolio of brands and products which will allow our company to gain market share and expand our engineering expertise into excitement new categories.”

The new range of Honeycomb Aeronautical products will be demonstrated at the Pepcom® Digital Experience, taking place Jan 4, 2017 at The Mirage Hotel, CES, Las Vegas. The range will also be available to view via appointment only at the snakebyte booth, South Hall 1, 21666.

First Contact and VRsenal Showcase VR-15 and Haptic Vest for ROM: Extraction

SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Jan. 4, 2017 – New virtual reality studio First Contact Entertainment will be at CES showing fresh functionality for its ever-expanding pick-up-and-play shooter, ROM: Extraction, out now for the HTC VIVE VR headset and Oculus Rift (via both Steam and the Oculus Store). Located within HTC’s booth at the Alsace Ballroom at The Wynn, attendees will be able to play the acclaimed VR game using the VRsenal VR-15 rifle peripheral and haptic vest for the first time and check out other unannounced goodies, as well. This collaboration between First Contact, VRsenal, and HTC Vive is tailored to meet the growing demand for location-based, arcade VR experiences.

“The core of ROM: Extraction is all about instant action. We want immediate heart palpitations,” said Hess Barber, co-founder and president of First Contact Entertainment. “Picking up the VR-15 rifle in the real world and seeing it move inside the game elevates that intensity and immersion to unprecedented levels. And it’s an immensely satisfying way to annihilate hostile alien robots. This is VR gaming in 2017 as it’s meant to be.”

“New VR peripherals are a critical component to delivering an immersive VR experience and building out the ever-growing Vive ecosystem,” said Dan O’Brien, VP Virtual Reality, HTC VIVE. “We built Vive to deliver the most immersive, room-scale VR experience on the market today. Companies like First Contact and VRsenal help us meet this vision and we’re excited to see what the VR-15 rifle offers to the VR experience.”

VRsenal builds the highest quality VR peripherals and integrations on the market. The VR-15 is completely wireless, with zero lag, and is fully integrated with the Vive’s Lighthouse system, allowing every move to be tracked with sub-millimeter accuracy. The VR-15 is constructed of engineering-grade nylon, and is hand-finished with a worn metal patina. It’s also outfitted with weighted trigger pull, four ambidextrous analogue thumbsticks, and glass optics for authenticity.

The team at First Contact has leveraged its background crafting AAA first-person-shooter games and cutting-edge VR projects to give ROM: Extraction an intense, highly replayable punch. Players defend themselves against extraterrestrial robots by utilizing their “Reflex” power (the ability to slow down time), which brings an unprecedented style of strategic combat to VR—which First Contact has dubbed “throw, slow and shoot.” Beyond the expanded functionality brought by the VR-15, ROM: Extraction has a robust DLC plan that includes cooperative multiplayer, new levels, enemies, weapons, power-ups and more in the coming months. Today’s version of the game is just the tip of the iceberg.

ROM: Extraction is available now on Steam and the Oculus Store for $19.99.

VRsenal’s products are available to commercial partners through www.VRsenal.com.

VOODOO Trailer Released

Los Angeles, CA – January 4, 2017 – Freestyle Digital Media, the recently-acquired digital film distribution division of Byron Allen’s Entertainment Studios has acquired the North American rights to the highly-anticipated horror feature VOODOO.  VOODOO debuts on VOD through Freestyle Digital Media on February 24, 2017.

Produced by HyperCube Films, VOODOO tells the story of an innocent southern girl, Dani, vacationing in Los Angeles to evade her increasingly complicated life.  Once Dani arrives in Los Angeles, she learns that trying to escape her past is not as easy as she had hoped.

VOODOO is written and directed by Tom Costabile, and stars Samantha Stewart (Days of Our Lives), Dominic Matteucci, Ruth Reynolds, Daniel Kozul, Ron Jeremy, and Lavelle Roby.

VOODOO official website: http://voodoothemovie.com/

Corsair Unveils CES 2017 Lineup

CES 2017, Las Vegas, NV – January 5th 2017 – CORSAIR®, a world leader in enthusiast memory, high-performance gaming hardware and PC components today announced the immediate availability of the new CORSAIR HX series and CORSAIR TX-M series of enthusiast power supplies, as well as a major update to its CORSAIR Bulldog small form factor barebones kit, Bulldog 2.0.

Platinum and Gold – HX and TX-M

Equipped with 100% Japanese 105°C capacitors the new HX series offers 80 Plus Platinum efficiency for up to 94% efficient operation. Fully modular cabling makes clutter-free builds easy, while a large 135mm cooling fan and Zero RPM mode allow for virtually silent operation. Rated for operating temperatures up to 50°C, the HX series is designed to deliver superb electrical performance and efficiency in the most demanding situations.

Also furnished with 100% Japanese capacitors and rated to 50°C, the new TX-M series delivers 80 Plus Gold efficiency paired with fantastic electrical performance and reliability. Combined with semi-modular cables for immaculate builds, the TX-M series hits the sweet spot of features and performance that PC enthusiasts demand.

Bulldog 2.0 – Build Your Living Room PC Better

CORSAIR Bulldog 2.0 retains the sleek looks and small form factor layout of its predecessor, effortlessly fitting into home theatre or living room setups. Within the glossy exterior, Bulldog 2.0 is completely upgraded for 2017, to be the ultimate living room barebone kit. Boasting the very latest Intel Z270 Mini-ITX motherboard from MSI, Bulldog 2.0 is ready to overclock and push performance limits with new Intel 7th Generation® Core™ processors. Bulldog 2.0 also includes an all-new low-profile liquid CPU cooler, the H6SF, and the best-in-class CORSAIR SF600 SFX PSU, as well two low-noise 92mm PWM-controlled cooling fans based on the award-winning CORSAIR ML Series. With a high-performance case, PSU, cooler and motherboard all included and pre-installed, CORSAIR Bulldog 2.0 is the ideal starting point to build the ultimate living room PC.

CORSAIR at CES 2017:

CORSAIR is also launching several new gaming peripherals and technologies at CES 2017, including the K95 RGB Platinum gaming keyboard and Scimitar Pro MMO gaming mouse. To check out all the CORSAIR CES 2017 launches, please visit:

www.corsair.com/ces2017

Media and industry guests can see all these new products first hand at the CORSAIR press suite, located at the Palazzo resort hotel & casino, suite 49 902. Contact the CORSAIR public relations team for more information.

Availability, Warranty and Pricing:

The CORSAIR HX Series of PSUs are available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors, and are backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty.

The CORSAIR TX-M Series of PSUs are also available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors, and are backed by a comprehensive seven-year warranty.

CORSAIR BULLDOG 2.0 is available immediately from the CORSAIR webstore and select retailers in North America, the UK and Australia. CORSAIR Bulldog 2.0 is backed by a two-year warranty.

For up-to-date pricing on the new HX Series, TX-M Series and Bulldog 2.0 please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.

Web Pages:

For more information on the CORSAIR HX series of PSUs, please visit

http://cms.corsair.com/en-us/power-supply-units/hx-hxi-series

For more information on the CORSAIR TX-M series of PSUs, please visit

http://cms.corsair.com/en-us/power-supply-units/txm-series

For more information on CORSAIR Bulldog 2.0 please visit

http://www.corsair.com/bulldog

Nyko Announces New Console and VR Peripherals at CES

LOS ANGELES – January 5, 2017 – Inventive video game accessories manufacturer Nyko Technologies today unveiled a new line of game console and VR accessories at the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas for PlayStation®VR, HTC Vive™, Xbox One™ S, and PlayStation®4 Slim and Pro editions. The new VR products include Charge Block for PSVR, a drop and charge solution for controllers, and VR Halo, a padded slip-on cover for Vive controllers designed to protect your gear from daily wear and tear. Nyko also unveiled an updated version of its popular Data Bank Pro storage solution for the PS4 Slim and PS4 Pro, and Modular Charge Station S for the new Xbox One S. All products are set to launch in 2017.

Hands on demos are available from Thursday, Jan. 5, to Saturday, Jan. 7, at Nyko’s exhibition suite in the Westgate North Hall, #15121. Members of the press interested in scheduling a personal demo can contact NYKO for an appointment.

“This year’s product lineup combines Nyko’s history and established legacy with our vision for the future of VR and gaming technology,” said Chris Arbogast, Nyko’s head of sales and marketing. “We’re not only expanding our line of innovative VR accessories with new charging, storage, and controller solutions for PSVR, and HTC Vive, but we’re also updating some of our most valued products for the new generation of consoles.”

VR Accessories

Charge Block for PlayStation VR

Charge Block is a simple, sleek drop and charge solution for PlayStation Move Motion controllers. The block plugs into any wall outlet or USB port for rapid recharging and can also connect to multiple Charge Blocks from different platforms to create a clean, universal charging system for all your gaming needs. Charge Block for PSVR will be available in 2017 for an MSRP of $19.99.

Charge Link for PlayStation VR

Charge Link is a 10-foot USB Y-shaped charging cable that enables simultaneous charging of both PSVR controllers. The extra-long length and flexible Y-shape give users ample room for uninterrupted gameplay while charging. The Micro-USB cable is universal and can charge any device that uses a standard USB port. Charge Link for PSVR will be available in 2017 for an MSRP of $14.99.

Charge Base for HTC Vive

Charge Base brings the unique drop and charge functionality to the Vive’s wireless controllers using Nyko’s patented dongle charging technology. Simple LED lights illuminate to indicate the charge status of the controllers. Charge Base is AC powered, and plugs into any standard outlet for faster recharging. Charge Base will be available in 2017 for an MSRP of $29.99.

VR Halo for HTC Vive

VR Halo is a padded slip-on cover for Vive controllers designed to protect your gear from daily wear and tear. The cover easily slips on to the top of the Vive controller without blocking any sensors, buttons, or ports for seamless gameplay. VR Halo will be available in 2017 for an MSRP of $9.99.

Console Customization for Xbox One S and PlayStation 4 Slim and Pro

Battery Block for Xbox One

Battery Block is a rechargeable solution for Xbox One batteries that frees you from the endless barrage of disposable batteries. Battery Block comes with one 1200mAh rechargeable battery and replacement cover. Using a simple spring-loaded chamber, users can easily press the battery in and out of the the block to charge it – the battery glows red while charging, and then turns green when ready to be used. Battery Block plugs into any wall outlet or USB port for rapid recharging, and connects to other Charge Blocks from different platforms to create a universal charging system. Battery Block will begin shipping later in 2017 for an MSRP of $24.99.

Data Bank Pro for PlayStation 4 Slim and Pro

Data Bank Pro is an essential, add-on accessory for the PS4 Slim and Pro that expands the internal memory by allowing the use of an additional 3.5-inch hard drive. The Data Bank Pro is easy to install – it plugs into the hard drive bay via the included SATA adaptor and USB cable by accessing a single screw (using an included screwdriver). Once users remove the 2.5” drive and reinstall it along with a 3.5-inch drive using the included adapter, they can easily cold-swap between the two drives with a simple flip of a switch. The versatile design allows the Data Bank to rest on top of the PS4 or alongside it, so that it can be used in both the vertical and horizontal positions. It also has a dedicated AC cord to power the drive, so it avoids pulling additional power from the console. Data Bank Pro will be available in 2017 for an MSRP of $39.99.

Modular Charge Station S for Xbox One S

Modular Charge Station S is a simple drop and charge solution for Xbox One S controllers. It attaches to the top of the console and compliments the sleek design of the Xbox One S, allowing simultaneous charging of two wireless controllers via the two included rechargeable battery packs without the hassle of pesky cords. Two included rechargeable battery packs provide up to 25 hours of play time. Modular Charge Station for Xbox One S will be available in 2017 for an MSRP of $29.99.

Innex Unveils New Retro Gaming Products for CES 2017

Pomona, California — (January 5, 2017) – This week in Las Vegas, Innex Inc®, an exclusive distributor of Retro-Bit®, will showcase its latest product lineup at CES 2017.  Appointments are now available to experience exclusive demos and check out the entire line in the South Hall 2 booth #26402.

Retro-Bit Mega Table

A unique piece of furniture that doubles as a fully functional four-button USB controller.

Retro-Bit Generations Portable

A portable handheld 100 -in -one gaming device with a slim design and HD display that brings the power of an arcade to the palm of your hands. Ideal for playing your favorite retro games on the go!

Stubbins: Series 1 and 2

Series 2 of an exclusive line of unique and collectable plush figures featuring Sony characters

Super Retro Boy

An innovative 3-in-1 handheld gaming system with a single port that instantly plays all the classic Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance games without any special adapters

KMD Headphones (SURGE)

A multi-platform customizable gaming headset that will help you step up to the next level

Retro Bit – 8Bitdo

The first N64 style Bluetooth controller for console, PC/Mac and touch devices

8-Bitdo

Announcing the new NES30 Classic Edition compatible with the NES classic edition console

ROCCAT

ROCCAT’s first truly multiplatform product that works everywhere. As gamers ourselves, ROCCAT® understands that times have changed and gaming has evolved. Gaming has gone multi-platform and become ubiquitous. Gamers want a refined, fluid experience that they can enjoy everywhere rather than awkwardly swapping between expensive peripherals that are limited to a single device. They want one single headset that replaces all of their other ones – one headset for everything, with nothing else needed. That’s why we developed the Cross specifically for YOU, not your device. The Cross is the multi-platform over-ear stereo gaming headset that’s equally at home on your PC, Mac, PS4 and Xbox One* as it is when you’re on the go with your mobile device. It’s the headset that’s outstanding, everywhere.

E-Blue

The booth will house a large PC gaming area filled with E-Blue gaming products including gaming chairs, peripherals and desks, headsets, accessories and more.

Innex Inc will have live demos and team members on hand to discuss the product in the South Hall 2 booth #26402.

Since 2007, Retro-Bit® has been at the forefront of the retro gaming world, introducing innovative and exciting platforms to re-experience a classic gaming era. Continuing with that tradition, Retro-Bit aims to bring all the great aspects of old school gaming to the modern gamer, specializing in manufacturing third party accessories for all of your favorite Retro gaming consoles. With systems and hardware to support the NES®, SNES®, and Genesis® entertainment system, Retro-Bit serves as a connection to the past. Previous releases include: Retro Bit Generations, The Super Retro® Trio, The Retroduo® Portable, The Retroduo, GenX and the Retro Entertainment System.

Diablo III: Reaper of Souls 20th Anniversary Patch Released

January 4, 2017 – Diablo III patch 2.4.3 is now live in the Americas for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One! Check out the full PC patch notes below to learn all about the latest changes. To view our console patch notes, click here.

Important: Please note that you will not be prompted to download patch 2.4.3 until the patch is live in your home region. If you are logging in from a European or Asian client, you will need to wait for this patch to release in that region before it can be installed. Additionally, if your home region is in the Americas, you will be unable to log into Europe or Asia using Global Play after patch 2.4.3 is live until those regions have also patched.

LucidSound Now Shipping LS40 Wireless Surround Headset

San Diego, CA – January 4, 2017 LucidSound, innovators of premium gaming audio hardware, announced today the shipping of the LS40 Wireless Surround Universal Gaming Headset, the highly-anticipated flagship headset in the critically acclaimed LucidSound range.

First announced at the E3 Electronic Expo earlier in the year, the LS40 is the first headset in the range to deliver surround sound audio, the feature most requested since LucidSound began shipping their debut headset, early in 2016.

Powered by state-of-the-art DTS Headphone:X audio technology, LucidSound’s audio engineers have worked closely with the team based at DTS to accurately tune the 50mm Neodymium drivers, resulting in highly detailed positional audio, specially crafted for gaming. When playing with DTS Headphone:X technology, gamers are rewarded with an entirely new level of audio immersion. Able to pinpoint every enemy footstep, approaching threat, and track teammates in battle – even from behind – provides an enormous advantage resulting in a more thrilling gaming experience and notably improving the performance of the player. With surround sound, unrivalled on a dedicated gaming headset, the LS40 dramatically enhances competitive online gaming.

With DTS Headphone:X technology working in harmony with LucidSound custom tuned drivers, gamers can enjoy audiophile-grade 7.1 surround sound, which remains crisp and exceptionally detailed thanks to uncompressed wireless technology. Advanced channel-hoping engineering actively searches for the optimum wireless connection, dramatically reducing interference and providing a rock-solid signal with the console or host device. In addition, the LS40 features two distinct surround-sound modes and three enhanced stereo modes, catering to all forms of media. Each mode is announced to the gamer via a voice prompt allowing for easy mode selection.

The LucidSound signature control scheme returns with enhanced features allowing gamers to individually alter game and chat volume simply by rotating the ear-cup. The LS40 allows easy adjustment of controls with no need to search for buttons or ungainly rockers or switches. All-new smartphone control provides full support for cell phones allowing gamers to take a call, hang up, and control audio playback using the discrete button fashioned into the center of the earcup.

Designed for sustained gaming sessions the integrated rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of uninterrupted use and a new selectable on/off mic-monitoring system allows players to hear their own voice through their headset.

“It’s been less than a year since the inception of our first headset and we continue to strive to bring new levels of excitement and innovation to gamers,” said Chris Von Huben, CEO of LucidSound. “Our single biggest request from gamers is for the introduction of a surround sound headset and we’re confident that the highly anticipated LS40 will set a new benchmark for premium gaming audio, proving well worth the wait. Our core belief in uncompromised audio quality and genuine innovation continues to drive our development program and we look forward to continued growth as we head into 2017.”

The LS40 Wireless Surround Universal Gaming Headset is compatible with a wide range of gaming devices including the PlayStation®4, Xbox One, PlayStation®3, PC/MAC, mobile phones, and smart devices.

For more information, visit lucidsound.com and follow LucidSound on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach Gameplay Trailer

Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach brings you to a dark era of carnage and endless war. There is no peace among the stars: the Imperium of Man is beset on all sides by all kinds of threats. Among them is the Orks, a barbaric and warlike xeno race. One of their fiercest leaders, Grukk Face-Rippa, leads his Red Waaagh! in the Sanctus Reach system. Worlds after worlds fall to billions of Orks, until only one last planet resists the green tide: the Knight World of Alaric Prime. This is where a brave company of Space Wolves makes its stand to defend the last bastion of mankind in the system…

Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach is a 3D turn-based strategy game like you’ve never seen before: fast, immediate, deep, impressive to look at and incredibly fun! Lead the Space Wolves in their struggle against the Orks through two uncompromising and long story-driven campaigns: Stormclaw and Hour of the Wolf. Command several dozen different authentically crafted units and heroes, with unique and extremely detailed 3D models that bring the universe of Warhammer 40,000 to life.

Logitech Unveils G533 Wireless Gaming Headset

NEWARK, Calif. — Jan. 4, 2017 — Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) today introduced the Logitech® G533 Wireless Gaming Headset. With professional grade wireless technology, U.S. patent- pending Pro-G™ audio drivers and DTS Headphone:X® 7.1 surround sound, the headset delivers advanced audio performance and wireless convenience. The Logitech G533 also features a long battery life and purist design, giving you maximum comfort during marathon gaming sessions.

“Our audio team set out to create a headset that delivers the most immersive and accurate PC gameplay experience,” said Ujesh Desai, vice president and general manager of the Logitech gaming business. “With DTS Headphone:X and our Pro-G Driver, the result is amazing. Now, you can amplify game sounds to achieve the most accurate positioning and experience in-game effects.”

Advanced Audio Performance

The U.S. patent-pending advanced Pro-G audio drivers are made with hybrid mesh materials that deliver audio performance previously only found in high-end audiophile headphones. The drivers deliver clear highs and lows with minimal distortion.

Highly realistic DTS Headphone:X surround sound technology accurately replicates 7.1 speaker placement and audio positioning, so you can hear in-game environmental effects and positional audio that game designers intend you to hear, such as how far away enemies are and which direction they are coming from. You can also tune the volume levels for each of the seven audio channels.

Superior Wireless Technology

Featuring advanced lossless digital audio transmission, the Logitech G533 delivers wireless convenience and incredible high fidelity sound at a range of up to 15 meters. The headset maintains a strong connection, even in high Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI) settings when there are dozens of wireless signals in proximity. The ultra-low latency wireless connection ensures virtually no lag between your audio and your game, as well as lag free performance while watching movies and streaming media.

High Performance Design

With the latest in materials and manufacturing techniques, the Logitech G533 Wireless Gaming Headset is a durable, yet lightweight headset that you can wear for hours. It features a lightweight  over-the-ear design, with sports mesh ear pads that are breathable and can be easily removed for cleaning.

Smart Mute and Microphone

The Logitech G533 integrates the popular auto mute feature for the foldable mic, and also improves on noise cancelling and EQ tuning to provide the clearest of audio for competitive gaming chat and communications. The new pop filter provides noise reduction for hisses and pops.

Battery Life

Rechargeable, replaceable batteries power the headset for up to 15 hours non-stop on a single charge, making it the perfect wireless headset for marathon gaming sessions. You can also use Logitech Gaming Software (LGS) to keep an eye on your charge level, so you don’t run out of juice in the middle of a game.

Fine-Tune Controls

The Logitech G533 Wireless Gaming Headset features a noise-cancelling microphone on a folding, extendable boom for crystal-clear voice chat and communications. An easy-to-reach volume control roller and mic mute button on the left earcup makes it simple to adjust audio settings on the fly and to automatically mute the microphone, just fold it up. For fine-tuned settings, use LGS to set equalizer, surround sound, side tone and microphone levels on a per-game basis. And, reprogram the mute button to any function, such as “play/pause” to start/stop your media.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech G533 Wireless Gaming Headset is expected to be available at global retailers beginning in January 2017 for a suggested retail price of $149.99. For more information please visit our website, our blog or connect with us on Facebook.