Author - Jerry Paxton

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

Star Wars Zero Company Cast Revealed

Bit Reactor, in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games, revealed some of the cast for Star Wars Zero Company, the upcoming single-player turn-based tactics game. Star Wars Zero Company stars Jonathan Freeman and Erica Luttrell as Hawks, Vic Michaelis as Runa Blask, Rekha Sharma as Fathom, and welcomes back veteran Star Wars voice cast performers Matt Lanter (Anakin Skywalker) and Dee Bradley Baker (Trick) from the Disney+ series Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars: The Bad Batch. Because the team at Bit Reactor feels a tactics game shouldn’t sacrifice on elegance, Star Wars Zero Company features a cinematic feel that is rarely seen in a game of this genre. In order to achieve this, they brought together an incredibly talented cast, immersing players in a tense, clandestine conflict in the shadows of the Clone Wars.

Star Wars Zero Company launches August 27 on PC, PlayStation 5 and XBOX Series X|S.

In Star Wars Zero Company, players will step into the shoes of former Galactic Republic officer Hawks, who they’re able to fully customize, including their choice of a masculine or feminine voice, performed by Jonathan Freeman and Erica Luttrell, respectively. As the leader of Zero Company, an unconventional outfit of professionals for hire from across the galaxy, which includes a Clone Trooper, a Mandalorian, a Jedi Padawan and more, players must hunt down and stop Kundri Fathom (Rekha Sharma), the ruthless leader of the Separatist-aligned cult known as the Infinite Coil.

Zero Company Operatives:

  • Captain Hawks: Jonathan Freeman (M) / Erica Luttrell (F)
  • Trick: Dee Bradley Baker
  • Kabb Uppercut: JB Blanc
  • Jae Mordant: Judy Alice Lee
  • Tel-Rea ‘Tel’ Vokoss: Nicole Rainteau
  • Cly Kullervo: Alex McKenna
  • Luco Bronc: Jason Spisak

Cast & Cameos:

  • Bennic Halloren: Leo Howard
  • Runa Blask: Vic Michaelis
  • Neesh Renark: Jim Pirri
  • M-3VO, “Meevo”: DC Douglas
  • Anakin Skywalker: Matt Lanter
  • Gorga: Kevin Michael Richardson
  • Fathom: Rekha Sharma
  • Typhon: Hunter Smith
  • Visser: Dylan Kenin

In Star Wars Zero Company, customization is central to the experience. Hawks and recruited Operators can be created from eight iconic Star Wars species: Devaronian, Human, Neimoidian, Ovissian, Togruta, Twi’lek, Weequay and Zabrak. Voices, outfits and many aspects of Hawks and an Operator’s appearance can be customized along with combat specializations and talents over time. It’s up to players to unite their Operators and form the best squad for the mission at hand.

Members of the cast, alongside the game’s developers, will be participating in a panel during San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday, July 25 from 4-5pm PT. This panel will give attendees a behind-the-scenes conversation between Narrative & Cinematic Director Aaron Contreras (Bit Reactor), Creative Executive Kelsey Sharpe (Lucasfilm), and four of the cast members, including Dee Bradley Baker, Jonathan Freeman, Vic Michaelis and Rekha Sharma.

Star Wars Zero Company will be available starting August 27 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S. Pre-orders are currently available for Star Wars Zero Company Standard Edition for $49.99 SRP on PC and $59.99 SRP on PlayStation® 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The Deluxe Edition is available for $59.99 SRP on PC and $69.99 SRP on consoles.

House Flipper Franchise Gets A New Roadmap

The final roadmap leading to the biggest House Flipper 2 DLC – the Pets DLC – is now out and reveals all the HF2 content coming till the end of this year.

The DLC will be available in Q4 for PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, and players can already add House Flipper 2 – Pets DLC to their Steam (https://store.steampowered.com/app/3680100/House_Flipper_2__Pets_DLC/) wishlist.

https://youtu.be/7EcmxXKzasY?si=hCNUR6b-nDrYVNe5

This DLC was one of the most crucial and popular additions to the original House Flipper, and thus the most-awaited content addition for House Flipper 2! It is the final and largest part of the Q3/Q4 roadmap – players should expect it to arrive at the very end of the year.

The developers promised multiple devlogs leading to this grand release, so the community will be able to stay tuned about the progress.

On top of that, the devs invite everyone to Cologne to visit the House Flipper 2 booth at Gamescom 2026, where the fans will have a chance to play the official House Flipper 2 – Pets DLC Demo!

What is more, the roadmap also reveals a free update expanding the modding potential for the game. For now, the devs are working on allowing custom materials like wallpapers, furniture patterns, as well as wood, metal, and brick types.

The Nintendo Switch 2 release for House Flipper 2 was also mentioned as something that’s coming “later this year”, and surprisingly, will automatically include the latest Sakura DLC.

Last but not least, a series of House Flipper Franchise promotions just kicked off on Steam, with discounts for the recent Sakura DLC for HF2, as well as all the other franchise titles.

Marvel Announces Indiana Jones and the Sword of Pandemonium

Fans who attended the Lucasfilm Publishing Panel at San Diego Comic-Con just witnessed one of the weekend’s biggest surprises! Following reveals for upcoming Marvel Star Wars titles, Marvel Comics’ Outgoing Editor-in-Chief and Editor, Asia Originals C.B. Cebulski announced that Indiana Jones returns to Marvel Comics this December in INDIANA JONES AND THE SWORD OF PANDEMONIUM, an all-new five-issue limited series from superstar writer Jason Aaron and acclaimed artist Aaron Kuder. The series kicks off an all-new era of comic book adventures for the iconic archaeologist set during the original groundbreaking films.

In the wake of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indy’s most notorious villains, including the impossible return of an archenemy, seek a terrifying new source of power to recoup their loss—one that’s fallen into the hands of his former companion, Marion Ravenwood. Now, Indiana Jones has to race to the far corners of the globe in search of a biblical weapon, embarking on an epic quest that will put both his archeology skills and skepticism of the supernatural to the ultimate test!

“I’ve wanted to adventure alongside Indiana Jones since I was 8 years old, to climb through ancient crypts and run for my life in exotic locales, to seek the world’s most fabled treasures. Now here I am, feeling the same sort of joy I felt in 2015, when we launched Star Wars #1,” Aaron shared. “This is the Indy of Raiders of the Lost Ark, fresh off his harrowing experience on the island of Geheimhaven. Dark events were set in motion that day, strange new enemies have risen from the shadows, and for Indy and Marion Ravenwood the globe-trotting, punching, whip-cracking, and death-defying escapades, not to mention the archaeology, have just begun.”

“I’m very excited to be on this book with Jason Aaron. Indie has always felt like he should be a staple of a comic book character,” Kuder added.

The reveal of INDIANA JONES AND THE SWORD OF PANDEMONIUM follows the recent announcement of ‘Indiana Jones: The Further Adventures Book I’ and ‘Indiana Jones: The Further Adventures Book II,’ new deluxe hardcovers collecting the character’s beloved 1980s Marvel Comics sagas, coming in September.

Check out Bryan Hitch’s main cover along with a variant cover by the legendary Alex Ross and the first of a five-part connecting cover by Aaron Kuder. Stay tuned for more news about INDIANA JONES AND THE SWORD OF PANDEMONIUM in the months ahead, including a special variant cover program. For more information, visit Marvel.com.

THE GUNDAM BASE Expands to Two New Locations in the U.S.

Bandai Namco Amusement America Inc. (“BNAA”) and Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America Inc. (“BNTCA”) are excited to announce the continued expansion of THE GUNDAM BASE in the United States with two new locations scheduled to open throughout 2026. Following the successful launch of THE GUNDAM BASE Chicago at Fashion Outlets of Chicago—the first permanent THE GUNDAM BASE location in North America—fans will soon be able to experience the world of GUNPLA at new stores in Minneapolis and Seattle.

The upcoming locations include:

• THE GUNDAM BASE Minneapolis – Opens Fall 2026 at Mall of America
• THE GUNDAM BASE Seattle – Opens Fall 2026 at Westfield Southcenter

THE GUNDAM BASE serves as the ultimate destination for fans of the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam franchise and Gundam plastic model kits (GUNPLA). Each location offers an immersive retail experience featuring a wide selection of model kits, exclusive merchandise, premium displays, and special products that celebrate over 45 years of Gundam history. Since opening in 2025, THE GUNDAM BASE Chicago has welcomed thousands of visitors from across North America, becoming a must-visit destination for both longtime Gundam enthusiasts and newcomers discovering the hobby for the first time. The overwhelming response from fans helped pave the way for additional expansion into key markets across the United States. “We’re excited to continue expanding THE GUNDAM BASE across the United States with the opening of our new locations in Minneapolis and Seattle. We look forward to welcoming both new and longtime Gundam fans to THE GUNDAM BASE.

Visitors to THE GUNDAM BASE can expect:

• A comprehensive assortment of GUNPLA model kits for builders of all skill levels
• Exclusive products and limited-edition merchandise
• Life-sized displays and immersive Gundam-themed environments
• Community-focused events and special activations
• Expert staff available to support and inspire builders

Additional details regarding grand opening celebrations, exclusive merchandise, and special events for each location will be announced closer to their respective opening dates.

Mattel Unveils Warthog Mattel Brick Shop for SDCC 2026

Mattel unveils the newest addition to the Mattel Brick Shop collection, the highly anticipated Halo set is a buildable Halo UNSC M12 Warthog from the original Halo game trilogy. Including 935 bricks, the set features a detailed interior and opening hood with an authentically replicated engine.

UNSC M12 Warthog Mattel Brick Shop

SRP: $75.59

HALO fans will never miss their shot with the Warthog Mattel Brick Shop set, featuring a rotating rear turret, adjustable independent wheel suspension, a working front winch with a 7-inch string, and detailed pad-printed graphics that faithfully recreate the vehicle from the game. It also includes custom parts and decals that transform the vehicle into the M12G1 Gauss Hog, complete with a rear-mounted Gauss Cannon, fan-favorite multiplayer emblems, and battle-damage effects. The set also includes two swappable wheel covers: green M12 Halo Warthog METAL wheels (A state) and HW Originals PR5 wheels (B state).

Ravensburger as a Returning Co-Sponsor of 2026 Gen Con

Gen Con, the largest and longest-running tabletop gaming convention in North America, today announced international board game publisher Ravensburger as a returning Co-Sponsor of Gen Con 2026. Ravensburger will receive dedicated event space and physical and digital marketing at Gen Con’s upcoming 2026 convention as part of the agreement.

“Gen Con is where the tabletop community experiences what’s next, and we’re proud to continue our partnership with an event that has played such a key role in our journey,” said Stephane Madi, CEO and Managing Director, Ravensburger North America. “Fans attending this year’s show can anticipate exciting experiences from an immersive panel playthrough of our newest Disney Lorcana TCG Illumineer’s Quest: The Great Hunny Rescue to our first Gen Con Challenge Championship Qualifier (CCQ) to the return of fan-favorite speed puzzling and Disney Villainous tournaments. Every year we’re inspired by the passion of fans, creators, retailers, and partners who make this community so special, and we look forward to celebrating another unforgettable Gen Con together.”

At Gen Con 2026, fans of Ravensburger have an opportunity to be among the first to get their hands on several new games, including special, early access to the new Illumineer’s Quest: The Great Hunny Rescue from Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game. Gen Con 2026 will also be the first time fans can purchase Mind the Lines (the English-language localization of the 2025 Spiel des Jahres nominee Krakel Orakel), an innovative drawing party game. Several other new 2026 games will also be for sale, including the newly launched Horrified: DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Ravenloft and three new entries to the Disney Villainous franchise.

In addition to sales opportunities, fans looking to get hands-on time with Ravensburger games can visit one of Ravensburger’s multiple event and demo spaces, including Ravensburger’s Booth (#2001) in the Exhibit Hall and Ravensburger’s event space in Event Hall E. The fan-favorite Ravensburger claw machine is back by popular demand this year, featuring a show-exclusive plush tied to the new edition of the classic dice rolling game, Las Vegas. Plus, attendees can pose in the cosplay area in front of Disney Lorcana TCG and Horrified: DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Ravenloft backdrops.

About Ravensburger

Ravensburger AG is an international group with several renowned toy brands. Its mission is: “Encourage discovery of what really matters.” Thus, Ravensburger products and services promote togetherness, build knowledge and social skills, enable relaxation, and create lasting memories. The company´s most important brand, the Ravensburger blue triangle, is one of the leading European brands for games, puzzles, and arts & crafts as well as for German-language children’s and youth books. Toys with the blue triangle are sold worldwide. Furthermore, the international brands BRIO and ThinkFun expand the group’s portfolio. Ravensburger has been a family business since it was founded in 1883 and is shaped by tradition and grown values. In 2025, Ravensburger had 2,579 employees and achieved net revenue of EUR 742 million. * Ravensburger runs its own plants in Ravensburg (Germany) and Polička (Czech Republic).

About Gen Con

Gen Con is North America’s largest and longest-running annual event devoted to tabletop gaming culture. The convention, which began in 1968 in Lake Geneva, WI, takes place each summer in Indianapolis, IN. During the convention, attendees shop and demo games from hundreds of exhibiting companies and choose from thousands of ticketed events representing a wide array of board games, card games, roleplaying games, seminars, entertainment events, and more.

The Walking Dead: Dead City Season 3 Comes to The Walking Dead: Aftermath

Today, during the official The Walking Dead: Dead City Season 3 panel in Hall H at San Diego Comic Con, it was revealed that key characters from Dead City Season 3 will be joining Ares Interactive’s mobile roguelite game, The Walking Dead: Aftermath. Starting on July 30 and continuing to rollout throughout the month of August, Survivors will become available in a series of limited-time, in-game events.

Playable survivors that are joining include:

  • Dead City‘s Mason Dillard (Available starting July 30)
  • Negan (Available starting August 7)
  • Maggie (Available starting August 28)

Support base survivors (available in the battle pass starting Aug. 1):

  • Hershel