Author - Jerry Paxton

Sineaptic SE-1 Dual Ribbon Array Driver Headphones Review

2023/11/20
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

Searching for innovative and immersive sound experiences has led to exploring various transducer technologies in the realm of audiophile headphones. While dynamic and planar magnetic drivers have dominated the market, ribbon drivers have long held the allure of pristine audio reproduction, but their complexity and high cost have limited their widespread adoption. Enter the Sineaptic SE-1 Dual Ribbon Array Driver Headphones, a groundbreaking pair of wireless headphones that bring the benefits of ribbon technology to a wider audience at an accessible price point. I had never experienced a pair of ribbon driver equipped headphones before, so I was very excited to try these out. Most ribbon driver equipped headphones are well over $1000 dollars! Not in this case though as Sineaptic is bringing the high-end technology to the gaming market in a $199 dollar package!

Design and Comfort
The Sineaptic SE-1 headphones exude a sleek and modern aesthetic, with their matte black finish and minimalist design. The earcups, adorned with a subtle Sineaptic logo, are constructed from a durable plastic that feels comfortable and lightweight. The headband sits on the wearer’s head by way of a wing-like suspension system, providing a snug and secure fit without causing discomfort even during extended listening sessions. This is especially important given the headset’s weight! It comes in at a hefty 412 grams, but with the suspension system you won’t notice. The SE-1 is wireless by nature and supports Bluetooth 5.2, but it also comes with a 3.5 audio cable to allow connectivity to all sorts of devices such as gaming controllers, mobile devices and such. It charges by way of a USB-C cable and gets a very decent amount of battery life. The SE-1 includes an embedded microphone which is fine for the occasional voice call, but I wouldn’t rely on it for content creation.

Sound Quality: A Symphony of Detail and Clarity
The Sineaptic SE-1 headphones truly shine in the realm of sound quality. The ribbon drivers deliver an exceptional level of detail, clarity, and nuance, revealing the subtle intricacies of musical compositions. The bass response is deep and impactful without overpowering, while the midrange is rich and well-defined, allowing vocals and instruments to shine through. The treble is smooth and extended, without any harshness or sibilance. The SE-1’s soundstage is impressively wide and spacious, creating an immersive soundscape that transports the listener to the heart of the music. The imaging is precise and well-defined, allowing the listener to distinguish individual instruments and vocals within the mix easily. The Sineaptic SE-1 headphones deliver a truly exceptional audio experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles. The ribbon drivers provide an unmatched level of detail, clarity, and nuance, while the comfortable design and long battery life make them a joy to use.

Conclusion: A Ribbon Renaissance Indeed
The Sineaptic SE-1 Dual Ribbon Array Driver Headphones mark a significant step forward in the world of wireless headphones. By bringing the benefits of ribbon technology to a wider audience at an accessible price point, Sineaptic has opened the door to a new era of immersive and high-quality audio experiences. For those seeking the pinnacle of audiophile-grade sound in a wireless headphone, the SE-1 headphones are a truly exceptional choice that won’t break your bank account.

Overall Rating 5 out of 5

GamingShogun 2023 Holiday Gift Guide Series – Creator Cameras

2023/11/20
Jerry Paxton
Articles, Geek News, News, Tech News

It’s that time of year again: The Holiday season! This is the time of year where we go crazy with our pocketbooks and buy a bunch of fun gifts for ourselves and others. With Black Friday right around the corner, we wanted to start this gift guide with one of our favorite types of technology: Creator Cameras!

Overall Winner

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo is the most remarkable portable camera to hit the market in years. It’s the ultimate evolution of what we hoped the DJI Osmo Pocket series would become. It sports a 1-inch image sensor, gimbal stabilization, and a tethered wireless mic (with the creator combo). It also has a host of accessories like magnetic ND filters as well as wide-angle and black pro mist lenses. This camera is a total game changer for creators and it is a must-buy for your video content gathering needs.

Price: $669

DJI Product Link

Best Action Camera

DJI Osmo Action 4

Let’s face it: the GoPro Hero 12 Black is barely an upgrade over the 11. Simply put, GoPro blew it this year. Thankfully, DJI picked up the slack with the DJI Osmo Action 4. The Osmo Action 4 features a new 1/1.3″ inch image sensor, 10-bit and D-Log M modes, and the best magnetic quick-release system ever to grace a camera. It’s also way more competitively priced than GoPro’s “upgrade.”

Price: $399

DJI Product Link

Runner-Up

Sony ZV-1 II Vlog Camera

The Sony ZV-1 II vlog camera is an outstanding portable camera for content creators. With a 1-inch-type stacked image sensor and artificially intelligent onbord microphone system, not to mention wide-angle lens, the camera is pretty great. It’s biggest issues are its high price point and lack of optical image stabilization.

Price: $899.99

Sony Product Link

MantisX X10 Personal Firearms Training System Review

2023/11/18
Jerry Paxton
Action Sports, Airsoft News, Airsoft Reviews, Articles, Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

The Mantis X10 Personal Firearms Training System is a revolutionary training tool that promises to elevate your shooting performance, whether you’re a seasoned competitor, law enforcement officer, or simply someone serious about improving firearm handling. Blending an advanced sensor, intelligent software, and in-depth analysis, the system provides a treasure trove of data to help you identify and rectify shooting deficiencies.

What’s in the Box?

The core of the Mantis X10 system is a small, lightweight sensor unit. Inside, it houses sophisticated movement-tracking technology to capture the finest details of your shooting mechanics. Depending on your chosen package, you’ll get various adapters to connect this sensor securely to your firearm. The standard offering includes a universal magazine rail adapter for both handguns and rifles. Optional adapters provide more tailored mounting options for specific firearm types.

Along with the sensor and adapters, you’ll receive a USB charging cable, ensuring your Mantis X10 is always ready to go.

Setup and Use: Simplicity Meets Functionality

Getting started with the Mantis X10 is remarkably straightforward. Download the free Mantis X app (available on Android and iOS) and create an account. Attach the sensor to your firearm using the appropriate adapter, open the app, and pair your device via Bluetooth. The app’s clear interface guides you through calibration and setup with minimal hassle.

The training potential with the X10 is virtually limitless. It supports everything from basic dry-fire practice to live-fire shooting on the range, as well as exercises with airsoft and CO2 weapons. The app offers a range of pre-designed drills and scenarios across disciplines like pistol, rifle, shotgun, and even archery. You can also create custom drills to pinpoint specific skills you want to refine.

The Magic: Where Data Transforms Training

The Mantis X10 meticulously tracks your firearm’s movement throughout the entire shooting process—before, during, and after the shot. This data is then translated into actionable insights displayed within the app. You see a visual trace of how your gun moved, scores for each shot, and analysis of factors like:

Trigger Control: Detects issues like jerking, flinching, or improper follow-through.
Hold: Measures how steady your hold is, detecting sway to help you improve stability.
Recoil: Analyzes your recoil pattern, highlighting tendencies that lead to inaccurate shots.
Holster Draw Analysis: Breaks down your draw from the holster, calculating speed and identifying areas to improve.
The app also offers dynamic shooting features for moving targets, timed drills, and more, making it feel like a sophisticated training simulator right on your smartphone.

Leveling Up: Beyond the Basics

The Mantis X10 isn’t simply about diagnosing problems, it provides coaching tips tailored to your specific weaknesses. After each shot or drill, the app suggests adjustments or exercises to focus on. The system essentially becomes your virtual shooting coach, always on hand to offer guidance.

One of its most powerful features is the ability to track your progress over time. The Mantis X app stores data from every session, allowing you to see improvement trends, set milestones, and stay motivated throughout your training journey.

Who Is It For?

The Mantis X10 is valuable for shooters of any level who want to up their game:

Beginners: Provides immediate feedback to instill good habits and help you master fundamentals.
Intermediate Shooters: Uncovers subtle issues hindering your progress and offers drills to break through plateaus.
Competitors: Gives you the edge by fine-tuning your technique and providing data to make informed adjustments to your equipment or shooting style.

The Verdict

The Mantis X10 Personal Firearms Training System is an exceptionally well-rounded tool that can genuinely improve your shooting performance. Its data-driven approach, intelligent analytics, and user-friendly interface make it a compelling investment for anyone who is serious about reaching their shooting potential.

While there’s always a learning curve, the Mantis X10 excels at making the process intuitive and engaging. For shooters desiring a technological edge in their training, this device delivers results that go beyond what traditional practice can offer.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

L.A. Comic Con Unveils Full Event Listing

2023/11/17
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Industry News, News

L.A. Comic Con, Los Angeles’ largest event for comics, gaming, anime, cosplay and pop culture, is excited to announce its full lineup of panels and entertainment for its December 1-3 show. After breaking new ground in 2022 with a record-shattering 126,000 total fans in attendance, event organizers are leveling up the Con experience yet again by doubling down on some of the most popular elements and activations of last year.

“Los Angeles has some of the most knowledgeable, diverse, and passionate fans in the world and they deserve a show that encompasses everything they love about Con culture,” said Chris DeMoulin, CEO/GM of Los Angeles Comic Con parent company CEI. “Our team has worked to make this year’s show another unforgettable experience that embodies the creativity and artistry of the films, shows, comics, and creators we all know and love.”

L.A. Comic Con 2023 will feature over 250 panels and programming running all weekend to spotlight some of the most beloved names in entertainment today, with opportunities to interact with stars through photo ops and autograph signings. Fans can expect to see creators, artists, cosplayers, and celebrities all weekend long — with over 800 diverse artists and vendors selling comics, collectibles, art, toys, apparel, and everything in between.  

Additionally, an extra 100,000 square feet of floor space has been added to the West Hall, the center for all the gaming and anime action. With that, for the first time in show history, attendees get the chance to test their skills against the best of the best in Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter tournaments — playing alongside the likes of FGC icons like Justin Wong, Punk, and Alex Jebailey (aka Jebailey). Gaming fans will also be treated with access to a live-streaming via stream studio, a free-play area and indie gaming demos powered by The MIX.

Fans can still get their tickets by visiting www.comicconla.com/tickets. 

L.A. Comic Con will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Show Hours for the three-day event are as follows:

  • Friday, December 1: 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, December 2: 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, December 3: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

2023 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS AND DETAILS:

FULL TALENT LINEUP:

  • Amy Jo Johnson, [known for roles in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Felicity, Flashpoint]
  • Billy Boyd, [known for roles in The Lord of the Rings, Child’s Play, Seed of Chucky]
  • Bonnie Wright [known for roles in Harry Potter and After the Dark]
  • Brendan Wayne, [known for roles in The Mandalorian, Book of Boba Fett]
  • Bryce Papenbrook, [known for roles in Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba]
  • David Yost, [known for roles in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Power Rangers Cosmic Fury]
  • Diana Lee Inosanto, [known for roles in The Mandalorian, Ahsoka]
  • Dominic Monaghan, [known for roles in The Lord of the Rings, Lost]
  • Efren Ramírez, [known for roles in Napoleon Dynamite, Employee of the Month]
  • Elijah Wood, [known for roles in Lord of the Rings, Yellowjackets]
  • Eman Esfandi, [known for roles in Ahsoka, King Richard]
  • Emily Rudd, [known for roles in Netflix’s One Piece and Fear Street]
  • Erin Moriarty, [known for roles in The Boys, True Detective]
  • Grace Caroline Currey, [known for role in Shazam!, Annabelle: Creation]
  • Ivanna Sakhno [known for roles in Ahsoka, Pacific Rim Uprising, The Spy Who Dumped Me]
  • James and Oliver Phelps [both known for roles in Harry Potter and Fantastic Friends]
  • Jamie Campbell Bower [known for roles in Stranger Things, Twilight & Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1]
  • Johnny Yong Bosch [known for roles in Power Rangers: The Movie, Trigun]
  • Jon Heder, [known for role in Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory]
  • Karen Fukuhara, [known for roles in Suicide Squad, The Boys]
  • Lateef Crowder, [known for roles in The Mandalorian, Falcon Rising, Tekken]
  • Matt Smith, [known for roles in Doctor Who, House of the Dragon]
  • Natasha Liu Bordizzo [known for roles in Ahsoka, The Voyeurs]
  • Rainn Wilson [known for roles in The Office, Super]
  • Sean Astin [known for roles in The Goonies, Toy Soldiers, Rudy, The Lord of the Rings]
  • Sean Schemmel, [known for roles in Dragon Ball Z, Pokémon]
  • Tom Kenny, [known for roles in SpongeBob SquarePants, Rick and Morty]
  • Trina Nishimura [known for role in Attack on Titan, My Hero Academia]
  • Virginia Gardner [known for roles in Marvel’s Runaways, The Fall]

Programming Includes:

West Hall Experience Featuring Gaming & Anime

The Gaming and Anime Stage

The gaming and anime stage will serve as the hub for a variety of gaming and anime content, including panels with your favorite anime voice actors Johnny Yong Bosch, Bryce Papenbrook, Trina Nishimura & Sean Schemmel. This will also be where the epic Mortal Kombat 1 and Street Fighter 6 tournaments take place all weekend long!

eSports-Style Tournaments 

Attendees get the chance to test their skills against some of the most iconic FGC players in the world  with the Street Fighter 6 Experience — playing against the likes of Justin Wong, an FGC legend who has won more EVO titles than anyone else with nine tournaments victories, as well as one of the top-ranked FGC players currently in North America, Punk, and FGC organizer Alex Jebailey (known as Jebaited on Twitch). There will also be 2 additional tournaments powered by LeagueSpot, where fans can try their hand competitively against other fans at Mortal Kombat 1 and Street Fighter 6,  with the finals being held on the West Hall Gaming Stage.. 

The MIX

The Media Indie Exchange (The MIX) will be bringing 10+ new games, currently in development, to L.A. Comic Con. Fans have a chance to meet with the developers and discover what’s new and upcoming in the gaming industry.

Gaming Freeplay Zone:

Take a seat in our Freeplay zone and enjoy some of the hottest games on PC and console. Covering a range of classics to the newest releases, this hangout spot gives fans a chance to play games with others during the show!

Streamer Studio:

Aspiring creators can stream live to the world directly from the floors of L.A. Comic Con!

The Main Stage:

The main stage is a staple of L.A. Comic Con where much of the most anticipated action takes place— serving as the hub for all the headliner panels and top entertainment guests. Main stage talent will feature the stars behind some of Comic Con fan’s favorite creations from the Star Wars universe, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Power Rangers and more. 

Main Stage Panels Include: 

  • MARVEL: Amazing Spider-Man – Gang War
  • Spotlight on: Matt Smith
  • Ahsoka with Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Ivanna Sakhno, Eman Esfandi & Diana Lee Inosanto
  • The Boys with Erin Moriarty & Karen Fukuhara
  • Spotlight on: Jamie Campbell Bower
  • The Office with Rainn Wilson & Paul Lieberstein
  • Lord of the Rings with Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan & Billy Boyd
  • Harry Potter with Bonnie Wright, James Phelps & Oliver Phelps
  • SpongeBob SquarePants with Tom Kenny & Rodger Bumpass
  • And so much more!

 — See full lineup HERE!

Personalities from Fandom and GameSpot will host the majority of on-stage panels throughout the weekend’s events.

Fandom, the world’s largest fan platform, is teaming up for a multi-faceted marketing partnership with L.A. Comic Con for the first time spanning panel moderation, social media, on-site branding, and giveaways for fans.

  • By marrying Fandom’s massive reach (350M highly engaged gaming fans, 45M pages of content across 250K wikis) and one-of-a-kind content with L.A. Comic Con’s best in class event experience, this alliance brings even more fans opportunities to connect with their favorite entertainment & games.

Friday Night Live with KROQ

The most unpredictable show on radio can now be seen live at L.A. Comic Con. The iconic KROQ will be hosting our Friday night LIVE on the Main Stage, bringing on musicians, comedians and your favorite stars with an epic 2 hour variety show! This year, our special guests announced so far:

  • Logic: the Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist and producer with chart topping albums “Under Pressure” and “The Incredible True Story” 
  • Clown (from Slipknot): Multi-disciplinary artist and founding member of the iconic band

Marvel Comics’ Portfolio Reviews:

Marvel Comics’ talent scout Rickey Purdin will be performing portfolio reviews at Los Angeles Comic Con. Read more here.

The 8th Annual National Cosplay Championship:

There’s no Comic Con without Cosplaying! That’s why every year, we give all our creative cosplayers a chance to compete for $30,000 in cash and other prizes by participating in one of three categories: Master, Journeyman, or Novice. All genres are welcome, including characters from film, television, theater, comics, video games, sci-fi, anime, horror, and original creations.

Kids’ Costume Contest:

Every year we host a special costume contest for all the junior cosplayers 12 and younger. All finalists will receive prizes and the top 5 will win a prize pack provided by a special guest!

Los Angeles Football Club:

L.A. Comic Con will once again feature the defending MLS Cup Champions for a meet and greet and autograph signings. On Saturday, December 2nd, fans can meet LAFC talent, see the MLS cup, and get an exclusive LAFC Comic Con Poster. On Sunday, December 3, LAFC will be hosting a skills clinic for kids, 12 and under from 1-3pm!

Autographs and Photo Ops:

Fans can pre-purchase autographs and photo opportunities with some of their most anticipated guests!

World Class Artists & Creators, Including:

  • Ryan Ottley, Invincible, The Amazing Spider-Man
  • Ryan Stegman, Marvel’s She-Hulk, Spider-Man, X-23 Absolute Carnage
  • Skottie Young, Spider-Man: Legend of the Spider Clan, Human Torch, and Venom
  • Jason Aaron, Thor, The Avengers, Ghost Rider, and Wolverine
  • Dan Slott, She-Hulk, The Superior Spider-man, Fantastic Four
  • Zeb Wells, Hellions, Amazing Spider-Man. Currently, She-Hulk, Marvel’s Zombies
  • Ariel Diaz, The Boys, Street Fighter, Vampirella
  • Josie Campbell, Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous, My Adventures with Superman 
  • Rose Besch, Amazing Spider-Man, Catwoman, Star Wars Adventures 
  • Nick Spencer, Morning Glories, Superior Foes of Spider-Man, The Fix
  • Jim Cheung, Scion, New Avengers: Illuminati, Young Avengers and Avengers: The Children’s Crusade
  • Patrick Owsley, The Flintstones, Yogi Bear, Scooby-Doo, Simpsons 
  • Michael Swanigan, The Mask, Defenders of Earth, Challenge of the GoBots
  • Scott Koblish, G.I. Joe, The Punisher, Thor, Hulk, Captain America,
  • Steven E. Gordon, X-Men: Evolution, Shrek 2, Eight Crazy Nights, The Swan Princess

Tickets for L.A. Comic Con’s 2023 event are currently available for purchase via this link. Stay tuned and stay in the know by visiting www.comicconla.com and following the event updates on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH The Story Thus Far Trailer

2023/11/17
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos

SQUARE ENIX today released the “Story So Far” recap video for FINAL FANTASY™ VII REBIRTH, which will be viewable from the game’s main menu when it debuts on Feb. 29, 2024, for the PlayStation®5 (PS5®) console. The refresher video is narrated by Red XIII, a beast with a flaming tail who offers words of wisdom to Cloud’s party from time to time. Red XIII recaps the events of FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, the first installment in the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY VII remake project.

The Story So Far video is available to watch here:

Additionally, the company released iconic artwork featuring Aerith and the Highwind airship. Other screenshots, available here, explore the peaceful town of Kalm, the abandoned Mythril Mine, the summon Kujata, the combat abilities and Synergy Skills of various party members, the Chocoboutique, side characters and much more.

Goat Simulator 3 Steam Wishlist Trailer

2023/11/17
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Be careful what you Wish(list) for, Pilgor is getting Steam-y… Coffee Stain Publishing and Coffee Stain North are delighted to announce that Goat Simulator 3 is coming to Steam in 2024! As of today, fans can Wishlist the game to stay up to date with all the caprine content headed their way.

Early next year, Steam users will finally be able to unleash chaos upon the sandbox island of San Angora. Up to four players can jump in together in online or local multiplayer to explore the island, rampage to their heart’s content, or even join a secret goat society.

As well as all the original content, Steam players will have access to every piece of post-launch content that’s arrived since the game’s original release. That includes new goats, gear, missions, secrets and more – and all future updates will be available on the platform too (and believe us, we’ve got plenty more incoming!)

PLAION Atari 2600+ Out Now

2023/11/17
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Tech News

PLAION, a global leading publisher and developer of video games, and Atari, one of the world’s most iconic consumer brands and interactive entertainment producers, are proud to announce that the Atari 2600+ – a modern day faithful recreation of the pioneering console that first appeared in 1980 – is available starting today for $129.99.

In addition to today’s launch, Atari has announced three new accessories supporting the console: the CX78+ Gamepad (supporting two-button 7800 games), a standalone CX30+ Paddle Pack, and an accessory extension cable. Additionally, coming early 2024 we will be bringing four additional 7800/2600 games to market. More details on retailer availability to come soon.

For retro enthusiasts eager to see if their collection of cartridges is compatible with the Atari 2600+, following thorough testing we are happy to confirm a 99% compatibility rate with just under 600 games tested. An updated compatibility list can be found here: https://atari.com/products/atari-2600-plus

The Atari 2600+ is launching with ten of the most recognized video games in Atari’s history, including Adventure® and Missile Command®. The Atari 2600+ has been created using modern technology to authentically replicate the original 4-switch Atari 2600 Video Game System. For those looking to relive the gameplay experiences of the ‘70s and ’80s, included with the Atari 2600+ is the CX40+ Joystick Controller, recreated with the same size and layout as the original 2600 Joystick Controller for that added touch of nostalgia.

Also available today are the CX-30 Paddle Controller with 4-in-1 Multi-game cartridge ($39.99 MSRP), a standalone CX-40 Joystick ($24.99 MSRP), and two individual games, Berzerk Enhanced Edition and Mr. Run and Jump, sold individually ($29.99 MSRP).

For the retro loving community, PLAION, in partnership with PosterSpy, have been revealing alternative retro posters designed by artists across the globe inspired by The Atari 2600+. Posters have been unveiled in the lead up to launch, with the final one being revealed today across PLAION social media channels. Follow info below.

Dredge The Pale Reach Out Now

2023/11/17
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 News, PlayStation 5 News, Windows PC News, Xbox One News, Xbox Series X News

Black Salt Games and Team17 Digital have today launched ‘The Pale Reach’, the first expansion to the multi-award-winning indie fishing adventure DREDGE, on Steam, GOG, Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®4, PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles for £5.99/$5.99 US/€5.99.

In DREDGE: The Pale Reach, players can explore a brand-new biome in the world of DREDGE which will require additional equipment, including the new and formidable ‘icebreaker’ attachment, to break through its frozen bergs. Players looking to uncover all the secrets of The Pale Reach will need to trawl its freezing depths and traverse its crystalline canyons while following in the footsteps of a doomed expedition lost to time. Avid oceanographers will also be able to cast a line or drop a pot to hunt 11 new fish and crab species and their aberrated counterparts while purchasing blocks of ice to help prolong the value of their most valuable catches.

From today, Steam players looking to add even more flair to their fishing in DREDGE can enable Razer Chroma™ RGB and help bring dynamic lighting to even the darkest expedition out on the open seas.

DREDGE’s second paid expansion, ‘The Iron Rig’, is set to arrive in early-2024.

Baldur’s Gate 3: Deluxe Edition Announced

2023/11/16
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 5 News, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

Today brings exciting news for fans of physical media! Celebrating a record seven awards at last week’s Golden Joysticks, along with eight nominations at The Game Awards later this year, Larian Studios is delighted to announce the physical Baldur’s Gate 3: Deluxe Edition for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, coming in Q1 2024 for $79.99.

On both PS5 and Xbox, the game will be playable on disc, with the PS5 version sporting two discs, and Xbox a whopping three discs to house the chonky epic. On PC, a DVD hosts a custom installer and arrives with a Steam key.

“This experiment is what we feel the future of physical media looks like, at least for us at Larian,” said Michael Douse, Director of Publishing at Larian. “We spent the last few months learning how to do it from scratch and put everything we learned from the Collector’s Edition into what we hope is unbeatable value for what we’re considering our standard physical version going forward. If it works out, we’ll keep doing it this way. We understand the value of physical media, and while there are clearly increasingly significant challenges when it comes to the archiving of games, we truly believe it’s worth experimenting, even if it means a fuck-ton of discs.”

Baldur’s Gate 3: Deluxe Edition will be sold exclusively by and restocked on Larian’s dedicated store. It is not a Collector’s Edition, so players needn’t panic if they lose out on the initial batch.

While each version of the Deluxe Edition is scheduled to ship in Q1 of 2024, Larian notes that the release date for the long-awaited Xbox digital version of Baldur’s Gate 3 will be revealed at The Game Awards on December 7.

Available to preorder now, the Deluxe Edition includes a Baldur’s Gate 3 game disc for your chosen platform, packaged within an oversized exclusive game box designed to sit alongside your classic Baldur’s Gate collection.

The Deluxe Edition also includes a wealth of goodies:

  • Original Soundtrack on 3 CDs
  • Cloth World Map
  • Two Fabric Patches
  • Thirty-two Stickers
  • Baldur’s Gate 3 Art Poster

You’ll also receive all existing Digital Deluxe content, which includes the following:

  • Divinity Item Pack
  • Bard Song Pack
  • Exclusive Dice Skin
  • Paintings from Rivellon
  • Adventurer’s Pouch
  • Digital OST
  • Digital Artbook
  • Digital Character Sheets

Baldur’s Gate 3 is out now on PC, Mac and PS5.

Universal Studios Hollywood Unveils Holiday Gifts and Food Offerings for 2023

2023/11/16
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News

Looking to share the gift of Universal Studios Hollywood with family and friends this holiday season, then a one-stop shopping spree at the entertainment destination for the perfect gift will help deliver ear-to-ear smiles.

To help take the guesswork out of what to buy, Universal Studios Hollywood has assembled a checklist of inspirational gifts available from its popular rides, attractions and immersive lands, including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™,” “Jurassic World—The Ride” and Illumination’s “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash,” along with a collection of theme park favorites.

For the ideal stocking stuffer, the Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Pass is the quintessential gift to bring cheer throughout the year, inclusive of discounts and exclusive perks.  Select the Platinum, Gold or Silver Annual Pass to create magical memories in 2024.

Here’s a checklist of top gifts to consider:

  • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – Share the holidays with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad and more with these favorites: six different collectible Power-Up Bands; a variety of character plush toys, apparel, hats and headbands; and even a Reversable Super Star and ? Block pillow.
  • “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” – Bring home a little magic with spellbinding gifts (select items can be personalized), including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Collector Edition Wand, adult and youth Christmas-themed sweatshirts, interactive snowy owl plush toys, crew neck fleece sweatshirts from each of the four Houses, commemorative holiday ornaments and décor celebrating the season, decorative pins, mugs, scarves, scented candles, themed frames, cozy sleepwear and Honeydukes’ one-of-a-kind sweets.
  • “Grinchmas™” – For the naughty on the list, whimsical favorites from Universal Pictures’ Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas include spirit jerseys, totes, Grinchy ornaments, green faux-fur keychains and adorned hats, gloves and scarves, colorful tumblers and pajamas.
  • “Jurassic World—The Ride” – Add a splash of Blue to the holiday season with such dinosaur favorites as a T. Rex Cutie Plush, assorted masks, bubble wand and canteen.
  • “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” – Illumination’s mischievous Minions bring seasonal smiles with these must-have favorites: Minion and “Fluffy” the unicorn plush toys, backpacks and Minion goggles.
  • “The Secret Life of Pet: Off the Leash” – Furry stars Max, Snowball, Duke, Gidget, Buddy, Daisy, Mel, Princess and Pickles from Illumination’s The Secret Life of Pets franchise bring holiday cheer with themed favorites, including plush toys, pajamas and “Adopt A Pup” collection.
  • “The Simpsons Ride™” and Springfield, USA – D’oh…here are few gift giving ideas from America’s favorite family: Pink donut pillow, character plush toys and apparel.
  • And finally, here are a few memorable gifts for the all-encompassing Universal Studios Hollywood theme park fan, including Universal retro sweaters, caps and totes, Universal 1912 backpacks, tumblers and keychains, wooden clapboard and Universal Globe figurine.
  • Throughout Universal Studios Hollywood’s festive holiday celebration, guests can purchase an array of culinary treats and comfort foods, created exclusively by the theme parks Executive Chef Julia Thrash. Here’s a sampling:
  • “Grinchmas” will serve up such Who-bilation favorites as Who-ville Spiral Croissant, Dumpit to Crumpit Treat, Who-bilicious Cinnamon Roll, 2 Sizes Too Small Cupcake, Heart Grew 3 Sizes Sugar Cookie and the Grinch™ Heart Lemonade.
  • Comfort foods and themed holiday fare available throughout the theme park: Crispy BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Slow Roasted Turkey Sandwich with Fries, Chili, Butternut Squash Soup and Clam Chowder in Bread Bowl, Turkey Quesadilla, Smoked Brisket Sandwich, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Chocolate Spiral Croissant, Pumpkin Spice Spiral Croissant, Sleigh Bells Irish Sour, Rudolph’s Red Rita, Hot Apple Toddy, Hot Espresso Martini, Make it Snappy Santa and Mrs. Claus’ Cinnamon Delight.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood, located just outside the theme park, is also stocked for ideal shopping and dining.

  • The Universal Studios Store offers a selection of items from popular attractions found within the theme park.
  • Universal UNIVRS provides limited-edition, character-inspired merchandise.
  • The SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ STORE on CityWalk features an array of themed items.
  • Production Central, themed to the Grinch™, provides a variety of holiday and theme park items.
  • The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen presents a new seasonal milkshake, Tis the Season, available both at the Foundry milkshake bar and in the dining room.
  • The ever-popular Voodoo Doughnut entices guests with delicious seasonal flavors to celebrate the holiday spirit.
  • Antojitos Cocina Mexicana serves up a variety of festive-themed drinks, including Mistletoe Mule, Chestnut Horchata and Apple Cider Margarita.
  • NBC Sports Grill & Brew spreads holiday cheer with a tasty Peppermint Martini.
  • Jimmy Buffett’s® Margaritaville® whips up a deliciously creamy and joyful drink with its Co-co-Colada.
  • VIVO Italian Kitchen offers an assortment of flavorful drinks with the Winter Martini, Apple Cheer Martini and Hot Apple Cider, which is available as a non-alcoholic or alcoholic beverage.

Guests must be 21 years or older+ and have a valid photo ID to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

From Friday, November 24 through Monday, January 1, 2024, Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood features “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” and the spectacular dazzling light projection transformation of HogwartsTM castle through “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” as well as “Grinchmas,” featuring a Who-lebration of fun fit for the Grinch, his faithful dog Max and a roster of Who-ville Whos. Holiday programs are included in the price of theme park admission.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter). Entry to Universal CityWalk is free. More information is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com.