Author - Jerry Paxton

Espire Ultimate Stealth Collection Bundle Announced

The award-winning virtual reality (VR) stealth action titles, Espire 1: VR Operative and Espire 2, from developer Digital Lode and publisher Tripwire Presents are now available in the Ultimate Stealth Collection Bundle. Players can now purchase these two must play VR games together at a 17% discount for $49.99 USD in the Meta Store. In addition, players who already own one of the critically-acclaimed VR stealth titles can complete their set by securing the other at a discounted rate. Whether playing stealthily or running in guns blazing, there’s never been a better time to test your mettle as an Espire agent. Find out why Meta Store players are awarding the stealth action sequel with 5-star reviews.

Digital Lode and Tripwire Presents continue to deliver significant advancements for the Espire 2 community as outlined in their 2023 public roadmap. Most recently, the team added public matchmaking, making it easier than ever for players to find fellow agents and experience everything the Espire 2 Co-op Campaign has to offer. Players can also look forward to the release of the Espire Ops update coming soon before the end of Q1 2023. Designed for skilled agents, the Espire Ops update introduces new single player levels with developer-set challenges.

Espire 2 Roadmap

Espire 2 Public Roadmap Highlights Include:

  •    Espire Ops: New single-player levels with weekly developer-set challenges
  •    Co-Op Missions: More Co-op missions are in the works. In addition, players can expect a new hardcore difficulty setting for singleplayer and Co-Op Campaigns
  •    New VR Platforms: Espire 2 is coming to new virtual reality platforms. We are in the early stages of development and will have more to announce in 2023
  •    Skins: In response to this top request from players, Digital Lode will also introduce unlockable frame skins & weapon variants

Out now for the Meta Quest 2 and Quest Pro platforms, Espire 2 combines the tactical precision of modern stealth titles with the unprecedented immersion of VR, further expanding upon the genre-defining experience of its critically acclaimed predecessor.

Razer Unveils DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition Mouse

Razer™, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced two additions to the popular DeathAdder line – the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition and the Razer DeathAdder V3.

Designed in collaboration with world renowned esports player and League of Legends icon Lee “Faker” Sang-Hyeok, the DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition showcases a unique personalized design for the Unkillable Demon King, while equipped with high-performance hardware. The cult-favorite esports mouse has always been Faker’s weapon of choice, with the DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition as a testament. Separately, the DeathAdder V3 presents a wired option updated with Razer’s latest mice technology, for the best advantage in competitive play.

Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition

“We believe in creating the ultimate gaming peripherals that help esports athletes achieve victory,” said Flo Gutierrez, Director of Global Esports at Razer. “The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition celebrates our long-standing friendship with Faker since 2016, giving him a version of his own favorite mouse that has accompanied his legacy as an esports legend.”

For The Unkillable Demon King

Armed with a DeathAdder mouse, Faker made history by winning three world championships in 2013, 2015, and 2016 – respectively – a feat shared by only one other player. Touting it as the only mouse for him, Faker has long championed Razer’s most popular esports mouse line. With the DeathAdder as his weapon of choice, Faker has dominated the competition, being the only player to achieve multiple feats including over 500 wins and 2,600 kills across all League of Legends Champions Korea competitions and over 100 wins across international competitions.

“This is a special moment for me. I’ve always dreamed of having my own mouse and now I can share it with my family, friends, and fans,” said Lee “Faker” Sang-Hyeok. “I love the design and the performance is unparalleled. Huge thanks to Razer for all their efforts and working with me on this amazing project.”

Completing all the hallmarks that have made it a well-loved mouse by fans worldwide, the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition features all the best-in-class technology offered by the brand. This includes the Razer™ Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor, Razer™ Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3, Razer™ HyperSpeed Wireless. Upgradable to true 4000 Hz polling rate with the Razer™ HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, and it continues to sport a 63g ultra-lightweight design while retaining its refined ergonomic form factor.

A New Favorite, For The Pro

The cult-favorite, Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro, is now available as a wired option. Introducing the DeathAdder V3, which is packed with Razer’s flagship technologies such as the Razer™ Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor, Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 and true 8000 Hz HyperPolling Technology. It provides gamers with unrivalled performance, speed, and reliability. While being ultra-lightweight at 59g, the Speedflex cable enables minimal drag and quick swipes to take out the competition. The all-new smooth touch texture is comfortable to use and does not compromise on grip for easy handling.

The DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition and the new Razer DeathAdder V3 collectively complete Razer’s latest iteration of their best-selling mice.

ABOUT THE RAZER DEATHADDER V3 PRO FAKER EDITION

  • Optimized with a 63g ultra-lightweight design for long hours of play (excluding cable)
  • Razer™ Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor
  • Wider surface compatibility – Sensor tracks on clear glass at least 4mm thick
  • Razer™ Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 rated up to 90 million clicks
  • Upgradable to 4000 Hz with the use of the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, sold separately
  • Five independently programmable buttons, and additional DPI button
  • Up to 90 hours of battery life
  • USB Type C charging and a Speedflex cable for fluid movements
  • Approximate size: 68 mm / 2.67 in (Width) x 44mm / 1.73 in (Height) x 128mm / 5.00 in (Length)

For more information on the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition, please visit here.

ABOUT THE RAZER DEATHADDER V3

  • Optimized with a 59g ultra-lightweight design for long hours of play (excluding cable)
  • Razer™ Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor
  • Wider surface compatibility – Sensor tracks on clear glass at least 4mm thick
  • Razer™ Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 rated up to 90 million clicks
  • Razer™ 8000 Hz HyperPolling Technology
  • Five independently programmable buttons
  • Speedflex cable for fluid movements
  • Approximate size: 68 mm / 2.67 in (Width) x 44 mm / 1.73 in (Height) x 128 mm / 5.00 in (Length)

For more information on the Razer DeathAdder V3, please visit here.

For more information on how Razer empowers you to #WinItYourWay, please see here.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro Faker Edition

$169.99 USD / 189.99€ MSRP

Razer.com, RazerStores & Authorized Resellers – February 21, 2023

Razer DeathAdder V3

$69.99 USD / 79.99€ MSRP

Razer.com, RazerStores & Authorized Resellers – February 21, 2023

Hogwarts Legacy Review – A Magical Triumph of Modern Gaming

Hogwarts Legacy is a new fantasy action adventure RPG from Avalanche Software and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. It puts you in the robes of a new student at the magical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – yes, the SAME school attended by Harry Potter and Co. Hogwarts Legacy is set in the late 1800’s as to not step on the toes of any of the Harry Potter books or cinematic universe properties. It features an original story where you are put front and center. In a world where Harry Potter games have been decidedly kid-targeted, Hogwarts Legacy is the first “real” Harry Potter video game designed just as much for adults as teens. Does Hogwarts Legacy take the Golden Snitch or does it get lost in the Forbidden Forest? Read on to find out!

Visually, Hogwarts Legacy is beautifully rendered and more than a handful of times I had to stop and setup some screen captures during my play through. From breath taking sunsets with Hogwarts looming in the foreground to some young witches and wizards flying magical kites from their wands. Once I unlocked the flying mechanic of the game, I spent a lot of time exploring the exterior of the castle and the Quidditch pitch. This game is a real looker – even the stylized character design works perfectly. When coupled with the top notch voice acting, I very rarely skipped ahead through dialog scenes. Performances are terrific and cast members include Simon Pegg, Luke Youngblood, and Amelia Gething just to name a few.

Truth be told, the open world design and gameplay mechanics of Hogwarts Legacy are not really anything new. The counter system (in this case, casting the Protego charm) is reminiscent of the Arkham games while the challenges and side quests located around the very large map are similar to most third person action RPGs these days. The brilliance of Hogwarts Legacy is how it flawlessly combines all of these game mechanics with J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World. Hogwarts Legacy keeps adding new elements and mechanics as you progress through the game’s chapters. I mentioned Quidditch before and it is worth stating that the sport of wizardkind is sadly missing from Hogwarts Legacy. The game explains the reason for its absence, but it is missed. Whether or not Warner Bros and Avalanche release it is a DLC remains to be seen.

The main storyline of Hogwarts Legacy fits right in with the Wizarding World and will take you on an epic journey. One minor gripe I had with the game is that you don’t get the option of bringing along a companion during your journeys unless it is scripted within a quest. The Harry Potter movies work so well because of the supporting friends that accompany Harry on his journey. It would have been nice to have another witch or wizard along with you during the day to day stuff and side quests. I played through Hogwarts Legacy in the course of a couple weeks, with doing side quests and enjoying the entire experience. I sorted into Gryffindor and would love to play the game a second time going full “dark wizard”. When I get the chance, I definitely will.

The game has a heavy focus on diversity and inclusion – going as far as not allowing you to choose male or female pronouns (or gender) during character creation. You do get to select “witch” or “wizard” in the process but, no matter what, characters will refer to you as “they”. More on character creation – it is excellent in terms of physical design of one’s virtual avatar. A multitude of skin tones, body types, hair styles, makeup designs, and facial scars can be applied (and even changed at the equivalent of a wizarding world barber shop later on). There is also an incredibly diverse cast of characters in the game and I couldn’t think of a particular race or sexual orientation that was not represented in some way. Whatever your feelings on J.K. Rowling’s statements on trans individuals, Avalanche Software is going above and beyond with its inclusivity.

Overall, Hogwarts Legacy is an amazing game experience that puts YOU in the role of a Hogwarts Student. It’s absolutely fantastic – now they just need to get Quidditch working!

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

Super Nintendo World Review – Step into the Mushroom Kingdom

The folks at Universal Studios Hollywood had us out for a special media day opportunity to experience Super Nintendo World before its official opening. Being shuttled down into the park’s Lower Lot area, we were so excited for all that awaited us. We are long-time gamers who are old enough to have played the original Super Mario Bros. game on the NES Nintendo Entertainment System. My personal favorite of the franchise was Super Mario Bros. 3 but I loved all of them. We walked off our shuttle, picked up a complimentary Power-Up Band (a big thanks to Universal for gifting us one) and headed into the most eye-popping theme park area I have seen in quite some time. But, does Super Nintendo World work? Is it fun? Will non-gamers appreciate it? Read on to find out!

Toadstools

What works?

Super Nintendo World features SO MUCH amazing stuff. First thing of note is the overall design and art direction of the entire area. It’s like they took a slice out of the Nintendo games themselves and brought it to life. Everything is so vibrant and lush. The mini-games scattered across Super Nintendo World are a lot of fun and the food offerings over at the Toadstool Cafe are super tasty. During our visit, I had the spaghetti and Princess Peach cupcake: Simply delicious! I usually frequent the Three Broomsticks when I visit Universal Studios Hollywood but I would have no reservations about eating at the Toadstool Cafe instead – that is, of course, if I could get into the land now that it is open to the public! I have a feeling it is going to be a very busy place.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is one of the most vibrant and rich dark rides I have ever experienced. The displays and projection effects used throughout are breathtaking as are the physical elements, props, and set design. During the ride, you’ll race through a variety of environments which will be familiar to gamers. You’ll even race along the rainbow bridge at the end of the ride. Of course, the gaming gimmick of Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is there in the form of an augmented reality visor. You will shoot shells at what your AR visor is pointing at and gain coins throughout. At the end of the race, you’ll be able to compare your scores and boast (or bow your head in shame, depending).

The 1Up Factory is the gift shop that Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge exits into and is full of delightful Super Nintendo World Merchandise. I had to pick up some pins and a shirt during my visit and I am sure you will be able to find some fun goody for all the people in your party. The little stuffed Mario and Luigi plushies were adorable as well, but I digress…

Princess Peach

The Power-Up Band was an interesting element of gamification that I didn’t expect to work as well as it did. Throughout Super Nintendo World, you will find all sorts of bricks to hit and places to swipe your Power-Up Band in front of to gain coins. These bands sync with the Universal Studios smartphone app and make for a fun additional element to Super Nintendo World. They cost $40 dollars and can be purchased at various locations around Universal Studios. The Power-Up Band straps on to your wrist in the style of a 1980’s “slap” bracelet. It’s not the most secure fit – in fact, in the boss battle with Bowser Jr. attraction, they ask you to remove them so they don’t go flying off and hit another player. A big bonus of the band is that they do not require any charging so you can toss them in a drawer and pull it out for your Universal Studios visits without worrying about battery levels.

What doesn’t work?

Unfortunately, the biggest disappointment in Super Nintendo World has to be the augmented reality visors of Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. The ride is SO beautiful, I just wish they moved more action to the projection effects and practical props. The big issue is that the AR visor field of view is very limited – so much so that things break into frame from short distances from your focal point. This happens so often that it becomes a distraction from all the amazing real life stuff going on around you sort of like a housefly or gnat suddenly flying into your field of view while you’re trying to appreciate a stunning vista. Half way through, I removed the AR visor and just looked through it occasionally to make sure I was getting what was happening. It’s not that the augmented reality gimmick of the attraction is a bad idea – quite the opposite, it’s just not a good idea right now. The AR technology needs a few more years to mature in order to allow wider fields of view. Having a wider field of view would allow the AR to be a lot more seamless and feel more natural.

Photo Gallery

Final Thoughts

Exiting Super Nintendo World through a big green pipe leads guests out into the Lower Lot across the circle from Jurassic World: The Ride. From there, we went back into the Upper Lot area and into Hogsmeade so my Sister could buy a new wand from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Then we left the park, reflecting on all the fun that we had at this special look into Super Nintendo World. Whether or not you are a gamer and have (or have not) played any of the various video games, you’ll have such a fun time.

Super Nintendo World is an outstanding addition to the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park property. Now, if only they could make some room to bring in Diagon Alley from Universal Studios Orlando! Super Nintendo World is open now at Universal Studios Hollywood, check out the official website for ticket information, season pass information, and park hours.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

Layers of Fear Gets Spooky New Release Date Trailer

As seen during the latest edition of IGN Fanfest, Bloober Team and Anshar Studios are excited to kick off 2023 by sharing an updated look at Layers of Fear and its upcoming release schedule. Get ready to experience a meticulously refined horror journey with what Bloober considers to be the ultimate Layers of Fear experience. Prepare to make peace with the unknown as you delve into the twisted and eerie stories of three obsession-driven artists in this first-person psychedelic horror game launching for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC in June 2023.

The series that defined narrative-focused first-person psychological horror is back to tell its last spine-chilling story with Layers of Fear (2023). The series’ crowning work is the definitive way to experience the critically acclaimed franchise as it features Layers of Fear and Layers of Fear 2, as well as all DLCs (including the new ‘The Final Note’ DLC that will give you a new perspective on the Layers of Fear storyline) and the never-before-told story of The Writer, which will tie everything together.

Layers of Fear (2023) was developed from the ground up using cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5 technology. The game will support Ray Tracing, HDR, 4K resolution, and makes use of the Lumen system to offer the most immersive and visceral horror experience in the market. Arek Reikowski, the two-time nominee in the Best Soundtrack category of the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, and winner of the Digital Dragons Best Soundtrack award for The Medium, has composed a hypnotic score that adds an extra layer of tension to the game. His hauntingly beautiful compositions—paired with the enhanced visual fidelity made possible by Unreal—will leave players sitting on the edge of their seats with chills shooting down their spines.

Key Features:

  • The Ultimate Layers of Fear Experience – The series’s crowning work casts an overarching narrative over the entire franchise.
  • Horror Reimagined – Everything in the Layers of Fear series melds together into a single experience, including all DLCs, so players can find all the answers they seek.
  • Shocking New Looks – Enhanced with Unreal Engine 5’s improved technology. This version offers a more immersive horror experience with the addition of Ray Tracing, HDR, 4K resolution, and the Lumen system.
  • Psychological Horror – A grim but gripping first-person psychedelic horror game focused on tense exploration, puzzle-solving, and immersive storytelling. Discover what lies in the depths of the human psyche with this mature, cathartic game.
  • New tricks – New brand-new core mechanics that will be introduced to Layers of Fear and its sequel, as well as additional features, so all the chapters and stories will blend seamlessly
  • Horror Through the Many Lenses of Art – Explore the depths of obsession with three different stories of craft-obsessed protagonists (The Painter, The Actor and The Writer) which are interwoven to create a truly immersive experience and gripping storyline
  • Classical, Ominous Soundtrack – Hauntingly beautiful soundtrack composed by the highly-acclaimed musician Arek Reikowski. He has composed a hypnotic score that adds an extra layer of tension to the game and will leave you on the edge of your seat

Layers of Fear is being published by Bloober Team and co-developed by Bloober Team and Anshar Studios and will be available in June 2023. To be up to date with the latest, wishlist the game over on Steam and follow Bloober Team on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Gamedec Definitive Edition Launch Trailer

Critically Acclaimed Gamedec Definitive Edition will be available to on the PlayStation Store, this Friday and to celebrate we have released a new trailer.

The Tech of the future is so advanced that the term “real” is relative and “life” and “death” have many meanings. Virtual worlds give rise to problems of the human nature: lust, sloth, envy, and pride. The residents of these virtual game-worlds need specialists – Gamedecs – Private Investigators with experience in those worlds who work to discover the secrets and explores mechanics hidden in those realities for the commission of your clients.

YOU ARE ONE OF THEM. YOU ARE A GAMEDEC

Gamedec is an authentic RPG experience where decisions are important and come with consequences. The world in which you live adapts to each decision you make. As the story progresses, your hero adapts as well. Just like in “real” life, the consequences of your choices can be immediate, long-term, or stay hidden, surfacing only when you least expect them. Whatever you decide, the game will remain neutral without judging your choices or suggesting “better” options. It is up to you to evaluate what you’ve done.

Gamedec is available to buy from the PlayStation Store this Friday for $34.99/ £29.99/€34.99. PS5 retail copies can be purchased in Europe from 10th March with USA Physical release to follow.

Gamedec is currently available to wishlist here

Way of the Hunter Aurora Shores DLC Release Date Trailer

Become a graduate of the Wildlife Trooper School on February 23rd! Protect the natural resources of Aurora Shores as you explore untouched nature and choose from a broad selection of hunting equipment to score the top trophies – Alaska and all its natural wonders await. Experience Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and the diverse wildlife in the upcoming expansion for Way of the Hunter: Aurora Shores!

The Aurora Shores DLC for Way of the Hunter is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S on February 23rd, 2023.

As a newly graduated Wildlife Trooper, your mission is to preserve the region’s natural resources. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness and encounter 14 different species, from Kodiak Bears to Roosevelt Elk and beyond. As a trooper, it’s up to you to manage the delicate ecosystem by controlling the population of certain species for the benefit of others. Discover the diverse beauty and open-world habitats of Aurora Shores, from verdant grasslands to soaring mountaintops and lush rainforests. Despite the harsh Alaskan winter, the region boasts breathtaking landscapes year-round. Explore the Nianuk Rise peaks and the sprawling Aivuk Rainforest, and be captivated by the idyllic charm of this unique wilderness.

Free DLC content available
With the Aurora Shores DLC comes a free content patch for the Way of the Hunter base game, which introduces a new weapon class: Crossbows! These are the perfect weapons to hunt silently without disturbing other animals in the vicinity.

Also completely free is the UTV DLC, which was released on January 19th, claim your free ride here:
Steam: https://thqn.net/woth-utv-steam
Xbox: https://thqn.net/woth-utv-xbox
PlayStation: https://thqn.net/woth-utv-psn

Razer Teams Up with EVISU for Peripherals and Apparel

Razer™, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced an all-new collaboration with the iconic, Japanese denim brand, EVISU. Founded in Osaka, Japan, in 1991, EVISU is known for its famous seagull logo and is one of the ultimate denim must haves, embraced by both collectors and hipsters alike.

The collection is one of Razer’s many forays into streetwear as a lifestyle brand with the aim of bringing more collaborative collections catering to gamers worldwide. The brands will be launching a limited Razer | EVISU capsule collection, featuring EVISU’s iconic apparels and Razer’s award-winning peripherals.

Razer EVISU Peripherals

“Razer has launched collaborations with fashion and lifestyle partners that are best in class to great success. This time, we’re extremely excited to work with the team at EVISU that is known for their commitment to quality and craftsmanship for our next capsule collection,” said Addie Tan, Associate Director of Business Development at Razer. “With our knowledge on gaming lifestyle and EVISU’s expertise on denim and streetwear fashion, Razer and EVISU have reimagined what it means to be a gamer.”

Razer | EVISU Apparels

Designed with the gamer in mind, the Razer | EVISU Apparel collection is a three-part capsule emblazoned with EVISU’s iconic motifs with a gaming twist.

Razer EVISU Apparel

No EVISU collection is complete without the brand’s quintessential dark washed jeans. The carrot-fit Razer | EVISU jeans are made from a weighty stretch denim and decorated with EVISU’s Daicock insert at the back with a Kamon on one end and Razer’s triple-headed snake logo on the other in Razer’s acid green.

An essential staple for gamers, the Razer | EVISU black hoodie is designed with a trendy relaxed fit and features EVISU’s distinguished Godhead, the Japanese god of prosperity adorned with the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro X wireless gaming headset in the front, as well as EVISU’s signature mantra “Before Anyone Did Anything EVISU Did Everything” at the back as a bold statement piece for any wardrobe.

The Razer | EVISU collection will also include a fitted tee in black with EVISU’s iconic seagull logo on the front and the collaborative Daicock motif on the back, unique to this collection.

Razer | EVISU Gaming Peripherals

Topping off the collaboration, fans of Razer and EVISU can look forward to a collection of fan favorite gaming peripherals that has been collaboratively designed by both brands, featuring the Razer Orochi V2 ultra-lightweight wireless mouse, Razer Gigantus V2 – Large mouse mat and the Razer BlackWidow V3 mechanical keyboard.

Razer EVISU Peripherals

Inspired by EVISU’s denim legacy, each peripheral will be embossed with Razer’s take on EVISU’s signature mantra and will mimic the denim effect for the boldest gaming set-up to solidify the partnership.

In celebration of this collaboration, Razer will also be launching a special edition of the Razer Iskur X. Featuring EVISU’s iconic signature mantra, the ergonomic chair was designed for posture perfect gaming.

Channeling the ultimate “it” factor across this series of trailblazing apparels and gaming peripherals, the Razer | EVISU collection is available exclusively at Razer.com, EVISU official page and in stores worldwide. Sales for the collection will start from February 24th, 2023, 6pm PT (February 25th, 3am CET / 10am SGT) while stocks last.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

  • Razer | EVISU Daicock Print T-Shirt – $129 USD / 160€ MSRP
  • Razer | EVISU Godhead Hoodie – $295 USD / 360€ MSRP
  • Razer | EVISU Daicock Print with Embroidery Carrot-Fit Jeans #2017 – $449 USD / 550€ MSRP
  • Razer | EVISU Orochi V2 – $99 USD / 120€ MSRP
  • Razer | EVISU Gigantus V2 Large – $49 USD / 60€ MSRP
  • Razer | EVISU BlackWidow V3 – $199 USD / 240€ MSRP
  • Razer | EVISU Iskur X – $999 USD / 1,210€ MSRP
  • Razer.com – 24 February 2023, 6pm PST

For more information, please visit LINK.

For more information on how Razer empowers you to #WinItYourWay, please see here.

DJI RS 3 Mini Stabilizer Review

DJI’s Ronin Stabilizer (RS) line of camera stabilizers is widely-known as some of the best in the industry for consumer and prosumer use. Their newest RS stabilizer, the DJI RS 3 Mini, brings the powerful stabilization of its siblings into a much more handheld and portable package. In fact, the DJI RS 3 Mini weighs a “whopping” 1.8 lbs! That is in contrast to the DJI RS 3 which weighs 2.2 lbs but is larger to hold. The DJI RS 3 Mini can carry a payload of up to 4.4 lbs which should be enough for most APS-C, mirrorless, and micro four-thirds cameras. Of course, your mileage may vary as you can add a lot to most cameras these days. Thankfully, the DJI RS 3 Mini has a a NATO mount on its side for any additional accessories you want to mount. Personally, I put an adjustable grip with cold shoe mounts on it for additional flexibility. The DJI RS 3 Mini feels like a professional level stabilizer as its build quality is top notch.

The first step when setting up a gimbal is to balance the camera you plan to use on the stabilizers axis of movement. This part of stabilizer ownership has always been difficult for me, as I seem to unbalance one axis when balancing another – it’s frustrating. DJI has provided a very handy YouTube video on this topic though – its about 10 minutes long and is extremely informative. I followed along while balancing my Canon M6 Mark II and, before I knew it, the camera was balanced. With my Canon M6 Mark II, I had to use one of the included cables to connect it to the DJI RS 3 Mini. However, it should be known that the DJI RS 3 Mini is able to wirelessly connect to compatible cameras via Bluetooth. Via the cable, however, I was able to control the shutter, aperture, as well as starting and stopping recording. Controlling the DJI RS 3 Mini is simple thanks to its 1.4 inch color screen where you can easily see which stabilizer mode you’re currently in. Speaking of modes, the DJI RS 3 Mini features the usual suspects: The default Pan Follow (PF) to a Pan Tilt Follow (PTF) or First Person View (FPV). The control wheel in the front of the DJI RS 3 Mini can be used to focus the camera and the stabilizer’s trigger can reset the view, spin the camera around into a selfie mode, and also lock the target of the gimbal to stay looking at it as you move around.  You can also control the stabilizer via the DJI Ronin app on your iOS device which is awesome if you are a one-person crew and need to operate the camera remotely.

The DJI RS 3 Mini

One feature of the DJI RS 3 Mini which is being touted a lot is its ability to function with the camera in vertical orientation. While this is nothing new, it is implemented in a very simple way with the RS 3 Mini. Simply remove the horizontal arm of the stabilizer and attach the camera mount in the vertical position. You still have to re-balance if transforming from horizontal shooting mode but that’s not too bad once you get the hang of it.

Overall, the DJI RS 3 Mini is an excellent camera stabilizer for those needing to carry a mirrorless camera in a portable way. It’s a step up from the Osmo smartphone stabilizer line and a great way to implement video stabilization for your content creation needs. The one caveat I would add is that you need to take your time and follow along with the DJI tutorial videos in setting up and using the DJI RS 3 Mini.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

Diablo IV In-Game Cinematic and Early Access Dates Revealed

Today at IGN Fan Fest, Blizzard revealed the first look at the opening in-game cinematic of Diablo IV alongside our upcoming Early Access and Open Beta Weekend dates.

Beginning in March, players will be able to experience Diablo IV during the two Beta weekends available on Windows® PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation®5, and PlayStation®4. For those that pre-ordered Diablo IV, Early Access to the Open Beta will be from March 17 – March 19 and code redemption is live now. On the following weekend, the Open Beta Weekend will be available to everyone from March 24 – March 26.

For the Open Beta weekends, players will be able to experience a deep look into the early game including the Prologue and the entirety of Act 1 with a level cap of 25. We will be sharing much more information about the specifics of the Open Beta in the coming weeks. Check out the Diablo blog for continued updates and be sure to tune into our next developer livestream on February 28 where we’ll be covering Open Beta details and more!