Author - Jerry Paxton

JBL Unveils New Gaming Audio Products at CES 2022

New competitors can take the stage as JBL expands its award-winning gaming product portfolio with several new JBL Quantum devices. Today, JBL launches its first USB microphone, the JBL Quantum Stream. As its name suggests, the dual-condenser microphone is perfect for coordinating with teammates, bringing crystal-clear communication to the center of the action as a standalone solution. Plus, the reversible stand provides 360-degree movement, with additional options included for a variety of other mounting options. The JBL Quantum Stream is joined by the brand’s first true wireless gaming headset, the JBL Quantum TWS, as well as three new over-ear headsets: the JBL Quantum 910, JBL Quantum 810 and JBL Quantum 610.

Be heard loud and clear with the JBL Quantum Stream, thanks to the 2 x 14mm dual-capsule Electret condenser with 24bit and 96kHz sampling rate. Two selectable voice pickup patterns allow users to focus the microphone’s capture on just the speaker’s voice or capture everyone’s voice in the room if recording a podcast or on a group call. Opting for a covert mission? Tap the top button to mute, which will activate an RGB indicator light for ease of use when in the middle of a battle – or conference call. The setup couldn’t be easier, with the JBL Quantum Stream’s universal mounting solution and seamless voice monitoring control. Users can simply mount the stand to fit their gaming setup and control their voice volume directly on the microphone. 

For gamers who prefer an in-ear, wire-free experience, the JBL Quantum TWS is here to deliver. Complete with the incredibly realistic JBL QuantumSURROUND™, listeners can experience the best spatial surround sound solution in the game, coupled with True Adaptive Noise Cancelling and Ambient Aware features to control outside noises and minimize distractions. The included USB-C dongle brings a low latency connection to players on a PC, Mac, PlayStation®, Nintendo Switch and supported mobile devices. The JBL Quantum TWS also supports two connections at the same time so players can connect to their preferred gaming device via USB-C dongle, plus a Bluetooth connection on a mobile device so they never miss a call. The lightweight design makes the JBL Quantum TWS ideal for long gaming sessions, and the IPX5 sweat resistance rating ensures durability when using on the go. 

JBL has also introduced a new, top-of-the-line over-ear wireless gaming headset with the brand’s proprietary head-tracking technology, the JBL QuantumSPHERE 360™, for the first time in a wireless form factor. The JBL Quantum 910 gives players next-gen audio accuracy to improve their natural instincts in-game. Hi-res certified 50mm drivers powered by the JBL QuantumSOUND™ Signature maximize the tiniest details to give an audio edge in battle. Active Noise Cancelling allows players to tune out distractions and stay fully immersed in the game, while the dual wireless solutions – lossless 2.4G wireless and Bluetooth 5.2 – provide gaming-grade connectivity with a 24-hour battery life. Play endlessly with the JBL Quantum 910’s Play & Charge feature with the included USB charging cable.  

“JBL continues to create smart solutions for gamers of all levels,” said Ralph Santana, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at HARMAN. “As the first standalone microphone and true wireless headset in the JBL Quantum lineup, the JBL Quantum Stream and JBL Quantum TWS were created to meet the needs of gamers, streamers and podcasters, alongside our robust – and growing – range of over-ear gaming headsets. With the addition of the JBL Quantum 910, players can enjoy our exclusive head-tracking technology, now in a new wireless form factor, for the ultimate competitive advantage.”

Also joining the JBL Quantum range in 2022 are the JBL Quantum 810 and JBL Quantum 610*, a honoree recipient for the prestigious CES® 2022 Innovation Awards*. Similar to the JBL Quantum 910, these models feature JBL QuantumSURROUND™ and DTS Headphone:X 2.0 for the ultimate audio immersion, along with a voice-focus flip-up microphone and a durable, lightweight construction for optimal comfort during long gaming sessions. All JBL Quantum headsets and the JBL Quantum Stream microphone are compatible with the JBL QuantumENGINE™ PC software for full customization of audio and RGB lighting effects (select models only). The JBL Quantum TWS is also compatible with the JBL Headphones app for customization while on the go. 

All new additions to the JBL Quantum lineup will be available starting Spring 2022 on JBL.com and from select retailers.

Features of the JBL Quantum Stream:

  • 2 x 14mm Electret condenser with 24bit and 96kHz sampling rate
  • Universal mounting solution with reversible stand allows for 360 degrees of movement, and the three stand options ensure optimal mic positioning
  • Two selectable voice pick-up patterns to isolate one voice or include many
  • Tap to mute button with RGB ring indicator light
  • Voice monitoring directly through headphones and control voice volume and microphone gain directly on the mic
  • Durable, premium metal design, featuring an aluminum stand, metal ring and iron net for a premium look and finish
  • JBL QuantumENGINE™ PC software compatibility for the ultimate customization of EQ, RGB colors, mic mute/unmute and more
  • Price: $99.95

Features of the JBL Quantum TWS:

  • JBL QuantumSURROUND™ for the best spatial surround solution for immersive gaming
  • True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with four beamforming mics and auto calibration to stay in the zone
  • Ambient Aware to filter in environmental noise to the player’s preference
  • Six beamforming microphones (three on each earbud) ensure crystal-clear communication with teammates 
  • Two-device connectivity via USB-C dongle or Bluetooth 5.2 for gamer-grade low latency connection
  • 24-hours battery life – 8-hours with earbuds, 16 additional hours with charging case
  • Lightweight, durable construction with IPX5 water resistance
  • Multi AI support – simply push to talk with preferred smart assistants when connected to a mobile device
  • Compatible with the JBL QuantumENGINE™ PC software and JBL Headphones app for the ultimate audio customization
  • Price: $149.95

Features of the JBL Quantum 910:

  • JBL QuantumSPHERE 360™ with integrated head-tracking and DTS Headphone:X 2.0
  • Hi-res certified 50mm drivers powered by the JBL QuantumSOUND™ Signature
  • Active noise cancelling
  • Dual wireless solutions: lossless 2.4G wireless and Bluetooth 5.2
  • 24-hour battery life, with Play & Charge functionality for all-day gaming
  • Voice-focus beam microphone with echo and noise suppression
  • Game-chat audio dial to regulate voice and game volume, developed for the most popular chat application in the world, Discord
  • Lightweight, durable construction with leather-wrapped, memory foam ear-cushions
  • JBL QuantumENGINE™ PC software compatibility for the ultimate customization of EQ, RGB colors, mic mute/unmute and more
  • Price: $249.95

Features of the JBL Quantum 810:

  • Dual surround sound with JBL QuantumSURROUND™ and DTS Headphone:X 2.0
  • Hi-res certified 50mm drivers powered by the JBL QuantumSOUND™ Signature
  • Active noise cancelling
  • Dual wireless solutions: lossless 2.4G wireless and Bluetooth 5.2
  • 30-hour battery life, with Play & Charge functionality for all-day gaming
  • Voice-focus beam microphone with echo and noise suppression
  • Game-chat audio dial to regulate voice and game volume, developed for the most popular chat application in the world, Discord
  • Lightweight, durable construction with leather-wrapped, memory foam ear cushions
  • JBL QuantumENGINE™ PC software compatibility for the ultimate customization of EQ, RGB colors, mic mute/unmute and more
  • Price: $199.95

Features of the JBL Quantum 610:

  • Dual surround sound with JBL QuantumSURROUND™ and DTS Headphone:X 2.0
  • Lossless 2.4G wireless
  • 40-hour battery life, with Play & Charge functionality for all-day gaming
  • Earcup positioned game-chat audio dial to regulate voice and game volume, developed for the most popular chat application in the world, Discord (also compatible with other chat services like Skype and TeamSpeak)
  • Voice-focus flip-up boom microphone with auto on/off mute feature
  • JBL QuantumENGINE™ PC software compatibility for the ultimate customization of EQ, RGB colors, mic mute/unmute and more
  • Price: $149.95

*The CES Innovation Awards program, owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, is an annual competition honoring outstanding design and engineering in consumer technology products across 27 product categories.

Doctor Who Crosses Over Into EVE Online – The Interstellar Convergence

CCP Games and BBC Studios have joined forces for EVE Online x Doctor Who, an original crossover event between the beloved action-adventure series Doctor Who and the free-to-play deep space-faring MMO EVE Online. Universes will collide as Capsuleers and Whovians face the Daleks together in massive space battles in EVE Online x Doctor Who starting 13 January until 1 February.

EVE Online is a free-to-play, community-driven spaceship MMO game where players can choose their own path among the stars from countless options, developed by CCP Games in Reykjavik. The game first launched in 2003 and has since gained recognition for its scale, complexity, and the world record-breaking exploits of its online community. EVE Online is one of the most critically acclaimed MMORPG intellectual properties (IPs) in time and space, and one of the most extensive works of science fiction in the world.

“2022 will be off to an (inter)stellar start with EVE Online x Doctor Who,” said Bergur Finnbogason, EVE Online’s Creative Director. “We are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible in EVE Online. Collaborating with BBC Studios gives us the opportunity to pay homage to an iconic series that has inspired us at CCP. We hope you’ll join us in New Eden on January 13 to see what happens when galaxies collide!”

“EVE Online x Doctor Who not only brings two iconic universes together, but also the passionate Whovians with the just-as-passionate pilots of New Eden,” said Kevin Jorge, Senior Producer at BBC Studios, “By bringing the fanbases together, the already massive battles of EVE Online are sure to become even more explosive. Only time will tell if New Eden’s fiercest pilots have what it takes to challenge the might of the Daleks.”

EVE Online x Doctor Who introduces new, Gallifrey-themed space where players will search for artifacts from Doctor Who’s Great Time War. The artifacts will provide players with clues to track down the infamous Daleks and face them in an interstellar battle of the ages. Players who survive the fight will reap unique rewards that they can take back to New Eden. Additionally, a login campaign with skill points and Doctor Who-themed items will be available to all players throughout the duration of the event.

EVE Online x Doctor Who is the first major collaboration for the spaceship MMO, reaching a new milestone in CCP’s journey to expand New Eden’s horizons and welcome fresh players into its storied universe. EVE Online has seen incredible growth over the course of 18 years, reaching more than 24 million active users in 2021. CCP recently overhauled EVE’s new player experience, making it a perfect time for rookie pilots to start their journey in EVE Online.

More information for EVE Online x Doctor Who can be found here.

EVE Online can be downloaded for free by visiting www.eveonline.com. For all the latest information about the game, please visit EVE News.

BenQ Unveils New Line-Up of Gaming Displays and More at CES 2022

BenQ America Corp. will kick off the New Year by debuting its newest gaming technology and products at the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The new products span four different product lines, highlighting the latest in BenQ’s esports hardware, gaming monitors and projectors, as well as lighting technology.

During the event, BenQ will present two new gaming monitors, 32-inch EX3210U and 34-inch ultrawide EX3410R, as part of its MOBIUZ line of monitors which debuted last year. Built for those who crave both speed and image quality, the EX3210U 4K 144Hz HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor, with a sleek new white rear cover, is designed to deliver. With 98% P3 coverage for vivid color performance, BenQ’s exclusive HDRi image optimization technology and high-quality speakers, the EX3210U offers a fully immersive gaming experience.  BenQ is also announcing the EX3410R, a 1000R curved monitor that offers an incredible, expanded field of view and depth perception. The ultrawide WQHD monitor is lightning fast with 144HZ refresh rate, allowing gamers to be quick and reactive while competing.

Additionally, BenQ will introduce X3000i, the world’s first 4K LED gaming projector for 4K open-world games. Users can upgrade their virtual second life with stellar audio-visual quality, easy setup and unrivaled color accuracy. X3000i is the only gaming projector on the market offering exclusive intuitive settings for 4K HDR game audio-visual enhancement and low latency fast response for seamless gaming display. Attendees will also get a look at the TK700, the world’s first 4K FPS gaming projector that also supports 4K play at 60Hz with low input lag. Optimized for gaming, it is designed to deliver immersive experiences with winning performance.

For professional gamers, ZOWIE, BenQ’s esports brand, will spotlight the XL2546K, a high-quality PRO esports monitor that enables gamers to play at their fullest potential. Featuring a 240Hz refresh rate, DyAc+ Technology for reduced blur, Black eQualizer for color vibrance and increased visibility, gamers can expect a smooth and visually impressive gaming experience. Through ZOWIE’s XL setting to share capability, gamers can also save professional gamers’ settings for optimum performance. ZOWIE will also showcase its Mouse Fitting Kit, which gives gamers the ability to try out ten available mice to determine which best suits their grip, hand size and playstyle prior to purchasing.

In addition to the variety of gaming products, BenQ will showcase the recently launched ScreenBar Halo, an innovative lighting design that allows users to light up their space with an intelligent remote controller and gives the integrated experience of a monitor and reading light. The backlight design adds comfort to long hours of viewing. Attendees can also experience BenQ’s ScreenBar, which is a clip-on monitor light specifically built with the vertical design of an LED Strip that reduces eye strain and the risk of screen glare for users.

“Our goal is to provide the most immersive gaming experiences to consumers to allow them to compete at the highest level, while also having fun,” said Houston Wei, B2C Head – Senior Director. “We look forward to sharing the newest technology and products that we have developed for every type of gamer at every level.”

Samsung Unveils New Monitor Lineup in Time for CES 2022

Samsung Electronics today announced new models in its monitor lineup that exemplify its leadership within the sector. The versatile new lineup delivers beautiful picture quality and intuitive features that give consumers more choice when selecting a monitor that fits their exact needs.

The 2022 monitor portfolio brings out the best experiences while working, gaming or watching content at home. Samsung’s latest monitors include features for high-performance gaming as well as smart and pro-level elements, such as the Odyssey’s Quantum Mini LED backlight panel and HDR 2000; the Smart Monitor’s do-it-all screen with smart features; and the High Resolution Monitor’s comfortable ergonomics.

“Samsung’s 2022 lineup represents the next generation in monitor innovation with offerings that meet the demands of competitive gamers, professional designers and everyone in between,” said Hyesung Ha, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “As the work and entertainment worlds continue to evolve, we are proud to deliver monitors that boost users’ experiences from the comfort of their homes.”

Odyssey Neo G8

As the world’s first monitor to feature a 4K (3,840 x 2,160) 1000R curved screen with 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time (GtG), Odyssey Neo G8 32” (Model Name: G85NB) is set to open a new chapter in gaming monitor innovation, offering razor-sharp performance for even the most dedicated PC gamers. Its performance matches its stunning picture quality featuring Quantum Mini LEDs, Quantum HDR 2000 with a 2,000nit peak brightness and a million-to-one static contrast ratio, bringing out the most subtle details for increased world building and immersion.

The new Odyssey Neo G8 is built with a similar design language as the Odyssey Neo G9, offering a sleek white exterior that stands out even when it’s turned off. Beautiful colors leap off the screen into a user’s real environment with CoreSync lighting. The core lighting found on the backside of the monitor automatically detects colors on the screen and projects them in real life to create a deeper sense of immersion.

Smart Monitor M8

With an ultra-slim thickness of 11.4mm, which is about three-quarters thinner than the previous model, the 2022 Smart Monitor M8 32” (Model Name: M80B) provides space efficiency. Especially for those who value style, it features a sophisticated flat-back design with enhanced usability and comes in a new warm white color that fits perfectly everywhere. The brilliant UHD panel provides 99% sRGB color gamut while supporting 1.07 billion colors at 400nit brightness, showing every video, document or photo with true-to-life accuracy.

Smart TV and productivity apps are built directly into the monitor, enabling seamless entertainment and work while serving as a SmartThings control hub, even without the need of a PC. The 2022 Smart Monitor M8 32” is a great option for remote working. It comes with a movable magnetic SlimFit Cam that enables crystal-clear video calls when working from home. Its built-in Video Call application supports the most popular calling apps, including Google Duo. With a USB Type-C port enabling 65W charging connections, the Smart Monitor M8 provides a streamlined all-in-one workstation experience that doesn’t require an additional docking station.

High Resolution Monitor S8

The Samsung High Resolution Monitor S8 (Model Name: S80PB), available in 27” and 32” models, delivers professional-level UHD performance for creators and designers who need the highest levels of accuracy and range when working in the office or at home. Delivering up to 98% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, the S80PB provides an ultra-wide range of rich and nuanced colors. With Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) Display HDR™ 600,1 this high-resolution monitor provides an immersive viewing experience, bringing content to life as it was intended. As the world’s first UL (Underwriter Laboratories) verified Glare Free monitor, Matte Display is applied on the top of the panel, reducing light reflection even when not using a monitor hood, to provide a distraction-free working environment.

Both models feature USB Type-C 90W charging and LAN ports to help users create a simplified workstation that can charge laptops and mobile devices with no additional docking station required.

Built with the VESA mount compatibility standards, as well as a Height Adjustable Stand (HAS) featuring tilt, swivel and pivot control points, users can mount their monitor to suit any environment.

For more information, please visit https://displaysolutions.samsung.com/main/index.

Snowpiercer Season 3 Official Trailer

TNT has released the official trailer for season three of “Snowpiercer” premiering on Monday, January 24 at 9 pm ET/PT.

At the end of “Snowpiercer” season two, Layton (Daveed Diggs) and Ruth (Alison Wright), who were banished to Big Alice’s compost car, plotted to take back Snowpiercer. With the help of Javier (Roberto Urbina) and Alexandra (Rowan Blanchard), Layton and Ruth made it back to Snowpiercer and rallied with their supporters. Josie (Katie McGuiness) destroyed the Aquarium car, separating Snowpiercer’s head from the remaining 1,023 cars. Season three picks up with Layton (Diggs) and his inner circle commanding a small 10 car “pirate train” in search of Melanie (Jennifer Connelly) and a possible warm location to restart civilization; while back on Snowpiercer, Mr. Wilford (Sean Bean) is consolidating power, awaiting Layton’s return. “Snowpiercer” season three stars Oscar® winner Jennifer Connelly, Grammy® and Tony® Award winner Daveed Diggs, Sean Bean, Rowan Blanchard, Emmy® nominee Alison Wright, Mickey Sumner, Iddo Goldberg, Katie McGuinness, Tony Award winner and Grammy nominee Lena Hall, Emmy® nominee Archie Panjabi, Annalise Basso, Sam Otto, Roberto Urbina, Sheila Vand, Mike O’Malley, Chelsea Harris and Steven Ogg.

“Snowpiercer” is executive produced by Graeme Manson, Aubrey Nealon, Christoph Schrewe, Marty Adelstein and Becky Clements, Matthew O’Connor, Ben Rosenblatt and Scott Derrickson, and the original film’s producers, including Bong Joon Ho, Miky Lee, Jinnie Choi, Park Chan-wook, Lee Tae-hun and Dooho Choi. The show is produced by Tomorrow Studios, along with CJ Entertainment. ITV Studios handles international distribution.

ARROW Unveils January Lineup of Classic and Modern Films

Arrow Video is excited to announce the January 2022 lineup of their new subscription-based ARROW platform, available to subscribers in the US, Canada, the UK and Ireland.

The January 2022 lineup leads with the ARROW release of Stefan Lernous’ hilarious and toe-curling debut feature Hotel Poseidon, available to subscribers in the US, Canada, the UK, and Ireland. Hotel Poseidon made its world premiere at Brussels International Festival of Fantastic Film and screened at Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal and Grimmfest in the UK. The film will debut on ARROW January 3 with a host of exclusive extras.

January 3 will see the arrival of Hotel Poseidon (UK/US/CA/IRE) and Mario Bava’s final feature Shock (UK/US/CA/IRE), where a woman is haunted by a series of nightmares and hallucinations..

January 3 kicks off ARROW’s Seasons for 2022 with New Year Body Transformation. This New Year, how about a new you? Well, on ARROW that doesn’t mean some dodgy weight-loss fad – but sprouting teeth and claws to become the creature of the night you always dreamed of being, getting a rad new tattoo for some confidence-boosting and to aid you in living your best life or even trying a boxing class to let off some steam for a bit of self-care. Titles include: Irezumi, Tokyo Fist, and Wolf Guy.

Also launching on January 3 is RIP Advisor, centered on the trips you don’t come back from. A selection of ARROW films featuring put-you-ups that you may not survive staying in long enough to leave a one-star review of. If the creepy, damp and decrepit Hotel Poseidon gave you a taste for edgy lodgings, give one of these hotels, motels, boarding houses or new digs a try – you’ll check in, but you might not check out. Titles include: Hotel Poseidon, The Possessed, Basket Case, and Inferno.

ARROW heads into 2022 with a look back at 2021 with a curated Best of 2021. We have had an incredible year for new releases on ARROW this 2021 and this selection brings together the absolute cream – the titles that have made the service the special place it is this year – so make sure you haven’t missed out on a single one of them. Every last film in here is an absolute belter that will see your 2021 off in style and set you and us up for an even better 2022. Titles will be revealed in January!

January 7 sees the arrival of Deadly Games (UK/US/CA/IRE) a tale of madness, murder and adultery from writer/director Scott Mansfield. A masked maniac with a penchant for a horror-themed board game is playing his own twisted game with the women of a small American town. Each time the dice is rolled, another victim meets a grisly end.

January 10 hosts the launch of a pair of deadly delights from Spanish director Álex de la Iglesia. Perdita Durango (UK/US/CA/IRE), starring Oscar nominee Rosie Perez and Academy Award winner Javier Bardem. The Day of the Beast (UK/US/CA/IRE) follows a rogue priest discovers the exact date The Antichrist will be born and enlist a Death Metal record store clerk and a cheesy TV psychic to prevent the Apocalypse by summoning Satan himself.

January 13 debuts documentary retrospective Still Tickin’: The Return of A Clockwork Orange (UK/US/CA/IRE) to mark the 50th Anniversary of Kubrick’s classic.

January 14 bows Red Angel (UK/US/CA/IRE), Yasuzo Masumura’s unflinching look at the horror and futility of war through the eyes of a dedicated and selfless young military nurse. Bloodbath at the House of Death (UK/US/CA/IRE) follows a group of scientists investigate a mysterious massacre and Cradle of Fear (UK/US/CA/IRE) amps up the tension when a respectable lawyer and his partner discover they are not alone.

January 17 caps off the month with a trio of stunning examples of Asian Cinema. Casting Blossoms to the Sky (UK/US/CA/IRE): Endo Reiko visits the city of Nagaoka and listens to a motley cast’s stories. She learns about the fireworks in the city and its history, how war ravaged and changed the city and the narrator’s lives. Seven Weeks (UK/US/CA/IRE): A former hospital director runs an antiques shop in Ashibetsu with her family. Hanagtami (UK/US/CA/IRE): Fulfilling his filmmaking dream of 40 years, Nobuhiko Obayashi’s luminous new feature delivers a timeless story of the pureness of youth beset by the chaos of war.

David reluctantly pretends to be the manager of Hotel Poseidon, where fungus covers the walls and comments such as “faded glory” and “has seen better times” completely fall short to describe this establishment. He wanders the corridors of his personal Overlook Hotel like a zombie, being a passive spectator to what happens around him. Whether it’s clients without cash, his mother castrating him with her sharp tongue or the recently deceased aunt in the hallway whose pension kept the place going. David will gradually lose his balance and tumble into a waking nightmare, in which his hotel is transformed into an existential purgatory. With inner demons on the booze, lustful creatures tempting his lonely soul to sin and a big plunge into the proverbial metaphysical shithole, David can expect some strong comments on Trip Advisor.

Stanley Kubrick’s masterful classic A Clockwork Orange and its controversy through the years are discussed by contemporary film directors (like Sam Mendes, Mary Harron & Tony Kaye), critics and lead actor Malcolm McDowell, in this fascinating documentary about one of the greatest films ever made and also one of those most debated and controversial works of cinema of all time.

ARROW is available in the US, Canada, the UK and Ireland on the following Apps/devices: Roku (all Roku sticks, boxes, devices, etc), Apple TV & iOS devices, Android TV and mobile devices, Fire TV (all Amazon Fire TV Sticks, boxes, etc), and on all web browsers at https://www.arrow-player.com.

ARROW Essentials curates collections based on genre, decades and themes; and ARROW Stories takes a fresh look at the world of film and TV with exclusive documentaries, interviews and video essays diving deeper into the many curated seasons and titles on the platform for a richer and deeper viewing experience.

With a slickly designed and user-friendly interface, and an unparalleled roster of quality content from westerns to giallo to Asian cinema, trailers, Midnight Movies, filmmaker picks and much, much more, ARROW is the place to go for the very best in on-demand entertainment.

Thermaltake Expo January Virtual Exhibition Starts Tomorrow

Thermaltake, the leading premium brand of PC DIY components for Cooling, Gaming Gear and Enthusiast Memory solutions, is beginning the new year with the 2022 Thermaltake Expo January Virtual Exhibition, live tomorrow on January 4th at 2:30 PM. From January 4th to the 7th, viewers can tune into our live stream broadcasts on the Thermaltake Facebook Page, Thermaltake Global YouTube Channel, and Event Microsite. Thermaltake has prepared a phenomenal virtual show, featuring new innovations, brilliant product designs, and cutting-edge new software. The first three days will be broadcasted in English, and the last day will feature a Chinese livestream. Viewers are welcome to join in till the end to get the complete TT expo experience!

Your MOD, Your WAY

This year Thermaltake expands from its marketing vision “Your MOD, Your Way”. Thermaltake is offering even bolder colors and even more innovative customization options to help you design “Your MOD, Your Way”. Gamers, modders, and PC DIY enthusiasts can have fun mixing & matching their builds with a variety of new color options.

Featured Programs and Giveaways

Opening the event is the CEO Keynote presented by the Thermaltake Founder & CEO Kenny Lin. Followed by other sessions like Product Discussions, Product Tutorials, and New Product Launches. We also have a new segment where we provide home décor ideas with Thermaltake’s array of colorful products. And as usual, Thermaltake will hold live Q&A sessions and will give back to our fans by holding awesome prize giveaways. To learn more, stay posted on the Thermaltake social media handles.

Being Boba Fett Trailer Featuring Filoni Rodriguez and Morrison

Join filmmakers Dave Filoni and Robert Rodriguez, and star Temuera Morrison, as they take a look at the Boba Fett character and what Morrison brings to the role of the mysterious bounty hunter in the new featurette, “Being Boba Fett.” Boba Fett’s return is the subject of the original series from Lucasfilm, “The Book of Boba Fett,” streaming exclusively on Disney+ starting today.

“The Book of Boba Fett,” a thrilling Star Wars adventure teased in a surprise end-credit sequence following the Season 2 finale of “The Mandalorian,” finds legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett and mercenary Fennec Shand navigating the galaxy’s underworld when they return to the sands of Tatooine to stake their claim on the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate.

“The Book of Boba Fett” stars Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen. Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Robert Rodriguez, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson are the executive producers. Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck serve as co-executive producers, with John Bartnicki producing and John Hampian as co-producer.

Social Media

Twitter: @StarWars, @DisneyPlus, @BobaFett

Facebook: @StarWars, @DisneyPlus
Instagram: @StarWars, @DisneyPlus, @TheBookOfBobaFett

Daybreak Games and WotC to Partner On Magic: The Gathering Online

Daybreak Games, a leading global publisher and developer of multiplayer online games, today announced it entered into a long-term license agreement with Wizards of the Coast to develop, provide live service and publish Magic: The Gathering Online, the online version of the fabled tabletop game Magic: The Gathering (Magic).

“We are very excited to partner with Wizards of the Coast on yet another venture and add Magic: The Gathering Online among our portfolio of iconic online multiplayer games,” said Ji Ham, CEO of Daybreak Games. “We are looking forward to not only continuing the live service, but also to further invest and improve upon Magic: The Gathering Online experience as the most authentic representation of the iconic tabletop game online for years to come.”

“Magic: The Gathering Online was our first venture into the digital game world,” said Chris Cocks, President of Wizards of the Coast. “We are confident Daybreak Games will continue to build on what we started, spreading Magic online and bringing fans and players across the globe closer together.”

Released in June 2002, Magic: The Gathering Online is a video game adaptation of the global phenomenon Magic: The Gathering, a tabletop and digital collectible card game enjoyed by millions of players worldwide and owned by Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, Inc.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

ESL Gaming Announces Women’s CS:GO Circuit

ESL Gaming, the world’s leading esports company, together with Intel® and DHL, today announced the women’s CS:GO circuit. As part of ESL Gaming’s long-term ambition to create a world where everybody can be somebody, this all-new competitive ecosystem around Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), one of the most popular esports titles worldwide, aims to increase awareness, provide new opportunities, and improve the representation for all women CS:GO players.

The initiative is the first step of many in ESL Gaming’s new #GGFORALL program, following the belief that “it’s not GG (Good Game), until it’s GG for all,” and focusing on pushing the boundaries to ultimately make gaming and esports an inclusive, respectful and all-empowering space. This program will include several Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to decrease the company’s environmental impact, to aid in establishing an inclusive gaming community free of discrimination, verbal abuse, and bullying, and much more.

Supported by Intel® and DHL, the CS:GO ecosystem for women offers $500,000 across regional leagues, standalone events at DreamHack festivals, and ESL Cash Cups:

  • The new leagues feature eight teams in both Europe and North America and a total of $150,000 prize pool. The three best teams from both regions, together with a South American and an Asian-Pacific team coming from open qualifiers, participate in the Global League Finals at DreamHack Dallas (June 3-5, 2022) and DreamHack Winter (November 25-27, 2022).
  • Furthermore, during DreamHack festivals, there will be standalone events which will, per event, see eight teams from all four regions battle over a $100,000 prize pool, equal to ESL Challenger events that are part of ESL Pro Tour. The first event will take place at DreamHack Valencia on July 1-3, 2022.
  • Finally, starting in January 2022, ESL Cash Cups for women’s teams will be added to ESEA, giving teams featuring a full women’s roster the opportunity to compete twice a month for their share of a total of $4,000 prize pool (split evenly between the Asian-Pacific, European, North American and South American regions).

On top of that, ESL Gaming has committed to instituting a women players council that will aid in defining further details around the CS:GO ecosystem for women and that provides women a platform for consolidated feedback towards ESL Gaming and other Tournament Organizers. Moreover, ESL Gaming continues to work towards increasing the representation of women as broadcasting talents as well as within the company. To amplify that, it will introduce a talent development program that provides select aspiring broadcast talents the necessary tactics and tools to become successful and offers opportunities to cast competitions within ESL Gaming’s CS:GO ecosystem. Likewise, the company is opening up additional job opportunities within the company to enhance the new product further.

“By providing an infrastructure equal to their male counterparts, we are thrilled to create more visibility and opportunities for women in the esports space, as well as to support them in their professional development and to help make their dreams come true,” said Roberta Hernandez, SVP People and Culture at ESL Gaming. “This is only the first part of a number of #GGFORALL initiatives we are currently working on and we can’t wait to tell you more about what is yet to come.”

“At ESL Gaming we truly believe in a world where everybody can be somebody, so going back to the grassroots level and creating an all-new ecosystem to ensure ambitious women CS:GO players are given equal chances is a great step forward,” added Brian Krämer, General Manager, CS:GO at ESL Gaming, and Charlie Sirc, Product Manager at ESL Gaming, in a joint statement. “With a great lineup of events for next year already, we are super excited to develop this new product further in 2022 and beyond.”

Other CSR initiatives launched in conjunction with the women’s CS:GO circuit include ESL Gaming’s recently announced efforts to offset its carbon footprint.

For more information about the CS:GO ecosystem for women please visit the official website via ggforall.gg.