Author - Ripper71

Killing Floor 3 Review

2 months ago

Killing Floor has been around for quite a while. Starting as a mod for Unreal Tournament 2004, it released in 2005 before going retail then delivering two sequels, the most recent coming out 20 years later. The question on a lot of people’s mind is whether or not the most recent game is worth going back to the franchise for.

One big reason folks might go back to the game is its history of blood and gore. With a name like Killing Floor you expect a mess and these guys are happy to bring it. When the zombie-like specimens known as ZEDs start running at you with glowing eyes and enough enemies to feel like you are getting zerged it’s good to have some redemption for every time they get you pinned in a corner or drop down off the walls and ceiling. Watching the the M.E.A.T. 2 (Massive Evisceration And Trauma) in action makes getting chewed up now and then a little more fun. The weapons could use some more punch, it can be rough filling enemies with a lead diet. I like the stores located throughout the levels that help adjust your fight style to best match the teams needs as well as preparing for “boss” fights. You earn money by taking down ZEDs, but make sure you save up to gear up before hitting the big baddies.

Something you might need to get used to while killing your way through the game is the AI is smarter than Killing Floor 2 thanks probably in part to KF3 being built on the Unreal Tournament 5 engine. So in the beginning as you get used to the game and grind up to get some unlocks the ZEDs will show up in all fashion of creepy cadavers and figure out the best way to attack you. Some will choose the walls and ceilings, others might see you sweeping your machine gun across a wave and duck below it or take cover. The extra challenge can be welcome as long as it doesn’t get so challenging that it’s no longer fun.

I found the game particularly hard on the keyboard and mouse which surprised me since many of the games used to orient primarily that way. It felt a little clunky on the keys. As soon as I picked up my PC controller my gameplay quality shot through the roof. The game has cross-platform playing on multiplayer and I found myself playing with Playstation players most of the time which makes me happier to see more players. Killing Floor 3 is currently dealing with from small community population so it can be hard to fill a party. Luckily it allows cross-levels as well as platforms so that I would have been overrun completely on an early wave if not for getting leveled with a much higher player. One of the days of review was a server testing day right before release which usually brings on a higher population usually to help tests and it was still a bit quiet

The game has Solo as well as Multiplayer modes but its got a bit of a learning curve and grind to it. The developers have taken notice and made adjustment to try to improve the concerns which were brought up in both Beta and Early Access so there will probably be a patch on release day to fix most of the noted concerns. There are six character classes to choose from, pretty much anything you would want or need for your zerging ZED needs: Commando, Firebug, Medic, Sharpshooter, Ninja and Engineer. Since you can have 6 players in your party then every position in theory could be filled once, though when first getting going to have a couple Medics in your party is not a bad idea.

I would be remiss to talk about the gore and not the graphics. Killing Floor 3 makes use of that UT5 engine really well and not just for the splats. The details in the environment and the GOREgeous maps looking very much like the end of the world while gunshots and other weapons all have very authentic sound. They didn’t scrimp on the map visuals, it’s the end of the world as we know it, and I see grime. Also instead of just limiting your experience with the original skins in the game, much like with Fortnite or Call Of Duty Mobile (my daily play), you can completely change the way your character, weapons, calling card or avatar looks just for the entertainment. There are people who believe in purism but I have 5 years worth of CODM skins so I know I will be playing around with some in KF3.

Did you love Killing Floor 2? This felt like an upgrade in quality while still having the same atmosphere and maintaining a solid FPS gameplay. Its got potential, they’ve been working hard to add in community concerns while fixing things most probably didn’t even notice. Hopefully it gets the fan base to take of, or at least hit a cult following like the first two installments. The game could make a killing so hopefully it doesn’t wind up dead on the floor.

Titan Quest 2 Early Access Preview

2 months ago

Ripper71

Geek News, News, Previews, Windows PC News, Windows PC Preview

When talking about Titan Quest with a friend recently and he described it as “the game that out-Diabloed Diablo”. I can’t imagine saying it any better. To me that was a bold statement having spent days and years playing all the Diablo games. Now the Early Access for Titan Quest 2 just dropped a 3 month patch on it’s not-quite-ready-for-primetime game that makes you wonder does the IP still hold up to and surpass its hellish cousin?

First thing to note is that this game is still in very Early Access with a projected release date of the end of 2026, there will be lots of changes and versions over the next year. The multiplayer aspect of the game is still in early enough phase that it’s not available for preview yet. This usually means the games will be far more polished and robust when they come out but the publishers have a preview level Early Access so usually is trying to drum up hype and knowledge of their game being in the works. Side quests and whole storylines haven’t been implemented yet and Early Access games can wind up being very different from the final product.

Titan Quest 2 is a top down dungeon crawler with with 4 current classes and multiple passive and active skill trees. The classes are Earth, Rogue. Storm and Warfare. We started with Warfare since the warrior class is usually one of the easier classes to master. With only four classes at this time players might be concerned that there isn’t enough variety of characters to play, no need to be. The class name is to give you a base to work with, different skills can be mixed together so that you might have a big old battle ax but with equipment and skill tree modifiers I can add poison or maybe lightning to create a very diverse attack and defense. Second time through we went with Earth and I found myself with a big old war axe and lots of warrior level armor while shooting huge fireballs when whole waves of critters come at me.

Controls are similar to other dungeon crawlers so once you get used to the camera system the rest is pretty intuitive. I played back and forth between the keyboard and the controller, both systems worked great for us to the point that if we got up to get a snack then come back to the computer we would randomly pick which we wanted to do. The program detected immediately whether you were on a controller or keyboard and swapped controls to your choice even going so far as to change the key/controller hints at the bottom of the screen. It’s the nice touches like those

The type of enemies to begin with might seem a little lacking mostly comprised of crabs, snakes and skeletons a majority of the time, it felt like they may have even been place holder NPCs for a more diverse enemy base later down the road. Think of them like the rats you wind up killing in just about every DnD campaign. NPCs already have some nice programming causing range to try to maintain range while tanks come right up on you to save their squishy mates and it’s not unheard of for enemies to run away, regroup, and give another run at you. The enemy critters and the environment in general have very nice colors and detail to them. This is particularly enjoyable since the game is designed as open environment with little nooks and crannies all throughout the maps to find hidden enemies and destroyable pots which drop gold and gear. Gear has multiple qualities determined by colors from grey to gold and just like in the first Titan Quest and Diablo games it can be drops or merchant purchases. On the subject of purchases the developers plan to drop updates, expansions and DLC but without micro-transactions. They plan to implement a crafting system that can take even a grey item and make it useful. It also seems the further you get along the better the store items available and that can be helpful if your drops aren’t too exciting.

There were some sound issues throughout the playthroughs but it is still at a point where rough cuts on cutaways and sound effects not working can be expected in the game and I expect many more patches and updates. Since the soundtrack for the game is available for purchase one can expect they are proud of what they’re working with and it will improve.

Being huge fans of the top down dungeon crawler genre we are excited to see how Titan Quest 2 develops over the next year and to see how it faces up to Diablo 4. It definitely needs some work but it hass got about 20 hours of playtime now with plenty of replayability between different classes, builds, and additions that will continue beyond game release once that time arrives. Expect updates here at Gamingshogun.com!

Is TurretGirls Worth It? A Sexy Anime Arcade Shooter Review

3 months ago

Ripper71

Geek News, News, Reviews, Windows PC News, Windows PC Review

Sometimes you just want an arcade-style shooter with lots of firepower, shiny graphics, and a rail defense system. Other times, you want a game with grinds and lots of unlocks. If both of these things and some sexy, anime-looking graphics are your thing, then TurretGirls might just be the game for you!

TurretGirls is the story of a girl who rides a turret to defend something. Okay, there really isn’t a story, but when it comes to arcade-style games, one isn’t really needed. The action takes place on a rail system with a girl bent over the turret, which can be aimed and upgraded. Old-school rail systems included games like Missile Command, Galaga, and 1942. The really clever part of the game is how it is combined with a tower defense system. In front of the rail system are five locations where towers can be built. These towers add offensive or defensive elements and contribute power to a super weapon, which is the main objective of the game.

So, the gameplay breaks down to moving side-to-side on the screen to attack wave after wave of monsters and defend your towers, turret, and the girl herself. If all the towers get taken out or the girl gets stripped completely naked over a series of attacks (she does have pasties over the sensitive spots), then it’s game over and time to restart. You can unlock clothes to redress in during the match, but they are pricey. The more you grind at it, the more items you can unlock to help in the next battle. The items are cosmetics, such as new panties, a bra, or an animal’s tail, but they also add to your stats or damage in some way. For example, you can unlock a cat tail that adds 5% to Attack Power and 5% to Knockback. It is a solid combination rail and tower game, but that doesn’t stop them from having sexy fun with the character and shiny fun with all the weapon attack styles and colors. You also unlock higher-quality towers that add power to your super weapon but also generally add some type of attack as well, such as anti-air homing missiles. At its very essence, it could be compared to Space Invaders: waves of bad guys come in, and you are defending buildings with a turret on a rail. However, it is taken to the extreme in comparison, and the towers sometimes shoot back. If a tower gets taken out, you lose any weapon systems or bonuses the tower gave you as well as the charge it was providing toward the super weapon. The enemy keeps coming in waves over a set period of time. Try to survive the countdown with all your clothes and towers intact.

You can play it with a controller or keyboard and mouse; it really comes down to personal preference. Just try both out and see which one seems to work better for you. There are currently only three levels: wasteland, snowy plain, and abandoned city, and two modes: stage and endless. The game is priced affordably, and mixing, matching, and leveling unlocked items makes for lots of replayability, but it would be nice to have some more stages. Who knows? If the community is active enough, they may start having their own fun… I always welcome a Starship Troopers mod.

Sometimes you want to dive into a game that lasts 100 hours and has you learning the entire life and possible death of your hero. This is not a game for those times. TurretGirls is a fun pick-up-and-play that’s easy to put back down until next time. It’s a combination turret and tower defense at its core, but it’s a firepower fest that doesn’t take itself too seriously, with cheeky fun when it comes to the view and unlocks. Regularly priced at $10, it’s an affordable, fun way to pass some time and sharpen your reflexes.

Level Up Your Game Room: Govee Mini Panel Lights Review

2025/02/18

Ripper71

Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

Every year when the Consumer Electronics Show descends upon Las Vegas, I can’t help but think it should be renamed “Cool Electronic Shinies.” The sheer volume of gadgets, from camera-equipped ear wax removal kits to futuristic cars, is overwhelming. While the team here at GamingShogun.com all have our specific areas of interest, we’re united by a fascination with products that enhance the gaming experience. This year, I had the pleasure of checking out the Govee Mini Panel Lights for our gaming lair, and I was immediately struck by the limitless creative potential.

The lights arrived in well-designed, protective packaging—a crucial detail for delicate light-up items. It’s incredibly frustrating to receive a broken lighting product, so I appreciated Govee’s attention to this. The compact packaging was also thoughtfully designed. Unboxing the panels immediately sparked my imagination. The lights are available in sets of 10 or 20, but it’s the 20-panel set that truly unleashes your creativity.

The sets include small pads that snap between the lights, conducting the electrical current. This is how power travels from one panel to the next, and it dictates the patterns you can create. A panel won’t light up unless it’s connected to a pad, so careful planning is essential. The process feels like a blend of LEGOs and the classic Lite Brite, where designs were created with pegs instead of panels.

Once your design is assembled, the real fun begins: lighting it up. Govee’s comprehensive phone app allows you to customize every aspect of the lighting. You can change individual panel colors, illuminate specific panels while leaving others dark, create dynamic light patterns, and much more. In my household, we embrace the holidays with gusto (we’re the type who keep our Christmas tree up well into January and plan our Halloween costumes ten months in advance), so I immediately started brainstorming holiday-themed designs. There’s a slight learning curve with the app, but once I had physically assembled the panels and adjusted the connector pads, I quickly came up with several variations on a pumpkin, a Valentine’s Day heart, and I already have a Christmas tree design in mind.

While searching online for design inspiration, I discovered a thriving community dedicated to Govee Mini Panel Lights. They’ve created an incredible array of designs, which I can either replicate directly or adapt to my own vision. This active community is a fantastic resource.

Other notable features include the ability to connect up to 70 panels, music syncing, and compatibility with other Govee products like lamps and light strips. One suggestion for improvement would be to offer more connector pads. Having additional pads would significantly expand design possibilities, and I’m sure dedicated users would be willing to purchase them separately.

Overall, the Govee Mini Panel Lights are incredibly fun and a fantastic addition to any gaming den or family room. They can enhance the listening experience, serve as party decorations, and provide a creative outlet. The active community of designers provides endless inspiration. I anticipate reconfiguring these lights for every holiday throughout the year. Perhaps I should invest in the full 70-panel set…

Good stuff:

They’re incredibly customizable, letting you create tons of unique shapes and designs.
The vibrant colors and app controls offer a huge range of lighting effects.
They’re versatile, working well for gaming, holidays, and general home lighting.

Not-so-good stuff:

The app has a bit of a learning curve.
More connector pads would unlock even more design possibilities.

CES 2025 Las Vegas: A First-Hand Look at the Tech Revolution

2025/02/03

Ripper71

Articles, CES, Geek News, Industry News, Misc Review, News, Reviews, Tech News

Las Vegas, the city of lights, recently hosted the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, and it was a spectacle to behold. Imagine a place where the latest innovations in artificial intelligence, sustainability, and personal technology converge, creating a whirlwind of excitement and possibility. That was CES 2025.

From the moment I stepped onto the show floor, I was bombarded with sights and sounds. Giant screens displayed dazzling visuals, robots zipped around performing demonstrations, and the air buzzed with the energy of thousands of attendees. It was sensory overload in the best possible way.

One of the first things that struck me was the sheer scale of the event. Massive booths showcased everything from tiny ear-cleaning devices to towering John Deere tractors, highlighting the incredible breadth of the consumer electronics industry. I saw the latest phone cases displayed alongside Stern’s new Dungeons and Dragons pinball machine, a testament to the diversity of products on display.

But CES is more than just gadgets and gizmos. It’s a glimpse into the future. I attended CES Unveiled, a showcase of emerging technologies, and was blown away by the innovations. Robots that assist people with walking, flying vehicles that fold up into a cybertruck, and rings that track your health information were just a few of the highlights. It felt like stepping into a science fiction movie.

The energy at CES was palpable. Days were filled with exploring the show floor, attending presentations, and meeting with companies. Evenings were packed with networking events like ShowStoppers and Pepcom, where companies showcased their latest products to attendees and press. It was a non-stop whirlwind of activity.

While the show floor was a mesmerizing maze of booths and exhibits, there was a sense of organization to the chaos. Car electronics were grouped with audio systems, and there were dedicated sections for companies from different countries. Razer, the gaming giant, even had their own hall to celebrate their 20th anniversary with the launch of their groundbreaking Project Ava.

CES is a truly global event, bringing together companies from all over the world. It’s a melting pot of ideas and perspectives, where distributors, manufacturers, and software developers converge to showcase the latest advancements in consumer electronics.

More than just a trade show, CES is a testament to human ingenuity and our relentless pursuit of progress. It’s a place where the lines between imagination and reality blur, leaving attendees with a sense of wonder and excitement for the future. If you ever have the chance to attend CES, don’t hesitate. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

CES 2025 PHOTO GALLERY

Creation Entertainment’s Trek To Vegas STLV 2024 Event Wrap-Up

2024/08/16

Ripper71

Geek News, Misc Review, News, Reviews

One of GamingShogun.com’s favorite conventions is undoubtedly Creation Entertainment’s Trek to Vegas. Fans travel from around the globe to be part of one of the most inclusive communities, all while enjoying the excitement of Las Vegas, complete with bright lights and fantastic shows.

From the moment you step through the doors, you can feel the unique atmosphere. Everyone is comfortable expressing their true selves in this safe and welcoming environment. You can strike up a conversation with a complete stranger as if you’ve known them for years, and cosplay is encouraged, whether it’s Star Trek-themed, science fiction, or something entirely different.

The panels are always a highlight, and this year was no exception. Attendees, from general admission to Captain’s Chair and VIP levels, can enjoy panels in the spacious Leonard Nimoy Theater, with some having the privilege of being closer to the stage. Other rooms host panels as well, including cast and crew reunions, and an intimate stage in The Lounge.

The Trek family is well-represented, from the star cast members to the writers and production team. Creation Entertainment consistently brings together individuals from across the Star Trek universe to share their fascinating stories. The challenge lies in trying to catch all your favorite panels on different stages while also exploring the show floor. Walter Koenig’s panel is a must-see every year, as are any panels featuring Jonathan Frakes or Kate Mulgrew, whose comedic timing and captivating stories are always a delight.

At first glance, the show floor might seem like a typical vendor area, but as you explore, you’ll encounter actors and actresses with diverse roles and careers, from the woman who played Cindy in Land of the Lost to Anson Mount from Strange New Worlds. While vendors are plentiful, the sheer number of celebrities you can meet and interact with surpasses the vendor booths. Some cast members are regulars, while others attend less frequently, ensuring there’s always something new to discover at each convention. This year, Christopher Lloyd was a major draw. While lines can form, they generally move quickly, and the celebrities take their time, genuinely enjoying their interactions with fans.

The best-dressed man at the convention was arguably Doug Jones, who is also one of the kindest individuals we’ve encountered, offering hugs and genuine empathy to fans. Garrett Wang, equally attentive at his booth, readily comes out from behind his table to chat and embrace fans. Creation Entertainment’s final count before the convention was an impressive 192 guests across various fandoms.

Creation Entertainment often uses the phrase “We are one, one are we.” Much of the Star Trek community aspires to the ideals that Gene Roddenberry established, and the franchise has upheld. Trek to Vegas unites like-minded individuals who can express themselves freely, even if it’s not through Star Trek. The convention is filled with random compliments and countless photos with strangers. If only the real world could be more like this.

Photo Gallery

NAB Show 2024 Wrap-Up

2024/06/13

Ripper71

Geek News, News

After 15 years directing television news, I’ve seen the industry transform from its carbon-paper-and-teleprompter days to the internet-driven landscape it is today. For decades, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention was where we went to upgrade our newsrooms, studios, and production facilities. Over 20 years after my first visit, I returned to a very different NAB, reflecting the massive shift towards internet-based content creation.

This year, lightweight, easy-to-use equipment for podcasting, live streaming, and mobile editing dominated the floor. While broadcast giants like Ross and Grass Valley still showcased their elaborate studio setups, portable multi-source mixers highlighted the growing demand for on-the-go production. Audio remains crucial in all forms of media, from TikTok to traditional radio. High-quality wireless microphones and headphones that protect against interference were abundant at NAB, reflecting their importance for both dedicated camera setups and independent creators. “E Sports” was the buzzword of the convention, with countless companies seeking partnerships in this burgeoning field. From peripherals to streaming devices to sponsorships, the eSports presence was impossible to miss.

Despite its name, NAB isn’t just for major broadcasters anymore. The convention caters to everyone, from top market stations to aspiring YouTubers, and its diverse array of technology could easily justify renaming it the “International Association of Broadcasters.” Can’t wait to see how the industry evolves at next year’s NAB!

2024 LVLUP Expo Las Vegas Wrap-Up

2024/05/23

Ripper71

Geek News, Misc Review, News, Reviews

Las Vegas is a convention haven, catering to nearly every interest imaginable. Amidst car shows, construction expos, and even a Star Trek convention, the LVLUP Expo stands out for its diverse fandom appeal.

The bustling atmosphere of LVLUP was evident from the free GFuel samples at the entrance – a much-appreciated energy boost considering the packed schedule of panels and parties. The spacious, well-organized West Hall provided ample room for each section, but comfortable shoes were a must due to the sheer size of the venue. The Las Vegas Convention Authority thoughtfully provided the Vegas Loop for free transportation to and from parking lots and the monorail station.

Once inside, the fun began. Wild Bill’s Craft Beverages offered delicious craft sodas, including a diet option that didn’t taste like one. Mixing their vanilla creme and orange flavors created a delightful creamsicle drink. A personal favorite, I’ve enjoyed their beverages at conventions for the past nine years.

The expo offered a wide array of activities. A row of renowned anime and video game voice actors drew long lines of eager fans. Instagram-worthy selfie walls, a car show with customized anime cars, a busy tattoo booth, card game tables, and comic and character artists filled the hall. Card, retro video game, and fighter game tournaments entertained attendees, while Versus Pro Wrestling’s daily performances thrilled the crowds.

Vendors sold everything from cosplay props to the opportunity to participate in a scavenger hunt called Side Quest. New this year was axe throwing, a fun activity I’d love to try again at their smash house. I even had the chance to play the beginning of the new Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 game, leaving me eager to play more.

The heart of LVLUP lies in its extensive free-play gaming area. From Ms. PacMan to the full-sized Star Wars Battle Pod, Dance Dance Revolution, and even Asian video games I’d never encountered before, the variety was impressive. Card, fighting game, and retro console tournaments, projected on giant screens with guest commentators, rounded out the gaming experience. Outside the main hall, panel rooms hosted discussions with anime voice actors, cosplay education, and more.

The amazing cosplay added another layer of excitement to the event. LVLUP Expo consistently ranks among my favorites, the only challenge being fitting everything into the three-day schedule. If you’re in Las Vegas, this convention is definitely not to be missed.

Oh Snap! Snap 4 Luxe Review

2024/04/20

Ripper71

Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

As passionate gamers at GamingShogun.com, we’re always on the go, switching between consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. My days are filled with console sessions, scrolling through gaming news on my phone, squeezing in mobile matches during errands, and even trying to sneak in a quick round of CODM while battling traffic as a passenger. All this nonstop action means I need a phone grip that delivers comfort, security, and versatility beyond my current MagSafe case with its awkwardly placed Chewbacca ring. That’s why I was excited to try Oh Snap!’s latest offering, the Snap 4 Luxe.

Installation is where the Snap 4 Luxe shines. Many grips require careful alignment for both comfort and optimal MagSafe charging passthrough. Not so with the Luxe – the instructions are easy to follow, and it locks effortlessly onto the magnetic ring. But the true innovation lies in its rotating grip design. Forget fiddling for the perfect angle; simply twist the grip until it perfectly matches your natural hand position.

Another winning feature is the Snap 4 Luxe’s low profile. It barely adds thickness to your phone, eliminating snags when sliding into pockets and avoiding interference with your camera. While this means sacrificing a vertical kickstand, I gladly trade that for a sleeker design. I appreciate how unobtrusive it is when idle and the freedom of 360-degree rotation for my ideal grip in any situation.

Of course, MagSafe compatibility is essential, and the Snap 4 Luxe delivers. Its aircraft-grade aluminum construction aids both durability and seamless wireless charging. I’ve even managed more daring mobile gaming maneuvers, trusting the strength of the grip – and the Luxe hasn’t let me down yet! The only downside to the product is that it retails for $40 dollars, which is higher than most pop socket-like products on the market. However, the quality of the Snap 4 Luxe is apparent – it just depends on whether it is in your budget.

Oh Snap!’s Snap 4 Luxe checks nearly every box for the perfect phone grip. It offers a stylish aesthetic, versatile functionality, and a robust build that instills confidence. Despite its premium price point, the low profile design and outstanding construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious mobile gamers. See you on the mobile battlefield!

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

magHANDL and HANDLstick Review

2024/03/11

Ripper71

Geek News, News, Peripheral Review, Reviews

I was on the hunt for a better phone grip at the Consumer Electronics Show this year. My current setup – a plain, clear MagSafe case with a generic Chewbacca ring holder – was functional but not exactly stylish. Thankfully, I stumbled upon HANDL New York, and they transformed my phone-holding experience.

magHANDL:

I knew about MagSafe but hadn’t used it much. We chose a new case, and Mrs. Ripper kindly modeled the magHANDL once it was attached. I was worried about messing up the installation, but it was a breeze! The magHANDL held securely while I walked around and even during intense rounds of Call of Duty: Mobile.

The stretchy design also doubles as a convenient stand for watching videos. HANDL New York offers a wide variety of styles and colors, from faux crocodile to famous artwork. This system is perfect for anyone who likes to switch up their phone’s look and benefit from different grip options.

HANDLstick:

If you don’t use MagSafe or want a no-frills grip solution, the HANDLstick is a fantastic option. It’s incredibly secure – I could easily fit three or four fingers through the handle. Just find the ideal placement for the grip and the stand, which is sturdy and well-designed. I’m definitely planning on using the HANDLstick on my next cross-country flight so my phone sits comfortably on the tray table.

The Verdict

HANDL New York offers excellent solutions for improving your phone grip. The best choice depends on your needs and preferences. Either way, they prove that phone handles can be both functional and fashionable.