Indholdsfortegnelse for Autumn Edition 2025, Vol. 20 Issue 01 i New Age Gaming

Is it just me or does it feel Like NAG Magazine get's better with every issue? Looking at the hard work that goes into each magazine and the amount of love the friends of NAG have for gaming, there is no doubt that gaming holds such a special place in so many people’s lives. We have so many titles, new and old that we can delve into, and it seems that no matter your skill level or your gaming PC specifications, there is a game out there that you can fall in love with and enjoy with many hours of game time. From your smartphone to your PC and console, gaming has finally permeated every persuasion and its really just up to you to make sure you play games worthy…

CRKD has teamed up with guitar legend Gibson to release the Les Paul Blueberry Burst Pro Edition, a sleek guitar controller aimed at reigniting the rhythm gaming craze. Unveiled earlier this year, the controller sports the Les Paul's iconic blue-to-purple burst finish and is aimed at rhythm game players for games like Fortnite Festival, Guitar Hero, Rock Band 4, and the community titles like YARG and Clone Hero. There are two version of the CRKD x Gibson Les Paul Blueberry Burst Pro Edition guitar controller available, a multi-platform and an Xbox compatible version. No word on local availability but expect to pay upwards of R2,500 should you find it online.…

Microsoft has launched its new Xbox Adaptive Joystick for gamers with limited mobility. This joystick adds to the already extensive list of accessibility hardware that the company has developed over the last few years. The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is a singular, wired controller. Its versatility helps players seamlessly incorporate it into their existing gaming setups. It allows you to operate a controller without having to use both hands, making it ideal for any players who might have difficulty using the thumbsticks on existing controllers. All the buttons are fully customisable, and there are a variety of 3D printable thumbstick toppers to customise the sizes, heights, and width of the thumbsticks. “From very early on with the adaptive joystick, we had disability community be hands-on with early designs and functional prototypes,”…

WHAT IS STEAMOS? SteamOS is an operating system developed by Valve, the creator of the Steam ptatform. Initially launched in 2013 as part of Valve's Steam Machine initiative, SteamOS has since evolved into a robust system tailored for gaming. At its core, SteamOS provides a console-like interface optimised for gaming, complete with controller support and seamless integration with the Steam ecosystem. The operating system leverages Proton, Valve's compatibility layer, to run many Windows games on Linux, significantly expanding the library of playable titles. It's lightweight, minimalist, and built for performance, making it an attractive option for gamers who want to focus solely on playing games without the clutter of a traditional desktop OS. Currently, the only handheld that supports SteamOS is the Steam Deck, Valve's handheld gaming device, but starting…

DEVELOPER LEMONCHILI SOFT PUBLISHER RENXO EUROPE LIMITED GENRE FARMING SIM RELEASE DATE TBA PLATFORMS PC NINTENDO SWITCH IOS ANDROID IT’S FARMING, BUT WITH SUPERPOWERS AND CHAIN REACTIONS! If you've ever played a farming sim and thought to yourself, “This is fun, but what if I could harvest crops at the speed of light and solve puzzles at the same time?” then you're in for a treat. Enter Super Farming Boy, a game that takes the cosy farming genre, injects it with a triple espresso shot of adrenaline, and wraps it all in a package so charming it's impossible not to smile while your fields descend into glorious chaos. When I first played the demo, it was clear that Super Farming Boy wasn't just another drop in the overflowing watering can…

Delta Force is a term most synonymous with the elite task force of special operatives from the US military, which is closely tied to the 1993 events of Black Hawk Down in Mogadishu. From Netflix documentaries to hit TV films, Delta Force and their undercover, top-secret operations appear almost everywhere, and those with a good enough memory will remember the days of Delta Force in the gaming sphere in the late nineties. Forget 2025 and its Unreal Engines. The original Delta Force game is a legend born in 1998 and built on a Voxel terrain engine that allowed NovaLogic to create a first-person shooter different from anything that was available at the time. While most of the landscape Looked like coloured-in mud, Delta Force provided players with large-scale maps and…

MASTER THE JOKER, CELESTIAL, AND TAROT CARDS SYNERGY These cards are crucial for unlocking powerful combinations that can lead to massive multipliers. FOCUS ON CARD VALUE AND TAGGING Cards with high base values are essential for building strong hands. Pay close attention to the cards that come with tags or modifiers as these will multiply your final score during each hand. OPTIMISE YOUR DECK BASED ON AVAILABLE CARDS Always adjust your strategy according to the cards you are dealt. Don’t focus on trying to build an ultra-optimised deck from the start. UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF MULTIPLIERS The game’s multiplying mechanics are crucial to achieving high scores. Focus on setting up hands that can trigger large multiplicative effects. TAKE YOUR TIME WITH STRATEGY Since Balatro is a game of strategy and…

SCAN FOR THE FULL PLAYLIST Music isn't just background noise in video games - it's the heartbeat of our adventures. A single melody can transport us back to a tense boss fight, a heartbreaking farewell, or the sheet joy of exploring a vast, open world. In NAG's Mixtape Vol. 2, we continue our deep dive into the most unforgettable scores in gaming. From Sweeping orchestral arrangements that breathe life into fantasy realms to pulse-pounding synth beats that fuel high-speed chases, these soundtracks are more than just music - they’re an essential part of the experience. So plug in, turn up the volume, and join us as we celebrate the composers and melodies that make gaming truly unforgettable. CITIZEN SLEEPER 2: STARWARD VECTOR (ORIGINAL GAME SOUNDTRACK) Written, produced, and recorded by…

RELEASE DATE: 20 MARCH 2025 GENRE: ACTION ROLE-PLAYING GAME DEVELOPER: UBISOFT PUBLISHER: UBISOFT PLATFORMS: PC / PLAYSTATION 5 XBOX SERIES X/S / MACOS WEBSITE: WWW.UBISOFT.COM The Assassin's Creed franchise has been around for almost two decades. The first game was released in 2007, and since then, the series has explored various historical periods, from Ancient Egypt to the American Revolution. The latest title in the franchise, Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn’t looking to rewrite history but rather reinterpret it, blending fact with fiction to create an experience that’s as bold as its assassins. For years, Assassin's Creed fans have been practically begging for one thing: a game set in feudal Japan. Instead, we got Ancient Greece (Odyssey), Viking Longships (Valhalla), and a brief Shinobi-adjacent experience in Chronicles: China - which, while fun, was a 2.5D side-scroller…

DEVELOPER: CAPCOM GENRE: ADVENTURE / HACK AND SLASH PLATFORMS: PS5 / XBS X|S / GEFORCE NOW / PC For anyone who hasn't yet tried a Monster Hunter game. Monster Hunter pretty much describes itself in the title. You are a hunter, a select member of society that has been given weapons to fend off wild beasts and protect everyone else. While there are some monsters Smaller in size, the main prize of each quest usually involves a big, hulking behemoth that needs to be taken down. Using one of fourteen weapon types, you can take on the monsters by yourself, or, more excitingly, you can party up with a few friends to take down these beasts with a bit more strategy and teamwork. Each monster has different strengths, weaknesses and…

DEVELOPER: REBELLION DEVELOPMENTS / WUSHU STUDIOS GENRE: STEALTH / THIRD-PERSON SHOOTER PLATFORMS: PS5 / PS4 / XB X|S|ONE / PC Sure, I may not have been conscripted to the South African Army when I turned 18, but if you put a mouse in my hand and chuck an AWP onto the screen in front of me, I can guarantee a good few headshots that would induce many to shout “hacks”. Which leads me to Sniper Elite: Resistance - a nut-blasting, sneak-tastic romp in the middle of German occupied France, during World War II. You play as Harry Hawker, a British Special Operatives Executive, who, in reality, is just Jason Statham pretending to be some game character. It's both completely awesome and cringe-worthy every time he drops a line. Your task?…

DEVELOPER: WARHORSE STUDIOS GENRE: ACTION / ADVENTURE / RPG PLATFORMS: PC / PS5 / XBS X/S When it comes to genres in gaming, few are as tied to the hip as garbing and fantasy - going way back to the days of text adventures like Colossal Cave Adventure and Zork, the ever-expanding tabletop empire of Dungeons & Dragons, and even other genres like the first RPGs. And yet, for all its strengths, I have found it so difficult to be enthralled by even the greatest games released in this genre, barring The Witcher 3. This type of fiction just could not capture my attention in the same way that a grounded story in a historical setting could. ENTER KINGDOM COME DELIVERANCE. I only got around to playing the first game…

You know what they say, the best gaming handheld device is the one you have with you. Just like phone cameras had an impact on DLSR cameras, so are smartphones encroaching in on the handheld gaming sphere. As you'll see from our mobile gaming roundup in this issue, there are plenty of mobile games that give you a console-like experience and in some cases, even a completely new gaming experience. Using your smartphone as a controller or motion controller is a genius idea for super causal gaming around your smart TV and is a fun way to share your love for gaming with family and friends who may not be gamers. Of particular interest is Netflix Games, which is still in Beta here in South Africa, that lets you pair…

Kasi-Flare is mere than just an EA FC tournament, it's a movement. Designed to boost esports in South Africa’s townships, this competition provides local gamers with a structured platform to showcase their talent. For many players, gaming is more than a pastime; it's a passion and a potential career path. However, access to competitive and professional opportunities has been limited in township communities. Mettlestate and Penrose are bridging the gap between grassroots gaming and professional esports, ensuring that gamers in townships have access to high-quality tournaments, exposure, and the infrastructure needed to compete at the highest level. Kasi-Flare 2025 is set to be the biggest edition yet, with gaming hubs across the country ready to host electrifying battles that will ultimately crown South Africa's next Kasi champion. THE PATH TO…

During the 2023 Red Bull Kumite Cup held in South Africa, JabhiM, our favourite local esports fighter, faced off against Street Fighting Legend from Japan, Tokido. After an epic bout, JabhiM managed to secure victory showing that we have a little spice behind our punches down in South Africa This year at the Capcom Cup 11, JabhiM was once again placed to face the Japanese legend. Putting his mark in the Street Fighter sand, JabhiM defeated Tokido in front of his home crowd, proving to be his prime nemesis. After an epic first two days in the tournament, JabhiM settled into second place in his group but unfortunately Day 3 proved to pack a little too much heat, ultimately knocking JabhiM out of the tournament.…

DESIGNERS / Evan Derrick / A.J. Porfirio ARTISTS / Tyler Johnson / Roland MacDonald PUBLISHER / Van Ryder Games PLAYERS / 1 PLAYTIME / 20-60 Minutes WEBSITE / vanrydergames.com In Final Girl, you're not just watching the horror unfold— you're living it, one dice roll at a time. When you think of board games, you probably imagine a group of friends arguing over rules, someone hoarding the good snacks, and chaos at every turn. But what if it didn't have to be that way? Welcome to the world of solo board games, where it's just you, the board, and the thrill of victory— or the sting of defeat. Solo board gaming has come a long way from being a niche pastime [Windows 98 Solitaire FTW! - Ed] to a booming part of the tabletop scene.…

The young generation alive today have the most incredible technology tools at their disposal but parents often don't know where to start. This month we Show you how to give your kids the right tools, to master AI. If you have not yet played with one of the many AI tools out there, you are doing yourself a disservice. Here at NAG we put it to good use for research, understanding tech principles or Just chatting with it when we get bored. To give you a very basic comparison AI is just just like a really clever search engine that gives you contextual information based on human language input from your side. Some AI engines allow you to simply talk to it for response, resulting in the ability to merely…

One of the modern marvels in this digital era is the wonderful technology called Fibre to the home. Having access to some of the fastest Internet connectivity speeds on the planet, still blows, my mind. My 1Gbps fibre Line at home aLLows me to upload video footage and backups at breakneck speed, while downloading games to test a new gaming PC happens faster than you can say, “I have run out of backup storage to keep my game Files offline”. Access to super-fast internet saves me a lot of time and aggravation when I test things for a living. For families the plight of access to Wi-Fi is an eternal struggle that Only escalates the older your kids get. The irony is, even with the fastest internet connection piped to…

A good gaming mouse needs to have a high-precision sensor, some programmable buttons, adjustable DPI, a decent patting rate, in-hand comfort, and a suitable weight. It should also be priced in such a way as to keep your partner from kicking you out of the house for spending too much money on that replacement. So finding the perfect mouse, or replacement, reguires a little understanding of what each of the key specifications mean, so let's guickly break them down. A HIGH PRECISION SENSOR The optical sensor underneath the mouse tells your PC how you are moving youryrnouse around in real-time. High-precision optical sensors allow gamers to make minute movements for greater accuracy and detect fast, sharp movements for those epic 360-no-scopes. Top-of-the-range gaming mice will offer a tracking speed of…

SENSOR PIXART PMW3389DH 400IPS PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO NON-PROGRAMMABLE THUMB BUTTONS DPI SCALE 400-16,000 (7 PRE-DETERMINED STEPS) POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ SIZE AND WEIGHT 117.3 X 64.6 X 37MM | 95 GRAMS PRICE R610 SUPPLIER RECTRON The Ducky Secret-M Retro pays homage to Ducky's first-ever mouse, the Secret. Sticking to its classic Looks on the outside with some modern hardware under the hood, the Secret-M Retro is the definition of a sleeper. It's a right-hand favoured mouse thanks to its ergonomic design, and even though it sits in the medium weight category at 95 grams, it still feels guite hefty on the mousepad. Ducky is another one of those brands that doesn't include any software for customising their products. While some gamers might not like this due to macro editing, others…

⬊ SENSOR PIXART PMW3389 400IPS ⬊ PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS, ONE DPI BUTTON, FIVE DIRECTIONAL JOYSTICK ⬊ DPI SCALE 100-16,000 (100 DPI INCREMENTS) ⬊ POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ ⬊ SIZE AND WEIGHT 130.1 X 67 X 38.3MM | 65 GRAMS ⬊ PRICE R649 ⬊ SUPPLIER SYNTECH The hardware giants, MSI, do sometimes take a break from producing motherboards, GPUs and gaming laptops and give us peripheral fundies a bit of love by making keyboards and mice, too. This time, we have their Clutch GM41 in hand, a budget-friendly gaming mouse that packs a lot of good hardware beneath its plastic shell. In terms of design, the Clutch GM41 offers a long and flat ambidextrous body, perfect for gamers who enjoy a full palm grip. Two programmable thumb buttons are…

PANEL 32-INCH QD-OLED RESOLUTION 4K (3840X2160PX) REFRESH RATE 240HZ RESPONSE TIME 0.03MS (GTG) BRIGHTNESS 250 NITS DYNAMIC REFRESH RATE TECHNOLOGY ADAPTIVE-SYNC VIDEO PORTS 1X DISPLAY PORT (1.4A) 2X HDMI (4K@240HZ) 1X TYPE-C (DP ALT.) W/PD 15W CHARGING WEIGHT 9.1 KG PRICE R34,200 WHERE TO BUY WWW.WOOTWARE.CO.ZA Ah, yes, video games, the hobby that constantly reminds me that I need to upgrade something related to my gaming rig. Recently, it seems to be 4K monitors and I’ve been enjoying the bigger resolution for production work with each one I've reviewed recently. The MSI 321UPX Gaming Monitor is a 32-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor that features a neat thin design with an impressive range of tilt and swivel on the base and monitor arm, a feature that I really appreciate. It's a great…

We still think James is a deep-cover operative who has disguised himself as a gamer, writer, and general wiseass. That’s why we keep him around. He knows too much. HOW THE SWITCH COULD DEFINE A NEW GAMING GENERATION. A few months ago, I got to spend some time with a friend’s Nintendo Switch. Overall, it’s very impressive. I didn’t even try out Nintendo games. Most of it was jamming to Skyrim, beating bandits in the wilds of Tamriel, which is a testament to the device. I didn’t need the antics of Mario or Link to convince me about the Switch’s appeal, (though I did wish my friend brought along at least one Zelda game!). “What else could I play on this?” I wondered, as I naively loaded up the Switch…

Miktar is part of the old guard at NAG, we still have no idea if he is half Minotaur or half Dracon. We pulled some favours to track him down somewhere in rural America, now, we think we should not have… I’m a Linux Guy now. Well, not really. I know how to behave in polite company, and my work/gaming laptop is still Windows 10. For now. I plan to keep it that way as long as possible, but y’know. Microsoft. They really want everyone to switch to Windows 11 where they can force feed us their AI slop. After a string of egregious AI nonsense I thought to myself, “What if, hear me out, not Windows 11 for my next build?” I had not looked, I mean really looked,…

Armin is so immersed in KCDII that he has started to live like a medieval lord in a castle, from digging moats in his garden to scribing his shopping lists in Latin. When I was growing up, there were a bunch of core lessons that my parents wanted to instill in me that I would incorporate into my life one day. It is funny then, how as adults we can sometimes stray so far from sage advice. One of these lessons was to never talk to strangers. Now I talk to strangers every day. No, I don’t care if that is called a “job”. The other one that stuck with me was: Always listen to other people’s ideas and be open-minded into anything I approach. Take us to 2025, and…

Dust off your oversized jeans and fire up the SNES - Acclaim is back from the dead! The legendary ‘80s and ‘90s publisher, once known for NBA Jam, Mortal Kombat ports, and marketing stunts wild enough to make ‘90s MTV bLush, has been resurrected. Backed by a cabal of investors (including pro wrestling royalty Jeff Jarrett), the new Acclaim promises to bankroll indie devs and revive classic IPs. No word yet on which beloved or bizarre franchises are getting a reboot, but CEO Alex Josef swears they’ve got incredible titles lined up. Somewhere, BMX XXX is either trembling or plotting a comeback.…

Originally released in 2001 and 2002, Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3 and 4 are getting remade and bundled together in one gnarly package for fans to enjoy. Releasing on all consoles, PC and even the Nintendo Switch on the 11th of July 2025, the remake will bring the games into the modern era with stunning graphical updates on all the maps, skaters and tricks we so fondly remember, as well as new skaters, new parks, new tricks and even a banging new soundtrack. Pre-orders for the game are already out on all your favourite platforms, and one of the bonuses includes a model of the killer skater himself, Doom Slayer. Better wax up those decks, skaters. The pro-leagues are back.…

The Razef x Fortnite peripheral collection has hit South African shores. The Fortnite collaboration is based on a popular range of existing Razer hardware including the DeathAdder V3 Pro mouse, Razer BlackWidow V4 X keyboard, and Razer Kraken V3 X headset. Each hardware item comes with an exclusive in-game item in the form of skins and items. If you are a Fortnite fan, you can grab your next upgrade from the Razer South Africa store at www.razershop.co.za.…

KaasOtter / Rainbow Six Siege. Game saved me when I was at my lowest, made some awesome friends through it as well and even though it gives me anger issues, it’s got a special place in my heart. JoshuaMeyer69 / New Vegas is the perfect game. It did what was expected and more. It is a game where every inch of that game is a story hidden under another story adding depth, and can be very fun as well. And the weapon choices are great along with great gunplay mechanics that suit it well. ElvinJedi / Knights of the Old Republic. Bioware outdid themselves with this game. They captured the Star Wars ambiance perfectly, the gameplay was fun and strategic, the storyline was captivating, and the plot twist made my…

FEATURING GUITAR HERO ROCK BAND ROCK SMITH FORT NITE? Rhythm Games: A CELEBRATION OF MUSIC, INNOVATION, AND PLAYER CONNECTION Imagine stepping into a world where the beat of the music pulses through your veins. You're not just listening to the song but living it, feeling every note as vibrates through your fingertips, your feet, and your whole body. This isn't a fantasy - it's the magic of rhythm games. From the iconic Guitar Hero to the VR-powered thrills of Beat Saber, rhythm games have transformed music into an interactive experience. They allow players to become the stars of their own concerts, strumming guitars, tapping dance pads, or even wielding lightsabers. It's not just about playing; it's about performing, becoming one with the music, and stepping into a universe where every…

How do you know someone is a fan of Balatro? They’ll tell you about it. If you are tuned into the indie-game-o-sphere you will undoubtedly have heard the word “Balatro” tossed around your social circles by now – probably followed by “you must play it immediately!” This indie, poker-themed roguelike deck builder was developed by a solo, anonymous developer, known simply as LocalThunk who has been making games as a hobby for about 10 years by the time he started working on Balatro (www.playbalatro.com). The reason for his anonymity is based on his motivation for making games in the first place; to build a game that he would enjoy rather than a game he wanted to make money from. In an interview, talking about the game’s development, LocalThunk told Dan…

01 LOST IN RANDOM; THE ETERNAL DIE DEVELOPER / STORMTELLER GAMES GENRE / ACTION ROGUELITE Lost in Random: The Eternal Die throws you into a world where fate is quite literally in your hands. You take on the role of Queen Aleksandra, a fallen ruler seeking revenge, dided by Fortune, a dice-shaped companion who determines how battles play out. The game's combat blends real-time action with a deck -building twist, where every roll of the dice introduces new abilities and changes the fight in unpredictable ways. Lost in Random: The Eternal Die’s gothic world is dripping with atmosphere, with four distinct regions to explore, each packed with strange creatures and hidden secrets. 02 REIGNBREAKER DEVELOPER / STUDIO FIZBIN GENRE / HIGH-OCTANE ACTION ROGUELIKE Reignbreaker is a game that doesn’t hold your hand.…

DEVELOPER: 11 BIT STUDIOS GENRE: SURVIVAL PLATFORMS: PS5 / PC / XBOX SERIES X/S If you're a science fiction fan, you'll be no stranger to the genre's endLess possibilities. from spaceships and star maps to strange, otherworldly adventures. Still, the upcoming game. The Alters, by 11 Bit Studios promises to be an absolute curveball in the sci-fi gaming landscape. The trailer and demo paint a picture of a game that's quirky, bizarre, and delightfully strange—so much so that by the time you think you've seen it all, the game tosses yet another concept your way. But don't worry, this wild ride is more than just strange for the sake of it—The Alters is a sci-fi survivaL game with heart, packed with unexpected twists and a generous dose of weird. At…

Set against the backdrop of Japan in 1579 - a country divided and on the brink of unification under the ruthless Oda Nobunaga; Assassin's Creed Shadows is more than just a game - it's a window into history. In the midst of this turbulent period, a young shinobi, Naoe, embarks on a personal journey to fulfil an impossible promise. At the same time, Yasuke, the legendary African samurai, confronts the ghosts of his past. As you play, you'll unravel their intertwined stories, and see their destinies collide in a way that's as poetic as it is violent. The story is a love letter to the era, capturing the complexity and beauty of Japan's late Sengoku period. It Shines light on the political intrigue, power struggles, and breathtaking landscapes that make…

DEVELOPER: JUMP OVER THE AGE GENRE: ROLE-PLAYING GAME PLATFORMS: PC / NINTENDO SWITCH / PS5 / XBOX SERIES X/S Since booting up Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, it has occupied my every waking thought. If I had a cybernetic implant, this game would have installed itself directly into my neural pathways. And you know what? I wouLdn’t change a thing. I’m not even a sci-fi fan. But if anything is going to convert me to the church of space dystopias, it is this game. A game so good that it might be illegal in some sectors of the galaxy. Starward Vector is a mesmerising, tabletop-inspired RPG, blending the emotional depth of a graphic novel with mechanics that make every decision feel like it could make or break your very existence.…

DEVELOPER: KUNOS SIMULAZIONI GENRE: RACING SIM PLATFORMS: PC Assetto Corsa EVO that was released on the 16th of January 2025 as an early access game via Steam, is well priced at below R500 and comes from the respected Kunos Simulazioni software development studio in Italia. The early access release of Assetto Corsa Evo this year has received a fair amount of criticism, mainly because it was not ready for mass consumption. It requires a lot of patience and tinkering, it crashes PC's and only hardcore fans of the franchise will appreciate being part of this phase of the game’s early access development. So if you are a casual sim racer, this early access game might not be for you just yet, but that is par for the course with games…

DEVELOPER: HAZELIGHT STUDIOS GENRE: CO-OP / ACTION-ADVENTURE / PLATFORMER PLATFORMS: PC / PS5 / XBS X/S The feeling of playing Split Fiction is best described as if It Takes Two had a wildly ambitious baby, and that baby was raised on a steady diet of genre-bending mechanics, snappy dialogue, and relentless innovation. This isn't just a co-op game; it's an adrenaline-fueled trust exercise wrapped in an interactive buddy comedy, bursting at the seams with charm, wit, and moments of sheer gaming magic. GAMEPLAY THAT REINVENTS ITSELF EVERY FIVE MINUTES You know that feeling when a game introduces a brilliant new mechanic, and you wish it would stick around for a while? Split Fiction laughs in the face of that sentiment. Instead, it hands you a mind-blowing new ability, lets you…

When you think about esports, what comes to mind? Is it watching players like Faker, the epic Boston Major finals between C9 and Faze, or watching your favourite team rise to the top? That’s the magic of esports as we see it. It’s not just about the stages, the trophies, and the glory. It goes deeper than that. It’s about the hard work that makes all of that happen. None of the magic is possible without the teams behind the scenes that work tirelessly to bring it to life - from tournament organisers to production crews, to project managers, to designers, to social media and community managers and even accountants. All of these roles make up the ecosystem and are key to the success of esports. And the best part?…

We've been hinting at this for a while now and finally we can announce that NAG's Brawlrooms are now live. Unlike other casual game tournaments, Brawlrooms take things a step further with mini challenges in game that could earn you prizes, cash or game vouchers. The fan-favourite Get-the-Bird games take centre stage, starring PUBG Mobile and Fortnite. It's not just about claiming victory in solo or squad mode, your mission is to hunt down and eliminate the elusive chicken-suit-wearing NAG staffer to snag a bonus prize. Sounds easy? Think again. Gamers need to be careful; there's a team of highly skilled gamers standing by ready to defend the bird. You'll need wits, guts, and a pinch of luck to claim the glory. Don't miss your chance to join the fun—head…

The Blast Bounty Spring Tournament took place in January, and while it's been going for a few years already, this year, Blast shook things up by allowing lower ranked teams, seeded 17-32, to draft pick their counterparts. Why would they do this, you ask? Well, if you manage to defeat a much higher ranked seed than you, you score more points. It adds an extra element of strategic play to the usual Counter-Strike gaming we see once the teams are locked in. In the opening match, a 24th seed B8 took on 1st seed G2 in hopes of grabbing a big win, but they were just not good enough - with G2 securing a 2-1 overall win. G2 dropped the ball in the semifinals of the Blast Bounty Spring Tournament,…

HOW DOES IT WORK? To use MTN Cloudplay, Head over to the website (cloudplay.mtn.co.za) from the device you would like to game on. To register or log-in simply enter your MTN phone number and wait for the one-time pin to authenticate. Subscription is R79 per month and added to your phone account. To play any of the free-to-play games on MTN Cloudplay, simply click through to the game page and to play the game on your device. If the game requires a Steam of Epic license, you'll need to sign up to those platforms first if you don’t have an account. You can then buy a license for the game to play in MTN Cloudplay. MTN CLOUDPLAY APP FOR PC You can access MTN Cloudplay via any browser but if…

AI DUNGEON WEBSITE: play.aidungeon.io AI Dungeon is a text-based adventure game where an AI generates infinite stories based on kids' inputs. The game offers a wiLd, text-based adventure where your imagination drives the story. The AI generates responses that are often creative and surprising, but it can veer into absurdity or inconsistency. It's a chaotic sandbox game that is fun for kids with a big imagination. As this game can produce odd outputs at time, its best to play this one with your kids and show them how it's done. BLOB OPERA WEBSITE: experiments.withgoogle.com/blob-opera Blob Opera is a machine Learning experiment by David Li in collaboration with Google Arts and Culture. Opera singers use their voices as expressive and beautiful musical instruments. This experiment pays tribute to those voices, as…

The buzzword we've not been able to escape and won't be able to escape ever again is AI, and Nvidia is Currently the global leader in the hardware that runs the algorithms. So, how does this relate to gaming? Well, Nvidia's GeForce RTX 50 series is the first time we've seen such a heavy emphasis on AI calculations for gaming and other uses on a consumer graphics card. What makes this shift in direction so interesting is that Nvidia believes AI will play a big role in gaming when it comes to frame generation. In other words, software-based image enhancement with the use of AI will become the norm in hitting high frame rates. Now, this is not a bad thing, but we are seeing the birth of an incredible…

SENSOR PIXART PAW3212 PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS, ONE DPI BUTTON, FIVE DIRECTIONAL JOYSTICK DPI SCALE 500-6400 (11 PREDETERMINED STEPS) POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ SIZE AND WEIGHT 182 GRAMS PRICE R330 SUPPLIER ASBIS I can hear the “what on earth is that?!” thought radiating through the pages of this magazine as you read this sentence after Looking at the images of the Canyon Emistat GM-14 Yes, that is a verticaL mouse, and yes, it has been designed for gamers. At first, I was hesitant to try the mouse, but after a few hours of use, I was pLeasantLy surprised. he mouse is designed to provide Less wrist strain and more comfort with its vertical. grip. Which it does, in buckets. I thoroughly enjoyed using the mouse for work tasks in…

SENSOR PIXART PAW3327DBTWQU (ASSUMED) PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS DPI SCALE 400-6200 (5 PRE-DETERMINED STEPS) POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ SIZE AND WEIGHT 125 X 63 X 39MM | 72 GRAMS PRICE R599 SUPPLIER SYNTECH An interesting find from Xiaomi has got to be their Gaming Mouse Lite. A Lightweight RGB gaminginspired mouse from a brand known for their good quality consumer electronics. I was surprised to see that Xiaomi had branched out into the world of gaming but was happy to see them testing the waters. With my humidifier keeping the air perfectly moist and a camera or two watghing out for my online deliveries, I dove into a couple of games with the mouse. The Xiaomi Gaming Mouse Lite has a textured grey body on the outside. It's Long…

DID YOU KNOW / LIX in Roman Numerals adds up to 59, the weight of the Endorfy LIX Mouse. ⬊ SENSOR PIXART PAW3370 ⬊ PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS ⬊ DPI SCALE 50-19,000 (50 DPI INCREMENTS) ⬊ POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ ⬊ SIZE AND WEIGHT 126x65.7x38.5MM | 59 GRAMS ⬊ PRICE R757 ⬊ SUPPLIER VANGAURD PC Yet again, I am humbled by the new kid on the block, Endorfy. Their ultra-light gaming mouse, the LIX Plus, has shown me that sometimes I can like things I thought I never did—like that time my mom forced me to eat an olive. The LIX Plus comes in black or white colour pallets, features a paracord style 1.8m cable, Kalih switches, PTFE feet and a Pixart PAW3370. While this may sound like gobbledygook,…

MOTHERBOARD ASUS ROG STRIX X870-A CPU AMD RYZEN 7 9800X3D GPU ASUS TUF RTX 5080 CASE COUGAR FV270 RAM 64GB T-FORCE VULCAN DDR5-6000MHZ STORAGE 4TB T-FORCE CARDEA A440 LITE NVME SSD PSU 1000W ANTEC NEOECO PSU COOLING 360MM COUGAR POSEIDON ELITE ARGB + 9X COUGAR APOLAR ARGB FANS SUPPLIER VANGUARD PC WESBITE WWW.VANGUARDPC.CO.ZA PRICE R77,999 While I personally enjoy creating spreadsheets of every piece of PC equipment I could want for my PC, there are many people out there who would much prefer to have all this hard work done for them, so they can get down to business and just game. This is where prebuilt PCs come in. As the gaming community keeps growing, people who don't want to be held back by technical jargon and missing screws can…

DISPLAY 7-INCH; 60HZ; 400NITS RESOLUTION 1280 X 800 PIXELS CHIPSET 7 NM AMD APU; CPU ZEN 2, GPU: RDNA 2 RAM 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM STORAGE 256GB (WITH THE OPTION TO ADD A MICROSD) BATTERY 40WHR WEIGHT 669G PRICE R9,999 Let me begin with a bold statement: the Steam Deck LCD is like the Gravity Gun of handheld PCs powerful, versatile, and a game-changer. Valve has crafted a device that's practical and fun, rekindling my love for portable gaming. And yes, before you ask, it can run Portal. The Steam Deck LCD boasts a 7-inch, 800p LCD touchscreen, AMD's custom 7nm APU, 16GB of RAM, and a 40Wh battery. My Deck features 256GB of storage but a 64GB and 512GB version is also available. Sure, it's not 4K or 120Hz,…

OPERATING SYSTEM ANDROID 15, UI 7 CHIPSET QUALCOMM SM8750-AB SNAPDRAGON 8 ELITE (3 NM) GPU ADRENO 830 ROM 256GB RAM 12GB DISPLAY 6,9-INCHES 1440X3120 PIXELS CAMERA 200 MP, F/1.7, 24MM (WIDE) 10 MR F/2.4, 67MM (TELEPHOTO) 50 MR F/3.4, 111MM (PERISCOPE TELEPHOTO) VIDEO 8K@24/30FPS 4K@30/60/120FPS 1080P@30/60/120/240FPS BATTERY 5,000MAH PRICE R30,999 WHERE TO BUY WWW.SAMSUNG.COM/ZA Last year, NAG's Smartphone of the Year winner, the Galaxy S24 Ultra set the bar very high in terms of raw performance and camera capabilities on a smartphone. Now, in what feels like somewhat of a launch too soon, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has hit the market with a compelling new design aesthetic, even more performance under the hood and of course, more AI capabilities to play with. Samsung's latest flagship smartphone has a hard…

Check out the real-time comparison for yourself here. Value and Nvidia have officially released the highly anticipated Half-Life 2 RTH playable demo, giving gamers a first taste of the iconic shooter reimagined with full ray tracing more than 20 years after it first launched. The RTX demo was created with Nvidia RTX Remix and resulted in this fan-driven project to modernise the game with path-traced lighting, enhanced textures, and DLSS 3.5 support. The demo is available on Steam and showcases a portion of the beloved City 17, blending classic gameplay with cutting-edge visuals. Nvidia promises a transformative experience for both veterans and newcomers alike, ahead of the full mod's release later this year.…

If you want to know more about Winifred Phillips, you can find our interview with her here: Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord has out-stealthed the AAA giants to claim a shiny golden gramophone in a Grammy win worthy of a final boss battle. While Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, and Star Wars Outlaws flexed their blockbuster muscles, it was this classic RPG remake that rolled a Critical hit. The real hero? Composer Winifred Phillips, whose audio wizardry previously elevated God of War and Assassin’s Creed III. Winifred's Grammy win isn't just a personal victory; it's a game-changer for video game soundtracks, proving onbe and for all that pixelated dungeons deserve orchestras, too.…

Steam's Year in Review just dropped, and surprise, VaLve's money-printing machine is working just fine. It turns out that 1.7 million fresh-faced users who joined via 2023's biggest hits didn't just stick around; they collectively dropped a casual $93 million on games, DLC, and in-game goodies. That's about $55 each, or, as Sims fans call it, one expansion pack. Valve's takeaway? Stearn isn't just a storefront; it's a sticky web of social features and tempting discounts. Bonus trivia: 10,000 of those newbies even grabbed TCG Card Shop Simulator, proving that even niche indie titles can crush it on Steam… and that cardboard addiction knows no borders.…

Canton is a creative storyteller, deep thinker, and content creator who uses video to share his passions for gaming, tech, and pop culture. Who would have thought a tattooed gamer would make it in this world? Well played sir. Gaming can be misunderstood at times. It’s either too much screen time, not enough “real life” and the belief that it’s a platform to escape problems. But in reality, gaming’s not just about flashy graphics or the ‘stories’ that we get to experience. It’s about people. It’s about the way we come together, controllers in hand and adventures in front of us, to build something bigger and push the boundaries of exploration and wonder. Whether it’s a late-night raid with friends or a local tournament filled with all the nerves and…

With Battlefield 1 probably the last good Battlefield game released by EA back in 2016, the studio has decided to get the community more involved with the game before having another launch failure that they need to rescue with years' worth of updates. Thus, introducing Battlefield Labs, a community collaboration project where players will get involved from the pre-alpha stages of the game, providing feedback on incomplete pieces of the Battlefield puzzle before they make their way to the final product. You can head over to www.battlefield.com/labs to find out more information on how to sign up or join the Discord server, but it is worth noting that spots are extremely limited.…

If you think Snapdragon is just a phone chipset, you're in for a surprise. The company has just launched its third generation of a gaming platform used in handheld gaming devices. The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 features the powerful Qualcomm Adreno A33 GPU and Qualcomm Kryo 8-core CPU which is said to deliver a 30% improvement in CPU performance and a 28% boost In GPU performance compared to its previous generation chipsets. The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 is the first Snapdragon G Series platform to support Lumen, Unreal Engine 5's fully dynamic global illumination and reflections system, for Android handheld-dedicated gaming devices. The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 is said to deliver sustained QHD+ graphics performance at up to 144Hz. The company also promised improved battery life, Wi-Fi 7 and 5G…

DEVELOPER CLIFFTOP GAMES PUBLISHER RAW FURY GENRE POINT & CLICK RELEASE DATE TBA PLATFORMS PC Imagine gripping the handlebars of a narrative motorcycle roaring down roads paved with intrigue, sass, and pixel-perfect nostalgia. If you've ever taken that exhilarating ride, then you've likely crossed paths with Kathy Rain. And if you haven't? Well, you've been seriously missing out. Don't worry, though - Joel Staaf Hästö, Founder, CEO, Creative Director, and the mastermind behind Clifftop Games, is back with a sequel to put you firmly in the saddle: Kathy Rain 2: Soothsayer. We recently had the chance to sit down with Joel to uncover the story behind this much-anticipated follow-up. We delved into the origins of Soothsayer, his journey into game development, and what fans can expect froth Kathy's darker, grittier…

BEAT SABER Step into a neon-drenched arena, grab your glowing sabers, and start slicing! Beat Saber turns you into a rhythm-fuelled Jedi as you slash blocks to the beat of electrifying music. It’s the ultimate mix of high-energy fun, full-body movement, and a killer workout - all wrapped in VR immersion. OSU! Test your reflexes in Osu!, the fast-paced rhythm game where precision is everything. Click, slide, and tap your way through an endless library of community-created beat maps, all set to everything from J-pop to heavy metal. Easy to pick up, impossible to master perfect for rhythm warriors looking for a challenge. JUST DANCE Whether you're a dance floor legend or have two left feet, Just Dance gets everyone moving. Bust a move to chart-topping hits, follow vibrant on-screen…

Certain seeds can provide better card combinations, favourable boosts, and high-reward opportunities. Don’t hesitate to use high-scoring seeds to make your runs easier and more rewarding. You can even unlock a new novelty seed by entering your name in the text box. Here are our top 3 Balatro seeds to try: SEED: ALEEB This seed is a Reddit favourite and gives you a Spectral Dagger at the end of the very second Blind. This ups your Multiplier with every Joker you feed it after that. SEED: 11EVFRPQ This seed provides a sequence of fun cards to play, including Telescope, Invisible Joker, Director’s Cut, Perkeo, Retcon, Chicot, Observatory, Overstock, another Invisible Joker, Blank Voucher, and Antimatter. SEED: FM5KL6EU This seed provides access to powerful Jokers like Stuntman, Blueprint, and Brainstorm in…

Indie games are the unsung heroes of the gaming world. While the big studios are busy trying to outdo each other with ever-fancier graphics and endless sequels, indie developers are crafting experiences that are personal, unique, and downright refreshing. They're the games that don’t need to sell you on flashy trailers or celebrity voice actors - they make their impact in ways that feel more genuine and heart-driven. In this playlist, we're spotlighting a few of the indie gems that prove you don't need a massive budget or a triple-A name to create something unforgettable. So, grab your controller, and let's dive into the worLds of these hidden treasures. ARTWORK / The stunning artwork on this spread was created for the Dead Cells console storefront, illustrated by David Thor Fjalarsson.…

DEVELOPER: NAUGHTY DOG GENRE: ACTION-ADVENTURE GAME PLATFORMS: PLAYSTATION 5 It's rare for a game trailer to leave me utterly speechless. But as Naughty Dog unveiled Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet during The Gome Awards 2024, I sat frozen, goosebumps prickling my arms and a rush of butterflies in my stomach from sheer excitement over what I’d just witnessed. For a studio renowned for emotionally charged narratives and meticulously crafted gameplay, this felt… different. It felt cosmic. After years of reshaping gaming narratives with The Last of Us and Uncharted, Naughty Dog is shooting for the stars - literally. Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is a sci-fi epic brimming with mystery, rebellion, and retro-futuristic flair. Our protagonist is Jordan A. Mun, a Sharp-witted bounty hunter with reflexes to match and a spaceship that…

DEVELOPER: ROBUST GAMES GENRE: POINT-AND-CLICK MURDER MYSTERY PLATFORMS: PC / NINTENDO SWITCH Loco Motive isn't just a love letter to the classics; it's proof that point-and-click adventures are alive, well, and more surprising than ever. Boarding the Reuss Express in Loco Motive feels like stepping into a pixel-perfect postcard of 1930s glamour - but this train ride is far from ordinary. Packed with zany characters. clever puzzles, and enough laughs to rival a Poirot marathon. Loco Motive is a whodunit that reinvents the classic point-and-click formula with a delightful modern twist. From the moment the game starts, it's clear this isn't just a nostalgic homage to murder mysteries; it's a bold re-imagining of the genre. The adventure begins with Arthur Ackerman, an estate lawyer who loves bureaucracy almost as much…

DEVELOPER: ASPYR GENRE: ACTION-ADVENTURE PLATFORMER PLATFORMS: PC / NINTENDO SWITCH / PS4 / PS5 / XBONE / XBS X/S Lara Croft is back, bringing her most polygonal adventures with her. Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered dusts off the classics. The Last Revelation, Chronicles, and The Angel of Darkness, and gives them a new lease on life, but does it feel like a fresh archaeological discovery, or is this more like dusting off a relic best left in the past? A FACELIFT, BUT NOT A FULL MAKEOVER The remaster gives these titles a much-needed visual upgrade, smoothing out those legendary sharp angles while keeping the soul of the originals intact. Lara's once jagged edges are now delightfully polished, and environments look richer and more atmospheric. But don't expect a complete overhaul -…

INDIE CHARMERS: QUIRKY ADVENTURES YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH BEASTIEBALL Beastieball serves up a charming blend of turn-based strategy and playful sports action, making it a standout on handheld consoles. Assemble and train a team of adorable, personality-packed Beasties, then dive into thrilling volleyball-inspired battles where every move counts. The short, tactical matches are perfect for quick gaming sessions, offering an ideal pick-up-and-play experience. With vibrant, colourful visuals and responsive, intuitive controls, the game shines on smaller screens. Plus, local multiplayer support means you can enjoy fast-paced matches with friends anytime, anywhere, with no couch required. Beastieball delivers fun, strategy, and heart. DAVE THE DIVER Dave the Diver offers a captivating blend of adventure, management, and mystery, making it a perfect fit for handheld gaming. Spend your days exploring vibrant…

METTLESTATE LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE, NOW WITH BATTLE PASS Mettlestate has recently launched a brand-new website that introduces a new Battle Pass system as wall as a Battlegrounds feature designed for players and teams to complete against other gamers and showcase their skills. There's even a Grand Leaderboard to keep gamers competitive. THE PLATFORM BUILT FOR PROGRESSION With its new website Mettlestate has created a dynamic ecosystem designed to reward every player, not just the champions. Every match you play, every daily Login, and every competition you play in earns you XP. When you level up, you'll unlock exclusive rewards, cosmetic upgrades like profile banners, avatar frames, and even Mettallions - Mettlestate’s currency. But it's not just about flashy perks. The Battle Pass system is about progression. Whether you win or…

Mettlestate, in partnership with ASEM, is raising the bar for South African university esports with Varsity Esports. If you're a bonafide student at one of South Africa's USSA-registered universities and have a passion for Rocket League, Valorant, or EAFC 25, this is your chance to represent your university and compete for glory! Varsity Esports isn't just about competition, it's about legitimacy. By integrating esports into the university sports codes, Varsity Esports grants student gamers the same opportunities as traditional sports by giving them a stage to compete and fight for their share of the R90,000 prize pool. Showcase your university pride on a national stage as you compete against South Africa's top student teams in an intense esports showdown. Experience the thrill of live, inperson grand finals and take your…

The ultimate culmination of nerdom and tech has got to be Robot Wars. A league of engineers, tinkerers, and creatives who have banded together to build robots from the ground up in an attempt to destroy every other robot in sight. While robotics and coding can be a great hobby for adults, its also one of the best educational activities that kids can get involved with from an early age. This is where the World Robot Olympiad South Africa [WROSA] steps in, promoting coding, robotics, and technical skill development from as young as you'll allow your kids to leave Lego all over the floor. Spread across six different categories, and partnering with companies like Hands on Tech and Care For Education, the WROSA is committed to teaphing and developing these…

DOUBLE DRAGON (1987) FREE-TO-PLAY ON MTN CLOUDPLAY In Double Dragon, you play as Billy or Jimmy, two karate-kicking punks who are out to save Marian, Billy's girlfriend. This is a fighting game version of the popular arcade gamp from the 80's. Grab a friend, punch first, and see who reigns supreme. SÉBASTIEN LOEB RALLY EVO (2016) FREE-TO-PLAY ON MTN CLOUDPLAY Rev up for Sébastien Loeb Rally EVO, a 2016 rally racer with dirt in its DNA. You’re behind the wheel, playing as racing Legend Sébastien Loeb. The game features muddy tracks and hairpin turns. It's gritty, gorgeous, and unforgiving, perfect for racing fans of all skill Levels. RESIDENT EVIL 4 (2005) [REQUIRES STEAM LICENSE] R250 Resident Evil 4 is a game that redefined horror gaming. You play as Leon, a…

GOOGLE’S AI EXPERIMENTS WEBSITE: experiments.withgoogle.com Google’s AI Experiments is a collection of free, interactive AI projects by Google, showcasing how AI works through fun activities. WHY ITS GREAT: Simple experiments Like “Quick, Draw!” (AI guesses your doodles) or “Teachable Machine” (train AI with a webcam) make AI accessible. Best For curious Learners exploring AI concepts ages 7 and up WHAT KIDS CAN DO: Experiment with neural networks and see AI in action without needing to code. SCRATCH WEBSITE: scratch.mit.edu Scratch is a free, block-based coding platform developed by MIT where kids can create games and animations. WHY IT’S GREAT: It s beginner-friendly and integrates with AI tools Like Machine Learning for Kids. Best For coding novices aged 8 to16 WHAT KIDS CAN DO: Build simple games Like “Pong” or “Maze…

Let’s not kid ourselves,. we’re all a little put off by the high prices of gaming hardware in general, but graphics cards in particular have pushed us to reconsider our upgrade Choices when it comes to the latest generation hardware available. Intel took the opportunity to deliver something more affordable to gamers and if the Arc B580 graphics card is anything to go by, they have something big on their bands. The latest Intel Arc graphics cards use Intel’s' Xe2 HPG (High-Performance Gaming) GPU architecture and pitted against Nvidia's GeForce RTX 4060 series of cards, performs remarkably well in benchmarks and gaming performance. Of course, there are some caveats, particularly when it comes to ray tracing efficiency in some games, where Nvidia’s cards still push out more frames. On the…

SENSOR PIXART ATG-4090 (PMW3325) PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS, ONE SCROLL BUTTON DPI SCALE 100-8000 (100 DPI INCREMENTS) POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ SIZE AND WEIGHT MEDIUM TO LARGE HANDS | 75 GRAMS PRICE R360 SUPPLIER ASBIS The Lorgar Jetter is a great bangfor-buck gaming mouse. If you're just getting started or Looking for something that will give you a good gameplay experience without breaking the bank, this mouse is probably where I'd start. What I Love about the Lorgar brand is the overall experience that you get with the product. From the goodies inside the box. Like a keyring, extra PTFE skates and hand-warming fidget pouches, to throwing everything most gamers love in a product into that product. The Jetter 357 might not pack a top-of-the-line sensor, with its PMW3325…

SENSOR LASER SENSOR ENGINE PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS, ONE DPI BUTTON DPI SCALE 100-8200 (50 DPI INCREMENTS) POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ SIZE AND WEIGHT 123 X 65.6 X 39MM | 152 GRAMS PRICE R620 SUPPLIER TVR Genius has always been a brand aimed at the budget gamer. The Genius GX Gaming Scorpion M8-610 might be quite the mouthful, but the mouse is simple, comfortable and easy to use. It's relatively flat and short, fits most hand sizes, and can be used comfortably with any grip style. Weighing in at 152 grams does mean its a pretty hefty mouse and should only be picked up if that's your thing. The mouse wheel has a nice scroll to it, not too clicky and not too loose, and the clicks feel nice…

⬊ SENSOR PIXART 3360 SENSOR 250IPS ⬊ PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS TWO THUMB BUTTONS ⬊ DPI SCALE 100 - 12,000 (100 INCREMENT STEPS) ⬊ POLLING RATE 1000 MHZ ⬊ SIZE AND WEIGHT 128 X 66 X 37.5 MM | 68 GRAMS ⬊ PRICE R999 ⬊ SUPPLIER EVETECH Glorious has been around for a good few years, boasting solid gaming products at a price point all gamers can manage. Ironically, the Glorious Model-O ends up at the very top of our R1,000 budget, but that doesn't mean you should completely overtook it. The ModeL-O comes in four different flavours: black or white in a matte finish and black or white in a glossy finish. It may boil down to personal preference, which one you choose, but I had the Glossy Blaek in for…

MATERIAL BREATHABLE VELVET FABRIC ADJUSTABILITY 90°, 135° AND 160° ANGLES AND FOOTREST. EXTRAS FOUR SIDE POCKETS WEIGHT SUPPORT 135KG PRODUCT WEIGHT 24.6KG SUPPLIED BY VANGUARD PC WHERE TO BUY WWW.VANGUARDPC.CO.ZA PRICE R3,299 Let's not kid ourselves. Standing desks are for people who want an excuse to go to lunch every thirty minutes at work. Real gamers sit their butts down all day long, and the only time they get up from their seats is when they need to collect the food from the delivery man at their front gate. While gaming chairs have been a thing for years, it's only recently that couch-sitters have gotten a taste of what us desk-dwellers get to experience. A piece of furniture designed for comfort, designed for laziness, and designed for gamers. I've had…

PANEL IPS LED SIZE 27-inch RESOLUTION 2560 x 1440 pixels VESA MOUNT Yes RESPONSE TIME 1ms REFRESH RATE 180Hz SUPPLIED BY Syntech WHERE TO BUY www.takealot.co.za PRICE R5,299 Xiaomi has slowly been dominating the tech schene with products in almost every conceivable product category… here's looking at you Robot Vacuum. Now the company also has a line of gaming monitors. The Xiaomi G27Qi 2K is a sleek piece of machinery that is trying to ft in, rather than stand-out. Before turning it on, you will quickly notice the almost bezel-less design with a neat little chin at the bottom of the monitor. On the back, there are two DP 1.4 ports and two HDMI 2.0 ports for connecting almost every device on your desk. I like that I have the…

Gaming isn't just in a mid-life crisis, it's in a full-scale collapse, spiraling down the drain while corporate suits scramble to squeeze every last cent out of our nostalgia-fueled wallets. Once upon a time, gaming was about creativity, challenge, and actual fun. Those days are long gone. Now, it's nothing but remakes, rehashes, and ruthless monetisation designed to exploit players at every turn. THE NOSTALGIA SCAM At first, we were on board. Who wouldn't want to see Final Fantasy VII or Resident Evil 2 brought to life with modern graphics? But now? It's a joke. We've reached the point where games that haven't even aged out of their warranty period are getting “remastered” for no reason other than profit. The Last of Us Part II Remastered—seriously? A “remaster” for a…