Category: #gaming

EA SPORTS FC 25 TOTAL RUSH has arrived

Experience the fast-paced thrill of 5-a-side with TOTAL RUSH. Compete in brand new Football Ultimate Team™ Rush events, assembling different themed quartets throughout the week and earning rewards to take your club to the next level. Pick your player, team up with up to 3 friends, and play your role to prove who is the ultimate 5-a-side team in The World’s Game.

PICK YOUR PLAYER

Enjoy a new team of TOTAL RUSH players each week of the campaign, inspired by the dream 5-a-side squads of some of the top footballers in world football. Throughout the Total Rush campaign choose your new Rush player to take into fresh Rush Events with different requirements, where you and your friends can test yourselves with new 5-a-side squads.

PLAY YOUR ROLE

Every Rush side needs balance. Because in Rush, a simple pass or key tackle can be as valuable as a goal. TOTAL RUSH celebrates all the different roles a 5-a-side squad needs, from the agile Inside Forward to the tireless Falseback that links things together from defence.

As you pick your player for each match, remember the role that you’ll play in your team, finding the right balance between attack and defense that’ll lead to more wins, Rush points, and Football Ultimate Team Rewards for the whole squad.

FLASH RUSH EVENTS, OBJECTIVES, AND REWARDS

Enjoy a series of Flash Rush Events, each with unique squad requirements and an associated Objective to earn Player Picks and SP. Plus, compete for a specific Total Rush Objectives player each week by completing specific challenges in the various Flash Rush Events.

Look forward to a new Flash Rush Event every three days throughout the two-week campaign, starting on Saturday, October 12th, and win as a team to earn rewards for your club.

CELEBRATE ALEX MORGAN’S STORIED CAREER WITH AN EOAE SBC

Add an all-time great to your Football Ultimate Team squad with Alex Morgan’s End of an Era SBC. The US international announced her retirement from football after more than 200 international caps and a glittering career with clubs in the US, France, and England. Morgan will go down as one of the best in her generation, a two-time world champion with more than 100 international goals to her name and a trophy cabinet full of individual and club honours.

CONTINUE THE WORLD TOUR

Look out for new World Tour: Spain players releasing each week via Objectives during Total Rush.

THE INSIDE FORWARD

Every Rush side needs pace, directness, goals. That’s your Inside Forward. You don’t even have to look up to know that they’re flying forward, stretching the lines and sparking the counter at every opportunity. Starting wide but moving central to finish chances, they dominate the wing and live life at a sprint. Think Lauren James, a wide dynamo who tears down the flank to write her name on the scoresheet. Total Rush Lauren James will be added to the Football Ultimate Team pool of items as part of Team 1.

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EA SPORTS NHL 25 WITH ICE-Q NOW AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) sets a new standard in hockey authenticity with EA SPORTS™ NHL® 25, now available worldwide on PlayStation®5 and Xbox Series X|S. The new ICE-Q gameplay system gives players the time and space to control every inch of the ice, bringing a whole new level of hockey intelligence to EA SPORTS NHL. Plus, a revamped Franchise Mode, overhauled presentation with the all-new Grudge Match system as well as the integration of SAPIEN Technology improving character likenesses, NHL 25 is the truest representation of the sport.

“EA SPORTS NHL 25 brings an unparalleled level of intelligence to the franchise with the introduction of ICE-Q,” said Chris Haluke, Senior Producer for EA SPORTS NHL. “Whether it’s creating time and space in gameplay with ICE-Q or leading the front office with the revamped Franchise Mode, this year’s game offers a truly immersive NHL experience that will appeal to veterans of the game and Chel rookies alike.”

EA SPORTS NHL 25 launches today with an array of exciting new features:

  • ICE-Q is True Hockey Intelligence: Built on a new logic-driven animation system, ICE-Q responds to contextual events on the ice with unprecedented authenticity. Next-Gen Vision Control, Empowered AI and Reactive Actions provide the foundation of Chel’s gameplay overhaul, while Skill-Based One Timers create authentic gameplay tension as offensive excitement and expectation mix with defensive concern and anticipation. Learn more about the all new features in the deep dive trailer here and the blog post here.

  • Revamped Franchise Mode: Franchise Mode gets a revamp in NHL 25. Starting with the Franchise hub, streamlined navigation gives players access to new, relevant and easy-to-digest information. Contract clauses and trade protection now add to the authenticity, giving players insight into what happens during negotiations. Plus, new conversation functions enhance negotiations, making promises, waivers, and counters a faster, more intuitive process. Learn more about the revamped Franchise Mode in the deep dive trailer here and the blog post here.

  • Immersive Presentation Updates: Hockey is not only built different in NHL 25, it looks different. The new Grudge Match System tracks the history of matchups between teams across online and offline modes. In-game characters have received an impressive visual overhaul with the introduction of SAPIEN Technology, and the new Infinite Camera System completely revamps replays with increased variety and authenticity of angles. The Hypestage introduces a universal 3D platform that produces dynamic and immersive storytelling moments during key games and live events throughout the year. Learn more about the improved presentation with the blog post here.

  • Hockey Ultimate Team Innovations – The new Wildcard Mode implements unique rulesets per competition cycle — like different salary cap systems, having a specific number of players from a particular team or nation, and more. Plus, with the new HUT XP Progression System, all of the XP earned in Squad Battles, Rivals and Wild Card are combined into a single progression path. Learn more about the improvements to HUT in the deep dive trailer here and the blog post here.

  • New WOC Live Events Structure – An updated World of Chel Live Event Structure and schedule gives players a new way to take the ice. A new playlist structure keeps game mode selections feeling fresh, along with new competitive tournaments and rewards, metas, and design-driven themes, and the ability to view all current and past offerings in WOC.

These features and more are available now in EA SPORTS NHL 25, with more post-launch content to be announced soon.

Developed by EA Vancouver, EA SPORTS NHL 25 is rated E10+ and is now available globally on PlayStation®5 and Xbox Series X|S. Also available now, the EA SPORTS NHL 25 Deluxe Edition includes 4600 NHL Points, HUT NHL Player Pack, HUT “Hockey is Family” Objectives Choice Pack (x2, 82 OVR), HUT Cover Athlete Choice Pack (85 OVR, 1 of 8), HUT Wildcard Starter Choice Pack (84 OVR, 1 of 6), WOC Battle Pass XP Boost (x2), and Exclusive WOC Player Set. For more information on EA SPORTS NHL, visit https://www.ea.com/games/nhl/nhl-25.

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EA SPORTS REVEALS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SOUNDTRACK FOR EA SPORTS FC 25

Today, Electronic Arts Inc released the official soundtrack of EA SPORTS FC™ 25, an international, genre-bending selection of music. This years soundtrack will feature 117 songs from a global list of artists, sure to satisfy players’ appetite for musical discovery while they play FC 25.

Since the soundtrack was first introduced in 1997, it has become a cultural moment in the music calendar and has given a platform to many upcoming artists whose careers have taken off after featuring. Continuing the momentum from last year’s soundtrack that explored a wealth of international artists, FC 25’s playlist spotlights an eclectic range of genres including Elyanna’s experimental Arabic-Latin pop fusion; South African Moonchild Sanelly’s ‘future ghetto funk’; and Afro-Colombian group Kombilesa Mi’s traditional Palanque music and urban rap synthesis.

The track list also showcases a range of international tastemakers, from Disclosure and Ice Spice to Kasabian, in addition to superstar artists including two-time Oscar-winner Billie Eilish; Prince of Reggaeton J Balvin; British super producer Fred again..; Charli xcx, whose critically-acclaimed album ‘Brat’ inspired a cultural personality trend this summer; up and coming Japanese drill rapper JUMADIBA; unparalleled Afrobeat artist Obongjayar; Spanish all-female rockers Hinds; and celebrated jungle revivalist Nia Archives. A brand-new song from FC-superfan Polish rapper MATA, who featured EA SPORTS FC in his music video, will also be on the soundtrack.

“FC 25 is a global celebration of new music that erases borders, embraces multiple genres, and delivers several surprises,” said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive and President of Music for Electronic Arts. “The EA Music team has spent nearly a year curating an epic soundtrack that will define the sound of the coming season and elevate the spirit of the game like never before.”

The FC 25 soundtrack includes several unreleased songs anticipated to drop later this year, including a track by Glastonbury headliners and the sixth most awarded band ever, Coldplay. Two unreleased tracks from Delfina Dib – an Argentine artist whose music reflects her diverse Lebanese and Spanish-Italian roots – will also feature in FC 25. Other unreleased songs will come from Mercury Prize-nominated FKA Twigs; and platinum-selling, Welsh rockers, Catfish and the Bottlemen.

  • Reggaeton legend J Balvin said “It feels incredible to be featured in such an iconic game. Having my music be part of the FC 25 soundtrack and sharing this honor with so many other talented global artists is something I’ll never forget. I can’t wait to experience it all when I play.”
  • Delfina Dib, fresh from last year’s release of her debut album ‘Directo al Cora’ said “There are so many amazing global artists on the FC 25 soundtrack and it’s truly incredible that two of my songs were included this year. Every year the tracklist becomes more and more international and to feature alongside some of my heroes is a dream come true.”

EA SPORTS has worked with Spotify, the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, for three years to bring the soundtrack to life and give fans even more access to their favourite FC tracks. The collaboration between EA SPORTS and Spotify aims to bring fans the best of football and music year after year, game after game. Listen to the full EA SPORTS FC 25 soundtrack on Spotify here, and across most streaming platforms.

EA SPORTS FC 25 will be available to play on September 27 with early access through the Ultimate Edition available as of September 20. Pre-orders are now available for EA SPORTS FC™ 25, which will launch on PlayStation® 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch™.

SteelSeries & Blizzard Unite with World of Warcraft collection

SteelSeries, the original esports brand that fuses gaming and culture, and Blizzard Entertainment, creator of the genre-leading game World of Warcraft®, today unveiled a new collection of limited-edition gaming gear that aims to recapture the heart of players from when they first set foot in Azeroth in World of Warcraft’s upcoming tenth expansion, The War Within™.

With inspiration drawn from the World of Warcraft universe, the limited-edition collection brings the world of Azeroth to life through the multi-award-winning Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Headset, Aerox 9 Wireless Gaming Mouse, QcK XXL Mousepad, SteelSeries Artisan Keycap and Booster Packs consisting of Headband & Speaker Plates. As a bonus, players who purchase select items from the limited-edition collection will receive in-game cosmetic items for World of Warcraft.

 

  • Arctis Nova 7 Wireless | World of Warcraft Edition – Explore beneath the surface of Azeroth and hear it with astonishing detail through the World of Warcraft Edition Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Headset. Engineered with the Nova Acoustic System, featuring HiFi audio, supercharged by the Sonar Audio Software Suite, and delivering 360° Spatial Audio, the Nova 7 lets gamers hear the finite details that others don’t. Gamers can amplify the sounds of the expansive overworld and listen to two audio streams at once with simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, easily swapping between PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Switch with USB-C. Stay in the action with a 38-hour battery and a fast charge function for six hours of use after just a 15-minute charge. Players will experience noise-free communications as AI algorithms guide the ClearCast Gen 2 mic to clean up both incoming and outgoing audio in team chat. The ComfortMax System delivers 4 points of adjustability and breathable AirWeave Memory Foam cushions for marathon sessions on any platform. The Arctis Nova 7 World of Warcraft Edition includes an in-game item, the Grinning Reaver mount.

 

  • Aerox 9 Wireless | World of Warcraft Edition – The World of Warcraft Edition Aerox 9 Wireless Gaming Mouse is designed to support the most seasoned player in exploring the subterranean worlds filled with hidden wonders and lurking perils to fight against the gathering arachnid forces. Players can instantly access their library of abilities with 18 programmable buttons and the TrueMove Air Sensor delivers unrivaled precision and accuracy. The award-winning MMO wireless mouse weighs in at 99g while providing up to 180 hours of battery life for marathon sessions. Using Quantum 2.0 Wireless and Bluetooth, gamers can play with untethered ultralight freedom on multiple devices while safeguarding against spills with AquaBarrier™ technology. The Aerox 9 World of Warcraft Edition includes an in-game item, the Lil’Flameo pet.

 

  • QcK XXL | World of Warcraft Edition – The World of Warcraft Edition QcK XXL Mousepad serves as a gateway to the world of Azeroth. The pinnacle of surface performance, innovation, and style, the QcK mousepad has been engineered with exclusive micro-woven cloth for maximum control and optimized for low and high CPI tracking movements. and a 900 mm x 400 mm x 2 mm playing surface provides players with maximum control. The non-slip rubber base eliminates unwanted movement during your crucial moment in a raid. SteelSeries gaming mousepads are engineered for all levels of play and are highly recommended by esports pros. The QcK XXL World of Warcraft Edition includes an in-game item, the Battle Turtle mount.

 

  • Artisan Keycap | World of Warcraft Edition – Customization is crucial, especially when it comes to keyboards. The stunning World of Warcraft Edition SteelSeries Artisan keycap is inspired by the Sword of Sargeras. Each individual key cap has been resin-casted and hand-painted to depict the Sword which is a monument to the Burning Legion’s defeat that pierces the crust of Azeroth. There is only a limited, individually numbered supply of these artifacts in the world and you can find them on SteelSeries.com. The Artisan Keycap World of Warcraft Edition includes an in-game item, the Battle Turtle mount.

 

  • Booster Packs of Headband & Speaker Plates | World of Warcraft Edition – Declare your allegiance to your faction with the World of Warcraft Edition Booster Pack consisting of either Alliance or Horde Edition Speaker Plates and Headband Sets for SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro and Arctis Nova 7 series headsets. Gamers can proudly display their faction pride with a touch of personal flair. The World of Warcraft Edition Booster Packs include an in-game item, the Battle Turtle mount.

 

As part of the World of Warcraft x SteelSeries collaboration, SteelSeries has integrated video clipping software Moments within World of Warcraft so you can clip, edit, and share your own Leeroy Jenkins-esque highlights. SteelSeries has also worked with Blizzard to create an official EQ preset that allows players to experience audio at a new level cap within the game utilizing the SteelSeries Sonar Audio Software Suite. Sonar is industry-leading audio software that delivers powerful sound customization through the first pro-grade parametric EQ for gamers. Specifically designed to turbocharge any headset for gaming and provide a limitless ability to control sound across games, immersive spatial audio, team chat, and the microphone, Sonar allows gamers to adjust every individual frequency and hear the sounds that matter the most.

In World of Warcraft: The War Within, players will adventure deep beneath the surface of Azeroth to face an ancient civilization rising to power deep beneath the surface of the planet, as heroes of both the Alliance and Horde are bombarded with visions—some are of the Light, while others see an alternate, darker fate. While players embark on the first chapter of The Worldsoul Saga and journey to a new level cap of 80, they will encounter new zones, dungeons, raids, and more including the new surface-level continent of Khaz Algar, a new Earthen playable allied race, hero talents, Delves and Warbands.

The World of Warcraft x SteelSeries collection will be available September 24, 2024 at SteelSeries.com and gear.Blizzard.com for the following MSRPs:

 

  • Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Headset | World of Warcraft Edition – NA: $199.99 | EMEA: €219.99 | APAC: $219.99
  • Aerox 9 Wireless Gaming Mouse | World of Warcraft Edition – NA: $159.99 | EMEA: €169.99 | APAC: $169.99
  • QcK XXL Mousepad | World of Warcraft Edition – NA: $39.99 | EMEA: €45.99 | APAC: $45.99
  • SteelSeries Artisan Kepcap | World of Warcraft Edition – NA: $79.99 | EMEA: €89.99 | APAC: $89.99​ 
  • SteelSeries Headband & Speaker Plates | World of Warcraft Edition – NA: $39.99 | EMEA: €39.99 | APAC: $39.99

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First Look – EasySMX M15 Android and iPhone Game controller

EasySMX M15 is designed for Android and iPhone 15 and up series mobile gamers. Building on feedback from the previous models- the M05 and M10, the grip design has been upgraded to be more ergonomic, so even mobile gamers can enjoy a gaming console-level experience. With upgraded the buttons to fully mechanical tactile buttons and integrated dual Hall effect joysticks and triggers. Additionally enhanced the vibration with a high-speed micro-motor and added two back buttons. The button response, vibration intensity, and grip comfort have all been significantly improved to deliver a superior gaming experience.

Main Features:

Full-mechanical tactile buttons:

The M15 features fully mechanical tactile buttons, with a lifespan of up to 5 million clicks. With faster response times and a more comfortable tactile feel, the M15 provides an unparalleled level of consistency and enhances the gaming experience.

More Precision But No Drift

Equipped with a Quadruple Hall Effect Sensor System (Dual Joysticks & Dual Triggers), the M15 boasts superior durability.Not just featuring Hall triggers, the M15 also comes with a rapid trigger function that reduces the cooldown time of game operations, making your gaming experience smoother.

Universal Connectivity & Compatibility

M15 is compatible with Android and iPhone 15 and up series under direct USB-C connection and wired Bluetooth . The M15 features a flexible plug design, allowing the plug angle to be adjusted, which helps protect your phone. Compatible with the latest iOS and Android games to games on different cloud gaming platforms (Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Remote, GeForce NOW and more)

2 Back Paddles and Higher Vibration

The back paddles can be remapped or programmed, allowing gamers to perform additional actions. Upgraded with a high-speed micro vibration motor, the M15 delivers stronger and more refined vibrations. It offers six adjustable levels.( available on streaming games)

Stay tuned for a full hands on review soon here on techbuzzireland and YouTube

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EA SPORTS UFC 5 Kicks-Off Fight Week with UFC 304 in Manchester, England

EA SPORTS UFC 5 is kicking off Fight Week in celebration of the highly anticipated UFC 304 event in Manchester, England, by featuring four new Alter Egos (Michael Bisping, Darren Till, Alexander Gustafsson, and Khabib Nurmagomedov).

The following Four new rostered fighters will also be added to UFC 5 alongside new Fight Week challenges, Pick Ems, and vanity content, which is now live:

UFC 304 Fight Week starts in UFC 5. Through the Fight Pick’ems option, players can select who they think will win each of the Main Card fights. Choosing the winner and method for each fight will unlock in-game prizes. Completing the in-game Punch Card will reward players with in-game unlockables, including one of the newly featured Alter Egos (Alexander Gustafsson from UFC 165).

UFC 304 takes place at Co-Op Live in Manchester, England on Saturday, July 27, and will feature a welterweight title bout between Leon Edwards (C WW) and Belal Muhammad (#2 WW). With their first match ending controversially, this is a rematch over two years in the making. There will also be the Heavyweight Interim title clash between Tom Aspinall (#1 HW) and Curtis Blaydes (#4 HW) and a marquee main card match-up between Paddy Pimblett and King Green (#15 LW). There are four fan-favourite fighters from England on this weekend’s main card in Manchester. Full card details can be found here.

There is a new Community Vote feature that is in-game from today, the start of UFC 304 Fight Week. The first in-game Community Vote will allow players to vote for up to four Alter Egos from a list of ten fighters chosen by our community. The four Alter Egos with the highest total votes will be chosen with the aim of incorporating them in a future 2024 game update. Check out the details and get updates on the Community Vote feature here.

Also dropped new gameplay updates and adjustments in a recent patch. More information on the content updates can be found here.

EA SPORTS UFC 5 is available now worldwide for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. To download UFC 5 assets for UFC 304, visit here or go to EAPressPortal.com. For more details on UFC 5, visit http://x.ea.com/ufc5/home. 

Ground-breaking live stage show asks audience to ‘game’ their way through performance in real time – 7 Deadly Sins in The Civic Theatre on July 12th and 13th

Imagine a stage-show where you don’t just immerse yourself in the story, enjoy the music and marvel at the spectacle, but you also get to actively ‘game’ your way through the performance and influence what happens on stage?

‘7 Deadly Sins’ is the world’s first hybrid eGaming and storytelling stage show, and it will premier a number of development performances in The Civic Theatre, Tallaght on the 12th and 13th of July. Utilising ground-breaking mapping technology, created in partnership with Maynooth University, the audience use a simple app on their mobile phone to become ‘active’ participants, creating a seamless interaction between the audience and performers in real-time. So instead of being told to ‘put your phone away’ when you enter the theatre, this performance will be asking you to get your phone out and be a part of the show!

This steam-punk rock opera, created by Irish playwright and technologist Niall Austin and directed by Prof. David Bassuk, re-imagines Dante Alighieri’s iconic 14th century masterpiece ‘Inferno’ for the 21st century. The 7 Deadly Sins are positioned as digital or social media channels such as:

  • Photo and video sharing apps represent Envy
  • Dating apps represent Lust
  • Cryptocurrency represents Greed

While the performance is taking place live on stage, audience members can engage in combat with an array of virtual demons, zombies and dragons through an app available on IOS and Android. Spectators are encouraged to hold up their phones during the show and partake in the performance by using the app which features augmented reality gaming technology contextually designed around the on-stage production.

Starring opera sensation Claudia Boyle, rising hip-hop star Fortune Igiebor and singer and actress Aoife Spratt, the performance also features a host of other, never before seen interactive features.

Niall Austin, the show’s creator, says: “7 Deadly Sins not only brings a traditional piece of literature into the 21st century, it is a dynamic experience which offers the audience a new frontier in live entertainment – where technology, narrative and performance marry together create an unforgettable stage show. Live entertainment is constantly evolving with many young people now attending concerts and shows to take photos and videos. I am looking forward to enhancing audience engagement and creating an incredible experience for attendees.”

Donal Shiels, Artistic Director at The Civic, says: “It is an exciting time in the world of theatre where technology can be incorporated into stage productions to create a new and interesting experience for audience members. We are delighted to be bringing a world first to The Civic Theatre as we remain committed to evolving with the ever changing technology landscape. Following the incredible success of Niall’s last two shows – PL-AI and Deep Fake – we are looking forward to seeing the interaction between the audience and the performers.”

 7 Deadly Sins takes place in The Civic Theatre, Tallaght on Friday 12th July and Saturday 13th July at 7:30pm

 As a ‘development performance, tickets are available for €12 here: https://www.civictheatre.ie/whats-on/7-deadly-sins/

84% of gamers have an interest in pursuing a third level degree course in game development and design in Ireland

84% of gamers say they would consider taking a course in game development and design at higher education level, according to a new survey from GamerFest, Ireland’s leading gaming and esports festival. In addition, 9 in 10 say they think it is possible to have a gaming career in Ireland.

Of the 84% who said they would be interested in third level courses, nearly 4 in 10 (38%) currently work in another industry, but would have pursued a career in the gaming industry if the option was available when they were entering third level education. A further 46% are currently considering taking a course in game development and design.

The majority (96%) of those surveyed also feel that the government should increase investment and expenditure in the Irish gaming industry beyond the current level. 9 in 10 people agree that gaming companies should be able to avail of tax relief measures to operate in Ireland. While Ireland’s tax credits for the sector are competitive internationally, those surveyed said that they would like to see robust credits introduced.

Interestingly, one third of those surveyed were unaware that Ireland is home to a developing major games industry – a number of major gaming companies have offices in Ireland including Riot Games, producers of the popular shooter game Valorant, and Electronic Arts, who create The Sims series and EAFC (formerly known as FIFA).

Gaming is a hobby for all ages with nearly 8 in 10 playing for fun

Gaming is a key hobby for many across a range of ages, with the biggest group of gamers surveyed stating they were between the ages 35-44 (35%). 77% of gamers are playing for fun, while one in ten surveyed say they engage in gaming for social purposes and to meet others with similar interests. A quarter of game players surveyed spend over 10 hours per week playing video games.

When it comes to spending money on gaming, 40% of gamers are outlaying more than €50 a month, with 1 in 10 spending over €100 per month on their hobby. More than half of those who spend money on gaming each month spend a quarter of their monthly budget on in-game purchases, such as Fortnite Skins or V-Bucks, to enhance their gameplay.

Gaming fans and content creators come together for GamerFest Dublin this May

Gamers and leading content creators in the gaming sector will come together this May 25th and 26th in the RDS, Dublin for the 7th year of GamerFest, which has welcomed over 25,000 visitors since its inception from across Ireland. GamerFest has firmly established itself as a diverse, community-led gaming event for everyone with a passion for gaming, from causal gamers and families right through to professional esports players and teams.

Nearly 80% (78%) of those surveyed believe live gaming events, like GamerFest, are extremely important in supporting the games industry.

The epic GamerFest weekend is a celebration of all things gaming and will feature the latest gaming releases, virtual reality experiences, esports, cosplay competitions and gaming challenges. There will also be a host of special guests including top Twitch and YouTube creators including Shauna Davitt, The Gara Show, Ryan Mar and Jack Igoe, with more special guest announcements to come. There will also be opportunities to learn about careers and third level courses in the gaming industry from leading companies and colleges.

In addition to last year’s super events across the Play, Compete, Connect and Discover zones, this May will see both Call of Duty Zone and Helldivers II playable at the festival. There’ll also be the exhilarating Formula One Fastest Lap competition in the Currys Sim Racing Zone, and for those looking to get their groove on, a Just Dance Challenge will take place across the weekend.

GamerFest CEO Stuart Dempsey says: “GamerFest continues to go from strength to strength, and we couldn’t be more excited to return to the RDS this May. There will be something for everyone, from casual gamers right through to budding esports stars.

“GamerFest is delighted to have a number of colleges and industry experts to chat about educational and career options in the sector at this year’s event. We see so many visitors to GamerFest seeking information on careers in the games industry so it’s a really exciting time for the games industry

“As showcased by our survey, the gaming industry in Ireland is a sector with enormous potential, and we are only scratching the surface in terms of the economic growth and job creation that it can bring to Ireland.

“It’s fantastic that the IDA is currently working to strengthen the financial support for the gaming industry through stronger tax credit initiatives, and we believe this can lead to a whole range of benefits for the wider Irish economy.”

Lexip Follows the Way of the Ninja, Bringing its Stunning Range of Licensed Naruto Shippuden Accessories to UK Gamers

Lexip a leading manufacturer of high-end PC and console accessories, part of the Pixminds group, announced today the UK launch of a new range of Naruto Shippuden licensed accessories, designed in collaboration with Tsume Art, a world-renowned design agency specialising in the creation of quality products inspired by the world of manga, anime and video games.
The new licensed range of Naruto Shippuden accessories, marks Lexip’s first foray into the UK hardware scene, after long being established as a leading brand of choice by gamers across Europe and North America since 2018. Known for thoughtful design, state-of-the-art features, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Lexip is pleased to be bringing a full range of products to UK gamers, starting with the Naruto Shippuden range which marries their signature quality with stunning artwork led by Tsume Art.
The internationally acclaimed anime series, Naruto Shippuden, is regarded as an epic masterpiece, spanning 500 episodes, and telling the story of teenage ninja Naruto Uzemaki and his allies, as he follows his quest to become the greatest ninja in the land.
Bringing key characters of the Naruto Shippuden saga to life in stunning detail, the new Lexip range includes twelve jaw-dropping products grouped into three distinct character ranges from the show: Sasuke, Kakashi and Madara.
With Lexip’s legendary attention to detail, the licensed range is a shining example of how to do justice to a beloved franchise, with each product lovingly crafted by renowned creator Cyril Marchiol from Tsume Art. The razor-sharp details of shuriken’s, armour, horns, and wings which feature so heavily in the TV show, come to life via the unique transparent materials featured in the product’s engineering, with intricate design details highlighted via the reflections found in ambient light. Fans of the show will be certain to find each product loaded with Easter eggs from the show, and which any self-respecting anime fan is sure to adore.
Each of the three character ranges consist of four distinct products, a low-friction Mouse Pad, a state-of-the art Optical Mouse, an advanced Wireless Bluetooth® Headset and an ergonomic Wireless Controller. Features of each product in the range are as follows:
Naruto Shippuden Wireless Controller (Sasuke / Kakashi / Madara):
The Naruto Shippuden Wireless Controller has been expertly crafted, bringing the stunning details of the anime series to life. Key elements of scenes taken directly from the show feature via an ultra-detailed sculpture extending over the entire front of the controller. Featuring a rock solid 2.4GHz wireless connection, the controller includes four programmable buttons, dual vibration feedback and a 600mAh lithium-ion polymer battery. With the prestigious German Design Awards recognising the Wireless Controller ergonomics as the “best in the industry”, the new Lexip x Tsume series is the hardware of choice by the LxP Valiant team, French Valorant™ champions and third in the world in Fortnite™.
Naruto Shippuden Mouse Pad (Sasuke / Kakashi / Madara):
The licensed Naruto Shippuden Mouse Pad features a strikingly broody design paying homage to the show. With unique stylization, detailed artwork, power button and even the colour of its illuminated outline themed to appeal to fans, the Mouse Pad has been designed to stand up to the most rigorous of gaming sessions, thanks to the rigid structure and micro-textured surface, engineered to maximise precision and comfort. Even better when used in combination with the Naruto Shippuden Mouse whose patented ceramic feet have been designed in conjunction with the Mouse Pad surface.
Naruto Shippuden Optical Mouse (Sasuke / Kakashi / Madara):
Engineered for sustained gaming sessions, the Naruto Shippuden Optical Mouse range features beautifully sculptured designs of weapons wielded by each hero used at crucial moments in the show. The Optical Mouse integrates two flagship Lexip technologies: extremely comfortable ceramic feet facilitating fast and precise movement, and a thumb joystick allowing for easy in-game navigation, fully configurable via dedicated free software. With 12 programmable actions and a powerful PAW3327 optical sensor which can be adjusted from 100 to 12,000 DPI, the Optical Mouse has been designed to dominate and is even better when used in combination with the Mouse Pad, as the surface has been designed in conjunction with the Optical Mouse’s ceramic gliding feet.
Naruto Shippuden Wireless Bluetooth Headset (Sasuke / Kakashi / Madara):
The Naruto Shippuden Wireless Bluetooth Headset features intricately detailed artwork, engravings and sculptures taken directly from scenes of the show and features them on the reinforced metal frame, microphone and the interior seams of the headband. Utilizing powerful wireless Bluetooth technology, the headset includes a fully detachable microphone, and its high-quality sound profile is fully configurable via a dedicated equalizer.
Lionel Chataignier, President of Lexip (Pixminds group), commented, “We believe that Lexip products offer best-in-class design and value in the competitive PC and console hardware sector. We design our products in-house with a relentless commitment to excellence through our quality customer service and supporting our gaming community. We’re thrilled to be bringing our range of Lexip products to the UK, and the licensed Naruto Shippuden range serves as an ideal introduction to Lexip for the discerning UK audience.”

The new licensed Lexip Naruto Shippuden Range is available now from Amazon and coming soon to other leading retailers

For more information and full product specifications of the Lexip range of licensed Naruto Shippuden products, please visit: https://lexip.co