GAME the UK’s largest entertainment retailer, announced today a slice of festive fun for all gamers, with Christmas Quest, a free to play web game that’s guaranteed to spread Holiday cheer, and bag some lucky gamers a Santa’s sack full of GAME Reward points!
Category: #gaming
Oakley Announces Fortnite Eyewear Collection
Witness a historic win as Oakley®’s distinctive aesthetics and game-changing style come together with global cultural phenomenon Fortnite for the first time, announcing a multi-year deal and dropping in hot with their first collection.
Launched in 2017, Fortnite is an always-evolving space where culture lives and players can create, watch and play alongside a global community with friends: think the best house party of all time, where everyone is welcome. If it’s positive energy, it’s Fortnite. This same positive energy is shared and supported by Oakley, whose commitment to create, improve and expand gaming technologies in the eyewear industry has continued to strengthen from the brand’s first steps into the gaming universe in 2020 with the introduction of Oakley Prizm Gaming lens technology.
The new collaboration begins with two eyewear designs, both proudly bearing the mark of Fortnite Battle Royale’s Victory Crown etched on the lens. Oakley’s Helux Fortnite, equipped with the brand’s proprietary Prizm Gaming™ 2.0 Lens Technology, assists players in reducing glare from OLED and LED screens while providing a sharp visual acuity during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, Oakley’s Hydra Fortnite provides the ultimate style loadout for any outdoor adventure, bearing golden Prizm™ 24k lens for victorious skies ahead.
Leading the pack is Chica, aka Maria Lopez, most recent signing of the Team Oakley roster. Chica is the first Latina LGBTQ+ creator to join Fortnite’s Icon Series. As a leader in the community, Oakley and Fortnite could not think of anyone better suited to inaugurate their new collaboration.
“I’m so excited that my favorite game and favorite glasses brand are now partnering”, said Chica. “In all my years of playing Fortnite and seeing all of the different collaborations, I’m so happy to be at the center of this one coming together. I can’t wait to share with my community!”
Starting November 29th, Oakley’s Fortnite collection will be available only on Oakley.com in initial limited quantity: get all the way to the collection for Storm survival.
This partnership between Fortnite and Oakley was facilitated by IMG.
New CS:GO Case: A Comprehensive Review and Item Analysis
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has long held its reign in the gaming world, offering not just intense combat scenarios but also an engaging economy of in-game items. The thrill of unlocking a rare item from a newly released case is a feeling known well to the CS:GO community. With the unveiling of the new CSGO case, expectations soared, riding on waves of rumors and sneak peeks. This article aims to dissect the contents of the fresh case, providing a well-rounded review and an insightful analysis of the items encased within.
Overview of the New CS:GO Case
The excitement in the air was palpable as the clock ticked down to the release of the new CS:GO case. As the case burst onto the scene, it brought with it a promise of fresh aesthetics and a renewed vigor in the weapon skin collection domain. The case, named “Vanguard Reprise,” was released on August 18, 2023, and quickly became the talk of the town. Its unique feature lies in the blend of retro and futuristic designs, giving a nostalgic nod while embracing modern-day graphics. This fusion has not only made the new CS:GO case a visual treat but also a topic of hearty discussions among enthusiasts.
Detailed Item Analysis
The Vanguard Reprise case unfolds a diverse array of items, each with a distinctive appeal. Here’s a meticulous breakdown of the offerings:
– Weapon Skins:
- Hyperbeast Redux: A reimagining of the classic Hyperbeast skin, it now sports a sleeker, more streamlined look with an infusion of neon accents.
- Retrograde: This skin takes a step back in time with its vintage design, yet holds a modern edge with its high-resolution textures.
– Stickers:
- Gamer’s Graffiti: A set of vibrant, playful stickers that resonate with the heart of every CS:GO player.
- Battle-Scarred Badges: These stickers embody the grit and valor of the battlefield, a perfect emblem for the seasoned warrior.
– Other Items:
- Victory Lap Glove Set: A pair of gloves adorned with the emblems of past champions, a tribute to the rich legacy of CS:GO.
Each item within the new CS:GO case carries a story, a tribute to the game’s glorious past while paving the way for an exciting future. The meticulous craftsmanship and the thought process behind each design reflect the creators’ profound understanding of the community’s evolving tastes.
Economic Impact
The release of the new CS:GO case has undeniably rippled through the in-game economy. Initially, the prices for the items within the Vanguard Reprise case soared as players rushed to obtain the fresh skins. The allure of being among the first to flaunt the new designs drove a spike in market demand, leading to a temporary inflation of prices.
As the initial hype simmered down, the market dynamics began to stabilize. The prices of the new CS:GO case items found a more sustainable level, aligning with the perceived value among the community. However, it’s noteworthy that some items, due to their rarity or popularity, maintained a higher price point, showcasing the economic intricacies within the CS:GO marketplace.
Trading has always been an integral aspect of CS:GO’s appeal, and the new case has added a fresh zest to this trade culture. The vibrant trading community swiftly embraced the new items, with trading forums and platforms bustling with activity. The economic interplay surrounding the new CS:GO case is a testament to the game’s enduring appeal and the continual evolution of its in-game economy.
Community Reception
The reception of the new CS:GO case has been a mixed bag of anticipation, excitement, and critiques. Social media platforms and gaming forums have been abuzz with discussions dissecting every aspect of the Vanguard Reprise case. The blend of retro and futuristic designs particularly sparked lively debates, showcasing the community’s diverse taste.
Professional players and streamers have also chimed in on the discussion, sharing their takes on the new CS:GO case. Their reviews, streamed live or shared on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, have further fueled the community’s interest. Their endorsement or critique significantly influences the perception and popularity of the new case items.
Moreover, various CS:GO communities have organized case opening events, fostering a sense of camaraderie among players. These events have not only provided a platform for players to share their excitement or disappointment but also strengthened the communal bond within the CS:GO ecosystem. The new CS:GO case has indeed contributed to enriching the vibrant culture surrounding the game.
Comparison to Previous Cases
The Vanguard Reprise case stands as a bridge between the nostalgic past and the promising future of CS:GO. When compared to previous cases, the new CS:GO case encapsulates a broader spectrum of design philosophy, embracing a modern approach while paying homage to classic designs.
The items within the new case hold a distinct aesthetic appeal, setting them apart from previous offerings. The level of detail and craftsmanship showcase a maturing design process, hinting at an exciting trajectory for future CS:GO cases. The comparison reflects the continuous effort by the developers to keep the game engaging and aesthetically appealing.
Moreover, the economic dynamics surrounding the new case show a pattern of healthy engagement and trading activity. Previous cases have also spurred economic activity, but the fresh designs and the well-balanced rarity of items in the new CS:GO case suggest a positive trend towards sustaining a lively in-game economy. The evolving nature of case offerings keeps the game fresh and continues to enthrall the vast community of CS:GO.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the new CS:GO case, Vanguard Reprise, has undoubtedly added a fresh layer to the rich tapestry of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive’s in-game economy and community engagement. Each item nestled within this case tells a story, bearing a blend of nostalgic allure and futuristic excitement. The meticulous design and thoughtfulness behind each item resonate with the community’s diverse taste, evoking a blend of excitement, critique, and thorough discussion.
The economic repercussions of the new CS:GO case have once again showcased the vibrant and dynamic marketplace inherent in the CS:GO ecosystem. It’s a living testament to the game’s enduring appeal and the significant role played by item trading and collecting. The fresh zest brought by the case to the trading scene reiterates the importance of continuous innovation in keeping the in-game economy lively and engaging.
In summation, the Vanguard Reprise case is more than just a collection of new skins and items. It’s a nod to the rich legacy of CS:GO, a stimulus to the thriving community discussions, and a promising glimpse into the evolving aesthetics and economic dynamics of the game. As the community delves into the treasures of the new CS:GO case, the journey of exploration and discussion it propels enriches the overall CS:GO experience, making the game continually engaging and rewarding.
Clear River Games Invite Gamers to Strap-In for an Intergalactic Adventure with Omega 6 The Video Game for Nintendo Switch
Clear River Games, a video game publisher specialising in classic and retro games and part of Embracer Freemode, today announced
Omega 6 The Video Game, a new adventure game with 16-Bit styling, based on the manga by former Nintendo art director, Takaya Imamura. Expected for release in 2024, Omega 6 The Video Game will debut on the show floor of the Tokyo Game Show 2023, courtesy of publishing partner, City Connection.
Based on the sci-fi comic first introduced in 2022 by France’s Omake Books, Omega 6 The Video Game features a brand new story, taking players on an intergalactic journey to locate a new home for the human race. With adventure around every turn, the path rarely runs smoothly for voyagers Thunder and Kyra, who, joined by their robot Prop and alien Flavo, are forced to embark on a dubious treasure hunt in the ruins of a strange planet to settle their mounting debts. Competing with fellow treasure hunters and armed with information that may help or hinder them, what treachery lies ahead of Thunder and Kyra on planet Imposter?
Having worked on a roster of critically acclaimed titles including the F-Zero, Zelda and Star Fox series, acclaimed art director Takaya Imamura will be leading the art direction and graphics for Omega 6 The Video Game, filled with beautiful pixel art and a cast of unique characters. Meanwhile Shinobu Amayake, also ex-Nintendo, will be drawing on her experience of composing music for NES and SNES titles, including Stunt Race FX, to create an original soundtrack for the game.
Commenting on the announcement of Omega 6 The Video Game, Ali Manzuri, Director of Publishing at Clear River Games said, “Takaya Imamura-San is responsible for creating some of the most recognisable and best loved characters in video game history and with Omega 6 The Video Game, he once again promises to take gamers on an unforgettable adventure. Based on the successful manga of the same name, we believe that Omega 6 The Video Game will be an unforgettable title for Switch gamers and we can’t wait to offer a first look at the 2023 Tokyo Game Show.”
Omega 6 The Video Game is due for release in 2024 for Nintendo Switch via developers Happymeal Inc and Pleocene, and publishing partners Clear River Games and City Connection.
Top online games continue to appeal to gaming audiences
Despite the undoubted innovation around technology in today’s world, the more casual and familiar products still appeal. For example, although we’re filled with new social media services with a strong video-based focus, people still enjoy the text-based nature of Twitter. Additionally, we can purchase sophisticated health trackers for our wrists, but some people still prefer keeping track of their health goals by themselves.
The same applies in the gaming sphere, with enhanced gaming opportunities now being accessible everywhere. Despite the emergence of the PlayStation 5 and virtual reality gaming, more casual products are still appealing to gaming audiences. One category of gaming that is still booming in the modern world is browser gaming, with these types of products representing an excellent alternative gaming escapade for people to sample. In fact, long before the emergence of the PS5 and VR headsets, browser games were popular, but there is now a plethora of worthwhile products to sample, whereas that wasn’t always necessarily the case.
Browser games come in all shapes and sizes, too. For instance, some products will test your strategic gameplay, while others offer all-action chaos as you aim to see off a wave of enemies. Whatever your preferred gaming sessions are, let’s take a look at some leading browser games that are continuing to entertain gamers in 2023.
War Brokers is extremely fun
While the graphics might not resemble those from a sophisticated PlayStation 5 release, such as Elden Ring, War Brokers is an FPS game with a range of appealing features. This danger-filled product has been impressing browser gamers for a while now, with a string of updates keeping the game fresh. Players can enjoy War Brokers in a range of variations too, from battle royale mode to classic 8v8 mode, with all options representing a seriously fun gaming adventure to embark on. Supported through popular browsers, such as Chrome, Edge and Safari, War Brokers is an extremely fun game to session for a few hours.
Candy-inspired Sweet Bonanza is a top casino title
Online casinos are very popular at the moment, especially given the diverse collection of games that are housed in one place. From poker and blackjack to baccarat and roulette, there are plenty of worthwhile products to sample at an online casino. Slot games are another go-to option for gamers, with the candy-inspired Sweet Bonanza slot particularly shining at the moment. One for people with a sweet tooth, this online slot has plenty of plus points, from the free spins round and the bright graphics to its fun theme and the entertainment the game provides. It’s fairly straightforward to grasp, too, and offers gamers with a genuinely worthwhile gaming experience to sample.
Abobo’s Big Adventure is a NES classic
If gun-filled and casino gaming propositions aren’t your thing, then a retro gaming experience might be. Abobo’s Big Adventure certainly offers that, with this classic NES product offering gamers with a nostalgic package that delivers a serious injection of entertainment. In the game, players play as Abobo from the Super Dragon franchise as they aim to advance as far as possible while having to see off some familiar gaming characters along the way, like Donkey Kong. This action RPG provides the violent, combat-focused offering that many gamers crave, while also featuring a collection of levels to beat.
A selection of other favourites
Although the aforementioned titles are certainly worth playing, they aren’t the only browser games that deserve some serious time and attention. With that in mind, other popular browser games include Street Skater, Wordle, Linerider, Nightpoint, Shell Shockers, TacticsCore.io, Sunset Bike Racer, Tetris, and Snail Bob.
Esports & Gaming Federation of Ireland and Northern Ireland Esports Join Together
A strategic alignment between Northern Ireland Esports and the Esports & Gaming Federation of Ireland signals a bright future for esports players on the island of Ireland. The new entity will operate under ‘Ireland Esports’ represented by a new combined logo.
Going forward both entities will now operate as one registered not-for-profit organisation. The combined all-Ireland entity, respecting all communities, has the common goal to empower talent and provide pathways to compete on the international stage. The alignment will share resources, facilitate education and develop domestic tournament initiatives over time.
Ireland Esports will be a member of the Global Esports Federation (GEF), the International Esports Federation (IeSF) and is committed to retain its existing close alignment with the British Esports Federation, Esports Scotland and Esports Wales.
Speaking at the announcement, Chair of Ireland Esports Steve Daly said, ‘The need to support pathways for esports athletes to compete on the international stage continues to evolve at pace. By adopting an all-Ireland approach, as has been seen in community and education initiatives as well as traditional sports and sporting federations, this strategic alignment is a significant step forward’.
‘Both entities have been successfully working together for the past 12 months and have achieved so much. Bringing them together in a more formal fashion will help accelerate opportunities for esports talent and implement professional structures successfully. Much of this hard work was seen earlier this summer as we travelled to the European Games Esports Championships to showcase the talent we have discovered on the island of Ireland’ said Michael Smyth, Ireland Esports board member, who has acted as Team Manager for both Esports NI and Ireland Esports over the last 12 months.
Athletes from Northern Ireland will have the option of participating for Ireland Esports or for the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team for international events, as is the case within the Olympic movement.
The Ireland Esports logo takes inspiration from the existing NI Esports stag logo. The Irish stag has been a symbol, dating back centuries in Irish folklore, representing strength, power, courage, and maturity. The stag is combined with a modern interpretation of Ireland’s symbolic Shamrock motif. The mission statement for the new entity is ‘To manage and enhance the performance of Team Ireland at international competitive tournaments whilst developing domestic competitive and educational pathways”
Red Bull launches state-of-the-art gaming hub at SETU Waterford
Red Bull has this week launched a state-of-the-art gaming hub at SETU Waterford to support the development of third-level gamers in Ireland. The Red Bull Gaming Hub will help SETU students of all abilities to develop their skill sets while also connecting them with leading partners in the global gaming industry.
The hub, the first of its kind at a third-level institute in Ireland, is located in SETU Waterford, the first third-level institute in Ireland to launch an esports scholarship. Synonymous with esports and gaming throughout the world, Red Bull has long since been a pioneer in the industry, supporting esport athletes and student gaming tournaments across the world.
This latest initiative represents Red Bull’s most significant esports venture in Ireland as the brand expands its footprint on the Irish gaming scene. The Hub will also host national gaming tournaments, interactive workshops and live stream events, while Irish gamers will also have the opportunity to qualify for global esports tournaments via events hosted in the Red Bull Gaming Hub.
This November for example, the Irish National Finals of the global VALORANT tournament, Red Bull Campus Clutch, will take place in the Hub. A team-based tournament open only to those in third-level education, Red Bull Campus Clutch sees over 200 national and regional tournaments take place across the globe this autumn. The best of the best advance to the World Finals, this year hosted in Istanbul, with a cash prize of €20,000 on offer.
Commenting as the hub was officially unveiled today, Katie Redmond SETU Sports Manager, Waterford Campus, said: “In 2020, SETU became the first third-level institute in Ireland to launch an esports scholarship and since then, the Esports Club has swiftly risen to prominence as one of the most active clubs at SETU. We are now delighted to further set the standard in the Irish third-level sector by opening our new Esports Gaming Hub. Our goal with this is to create a sports community where all students, current and future, who participate in Esports can receive the same support and facilities as all our sports teams. We would like to recognise that without the guidance and support of everyone at SETU, Esports Ireland, Collegiate Esports, and Red Bull, this vision would not have been possible.”
The hub is kitted out with a casual gaming area equipped with Xbox consoles, an immersive sound system and comfortable gaming bean bags. The facility also includes a chill-out area where students can bring their own laptops, connect to the high-speed network and work on their own creative projects with a cold can of Red Bull in hand. A unique custom-made 10-sided gaming table sits at the centre of the hub and allows for 5v5 gaming sessions on top-of-the-range gaming PCs.
Four outstanding partners have come on board, helping to bring the latest and greatest hardware to gamers. Intel NUC, SteelSeries, AGON by AOC and Backforce have worked with Red Bull to bring this unique gaming facility to life.
As PC Partner, Intel NUC, renowned for packing high-powered gaming rigs in small form factors, will support with their top-notch GamingPCs. SteelSeries, the worldwide leader in gaming and esports peripherals, is the official Peripheral brand of the Red Bull Gaming Hub and will equip students with award-winning gaming headsets, keyboards, and mice.
Backforce, the Gaming Chair partner, have provided ergonomic chairs that can boost performance and help maintain high-level gaming over long, competitive sessions, while the official Monitor Partner, AGON by AOC, provide high-performance gaming monitors within the space.
For more information about the Red Bull and Gaming, and the new Hub at SETU Waterford, visit www.RedBull.com/ie-en/gaming. To find out more about Red Bull Campus Clutch, and how to register, please visit Red Bull Ireland on Instagram & Tiktok @RedBullIre
Exogrip introduces their ground breaking gaming grip, designed to revolutionize the gaming experience
Exogrip, a gaming accessory startup, has unveiled a new gaming grip that conforms to gamers’ hands, providing enhanced comfort and control during gameplay. The innovative gaming grip is designed to effortlessly mould to the unique shape of each users’ hands, offering unparalleled comfort and control. Say goodbye to hand fatigue and cumbersome grips! Perfect for anyone who spends long hours gaming, the Exogrip assists players in achieving a more immersive and comfortable gaming experience.
The PS5 controller grip utilizes patented technology that transforms it into a malleable material when heated. This allows it to perfectly conform to the user’s hand making it comfortable to use. The 3-step process is simple – heat the grip, grip the controller, then game! The three easy steps make it both uncomplicated and accessible to gamers of all skill levels. Heat, Grip, Game. This grip is ideal for gamers of all hand sizes and playing styles.
With the Exogrip, gaming becomes seamless, allowing for extended playing time without discomfort. The Exogrip maximises control and accuracy, giving you the competitive edge that you are looking for.
Exogrip, a gaming accessory start-up, was created by 27-year-old Sam Coombes during Covid-19 lockdown. Coombes secured seed funding from his alma mater, the University of East Anglia, whilst continuing his full-time job as a digital marketing manager. The technology helps reduce hand and finger fatigue whilst gaming, improving performance and reducing the potential for injury.
Samuel Coombes, founder of Exogrip, said:
“Having been obsessed with gaming for most of my life, I noticed that the longer I spend doing it the more uncomfortable it got. Exogrip’s smart-grip solution is simple but effective and gives gamers just what they need – comfort and control, which adds up to a better gaming experience.
Most gamers will stop at nothing to unlock new gear, improve their times, work their way up the leader board and level up their gaming ability to beat their friends. This self-moulded grip gives them that all-important competitive edge.”
Exogrip, a gaming grip designed specifically to alleviate concerns about gamers hand health, is entering the market amidst growing concern over the potential health risks associated with prolonged gaming. Studies have linked extended periods of gaming with nerve damage and chronic conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. The Exogrip aims to address these issues by reducing strain on the hands during gameplay.
Sam Coombes adds: “Gamers are increasingly aware that their hobby can cause discomfort and pain, and they are looking for accessories that might help. Exogrip’s smart-grip solution has been designed with comfort in mind, and it could help to protect users from hand injuries in the future.”
Price and Availability:
Exogrip is available for £24.99 from https://www.exogrip.co.uk/products/exogrip
Why Online Casino Games Are So Popular in Hungary
Hungary, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is often associated with its traditional dances, thermal baths, and famous goulash. But in recent years, another facet of its society has risen to popularity – online casino gaming. This thriving industry, propelled by innovative technology and the ease of online payments, has become an integral part of Hungary’s contemporary entertainment scene. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the burgeoning success of online casinos in Hungary, paying special attention to the rise of platforms like Wazamba and the seamless utility of PayPal casino services.
The Digital Transformation
Evolution of Gaming Habits: The world is in the midst of a digital transformation, and Hungary is no exception. As the internet becomes more pervasive in everyday life, so does the way people engage in entertainment. Traditional casinos, while still present, have seen a decline in footfall as online counterparts offer the ease of play from the comfort of one’s home. With the proliferation of smartphones and mobile apps, casino enthusiasts can access their favorite games with just a few taps.
Wazamba – A Prime Example: Wazamba is a perfect illustration of this transformation. This online casino offers a plethora of games that cater to diverse interests and preferences. Its visually appealing interface, combined with high-quality graphics, provides a near-authentic casino experience. The vast array of game choices, from slots to table games, and the ease of transitioning between them, makes Wazamba a front-runner in the Hungarian online casino scene.
The Convenience of PayPal Casinos
Easy and Secure Transactions: One of the significant impediments to the initial adoption of online casinos was the distrust towards online financial transactions. There was a pervasive fear regarding the safety of funds and the potential for scams. Enter PayPal casino platforms. PayPal, known globally for its stringent security measures, became a beacon of trust for online casino enthusiasts in Hungary. When an online casino offers PayPal as a payment option, it inherently boosts its credibility.
Quick Deposits and Withdrawals: The beauty of using a PayPal casino is the speed and efficiency of transactions. Players can swiftly deposit funds and dive right into the game. The same goes for withdrawals. Winnings can be cashed out in a short time frame, sometimes within hours, making the entire online casino experience smoother and more satisfying.
Global Reach: Another advantage of PayPal casino platforms is the ease of cross-border transactions. Hungarian players are not just limited to local casinos. They can explore global platforms, participate in international tournaments, and engage with a broader community of players. This global reach has significantly expanded the gaming horizons for Hungarian enthusiasts.
Cultural Adaptation and Marketing Strategies
Cultural Tailoring: The success of online casinos in Hungary isn’t merely because of technology or payment methods; it’s also about cultural adaptation. Many online platforms curate their games to resonate with Hungarian history, myths, and legends. Such cultural tailoring makes these games more relatable and engaging for the local populace.
Effective Marketing: Online casinos invest significantly in marketing strategies tailored for the Hungarian audience. Whether it’s through lucrative bonuses, promotional offers, or engaging advertisements, these platforms have mastered the art of appealing to the Hungarian psyche.
In Conclusion
The soaring popularity of online casinos in Hungary is a confluence of technological advancements, trusted payment gateways, and keen cultural insights. Platforms like Wazamba have become household names, not just for their gaming offerings but for the holistic experience they provide. And with the effortless financial transactions facilitated by PayPal casino services, the future of online gaming in Hungary looks not just bright, but dazzling. As the industry continues to evolve, one can only anticipate even more innovations and excitement in the realm of online gaming in Hungary.
