CHERRY shortlisted at PCR Awards 2025

CHERRY has been shortlisted for Gaming Peripherals Vendor of the Year at the PCR Awards 2025 for its XTRFY range of performance-focused keyboards, mice and headsets.

The Gaming Peripherals Vendor of the Year category honours brands that have had a significant impact on gaming through innovation, performance and market presence.

The ceremony will take place on 24th September at The Brewery in London, bringing together leading names within the tech industry.

The CHERRY XTRFY line combines CHERRY’s expertise in mechanical switch engineering with XTRFY’s esports-driven innovation. The brand continues to redefine what gaming gear can be, from collaborating with professional players to co-developing enthusiast-grade technology.

In the past year, CHERRY has launched a range of products, including the MX Northern Lights Switch, the IK Magnetic Switch, the H3 Wireless Headset, the MX 8.3 TKL Wireless Keyboard and the KW 300 and 300W MX keyboards, which are CHERRY’s first hot-swappable models designed for productivity users.

CHERRY XTRFY products are now available both online and in Curry’s stores across the UK.

Recent collaborations with gaming enthusiasts have reinforced CHERRY XTRFY’s presence within competitive gaming. The brand’s first wireless gaming headset was recently endorsed by Counter-Strike legend Emil “HeatoN” Christensen, who praised it as “perfect for FPS games” with standout directional audio.

As the brand expands its presence across retail and esports, the PCR Awards recognition highlights CHERRY XTRFY’s role in shaping the future of gaming peripherals.

Robin Bithrey, Channel Marketing Manager at CHERRY Europe said: “We’re proud to be shortlisted for this award. At CHERRY, we’re gamers ourselves, and that passion fuels everything we create. From working closely with eSports pros to obsessing over the tiniest design details, our mission is to help every player get the most out of their game. Recognition like this tells us we’re on the right path.”

Why Mahjong Is the Perfect Game for Puzzle Fans

There are few other titles in the ever-expanding world of puzzle games that can boast of a history as rich and an appeal as enduring as that of Mahjong. This century-old Chinese game is about more than just matching tiles: it’s a dynamic test of logic, memory, and strategy. And if you’re a fan of puzzles, brainteasers, or generally mentally engaging gameplay, Mahjong offers an experience that is often underrated and deeply satisfying.

Available Anytime, Anywhere

While many still associate it with physical tiles and traditional play circles, Mahjong has quickly become a modern favorite in online circles, especially with gamers seeking something more than just an average app-based puzzle. Digital versions are making the game more accessible than ever, offering the perfect opportunity for beginners to discover and explore what makes it so captivating. Whether you are learning the ropes or looking for expert matches, visit Mahjong365 to join a vibrant community of players from all over the world.

Online platforms like this have brought Mahjong into the spotlight of multiplayer puzzle gaming, especially among the younger fans that are looking for new challenges beyond Sudoku and Wordle. Having the option to play quick casual matches, but also to join in global competitions, is very alluring, as well as solo play modes where you can maintain the depth but without the need to gather around a table.

All these things are more than just a convenience—they are part of a growing trend where beloved classic games get reimagined and adapted for the digital space. Mahjong and similar card-type all-time favorites like solitaire are now allowing puzzle lovers who were not so into gaming to find an easy and inclusive way to join the fun and sharpen their skills anytime, anywhere.

Brain Workout Disguised as a Game

Mahjong is more than just fun, it’s a mental enrichment. Studies have shown that regular play of strategy-based games can improve memory retention and pattern recognition, helping us recognize order in seemingly chaotic environments. Some researchers go as far as claiming it can delay cognitive decline in senior adults. 

One of the perks of Mahjong is that it demands that its players think several steps ahead. Moving carefully, managing limited resources, and shifting layouts in an adaptable way make every round a mental workout. Having a bit of randomness in the mix makes every game exciting as well.

If you love puzzles, all of the important aspects are included here:

  • Pattern matching with a visual logic component
  • Strategic planning as you have to anticipate the upcoming tiles
  • Dynamic challenges coming your way with every reshuffle
  • Progressive difficulty depending on the complexity of each layout

There are many single-solution puzzles out there, but Mahjong provides literally endless replay value. Whether you’re aiming for a faster time to beat, a higher score to chase, or a new layout to master, the challenges are many and variable. Digital versions offer even more of them, including achievements which give players both reasons to return and badges of honor to brag with.

The Social Dimension

Although many puzzle games are solitary, Mahjong is inherently social in its roots. This traditional game of interaction and competition is played in groups, and that spirit lives on through online multiplayer and virtual communities that connect gamers across the world. 

What’s more, the social engagement can grow into a personal challenge with competitive play becoming more widespread. Major leagues and global tournaments are becoming increasingly popular. At the same time, the game is gaining more traction in the worlds of streaming and online play as well. 

Calm, Focused, and Irresistibly Engaging

The best puzzle games are the ones that keep you coming back for another round. And one of the most addictive and unique traits of Mahjong is its rhythm. Unlike frantic mobile games, more similar to arcades, or the apps built for endless scrolling, Mahjong creates a calming atmosphere that is still very engaging. The focus a player needs to scan the board and make decisions is deeply immersive, but without the sensory overload that many other games have.

Pro puzzle players enjoy playing games that help them unwind while offering some mental stimulation. Mahjong is a game that perfectly strikes that balance. It rewards playing at a slower, thoughtful pace while keeping attention to detail and long-term strategy over rash and quick reactions. Whether you are a veteran strategist or a beginner at this kind of puzzle, the variety of combinations and possible setups, as well as the diversity of opponents, is sure to keep you engaged for a very long time.