SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2 Review

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2 Wireless expands on their multi-platform headset and polishes it to near perfection. While the core design remains the same, the most significant upgrades—namely the massive battery life boost and the addition of the mobile companion app—make this mid-to-high-tier offering a serious contender for the best all-around wireless gaming headset and being able to switch quickly if you have more than one device or console.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2 Wireless headset might be new but the brand is seen as a staple in the gaming arena on conosle or mobile phone in which both was tested over the last while and it is a great headset for both gaming and listening to music or streaming videos etc.

You can optimize game audio for every system with the new SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 for PC, PlayStation, or Xbox  Windows and mobile, the addition of real-time audio control via the Arctis App with presets for the Top-3 games on the planet (Call of Duty, GTA, Fortnite), plus a boosted battery with +40% more juice, makes this master of dual-audio multitasking a “must-have.”

Whether it’s gaming on the go, listening to Spotify or watching Netflix while commuting on the train or bus, taking a Zoom call and needing to tune out the noise in a shared apartment, workspace, or coffee shop, at the home office with furry kids running around, in the gym or on a walk, playing some Call of Duty or Animal Crossing at home, and so much more….

The Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2 series ushers in the next generation of audio power for those living a gaming lifestyle. I am one that uses headphones for everything and even for music and podcasts which I listen to most these headphones are quite remarkable with the audio quality I have to say with great bass and of course the flexibility of the EQ on board and I would not swap them over from gaming to another headset if using they are that good with the audio which is a win.

Featuring 200+ expertly crafted audio preset profiles for immersive gaming, music and entertainment via the Arctis App, an improved 54-hour battery life with optimized fast charging, Neodymium Magnetic Speaker Drivers for outstanding spatial audio, and simultaneous mixable 2.4GHz & Bluetooth audio, the Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2 stands out as the ultimate choice for multi-platform gaming and multitasking thanks to seamless compatibility, a premium build, and powerful controls.

The only annoyance I had was updating these when I took them out of the box requiring two cables and the dongle which should be a thing of the past and should be done via the app like most headphones and earbuds but other than that these are a must have for the true gamers out there and even for those who like great audio listening to music or streaming movies.

 

Mobile App Arctis

 

Features

  • Presets for Call of Duty, Fortnite, and more to hear footsteps better in game, controlled via the mobile app
  • Mix game & mobile audio for simultaneous listening using 2.4GHz and Bluetooth
  • 50+ hour battery with optimized fast charging
  • Neodymium Magnetic Drivers are custom-designed to produce crystal clear highs, pinpoint mids, and deep bass
  • USB-C plug & play for Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Switch, Mac, VR, handhelds, mobile, and more
  • Premium steel construction with elastic support band for comfort and durability

BUY

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How Emerging Tech Trends Are Reshaping Online Gaming

Online gaming, including video gaming, casual gaming, and online casino gaming, has evolved tremendously in recent years. Technological innovations are playing a crucial role in this transformation, enhancing how players experience and interact with games. 

Whether you’re diving into a fast-paced multiplayer match, exploring a complex video game world, or enjoying the thrill of a casino game from the comfort of your home, emerging tech trends are making gaming more immersive, interactive, and accessible than ever before. From virtual reality (VR) to artificial intelligence (AI), these technologies are reshaping the online gaming landscape, and they promise to bring even more exciting developments in the near future. 

Here’s a look at how these tech trends are revolutionising online gaming across different gaming genres.

5G Technology

5G technology is already making significant strides in revolutionising the online gaming industry, offering faster speeds and lower latency than ever before. For video gaming, this means players can enjoy smoother gameplay with almost no lag, even in high-speed, multiplayer games. The reduced latency and faster response times that come with 5G are enhancing the competitiveness and immersion of online games, making it feel as though players are truly inside the action. In casual gaming, the introduction of 5G allows players to enjoy more graphically intense mobile games without the issues of buffering or interruptions. Games that were once difficult to run smoothly on mobile devices can now be played effortlessly, improving the overall experience for gamers on the go.

For online casino gaming, 5G technology is proving to be a game-changer. Casino games, whether it’s live dealer games or traditional table games, require high-speed, uninterrupted connections for a seamless experience. The enhanced speed and stability of 5G ensure that players can enjoy smoother, more immersive gameplay with minimal delays or lag. Bettors can play games like slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette on domestic sites, which abide by local GamStop rules, or they can visit international sites for gambling not on GamStop. In recent years, international platforms have boomed in popularity as these sites offer flexibility, ease of access, and huge game libraries filled with traditional games, niche titles and live dealer games. 

5G is particularly beneficial for live dealer games, where real-time interaction with the dealer and other participants is key to the experience. With 5G, online casino players can engage with their favourite games in a way that feels more authentic, as if they were at a physical casino. This increased performance transforms the online gaming experience, making it more fluid and enjoyable for all types of casino enthusiasts.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are two of the most exciting innovations currently reshaping online gaming. These technologies are particularly impactful in video gaming and online casino experiences, where immersion is key.

VR, through headsets like Oculus Rift, PlayStation VR, and HTC Vive, enables players to step into entirely new virtual worlds. Whether you’re battling it out in a VR multiplayer match or exploring a rich, narrative-driven environment, VR transforms gaming from a passive experience to an active one. In online casino gaming, VR is taking things even further by offering virtual casinos where players can interact with live dealers and fellow players in a fully immersive 3d environment. For casual gaming, VR can turn everyday games into thrilling adventures, making simple puzzles or interactive games far more engaging.

AR, which blends digital elements into the real world, has also started making waves in the gaming community. Games like Pokémon Go have shown how AR can bring the game into the physical world, allowing players to interact with virtual objects and characters in their surroundings. While AR is still in the early stages, the potential for casual gaming, video gaming, and even online casinos to integrate AR into their experiences is vast, offering more interactive and dynamic gameplay.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another technology that’s changing the landscape of online gaming. In the past, AI was used mainly to control NPCs (non-player characters) in games. However, AI is now being integrated into many more aspects of gaming, from personalising player experiences to enhancing interactions in online casinos.

In video gaming, AI has become a tool for creating smarter, more responsive enemies, improving both the challenge and immersion of the game. It’s also used in multiplayer games like Fortnite, League of Legends, or Call of Duty to optimise matchmaking, ensuring players are paired with others of similar skill levels, resulting in more competitive and enjoyable games. In casual gaming, AI can help adapt the difficulty level to match a player’s skill, ensuring a more engaging experience.

For online casino gaming, AI plays a crucial role in improving the overall user experience. From personalising game recommendations based on a player’s past preferences to providing smarter fraud detection systems, AI is making online casinos safer and more efficient. In addition, AI-driven chatbots are enhancing customer service, offering players quick and reliable assistance when needed.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency are increasingly becoming essential components in the world of online gaming. Blockchain offers a secure and transparent way to handle transactions, which is especially useful in online casinos. With the rise of blockchain, players can ensure that their winnings are legitimate and that the games they play are fair, as the technology allows for public verification of each transaction.

Cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin and Ethereum, is another game-changer for online gaming. Many online casinos have begun accepting cryptocurrencies for deposits and withdrawals, providing players with faster transactions and lower fees compared to traditional banking methods. For casual gaming and video gaming, cryptocurrency is also being integrated into digital asset ownership, allowing players to buy, sell, and trade in-game items, skins, or even characters securely on the blockchain.

Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming is another major development that is reshaping the online gaming world. Unlike traditional gaming, where the power to run games is needed on the player’s device, cloud gaming relies on remote servers to handle the processing. This allows players to stream their games directly from the cloud, which means they don’t need expensive hardware to play graphically intensive titles.

For video gaming enthusiasts, cloud gaming has opened up a world of possibilities. Services like Google Stadia, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Nvidia GeForce Now allow players to access games on a range of devices, from smartphones to laptops, without the need for a high-performance gaming PC or console. For casual gaming, this means that players can access a wider range of games without worrying about storage limitations or hardware compatibility.

In online casinos, cloud gaming allows for a seamless experience where players can access their favourite casino games from virtually any device, without the need for downloads or software installations. Cloud technology also ensures that games run smoothly, with minimal lag or interruptions, offering a more stable and enjoyable experience.

 

Best free PC games of all time

PC gaming hasn’t been waning in popularity for many years now. Even many once-exclusive Xbox and PlayStation games have found their way to PC owners, where they are now available for free. From Fortnite to Sims, take a look at the best free PC games of all time.

League of Legends

Inspired by Dota, League of Legends (LoL) is one of the best free PC games for tactical geniuses. Developed by Riot Games, this 2009 multiplayer online game features a battle arena. As one of the most-played video games in the world, League of Legends is played by 100 million people every month. The goal of the game is to outplay your opponents alongside your team – break the enemy’s team before they break yours. 

Sweepstake casinos

Completely different from LoL, sweepstake casinos are a perfect option for players who love casino games. According to Mike Epifani of Yay Sweepstakes, these casinos let you play for real cash prizes while taking advantage of numerous promotions. Sweepstake casinos are free to play, as all players have to do is create an account, choose the slot or table game they want to play, and hope to embark on a lucky streak. 

The Sims 4

As far as iconic PC games go, The Sims 4 is hard to beat. It has been the quintessential game since the turn of the millennium, counting 85 million players worldwide as of March 2024. There’s something incredibly appealing about the chance to design your own Sim, build his/her dream house from scratch, and establish their professional and family life. Love, life, death – it’s all a part of this iconic game that became free for PC players after EA announced its plans for The Sims 5.

Fortnite

If you are an avid gamer, you are probably already thoroughly familiar with Fortnite – a game that’s played by more than 250 million people worldwide. This epic battle royale game is popular among Twitch streamers, various sports stars, and even celebrities. Whether you are playing it religiously every single night after work or logging in once a week, Fortnite always has a new challenge ready for you to tackle – a perk that has turned this game into a staple in every gamer’s personal collection of titles. 

Counter-Strike 2

Unlike the original version of the game, Counter-Strike 2 is thoroughly dedicated to realism, which is in stark contrast with many other military games. Players might not get to enjoy impressive power-ups and different perks that can alter the outcome of the game, but they do get to rely on their luck and skills while on the mission. Whether staying in or going on a vacation and bringing your PC as a gadget that’s a travel essential, Counter-Strike 2 will keep you locked in for hours at a time. 

D&D Online

There aren’t many multiplayer fantasy games that are as famous as Dungeons & Dragons, which are now available in an online format. You can now set foot in the Forgotten Realms and the land of Eberron from the comfort of your own home – and for free. Whether you want to assume the role of a thief or a spellcaster, D&D Online allows you to let your imagination go wild and fight dragons and demons until you come out on top. 

PUBG: Battlegrounds

With a strong community of players who keep coming back, PUBG: Battlegrounds is a game that has at one point surpassed even the legendary Dota in terms of popularity. Its peak might have happened in 2017, but the game reached new heights in 2022 when it was moved to the free-to-play model. The PUBG’s battlefield might be brimming with players, but only one can be pronounced the winner – with a bit of luck and strategy, you could be the chosen one. 

World of Warships

Finishing things off with an ocean-based military simulation game, World of Warships is a simple yet captivating game. It’s deep, approachable, and engaging – everything you could ever want from a game of its genre. Control your warship and choose from over 600 intricately modeled historical ships, all leading to the ultimate action-strategy naval experience. 

 

10 Most Popular Games in Ireland to Try in 2025

Gaming in Ireland is thriving, with the Irish gaming market valued at €637 million in revenue by the end of 2024 and projected to hit €813 million by 2027. Over half of Irish adults (more than 50%) actively play online games, a figure that continues to grow each year. Ireland is also embracing the global eSports boom, with the industry estimated to reach $16.6 billion in 2024. 

The most popular games, from massive open-world titles to cutting-edge multiplayer experiences, dominate streaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch, where Fortnite alone garners over 13 million weekly viewer hours.

Ireland has a strong gaming culture, influenced by both local sports games and global blockbusters. From the first Gaelic football console game in nearly two decades to globally anticipated RPGs, these titles reflect the diversity and creativity driving Ireland’s gaming scene. 

1. Fortnite

A global powerhouse, Fortnite remains a must-play title in Ireland. Its constant updates, collaborative events, and diverse gameplay modes keep it fresh for millions of players. With over 13 million weekly viewer hours on Twitch and YouTube, it’s clear that this battle royale game is here to stay in 2025.

2. Apex Legends

Renowned for its fast-paced, squad-based battles, Apex Legends is a top choice among Irish eSports players. The game’s seamless combination of character-driven gameplay and intense multiplayer competition draws millions globally and remains a favourite in Ireland.

3. Gonzo’s Quest Megaways

This game continues the tradition of the original Gonzo’s Quest by adding the Megaways feature, which greatly boosts the opportunities to win with each spin. Players can enjoy up to 117,649 ways to win, with cascading reels that allow for multiple wins from a single spin. The game features an adventurous theme where players help Gonzo search for treasure.

With iGaming becoming an integral part of the gaming landscape, platforms showcasing the best online casinos provide a reliable way for players to explore diverse games while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Casino expert Elias Malo curates this list to highlight safe UK casinos. By offering tools and guides, players can enjoy the thrill of gaming responsibly, balancing entertainment with security.

4. EA Sports FC™ 25

As the successor to the FIFA series, EA Sports FC™ 25 combines lifelike football mechanics with expansive career and multiplayer modes. Irish football fans will appreciate the inclusion of international leagues and the realistic gameplay that keeps the franchise at the top of sports gaming.

5. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III

For fans of first-person shooters, Modern Warfare III offers a mix of gripping campaigns and competitive online modes. With its tactical gameplay and realistic graphics, the game continues to dominate Irish gaming communities.

6. Silent Hill 2 Remake

Horror enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the Silent Hill 2 Remake. Known for its atmospheric storytelling, the revamped version of this classic psychological horror game is set to become a top pick for Irish gamers in 2025.

7. Gaelic Football 24

The long-awaited Gaelic Football 24, developed by Belfast-based Buck Eejit Games, marks the return of Ireland’s national sport to modern gaming consoles. The game features Ireland’s 32 county teams, a creation suite for customising clubs, and advanced motion-capture technology for realistic gameplay. This is a historic release for Irish gaming fans eager to relive GAA’s excitement digitally.

8. Mega Moolah

Produced by Micro Gaming, Mega Moolah is known as one of the most famous progressive jackpot slots, Mega Moolah has made headlines for its record-breaking payouts. The game features 25 paylines and a safari theme with various animal symbols. Players aim to land matching symbols across these paylines while also triggering the jackpot feature.

9. Dragon’s Dogma 2

Fans of RPGs will appreciate the deep combat mechanics and storytelling in Dragon’s Dogma 2. With customisable characters and a sprawling fantasy world, this sequel offers countless hours of adventure.

10. Minecraft

The ever-popular Minecraft remains a staple among Irish gamers of all ages. Its endless creativity and regular updates ensure it stays relevant, providing both casual and dedicated players with limitless opportunities for exploration.

Gaming Trends in 2025

Not only has gaming become a cornerstone of Ireland’s entertainment culture but 35% of gamers in Ireland say that online gaming is good for their mental health

Mobile gaming continues to lead the charge in terms of gaming trends, probably because it offers easy accessibility and on-the-go engagement for players of all ages. eSports has also gained traction, with competitive gaming tournaments captivating audiences and fostering a sense of community among players. 

Slot games featuring Irish mythology and folklore are a big hit among local players. Titles inspired by leprechauns, Celtic legends, and St. Patrick’s Day themes resonate with Irish gamers and provide a fun cultural connection.

With 34% of UK gamers using mobile devices as their primary gaming platform, mobile iGaming is on the rise. The convenience of accessing slot games and poker tournaments on the go is drawing in a new generation of Irish players.

The growing eSports market influences iGaming trends, with some platforms introducing betting opportunities in major tournaments. Irish players interested in competitive gaming are increasingly engaging with this crossover.

LEGO Fortnite introduces Islands with two new LEGO themed experiences

The LEGO Group has today launched two all-new play experiences within Fortnite, for fans of all ages to discover and enjoy together.

LEGO Raft Survival’ and ‘LEGO Obby Fun’ are the first in a new series of play experiences within Fortnite, dubbed LEGO Islands, a series of kid and family-friendly LEGO-themed experiences that have been created using Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN). They are available to play now within Fortnite, and are borne from favourite childhood memories of some of the LEGO Group’s own developers!

LEGO Raft Survival’ combines frenetic multiplayer problem solving with the classic LEGO Pirates theme, as the infamous Blackbeard challenges players and their friends to stay afloat on a raft in unfriendly waters! Players must survive on their raft against the cannon balls shot from the Barracuda Ship, collecting wood and treasures as resources and to build more rafts.

LEGO Obby Fun’ is the first official LEGO-themed obstacle course on Fortnite, that offers a LEGO-inspired take on climbing and problem solving through brick-built platforms designed by actual LEGO designers and packed with hot dogs, pizzas, unicorns and much more.

Players are spawned randomly on a section of course inspired by popular LEGO themes (including LEGO Friends, LEGO City, LEGO NINJAGO and LEGO DREAMZzz) and the experience offers a different challenge each time to put their skills to the test, either solo or with friends.

The two LEGO Islands are the first LEGO-themed experiences within Fortnite to follow 2023’s popular launch of LEGO Fortnite, an all-new survival crafting game where the magic of LEGO building and Fortnite collide. The LEGO Fortnite journey is just beginning, with new world building, gameplay features, and more LEGO Style Outfits arriving in updates throughout 2024.

LEGO Fortnite was the first play experience to come from the long term partnership between Epic Games and the LEGO Group to develop fun and safe digital spaces for children and families. All experiences in Fortnite, including LEGO Islands and LEGO Fortnite, utilize the Epic Games parental controls and safety features.

Players within Fortnite can experience LEGO Islands and LEGO Fortnite dressed in their favourite LEGO Styles, available from their Locker, bringing a new dynamic of LEGO fun to the creative games.

And there’s more to come – as the LEGO Group will unveil several more LEGO themed experiences inside Fortnite throughout 2024 and beyond.

We’re thrilled to introduce players to the first of our creative and fun LEGO Islands series of play experiences within Fortnite,” said Kari Vinther Nielsen, Head of Play & Creator Growth at LEGO GAME. “The power of UEFN, in the hands of our creative teams, is what makes these experiences possible and allows us to expand new genres across Fortnite, infused with LEGO play. We can’t wait to introduce even more as the year goes on – this is only the beginning!”

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.

Top 5 List of the Most Popular Online Games Today

There’s a huge buzz around the online gaming world in 2022. More people than ever own gaming consoles and PCs, while eSports events are continuing to grow in popularity. Quite simply, it’s a great time to be a gamer. 

Here’s an important question, though: what are the most popular online games today? 

This guide has a top 5 list for you to take a look at. If you like the sound of these games, make sure to give them a try. 

  • Online Casinos

Since 2020, online casinos have become something of a new crowd favorite. 

This is largely to do with the fact that people don’t have the time to visit land-based casinos. Instead, they would much rather play casino games online without the hassle of having to get dressed up in their smartest outfits. Plus, playing online is more fun anyway. 

You can try online casino gambling today. Make sure to learn the rules of each game before playing so that you can make smarter in-game decisions. 

  • Fortnite

Fortnite remains at the top of the PlayStation and XBOX digital downloads. 

There are two reasons behind Fortnite’s success:

  • The gameplay is great 
  • It’s free to download 

Throughout history, it’s not often that games like this are made free. This is why millions of people have embraced Fortnite and its battle royale concept. 

According to Dexerto, in 2022, a giant 268-272 million players log into Fortnite each month. 

  • PUBG Mobile

PUBG is another free-to-play battle royale game available on mobile. 

PUBG Mobile has been downloaded over 1 billion times, making it one of the most successful mobile games of all time. 

It provides players with the opportunity to enjoy some battle royale action wherever they are, whether it’s on a lunch break at work or during a hike in the countryside. Essentially, this is why PUBG has been downloaded more times on mobile than on console – because it allows people more flexibility. After all, you can’t carry your PlayStation 5 around in your back pocket! 

  • Minecraft 

Minecraft has been around for over a decade. During this time, it has solidified itself as one of the greatest games of all time, with over 238 million copies sold worldwide. 

If you’ve never played Minecraft before, it’s a fun, open-world game where you get to build different things, collect food to survive, and battle against other random players. 

The pixelated graphic style is one adds an element of charm to the game. It’s unlike most modern-day releases that come with blockbuster graphics. With Minecraft, you get something that looks like it was released in the 1990s. In a sense, the aesthetic is an intentional throwback by the developers to a bygone era in gaming, which is why Minecraft has an incredible nostalgia appeal. 

  • GTA V Online

Lastly, there’s GTA V Online. 

GTA V Online is the multiplayer add-on of GTA V. Here, players can explore the huge open world of Los Santos, customize their characters, invest in properties, buy flash cars, and so much more. 

GTA V Online was just recently released on new-gen consoles (PlayStation 5, XBOX Series X/S) with better graphics and mechanics, so make sure to check it out before GTA 6 finally releases!