In the ever-evolving world of content creation, gaming, and high-performance computing, the demand for compact yet powerful systems is at an all-time high. While Mini form-factor PCs offer the advantage of space efficiency, they often struggle to accommodate the latest, high-performance GPUs without sacrificing performance or responsiveness. To address this challenge, HighPoint has unveiled its groundbreaking RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Chassis, a revolutionary solution that transforms Mini PCs into powerhouse workstations and gaming rigs.
RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Chassis
The RocketStor 8000 Series is not just another eGPU solution. By leveraging HighPoint’s cutting-edge PCIe Switching technology and CDFP/CopperLink cabling, these chassis offer unparalleled performance and flexibility for Mini-PCs and compact desktop workstations. Here’s what sets them apart:
Supports Today’s Fastest GPUs:RocketStor 8000 solutions are designed to support industry-standard full-height, 2-slot, and 3-slot GPUs from all leading manufacturers. Whether you’re a content creator needing a powerful NVIDIA RTX GPU or an extreme gamer seeking the latest AMD Radeon card, these chassis have you covered.
Up to 600W of Direct Power: Each RocketStor 8000 chassis delivers up to 600W of direct power to deliver consistently high framerates, combat stuttering and minimize the likelihood of visual artifacts.
Maximizes Performance & Minimizes Latency: Unlike traditional Thunderbolt or OCuLink eGPU solutions, RocketStor 8000 chassis are powered by HighPoint’s industry-leading PCIe Switching architecture. This technology, combined with CDFP/CopperLink cabling, provides x16 lanes of dedicated Gen4 or Gen5 bandwidth. The result? Maximum performance and minimal latency, ensuring that your applications run smoothly and responsively.
Designed for Compact Computing Environments: The RocketStor 8000’s host adapter is compact, measuring only 6.57″ x 4.33″. This small footprint makes it easy to integrate into Mini-PCs, compact desktop workstations, and even Rackmount chassis. Despite its small size, it doesn’t compromise performance or expandability.
Advanced Cooling System: To maintain optimal performance, the RocketStor 8000 chassis features a robust dual-fan cooling system with programmable smart fan control. This system effectively dissipates heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring that your system runs at peak performance even under heavy loads.
Seamless, Plug & Play Installation for Windows & Linux: RocketStor 8000 eGPU chassis are supported natively by all modern operating systems, including Windows and Linux. They require no additional drivers or software applications, making installation a breeze. Simply connect the chassis to your system, and you’re ready to go.
In Summary
The RocketStor 8000 Series eGPU Expansion Chassis from HighPoint is a game-changer for compact computing environments. By empowering Mini-PCs and compact workstations with the ability to support today’s fastest GPUs, these chassis open up new possibilities for content creators, gamers, and high-performance computing enthusiasts. With its advanced features, robust design, and ease of use, the RocketStor 8000 Series is poised to revolutionize the way we think about eGPU solutions.
Gaming on the go is the ultimate hack for a great gaming experience even when you’re not at home. However, not all gaming devices are made equal, as each of them caters to a different kind of gaming crowd. So, if you’re trying to figure out what will be the best option for you, then you’ve found yourself in the right place.
Casual Players
If you’re someone who doesn’t spend hours upon hours gaming, you’re probably a casual player who sees it as more of a hobby to fill some free time. In this case, you probably won’t be interested in investing serious bucks into your device. So, our first suggestion will be to simply opt for mobile gaming. Nowadays, you’ll find a plethora of apps, ranging from RPGs like Genshin Impact to puzzles such as Get Color. And by choosing this option, you won’t have to spend a dime on an additional gadget as long as you have a modern smartphone.
But beyond playing games available on the App Store or Play Store, you can also enjoy a wide selection of browser games on your phone. For instance, casino platforms offer slots online that are fully mobile-compatible. This means that you’ll get the same high-quality experience spinning the reels on your phone as you would on a PC. The only thing you’ll really need is to ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Alternatively, if you still want to have a dedicated device for gaming but still keep it budget-friendly, you can look into purchasing portable retro consoles. Here, you have two options, with the first one being checking platforms like eBay for second-hand options like the Nintendo 3DS or Game Boy Advance. Many of them will come in with plenty of pre-installed games, meaning you won’t have to waste time trying to figure out how to install games onto it.
The second option would be to consider handhelds like the Miyoo Mini Plus. This is a more modern option, that you can buy in mint condition but specifically play retro games. Once again, you have the option to purchase one that comes with several games pre-installed. The main difference, and advantage, of this option is that it can play games from various consoles. In theory, this means you could have access to every retro game made for any console.
Dedicated Gamers
On the other hand, if you’re someone who prioritises gaming, then the initial investment for a portable gadget that would provide years of rewarding gaming hours will be worthwhile. And we’ll start this off with our current favourite portable console, the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Store is full of amazing titles like Song of Nunu along with console exclusives such as Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
This is also perfect if you’re looking for a hybrid console, as the Switch can be docked using the docking station it comes with. As such, it’s the most versatile option, offering a two-in-one solution. But if you don’t need a hybrid device, you can save quite a bit by instead purchasing the Switch Lite. There aren’t that many differences between the two variants, apart from the lack of docking and smaller size.
However, if you want an even larger variety of games and don’t mind missing out on Switch exclusives, you might be better off with the Steam Deck. In theory, this device will allow you to play any game in your Steam library. Alas, the quality may differ depending on the game you go for.
For example, games like Stardew Valley will run almost seamlessly on it compared to bulkier games like Baldur’s Gate 3, where you may notice a slight dip in quality. But a lot of performance issues can be resolved by simply adjusting the settings on the game. Overall, the positives do outweigh the negatives, so your choice between the two will most likely hinge on the game library.
Conclusion
If you’re a gamer, it may feel like you’re in the golden age of portable gaming devices. And with how fast technology is evolving, we can expect even more dazzling options to be released in the future, like the Switch 2. For now, whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated enthusiast, we hope that the above has helped you decide on the perfect device for you.
MixRift, a mixed reality (MR) gaming start-up announces the launch of its third title, Crit Attack: a new MR arcade wave shooter game, developed to satisfy the need of three generations of gamers* for immersive and engaging MR experiences.
Just in time for the holiday season, the game is easy and free to play, and is compatible with Meta Quest 3, 3S, Pro and 2. In-app purchases like upgrades and extra ‘lives’ are available to make the most out of the playing session, but players can also win these by playing the game for longer. With Cyber Monday just behind us, you can leverage Meta Quest’s deals and play Crit Attack with the family to defend your living room from a wave of monsters.
The combination of the game mechanic (arcade wave shooter), the graphics and the ease of picking it up make Crit Attack unique in the Meta Store, where the emphasis is on the more story driven, multiplayer, longer sessions. Powered by that growing market feedback for more ‘family-friendly’, less intense or graphic violence games, and a nostalgia for 80s and 90s games and entertainment brought to today, Crit Attack is a simple and casual game that anyone can intuitively understand how to use and play.
Bobby Voicu, MixRift’s CEO, commented: “By listening to our audience we noticed a nostalgia trend, driven by TV series like “Strange Things” or games like “Stardew Valley” and “Minecraft” with pixelated graphics. This enables the entire family to enjoy our games – the generation that first played games in arcades, the generation that played the early consoles and, finally, Gen Z and Alpha that can use their MR devices for a competitive and fun game.
The launch of Crit Attack underscores our vision to drive mass MR adoption and make gaming accessible to everyone by developing games that are easy for anyone to play, and deeply immersive. It’s the perfect gift for the whole family to enjoy – what better way to spend Christmas than uniting to fight a wave of monsters?”.
Key features that differentiate it from existing MR experiences:
‘Friendlier’ look and feel: The only MR game where arcade wave shooters are combined with the kind of graphics offered, for the entire family to play. The monsters are cute and annoying rather than scary, appearing in waves – making it a very fun experience for everyone.
Accessible, simple and easy user experience: Easy to pick up and play – simply pick up a controller and point the in-game guns at the monsters that come and try to invade your living room; even the “Play” button is a button you can shoot. Though simple to understand, the game can be a truly tactical experience.
“One more time” experience: The wave arcade shooter mechanic makes it the ideal game for short gaming sessions that players want to experience “one more time” according to user feedback, as with each time they understand what to do to get more monster waves destroyed.
Low time commitment required to play – a more casual experience, where you can play for a half an hour or less session.
Hall of Fame leaderboard: Global leaderboard to track performance against the best players in the world, and be part of a vibrant gaming community.
MixRift’s unique approach is centred on game mechanics, developing and releasing games that resonate with audiences, quickly rather than investing years in a single title.
Voicu added: “While the demand for MR experiences continues to grow, largely driven by tech giants like Meta and Apple, there’s a clear lack of high-quality MR games out there. We’re in the perfect position to tackle this because our flexibility lets us dive into unique game mechanics built specifically for MR. We’re not just making games—we’re pushing boundaries to create new kinds of interactive experiences, changing the way we engage with this technology in our daily lives.”
MixRift has been at the forefront of the MR/XR revolution since its inception, pushing the boundaries of seamless integration between physical and digital realms to create ‘wow’ moments for gamers. In August, MixRift raised £1.6M, primarily directed towards accelerating its game development efforts. The company’s additional games Hell Horde (MR Survival) and Fractured (MR 3D puzzle) are available on Apple Vision Pro and the Meta Quest. MixRift has an ambitious roadmap ahead, including a new, exciting gaming title in Q1 2025.
Updated ranking of the 10 Richest Pro Gamers In the World and Their Net worth in 2024
Video games have been a source of entertainment for passing the time and have been around for a while. But behind entertainment, many are making a fortune off it. There are now many people making a career in professional gaming.
Many esports players have turned their passion for tapping pads for playing video games into a highly lucrative career. They’re rewarded because of their superstar achievement through game skills, streaming, and fan engagement. In fact, some of them are regarded as evil geniuses because of the incredible hard work they pull to esports. Similarly, the rise of casinos not on GamStop has provided gaming enthusiasts with alternative platforms where they can enjoy betting and gaming without traditional restrictions
Nemanja Timotijevic asserts, “Esports isn’t just a pastime anymore; it’s a billion-dollar industry where top gamers earn millions.” But how much money can a single person make in this industry? Read on to learn about the top 10 highest paid players of all time in professional gaming.
World Richest Professional Gamers Who Have Turned Video Games into Lucrative Careers.
PewDiePie (Felix Kjellberg) – $60 Million
Felix Kjellberg rose to be the richest gamer in the world. He has a net worth of around $60 million. His esports career is a motivation for any player in the industry. In an interview, he said, “I started with nothing; I didn’t go to film school, and my editing was basic. But that’s what made it relatable.” He is loved by many for his ruthless hard work and commitment to grow
He amassed his wealth primarily through his creation of gaming content on YouTube. He came to the limelight 2010 through his entertaining gameplay style on Minecraft and several other top games he has found amusing. He currently has over 111 million active subscribers on his YouTube channel. He also earns through merchandise and many big brand sponsorships.
Tyler “Ninja” Blevins – $40 Milllon
Tyler Blevins is a professional Fortnite player famous for being a Twitch and YouTube streamer. His industry name is Ninja. His net worth is around $40 million. He has achieved so much for himself and set many incredible records. In 2018, he became the first gamer to have the Twitch streamer surpass 3 million followers.
He has a cumulative win of 2720 and is always in the top 3 squads in battle royale games like PUBG and Fortnite. He won a million-dollar cash prize when he participated in the E3 Royale Celebrity Pro-Am SIG. He has multiple brand deals, an exclusive streaming contract, and massive platform followers. His dedication shows how playing video games can be a sustainable and lucrative occupation worthy of consideration.
Mark Fischbach (Markiplier) – $30 Million
His industry name is Markplier. His net worth is over $30 million in content creation around video games. As an influencer, Mark has over 37 million subscribers on YouTube, and he is notorious for his amusing presentation of horror games and funny commentary. He is known for his “Let’s Play” videos of indie horror games.
His witty banter also makes video game lovers glued to his content. He has made more than $14 billion on YouTube profit alone. He has won Streamy Awards four times and a Golden Joystick Award. Apart from gaming, he also has a flair for acting and filming.
Michael Grzesiek (Shroud) – $20 Million
Shroud is a skilled player in first-shooter games like Counter-Strike and PUBG. He is also recognized as a former valorant player. He has a net worth of around $20 million. Apart from his gaming skills, he is a streamer and a YouTuber.
He has over 12 million followers on Twitch and more than 7 million subscribers on YouTube. He is a skilled gamer who plays with a precision demeanor. He is an example of a gamer transforming from an esports player to a game streaming icon.
German Garmendia – Nearly $10 Million
German Garmendia is a famous gaming influencer in the Latin American community, though he effortlessly produces video game content that appeals to a broad audience. His net worth is nearly $10 million.
He gathered the wealth from YouTube revenue, endorsement, and sponsorship. He is spectacular for posting funny and relatable gaming content on his channel. He launched his gameplay channel, JuegaGerman, in 2013, which has become the second most subscribed channel in Spanish Language.
Johan Sundstein (N0tail) – $7.8 Million
Notail is a Danish professional Dota 2 gamer with a whooping net worth of $7.8 Million. His career was picked specifically for the OG squad. He became one of the elites of Dota 2 players after winning the 2018 and 2019 squads with the OG squad. N0tail began playing esports professionally at 15. He started with the Heroes of Newerth competition before joining Dota 2 in 2012. He is regarded as one of the youngest professional players worldwide.
Harry Lewis (W2S) – $6.7 Million
Harry Lewis is a YouTube gamer known for creating content on FIFA and Fortnite videos. His industry name is W2S, and he has a net worth of $6.7 million. His gaming content is hilarious and full of surprises. Though he doesn’t compete in professional esports tournaments, it’s evident he has gaming talent with his gaming challenges and commentary. He is a force in the gaming community. He has more than 16 million subscribers on YouTube.
Kuro Takhasomi (KuroKy) – Nearly $5 Million
KuroKy is another recognized Dota 2 legend known worldwide. He has a net worth of about $5 million and has been a pro gamer since he turned 16. He became famous when he joined the Liquid team and won the internationals in 2017. He has played for other big teams like Mousesports, Kingsurf, and Nirvana. He afterward formed his team called Nigma.
Amer “Miracle-” Barqawi – $4.8 Million
Amer Barqawi is a veteran esports player with a net worth of around $4.8 million. He also amassed wealth primarily through Dota 2 tournaments. Miracle has made a mark with Team Secret and Team Liquid. He’s respected for his precise skill and versatility. He later joined the OG squad and dominated games like the Frankfurt Major, DreamLeague Season 5, and ESL Frankfurt.
Esports and the Rise of Betting in Gaming in 2024
Apart from the industry making millionaires, it has also opened opportunities for fans who want to make money while enjoying their favorite games. Many esports tournaments are hosted in the industry, and fans can bet on their favorite teams and players.
In countries like Finland, esports betting is now more common than ever. Platforms where Finns love to bet online now feature exclusive esports sections, allowing players to wager on game outcomes. Fans can wager on popular games like Dota 2, Counter-Strike, and even Fortnite. They can wager on their top Finnish esportsmen like Jesse Vainnikka(jerax), Topson, Buugi and Peksu, among many others. These players are loved by fans and are highly popular for their gaming skill in the region. Fans that love their gameplay can bet on them on the Finnish betting platforms.
These platforms are ways for fans to engage with the gaming industry beyond viewing. Prediction brings more thrill, raises energy and anxiety for fans. Ultimately, it makes fans grow more interest in their favorite gamer. While their gamers make money with content creation and a large number of followers, the fans too will benefit from betting on their favorite gamers.
Esports Growth and its Earning Potential in the Future
Esports gaming has gone far beyond entertainment. It now offers spectacular rewards to dedicated players and those who can promote it. Many young gamers like Johan Sundstein, Jesse Vainikka, Jerax, and N0tail are inspirational figures.
If you’re an esports enthusiast, you can also reach and surpass their pinnacle of success. All it takes to be a professional esports player is sheer dedication, achieved by constantly sharpening your skill, joining various teams and communities dedicated to esports games, and getting informed about how things work out in the gaming industry.
I’ve had the pleasure of testing several OBSBOT webcams in the past. The OBSBOT Meet 2 is the latest addition to their lineup, and it doesn’t disappoint. This compact and lightweight webcam comes in three stylish colors: Cloud White, Space Grey, and Aurora Green, making it a perfect fit for any setup.
Design and Mounting Options
The Meet 2 features a sleek and solid construction, making it durable and easy to mount. The magnetic mount allows for quick and easy attachment to the top of your laptop, while the optional tripod thread (1/4″) provides flexibility for other mounting solutions.
AI-Powered Imaging Technology
One of the standout features of the Meet 2 is its advanced AI-powered imaging technology. The Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) ensures swift and accurate focusing, making it ideal for live demonstrations and video calls where clarity is crucial.
Ultra 4K Resolution and Low-Light Performance
The Meet 2 boasts an impressive 4K resolution, capturing vibrant and detailed footage that brings your content to life. The upgraded 1/2″ CMOS sensor, coupled with an F/1.8 aperture, ensures exceptional performance even in low-light conditions. This allows you to produce high-quality content in any environment without compromising on detail or clarity.
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Audio Quality and Noise Reduction
The dual omnidirectional microphones with Noise Reduction and Auto Gain Control ensure that your voice remains clear, even in noisy environments. This feature is particularly useful for gamers and streamers who often face background noise during their sessions.
Obsbot Ecosystem Integration and Streamlined Control
The Meet 2 seamlessly integrates with the Obsbot Center, unlocking features like AI Auto-Framing, Bokeh, and Beauty Mode for enhanced streaming visuals. It also supports multi-camera setups for smooth transitions between devices, perfect for showcasing different angles during gameplay. The webcam’s compatibility with OSC (Open Sound Control), Global Hotkey, and Stream Deck provides a streamlined user experience, allowing for easy customization and control of your stream.
Setup and Accessories
While the webcam can be used directly out of the box, it’s recommended to download the latest Obsbot software and firmware for optimal performance. The QR code on the box links to tutorial videos and articles, ensuring a smooth setup process. However, the lack of a carry case to keep the unit and accessories safe is a minor drawback
This compact, super-portable webcam, priced at just $129, is available in three stylish colors – Cloud White, Space Grey, and Aurora Green – making it the perfect choice for remote workers, gamers, and anyone who wants to elevate their video calls and live streams. It boasts a powerful combination of AI-powered imaging technology and ultra 4K resolution, all in a small, sleek design that’s easy to transport and set up.
Outstanding AI-Powered Imaging Technology
Equipped with advanced PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus) technology, Meet 2 offers swift and accurate focusing by detecting phase changes and adjusting the lens instantly. This makes it perfect for sharp and detailed demonstrations during live streams.
Dual Microphones with Noise Reduction and Auto Gain
Built-in dual omni-directional microphones with Noise Reduction and Auto Gain Control keep your voice clear, regardless of noisy environments.
Features That Give Gamers the Edge:
OBSBOT Ecosystem Integration: The Meet 2 seamlessly integrates with the OBSBOT Center, unlocking features like AI Auto-Framing, Bokeh, and Beauty Mode for enhanced streaming visuals. It also supports multi-camera setups for smooth transitions between devices, perfect for showcasing different angles during gameplay. Imagine switching seamlessly between your gameplay and a close-up of your reaction – it’s like having a dedicated cameraman for your stream!
Warranty
The 1-year warranty provided with the Meet 2 is a bit disappointing for a feature-rich technology product. A longer warranty period would instill more confidence in the product’s durability and quality.
Conclusion
The OBSBOT Meet 2 is a solid, budget-friendly, and practical webcam with excellent 4K resolution for video calls and live streams. Its AI-powered features, such as Auto-Framing, Bokeh, and Beauty Mode, enhance the overall streaming experience. While the warranty could be improved, the Meet 2 remains a compelling device packed with features.
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
Nordcurrent, the award-winning games developer and publisher, is reshaping the future of fashion gaming with the launch of its new UGC platform Pocket Styler Studio – the first platform where users can design entire clothing collections down to the last detail and then sell them in-game.
The online studio allows players to live their fashion-designer dreams, creating garments and entire fashion collections, including shoes and accessories, to their desired specifications. The studio currently has over 310 trillion possible outfit combinations!
Powered by browser-based tools similar to those found in Photoshop, Pocket Styler Studio is an easy-to-use platform, whether you are designing coats and dresses, or sunglasses, gloves or hosiery.
Simply start by choosing a colour palette or partnered ‘fabric’ and then go to work! Choose from thousands of design details, such as the neckline style, sleeve design, skirt length silhouette and fit, and visual details like buttons or visible stitching.
No outfit is complete without bespoke accessories, so why not uniquely customise shoe styles, patterns, colours and heel heights too? Once the garment or accessory is completed, the platform renders it to fit on Pocket Styler avatars perfectly.
Images generated in Pocket Styler Studio
Sell sell sell!
The final collections are saved in the designer’s profile until they are ready to be marketed in the Pocket Styler app game. Designers can track their brands’ success by ‘Publishing’ items and assessing how many sell. Players can fully brand their designer label, even create their logo, and earn ‘Gems’, the in-game currency, for every item sold to other players.
Victoria Trofimova, CEO of Nordcurrent, comments: “Pocket Styler Studio gives anyone anywhere in the world a chance to become a fashion designer and build their own virtual fashion brand.
“The only limit to what you can create is your imagination. By designing their garments, players are transformed into designers, shaping the gaming universe – and potentially the real world of fashion.”
Fashion industry insiders say the launch of Pocket Styler Studio will revolutionise fashion forecasting, providing instant real-time data on the best-selling new styles. It will also allow fashion houses and designer labels to spot up-and-coming new creatives. Several big-name fashion brands have already expressed an interest in the new feature and the potential for designers to craft and showcase their items within the game. With 70 percent of users aged over 25 and 85 percent female, Pocket Styler Studio is expected to provide a hothouse of new talent for the global fashion industry.
Launched in May 2021, Pocket Styler is already a global gaming phenomenon, with over 21 million downloads and 100,000 fashion lovers spending 10,000 hours on the app daily.
Irish gamers will have the chance to mix it with some of the country’s best esports pros this month as the world’s largest mobile esports open competition comes to Ireland for the very first time. Now in its sixth season globally, Red Bull M.E.O. sees players from over 30 countries compete, with incredible prizes for the winners.
Red Bull M.E.O. is a free competition, open to participants of all levels, and is a rare opportunity for casual mobile gamers to take on established professionals from the Irish circuit. The most popular mobile esports open internationally, this is the first year that the competition will be open to Irish gamers.
The two chosen titles in which players can compete are Clash Royale and PUBG Mobile. Clash Royale is open to individual players, and will be played in a standard single elimination tournament format. The first qualifier for Clash Royale takes place on January 13th with the second to follow on January 21st. The top 4 players from each qualifier will proceed to the grand finals.
PUBG Mobile, which is open to duos (teams of 2 players), will follow a similar format. Two online qualifiers will take place on January 14th and January 20th respectively. Eight teams will in turn qualify for the live final, with four teams proceeding from each round.
On Saturday January 27th, the Red Bull M.E.O. Live Final will take place in the Sugar Club in Dublin, where Ireland’s top gamers will battle it out to claim the Red Bull M.E.O. title for the first time on these shores.
Red Bull M.E.O. Season 6 (Ireland)
Clash Royale Qualifier #1 – Saturday January 13th
PUBG Mobile Qualifier #1 – Sunday January 14th
PUBG Mobile Qualifier #2 – Saturday January 20th
Clash Royale Qualifier #2 – Sunday January 21st
Red Bull M.E.O. National Finals – Saturday January 27th
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced the all-new ROG Phone 7 series of gaming smartphones at its For Those Who Dare virtual launch event.
The ROG Phone 7 series includes the ROG Phone 7 and ROG Phone 7 Ultimate models and is the latest step in the high-performance evolution of the world’s greatest gaming phone. This futuristically-styled phone — which sports a new two-tone design — combines the game-winning power of the flagship Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform with the advanced GameCool 7 thermal system and special ROG tuning to deliver a truly breathtaking mobile gaming experience — and impressively low power consumption. The key to this power efficiency is the revolutionary new rapid-cycle vapor chamber design, which increases heat dissipation efficiency by up to 168%, allowing the ROG Phone 7 series to run games at full speed while maintaining low temperatures.
To make ROG Phone 7 a powerful and portable theater, we’ve increased the effective volume of the ROG Phone 7 series’ speakers by 50% and tuned the system in cooperation with audio specialists Dirac. ROG Phone 7 series now delivers amazing 2.1-channel sound when the new AeroActive Cooler 7 accessory — which houses a powerful subwoofer — is attached.
Additionally, the stunning 165 Hz Samsung AMOLED display’s peak brightness has significantly increased compared to the previous model. And, the ROG Phone 7 series also features the legendary AI-generated in-game effects, customizable AirTrigger haptic buttons, and continuous game-setting updates by the ROG Gaming team that epitomize the core spirit of ROG — to put the player first!
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate version additionally features the unique ROG Vision matrix display on its rear, and the GameCool 7 thermal system is enhanced with the innovative AeroActive Portal.
No-compromise performance
The mighty ROG Phone 7 series was built without compromises, unleashing the awesome gaming power of the flagship 3.2 GHz Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, which is 15% faster and 15% more power-efficient than the previous generation. It’s paired with up to 16 GB of 8,533 Mbps LPDDR5X RAM, and a 512 GB UFS 4.0 ROM that’s twice as fast as UFS 3.0. It’s ready for Wi-Fi 7* (802.11be) with Qualcomm FastConnec 7800, supporting ultra-fast 320 MHz channels and Multi-Link operation, with game-changing latency performance benefit, Thanks to Snapdragon Elite Gaming™, the ROG Phone 7 supports real-time hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This means that for supported games, gamers can enjoy hyper-realistic reflections — particularly on water and metal surfaces — that add a new dimension to the gaming experience.
All this power is enhanced even further by the unrivaled Armoury Crate performance manager, which gives gamers the finest control over performance and tuning settings.
To keep pace with the fastest action, the ROG Phone 7 series uses a 165 Hz Samsung AMOLED display with a 720 Hz touch-sampling rate and a Delta E <1 color accuracy for superb visuals. We’ve also increased the brightness to 1,500 nits for easier viewing outside. The superb visuals are tuned in collaboration with leading visual-processing company Pixelworks® for world-beating color accuracy. It’s a display without compare.
Additionally, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate features ROG Vision, a unique matrix color display on the rear of the phone that exemplifies the daring innovation behind the ROG brand. This creative feature can showcase awesome animations triggered by system events, such as charging status, incoming calls, X Mode activation, and more. Gamers can even create their own personalized animations, further enhancing the uniqueness of the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate. With ROG Vision, gamers can express their true style and embrace the full potential of this cutting-edge technology.
No-compromise power efficiency
To minimize power consumption without compromising performance, the ROG Phone 7 series leverages the 15% improvement in power efficiency offered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, enhanced with the best ever GameCool 7 thermal system to cool the CPU from all directions. This uses a three-pronged approach. For short sessions, the Boron Nitride (BN) thermal compound on one side of the CPU reduces throttling. Mid-length sessions are taken care of by the bigger vapor chamber and graphite sheets on the other side of the CPU. Lastly, for marathon sessions the AeroActive Cooler 7 — with its fan positioned right over the CPU module — kicks into play for AI-powered active cooling, featuring a Peltier element for extra cooling performance.
In the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate, cooling is enhanced even further with the world-leading AeroActive Portal. This air inlet activates automatically when the AeroActive Cooler is attached, directing a constant flow of cool air from the cooler onto the cooling fins of the vapor chamber. This efficiently dispels the heat generated by the SoC, leading to a notable boost in both gaming performance and battery endurance. When the AeroActive Portal is activated, the phone’s thermal efficiency can increase by up to 20%.
The new rapid-cycle vapor chamber in the ROG Phone 7 has been completely redesigned – it’s bigger and uses new technology inside. Instead of the usual pillar-shaped structures, it uses special trident-shaped wick columns on the long edges of the chamber to improve efficiency. Additionally, there are six liquid-return channels that act as highways for water to flow back to the SoC ready for the next thermal cycle. The thermally-efficient graphite sheets in the ROG Phone 7 have also been made bigger and have been reshaped to maximize heat transfer from the mainboard and RF board.
Finally, the AeroActive Cooler 7 features not only an improved fan with more blades for higher back pressure, but also a built-in thermoelectric Peltier cooler for maximum cooling power. The revolutionary DualCool design ensures that while the rear of the phone is cooled by the Peltier cooler, cooling air is also directed across the phone’s screen for maximum cooling efficiency.
No-compromise gaming
Mobile gamers have never experienced phones that sound as good as the ROG Phone 7 series. The twin front-firing 12 x 16 mm speakers — with 50% more effective volume than previously — are aided by the five-magnet, super-linear 13 x 38 mm sub-woofer in the AeroActive 7 cooler, which enhances bass volume by 77% for unbeatable 2.1 sound in games or movies when the cooler is attached. Fine-tuning in cooperation with the audio experts at Dirac ensures unrivaled sound quality.
From its 3.5 mm headphone jack to its Dirac Virtuo™ For Headphone theater-like spatial sound, the ROG Phone 7 series has all the technology for all the sound. Snapdragon Sound™ technology support enables super-low-latency high-fidelity Bluetooth® audio, so whatever the user’s listening choice, their ears will thank them for the ROG Phone 7.
New software features enhance the gaming experience even further. X Sense helps gamers to detect key onscreen events, such as when an important new item appears on the map or an enemy is approaching, with a pop-up notification. And if a gamer dispenses with multiple rivals in a single manoeuvre, X Sense adds visual effects to add to the celebration. X Capture is an AI tool that automatically records memorable moments in the battle, such as vanquishing an enemy or wining the match.
The renowned AirTrigger ultrasonic controls give gamers unrivaled fingertip control over their games for a console-like experience. They support a wide range of gestures, including Dual Action, Press and Lift, and Gyroscope Aiming. There are also 10 motion controls and an X-axis linear motor that provides powerful haptic feedback, taking gamers into the heart of the action. It also enables the superb Vibration Mapping feature, which enhances the touch experience by providing adjustable haptic feedback for virtual on-screen buttons.
Availability & Pricing
The ASUS ROG Phone 7 series will be available for pre-order from April 13 in Europe & Taiwan from ASUS online store and channel partners.
