Tag: Sports

EA SPORTS NHL 24 BRINGS THE TRUE INTENSITY OF HOCKEY, AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE TODAY

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) today released EA SPORTS™ NHL® 24, now available worldwide on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation®4 and Xbox One. Fueled by EA’s Frostbite™ engine, the all-new Exhaust Engine introduces the Sustained Pressure and Goalie Fatigue systems for lifelike hockey intensity that bring the rush and fatigue of on-ice high-pressure to life. The revamped NHL 24 Physics-Based Contact mechanics offers realistic player contact and body checks, elevating the feel of the gameplay experience.

“Hockey fans cherish the sport’s raw intensity. This year, with new features like the Exhaust Engine and Physics-Based Contact, we’re capturing that essence,” said Mike Inglehart, Creative Director at EA Vancouver. “NHL 24 allows players to feel the thrill of the sport, and we’re eager for fans to experience its gritty physicality.”

NHL 24 is packed with new features including:

  • Completely Revamped Gameplay Experience: EA SPORTS NHL has never felt this intense, with all-new gameplay mechanics that dial up the pressure, physicality, and control of authentic on-ice action. The brand-new Exhaust Engine – powered by Frostbite – includes the Sustained Pressure and Goalie Fatigue systems, rewarding extended offensive events and attack zone time, adding a dynamic new layer of authenticity and excitement to the game. Players can pass anywhere at any time with Vision Passing and Total Control Skill Moves makes using highlight-reel moves more intuitive and accessible. These are just a few of the exciting gameplay layers added to NHL 24, and players can learn more by checking out the 15-minute deep dive trailer here as well as the corresponding blog post here.

 

  • The Most Dynamic World of Chel Yet: Players will be able to connect in more ways than ever before with enhanced Cross-Play‡, which will lead to better matchmaking to players across platforms. Improvements to Creation Zone will give players more customization, while an update to the EASHL Playoffs introduces an authentic, streamlined do-or-die 16-game path to the title, allowing players to earn ranking points as they make their way through the bracket. NHL 24 also introduces World of Chel Battle Pass, and players can play their way through action-packed seasons at free and premium level. Learn more about the upgrades to World of Chel in the deep dive video here, and a blog post about the game’s modes here.

 

  • Experience Historic Hockey Moments in Hockey Ultimate Team™: NHL 24 debuts HUT Moments, allowing players to recreate, share, and track iconic hockey plays using a real-time system that updates player progress based on items, teams and on-ice actions. NHL 24 also introduces a new real-time objective-tracking system, enabling players to keep active track of their objectives and stay focused on the exciting on-ice action. Learn more about Hockey Ultimate Team by watching the over eight-minute deep dive here.

 

  • Modernized Presentation: With NHL 24, players will experience deeper on-ice immersion through the inclusion of Flex Moments, providing 75+ new goal celebrations, camera angles, lighting and customizable celebration controls that will allow players to map their celebration to their controller. NHL 24 features enhanced crowd reactions to bring to life the intensity of hockey, and Dynamic Rink Boards expand the augmented reality broadcast and communicate key on-ice moments. Learn more about the all-new presentation in NHL 24 in the nearly eight-minute deep dive video here.

Developed by EA Vancouver and EA Bucharest, EA SPORTS NHL 24 is rated E10+, and now available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The EA SPORTS NHL 24 X-Factor Edition* includes the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 or Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S versions of the game, three days of early access, 4600 NHL Points, exclusive Cale Makar player item, HUT Power-Up Icon of choice and WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier x5. For more details visit: https://www.ea.com/games/nhl/nhl-24/buy.

Tech Review – ULTIMAL Sports Strap For Apple Watch Ultra 2

The ULTIMAL Sports Strap Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a comfortable and affordable strap to check out if you need a new strap these straps are also compatible with most of the Apple watch range too and comes in all sizes and colours and other variants which is also cheaper than what apple command for their straps which is ludicrous in some cases.

The buckles are made of stainless steel and so is the clasp and sits nicely on the wrist when on, these bands are bigger and thicker than what Apple offer and look good and stand out so if that’s you and want a new strap that is cheaper and perhaps better checkout their range on Amazon.

The strap will cost around 30 euro including shipping which is a fair price,see the video below for more.

  • 【Compatibility】ULTIMAL Sports Strap compatible with Apple Watch Ultra Strap 49MM, for iWatch Strap Series Ultra/Ultra 2. Fitting Range:6.7”-8.9”(170-226mm).
  • 【Breathable Nylon】It is compatible with the apple watch Ultra 2 strap which is made of high quality woven nylon and is comfortable, soft, breathable, durable and sturdy.
  • 【Stylish Function Design】Hook & Loop is designed to better adjust the length of apple ultra watch strap 49mm to fit your wrist. Hollowed-Out design allows for better breathability and sweat resistance.
  • 【Security & Easy to Install】Stainless steel clasp with lugs for precise and secure locking on the watch. One-click installation and removal. You can keep the watch safe even when you are exercising.
  • 【Service】If ULTIMAL apple watch band has any defect or quality problem, you can contact us at any time.We will try our best to offer you a solution.

BUY

Video review

EA SPORTS FC 24 LAUNCHES WORLDWIDE

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) today marked the beginning of a new era in football, with the worldwide launch of EA SPORTS FC™ 24, available now for PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch™. A trinity of new technologies powers EA SPORTS FC™ 24, with cross-play** now expanded to all multiplayer online modes, allowing friends to play across platforms as EA SPORTS enters a new era for the world’s game. Fans are invited to join the club alongside the 6.8 million players who have already played EA SPORTS FC 24 through Early Access, an increase of over 25% from last year.

“Today marks a milestone moment as we welcome millions of fans to the club with EA SPORTS FC,” said Nick Wlodyka, SVP & GM of EA SPORTS FC. “There is massive innovation at the heart of FC 24, combined with a commitment to authenticity, and together they deliver an unparalleled, entertaining experience that is expansive, true-to-life, and above all – brings together a football community with our fans at the center.”

EA SPORTS FC 24 launches this week alongside EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile as the first new experiences in the EA SPORTS FC platform of global football fandom powered by video games. EA SPORTS FC reaches fans through console, mobile, online and esports products, powered by EA SPORTS’ 30-year history of defining interactive football, and leading a fan-first future built on inclusivity, innovation, and authenticity.

Unrivaled authenticity in EA SPORTS FC™ 24 is brought to life through a roster of players from the biggest clubs and leagues from around the world, including LALIGA EA SPORTS, the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, CONMEBOL Libertadores, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, the Barclays Women’s Super League, and more.

“EA SPORTS FC is our greatest ever expression of interactive football, and will connect fans around the world with the sport like never before.” said David Jackson, VP of Brand, EA SPORTS FC. “Together with 19,000 athletes, over 700 teams and 30+ leagues, we’re kicking off this new chapter with FC 24 by bringing unprecedented levels of authenticity and innovation to football fans everywhere.”

EA SPORTS FC launches on mobile

Today, Electronics Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) celebrates the launch of EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile, marking a new beginning for the future of football on mobile platforms. EA SPORTS FC Mobile is available now to download on the App Store and Play Store across iOS and Android devices. For the existing mobile community of 100M+ active users, EA SPORTS FC Mobile will be available as a free update without need to redownload to devices.

EA SPORTS FC Mobile provides an unrivaled authentic football experience on mobile devices and features more than 15,000 fully licensed players across over 650 teams and over 30 leagues – including the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, LALIGA EA SPORTS, Bundesliga, and many more. True Player Personality is at the core of bringing this authenticity to life in-game, reflecting player characteristics with distinct strengths and weaknesses that diversify gameplay and team building.

“As we enter this new era with EA SPORTS FC, we are intent on meeting our global player community where they are to deliver on player choice and create the most immersive and authentic football experiences available,” said Nick Wlodyka, SVP & GM, EA SPORTS FC. “EA SPORTS FC Mobile is key to unlocking a new level of engagement to enrich the FC ecosystem for our players and continue our path into a fan-first future.”

Mobile Gameplay with High Impact and Speed

Bringing balance to pace and dribbling, Dynamic Game Speed manifests itself into a composed, mobile-friendly gameplay, providing players with more time on the ball to make decisions and diversify build-up play style. With the Elite Shooting System, shot types are crafted to feel unique and rewarding, each having their own character and purpose to put players in a position to score.

EA SPORTS FC Mobile introduces a new level of immersion to command the pitch with new Impact Controls, focused across three areas:

  • Power Shot: The Power Shot is the fastest shot type in the game, but comes with a risk vs reward mechanic. The animation length of a Power Shot is much longer than a regular shot and puts the player at risk to be tackled during the shot wind-up. Successfully unleashing a Power Shot not only looks great, but is immensely satisfying to score.
  • Hard Tackle: Hard Tackles are a powerful and far-lunging stand tackle, allowing players to crush attackers or make a last second shot block. Defenders can perform faster and more powerful tackles with Hard Tackle.
  • Knock On: Unlock full speed while dribbling and break away from defenders or create space to step into a shot. Knock On and also the newly added Hard Stop have been added to FC Mobile as Team Skill Moves, which allows for customization of the swipe direction control as desired.

“By honing in on what makes mobile gameplay special with our refined controls, we’ve created a football experience that’s approachable to all players and skill levels,” said Lawrence Koh, VP, EA SPORTS FC MOBILE. “With True Player Personality bringing authentic player characteristics in-game, we encourage our own community of players to discover their own style of play and celebrate the joy of glory alongside their favorite football stars.”

Experience the UEFA Champions League

Enjoy an authentic experience with the new UEFA Champions League Tournament mode. Take control of one of the qualified clubs, play to come out on top of the Group Stage, advance through the Knockout Phase, and compete to lift the trophy in the Final!

A New Look and Feel

An immersive matchday experience in EA SPORTS FC Mobile will bring the player community closer to The World’s Game than ever before with new visual and audio updates, including an all-new broadcast experience with match intro scenes and a wide camera that replicates the stadium atmosphere. A whole host of new set piece camera options, paired with enhanced audio featuring dynamic commentary and team-specific chants, will make key moments on the pitch come alive.

The Locker Room will also offer more options for fans to customize their team and players to fit their preferred style. Options will include adjusting their star players’ kit numbers and kit appearance including the length of their socks, sleeve length, and shirt tucking style. Elsewhere, in Club Identity, fans can add their own personal touch in Ultimate Team with their choice of Club Crest, User Logo, Ball, and Emotes.

The entire user interface has also been reworked to reflect the EA SPORTS FC Mobile brand. From background imagery to animations, icons, and fonts, the visual journey will feel fresh and modern as players build excitement before they take to the pitch.

Founders Pack

Users who log in to play EA SPORTS FC Mobile between September 26 – November 30, 2023, will also have the opportunity to score one coveted ambassador player item from the Founders Pack*:

  • Real Madrid CF’s Vinícius Júnior
  • Manchester City F.C.’s Erling Haaland
  • Liverpool F.C.’s Virgil van Dijk
  • Tottenham Hotspur F.C.’s Son Heung-min
  • Real Madrid CF’s Jude Bellingham
  • Liverpool FC’s Diogo Jota
  • Manchester City F.C.’s Jack Grealish
  • Juventus’ Federico Chiesa
  • Chelsea F.C.’s Enzo Fernández
  • Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko

EA SPORTS FC Mobile joins EA SPORTS FC™ 24, which launches on September 29, in marking a new beginning for the future of football to connect hundreds of millions of fans through console, mobile, online and esports products.

DOWNLOAD NOW: iOS/App Store | Android/Google Play Store

EA SPORTS CELEBRATES A NEW ERA FOR THE WORLD’S GAME WITH EPIC EA SPORTS FC 24 SOUNDTRACK

Today, Electronic Arts Inc. revealed the official soundtrack of EA SPORTS FC™ 24, defining a new era with the sounds of The World’s Game. The soundtrack features songs from a global list of artists, both beloved and upcoming, that will inspire players throughout EA SPORTS FC 24.

Featuring over 100 artists from around the globe, with an unprecedented cross-section of genres, the far-reaching track list showcases a range of global hitmakers, from Major Lazer to The Blessed Madonna and The Rolling Stones. Other superstar artists include multiple BET, MOBO, MTV Europe and Q Award-winner Stormzy, multi-Platinum megastar Jack Harlow, Grammy winner Baby Keem with 17x Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar and Latin Grammy Award winner Karol G. It also brings together multi-Diamond rapper Ninho ft. 2x Ivor Novello Award winner Central Cee as well as breakout artists including Indian pop sensation King, indie rock knockouts The Last Dinner Party,  Obongjayar, and hot rapper KayCyy, plus unreleased tracks by producer Barry Can’t Swim ft. Surya Sen, Michaël Brun, and many more.

Each track and artist represent EA SPORTS FC’s ambitions to create a truly international soundscape that defines the global nature of football and musical influences. As the power of unique football styles like Total Football and Brazilian flair transcends continents, so too does Afrobeats to Reggaeton to Grime.

“The premiere of EA SPORTS FC 24 delivers a definitive global soundtrack that builds on innovation and authenticity like never before,” says Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive and President of Music for Electronic Arts. “We’ve curated a player experience that celebrates diversity and discovery via new music & artists that defies genres, erases borders, creates football culture, and powers football life. It’s the next chapter in The World’s Game, set to music like never before.”

The full EA SPORTS FC 24 soundtrack is now available on Spotify and other streaming platforms. Listen on Spotify here.

EA SPORTS FC 24 will be available to play on September 29, 2023 with early access through the Ultimate Edition available as of September 22, 2023. Pre-orders* are now available for EA SPORTS FC™ 24 which will launch on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch.

*Conditions and restrictions apply. See here for details.

AIG Ireland and University of Notre Dame Dublin Global Gateway hosted today the 2023 Cybersecurity Symposium & Sports Panel Event.

Over 250 of Ireland’s C-Suite executives, Academia, Government and Sports representatives gathered to hear from some of the world’s leading experts in Cyber Security, Risk, Technology, Law Enforcement, Governance, as well as a panel of leading sporting legends from Ireland and the US before the highly anticipated Notre Dame V Navy game in Dublin.

Guests had the opportunity to hear from: Honorable John F. Plumb, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy, US Department of Defense; Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ambassador of Ireland to the United States of America; Jayne Brady, Head of Northern Ireland Civil Service; Mitch Kajzer, University of Notre Dame Cybercrime Investigation.

Research and Education (CIRE) Initiative, Associate Professor of the Practice; Dr. Heather Melville, CEO & Founder, Clarke Smith Advisory, Chancellor of York University and Senior Advisor (DE&I) to Teneo; Professor Joe Carthy, University College Dublin, School of Computer Science; Sophie De Ferranti, Senior Managing Director, Teneo , Global Head of Cybersecurity, Teneo People Advisory; Tracie Grella, Global Head of Cyber Risk Insurance, AIG New York; and, Ryan Lasmaili, CEO, Vaultree.

Tech Review – Creative Outlier Free+ and Outlier Free Pro+

Bone conduction headphones have surged in popularity over the last two years and we know that due to the numerous models we have tested and stay tuned for more by the way which are in the review process and for the most these are simple products to use and set up and again for the most there is no app to content with so they are a connect to your phone device and away you go, some however offer more and then you have Air conduction headphones.

Creative however is not new to the scene here nor is the brand and known for delivering excellent audio products be it speakers headphones or earbuds and this is their second time around now with these bone conducting headphones and there is an improvement on last years models and that being in the sound department.

I am speaking about the two products in one review because they are almost identical and the pro offering extra on board storage and a better IP rating other than that the sound for me was identical the controls are identical and the audio profiles are also identical so is the looks apart from the colour choice.

The build quality is great as before and these are super robust they could be flung about the place and still work they can be twisted and tortured and they still work so they are built to last.

Some folk find these neckband type headphones annoying and the questions I always get asked is does the band bounce up and down and how do they sound same two questions all the time oddly enough they never ask about battery life or any other factors.

The neckband sits nicely on your neck to begin with and stays there even in the gym once you have these sat on your ears correct there will be no issue now you might get the odd bounce on the neck if you push it but for the most they are grand and comfortable the only difference is they don’t do in your ears and that is a transition you can only decide if it is for you and it is not as bad as some might be lead to believe.

Controls are simple to use on these guys and both identical you cet three small raised buttons that are tactile and work well to do all the things you need to do so which is volume control skip and reverse tracks play and pause control calls and activate your voice assistant so you have all the controls required however there is no app here.. You have a mfb or better known as a multifunction button which you press 4 times yes 4 times to change the latency, now I say 4 times however there is some earbuds I recently tested that went up to 5 times to do something which is a bit of a joke to be honest.

How do they sound then, well they will and bone conducting headphones will never be as good as headphones or earbuds however the sound quality is getting better as the technology improves over time and for me it has from what I have tested to date and these have vastly improved over their previous models and you have to take into account these are aimed at the sporty person but anyone can wear them which I often do asides from testing.

These both have some bass in there pretty decent sound overall for the technology in play here and deliver a good audio experience whilst being able to hear what is going on around you which is important, not as good as in ear earbuds or headphones but overall you can’t complain when using this technology but it is getting better.

Creative Outlier Free+ is priced at £89.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreePlus

Creative Outlier Free Pro+ is priced at £119.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreeProPlus

Video Review

 

 

Klarna partners with Life Style Sports

Klarna, the global payments network and shopping destination, today announced its partnership with Life Style Sports to offer flexible payment options to Irish shoppers buying the latest performance and sportswear.

With Klarna’s Pay in 3 service, shoppers can conveniently purchase all their favourite sports brands at lifestylesports.com and pay in three easy, interest free instalments at the checkout. The news comes during a busy summer and upcoming autumn of sports.

Life Style Sports has been a trusted destination for performance and sportswear since its establishment in 1979. Following the launch of the Irish retailer’s new ‘For The Love Of It’ brand position, Life Style Sports recognises how flexible payment options allow consumers to discover and participate in their favourite sports and activities whilst also enabling them to remain in control of their finances.

“This partnership has come at an important time for Life Style Sports during a busy season of sport with the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Rugby World Cup,” says Mark Carter, Group Finance & I.T. Director at Life Style Sports’ parent company Stafford Group. “By making our retail experience more seamless and convenient, our partnership with Klarna will help to remove financial barriers for many fans across Ireland who want to turn to sports and fitness in their own lives.”

“Since launching in Ireland in 2021, we’ve seen how keen shoppers across the country are for more flexibility in how they pay for their purchases and manage their finances,” said Colin Creagh, Head of Klarna, Ireland. “With over half a million customers using Klarna across Ireland, there is a clear appetite for more payment method choices. This partnership with Life Style Sports is an exciting reflection of this, and we look forward to enabling customers to manage the costs of keeping fit and supporting their teams this Summer.”

EA SPORTS FC BUILDS ON VISION FOR THE WORLD’S GAME WITH IMMERSIVE NEW GAMEPLAY IN EA SPORTS FC MOBILE

Electronics Arts Inc. announced EA SPORTS FC™ MOBILE, set to launch globally on September 26, featuring intuitive gameplay controls that will introduce a new level of immersion to The World’s Game on mobile devices. For existing players, EA SPORTS FC MOBILE will be released as a free* update without a need to redownload to devices.

As revealed earlier this week over Instagram, Real Madrid winger Vini Jr. will make his debut as the first-ever cover star for EA SPORTS FC MOBILE. Fans of Vini Jr. will experience his authentic running style, brought to life in-game through True Player Personality, accentuated by revised Impact Controls that will let players take command of the pitch to show off their own playmaking skills.

“I’m excited to be featured as the cover star for EA SPORTS FC MOBILE and look forward to sharing this excitement with fans worldwide,” said Vini Jr. “Football is more than just a sport, and to play a part in inviting more people into this celebration is a dream.”

EA SPORTS FC MOBILE will immerse players in next-level gameplay, with key features including:

  • True Player Personality: The world’s most recognizable players come to life with True Player Personality. Authentic running styles, penalty kick stances and celebrations for certain players, all bring EA SPORTS FC MOBILE to a new level of authenticity.
  • Dynamic Game Speed: Mobile-first and tactile game speed, allowing for more player personality and attribute impact on the pitch.
  • Elite Shooting System: Revamped shooting system allows impact players to show up on the scoresheet and make their mark. Feel rewarded when you make smart shooting decisions both inside and outside the box, on a cross, or off the volley. Take control of your favorite attackers and rally your team to victory.
  • Impact Controls:
    • Power Shot: Unleash a high-powered shot that leaves keepers clawing at air. Load up your shot when you’re in space to harness the full potential of Power Shot. Balance the risk and reward of the Power Shot to devastate your opponent and take the lead.
    • Knock On Dribble: Bring your pacey dribblers to top speed faster by knocking the ball ahead into space. Take advantage of your opponent’s high defensive back-line by having your rapid attackers push ahead in a fluid manner. Dribbling with true speedsters takes on a whole new feeling.
    • Hard Tackle: Make your presence felt and assert dominance in defense and midfield by launching a crunching stand tackle. Separate your opponent’s attackers from the ball or make a last-ditch block with new Hard Tackles.

“We’re incredibly excited to invite players across mobile, online, and console to join us as we begin this new journey for The World’s Game with EA SPORTS FC,” said Nick Wlodyka, SVP & GM, EA SPORTS FC. “Our focus is on meeting our expansive player community where they are and how they play across our EA SPORTS FC ecosystem, and we’re putting this perspective into action with more experiences to be announced soon.”

To usher in a new era on EA SPORTS FC MOBILE, existing mobile players are invited to become an FC MOBILE Founder before the game launches through the current app, without the need to re-download. Players who participate in the Founders event from August 24 – September 26, 2023, will obtain FC MOBILE Founder status to unlock benefits including special in-game player items for EA SPORTS FC MOBILE at launch. More details to be revealed here.

Further news surrounding EA SPORTS FC was shared through the milestone announcement of EA SPORTS FC™ ONLINE reaching 53M+ players across Korea, China, Thailand, and Vietnam. As the pinnacle free-to-play football gaming experience in Asia, EA SPORTS FC ONLINE will also be recognized as an official medaled discipline at the XIX Asian Games, set to be held in Hangzhou later this year.

EA SPORTS FC MOBILE and EA SPORTS FC ONLINE will join EA SPORTS FC™ 24 in marking a new beginning for the future of football to connect hundreds of millions of fans through console, mobile, online and esports products.