Dead Cells developer Motion Twin dropped one of the first eye-popping trailers of the Game Awards 2023 (in the pre-show, no less). The visually striking Windblown is billed as “a lightning-fast action roguelike,” bringing “a whole new level of speed to the action rogue-like genre.”
Windblown takes place in The Ark, a floating village in the sky, full of “innocent souls.” It orbits the deadly Vortex with its army of Sentinels, as they threaten to “devour” the protagonists’ aerial home. Playing solo or multiplayer, you’ll control characters called Leapers, who “absorb the memories of the fallen warriors who came before, learning how to master the fighting styles of their predecessors to unleash their full potential.”
The game’s blurb invites you to “find your rhythm” in the fast-paced combat, which the trailer appears to back up. Both its cutscenes and gameplay use a cel-shaded art style that should at least comfort you with plenty of eye candy as you die 20 times in a row.
Windblown is scheduled to arrive in early access on PC in 2024. You can add it to your Steam wishlist now.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/windblown-is-the-next-game-from-the-creators-of-dead-cells-012941545.html?src=rss
Dead Cells developer Motion Twin dropped one of the first eye-popping trailers of the Game Awards 2023 (in the pre-show, no less). The visually striking Windblown is billed as “a lightning-fast action roguelike,” bringing “a whole new level of speed to the action rogue-like genre.”
Windblown takes place in The Ark, a floating village in the sky, full of “innocent souls.” It orbits the deadly Vortex with its army of Sentinels, as they threaten to “devour” the protagonists’ aerial home. Playing solo or multiplayer, you’ll control characters called Leapers, who “absorb the memories of the fallen warriors who came before, learning how to master the fighting styles of their predecessors to unleash their full potential.”
The game’s blurb invites you to “find your rhythm” in the fast-paced combat, which the trailer appears to back up. Both its cutscenes and gameplay use a cel-shaded art style that should at least comfort you with plenty of eye candy as you die 20 times in a row.
Windblown is scheduled to arrive in early access on PC in 2024. You can add it to your Steam wishlist now.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/windblown-is-the-next-game-from-the-creators-of-dead-cells-012941545.html?src=rss
Atlus and its subsidiary Studio Zero have finally released a new trailer for the forthcoming RPG Metaphor: ReFantazio at The Game Awards. The title’s being helmed by many of the talented folks behind Persona 5, including director Katsura Hashino and composer Shoji Meguro. The primary difference? This game takes place in a fantasy setting, with nary a high school or talking cat in sight.
The game was originally teased earlier this year, but all we had was a title and a small announcement trailer. Now this trailer is the real deal, with full voice acting, cinematics and plenty of actual gameplay. A video game trailer with actual gameplay, what a novel concept.
As for that gameplay, the combat looks similar to Persona, though without the use of the titular beasties. The game is populated by a diverse cast of characters and if you stare at the menus you can see some tell-tale signs of a robust social element at play, another similarity to the Persona series.
There’s also something of a steampunk vibe running throughout, which is always a nifty choice for a video game. Who knows, maybe there’s a sinister blue door somewhere in the world populated by a creepy old man. Metaphor: ReFantazio — The Royal Tournament, a name Square Enix would love, launches in fall of next year on Xbox X/S and PC.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/heres-a-new-trailer-for-that-cool-looking-fantasy-rpg-from-the-persona-5-team-012127188.html?src=rss
Atlus and its subsidiary Studio Zero have finally released a new trailer for the forthcoming RPG Metaphor: ReFantazio at The Game Awards. The title’s being helmed by many of the talented folks behind Persona 5, including director Katsura Hashino and composer Shoji Meguro. The primary difference? This game takes place in a fantasy setting, with nary a high school or talking cat in sight.
The game was originally teased earlier this year, but all we had was a title and a small announcement trailer. Now this trailer is the real deal, with full voice acting, cinematics and plenty of actual gameplay. A video game trailer with actual gameplay, what a novel concept.
As for that gameplay, the combat looks similar to Persona, though without the use of the titular beasties. The game is populated by a diverse cast of characters and if you stare at the menus you can see some tell-tale signs of a robust social element at play, another similarity to the Persona series.
There’s also something of a steampunk vibe running throughout, which is always a nifty choice for a video game. Who knows, maybe there’s a sinister blue door somewhere in the world populated by a creepy old man. Metaphor: ReFantazio — The Royal Tournament, a name Square Enix would love, launches in fall of next year on Xbox X/S and PC.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/heres-a-new-trailer-for-that-cool-looking-fantasy-rpg-from-the-persona-5-team-012127188.html?src=rss
Exodus is the first game from Archetype Entertainment, a studio established by Wizards of the Coast in 2019 and staffed by former developers from BioWare, 343 Industries, Naughty Dog and other AAA establishments. Exodus is a big and bold sci-fi RPG that deals with time dilation, the idea that time passes more slowly than we're used to during high-velocity travel, causing interstellar explorers to outlive their friends and family back home.
In Exodus, humanity has been forced to abandon Earth and establish a new civilization in a hostile galaxy. Players are the Traveler, a person tasked with exploring far-off solar systems for advanced alien technology. What the Traveler counts in days, the rest of humanity experiences in decades. With this conceit, players' choices will cause butterfly effects to ripple across humanity's new planet, particularly in the lives of their own loved ones, and the Traveler will watch these play out over generations.
Player choice is a big part of Exodus, affecting individual combat moments and helping to shape the overall story arc. The game includes alien weaponry and classic gunplay, a deep progression system, and a swathe of companion characters (yes, romance is on the table). Also, Matthew McConaughey is in Exodus in some way, and he presented the game at The Game Awards, unveiling its first trailer.
Archetype, a division of Wizards of the Coast, is packed with stellar sci-fi video game talent. It includes studio head James Ohlen (Baldur's Gate, Dragon Age: Origins), executive producer Chad Robertson (Star Wars: The Old Republic), director Chris King (Halo 4), and narrative director Drew Karpyshyn (Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2). The focus on time dilation and personal loss in Exodus underscores the team's desire to build an emotional, narrative-driven game, with action as an engaging but supplementary feature — and they have the résumés to pull that off.
Exodus is in development for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/exodus-is-a-new-sci-fi-rpg-from-former-bioware-343-and-naughty-dog-developers-011433508.html?src=rss
Exodus is the first game from Archetype Entertainment, a studio established by Wizards of the Coast in 2019 and staffed by former developers from BioWare, 343 Industries, Naughty Dog and other AAA establishments. Exodus is a big and bold sci-fi RPG that deals with time dilation, the idea that time passes more slowly than we're used to during high-velocity travel, causing interstellar explorers to outlive their friends and family back home.
In Exodus, humanity has been forced to abandon Earth and establish a new civilization in a hostile galaxy. Players are the Traveler, a person tasked with exploring far-off solar systems for advanced alien technology. What the Traveler counts in days, the rest of humanity experiences in decades. With this conceit, players' choices will cause butterfly effects to ripple across humanity's new planet, particularly in the lives of their own loved ones, and the Traveler will watch these play out over generations.
Player choice is a big part of Exodus, affecting individual combat moments and helping to shape the overall story arc. The game includes alien weaponry and classic gunplay, a deep progression system, and a swathe of companion characters (yes, romance is on the table). Also, Matthew McConaughey is in Exodus in some way, and he presented the game at The Game Awards, unveiling its first trailer.
Archetype, a division of Wizards of the Coast, is packed with stellar sci-fi video game talent. It includes studio head James Ohlen (Baldur's Gate, Dragon Age: Origins), executive producer Chad Robertson (Star Wars: The Old Republic), director Chris King (Halo 4), and narrative director Drew Karpyshyn (Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2). The focus on time dilation and personal loss in Exodus underscores the team's desire to build an emotional, narrative-driven game, with action as an engaging but supplementary feature — and they have the résumés to pull that off.
Exodus is in development for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/exodus-is-a-new-sci-fi-rpg-from-former-bioware-343-and-naughty-dog-developers-011433508.html?src=rss
The Game Awards got off to a flying start with a string of fascinating announcements during the pre-show. One of the freshly revealed games that's coming your way soon is Thrasher, which is from Brian Gibson, the artist and composer behind the 2016 nightmare factory Thumper.
Gibson (who is also the bass player in the band Lightning Bolt) teamed up with Rock Band VR and Fuser alum Mike Mandel to form Puddle Games. Gibson handled Thrasher's art and music, while Mandel was responsible for coding and research and development. The pair collaborated on the design.
Thrasher will see you take control of a space eel at the dawn of time. You'll need to master "fast-paced gesture controls" to evolve this creature into a so-called megabeast. While it might not be a direct sequel to Thumper, the trailer suggests it'll share some of the previous game's DNA. It seems like there will once again be mind-melting visuals to match a pulsating, anxious soundtrack. I'm terrified already.
Thrasher is coming to Meta Quest and other virtual reality platforms in 2024. It'll arrive on consoles and PC at a later date.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/thrasher-looks-like-another-nightmare-inducing-game-from-the-artist-behind-thumper-010802152.html?src=rss
The Game Awards got off to a flying start with a string of fascinating announcements during the pre-show. One of the freshly revealed games that's coming your way soon is Thrasher, which is from Brian Gibson, the artist and composer behind the 2016 nightmare factory Thumper.
Gibson (who is also the bass player in the band Lightning Bolt) teamed up with Rock Band VR and Fuser alum Mike Mandel to form Puddle Games. Gibson handled Thrasher's art and music, while Mandel was responsible for coding and research and development. The pair collaborated on the design.
Thrasher will see you take control of a space eel at the dawn of time. You'll need to master "fast-paced gesture controls" to evolve this creature into a so-called megabeast. While it might not be a direct sequel to Thumper, the trailer suggests it'll share some of the previous game's DNA. It seems like there will once again be mind-melting visuals to match a pulsating, anxious soundtrack. I'm terrified already.
Thrasher is coming to Meta Quest and other virtual reality platforms in 2024. It'll arrive on consoles and PC at a later date.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/thrasher-looks-like-another-nightmare-inducing-game-from-the-artist-behind-thumper-010802152.html?src=rss
Back up your systems, store all your photos, run AI models, host websites, or even have your own free streaming service, the $500 ZimaCube gives you your personal (and secure) cloud server without those pesky monthly subscription fees.
Looking almost like a beefy CPU that sits on your desk, ZimaCube is a NAS (network-attached storage) device that brings cloud computing to your tabletop. Rather than relying on Google, Amazon, Microsoft, or Apple to store all your data remotely (where your data can be accessed by companies, advertisers, governments, or worse… hackers), ZimaCube is your own personal cloud server that stores all your data in the secure confines of your home or office, but still allows you to access it anywhere on the go. Powered by a 10-core 12th-gen Intel processor, the ZimaCube offers up to 64 GB of RAM and has 6 whopping HDD bays for storing up to 120 TB of data. This basically gives you a powerful cloud server that can take backups of all your devices, host websites, run your own personal streaming service using locally downloaded files (goodbye Netflix), or better still, run your own personal AI model or GPT by hooking up an external GPU. In a world plagued by governments snooping on private citizens, and by companies looking to make a quick buck by either charging you monthly fees to store your data or by selling them to advertisers, ZimaCube lets you take back ownership of your private information, whether it’s photos on your smartphone or all the work files on your laptop/desktop.
At its core, the ZimaCube offers a massive storage capacity of up to 164 terabytes, with a unique 6+1 bay design accommodating a mix of six hard disk drives (HDDs) and four solid-state drives (SSDs). This blend ensures ample storage space for large files and speedy access to frequently used data, striking a balance between vast storage and fast performance. This makes it ideal for storing everything from important documents to extensive collections of digital assets like photos and videos, all securely in one place and accessible from anywhere.
ZimaCube provides a centralized hub of up to 164 TB for storing and cataloging all your project files, media assets, and documents. Its unique 6+1 bay design provides extra flexibility by offering HDD, SSHD, and SSD storage options.
Aside from storing backups of your selfies and videos (after all, the ZimaCube is capable of so much more), you additionally have the option of storing work files and data dumps, and directly editing them over the cloud instead of needing to download them to your device. Powering the ZimaCube is a 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, ensuring efficient data management, particularly for tasks requiring substantial computing power like video editing. This is complemented by cutting-edge connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 and 2.5GbE networking ports, facilitating rapid data transfer and smooth workflow management. For professionals relying on demanding applications, the ZimaCube’s extensive storage capacity, robust processor, and advanced connectivity make it perfect for content creators and multimedia experts who require a reliable storage solution that can keep pace with their workload.
Files stored on the ZimaCube can be accessed through a multitude of ways, enabling storage, retrieval, sharing, and even collaboration. The ZimaOS provides a clean, intuitive way to manage your data, but it goes above and beyond by also being a one-stop management dashboard for your data stored on DropBox, Google Drive, etc. All your files find a home within the ZimaOS dashboard, so you don’t have to hunt across multiple accounts and devices to find files. The ‘ZSync’ feature synchronizes file versions across all devices (so any edits made to a file update everywhere), and automatic backups take the hassle out of remembering to manually backup all your data. Want to share data with team members, clients, and stakeholders? The ZimaCube’s PeerDrop feature allows you to share files with anyone through an encrypted gateway, bypassing the public cloud entirely. It also supports various tools like Nextcloud and Seafile, allowing you to share and collaborate on files with ease. You can create shared folders, set permissions, and even generate public links. This is a boon for remotely located teams and groups who need to work together on projects, regardless of their geographical locations.
Harness the desktop-class performance of NVIDIA® Quadro® and AMD Radeon Pro eGPUs for professional graphics output. With Thunderbolt 4, you can daisy chain up to six external RAID arrays together and get a jaw-dropping 1PB to your ZimaCube.
Going beyond just traditional data storage, you can even run your own private AI models directly on the ZimaCube. PCIe Gen 4 ports and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity allow you to hook up powerful external GPUs to host and run your own AI models like Stable Diffusion without splurging big bucks on a GPU farm or buying GPU credits online. Moreover, the folks behind the ZimaCube also boast the ability to privately run a GPT on your own data, allowing you to effectively ‘chat’ with your own documents to retrieve information, find files, and get an overview on lengthy run-downs without as much as opening them. The AI runs entirely locally and privately, with no data ever leaving your device.
All those technical capabilities sit in the ZimaCube’s black-box-esque design that’s crafted with a predominantly metal construction, providing robustness and efficient heat dissipation. It features a magnetic attachment system for the front-mounted panel and a durable design with multiple ventilation panels, crucial for maintaining optimal temperature. On the inside, modules plug in with LEGO-like configurability. The ZimaCube lets you customize your own server, adding modules such as a WiFi module, additional interfaces, high-speed drives, and even RAID arrays. It’s not just the hardware that’s customizable – with software options like ZimaOS, TrueNAS, and unRAID, and a community-driven range of apps and plugins, you’ve got digital flexibility too.
The ZimaCube presents two distinct variants tailored to different user needs: the Standard and Pro models. The Standard version is powered by the Intel Alder Lake-N100 processor, a competent choice for general storage and computing needs. It’s like a reliable sedan, efficient for daily tasks. On the other hand, the Pro model shifts gears with the robust 12th Gen i5-1235U core processor, akin to a sports car in the processor world, offering enhanced performance and handling more demanding tasks with ease. Both models champion significant storage capacity and connectivity options, but the Pro model stands out with its higher RAM support and processing power, making it suitable for power users who need that extra bit of computational muscle. The ZimaCube Standard starts at an early-bird price of $499 (VAT-free), while the Pro is similarly discounted with a $900 price tag (the HDDs need to be purchased separately). It ships globally with a 19V 220W power adapter, universal plugs to fit a variety of international power sockets, and a 1-year warranty.
Look, I know life can get hectic and work can be super exhausting. Our schedules are quite taxing, and it can take a veritable toll on us, especially on our mental health. Taking care of our well-being has never been more essential, considering how troubling life can get. As much as we tend to pay attention to our physical well-being, it’s time to do the same for our mental health. However, it can be a task to remove some time from your day to actually focus on your well-being, hence having a couple of products to help you seal the deal is always a boon! These are the essentials you need to achieve a mindful and relaxed lifestyle. From a stress-free aroma diffuser to a night lamp that improves your circadian cycle, these are the products you need to relax and unwind.
1. Buda Ball
The Buda Ball is a uniquely designed stress-relief tool that levitates and rotates using magnetic levitation technology. It serves as a visual reminder to stay present and mindful.
Why is it noteworthy?
The ball’s horizontal and vertical levitation creates a soothing, hypnotic visual experience, aiming to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Enhances relaxation and mindfulness with its hypnotic movement
Minimalistic and modern aesthetics suitable for various spaces
What we dislike
Requires a stable, uninterrupted power supply for levitation
2. Japanese Lantern Candle
Designed to resemble a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, this Japanese lantern candle features a unique pillar shape and is the perfect item to pamper yourself with on the days you need some de-stressing.
The Japanese lantern candle provides a contemporary take on an otherwise iconic Japanese design. It features a minimal design, enabling it to merge with modern living spaces, and offers a tranquil and relaxing glow. The calming influence of candlelight and the tranquility of Japanese design merge to build a mindful ambiance.
What we like
Made using a patented non-melting wax which imparts the candle with a beautiful translucency
Created with detailed craftsmanship
What we dislike
There is a risk of fire hazard, considering it is a candle, so it should be used with caution around children and pets
3. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser
This battery-free aroma diffuser is designed to let you take a relaxing breath, without the environment being harmed in any manner. You can harness the power of a single candle with this minimal and serene aroma diffuser which makes use of simple physics and science.
The battery-free aroma diffuser uses something as simple as scent to create a relaxing and peaceful environment. It showcases a smooth return to simplicity and natural elements in the mindfulness experience.
What we like
Has a compact and comfortable size that is easy to use
Encourages an eco-friendly ethos
4. MOTION ZERO
MOTION ZERO brings the zen-like tranquility and peace of Japanese gardens to your workdesk. It is designed to be a functional art piece that is compact and tiny enough to perfectly fit on your desk.
Why is it noteworthy?
It is built from metal and features a ripped base, three chrome ball bearings, and a shimmering chrome egg. MOTION ZERO tactfully engages your fingers, eyes, and mind, helping you to de-stress and calm down, while also enabling you to focus more and boost your productivity and memory.
What we like
Allows you to reach a meditative state without hyper-conventional techniques
What we dislike
Will not appeal to those who prefer a more hands-on or natural environment for their meditative activities
5. Harmony Fireplace
A bioethanol brass fireplace that combines modern aesthetics with eco-friendly functionality. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, it represents a chic and sustainable choice for those seeking the warmth of a real fire without the environmental impact.
Offers a clean, eco-conscious way to enjoy the charm of a real fire.
What we like
Contemporary brass design that complements modern interiors
Use of bioethanol, aligning with environmental sensibilities
Versatility for indoor and outdoor settings
The tranquil ambiance created by the flickering flame
What we dislike
Heat output is less robust compared to traditional fireplaces
Bioethanol, while eco-friendly, can be costly
6. Terrarium Incense Burners
The Terrarium collection revamps how an incense holder looks, and how it can also be used as a decorative item. The incense burners feature a unique sculpted design and are made of blackish concrete.
Why is it noteworthy?
The unique design guides the smoke from the backflow incense cones, making it quite an unusual incense cone, where the plume moves downwards rather than upwards. It comes in three designs, inspired by mountains, trees, and volcanic lakes.
What we like
The incense burners feature miniature eco-systems within them, which are inspired by nature
What we dislike
They are larger than the typical incense burners and could be difficult to position in your home
7. ASMR Zen Ball
Dubbed the ASMR Zen Ball, this little product fuses natural and engineered elements to provide a calming and sensory experience to users.
The ASMR Zen Ball is made from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, allowing the device to double up as a fidget toy while providing an interactive manner to engage and connect with the natural energy of the earth.
What we like
Functions as a fidget toy, while also providing utility for sensory stimulation and aromatherapy when used with essential oils
Encourages relaxation and mental focus
What we dislike
Although it is intended to be placed on a work desk, besides sensory benefits, it has no practical application on a desk
8. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set
Dubbed the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this relaxation-inducing design not only recreates the smells but also the overall experience of a memorable and captivating outdoor fire.
The mini hardwood is collected from branches that would otherwise have been thrown away, and they give off a comforting smoky smell when they are burnt on the stainless steel miniature oven. You simply need to add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt.Hakusan trees, and you’ve got an amazing and authentic outdoor scent,
What we like
By adding a piece of solid fuel, you can utilize the stove as a cooking or heating tool
What we dislike
Not as straightforward as conventional diffusers
9. BIOS SkyView Wellness Lamp
If you’re someone who doesn’t often get a good night’s sleep and finds themselves feeling sleepy and groggy through the day, then the BIOS SkyView wellness table lamp is the ultimate product for you!
Why is it noteworthy?
This minimal home accessory provides an array of health benefits such as increased alertness, and boosted mood. It promotes a good night’s sleep while strengthening your circadian rhythm and allowing you to feel energized.
What we like
Helps you wake up feeling refreshed and alter
Utilizes violet-blue light to create calmness to support deep sleep
What we dislike
Will occupy a substantial amount of real estate on your bedside table
10. Stress-free Aroma Diffuser
The pretty Stress-free Aroma Diffuser is all you need to sit back and relax, while you’re breathing in an amazing mix of aromatic blends selected to soothe your mind and bring you some peace.
The diffuser creates its own gentle breeze, allowing the aroma to softly and evenly disperse wherever you’re sitting, with a porcelain filter soaking up the oil to provide a long-lasting experience.
What we like
The polished base provides an intriguing contrast to the organic-looking porcelain disc, creating a sophisticated decoration piece
Handcrafted porcelain filter from Hida, Japan
Intuitive operation with a battery-powered fan
What we dislike
The size of the diffuser limits its effectiveness in very large rooms
Pro eGPUs for professional graphics output. With Thunderbolt 4, you can daisy chain up to six external RAID arrays together and get a jaw-dropping 1PB to your ZimaCube.
