Strinova is a third-person hero shooter coming out this week, and its recent closed beta functioned more like an open beta despite the label. Its anime art style caught my eye, so I decided to register and try it out. While this hero shooter had much in common with others in the genre, I thoroughly enjoyed the new mechanics it introduced.
This new third-person shooter from iDreamSky has elements players of Counter-Strike 2, Overwatch and Valorant will find familiar, such as game modes and Agent roles. However, the game sets itself apart by implementing a mechanic called “Stringify,” allowing Agents to turn from 3D into paper-thin 2D models.
Stringify allows Agents to avoid gunfire, climb up walls and even glide through the air, but they can’t shoot or use abilities while Stringified. This mechanic allows for possibilities like chambering sniper rifle rounds while minimizing one’s hitbox and traversing walls mid-gunfight. It was incredibly entertaining to move around like this, but it isn’t so over-the-top like how some Call of Duty games and Titanfall implement movement mechanics. Spamming glides or sprints won’t do much good.
Each Agent has unique abilities and primary weapons, while secondary weapons and grenades can be swapped out. You have many familiar roles like snipers, designated marksmen with semi-automatic rifles, mid-range assault units and close-quarters-focused brawlers armed with shotguns. The abilities range from defensive supports to lone-wolf offensive kits, though Strinova doesn’t encourage engaging groups of enemies alone due to a longer time to kill.
My favorite Agent from the open beta is Meredith (image below), a mid-range assault Agent who can glide in mid-air longer due to a time-slowing mechanic. Her gunplay feels almost inspired by Warframe’s Zephyr, who also has extended airtime. Meredith also has area denial abilities that apply debuffs, most significantly with her Ultimate Skill that drains HP temporarily while limiting vision.
Jeremy Gan for Engadget
Another standout is Audrey, whose ability turns her into a stationary turret and lets her fire her machine gun without recoil or reloading. However, you’ll want to watch out for overheating. She has a limited shield that blocks some incoming fire while aiming down the sights — but there’s a catch. Despite being a bullet hose, she’s vulnerable to a single sniper headshot, and a shotgun user can take her out quickly before she enters turret mode, which has a longer startup animation.
There were four game modes in the open beta: team deathmatch, team arena, escort, and demolition. Escort is similar to what Overwatch offers, which has an attacking team escorting a payload to the goal. Demolition is basically competitive Counter-Strike. Team deathmatch has five teams of three fighting each other, while team arena has a 7v7 format. In the last two game modes, Ultimate Skills are disabled.
Based on my experience, Strinova has a longer time to kill, which forces players to be more tactical, especially when everyone can use Stringify to move around. I was forced to ditch my highly aggressive playstyle and employ proper movement and peeking to ensure I survived gunfights. Since each Agent gets to turn 2D, glide and climb walls, there are plenty of ways to get the drop on opponents.
Jeremy Gan for Engadget
Strinova ran smoothly on my gaming laptop, reaching 120FPS easily and rarely dropping many frames. However, there was a glaring bug in which my A key was perceived as being held down. The only way to “fix” was to pause or unplug my keyboard. I usually had to perform the latter, and it was rather annoying to deal with, though hopefully it’s something that gets worked out by release.
I definitely enjoyed playing the Strinova open beta, and the game is set to come out on November 21. There are plenty of other cool things in the game, but the combat absolutely stands out. I don’t play that many hero shooters, but this one is like a diamond in the rough to me.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/strinovas-2d-stringify-mechanic-breathes-some-new-life-into-hero-shooters-140043155.html?src=rss
MSI's AMD EPYC™ 9005 Series server platforms offer high-density, energy-efficient solutions for modern data centers, optimizing performance and scalability.
Apple has rolled out updates for its operating systems, which come with security fixes for vulnerabilities that may have already been used to target its customers. The updates are now available for Macs, iPhones, iPads, the Vision Pro and the Safari browser. In its notes, Apple revealed that the security patches will fix bugs affecting WebKit, the rendering engine Safari uses, and JavaScriptCore, which runs JavaScript code on macOS and iOS devices.
If JavaScriptCore is fooled into processing "maliciously crafted web content," it could execute arbitrary codes, Apple explained. Meanwhile, WebKit could be exploited for cross site scripting attacks if it gets tricked into running malicious content. The company said it's aware of a report that the vulnerabilities could've been actively exploited on Intel-based Mac systems. According to TechCrunch, the bugs are zero-day vulnerabilities, as Apple had no knowledge of their existence when they were exploited. Researchers from Google's Threat Analysis Group were reportedly the ones who discovered the vulnerabilities. The group is known for detecting and analyzing government-backed hacking and attacks.
Apple didn't say how many devices had been attacked using exploits taking advantage of the bugs, and it didn't say if any information was stolen from the targets. Mac, iPad and iPhones users may want to check their devices for the latest updates, though, so they can install the security fixes as soon as possible.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/apple-patches-vulnerabilities-used-to-target-intel-based-macs-133027514.html?src=rss
The One UI 6 Watch Update is poised to transform the user experience for a wide array of Galaxy Watch devices. This groundbreaking update brings a wealth of new features and enhancements, previously exclusive to the innovative Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch7, to older models such as the Galaxy Watch6, Galaxy Watch5, and Galaxy […]
The UK government is expected to launch a parliamentary inquiry into the roll of social media in summer riots, particularly around the use of generative AI, The Guardian reported. As part of that, MPs (members of Parliament) wish to cross-examine X owner Elon Musk, along with senior executives from Meta and TikTok, as part of a Commons science and technology select committee social media inquiry.
"[Musk] has very strong views on multiple aspects of this," said Labour chair of the select committee, Chi Onwurah. "I would certainly like the opportunity to cross-examine him to see … how he reconciles his promotion of freedom of expression with his promotion of pure disinformation. [The committee will] get to the bottom of the links between social media algorithms, generative AI, and the spread of harmful or false content."
The government is looking into the use of fake images created by generative AI, often containing Islamophobic content, which were widely shared in social media posts on Facebook and X. Such posts may have inflamed riots last August that took place after three schoolgirls were murdered. MPs are also looking into big tech business models that "encourage the spread of content that can mislead and harm."
Musk, who may soon have a large role in the US government under incoming president Trump, has criticized the UK government and isn't likely to attend. During the riots in August he said: “Civil war is inevitable," and on Monday stated that "Britain is going full Stalin."
In December, UK regulator Ofcom will publish new rules as part of the Online Safety Act. With the new regulations, it's likely that social media platforms will be forced prevent the spread of illegal materials such as CSAM and survey activities that could stir up violence. Companies like X and Facebook will then be required to remove any illegal material.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/uk-government-will-summon-elon-musk-as-part-of-social-media-inquiry-130004409.html?src=rss
LEGO is a beloved pastime for people of all ages. In recent times it has transcended from a basic building toy to a tool for artistic creativity and expression. These iconic bricks are used by LEGO builders all over the world to create fascinating figures and structures. They serve as an exciting platform for creativity and imaginative play. LEGO enthusiasts have been creating intricate and fascinating masterpieces – ranging from cute cottages to pop culture-inspired structures.
We have curated a collection of ten impressive LEGO creations, each one is a testament to exceptional design and meticulous craftsmanship. These unique builds are visually interesting, while also boasting the limitless potential of LEGO as a creative tool. Whether you are a devoted LEGO aficionado or a newbie exploring the vibrant LEGO universe, you will discover something extraordinary and inspiring in this collection of LEGO builds.
1. LEGO Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird
This LEGO model of the SR-71 captures the original aircraft’s spirit perfectly. The model is meticulously crafted and adopts the SR-71’s sleek and elongated form. It features a sharply defined nose and sweeping wings. The model also includes functional flaps, retractable landing gear, and a fully actualized cockpit. Each piece was created to honor the original’s impressive design.
The SR-71 model was created by an aerospace engineering student by the name of ‘Buds 234’, and it showcases technical appreciation and a meticulous eye for detail. This MOC goes beyond a typical LEGO build, creating an image that is captivating and yet true to the original SR-71. The complete model is supported by a base with a plaque detailing the SR-71’s key specifications.
2. LEGO Cataclaws
Called Cataclaws, this new icon by LEGO was launched right in time for the holidays! It is designed to become a “CAT-alyst” for play. The furry creature was born from the minds of children, to remind the young and the old that there is no limit to how creatively we can use our LEGO bricks. Cataclaws is a tuxedo cat wearing a red and white beanie that will push people to play around the holidays, encouraging them to get into the holiday mood.
The LEGO feline was introduced in a short film, where he goes on an adventure around the city to turn boring situations into playful and fun ones. You’ll see 20 products and builds in the video, and there are also a few mini Cataclaws builds in the video if you’re in the mood to play Spot the Cataclaws!
3. LEGO Rolex Submariner
The world of Rolex has just met the world of LEGO in this stylish and contemporary build – the LEGO Rolex Submariner. It is a sophisticated art model created for a more refined and picky audience. The Submariner’s “super’ case was transformed into a lovely LEGO form, creating an eye-catching piece, that makes for some wonderful home decor.
It is blessed with a signed brevet crown, which perfectly represents the iconic component of the Submariner, shining a light on its luxurious heritage. A functional and fully operating rotating bezel mimics the functionality and utility of the original Submariner watch.
4. LEGO The Marvel X-Men: The X-Mansion set
The Marvel X-Men: The X-Manion set includes iconic characters from the X-Men 97 animated series including Professor X, Jean Grey’s new avatar, Iceman, Bishop, Gambit, Magneto, Storm, Wolverine, Cyclops, and Rogue. The set comprises of a modular two-floor building with six individual sections that can be removed with ease.
Many LEGO building sets are open from the back, but this one is closed from all sides. The interiors are completely furnished, and they include the Cerebro, Jean Grey’s lab, and also the Danger Room! The building is guarded by a huge Sentinel robot, offering some powerful protection, if your other LEGO action figures decide to stage an attack.
5. LEGO Coachella Pyramid
Daft Punk’s 2006 Coachella set achieved iconic status, and it is still remembered even 2 decades later. The Coachella Pyramid is an important part of music history, and Robotrock built a LEGO set to do full justice to it. They developed a 2000-brick recreation of that moment. The set includes two artists standing on a colorful pyramid-shaped stage. Lights have been integrated inside the pyramid, and they are glowing as the duo performs music.
The two artists are dressed in robot-shaped clothing, and they are perched on the platform, working on their electronic console, creating, remixing, and performing their music. “This project began in 2020 as a fun father-son collaboration, growing into something epic as we found ourselves needing a creative escape during lockdown,” says Robotrock. “Both huge Daft Punk fans, this build is a fusion of 2 passions. I spent my teenage years listening to Homework on my Walkman, while my son’s 1st favorite baby song was Get Lucky. It felt only natural to blend our love for Daft Punk’s music with our love for LEGO. My then 8-year-old son started with a prototype built from the bricks we had at home, and I expanded on it digitally.”
6. LEGO Harry Potter Advent Calendar
The holiday season is brewing up, and they are a magical time. But this season, LEGO is making it even more special with a Harry Potter Advent Calendar. This calendar makes it extra magical, as it counts down the days till Christmas from the 1st of December. It offers a creative and amusing twist on a classic and age-old tradition. This one has something special up its sleeve!
Advent calendars make the Christmas countdown extra special by providing a new treat each day. But instead of offering the typical chocolates or tiny trinkets, this set delivers a daily building adventure that perfectly captures the beauty and charm of the Wizarding World, gifting you a lovely surprise behind every door.
7. LEGO ‘The Eras of Taylor Swift’
We finally have a LEGO set for all the Swifties in the house! Celebrate your love for Taylor and LEGO with this 1,410-piece display model that beautifully replicates the iconic poster from the Taylor Swift Eras tour. It captures Taylor’s first ten albums – ranging from her debut album “Taylor Swift” to “Midnights”.
What makes this build even more exciting is, that if you remove each of the ten album panels, you can access a Taylor Swift minifigure, and an accessory inspired by that particular era. The various Taylor minifigures include Taylor in her iconic teal dress and guitar for her debut album, and Taylor wearing an outfit inspired by the “You Belong With Me” music video.
8. LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar
LEGO has been making Star Wars-themed sets for almost 25 years. And with the holiday season around the corner, they’ve created something that all LEGO + Star Wars lovers will definitely want to have! This Official 2024 Advent Calendar features a Star Wars theme, and it is truly selling like hotcakes, with almost 60,000 units already sold.
The set is interactive and buildable, created for both kids and adults. It is equipped with new Star Wars minifigures and vehicles that can be assembled each day, leading up to Christmas day! It is a 368-piece LEGO set and it includes miniature versions of the Holiday Princess Lia, Mandalorian Gauntlet, Jabba’s Sail Barge, Emperor’s Shuttle, Praetorian Guard, Super Battle Droid, and many more.
9. LEGO Turing Machine
The Turing Machine was technically the theoretical predecessor to the computer that helped the Allied powers win World War II. A Turing Machine is essentially any machine that is able to process algorithms, and a LEGO genius recently managed to build the first operational Turing Machine made entirely from LEGO bricks.
This LEGO build isn’t simply a decorative or sculptural model, but an actual device that can compute algorithms. And what’s even better is that it does so without electricity! The model is quite tangible, built on the idea that a machine can compute any algorithm as long as the right instructions are given. The setup includes a physical tape and a moveable “head” that reads, writes, and moves across the tape.
10. LEGO Linguini & Remi
Pixar’s Ratatouille movie featured the iconic duo Linguini and Remy. And they’ve finally been captured in the super adorable BrickHeadz style. The cute LEGO set features the two characters – Linguini is holding his chef’s hat, while Remy is standing beside him. Both of them look as if they’re about to cook up something tasty!
The LEGO set perfectly captures and reflects their heartwarming bond and rather quirky and dynamic bond. LEGO builder Altstuff created the set with the intention of building a physical representation of Linguini and Remi’s unusual and endearing bond.
The Prusa CORE One 3D printer has been unveiled introducing a fully enclosed CoreXY mechanism that improves both speed and precision to new heights. This innovative model is engineered for effortless setup, catering to both newcomers and experienced users alike, allowing for rapid initiation of printing projects. The printer’s robust steel exoskeleton ensures exceptional durability, […]
If you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with Excel’s traditional Pivot Tables, you know the frustration of hitting their limitations. They’re great for basic tasks but can leave you scratching your head when faced with complex calculations or the need to integrate multiple data sources. It’s like trying to paint a masterpiece with only a few […]
The Department of Justice is reportedly planning to make Google sell its Chrome browser to address its search monopoly. It’s in response to a 2020 lawsuit filed by the DOJ and several US states that was finally ruled upon in August. Google has, naturally, said such a sale would be a terrible idea and would harm American competitiveness in the tech industry. I’m more curious about how much inherent value Chrome has without the backing of its parent company.
Traveling can be one of life’s most enriching experiences, but let’s face it, the wrong backpack can turn an exciting adventure into a logistical nightmare. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or planning your first big trip, finding a backpack that fits your needs is crucial. With 2025 on the horizon, the market is brimming with […]
