Category Archives: Gaming

Gaming, Lifestyle, News

Sony Introduces Pulse Elite and Pulse Explore with Playstation Link – Immersive Audio for Remote Play

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Sony is known for pushing the boundaries of gaming, and their latest audio products – the Pulse Elite wireless headset and the Pulse Explore wireless earbuds – are no exception.

Pulse Elite Wireless Headset: Over-Ear Immersion for Remote Play

The Pulse Elite is Sony’s brand-new wireless headset designed to take your gaming audio to the next level. One of its standout features is lossless audio, ensuring that you’ll hear every detail with pristine clarity. But that’s not all; it comes equipped with a retractable boom mic enhanced with AI-powered noise rejection. This feature intelligently filters out background noise, keeping your communication crystal clear even in noisy environments.

  • Playsation Pulse Elite 1
  • Playsation Pulse Elite 2

To add to its convenience, Pulse Elite comes with a charging hanger for easy storage and quick charging, ensuring you’re always ready for your next gaming session. The premium design and comfortable over-ear fit make it perfect for long gaming sessions. The only downside? It requires a USB dongle for use with the PlayStation 5, so keep track of that small but essential piece of tech.

The Pulse Elite is built for audiophiles according to Sony, and that’s why they’ve equipped the Pulse Elite with custom-designed planar magnetic drivers. These drivers are usually found in premium headphones used by sound engineers, guaranteeing an audiophile-level listening experience.

Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds: Gaming Meets Multitasking

For those who prefer a more portable audio experience, Sony unveiled the Pulse Explore wireless earbuds. These earbuds offer a unique blend of lossless audio quality and low-latency performance, making them perfect for gaming.

But what sets these earbuds apart is their ability to multitask. They can connect to the PlayStation 5 via a USB dongle and simultaneously link to a secondary device via Bluetooth. This means you can stay immersed in your game while taking a phone call or listening to your favourite podcast on the side.

  • Playstation Pulse Explore 1
  • Playstation Pulse Explore 2

Like the Pulse Elite, the Pulse Explore also features custom-designed planar magnetic drivers for an unmatched listening experience. Plus, their futuristic design complements the PlayStation 5’s aesthetics.

Both Pulse Elite and Pulse Explore leverage PlayStation Link, Sony’s proprietary wireless audio technology. This technology offers low latency, lossless audio and seamless switching between multiple PlayStation Link hosts, such as the PS5 with the USB adapter and PlayStation Portal.

The USB adapter included with each headset and earbuds is required for PlayStation Link when using them with the PS5. This adapter will also be available for purchase separately and can be used on PC and Mac, ensuring that you can enjoy the same lossless, low-latency audio experience on your computer.

Pricing & Availability

These two audio devices are a new addition to Sony’s growing slate of PlayStation accessories. Together with the PlayStation Portal, Sony seems to be carving out an ecosystem that centres around the console.

Sony hasn’t revealed availability details just yet. However, the Pulse Explore will be priced at USD$199.99 (MYR932.42), EUR219.99 (MYR1,101.99), GBP199.99 (MYR1,171.15) and JPY29,980 (MYR949.36); while the Pulse Elite is priced at USD$149.99 (MYR699.29), EUR149.99 (MYR750.37), GBP129.99(MYR760.10) and JPY18,980 (MYR600.87).

Gaming, Lifestyle, News

Play Your PS5 Games Remotely with the PlayStation Portal

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While Sony might not be making dedicated gaming handhelds anymore (RIP PS Vita), their commitment to delivering top-notch gaming experiences remains unwavering. Sony’s Remote Play feature, which allows gamers to stream their console games locally, has been available for over a decade. And now, Sony is taking it to the next level with the PlayStation Portal, a device designed to bring your PS5 gaming experience wherever you go.

This handheld, teased earlier this year as Project Q, is designed to make your PS5 gaming experience portable without compromising on quality. Equipped with an impressive eight-inch 1080p LCD display, it can stream games at up to 60fps.

Playstation Portal 3

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill handheld console; it’s a dedicated remote-play device that’s ready to extend your PS5 gaming experience. Sporting controllers that mirror the design and functionality of the PS5’s DualSense controllers, the PlayStation Portal ensures you get that familiar haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, making your gaming experience seamless and consistent.

One crucial aspect that gamers often worry about when it comes to remote play is latency. Will there be a lag that ruins the experience? According to IGN’s review, the PlayStation Portal does an excellent job in this department, offering minimal latency during gameplay.

However, there’s a catch. The PlayStation Portal isn’t a standalone gaming device. Instead, it’s your gateway to streaming games from your PS5 using Wi-Fi. You can only play games that are already installed on your PS5 console; it won’t support PS VR2 games or games streamed through PlayStation Plus Premium’s cloud streaming.

Playstation Portal 1

Sony has made an interesting move in the audio department. Instead of offering Bluetooth audio support, they’re introducing their proprietary PlayStation Link wireless technology. It promises lossless, lag-free audio, but it also means the PlayStation Portal won’t work with existing wireless headsets. You’ll need Sony’s new wireless headphones and earbuds, which are launching alongside the Portal.

As for battery life, Sony is aiming for a duration similar to its DualSense controller, which typically lasts around seven to nine hours. Sony hasn’t revealed all the details yet, but they’re targeting a release “later this year.”

Pricing & Availability

The PlayStation Portal will be priced at USD$199.99 (MYR932.42), EUR219.99 (MYR1,101.99), GBP199.99 (MYR1,171.15) and JPY29,980 (MYR949.36).

Playstation Portal 2

The handheld remote play device is now available for pre-order in select markets, including the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Availability in other regions will be announced as they become available.

It will officially launch on November 15, 2023.

Gaming, News

Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED Unveiled Ahead of Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s Release

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Nintendo is hyping up its upcoming release of Super Mario Bros. Wonder with a brand new edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED. The Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED is slated for release on October 6, 2023, in select markets.

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The new edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED was revealed during the Super Mario Bros. Wonder Direct. It will be released just in time for the highly anticipated Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, set for release on October 20. For Mario fans and Nintendo enthusiasts, the new colourway might just be that push to embrace OLED technology or dive into the Nintendo Switch ecosystem.

The Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED is just… unghhhh… so pretty. The console, dock, and Joy-Con controllers are drenched in Mario’s signature red colour, with subtle details in a deeper red. The dock features a silhouette of Mario in action, while the back boasts a charming touch – a set of hidden golden coins. It’s a nod to the classic allure of Mario’s adventures.

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This design is exclusive to the OLED model of the Nintendo Switch, aligning with Nintendo’s strategy of offering themed consoles alongside major game releases. While the package doesn’t include a copy of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, it’s a perfect way to welcome Mario back in his original 2D platformer glory.

Pricing & Availability

Pre-orders are available directly through Nintendo, and fans in the UK and Australia can expect availability soon. The new Mario Red Edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED will be priced at $349.99 (MYR1,626.47).

Android, Gaming, Mobile, News

Google Play Pass Sneakily Launched in Malaysia

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Google Play Pass – the company’s answer to Apple Arcade – has made its debut in Malaysia. Play Pass will allow users access to a curated collection of mobile games free from ads and in-app purchases. Think of it like Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass for your Android phone. It currently has over a thousand games available in the catalogue on the Play Store.

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Stealthily launched earlier this week in Malaysia, the Google Play Pass costs MYR10.99 per month. Your first month, however, is free. If you opt to subscribe to the Google Play Pass for a year, you’ll be getting a 25% discount with the plan renewing for MYR99 a year. The pass is shareable with up to five family members within a family group.

With the Play Pass, users gain access to games like Monument Valley 2, Stardew Valley, and more, all without ads and in-app payments.

Gaming, News

Diablo 4’s Mother’s Blessing Weekend: Earn XP and Gold at Increased Rates

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Lilith graces Sanctuary once again this September with the Mother’s Blessing Weekend, bringing generous XP and Gold bonuses for Diablo 4 players.

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In response to player feedback on the scarcity of live-service content in Diablo 4, Blizzard Entertainment aims make it up to players with 25% increase in both Gold and XP gains. This event is set to take place from Friday, September 1 at 10:00 AM until Tuesday, September 5 at 10:00 AM PDT.

During this event, players across all World Tiers, including the Seasonal and Eternal Realms, will benefit from the boosted Gold and XP rates. To find this benefit in-game, keep an eye out for a new icon positioned next to your potion count, which signifies the enhanced rate of earning Gold and XP.

This news arrives shortly after the announcement of Diablo 4 Season 2: Season of Blood at Gamescom: Opening Night Live. Scheduled to commence on October 17, Season 2 will introduce captivating content, including a Vampire Hunter companion and vampiric powers.

As the anticipation for Season 2 builds, the Mother’s Blessing Weekend provides an opportunity for players to amass wealth and experience at an accelerated pace. Stay tuned for more updates on Diablo 4 events and developments that may enrich your gameplay.

eSports, Gaming, News

The Asia Pacific Predator League is Back! Malaysian Qualifiers Now Open for Registration

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Acer Malaysia has opened registrations for the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024, inviting Malaysian Dota 2 and Valorant eSports teams to compete for the coveted Predator Shield and a slice of the USD400,000 prize pool at the Grand Finals in Manila, Philippines.

Predator League 2024 MAIN PR Banner

With a substantial local prize pool of RM100,000, the Predator League 2024 Malaysia Qualifier welcomes teams to sign up for Dota 2 and Valorant from 30 August to 14 September 2023 through https://www.planet9.gg/.

The Malaysia Qualifier matches will occur online, while the local finals will take place at Noizucon in the KL Convention Centre from 30 September to 1 October 2023. The victors of the Predator League 2024 Malaysia Qualifier will proceed to the Grand Finals in Manila on 13 to 14 January 2024, where they’ll face off against champions from the Asia Pacific region.

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Since its inception in 2018, the Asia Pacific Predator League has served as a platform for emerging eSports talents in the region. Thousands of teams participate annually, vying for the opportunity to showcase their skills on the global Predator League stage, hosted by Acer. Acer’s consistent dedication to fostering the eSports industry through this yearly event has significantly contributed to elevating players’ careers.

Andrew Hou, President of Acer Pan Asia Pacific Operations, stated, “The Predator League reflects our ongoing commitment to nurturing the gaming community and enhancing their competitive level in the APAC region. The tournament’s global recognition has grown in recent years, and we are thrilled to bring it to Manila, which houses one of the world’s largest and most passionate eSports fanbases. We anticipate incredible gameplay from all participating teams.”

Gaming, News

KONAMI Unveils eFootball™ 2024 Gaming Update

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Celebrity Supermatch eFootball

KONAMI recently kicked off the excitement for their latest football gaming update, eFootball™ 2024 at an exclusive media event in Kuala Lumpur. For those unfamiliar with this game, it is a football simulation video game that allows players to control virtual football teams and compete in various game modes. Another game that is highly popular in this category is FIFA.

KONAMI stated that the eFootball™ will begin its transition to eFootball™ 2024 (v3.0.0) update. This update, scheduled for 4 September 2023 till 7 September 2023, aims to refresh emblems, strips, and player data for Authentic Teams in accordance with licensing agreements.

Alongside these updates, they will be conducting an in-game asset and data carryover process.

Certain In-game Assets Eligible For Carryover

KONAMI Presenters eFootball

The assets eligible for carryover encompass eFootball™ Coins, eFootball™ Points, GP, Base Team, Nominating Contracts, Chance Deals, Contract Renewals (60 Days), Contract Renewals (10 Days), Players, Managers, Training Programs, Skill Training Programs, Objectives, and various in-game settings. eFootball™ Coins and eFootball™ Points will carry over, but be mindful of expiration, especially if your account is linked to Japan.

GP and Base Team may see changes, and players can select new Base Teams if needed. Nominating Contracts, Chance Deals, and Contracts will be carried over, but remember potential expiration. Training and Skill Training Programs, Special Strips, and Standard Player Tickets will also carry over.

Regarding your Avatar and settings, they will carry over if available in v3.0.0; otherwise, they will be reset to default. Your username, country/region, date of birth, and login bonuses will carry over. Records in your Balance Sheet will be partially reset, with only the past year’s records available. Match History will be reset entirely.

Team Playstyle Level Will Be Removed

However, there will be changes in the gameplay mechanics. Team Playstyle Level will no longer be a factor, and Abilities will not be influenced by it. Players who invested Progression Points in Team Playstyle Proficiency will see these points returned. The status of Players and Managers depends on Live Updates, with Standard Players experiencing updates to affiliations and data changes.

So, gamers, if you would like to learn more about KONAMI’s large-scale maintenance to facilitate these updates, check out more details on eFootball™ official website.

Gaming, News

XBOX Game Pass Comes to NVIDIA GeForce NOW

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Gaming is quickly growing to become one of the largest industries in the world. However, gaming itself is on the verge of a revolution that could change the way we enjoy our blockbuster AAA games forever with Cloud Gaming. While not many companies have offerings, companies like NVIDIA and Microsoft are looking to cash in early with services like XBOX‘s GamePass and NVIDIA‘s GeForce NOW. NVIDIA’s GeForce NOW is about to get a little bit more interesting with XBOX’s GamePass in a new collaboration.

NVIDIA and Microsoft are further accelerating this trend with a groundbreaking partnership that extends access to Xbox’s PC Game Pass and select Microsoft Store titles to the GeForce NOW streaming platform. This partnership will bring AAA titles to a myriad of devices including Android smartphones and tablets.

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GeForce NOW members will now notice a new Xbox button on supported PC games, enabling seamless launches of titles on different devices. This integration extends to those who have purchased standalone games through the Microsoft Store or hold active subscriptions to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass. However, it’s important to note that not all PC Game Pass titles will be immediately available on the NVIDIA streaming service. While the integration is live, the complete library of Game Pass titles will be gradually introduced to GeForce NOW over time.

The synergy between NVIDIA and Microsoft reflects a commitment to enhance cloud gaming options for enthusiasts. The integration comes after Microsoft and NVIDIA solidified a decade-long Xbox games licensing agreement in response to concerns arising from Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard last year.

Among the initial wave of titles available on the service are WrestleQuest, Jumplight Odyssey, Blasphemous 2, Crusader Kings III, and No Man’s Sky. As both companies collaborate to onboard and test each game, NVIDIA assures members of a smooth streaming experience across all supported platforms, albeit with a slight delay due to testing requirements.

As cloud gaming continues to flourish, the NVIDIA and Microsoft partnership brings the Xbox PC Game Pass closer to gamers, expanding the options for an enriched gaming journey. With new games set to be added each month, this collaboration signifies a compelling leap forward in the world of cloud gaming. NVIDIA’s GeForce NOW was announced recently in Malaysia in partnership with YES 5G.

Computers, Gaming, News

Samsung’s Upping Its Gaming Offerings with a New Odyssey Neo G9 Monitor & Starfield on the Samsung Gaming Hub

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Hold onto your seats, gamers – Samsung has just dropped two new gaming monitors: the Odyssey Neo G9 57″ and Odyssey Ark 55″. Freshly unveiled at Gamescom 2023, these monitors are upping the ante for Samsung’s gaming offerings and also making things wider than ever before.

Odyssey Neo G9 57-inch: Immersion Takes Centerstage

The Odyssey Neo G9 57-inch (G95NC) boasts the world’s first Dual Ultra-High-Definition (DUHD) screen. It offers an immersive 1000R curvature that envelops users in the game or content with an expansive field of view. This monitor features Samsung’s Quantum Matrix Technology that utilises the company’s award-winning Quantum Mini LED lighting, delivering deeper blacks and brighter whites while minimising the usual blooming effect.

Dual UHD Gaming Monitor dl2

The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 comes with The VESA DisplayHDR™1000 certification. This promises vivid clarity for HDR-enabled content with details even in the darkest shades for your competitive edge and viewing pleasure. It also indicates that HDR content is displayed vividly and authentically, with accurate colours and contrast. The monitor’s impressive 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms grey-to-grey (GtG) response time minimizes blurring, enabling seamless gameplay. It comes complete with AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro technology which allows high-resolution gaming without graphical tearing and smooth transitions as well as lag-free gaming.

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(Source: Samsung) Full Specs of the Odyssey Neo G9

Connectivity options are robust, featuring VESA-certified DisplayPort (DP) 2.1, HDMI 2.1, and a USB hub. This streamlined setup caters to both gaming and multimedia needs.

Odyssey Ark 55-inch: Elevating Visual Engagement

The Odyssey Ark 55″ builds on its predecessor’s success as the world’s first 1000R curved gaming screen. With a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time, this monitor promises fluid visuals and minimal latency. The addition of Cockpit Mode introduces a fresh perspective with the Ark’s signature vertical orientation.

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Samsung’s MultiView brings the ability to view streams from the three HDMI inputs and DisplayPort 1.4 at the same time; maximising the large 55-inch display of the Ark. This new enhancement improves split-screen capabilities, providing an organized setup for focused gameplay and advanced productivity.

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(Source: Samsung) Full Specs of the Odyssey Ark

One screen to rule them all that is what the new Keyboard, Video, and Mouse (KVM) switch feature is built for. It turns the Odyssey Ark 55-inch into your command center, making it your central interface for multiple connected devices. It enhances multitasking across various devices, simplifying control with a single mouse and keyboard setup.

Gaming Beyond the Monitor: “Starfield” on Samsung Gaming Hub

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It’s not all about the monitors for Samsung at Gamescom either. Bethesda Game Studios’ much-anticipated game, “Starfield,” will be accessible through the Samsung Gaming Hub with an Xbox Game Pass subscription starting September 6. This collaboration offers a new way to access and stream cloud games on supported 2023 TVs and monitors, including the Samsung Neo QLED 8K.

eSports, Gaming, Lifestyle

Gentle Monster Eyewear’s Overwatch 2 Collaboration Is Here

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In the world of gaming, whenever there is a new and exciting crossover happening, it is sure to catch everyone’s attention. Even if you are not a hardcore gamer, you will want to know about the Gentle Monster x Overwatch 2 collaboration.

So, what’s the scoop?

In celebration of the release of OVERWATCH 2: INVASION, Gentle Monster has partnered with Overwatch 2 to release the ‘GENTLE TOKKI Package’! This package combines stylish tinted sunglasses called ‘TOKKI’ with exclusive in-game skins, all inspired by the popular Overwatch 2 hero, D.Va.

Gentle Monster x Overwatch 2

The ‘TOKKI’ eyewear is inspired by D.Va’s iconic headgear in the game and is available in two different colours. The packaging is a nod to D.Va’s mech, TOKKI. It even includes a soft case designed to resemble the mechanical structure of TOKKI. To top it off, you will also get an attachable D.Va figure!

Each package also comes with a redemption code. This code lets you unlock exclusive GENTLE TOKKI D.Va skins and other in-game items. If you are itching to get your hands on this package, you can now do that!

Tokki

Starting on 17 August 2023, the GENTLE TOKKI skin will be available for purchase on Overwatch 2. The GENTLE TOKKI Package itself will be gifted exclusively to lucky winners chosen through an online draw.

To enter the draw, you can take part in the Instagram “D.Va Challenge” until 31 August 2023. It’s easy – just snap a photo or video using the D.Va filter on Instagram, add the event hashtags, and you are in the running.

To find out more information, be sure to head over to Gentle Monster’s official website!