Bon, j’ai une super nouvelle pour les fans de stratégie et ceux qui cherchent un nouveau jeu chronophage : Epic Games Store balance enfin du lourd pour son Summer Sale 2025 en offrant Civilization VI Platinum Edition gratuitement ! Et attention, l’offre se termine le 24 juillet à 17h (heure française), donc faut pas traîner.

Et le plus cool, c’est qu’ils n’offrent pas juste le jeu de base comme en 2020. Non non, là c’est la version Platinum complète avec toutes les extensions majeures et 6 packs de DLC. Valeur normale : 80 dollars. Et là c’est gratuit. Zéro. Nada. C’est Noël en juillet !

Pour ceux qui vivent dans une grotte, Civilization VI c’est LE jeu de stratégie 4X par excellence. Les 4X c’est quoi ? eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate. En gros, vous prenez une civilisation de l’âge de pierre avec juste un colon et un guerrier, et vous la guidez jusqu’à l’ère spatiale. Ou jusqu’à la domination mondiale. Ou jusqu’à une victoire culturelle. Bref, vous avez le choix.

Le truc avec Civ VI, c’est que c’est addictif comme pas permis. C’est le genre de jeu où vous vous dites “allez, encore un tour” et hop, vous levez la tête, il est 4h du mat et vous n’avez plus de café. Mais quelle satisfaction quand votre empire s’étend sur trois continents et que Gandhi vous menace avec ses bombes nucléaires (oui, c’est un des running gag de la série). Comme tous les Civ, cet opus reste une référence absolue du genre.

Dans cette édition Platinum, vous avez donc le package complet avec le jeu de base qui est déjà énorme, mais surtout les deux extensions majeures qui transforment complètement l’expérience. Rise and Fall ajoute les âges d’or et sombres qui rythment votre progression, les gouverneurs pour gérer vos villes, et un système d’alliances amélioré. Gathering Storm, c’est encore plus fou : changement climatique, catastrophes naturelles, volcans qui peuvent détruire mais aussi fertiliser vos terres, et tout un système de diplomatie mondiale avec un congrès et des résolutions.

Ah et j’oubliais les 6 packs de civilisations inclus ! Vikings menés par Harald Hardrada, la Pologne de Jadwiga, l’Australie avec John Curtin, la Perse de Cyrus, la Macédoine d’Alexandre le Grand, la Nubie d’Amanitore, et enfin le Khmer et l’Indonésie. Chaque civilisation a ses propres unités, bâtiments uniques et bonus qui changent complètement votre façon de jouer.

Le gameplay de Civ VI est hyper profond sans être inaccessible et la grande nouveauté par rapport aux anciens Civ, c’est le système de districts. Au lieu d’empiler tous vos bâtiments dans le centre-ville, vous devez construire des quartiers spécialisés autour : campus pour la science, théâtre pour la culture, zone industrielle pour la production, etc. Ça ajoute une dimension puzzle super intéressante où le placement de vos villes devient crucial.

Vous devez aussi jongler avec 2 arbres de progression : les technologies classiques (de la roue aux robots géants de la mort) et l’arbre des dogmes sociaux qui débloque des gouvernements, des politiques et des bonus culturels. Chaque techno a également son moment “Eureka”, une mini-quête qui accélère la recherche. Genre construire une ville côtière pour booster la navigation…etc.

Pour les débutants qui flipperaient devant la complexité, pas de panique, puisque le jeu a un tutoriel intégré super bien fait et surtout la Civilopedia, une encyclopédie in-game qui explique absolument tout. C’est le gros point d’interrogation en haut de l’écran, votre meilleur ami pour comprendre les mécaniques.

Allez, je vais quand même vous donner quelques conseils de base pour bien démarrer : installez votre première ville près de l’eau fraîche (rivière, lac, oasis) pour le housing qui limite votre croissance de population. Explorez rapidement avec votre éclaireur pour trouver des villages tribaux (bonus gratuits), des merveilles naturelles et des cités-états. Et surtout, développez plusieurs villes rapidement plutôt qu’une seule mégalopole.

Le jeu propose 5 conditions de victoire, donc vous avez vraiment le choix de votre style. Domination militaire en conquérant toutes les capitales, victoire scientifique en partant coloniser Mars, victoire culturelle en devenant LA destination touristique mondiale, victoire religieuse en convertissant le monde entier, ou victoire diplomatique en gagnant des points au congrès mondial.

Bon par contre, petite déception pour certains, c’est uniquement pour Windows sur Epic. Pas de version Mac ou Linux dans cette offre. Et attention aussi, le New Frontier Pass qui ajoute encore plus de civilisations et de modes de jeu n’est pas inclus, c’est vendu séparément mais pour du gratuit, on va pas faire la fine bouche.

C’est quand même cool de voir que le jeu continue d’être supporté en 2025. Aspyr a sorti une grosse mise à jour en juin pour la version Android avec des pools de leaders personnalisables et Jules César comme nouveau leader pour Rome. Et même avec la sortie de Civilization VII, le VI reste ultra actif avec une communauté de moddeurs dingue.

Pour récupérer votre copie gratuite, c’est simple : foncez sur l’Epic Games Store avant le 24 juillet 11h ET (17h heure française). Cherchez Civilization VI Platinum Edition dans la section jeux gratuits, cliquez sur “Obtenir”, et c’est dans la poche. Sinon, vous cliquez ici, ce sera encore plus rapide ^^.

Une fois dans votre bibliothèque, c’est à vie, même si vous l’installez dans 3 ans.

Petite astuce, même si vous avez déjà le jeu de base (sur Steam par exemple), ça vaut quand même le coup de le chopper sur Epic pour les extensions car Rise and Fall et Gathering Storm coûtent encore cher vendues séparément, donc c’est vraiment une affaire en or.

Je vous préviens quand même juste, préparez-vous à perdre des heures de sommeil car ce truc est plus addictif que de manger des chips devant Netflix. Mais quel kiff !

Alors foncez, c’est vraiment LE bon plan gaming de la semaine. Et si vous hésitez, encore une fois, c’est gratuit et surtout, ça tourne sur des configs modestes (une HD 7970 de 2012 suffit) donc ne vous privez pas !

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Pour la sortie de la Nintendo Switch 2, Square Enix a décidé de publier un remaster du premier Bravely Default. En plus de notre test, on vous propose de découvrir à quoi ressemble l'expérience de jeu du premier grand RPG de la console.

Death Stranding 2 met l'accent sur les phases d'action et d'infiltration. Alors, dans cette vidéo de gameplay, on nettoie un camp ennemi... Sans se faire voir !

Pour la sortie de la Nintendo Switch 2, Capcom a décidé d'être présent avec Kunitsu-Gami et surtout Street Fighter 6, son jeu de combat phare. Voilà donc 10 minutes du mode Arcade avec Mai pour découvrir le rendu du titre sur la nouvelle console.

Quand j’étais jeune, j’ai eu la chance d’avoir une Game Boy originale et au fil des années, j’avais accumulé pas mal de jeux. Malheureusement un jour, un membre malfaisant de ma famille a quasiment tout volé pour les revendre à je ne sais qui, mais j’ai quand même réussi à sauver ma GB d’origine et surtout Tetris qui est, encore aujourd’hui, mon jeu préféré.

Je n’y joue pas souvent, mais je sais que si un jour elle tombe en panne, grâce à ce projet, je pourrais la réparer sans souci et même avoir de nouvelles fonctionnalités super cools. D’ailleurs qui n’a jamais rêvé de pimper sa bonne vieille Game Boy tout en conservant son look d’origine indémodable ?

PirateFi, a Steam game, was found spreading Vidar malware, stealing user data. Steam removed it, but gamers must take urgent security steps.

Mobile gaming has evolved over the years primarily because of the processing power at hand on these devices. This has led to brands coming out with dedicated gaming controllers for both iOS and Android-powered phones. Razer Kishi series, GameSir, Backbone One and 8BitDo all offer good options for mobile gaming without breaking the bank.

8BitDo in particular has portable and compact gamepads for gaming on the go. In fact, they are so compact they can fit easily in the pocket of your pants. Yes, I’m talking about the Micro and Zero 2 gaming controllers that are tailored for 2D games on your Android device. Now the brand has released another accessory compatible with Micro and Zero 2 tailored for gaming with emulators or gaming titles that have on-screen controls at the bottom of the screen.

Designer: 8BitDo

The Mobile Clip clamps onto your mobile device, so that you can use it in a more ergonomic playing positioning. This is a unique idea for a mobile gaming accessory and should do good with gaming emulators that mostly have the controls set up at the bottom of the screen with the remainder of the screen real estate reserved for the in-game action. It should be great for playing retro 2D games as the Micro/Zero 2 controller sits pretty snugly on the display of any Android or iOS phone.

Priced at $10, this clip-on accessory is a no-brainer if you own any of the two compact gamepads. It comes as a three-part bundle with a clip-on clamp that attaches to your device, and the other two are shells for the respective controllers. You just have to hook together the combination and attach it to your phone. Even if you are planning to buy any one of these two compact gaming controllers, it would be a wise choice to bundle it up with this mobile clip to open up the possibilities for a set collection of gaming titles on your phone.

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Folks over at 8BitDo are on a role this year with the release of high-quality gaming controllers (most often officially licensed) that cater to the needs of every kind of gamer. Just when you thought what more could come from the house of this innovative tech company, they have the perfect gift this holiday season for kids and people with small hands.

The peppy gamepad is basically a compact and lighter version of the Ultimate 2C controller. The officially licensed Xbox controller is 20 percent smaller and 10 percent lighter than its predecessor, thus making it a good option for gamers who think the Xbox Series X|S controllers are a bit of a handful. Weighing just 189.6 grams the controller is well-suited for long playing sessions which can fatigue your wrists and hands.

Designer: 8BitDo

The layout on the controller is similar to the regular ones by Xbox – the only difference being the more crammed positioning (or compact alignment if you have small hands) of buttons. The buttons, joysticks, and triggers are full-sized, so that you don’t miss any input during crucial gameplay action. Although the main target audience of this gaming peripheral is teens and younger gamers, it’ll be the most cozy option for female gamers who tend to have smaller hands and males with average-sized hands.

The action buttons, directional pad, and the magnetic Hall effect joysticks are positioned very close together. This while keeping in mind ergonomics and a clear distinction in gaming inputs when multiple buttons or joysticks are pushed. 8BitDo has also included Hall effect triggers on the rear, and slightly smaller shoulder buttons. The visually striking gamepad comes wrapped in a translucent shell with white, green and pink hues along with the matching button and joystick color theme. Whenever a button is pushed or the joystick rolled, the cool LED lights react with flashes or follow the direction of the movement. This they call the Fire Ring and it looks amazing.

Ultimate Mini is going to be available in wired option only, so that there is no extra battery weight just like in other wireless controllers. It is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, and Windows 10 or higher PCs. The compact gamepad can be ordered right away in the US for $35 from the official 8BitDo online store or Amazon.

The post Ultra compact and lightweight 8BitDo Ultimate Mini controller is perfect for gamers with small hands first appeared on Yanko Design.

During this Cyber Week special, you can get unlimited access to online courses for only $19.97! Price drop ends on December 15 at 11:59 pm.

Après la sortie Horizon Zero Dawn, Aloy revient deux semaines après avec le jeu LEGO Horizon Adventures. Un titre qui rend accessible à tous l'une des licences phares de PlayStation.

If you wish to again play games on your Nintendo console with the GameCube controller that has damaged wires and bad instances of drifting analog sticks, then this accessory arrives as a blessing in disguise. 8BitDo has introduced a mod kit that lets you upgrade your GameCube controller to a wireless gamepad, so that you’re not impulsively tempted into buying a new one.

This is not the first time 8BitDo has introduced a mod kit for the Nintendo controllers including the N64 and earlier ones, so this comes as no surprise. The trick here is that you’ll have to replace the existing PCB of the NGC controller with a drop-in board. The Chinese tech company is taking pre-orders for this useful gaming accessory that’ll make you go wireless if you hate the wire clutter on your Nintendo ecosystem. Called the NGC Mod Kit, this one is slated to ship on 25^th September.

Designer: 8BitDo

You’ll need to have basic soldering knowledge and loads of patience to make the changeover. Remember, controllers are not that easy to put together when opened up. Although not as tedious as putting together something like a DualSense. Of course, there are certified adapters on the market (including 8BitDo GBros and Nintendo’s official adapter) that allow you to use the wired GameCube controller with the Switch but this mod kit cuts out the extra and brings straightforward wireless Bluetooth connectivity.

Along with making your gamepad wireless, there are other add-ons as well. It has Hall effect joysticks for improved lifespan and immunity against sensitive vibrations if you love to play your FPS games hard. The accessory adds a 300mAh USB-C rechargeable battery with 6 hours of playtime for gaming without interruptions. It also adds a new set of triggers to the controller, so basically, you’ll have a virtually new gaming controller to play around with.

8BitDo Mod Kit priced at $26 is worth the spend if you have a Nintendo GameCube controller with chewed-down wires and defunct joystick controls. The only catch is, that you’ll have to slash out another $26 for the Tetro Receiver for GNC to connect to the GameCube. So, spending $52 on a wire-free setup for your existing NGC controller makes logical sense.

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Flip Phones? How about we introduce an era of Flip Consoles!

Meet the Game Boy Flip, an audacious fan-made console concept that features a flip-type gadget with joy-cons. In its shut mode, you’ve got a handheld device that can be used to play Game Boy Advanced or Color games, but open the foldable and you’ve got a larger screen for a more immersive landscape-style game a la Nintendo Switch. I don’t see any cameras on this device but slap a couple and you quite literally have a flip phone that can be used for stuff other than just gaming… not bad, huh??

Designer: Abdelrahman Shaapan

The idea of a foldable gaming console seems like an absolute winner, truth be told. Flip phones are currently in a spot where they’re searching for a problem to solve – but the Game Boy Flip has no such problem. It’s a dedicated gaming device that takes its reputation seriously, offering multiple gaming modes ( we counted as many as three).

The first is just straight-up handheld touchscreen gaming. Use it in the closed mode for more retro old-school games, or open it up for a more expansive contemporary console experience. The dual touchscreens are perfect for immersing yourself in games, although there are arrow buttons on both the left and right side just in case you want some analog action.

If touchscreen gaming isn’t your jam (and a lot of bonafide gamers would feel so), the Game Boy Flip comes with snap-on Joy-Cons that let you play games with advanced controls, just like you would a GBA or Nintendo DS. The closed-display format offers the perfect size and aspect ratio for such games, making it perfect to relive old classics from years ago.

However, open the console up and you’re presented with a modern-day beast. The Joy-Cons snap to the open-screen device, now giving you a larger landscape display that’s perfect for newer games like the ones on the Switch. In fact, I’d go a step further and say the Game Boy Flip looks better than the Switch just given how slick and gorgeous that bezel-less screen is.

The only real difference is that the Joy-Cons don’t exist independently. They’re part of an armature that holds the phone in between (sort of like the Razer Kishi or the Backbone controller) with a USB-C jack plugging into the device to create a ‘wired’ connection, so you can’t detach the Joy-Cons and play with them independently the way you would on a Switch. However, that isn’t really what this concept is all about – it’s more about providing a novel template for the clamshell-style foldable phone, turning it into a Game Boy from the future that’s backward compatible, allowing you to play old classics on a small screen, and modern-day titles on the larger, landscape screen.

Now sure, this is just a fan-made concept of a Nintendo device that will probably never exist… but if anyone there can build a controller prototype for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 or even the Xiaomi Mix Flip, I’m sure there’s definitely a gamer market out there willing to rock a flip phone just for the experience of being able to play games on it effectively!

The post Foldable Game Boy console lets you go from Classic to Nintendo Switch-style Landscape gaming in seconds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Handheld gaming consoles are rocking the market again, in no small part thanks to the success of the Nintendo Switch nearly eight years ago. But for all the technological marvels these powerful computers bring today, they’re really just rehashing time-tested formulas, at least when it comes to the way we see and interact with games. Just like with much of computing, we’re simply seeing images rendered on a flat screen rather than the way we naturally see and interact with the world in three dimensions. Mixed reality and spatial computing are trying to challenge the status quote when it comes to typical computing scenarios, while this concept for a unique kind of console proposes a literally different perspective when it comes to the video games we play.

Designers: Tatsuya Kato, Shion Ito, Toshikatsu Nakamura, Toshiki Sato

Uplight definitely looks like no other gaming console, not just because of the different controller configuration but primarily for the lack of a screen. The design concept flips the convention of game design, with the experience being designed to conform to the unique traits of the console rather than the other way around. In this case, the unique characteristic is a projector hidden in the base of the console that displays the game on three-dimensional acrylic screens that can take on different object shapes specific to the nature of the game.

Think about those 3D puzzle games that require you to rotate a cube around to see it from different sides to solve the puzzle, except that cube is a literal and physical cube existing in the real world. This cube, made from translucent acrylic, is mounted on top of the Uplight console and displays the game projected into it. Players can use the console’s unusual controls to move the displayed image around or, better yet, use their own hands to actually turn the cube.

The 3D acrylic screen can be any shape, in theory, depending on the game experience being designed. It could, for example, be a giant translucent jellyfish for an aquatic adventure game, or even a tree branch for a game related to planting or vegetation. The possibilities are nearly endless, limited only by the angle that the integrated projector can reach and, of course, the size of the console.

That said, such a unique system will require games specifically designed for it, which also means designing new experiences that involve three-dimensional thinking as well as direct tactile interaction. Very few of today’s games have that, which will definitely challenge the creativity and ingenuity of game designers should Uplight ever become an actual commercial product.

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Nintendo Game Boy is one of the bestselling consoles of all time, owing to its competitive pricing and gamer-friendly features. Right from the original version to the consequent variants released in the 90s, the handheld gaming console has been popular across generations and inspired similar designs all these years.

While Nintendo has no plans to release a Game Boy version in the future, a concept design puts the handheld right in the realms of ultra-advanced gaming accessories. The gaming handheld visualized here solves your gaming needs indoors and outdoors sans any restrictions on whether you prefer playing it on the native small screen or the bigger one.

Designer: LFD Official

That’s possible with an integrated mini projector that can be taken right off the back of the handheld and positioned to project on any room wall, outdoor tent, or anything with a plain surface. This detachable projector module seamlessly switches the gameplay output, so you can enjoy games on the big canvas anytime. The transparent aesthetics of the handheld are inspired by the clear transparent version dubbed Game Boy Bros. released in 1995.

The display is much bigger, using most of the screen real estate with minimal bezels. Right below it are the gamepad controls that are much bigger and more tactile for improved gameplay and ergonomics. The tiny hardware of the gadget is enclosed in a transparent polycarbonate housing protected by the gorilla glass layer. To make this modern Nintendo handheld stand out, the designer envisions it in cool color options – Flame Scarlet, Greenery, Ultra Violet and Blue Grotto.

The back panel of the handheld holds the detachable projector in place and adjacent is the speaker to enjoy multimedia content and favorite games on the go. The UI of the gadget is heavily influenced by the Game Boy cartridge and the pixelated Gill Sans font evokes the neo-retro feel.

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It seems that we’re seeing a rather curious design trend in the gaming market. Once filled with plastic-encrusted designs, there are a few coming out with more stylish cases, be it for the device itself or for its accessories. Analogue just recently launched its CNC aluminum limited edition Pocket, but 8BitDo was actually a few steps ahead of it. Although one’s eleventh anniversary isn’t actually associated with metal (it’s Turquoise, by the way), the famed maker of throwback controllers released metal versions of its widely popular SN30 Pro, giving fans of the brand a collectible they can actually use and, in case of an emergency, even throw like a deadly weapon.

Designer: 8BitDo

Game controllers are made to be light enough not to cause hand strain but still have enough weight to feel substantial and improve gameplay. Gamers have come to expect that bulkier controllers that follow the Xbox and PlayStation designs would be heavier than most, especially controllers that are patterned after the designs of yesteryears. Not so this variant of the SN30 Pro, itself designed after the super lightweight Super Nintendo gamepad, mostly because most of its body is made of metal.

The Gold and Silver editions of the SN30 Pro aren’t just cheap paint jobs, though you might be forgiven for making that presumption given the resemblance to powder-coated metallic paint. It’s true metal, or as 8BitDo calls it, metal zinc alloy, and it’s used not just for the main body but for almost every part visible to the eyes. That includes buttons, triggers, and, yes, even the joysticks. The gold edition gets a matte paint finish while the silver version undergoes electroplating. The cables aren’t metal, though, which is probably for the best.

More than just visual oddities, the SN30 Pro Gold/Silver Edition controllers also have one other advantage over their plasticky older siblings. They’re built to last, at least more than the common controller, as metal will not warp or deform over time. It’s also less likely to crack when accidentally dropped, though you might dent this here and there. And drop it you might indeed, given how heavy it is 381g. For comparison, the normal SN30 Pro weighs a mere 114g and even the Xbox Wireless Controller is just around 287g.

Not all that glitters is gold, as they say, and despite the luster and heft of these limited edition controllers, their feature set might leave gamers sorely disappointed. They’re definitely more like functional collectors’ editions rather than serious gaming weapons (unless you throw it like one), and the $99.99 price tag definitely cements, or rather forges, that image.

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Casio has partnered with UNO to create a one-of-a-kind timepiece that merges the nostalgia of both brands. This collaboration brings together the vintage A168 watch with the playful and colorful elements of the iconic card game UNO. The result is a watch that’s both a stylish accessory and a tribute to a beloved game that has entertained families and friends for decades.

Designer: Casio x UNO

Known for its reliable and affordable watches and the classic card game that has been a household staple since 1971, both brands emerged in the 1970s and have since built a loyal global following. This collaboration celebrates the enduring popularity of these two brands by integrating the playful spirit of the card game with the timeless design and functionality of the watch.

Created by Merle Robbins in 1971, the card game has become one of the most popular worldwide. The game is simple yet engaging, where players match cards by color or number, aiming to be the first to play all their cards. The game’s excitement is amplified by special cards like the Wild Card, which allows players to change the current color, adding an element of strategy and unpredictability. Over the years, the game has evolved with various themed editions and special rules, but its core appeal remains unchanged: bringing people together through fun and friendly competition.

This watch collaboration captures attention with its incorporation of vibrant and iconic colors. The face is adorned with the distinctive hues of the Wild Card—red, blue, yellow, and green. These colors are strategically placed around the digital display, creating a visually engaging and nostalgic look. The case is finished in gunmetal gray ion plating, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic. The black ion-plated stainless steel band complements the case, adding a touch of sophistication to the playful design.

One of the most captivating elements is the electroluminescent (EL) backlight. It reveals the word “Wild” across the LCD display when activated. This feature enhances visibility in low-light conditions and brings an interactive element to the design, echoing the excitement of drawing a Wild Card during a game.

Turning the watch over, the attention to detail continues. The case back is engraved with the game logo and a playful arrangement of the 1, 6, and 8 cards—corresponding to the model number. This hidden touch adds an element of surprise and delight, much like discovering a special card in the deck.

The technical features are equally impressive. The case size measures 38.6 x 36.3 x 9.6 mm and weighs 49 grams. The case and bezel are made of resin with chrome plating, while the band is stainless steel with an adjustable clasp for a comfortable fit. The watch is water-resistant, making it suitable for everyday wear.

It boasts an impressive battery life of approximately seven years, powered by a CR2016 battery. The watch face is protected by resin glass, ensuring durability, and the black ion-plated band is both stylish and resilient. It features a 1/100-second stopwatch with a measuring capacity of up to 59’59.99″ and various modes, including elapsed time, split time, and 1st- and 2nd-place times.

It is equipped with a daily alarm and hourly time signal to keep you punctual. The electroluminescent backlight illuminates the display in blue, enhancing visibility. An auto-calendar function ensures accurate date-keeping, accounting for leap years. The watch maintains an accuracy of ±30 seconds per month and supports both 12-hour and 24-hour formats, displaying hours, minutes, seconds, PM, date, and day.

This unique watch comes in co-branded packaging, highlighting the collaboration while embracing sustainability. The packaging features the four iconic card colors and is made from recycled materials, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. This collaborative watch is more than just a timepiece; it celebrates two iconic brands from the 1970s. It combines the nostalgia and fun of the card game with the reliable and stylish design of the watch, creating a unique and functional accessory that appeals to both watch enthusiasts and fans of the classic card game. Priced at $99.95, this special edition watch is available now online.

The post One-of-a-Kind Design Casio x UNO Watch: Classic Timekeeping Meets Iconic Card Game Fun first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sony’s lawyers better get their ceases and desists in order – a sub-$100 knockoff of the Sony PS Portal is available online with arguably better specs than the original. While Sony announced the PlayStation Portal as purely an accessory to the existing PS5, this carbon copy dubbed the M25 actually runs as a standalone device, running LINUX and EmuELEC but with support for more than 25 other emulators, and space for more than 3000 games so you can play anywhere instead of being relegated to just your PS5. Is it a shameless ripoff? Absolutely. Are we surprised? A little, at the audacity for sure!

When compared face to face, there are distinct differences between Sony’s version and the M25. For starters, the latter has a much smaller 4.3-inch screen that fits into the controller’s form factor instead of being a tablet attached onto the controller like in Sony’s design. This also means the M25 is a little more compact than its inspiration, making it easier to carry with you. That being said, the PS Portal wasn’t designed to be carried anyway, given that it needs to be tethered via WiFi to your PS5 at all times, eliminating any possibility of mobile gaming. The M25, on the other hand, has storage of up to 128Gb, letting you store and play games pretty much anywhere you want. It’s more like a Nintendo Switch Lite than like the PS Portal, in that regard.

Just on the design front, the M25 is a total ripoff of the DualSense controller, with a modified form that fits an HD screen (or so they’d have you believe) in between the two halves of the controller. A Quad-core processor on the inside runs the M25’s experience, with 4GB of RAM and up to 128GB of internal storage (expandable with a TF card). A 3000mAh battery powers the entire device, and the display maxes at 480×272 pixels, which does feel like being shortchanged, but then again what did you expect for $88?

The M25 runs Linux and the EmuELEC emulator. You can sideload any other emulator of your choice, and the storage should allow you to play and save a dizzying 3000 games. Sure, it doesn’t compare to playing AAA titles like Assassin’s Creed or GTA 6 (if and when it releases) on a handheld device, but if you want to game on a subway without splurging on a Nintendo Switch, the M25 may just be your best bet. Better still, if you want a budget gift for a spoilt kid who wants the PS Portal, hand them this one and see if they notice! It’s available on Geekbuying, and ships from China, so don’t expect to be able to follow up on any warranty…

The post $88 Sony PlayStation Portal knockoff runs an Emulator with over 3000 built-in games first appeared on Yanko Design.

For PC gamers having the right set of peripherals goes a long way in giving them strategic advantage. Be it a gaming keyboard, mouse, gamepad, or steering wheel with pedal inputs – different genres of games demand a varied setup. Take for example racing games that are best played with a steering wheel setup, Battle Royales that need the precise input of a mouse and keyboard, and strategic Multiplayer titles that require a hybrid input of a joystick gamepad.

Eventually, a serious gamer will end up buying the best of all these accessories that’ll take up space on their desk or cabinet. So, how about a multifunctional gaming controller that integrates a keyboard, gamepad and steering wheel into one? A smart peripheral that can be customized depending on the specific needs of the user.

Designer: Thulir S S

This concept design for the brand Logitech more than just caught my eye for the right reasons. Called the Logitech G360, the gaming peripheral is ultra-compact and solves the intended purpose. The highly versatile device is designed aesthetically to not take too much space while keeping the gaming function of each of them, or combined configuration in mind. On the steering wheel base, the gamepad and keyboard are configured to handle the car’s directional inputs, while the connected pedals register the speed, braking and clutch inputs. Simply mount it onto your desk and you’re ready for intense racing action.

When you’re done playing a racing title, you can take out the gamepad from the housing and connect it to play an MMO. For playing real-time shooting titles you can employ the ultra-compact keyboard designed keeping in mind the required input keys for such games. Each of these devices has their independent Bluetooth connectivity hardware, so you don’t have to worry about latency or connection issues.

To add a bit of flair to the whole setup, Thulir imagines the gaming peripheral in sporty Fourmula-1 themes of Red Bull Racing in blue, McLaren in orange and Ferrari in red. I was taken aback by the level of thought put into the design of this concept Logitech gaming accessory. The idea is smart and PC gamers already be licking their fingers.

The post This multifunctional racing wheel has integrated keyboard and gamepad for all your PC gaming needs first appeared on Yanko Design.

One of the world’s biggest computer-centric tech expos has just ended and, unsurprisingly, a lot of the rhetoric revolved around AI. But if you walk around the showroom floor, another theme quickly becomes evident in the midst of new products as well as some not-so-new wares. Consumer tastes have evolved once again, even among those who would embrace the label of being a gamer. Design is no longer just a feature for the few but an important part of a product’s DNA. We’ve seen quite a wide range of designs across an equally wide range of products, from the eccentric to the elegant. Here are some of the most notable designs to grace our paths at Computex 2024 in Taiwan, showcasing not just the trends but also the innovations in the computing industry.

Cool Computing: PC Case Designs

Desktop computers have evolved from uninspiring towers to smoldering workstations with over-the-top lighting to a smorgasbord of designs that cater to a variety of tastes and interests. Computex 2024 is a glowing testament to not only the changes in design trends but also to the extent that some manufacturers will go to in order to appeal to their loyal fans.

ADATA XPG Invader X

Designer: ADATA

Winner of an iF Design Award, the ADATA XPG Invader X values transparency in more ways than one. Its clear front and side panels let you marvel at the neatly arranged components that power this gaming beast, including the tubes and RGB-lit fans that keep the box operating at maximum efficiency. Equally interesting, however, is the chassis’s ESG-compliant design, utilizing post-consumer recycled plastics and upgrade-friendly components. It’s a stylish, eco-friendly computer that tries to offset the carbon emissions of your gaming lifestyle.

Cooler Master Mecha Cases

Designer: Cooler Master

Who said computers needed to come in the form of boxes? Cooler Master definitely didn’t. With designs that come in the form of a robotic shark and a giant mechanical sneaker, these PC cases shatter expectations and misconceptions about how our computers should look like. And as hardware becomes smaller even as they become more powerful, it’s only a matter of time before these become the standard rather than the outlier.

PNY Aftershock Bubble Tea PC

Designer: PNY x AftershockPC

Electronics and liquids don’t mix but it becomes a mind-blowing mystery when you see the two together. And now, we don’t mean liquid cooling. From the makers of ramen-themed desktop towers, this Bubble Tea PC will have you not only scratching your head but also craving a cup of boba. Instead of a sugary and milky drink, however, it’s a luscious-colored coolant that has faux tapioca balls swirling around as it keeps your cool-looking PC thermally cool. This collab between PC maker PNY and case designer Aftershock isn’t a joke either but a fully functional gaming PC that’s ready to put a new spin on your cravings.

Power In Your Hands: Handheld Gaming PCs

While there are plenty of AI-toting laptops scattered around Computex this year, they are hardly the only computers vying for attention. Gaming handheld PCs are pushing the envelope not only in performance in a small form factor but also in terms of design. There’s definitely plenty of room for experimentation, and there are a few that have caught our attention and fancy.

ADATA XPG Nia

Designer: ADATA

An unexpected contender from a brand better known for its memory and data storage hardware, the XPG Nia focuses on the aspects often left out in the wake of specs and benchmarks. A tilting screen, for example, can drastically improve the comfort of staring at a handheld computer for long periods of time, while upgradable RAM in addition to upgradable storage gives the device a longer life than even some of the smartphones we have today.

ASUS ROG Ally X

Designer: ASUS ROG

The ASUS ROG Ally X is a fine example of refinement over sensational changes. The base design remains the same, but the subtle and sometimes invisible improvements deliver an almost totally different experience that’s a step above in terms of usability. Best of all, however, ASUS isn’t removing the OG ROG Ally from the market just yet, leaving consumers with the choice between affordability and power.

MSI Claw 8 AI+

Designer: MSI

The MSI Claw A1M was an odd one when it came out, but the Claw 8 AI+ cements the manufacturer’s position in the young handheld gaming PC segment. With newer, AI-friendlier hardware comes significant improvements that are necessary for such a small gaming device. It’s still rather unique in its use of Intel silicon, and it will live or die by that commitment. Its design, however, is also enough to make it a noteworthy contender in this fast-growing arena.

ZOTAC ZONE

Designer: ZOTAC

ZOTAC is another new contender, one that has its sights set on the name that started it all: the Steam Deck. While it resembles this progenitor in some aspects, the ZOTAC ZONE tries to take the design where Valve seems reluctant to go. Better hardware and configurable controls will sing to the hearts of many gamers, but the steep price tag could be a major deterrent as well.

Material Matters: Aesthetic and Sustainable Designs

Design innovation doesn’t just have to come from wild new forms or combinations of ideas. Even the materials used for products can have a notable positive effect on the user experience, especially when they delight not just the eyes but also other senses like touch. Bonus points if they also benefit the environment, ensuring there will still be a planet for consumers to live on.

ASUS Ceraluminum

Designer: ASUS

Laptop users are becoming more and more design-conscious. Even those who don’t tend to personalize the backs of their laptops want it to be something that will leave a lasting positive impression on bystanders, not to mention on themselves. Combining the durability of metal with the luxury of ceramic, ASUS’s new Ceraluminum material subtly elevates the laptop from a technological product to an art object. First used on the new ASUS Zenbook S 16, this material exudes beauty that you not only see but also feel every time you touch the laptop or lift its lid.

TECNO CAMON 30 Series LOEWE Design Edition

Designer: TECNO

Paying homage to both coffee lovers and environment-conscious consumers, TECNO and LOEWE designed a back cover material that gives waste coffee grounds new life. Using an equally eco-friendly process, this more sustainable material gives the TECNO CAMON 30 Series LOEWE Design Edition a distinctive appearance and texture that easily sets itself apart from the crowd. Plus, the use of color blocking also marks the phone with a modern style to fit the discerning tastes of modern consumers.

Creative License: Tools for Designers

All these wonderful designs don’t just pop out from thin air. Someone has to make them, from initial ideation to prototyping to manufacturing. Designers and creators naturally need tools that can meet the growing complexities of their work, and Computex definitely has quite a few in store for them.

Acer SpatialLabs Eye 3D Camera

Designer: Acer

Spatial computing, mixed reality, and the metaverse require a special kind of content, one that breaks free from the confines of flat, 2D space. Even in video meetings and live selling streams, 3D objects are becoming more in demand, offering not just viewers but also presenters new ways to connect and communicate. Acer’s new SpatialLabs Eye 3D camera tries to democratize that process, effectively giving anyone the ability to capture, record, and stream any real-world 3D object as a digital copy.

ASUS ProArt PZ13 Detachable Laptop

Designer: ASUS

As computers become more powerful and geographical boundaries become shorter, content creation can no longer be confined to a desk in an office or room. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 gives designers, artists, engineers, and everyone in between that kind of flexibility with its portable and detachable design. What makes this 2-in-1 computer different is that it’s part of the new breed of Windows computers running on the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip, promising improved performance and, of course, on-device AI capabilities.

Power to the User: Empowering Gamers and Creators

One thing that gamers, creators, and power users have in common is their need for power, both literally and figuratively. The ability to customize not only their experience but also the appearance of their equipment goes a long way in giving them the confidence to get their job done, and these designs definitely deliver that with a touch of pizzazz!

ASUS Project DALI E Ink Cover Laptop

Designer: ASUS

E Ink is no longer just for eBook readers. Now that it has color and is being used in signage, the eye-friendly and power-efficient display technology is finding its way to the most unexpected places, like the back of this laptop concept. Project DALI turns the laptop cover into a canvas for users of all walks of life to express themselves or simply have a different design every day if they want. All without draining the battery even when the laptop isn’t running.

ASUS ROG Mjolnir Portable UPS

Designer: ASUS ROG

Nothing scares a gamer or designer more than losing power in the middle of an intense playing or working session. Uninterruptible power supplies are a staple for these people, but if you’ll be getting one, why settle for a boring box when you can have one of the most powerful weapons in the universe? Shaped after the mythological hammer of Thor, the ROG Mjolnir is a power station with an attitude and, more importantly, the power and features to actually match.

Cooler Master MasterHUB Modular Stream Kit

Designer: Cooler Master

A typical computer keyboard has 87 to 101 keys or more, but sometimes even those aren’t enough for content creators, streamers, gamers, and advanced computer users. When you have to remember a bunch of keyboard shortcuts that differ from program to program, you’re putting a heavy burden on your mind that could be used for actual creative thinking instead. This modular MasterHUB stream kit and control center not only offers the power of programmable buttons but also lets you decide how you want those controls to be arranged and look.

The post Top Design Innovations from Computex 2024: Where Technology Meets Aesthetics first appeared on Yanko Design.