Unlock the full potential of your mobile device with our recommended list!
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Amazing News! The world of Pokemon Go is a thrilling one, populated by countless trainers striving to capture, train, and battle their virtual companions. This popular mobile game, developed by Niantic, has been a staple in the gaming scene since its release in 2016. Recently, one player's unusual method of leveling up has caught the attention of Pokemon GO enthusiasts - a unique feat involving no conventional game activities such as catching Pokemon, winning raids, or visiting PokeStops. This player, Reddit user JuanG12, managed to surge from level 43 to 44, a journey that is both impressive and intriguing.
Since its inception, Pokemon GO has had a level cap of 40. However, in a game-changing update rolled out in November 2020, Niantic raised the level cap to 50. This new cap came with an exponential increase in experience points (XP) required for each level, with the 50th level necessitating a whopping 30 million XP. This is tantamount to reaching level 40 six times from scratch! Yet, the biggest hurdle for players lies in the challenge requirements, a fact that our unique player, JuanG12, is acutely aware of.
JuanG12’s journey from level 43 to 44 is a testament to his resilience and innovation. On reaching level 42, the player found himself stuck on an arduous task – evolving Eevee into each of its unique forms. This challenge was so demanding that it took him months to complete. However, he managed to accrue enough XP for two levels in the process. Upon completing this challenge, he found the subsequent quests to be less taxing, allowing him to quickly clear them in three days and level up to 43 using the XP he'd previously stacked.
The challenge requirements for level 44 can be fulfilled by winning just 90 matches in the Pokemon GO Battle League. Seizing this opportunity, JuanG12 decided to focus solely on battling, consciously refraining from catching any Pokemon, winning raids, or spinning any PokeStops. After two days of intense battling, he leveled up to 44, with an activity report that left many baffled - no visits to PokeStops, no Pokemon caught, and no raids won. This remarkable feat quickly gained traction on social media, earning JuanG12 a place on the front page of the r/PokemonGO subreddit.
JuanG12's unique journey is a testament to the diverse experiences that Pokemon GO offers to its players. His method of leveling up was not only unique but also required a great deal of self-restraint, especially in avoiding the temptation to spin PokeStops. In his recount, he mentioned tanking Great Battle League sets after winning two matches to avoid Pokemon encounter rewards, which would have tainted his 'zero-catches' record. This unconventional route to level 44 serves to illustrate the player's dedication and commitment and highlights the multifaceted nature of the game. After all, in the world of Pokemon GO, there's more than one way to become a Pokemon Master! Ethan Montgomery -
![img]()
Best For You In the dynamic digital landscape, online gaming serves as a bridge to keep friendships alive, no matter the distance. With a plethora of games, finding the ideal one that syncs with your friends' preferences can sometimes feel like navigating through a maze. To help you cut through the noise, we have handpicked the top 10 online games you can enjoy with your friends right now, each with its unique flavors of excitement, strategy, and camaraderie.
1. Rust
Starting our list is a survival game that has stood the test of time - Rust. This game offers a thrilling adventure as players wake up in a deserted area, stripped of everything. The objective is simple - gather resources, build structures, and outsmart other players to survive. The game adds more fun when played with friends, making survival easier and the adventure more exciting.
Pros: Rust is a test of cunning and quick thinking. It's an excellent choice when looking for a game that can challenge you and your friends, with its unpredictable environment and intense survival mechanics.
Cons: The game can be quite challenging for beginners and might require more time to get the hang of it.
2. Mortal Kombat 1
For fans of fighting games, Mortal Kombat 1 is a stellar choice. This latest installment in the Mortal Kombat series offers a fresh take on the franchise, introducing classic characters and a revamped fighting system. This game is perfect for friends who enjoy some friendly fighting competition.
Pros: Mortal Kombat 1 offers an immersive fighting experience with its well-rounded characters and diverse fighting styles. The game's multiplayer feature allows for intense battles between friends.
Cons: The game's complexity and variety of moves can be overwhelming for new players.
3. Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic is a cooperative multiplayer first-person shooter game that takes you on an adventure through space. With procedurally generated caves filled with various hazards and creatures, the game keeps you on your toes at all times. It’s more fun when played with friends as you strategize and work together to overcome challenges.
Pros: The game offers an immersive gaming experience with its detailed graphics and complex gameplay mechanics. The cooperative multiplayer mode enhances team play and communication.
Cons: The game can be pretty intense and challenging, especially for new players. The procedural generation of the caves can sometimes feel repetitive.
4. Valheim
For those who have a keen interest in Norse mythology, Valheim offers an exciting exploration and survival game. Players can team up to explore varying biomes, defeat dangerous creatures, and build their own structures. The game's survival aspects add an extra layer of challenge and fun.
Pros: The game provides a unique blend of survival and exploration, making it engaging and addictive. The multiplayer option allows for collaborative gameplay, making it a perfect choice for playing with friends.
Cons: The game is still in the early access stage, so some features might change or be improved over time. As a survival game, it may be challenging for those not familiar with the genre.
5. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, or CS:GO is a legendary shooter game that has inspired many subsequent titles. This game is perfect for friends who enjoy tactical gameplay and competitive matches. The constant updates from the developer keep the game fresh and engaging.
Pros: The game offers a competitive gaming experience with its balanced gameplay and a vast variety of weapons. It also encourages team play and strategy, making it a great game to play with friends.
Cons: The game can be quite challenging for beginners, with its steep learning curve and competitive scene.
6. Party Animals
Party Animals is a fun-filled multiplayer game that lets you control adorable animal characters in a variety of mini-games. From objective-based maps to skirmish modes, there's something for every group of friends in this game. Party Animals is a light-hearted game that guarantees loads of laughter and fun.
Pros: The game's cute and colorful graphics, along with its simple and fun gameplay, make it a great choice for casual gaming sessions with friends.
Cons: The game might lack depth for players looking for a more challenging and strategic experience.
7. Terraria
Terraria is a sandbox game that merges exploration, crafting, and survival elements into a unique gaming experience. This game offers a vast world for players to explore and create, making it a perfect game for friends who enjoy creativity and exploration.
Pros: Terraria's open-world design and crafting system offers endless possibilities, making every gameplay unique. The game's multiplayer mode allows for cooperative play, enhancing the overall experience.
Cons: The game can be a bit overwhelming for new players due to its vast content and lack of clear direction.
8. Diablo 4
The long-awaited Diablo 4 is a perfect game for friends who enjoy a good dungeon crawler. The game offers diverse character classes and engaging combat, coupled with an intriguing story. Diablo 4 is a game that you and your friends can delve into for hours on end.
Pros: Diablo 4 offers a rich and immersive gaming experience with its detailed graphics, well-designed character classes, and engaging storyline. The multiplayer feature enhances the fun, allowing friends to team up and conquer dungeons together.
Cons: The game can be quite challenging, especially for those new to the Diablo series. Also, as the game is story-driven, it requires a significant time commitment.
9. League of Legends
League of Legends (LoL) is a game that needs no introduction. This Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game remains one of the most popular and competitive games around. With a wide range of characters to choose from and deep strategic gameplay, LoL is a perfect game for friends who enjoy a good challenge.
Pros: LoL offers a complex and engaging gameplay with its wide range of characters and strategic elements. The game's competitive scene adds to the excitement, making it an excellent choice for a group of friends.
Cons: The game has a high learning curve and can be quite challenging for beginners. The community can also be competitive, which may not be suited for casual players.
10. Baldur's Gate 3
Baldur's Gate 3 continues the legacy of its predecessors with its intricate character-building, rich story, and deep tactical combat. The game also offers a multiplayer mode, where you and your friends can navigate through the world of Faerûn together, making every decision count.
Pros: The game offers a deep and immersive gaming experience with its well-crafted story and complex gameplay mechanics. The multiplayer feature enhances the gameplay, allowing for collaborative decision-making and strategy.
Cons: The game might be overwhelming for new players due to its deep mechanics and rich story. It also requires a significant time commitment, which might not be suitable for all players.
Conclusion
After careful consideration, Baldur's Gate 3 stands out as the best online game to play with friends at this moment. The intricate character-building, rich storytelling, and freedom of choice that it offers, combined with the multiplayer feature, make it an unforgettable experience. However, each game on this list offers its unique flair and fun, ensuring there is a game for every group of friends. So, gather your friends, pick a game, and embark on an unforgettable virtual adventure together! Ethan Montgomery -
![img]()
Best For You A recent information leak seems to suggest that Google is poised to set new standards within the Android ecosystem. With the Pixel 8 series, Google is reportedly planning to extend software support to an unheard-of seven years. This move, if confirmed, would put Google ahead of its biggest competitor, Samsung, in a significant way. It would mean that Pixel 8 owners can expect their devices to receive the latest security patches, operating system updates, and feature drops for seven cycles, maintaining the device's performance and security over a longer lifespan.
Hardware Upgrades
The Pixel 8 series is expected to come with several exciting hardware upgrades. The Pixel 8 is set to feature a 6.2-inch 60-120Hz AMOLED panel that can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro is anticipated to boast a larger 6.7-inch 1-120Hz LTPO panel with a peak brightness of 2,400 nits, replacing the previous Pixel 7 Pro's 1,600 nits. The Pixel 8 Pro will also reportedly use Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which is more durable than the Gorilla Glass Victus used for the Pixel 8.
Storage and Connectivity
Storage is another area where Google is expected to make significant improvements. The US variant of the Pixel 8 Pro may come with an impressive 1TB option, while the Pixel 8 will offer a maximum of 512GB in other markets. However, the devices may still use the older UFS 3.1 NAND chips. Google is also planning to upgrade connectivity on the Pixel 8 series with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 support. The Pro model will continue to have exclusive access to the Ultra-Wideband chip for another year.
Battery and Charging
Moving on to power, the Pixel 8 may come with a slightly increased battery capacity of 4575mAh, up from the previous model's 4355mAh. The Pixel 8 Pro's battery is expected to remain relatively unchanged at 5050mAh. Wired and wireless charging speeds are likely to mirror those of the Pixel 7, with a 30W USB-C adapter reportedly able to provide a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. It appears that Google will continue to use Qi wireless charging for its 2023 Pixels instead of the newer Qi2 standard.
The most significant news, however, remains the potential for seven years of software support. If the rumor proves accurate, Google will not only leapfrog Samsung but also redefine the software support standard in the Android ecosystem. For context, the Pixel 7 and 7 series are eligible for five years of updates, including three years of OS updates. The extended software support for the Pixel 8 series signifies Google's commitment to longevity and user convenience. It showcases the company's willingness to ensure their devices remain relevant, secure, and up-to-date for an impressively extended period. Emilia Westwood
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Popular on Blog
- Amazing News! The world of Pokemon Go is a thrilling one, populated by countless trainers striving to capture, train, and battle their virtual companions. This popular mobile game, developed by Niantic, has been a staple in the gaming scene since its release in 2016. Recently, one player's unusual method of leveling up has caught the attention of Pokemon GO enthusiasts - a unique feat involving no conventional game activities such as catching Pokemon, winning raids, or visiting PokeStops. This player, Reddit user JuanG12, managed to surge from level 43 to 44, a journey that is both impressive and intriguing. Since its inception, Pokemon GO has had a level cap of 40. However, in a game-changing update rolled out in November 2020, Niantic raised the level cap to 50. This new cap came with an exponential increase in experience points (XP) required for each level, with the 50th level necessitating a whopping 30 million XP. This is tantamount to reaching level 40 six times from scratch! Yet, the biggest hurdle for players lies in the challenge requirements, a fact that our unique player, JuanG12, is acutely aware of. JuanG12’s journey from level 43 to 44 is a testament to his resilience and innovation. On reaching level 42, the player found himself stuck on an arduous task – evolving Eevee into each of its unique forms. This challenge was so demanding that it took him months to complete. However, he managed to accrue enough XP for two levels in the process. Upon completing this challenge, he found the subsequent quests to be less taxing, allowing him to quickly clear them in three days and level up to 43 using the XP he'd previously stacked. The challenge requirements for level 44 can be fulfilled by winning just 90 matches in the Pokemon GO Battle League. Seizing this opportunity, JuanG12 decided to focus solely on battling, consciously refraining from catching any Pokemon, winning raids, or spinning any PokeStops. After two days of intense battling, he leveled up to 44, with an activity report that left many baffled - no visits to PokeStops, no Pokemon caught, and no raids won. This remarkable feat quickly gained traction on social media, earning JuanG12 a place on the front page of the r/PokemonGO subreddit. JuanG12's unique journey is a testament to the diverse experiences that Pokemon GO offers to its players. His method of leveling up was not only unique but also required a great deal of self-restraint, especially in avoiding the temptation to spin PokeStops. In his recount, he mentioned tanking Great Battle League sets after winning two matches to avoid Pokemon encounter rewards, which would have tainted his 'zero-catches' record. This unconventional route to level 44 serves to illustrate the player's dedication and commitment and highlights the multifaceted nature of the game. After all, in the world of Pokemon GO, there's more than one way to become a Pokemon Master! Ethan Montgomery
- Best For You In the dynamic digital landscape, online gaming serves as a bridge to keep friendships alive, no matter the distance. With a plethora of games, finding the ideal one that syncs with your friends' preferences can sometimes feel like navigating through a maze. To help you cut through the noise, we have handpicked the top 10 online games you can enjoy with your friends right now, each with its unique flavors of excitement, strategy, and camaraderie. 1. Rust Starting our list is a survival game that has stood the test of time - Rust. This game offers a thrilling adventure as players wake up in a deserted area, stripped of everything. The objective is simple - gather resources, build structures, and outsmart other players to survive. The game adds more fun when played with friends, making survival easier and the adventure more exciting. Pros: Rust is a test of cunning and quick thinking. It's an excellent choice when looking for a game that can challenge you and your friends, with its unpredictable environment and intense survival mechanics. Cons: The game can be quite challenging for beginners and might require more time to get the hang of it. 2. Mortal Kombat 1 For fans of fighting games, Mortal Kombat 1 is a stellar choice. This latest installment in the Mortal Kombat series offers a fresh take on the franchise, introducing classic characters and a revamped fighting system. This game is perfect for friends who enjoy some friendly fighting competition. Pros: Mortal Kombat 1 offers an immersive fighting experience with its well-rounded characters and diverse fighting styles. The game's multiplayer feature allows for intense battles between friends. Cons: The game's complexity and variety of moves can be overwhelming for new players. 3. Deep Rock Galactic Deep Rock Galactic is a cooperative multiplayer first-person shooter game that takes you on an adventure through space. With procedurally generated caves filled with various hazards and creatures, the game keeps you on your toes at all times. It’s more fun when played with friends as you strategize and work together to overcome challenges. Pros: The game offers an immersive gaming experience with its detailed graphics and complex gameplay mechanics. The cooperative multiplayer mode enhances team play and communication. Cons: The game can be pretty intense and challenging, especially for new players. The procedural generation of the caves can sometimes feel repetitive. 4. Valheim For those who have a keen interest in Norse mythology, Valheim offers an exciting exploration and survival game. Players can team up to explore varying biomes, defeat dangerous creatures, and build their own structures. The game's survival aspects add an extra layer of challenge and fun. Pros: The game provides a unique blend of survival and exploration, making it engaging and addictive. The multiplayer option allows for collaborative gameplay, making it a perfect choice for playing with friends. Cons: The game is still in the early access stage, so some features might change or be improved over time. As a survival game, it may be challenging for those not familiar with the genre. 5. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, or CS:GO is a legendary shooter game that has inspired many subsequent titles. This game is perfect for friends who enjoy tactical gameplay and competitive matches. The constant updates from the developer keep the game fresh and engaging. Pros: The game offers a competitive gaming experience with its balanced gameplay and a vast variety of weapons. It also encourages team play and strategy, making it a great game to play with friends. Cons: The game can be quite challenging for beginners, with its steep learning curve and competitive scene. 6. Party Animals Party Animals is a fun-filled multiplayer game that lets you control adorable animal characters in a variety of mini-games. From objective-based maps to skirmish modes, there's something for every group of friends in this game. Party Animals is a light-hearted game that guarantees loads of laughter and fun. Pros: The game's cute and colorful graphics, along with its simple and fun gameplay, make it a great choice for casual gaming sessions with friends. Cons: The game might lack depth for players looking for a more challenging and strategic experience. 7. Terraria Terraria is a sandbox game that merges exploration, crafting, and survival elements into a unique gaming experience. This game offers a vast world for players to explore and create, making it a perfect game for friends who enjoy creativity and exploration. Pros: Terraria's open-world design and crafting system offers endless possibilities, making every gameplay unique. The game's multiplayer mode allows for cooperative play, enhancing the overall experience. Cons: The game can be a bit overwhelming for new players due to its vast content and lack of clear direction. 8. Diablo 4 The long-awaited Diablo 4 is a perfect game for friends who enjoy a good dungeon crawler. The game offers diverse character classes and engaging combat, coupled with an intriguing story. Diablo 4 is a game that you and your friends can delve into for hours on end. Pros: Diablo 4 offers a rich and immersive gaming experience with its detailed graphics, well-designed character classes, and engaging storyline. The multiplayer feature enhances the fun, allowing friends to team up and conquer dungeons together. Cons: The game can be quite challenging, especially for those new to the Diablo series. Also, as the game is story-driven, it requires a significant time commitment. 9. League of Legends League of Legends (LoL) is a game that needs no introduction. This Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game remains one of the most popular and competitive games around. With a wide range of characters to choose from and deep strategic gameplay, LoL is a perfect game for friends who enjoy a good challenge. Pros: LoL offers a complex and engaging gameplay with its wide range of characters and strategic elements. The game's competitive scene adds to the excitement, making it an excellent choice for a group of friends. Cons: The game has a high learning curve and can be quite challenging for beginners. The community can also be competitive, which may not be suited for casual players. 10. Baldur's Gate 3 Baldur's Gate 3 continues the legacy of its predecessors with its intricate character-building, rich story, and deep tactical combat. The game also offers a multiplayer mode, where you and your friends can navigate through the world of Faerûn together, making every decision count. Pros: The game offers a deep and immersive gaming experience with its well-crafted story and complex gameplay mechanics. The multiplayer feature enhances the gameplay, allowing for collaborative decision-making and strategy. Cons: The game might be overwhelming for new players due to its deep mechanics and rich story. It also requires a significant time commitment, which might not be suitable for all players. Conclusion After careful consideration, Baldur's Gate 3 stands out as the best online game to play with friends at this moment. The intricate character-building, rich storytelling, and freedom of choice that it offers, combined with the multiplayer feature, make it an unforgettable experience. However, each game on this list offers its unique flair and fun, ensuring there is a game for every group of friends. So, gather your friends, pick a game, and embark on an unforgettable virtual adventure together! Ethan Montgomery
- Best For You A recent information leak seems to suggest that Google is poised to set new standards within the Android ecosystem. With the Pixel 8 series, Google is reportedly planning to extend software support to an unheard-of seven years. This move, if confirmed, would put Google ahead of its biggest competitor, Samsung, in a significant way. It would mean that Pixel 8 owners can expect their devices to receive the latest security patches, operating system updates, and feature drops for seven cycles, maintaining the device's performance and security over a longer lifespan. Hardware Upgrades The Pixel 8 series is expected to come with several exciting hardware upgrades. The Pixel 8 is set to feature a 6.2-inch 60-120Hz AMOLED panel that can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro is anticipated to boast a larger 6.7-inch 1-120Hz LTPO panel with a peak brightness of 2,400 nits, replacing the previous Pixel 7 Pro's 1,600 nits. The Pixel 8 Pro will also reportedly use Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which is more durable than the Gorilla Glass Victus used for the Pixel 8. Storage and Connectivity Storage is another area where Google is expected to make significant improvements. The US variant of the Pixel 8 Pro may come with an impressive 1TB option, while the Pixel 8 will offer a maximum of 512GB in other markets. However, the devices may still use the older UFS 3.1 NAND chips. Google is also planning to upgrade connectivity on the Pixel 8 series with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 support. The Pro model will continue to have exclusive access to the Ultra-Wideband chip for another year. Battery and Charging Moving on to power, the Pixel 8 may come with a slightly increased battery capacity of 4575mAh, up from the previous model's 4355mAh. The Pixel 8 Pro's battery is expected to remain relatively unchanged at 5050mAh. Wired and wireless charging speeds are likely to mirror those of the Pixel 7, with a 30W USB-C adapter reportedly able to provide a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. It appears that Google will continue to use Qi wireless charging for its 2023 Pixels instead of the newer Qi2 standard. The most significant news, however, remains the potential for seven years of software support. If the rumor proves accurate, Google will not only leapfrog Samsung but also redefine the software support standard in the Android ecosystem. For context, the Pixel 7 and 7 series are eligible for five years of updates, including three years of OS updates. The extended software support for the Pixel 8 series signifies Google's commitment to longevity and user convenience. It showcases the company's willingness to ensure their devices remain relevant, secure, and up-to-date for an impressively extended period. Emilia Westwood
-
![img]()
Amazing News! The world of Pokemon Go is a thrilling one, populated by countless trainers striving to capture, train, and battle their virtual companions. This popular mobile game, developed by Niantic, has been a staple in the gaming scene since its release in 2016. Recently, one player's unusual method of leveling up has caught the attention of Pokemon GO enthusiasts - a unique feat involving no conventional game activities such as catching Pokemon, winning raids, or visiting PokeStops. This player, Reddit user JuanG12, managed to surge from level 43 to 44, a journey that is both impressive and intriguing.
Since its inception, Pokemon GO has had a level cap of 40. However, in a game-changing update rolled out in November 2020, Niantic raised the level cap to 50. This new cap came with an exponential increase in experience points (XP) required for each level, with the 50th level necessitating a whopping 30 million XP. This is tantamount to reaching level 40 six times from scratch! Yet, the biggest hurdle for players lies in the challenge requirements, a fact that our unique player, JuanG12, is acutely aware of.
JuanG12’s journey from level 43 to 44 is a testament to his resilience and innovation. On reaching level 42, the player found himself stuck on an arduous task – evolving Eevee into each of its unique forms. This challenge was so demanding that it took him months to complete. However, he managed to accrue enough XP for two levels in the process. Upon completing this challenge, he found the subsequent quests to be less taxing, allowing him to quickly clear them in three days and level up to 43 using the XP he'd previously stacked.
The challenge requirements for level 44 can be fulfilled by winning just 90 matches in the Pokemon GO Battle League. Seizing this opportunity, JuanG12 decided to focus solely on battling, consciously refraining from catching any Pokemon, winning raids, or spinning any PokeStops. After two days of intense battling, he leveled up to 44, with an activity report that left many baffled - no visits to PokeStops, no Pokemon caught, and no raids won. This remarkable feat quickly gained traction on social media, earning JuanG12 a place on the front page of the r/PokemonGO subreddit.
JuanG12's unique journey is a testament to the diverse experiences that Pokemon GO offers to its players. His method of leveling up was not only unique but also required a great deal of self-restraint, especially in avoiding the temptation to spin PokeStops. In his recount, he mentioned tanking Great Battle League sets after winning two matches to avoid Pokemon encounter rewards, which would have tainted his 'zero-catches' record. This unconventional route to level 44 serves to illustrate the player's dedication and commitment and highlights the multifaceted nature of the game. After all, in the world of Pokemon GO, there's more than one way to become a Pokemon Master! Ethan Montgomery -
![img]()
Best For You In the dynamic digital landscape, online gaming serves as a bridge to keep friendships alive, no matter the distance. With a plethora of games, finding the ideal one that syncs with your friends' preferences can sometimes feel like navigating through a maze. To help you cut through the noise, we have handpicked the top 10 online games you can enjoy with your friends right now, each with its unique flavors of excitement, strategy, and camaraderie.
1. Rust
Starting our list is a survival game that has stood the test of time - Rust. This game offers a thrilling adventure as players wake up in a deserted area, stripped of everything. The objective is simple - gather resources, build structures, and outsmart other players to survive. The game adds more fun when played with friends, making survival easier and the adventure more exciting.
Pros: Rust is a test of cunning and quick thinking. It's an excellent choice when looking for a game that can challenge you and your friends, with its unpredictable environment and intense survival mechanics.
Cons: The game can be quite challenging for beginners and might require more time to get the hang of it.
2. Mortal Kombat 1
For fans of fighting games, Mortal Kombat 1 is a stellar choice. This latest installment in the Mortal Kombat series offers a fresh take on the franchise, introducing classic characters and a revamped fighting system. This game is perfect for friends who enjoy some friendly fighting competition.
Pros: Mortal Kombat 1 offers an immersive fighting experience with its well-rounded characters and diverse fighting styles. The game's multiplayer feature allows for intense battles between friends.
Cons: The game's complexity and variety of moves can be overwhelming for new players.
3. Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic is a cooperative multiplayer first-person shooter game that takes you on an adventure through space. With procedurally generated caves filled with various hazards and creatures, the game keeps you on your toes at all times. It’s more fun when played with friends as you strategize and work together to overcome challenges.
Pros: The game offers an immersive gaming experience with its detailed graphics and complex gameplay mechanics. The cooperative multiplayer mode enhances team play and communication.
Cons: The game can be pretty intense and challenging, especially for new players. The procedural generation of the caves can sometimes feel repetitive.
4. Valheim
For those who have a keen interest in Norse mythology, Valheim offers an exciting exploration and survival game. Players can team up to explore varying biomes, defeat dangerous creatures, and build their own structures. The game's survival aspects add an extra layer of challenge and fun.
Pros: The game provides a unique blend of survival and exploration, making it engaging and addictive. The multiplayer option allows for collaborative gameplay, making it a perfect choice for playing with friends.
Cons: The game is still in the early access stage, so some features might change or be improved over time. As a survival game, it may be challenging for those not familiar with the genre.
5. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, or CS:GO is a legendary shooter game that has inspired many subsequent titles. This game is perfect for friends who enjoy tactical gameplay and competitive matches. The constant updates from the developer keep the game fresh and engaging.
Pros: The game offers a competitive gaming experience with its balanced gameplay and a vast variety of weapons. It also encourages team play and strategy, making it a great game to play with friends.
Cons: The game can be quite challenging for beginners, with its steep learning curve and competitive scene.
6. Party Animals
Party Animals is a fun-filled multiplayer game that lets you control adorable animal characters in a variety of mini-games. From objective-based maps to skirmish modes, there's something for every group of friends in this game. Party Animals is a light-hearted game that guarantees loads of laughter and fun.
Pros: The game's cute and colorful graphics, along with its simple and fun gameplay, make it a great choice for casual gaming sessions with friends.
Cons: The game might lack depth for players looking for a more challenging and strategic experience.
7. Terraria
Terraria is a sandbox game that merges exploration, crafting, and survival elements into a unique gaming experience. This game offers a vast world for players to explore and create, making it a perfect game for friends who enjoy creativity and exploration.
Pros: Terraria's open-world design and crafting system offers endless possibilities, making every gameplay unique. The game's multiplayer mode allows for cooperative play, enhancing the overall experience.
Cons: The game can be a bit overwhelming for new players due to its vast content and lack of clear direction.
8. Diablo 4
The long-awaited Diablo 4 is a perfect game for friends who enjoy a good dungeon crawler. The game offers diverse character classes and engaging combat, coupled with an intriguing story. Diablo 4 is a game that you and your friends can delve into for hours on end.
Pros: Diablo 4 offers a rich and immersive gaming experience with its detailed graphics, well-designed character classes, and engaging storyline. The multiplayer feature enhances the fun, allowing friends to team up and conquer dungeons together.
Cons: The game can be quite challenging, especially for those new to the Diablo series. Also, as the game is story-driven, it requires a significant time commitment.
9. League of Legends
League of Legends (LoL) is a game that needs no introduction. This Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game remains one of the most popular and competitive games around. With a wide range of characters to choose from and deep strategic gameplay, LoL is a perfect game for friends who enjoy a good challenge.
Pros: LoL offers a complex and engaging gameplay with its wide range of characters and strategic elements. The game's competitive scene adds to the excitement, making it an excellent choice for a group of friends.
Cons: The game has a high learning curve and can be quite challenging for beginners. The community can also be competitive, which may not be suited for casual players.
10. Baldur's Gate 3
Baldur's Gate 3 continues the legacy of its predecessors with its intricate character-building, rich story, and deep tactical combat. The game also offers a multiplayer mode, where you and your friends can navigate through the world of Faerûn together, making every decision count.
Pros: The game offers a deep and immersive gaming experience with its well-crafted story and complex gameplay mechanics. The multiplayer feature enhances the gameplay, allowing for collaborative decision-making and strategy.
Cons: The game might be overwhelming for new players due to its deep mechanics and rich story. It also requires a significant time commitment, which might not be suitable for all players.
Conclusion
After careful consideration, Baldur's Gate 3 stands out as the best online game to play with friends at this moment. The intricate character-building, rich storytelling, and freedom of choice that it offers, combined with the multiplayer feature, make it an unforgettable experience. However, each game on this list offers its unique flair and fun, ensuring there is a game for every group of friends. So, gather your friends, pick a game, and embark on an unforgettable virtual adventure together! Ethan Montgomery -
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Best For You A recent information leak seems to suggest that Google is poised to set new standards within the Android ecosystem. With the Pixel 8 series, Google is reportedly planning to extend software support to an unheard-of seven years. This move, if confirmed, would put Google ahead of its biggest competitor, Samsung, in a significant way. It would mean that Pixel 8 owners can expect their devices to receive the latest security patches, operating system updates, and feature drops for seven cycles, maintaining the device's performance and security over a longer lifespan.
Hardware Upgrades
The Pixel 8 series is expected to come with several exciting hardware upgrades. The Pixel 8 is set to feature a 6.2-inch 60-120Hz AMOLED panel that can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro is anticipated to boast a larger 6.7-inch 1-120Hz LTPO panel with a peak brightness of 2,400 nits, replacing the previous Pixel 7 Pro's 1,600 nits. The Pixel 8 Pro will also reportedly use Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which is more durable than the Gorilla Glass Victus used for the Pixel 8.
Storage and Connectivity
Storage is another area where Google is expected to make significant improvements. The US variant of the Pixel 8 Pro may come with an impressive 1TB option, while the Pixel 8 will offer a maximum of 512GB in other markets. However, the devices may still use the older UFS 3.1 NAND chips. Google is also planning to upgrade connectivity on the Pixel 8 series with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 support. The Pro model will continue to have exclusive access to the Ultra-Wideband chip for another year.
Battery and Charging
Moving on to power, the Pixel 8 may come with a slightly increased battery capacity of 4575mAh, up from the previous model's 4355mAh. The Pixel 8 Pro's battery is expected to remain relatively unchanged at 5050mAh. Wired and wireless charging speeds are likely to mirror those of the Pixel 7, with a 30W USB-C adapter reportedly able to provide a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. It appears that Google will continue to use Qi wireless charging for its 2023 Pixels instead of the newer Qi2 standard.
The most significant news, however, remains the potential for seven years of software support. If the rumor proves accurate, Google will not only leapfrog Samsung but also redefine the software support standard in the Android ecosystem. For context, the Pixel 7 and 7 series are eligible for five years of updates, including three years of OS updates. The extended software support for the Pixel 8 series signifies Google's commitment to longevity and user convenience. It showcases the company's willingness to ensure their devices remain relevant, secure, and up-to-date for an impressively extended period. Emilia Westwood -
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Amazing News! The upcoming release of Football Manager 2024 by Sega has been set for November 6. The game will be accessible on PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and smartphones. This marks the 20th edition of the Football Manager game series and its inaugural release in Japan. The game will be available on Xbox Game Pass for PC and Xbox Series X/S at launch.
Football Manager 2024 Mobile will additionally be offered to Netflix subscribers. This comes after FM23 Touch was featured on Apple Arcade. Sports Interactive, led by Miles Jacobson, noted the team's excitement over the game's introduction in Japan, the inclusion of Japanese language, and the prospect of a growing player base through Netflix access.
Consumers can now avail of pre-orders with a 10% discount until release day. This also comes with an early access period for PC/Mac users about two weeks before the official launch. Fans should anticipate a major overhaul in the series after Football Manager 2024, in preparation for FM25. Ethan Montgomery -
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Best For You Browse through these vivid gaming worlds that blend the horror and adventure genres just as brilliantly as "The Medium." Each exposure to paranormal entities, the solving of dark mysteries, and the exploration of eerie environments will leave players white-knuckling their controllers as they traverse through these fantastic alternatives.
1. "Alan Wake"
Introduction to Alan Wake
If you're a fan of Stephen King's books, then "Alan Wake" might be the perfect alternative to "The Medium" for you. This action-adventure game developed by Remedy Entertainment presents a mix of psychological thriller and cinematic gameplay that sets players on a unique journey.
Gameplay, Story, and Setting of Alan Wake
In "Alan Wake", you play the role of a best-selling thriller novelist, grappling with his wife's mysterious disappearance while on a retreat in the small, idyllic town of Bright Falls. The gameplay combines elements of direct combat and puzzle-solving with the use of light to combat shadowy entities. What makes this game particularly compelling is the episodic narrative, each structured in the style of a television series, which unravels the story layer by layer as you explore the seemingly serene town that hosts an eerie underbelly.
2. "Observer"
Introduction to Observer
Developed by Bloober Team, "Observer" is a cyberpunk horror game that embraces psychological scares and engaging story-telling with an intriguingly dark setting. It's an exciting blend of traditional narrative storytelling and interactive gameplay that keeps you invested in the plot.
Gameplay, Story, and Setting of Observer
Set in a dystopian future in 2084 Poland, players assume the role of a neural detective known as an Observer, voiced by the famous actor Rutger Hauer. As an Observer, your job is to hack into the minds of suspects and victims to solve crimes. But, delving into the darkest corners of a person’s mind brings with it psychological horrors and ambiguities of reality. The gameplay is mainly exploration and puzzle-solving, with a compelling and disturbing narrative you can't help but get lost in.
3. "Until Dawn"
Introduction to Until Dawn
"Until Dawn" is a dramatic horror adventure game developed by Supermassive Games that provides a unique cinematic experience borrowing elements from popular teen horror films. This title stands out with its exceptional replay value due to its multiple endings based on player's choices.
Gameplay, Story, and Setting of Until Dawn
The game places you in control of eight young adults who must survive a night on a remote mountain retreat, haunted by a mysterious evil. The gameplay features a 'butterfly-effect' system where players must make choices that can dramatically affect the story's outcome, even leading to the character's death. Everything from the beautifully rendered settings to the intriguing plotlines make for gripping gameplay, best experienced with friends on hand for moral support!
4. "SOMA"
Introduction to SOMA
Frictional Games' "SOMA" is a science-fiction survival horror game that offers an intellectually stimulating story. With its narrative focus and dreadful atmosphere, "SOMA" might appeal to fans of "The Medium" leaning towards sci-fi themes.
Gameplay, Story, and Setting of SOMA
"SOMA" is set in an underwater remote research facility with machinery that begins to acquire human characteristics. The vehicle of the narrative is a protagonist named Simon who finds himself at this facility under mysterious circumstances. As players navigate through the deserted facility, encountering various hazards, they unravel Simon's story and the underpinning dark secret the facility holds. The gameplay is heavily anchored on exploration, puzzle-solving, and evading monsters. With no combat, the tension and fear are solely built by the chilling biomechanical world around you.
5. "Dead Space"
Introduction to Dead Space
Developer Visceral Games' "Dead Space" is an iconic title that perfectly fuses survival and horror in a foreboding sci-fi environment teeming with unimaginable horrors. This immersive game is sure to please "The Medium" fans searching for an action-packed, terrifying ride.
Gameplay, Story, and Setting of Dead Space
Set in the cold blackness of deep space, the nightmarish scenario begins aboard a mining spaceship where things have gone incredibly wrong. The player character, Isaac Clarke, is an engineer who must fight his way through undead alien creatures called Necromorphs using improvised weapons. With a genuine sense of dread, pulse-pounding action, unique gameplay mechanisms like zero-gravity environments, and a deeply layered narrative, "Dead Space" is an unforgettable terrifying journey into the darkest corners of the cosmos.
These "The Medium" alternatives each hold unique experiences, breathing fresh life into the horror-adventure landscape with compelling stories, unforgettable characters, and wholly immersive gameplay that do not shy away from serving players a heaping dose of chills and thrills. Pick any and delve into a gripping journey that will linger long after the game is over. Emilia Westwood -
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Amazing News! SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake will receive a free upgrade for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, as announced by THQ Nordic. This upgraded version, set to be available on October 16th, can be previewed through the announcement trailer below.
The game upgrade also extends to those playing on PC, Switch, PS4, and Xbox One, where additional game features will be introduced. These include a photo mode that comes with 19 unique filters for players to apply to their Bikini Bottom captures.
With this upgrade, THQ and Purple Lamp also plan to address various game bugs, including random save incidents and instances where gameplay continued amidst the loading screen. These fixes should enhance the game's playability and stability across all platforms.
Lastly, players will also get a chance to collect new costumes, namely, King Doubloon and Plush Gary, available now. The King Doubloon can be collected through obtaining all doubloons, while Plush Gary is unlocked after claiming all rewards. Emilia Westwood -
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Amazing News! Prolonged suspense and anticipation have finally led to immense excitement for avid fans of the Final Fantasy franchise. In an unexpected move that’s sure to delight millions the world over, the developers of Final Fantasy 16 have officially announced a flagship PC version. Yes, you read it right. The gaming gem that was initially platformed exclusively for PlayStation 5 is now all set to enthrall computer users!
Earlier, the developer team, Creative Business Unit 3, had left fans on tenterhooks, creating a shroud of doubt around the development of a PC port or questionnaire content for immediate release post-launch and during a talk with Game Informer, producer Naoki Yoshida, affectionately known as Yoshi-P, even stated that they had no plans for downloadable content (DLC). He described Final Fantasy 16 as a standalone game and expressed an anticipation-laced uncertainty about whether players would yearn for more adventures in Valisthea or warm up to character stories.
However, heartening revelations came directly from Yoshi-P via a video posted on the official Twitter account for Final Fantasy 16. While announcing a flurry of updates for the game, he wrapped up his speech with the news that everyone had been waiting for – the development of a PC version. Although he did not give away any specific details or a release date, he promised additional information by the year-end, sending the whole gaming community into a frenzy of excitement.
Along with the PC version announcement, Yoshi-P delightfully shared that a free update to Final Fantasy 16 would be soon available for download with various new additions. Some fan-pleasing features included a transmog system for Clive's weapon, alternative outfits for characters Clive, Jill, Torgal, Ambrosia, and Joshua, more controller layouts, and other new-player-friendly additions. The existence of two paid DLCs currently in progress was also subtly hinted at without giving much away.
The announcement also lightly touched upon the possibility of Final Fantasy 16 making its way to Xbox consoles, following the news of Final Fantasy 14's announcement for Xbox. Although the timeline for these releases remains uncertain, one thing is assured – Final Fantasy 16 is set for fresh waves of success and popularity! The seasoned wizardry of Final Fantasy weaving its magic spell over a new platform is undoubtedly a thrilling prospect for players globally. Here’s to the start of another classic gaming experience for PC users! Ethan Montgomery -
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Amazing News! In a stride towards creating a safer online dating environment, Bumble, one of the leading dating app companies, has announced an update to its community guidelines. The guidelines are set to be more stringent, primarily focusing on curbing bot activity, ghosting, and doxing on their platform. The changes also apply to Badoo, another of their dating platforms.
The new regulations are directed toward eliminating the artificial influence on connections, matchings, conversations, and user engagement via automation or scripting. It's eye-opening to note that Bumble has blocked over 8.2 million accounts this year alone, with a significant number of these flagged by the company’s AI system developed specially to detect and filter out fake and spam accounts.
Investing efforts in developing machine-learning models, Bumble is committed to making its platform safer. The company notably open-sourced its algorithm last year to detect unsolicited explicit images, demonstrating its active role in combatting unwelcomed content. Additionally, the updated guidelines will strengthen prohibitions against adult content, taking action against those trying to buy, sell, or promote sexual content.
In a move to reduce the disappointing practice of ghosting, Bumble has updated its regulations to include "no-shows" under the term 'bullying and abusive conduct.' Ghosting, usually reflecting a lack of respect and empathy, often leaves many users dejected and frustrated. In the past, Bumble had urged users not to take ghosting to heart, but now, it seems that they are taking a firmer stance to eliminate such practices.
To conclude, Bumble is resolute in mitigating acts of doxing and victim-blaming, considering these as rule-breaking offenses falling under the "Bullying and Abusive Conduct policies." The enforcement of these guidelines will roll out in all areas of the company's ecosystem, including Bumble, Badoo, and the new Bumble For Friends (BFF) app. It's interesting to see how Bumble will manage to tackle off-platform violations and if they plan to enhance their reporting options in light of these updated guidelines. With these changes, Bumble continues to pioneer in shaping a safe and positive dating atmosphere. Emilia Westwood -
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Editor's Advice In the gripping world of Alan Wake 2, the adventures of the titular character are already well-known to gamers. However, the developers have decided to switch things up a bit and introduce us to a new character - Saga Anderson - adding fresh dimensions to the gameplay. Not only is she tasked with unraveling the mystery behind one of the game's antagonists, Robert Nightingale, but players will experience the unique position of maneuvering through the narrative as a character controlled by Alan Wake. Here's what we know so far about Saga Anderson.
Saga Anderson: The Mysterious FBI Agent
Saga Anderson is showcased as an FBI agent who, alongside Agent Alex Casey, is entrusted with the investigation of Robert Nightingale's disappearance. As an integral character, her role appears to go beyond simply following Wake's decisions; she might even be aware of the narrative's control, offering players a unique take on the gaming experience.
Addressing the Protagonist Problem in Horror Games
Every recurring horror protagonist in a game series faces a common challenge: repetitiveness. Sequels can often fall into the trap of throwing the same obstacles at the main character, diminishing the horror factor over time. While some games like Resident Evil morph their protagonists into action heroes, or Silent Hill introduces new characters, Alan Wake 2 seems to have found another approach: transitioning towards psychological horror.
The Gamescom Trailer: A Sneak Peek into Saga's World
The recent Gamescom trailer of Alan Wake 2 provides players with a glimpse of the haunting world Saga Anderson will traverse. Reminiscent of the first game, Alan Wake struggles with his memory whilst being confronted with the daunting task of finding a lost book in the midst of bizarre occurrences. However, these narrative intricacies seem to hint at Saga Anderson's story possibly serving as a refreshing perspective.
Saga Anderson's Unique Insight
Where Saga Anderson's storyline could potentially stand out is in its distinct angle. The existential horror of being a character within a narrative controlled by Alan Wake presents an unexplored realm of horror gaming. Players will get to experience the story through the eyes of a character who could potentially be cognizant of their fate being dictated by another.
Looking Forward
While marketing for the game does its fair share of maintaining the suspense by being vague, one thing is clear - Alan Wake 2 will be no ordinary play. Injecting fresh perspectives into horror gaming, Saga Anderson is poised to become the fulcrum of a unique narrative, making her story arguably even more compelling than Alan Wake's. With a victim to Wake's storytelling at the forefront, players can look forward to an exciting and diverse gaming experience.
As we await more information on Saga Anderson and Alan Wake 2's universe, one thing is certain - nothing in this game will be as it seems. Emilia Westwood
