Console Gaming | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/category/console-gaming/ Awe-inspiring science reporting, technology news, and DIY projects. Skunks to space robots, primates to climates. That's Popular Science, 145 years strong. Mon, 27 Nov 2023 19:30:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.popsci.com/uploads/2021/04/28/cropped-PSC3.png?auto=webp&width=32&height=32 Console Gaming | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/category/console-gaming/ 32 32 This is your last chance to save $100 on an Xbox Series X during Cyber Monday https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-gaming-deals-playstation-xbox-nintendo-cyber-monday-2023/ Sun, 26 Nov 2023 22:17:35 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=592123
The best Cyber Monday gaming deals
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Also save big on Xbox Series, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch games, plus gaming PCs and accessories, during these limited-time sales.

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The best Cyber Monday gaming deals
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You’re in luck if you’ve resisted the temptation of Black Friday deals to get your gaming deals. You can still save hundreds of dollars on a new console gaming PC and get deep discounts on plenty of games across every major platform. These deals are going fast, so while your patience has been rewarded, it can also be your undoing if you don’t act quickly enough.

Xbox Series X $399.99 (w/ clickable coupon, Was $499.99)

Xbox Series X

Microsoft

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The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s most powerful game console to date, capable of playing 4K games at up to 120 frames per second with HDR (High Dynamic Range) enabled. It can play Xbox One and some Xbox 360 games as well. The system can play game discs but comes equipped with a 1TB SSD to store digital games as well. This $100 Cyber Monday discount brings the console down to its lowest price ever, and it likely won’t stay there for very long. And don’t forget to grab some great games:

Xbox Series X/S game deals

PlayStation 5 game deals

Nintendo Switch game deals

Razer deals

MSI deals

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]]> Get in the game with $130 off the limited-time PlayStation 5 Slim Spider-Man 2 bundle for Black Friday https://www.popsci.com/gear/playstation-5-slim-deals-gaming-msi-nintendo-xbox-amazon-black-friday/ Tue, 21 Nov 2023 20:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591018
PlayStation 5 Slim Black Friday deal
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Score deals on game consoles, PCs, and accessories, and more for Black Friday on Amazon.

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PlayStation 5 Slim Black Friday deal
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Whether you rock a console or have built your own custom gaming PC, there’s never been a better time to play games. There’s more variety than ever, and always something to play regardless of your genre of choice, budget, or time commitment. Black Friday is a great time to pick up a discounted console, computer, games, or accessories you’ve had your eye on. We personally have had our eye on a few things, too, and we’re more than happy to share the deals we found.

PlayStation 5 Console Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Bundle $499 (Was $559.99)

PlayStation 5 Console Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Bundle

Sony

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The PlayStation 5 Slim is Sony’s latest revision of its newest home console. As its name implies, it’s smaller than the previous PS5 design, which means it’ll have an easier time fitting into your media center or behind your TV. It’s equipped with a 1TB solid-state drive, comes with a single controller, and has Astro’s Playroom, a game developed by Sony, preinstalled. The PlayStation 5’s library is varied—you can find a lot of great discounts on the hottest titles below—but Sony has gone the extra mile with this Black Friday deal by including a digital copy of Marvel Spider-Man 2 in this bundle. The game costs $70 on its own, so you’re saving a total of $130 when you pick up this set.

PlayStation 5 Disc Edition $449 (was $499)

Xbox Series X

Microsoft

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If by some weird chance you’re not a Spider-Man fan (or a Spider-Fan), then you can currently score a disc-drive version of the PS5 for just $449 at Amazon. You get the console and one controller with a $50 discount left over to buy whatever game your little heard desires.

PlayStation 5 game deals

Xbox Series X/S game deals

Nintendo Switch game deals

Razer deals

MSI deals

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]]> The best cheap gaming monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-cheap-gaming-monitors/ Tue, 07 Dec 2021 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=413966
The best cheap gaming monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Get your game on while still being able to afford games.

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The best cheap gaming monitors
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Best overall Samsung Odyssey G4 Samsung Odyssey G40B
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A 1080P display with a variable 240Hz refresh rate and screen adjustment options? For less than $250? That’s a killer deal.
Best curved monitor Gigabyte G27QC is the best cheap gaming monitor. Gigabyte Curved Gaming Monitor (G27QC A)
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Curved displays are an acquired taste, but the Gigabyte G27QC A has many great qualities for a budget monitor.
Best 4K Monitor LG UltraFine LG UltraFine 4K
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Doing 4K right is costly, but the LG UltraFine gets you pretty close for less than $400.

Cheap gaming monitors have come a long way since the days of having to choose between framerate, display quality, and price. Advances in screen technology and the continued rise in popularity of coming gaming—driven by everything from VR to Apple taking it more seriously—have forced monitor makers to focus on both value and the cutting edge. Don’t get us wrong, you can still spend thousands of dollars on a monitor, but the point is that you don’t need to. The best cheap gaming monitors will allow you to enjoy the latest titles while saving money for PC upgrades like a new graphics card.

How we chose the best cheap gaming monitors

The gaming monitor space is flush with solid options, and picking between them can feel like splitting hairs once you narrow down what you want. A high refresh rate monitor is generally preferable to a high-resolution display because fidelity makes a bigger difference when playing games online or offline. Games running at a low frame rate feel sluggish and will dog you through every play session. A 1080P gaming monitor with a high refresh rate is still the way to go for many players.

We also considered the display size since not everybody has enough space for a 32-inch gaming monitor. Even a 27-inch gaming monitor can be pushing it. Large gaming monitors are great, but having a screen that engulfs your entire desk may not be feasible, especially if you use the same computer (or even area) for both work and play.

To choose our recommendations, we looked for the sweet spot between key gaming features and specs, with an affordable price for the product. Everybody’s definition of “cheap” is different based on their individual budgetary constraints, but we set a price cap of $400. Many of our cheap gaming monitor recommendations are far less expensive, so every type of gamer can be properly accommodated.

The best cheap gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you understand what to look for, these are our picks for the best cheap gaming monitors you can get right now. While monitors often feature similar specs, each display has some unique qualities that make it especially well-suited to a certain kind of gaming setup.

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G40B

Samsung Odyssey G4

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: A 1080P display with a 240Hz refresh rate and screen adjustment options? For less than $250? That’s a killer deal.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, Height, Swivel, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync Compatible/FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • 240Hz with G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility
  • Height, tilt, and swivel adjustments
  • Auto Switch+ makes using it with multiple systems more convenient

Cons

  • Weak HDR

Samsung’s Odyssey G40B proves you don’t have to spend a lot to get a great gaming monitor. For roughly half of our budget cap, you’re getting an ultra-fast display that many games won’t even be able to take advantage of. The G40B’s frame rate is the show’s star, but its support of both NVIDIA’s G-Sync and AMD’s FreeSync, which keep the display from refreshing too quickly or slowly, help guarantee a smooth experience. This display supports HDR10, which isn’t the most sophisticated high dynamic range technology but will still provide much truer-to-life colors than displays without it.

The Odyssey G40B has multiple inputs, encouraging you to connect multiple consoles and a gaming PC to it simultaneously. A feature called Auto Switch+ will detect which input is being used and move to that one automatically. If you put your PC to sleep and pick up an Xbox controller, you won’t have to push a button on the display to have it recognize you’ve changed to a different system. This is a nice-to-have feature that’ll prove invaluable if you want to get the most mileage from this gaming display.

This cheap gaming monitor will perform at its full potential when playing a first-person shooter, where every frame matters whether you’re playing online with friends or solo. Slower-paced games won’t take full advantage of the Odyssey G40B’s marquee feature but will still benefit from HDR, G-Sync, and FreeSync. As an all-arounder, you won’t find a better cheap gaming monitor than this.

Best curved: Gigabyte 27-inch Curved Gaming Monitor (G27QC A)

Why it made the cut: Curved displays are an acquired taste, but the Gigabyte G27QC A has many great qualities for the best curved gaming monitor on a budget.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 250 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 2 x USB 3.0
  • Ergonomics: Tilt & height, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Freesync, G-Sync Compatible
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Great contrast, thanks to the VA panel
  • Strong refresh rate and response time
  • Lots of ports

Cons

  • Limited ergonomics
  • Not very bright

Gigabyte’s gaming monitors are popping up on more and more monitor buying lists, and for good reason. The G27QC A features a 1500R curvature on a VA panel that handles reflection better than many other curved displays. Meanwhile, it offers a robust feature set with a fast refresh rate, variable refresh rate options, and a couple of USB ports. It’s a strong package for any curved display fan.

Best ultrawide: AOC CU34G3S Frameless Curved Ultrawide Gaming Monitor

AOC CU34G2X Curved Frameless Immersive Gaming Monitor

AOC

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Why it made the cut: Ultrawide monitors usually aren’t cheap, but this AOC display will give you a chance to experience the magic for a reasonable price.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution: 3440 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 300 nits
  • Ports: 2 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 4 x USB 3.2
  • Ergonomics: Up and down, VESA 75mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Adaptive-Sync
  • HDR: No

Pros

  • Inexpensive compared to most ultrawide displays
  • Fast response time
  • Fast refresh rate

Cons

  • No HDR

Ultrawide monitors offer lots of extra screen space, but that typically comes at a much higher cost. This curved AOC model, however, checks in well under $400 and offers some very solid specs for gamers. You won’t get the top-tier stuff like HDR or HDMI 2.1. But it does provide a solid 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and a more-than-respectable 165Hz refresh rate. It supports AMD’s FreeSync Premium for variable refresh rates. And its response rate is just 1ms, which is quicker than most budget gaming monitors in its class. There’s even a pair of 5W speakers built in, which will offer some sound to accompany your games if you don’t have powered speakers set up yet.

If you want to do some creative work between gaming sessions, this display supports more than 100 percent of the sRGB color space and 98 percent of the Adobe RGB color space. It also features four USB 3.2 ports, which can be used to connect accessories to your computer. The mounting system isn’t the most flexible we’ve ever seen, but it does allow the monitor to move up and down to match your eye line. In short, this is a ton of monitor for a very impressive price.

Best high-refresh: Asus TUF VG259 24.5-inch Gaming Monitor (VG259QM)

Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF Gaming VG259QM maxes out on frame rate with fewer compromises than most similarly-priced monitors.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz, Overclock to 280Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, Height, Swivel, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync Compatible/Freesync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • 280Hz refresh with overclock options
  • Adaptive sync compatibility
  • Full suite of ergonomic adjustments

Cons

  • 24.5-inch display is pretty small these days

As the best cheap high-refresh gaming monitor, the Asus TUF Gaming VG259QM is the smallest monitor on this list, but it has something the others don’t. With a lightning-fast 280Hz, it is a perfect panel for players looking to maximize their competitive edge in games like League of Legends and DOTA 2. It also supports HDR, though it is only DisplayHDR 400 certified, which isn’t great. Still, this is a monitor for players who are willing to give up some visual fidelity and screen real estate for an extra microsecond against an opponent, so HDR is really just icing on the cake.

Best 4K under $400: LG UltraFine

Why it made the cut: Doing 4K right is costly, but the LG UltraFine gets you pretty close for less than $400.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x USB Type-C; 1 X DisplayPort 1.4; 2 X HDMI 2.0 1 x USB Type-A
  • Ergonomics: Height; VESA 100 mountable
  • Variable Refresh Rate: AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • Great color coverage
  • USB-C port

Cons

  • 60Hz refresh rate

As with ultrawide gaming monitors, your options for the best 4K gaming monitors are extremely limited if you’re trying to keep your budget down. The 27-inch LG UltraFine is one of the few 4K monitors available at this price point, though you’ll have to make a couple of concessions on the gaming front. The biggest is that this monitor has a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz, less than half the top speed of our top pick. Similarly, its 5ms response time is slow if you want to play fast-paced first-person shooters, though it won’t matter as much when playing slower-paced games.

On the upside, this monitor does support AMD’s FreeSync, HDR (High Dynamic Range), and 99% of the sRGB color space. Many modern games support HDR, and their visuals will pop on this display. The UltraFine is also forward-thinking on the input front; it’s equipped with a USB-C port to transfer data and charge a laptop simultaneously. Don’t worry; there’s a DisplayPort and multiple HDMI ports, too. While its speakers won’t be able to stand up to a trusty pair of computer speakers, it’s still nice to see them built into the display, just in case.

Getting a cheap 4K gaming monitor necessitates making some compromises, but none of them are deal breakers, especially if you choose to use this display for your professional life.

Best for PS5/Xbox: Gigabyte M27Q Pro

GIGABYTE M27Q PRO-27

GIGABYTE

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Why it made the cut: Getting the most out of a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X requires a powerful monitor, but this works well and is very affordable.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 2550 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 1 x USB Type-C; 2 x USB Type A; 1 x USB Type B
  • Ergonomics: Height, Tilt
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • Multiple HDMI ports
  • USB-C
  • Adjustable height and tilt

Cons

  • No HDMI 2.1

Traditionally, TVs are for consoles, and gaming monitors are for PCs, but nothing stops us from plugging your PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch into a gaming monitor. That said, the new consoles make some pretty serious demands in terms of display technology: Ideally, you want a 4K, 120Hz display with HDR10 and an HDMI 2.1 port. Generally speaking, that’s going to cost you more than $400.

Within our chosen price point, our main requirements were having two HDMI ports, some level of HDR, and a high refresh rate. The Gigabyte M27Q Pro doesn’t have everything we want in a console display, but it gets the job done without spending extra for features you won’t use if you’re focused on console gaming, making it the best cheap gaming monitor for the PS5/Xbox.

What to consider before buying the best cheap gaming monitors

Picking out a gaming monitor can be genuinely confusing. There are thousands of monitors on the market, with hundreds of so-called gaming monitors among them. Manufacturers often use confusing metrics to make their gear sound impressive or proprietary technologies that may or may not actually impact your day-to-day experience. Here’s a rundown of some specs and features that we consider important, especially when you’re buying a cheap gaming monitor.

Resolution and size

It turns out that picking the two most basic aspects of your monitor, its screen size and resolution, are inherently linked. Rather than treating them as two aspects to pick and choose from, you should consider them together.

When discussing size, we’re talking about the monitor’s physical dimensions—the height and width of the screen itself, measured in inches. Resolution refers to how many pixels that display shows. This is measured by the vertical and horizontal numbers of pixels, such as 1920 x 1080. As with TVs, monitor resolutions are usually referenced by their height, such as 1080p (1920 x 1080) and 1440p (2560 x 1440). The paradigm switches to the resolution width shortened for larger sizes like 4K (3840 x 2160) and 8K (7680 x 4320).

If you buy a very large monitor but have a lower resolution—such as a 43-inch display with 1080p resolution, for an extreme example—you’ll end up with a blurry image when sitting at your desk. This works for televisions but not for monitors. However, if you buy a 27-inch monitor with a 4K resolution display, that screen is so small for that resolution that you’ll miss out on the additional detail and make your graphics card do extra work that you don’t benefit from.

Here’s an easy rule of thumb for picking your display resolution based on monitor size:

  • Anything less than 27 inches—1080p is fine.
  • Anything around 27-30 inches—1440p is the sweet spot.
  • Anything 31 inches or more—You should be looking at 4K if possible.

That said, size is not the only factor in play when choosing a max screen resolution. Ultimately, your PC—specifically your GPU—will determine what resolution and settings you can use for each game. If you’re rocking an Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti graphics card, you won’t be playing games in 4K, even if you have a 4K monitor. Since a large display will look blurry at a lower resolution, this means your GPU also caps the size of the monitor you should buy.

The bottom line:  Don’t spend extra money on monitors with specs you can’t use (unless you’re also planning to upgrade your gaming PC in the near future). Make sure to look at which model of graphics card you have and what kind of games you like to play to see if they’re a good match for the screen resolution you want.

Refresh rate

For many players, a gaming monitor’s refresh rate is just as important as its resolution. Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw and redraw what’s happening on your computer screen each second. Your monitor’s refresh rate, along with your gaming PC or console’s specs, determine the maximum possible frame rate at which your games will be able to run.

Depending on what kinds of games you play and your gaming PC or console’s specs, many games seek to run at 30, 60, or 120 frames per second. Many PC games also allow for an unlocked frame rate, incentivizing you to get a monitor with the highest possible refresh rate. Unlike size and resolution, there is no disincentive for purchasing a monitor with an aspirational refresh rate (other than spending more money than you need to).

Even if you’re shopping for a cheap gaming monitor, most players should look for a display with a 144Hz refresh rate, the most common option just above 120Hz. This will allow you to play most games at high frame rates, even in competitive games, where a split-second can be the difference between winning and losing. Going past around 165Hz, you’ll begin to see diminishing returns (and somewhat degraded image quality). These ultra-high refresh displays usually get their fast refresh by pushing displays into an “overdrive” mode that asks more of the pixels than intended by the panel maker. If you’re planning to use the screen just for work, 60Hz is just fine.

Variable refresh rate

Historically, monitors (and televisions) have operated at specific frequencies—the number of times per second that the image will refresh. The monitors you use at work or that came with your first computer probably run at the standard 60Hz frequency, refreshing 60 times per second.

This is great for movies and television, which have preset frame rates, but terrible for games. Game developers work to keep frame rates consistent, but they don’t always stay that way. When a game’s frame rate fluctuates, that causes your graphics card to try to pass video frames to your monitor at uneven rates. This can result in screen tearing or dropped frames. Variable Refresh Rate technology, in short, gets your monitor and graphics card in sync. Instead of the graphics card having to wait for the monitor to be ready for an image, the two talk to each other, and the monitor can refresh when an image is passed to it, making for a smoother image when gaming.

There are two proprietary variable refresh rate technologies used in most gaming monitors tied to the two major graphics card manufacturers: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. G-Sync is a hardware-enabled system that theoretically rewards players who pair an Nvidia GPU in your PC and a “G-Sync certified” monitor with special hardware. FreeSync, a purely software-based option, is more common, but less regulated. That said, many monitors support both FreeSync and G-Sync, even if they aren’t specifically certified.

Ultimately, a certified G-Sync monitor is a nice cherry on top for a monitor if your PC sports an Nvidia GPU, but isn’t necessary, especially in this price range. In most cases, it’s enough to look and simply note what GPU you have and buy a monitor that supports your system.

Response time

A less scrutinized spec, response time refers to how quickly the pixels in a display can change, which also affects how quickly and smoothly your games animate. Response time is trickier to track than refresh rate, as manufacturers do not adhere to a single standard for measuring it. Some measure black-to-white, some black-to-white-to-black, and yet others measure from one shade of gray to another.

Many manufacturers approximate monitor response times—they’ll say “1ms.” Due to the ways different makers judge this statistic, though, it’s always good to search for the model of monitor you’re interested in, along with the word “ghosting,” to see if other users are struggling with issues caused by poor response time, including after images and image smearing.

Panel type

There are three types of display panels: Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), and In-Plane Switching (IPS). Each display has its strengths and weaknesses. A TN display will typically have the fastest refresh, but weaker color reproduction and viewing angles. IPS displays have the best color reproduction, but comparatively poor contrast. VA displays have the best black levels of the three types of display panels and match the wider viewing angles of IPS displays. They have slightly slower response time and color gamut compared to IPS, though still much better color than a TN panel.

While TN displays are technically the fastest, most players prefer IPS and VA panels, which can handle fast refresh rates and response times well enough, while offering a better overall picture. All of our picks feature IPS or VA panels.

Brightness, color depth, and HDR

High-dynamic range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows for more nuanced levels of brightness and color depth in a display picture. In video games, it is most frequently used to enhance visuals through better lighting, and allowing a wider range of dark spaces. (For example, HDR makes it possible to replicate that fuzzy feeling of seeing in the dark in a cave or poorly lit room).

With TVs, where the technology is more common, there are two HDR standards: HDR10 and DolbyVision. With monitors, HDR is less common and more segmented. Some monitors support HDR10. Others support various DisplayHDR levels, which refer directly to the monitor’s maximum brightness, measured in nits or cd/m². Many of our top picks technically support HDR, but don’t get bright enough to really show off the feature.

In general, we recommend players looking to prioritize HDR monitors to look for an HDR10-compatible monitor with a maximum brightness of 1000 nits or higher, or one with an official DisplayHDR 1000 rating. 

FAQs

Q: Is G-Sync or FreeSync better?

If you have an Nvidia graphics card, hardware-based G-Sync typically offers the smoothest, most stable variable refresh rate. The choice gets much trickier when you’re picking between AMD FreeSync and software-based G-Sync, which you’ll find with most of the picks on this list. Both services can have some quirks and vary from monitor to monitor. Ultimately, both versions work well on any officially compatible display.

Q: Is flat or curved better?

If you’re the only person who uses your PC and you plan to rock a single-monitor setup, a curved display can create a more immersive gaming experience. It can also catch light from more angles, though. A curved monitor is somewhat of an acquired taste. It isn’t for everyone, but the people who try it and like it tend to prefer it over a standard flat panel.

Q: Are cheap 144Hz monitors worth it?

Absolutely. A 144Hz display can show up to 144 individual images per second. Despite what some people will argue on forums, the human eye can discern the difference between 30, 60, and 144 frames per second. If you play games frequently and have a moderately powerful graphics card, a 144 Hz display will allow for smoother animation and better-looking games.

Q: Is 4K resolution worth it?

Making the jump to 4K on a gaming PC can be tricky … and expensive. You need a graphics card—such as an Nvidia RTX 2080, 3070, or higher—to run games at 4K resolution. You should also be prepared to spend a good amount of money on a 4K monitor no smaller than 32 inches. If you have an otherwise mid-range system, or would prefer a smaller screen, you probably should hold off on upgrading to 4K.

Q: What about OLED panels?

Organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, displays make for gorgeous screens thanks to the technology’s ability to light individual pixels. OLED panels are more commonly used for TVs and smartphones than PC monitors, though. In addition to being expensive, they are susceptible to long-term screen burn-in, which would severely limit their lifespan.

Q: How many inches is good for a gaming monitor?

In general, larger-sized gaming monitors will provide a more immersive experience than smaller ones, but we understand space constraints are a part of life. This is why our recommendations are in the 24 to 27-inch range, which should suit the greatest number of desk spaces. If you want to optimize your space to accommodate a larger display, consider swapping out its stand for a monitor arm.

Q: Is 140Hz to 244Hz a huge difference?

This depends on the games that you play. If you play titles that can run at upwards of 240 frames per second, you will notice a difference between a 140Hz and 244Hz display. Gameplay will look smoother, which is more pleasing to the eye. If you play games that run at 120 frames per second or less, you’re not going to notice a difference between a display running at 140Hz and 244Hz

Q: How much do cheap gaming monitors cost?

Our price cap for this story was $400, but you shouldn’t need to spend more than $250 to get an excellent cheap gaming monitor.

Final thoughts on the best cheap gaming monitors

Finding a very good monitor for less than $400 isn’t as hard as you might think. There are tons of options, so sorting through them to find the best can be tough, but there are also lots of great choices. That said, there are also some very tight limitations on what you can and cannot get on the cheap. You’ll have to make some serious compromises to get a 4K or ultrawide monitor. Likewise, the new consoles will probably fare better on a 4K television. But if you’re interested in a 1440p monitor with a high refresh rate—often considered the current sweet spot for modern graphics cards—the world is your oyster.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cheap gaming monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best PS5 accessories of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ps5-accessories/ Mon, 22 Nov 2021 22:59:39 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=394116
Best ps5 accessories
Natasha Roy

Outfit your PlayStation 5 with some of the best accessories available, from headsets to charging stations. 

The post The best PS5 accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best ps5 accessories
Natasha Roy

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best PS5 Controller PlayStation 5 controller is our pick for best PS5 accessories. PlayStation DualSense
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Sony took the fan-favorite DualShock 4 and made it even better, adding improved haptic feedback and a slick new look.
Best PS5 Headset SteelSeries Arctis 7P is our pick for the best PS5 accessories. SteelSeries 7P
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An all-purpose headset that ticks all the boxes PS5 players could need with style, reliability, and most importantly, fantastic sound.

Best PS5 Remote This PS5 remote is our pick for the best PS5 accessories. PlayStation Media Remote
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Sony’s PS5 media remote is a simple, sleek, and has everything you need to turn your PS5 into a binge-watching hub.

If you’re one of the lucky few who have snagged a PlayStation 5 despite the seemingly perpetual shortage, you’ll want to make the most out of your time with it. High-quality PS5 accessories can take your gaming to the next level—whether it means chatting with friends while playing, improving your storage space with a hard drive, or adding a controller for multiplayer fun with friends or family. The best PS5 accessories will help make your new system an even better place to play, and can be tailored to your unique interests and gaming preferences.

How we selected the best PS5 accessories

Since we’re still in the first year of the PS5’s life cycle, there isn’t a wide variety of options for many of the core PS5 accessories we normally look for when buying a new console. That said, there is still enough strong line of first-party accessories to choose from, with Sony taking the lead when it comes to the latest PS5 tech. There are a couple of exceptions, which we picked through testing, research, and conferring with expert reviewers. Snag them online to level up your gaming setup in no time.

The best PS5 accessories: Here’s what we recommend 

Best PS5 controller: PlayStation 5 DualSense Controller

Playstation Dualsense Controller on a wood surface

Mike Epstein

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Why it made the cut: Sony took the fan-favorite DualShock 4 and made it even better, adding improved haptic feedback and a slick new look. It’s the best PlayStation controller yet. 

Specs:

  • Estimated battery life: 12 hours
  • Notable features: Adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, dual analog sticks
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
  • Sound: Built-in speaker and microphone 
  • Colors: White, Cosmic Red, Midnight Black 
  • Striking design
  • Comfortable matte design
  • Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers

Cons

  • Can be difficult to find
  • Slightly short battery life

The PlayStation 5’s new controller, the DualSense, is a huge improvement over the PS4’s DualShock 4 controller. Not only is it more comfortable to hold, but it enhances games with new features like haptic feedback that can provide precise tactile feedback that match your character’s in-game actions. Similarly, its new responsive triggers produce similar effects, like simulating the tension that builds when you draw back on a bow. Throw in solid battery life with USB-C charging and a comfortable matte grip, and you have one of the best gamepads out there.

Best PS5 wireless headset: SteelSeries Arctis 7P

SteelSeries Arctis 7P is our pick for the best PS5 accessories.

SteelSeries

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Why it made the cut: An all-purpose headset that ticks all the boxes PS5 players could need with style, reliability, and most importantly, fantastic sound. 

Specs:

  • Estimated Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
  • Weight: 14.88 ounces
  • Dimensions: 20.7 x 21 x 5.3 cm

Pros

  • Great audio
  • Noise-canceling mic
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • No Bluetooth

A great gaming PS5 headset is an absolute necessity for gaming on PS5, especially if you’re into online multiplayer. The SteelSeries Arctis 7P is an absolutely excellent option if you need a well-rounded set of PS5 headphones for in-game audio and a clear mic for chat. Designed specifically for PlayStation, the Arctis 7P connects to the console wirelessly via a low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless dongle so you can enjoy bullets whizzing past your head and shout commands to your team all the way across the room. It’s adjustable, comfortable, and includes an estimated 24-hour battery life so you can get in on those marathon gaming sessions. 

Best PS5 charging station: PlayStation DualSense Charging Station 

The DualSense Charging Station is our pick for best PS5 accessories.

PlayStation

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Why it made the cut: Sony’s wireless charging dock makes it easy to charge two DualSense controllers without plugging them in.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 7.64 x 4.8 x 2.72 inches
  • Weight: 1.11 lbs
  • Connectivity: USB-C
  • Number of controllers charged: 2
  • Charge time: About 5 hours

Pros

  • Quick charge time for 2 controllers
  • Matches PS5 aesthetic

Cons

  • Can’t charge while you play

The DualSense Controller offers around 12 hours of battery life, but everybody needs to charge some time. The DualSense Charging Station makes that process a little easier and more aesthetically pleasing by letting you charge using a small dock, rather than plugging your controllers in. It’s especially useful for families, couples, or anyone who shares a PS5 and finds themselves in need of an additional controller more often than not. Whether you have two players or alternate controllers to ensure you never need to stop for a charging break, it makes for a great place to store DualSense controllers, as this PS5 accessory is a bit too pricey to just leave lying around. 

Best PS5 camera: PlayStation 5 HD Camera

This PS5 camera is our pick for the best PS5 accessories.

PlayStation

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Why it made the cut: Sony’s entry-level camera ticks all the boxes and more that you’d expect from a proprietary peripheral, making it an easy and affordable choice. 

Specs:

  • Lenses: Two
  • Microphone: Yes
  • Weight: 0.3 lbs 
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Dimensions: 4.72 in x 7.44 in x 2.68 in

Pros

  • High quality video
  • Affordable
  • Great option for casual streaming

Cons

  • Not compatible with PSVR

Streaming gameplay is an exciting pastime, especially when it involves incredible-looking games and new hardware like the PS5. If you’re streaming directly from your console, a PlayStation HD Camera can enhance your broadcast on Twitch or YouTube. Like the rest of Sony’s line of PS5 accessories and products, it matches the console, and comes with a special built-in stand. Most importantly, its dual wide-angle lenses offer 1080p capture, which means higher-quality streaming and a spacious view of your gaming space. It also features some ability to fine-tune your camera footage and stream, including background removal tools to help stream the best image possible. It’s a neat piece of equipment for budding casual streamers looking to test the waters on Twitch or get their feet wet with their very first cam setup. 

Best PS5 remote: PlayStation Media Remote

This PS5 remote is our pick for the best PS5 accessories.

PlayStation

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Why it made the cut: It’s a simple yet sleek media remote with dedicated streaming buttons and everything you need to turn your PS5 into a binge-watching hub.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 7.75 x 3.5 x 1.75 in
  • Weight: 6.2 ounces 
  • Batteries: 2 AA 

Pros

  • Crisp design
  • Dedicated streaming buttons
  • Small and light

Cons

  • No customizable buttons

Not all of the best PS5 accessories are about gaming. More than just a gaming console, the PS5 can also act as a digital hub for your home entertainment. The PS5 Media Remote brings the console’s streaming and TV capabilities to the forefront, making it easier to access movies, TV shows, and music using the kind of remote everyone’s accustomed to. It includes built-in directional navigation buttons as well as the usual media controls—play, pause, fast forward, and reverse. It also features dedicated buttons for some of the console’s most popular streaming apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+.

Best hard drive: WD Black SN850

The WD hard drive is our pick for the best PS5 accessories.

WD_BLACK

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Why it made the cut: Approved by PlayStation’s Mark Cerny himself, this high-speed SSD is every bit worth the extra effort to install in your PS5. 

Specs:

  • Capacity: Up to 2 TB
  • Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4
  • Connector: M.2
  • Dimensions: 3.1 in x 0.87 in x 0.09 in

Pros

  • Fast read/write speeds
  • Plenty of storage space
  • Meets PS5 compatibility specs

Cons

  • Requires technical knowledge to install

Video game file sizes are getting bigger all the time. With less than 1TB of storage in the PS5 hard drive, you will very quickly find yourself running out of space for new games. As of August 2021, you need to install a beta version of the PS5 firmware to install a secondary internal hard drive, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the upgrade.

Critics and testers, including PopSci, are working to find the best SSDs for PS5, but the WD Black SN850 is an early frontrunner.  It offers read/write times up to 7000MB/s, well above Sony’s requirements, for improved load times and quicker downloads. It takes a bit of technical know-how to pick a PS5-compatible SSD and a little nerve to install it, but it’s the only way to truly expand your PS5’s storage. (As of now, external hard drives can only run PS4 games). If you want to learn more about PS5 storage, we’ve got all the details you need right here.

What to consider when buying the best PS5 accessories

When selecting accessories for your PS5 setup, you’ll want to think about the types of games you want to play, whether you’re concerned with talk, and even how much space you have to install games. All of these are important factors when you’re looking to build out a “home base” for your new console. 

Be aware of your gaming routine

It helps to be self-aware when planning your gaming sessions. Do you tend to walk away from a game without plugging your controller in to charge? Do you have a good place to put your headset when you’re done? Planning out that pre- and postgame routine can help you keep your gear charged up and your gaming space looking tidy. When everything’s ready and waiting, you get to spend more time playing games.

Let’s have a chat

If you play a lot of team-based multiplayer games where you need to communicate, a great PS5 headset is crucial. Technically you can get by with the microphone built into the DualSense, but a sturdy, comfortable headset will improve the audio experience for you and your teammates.

You can never have enough storage 

Lastly, you’ll want to think about storage. You’ll run out of hard drive space before you know it. You can already delete and reinstall games as you need to, but that takes times and internet bandwidth. If you’d like to avoid that hassle, it is possible to install an SSD in the PS5, or use an external hard drive for your backward-compatible PS4 games.

FAQs

Q: Are third-party PS5 accessories worth buying?

Absolutely. While Sony released some incredible first-party products alongside the PS5, there are a wide range of third-party accessories that are definitely worth picking up. Major headset retailers such as Razer or SteelSeries offer PS5-compatible products that offer even higher-quality sound than what Sony’s headset can, though there is a tradeoff in that you might lose the 3D Audio capabilities. Similarly, there are great options for charging stations, hard drives, and other products available for PS5. 

Q: What PS5 accessories are necessary?

Technically, none. You’ll need a DualSense controller to play PS5 games, but the console comes with one in the box. That said, many players do find themselves in need of some peripheral or another as they spend more time with any game console. At the bare minimum, it’s always good to have a second controller for when you decide to play local multiplayer games or when your first one tuckers out. Plus, you don’t want to miss out the PS5’s spatial audio tech for gaming headsets. Ultimately, though, the best PS5 accessories are ones that let you do more.

Q: Are PS5 accessories in stores?

Yes, though I understand why you’d ask! Like the PS5 console, first-party PS5 accessories can be difficult to find. The situation isn’t quite as dire as with the console itself, though. If you can’t find any of these accessories from online retailers, a trip to the store may help you find what you need.

Our final thoughts on picking the best PS5 accessories

The best PS5 accessories will actively improve your experience with Sony’s newest console. You may not be able to find all of them in stock or at a store at once due to the system’s popularity and global supply chain issues, but these are the ones we think you should snap up when you go shopping. Sit back, relax, pick your DualSense Controller up off of that charging station. It’s game time.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best PS5 accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best external hard drives for Xbox One, Series S, and Series X in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-external-hard-drives-for-xbox-one/ Tue, 16 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=462445
Best External Hard Drives for Xbox One
Mike Epstein

Take your games on the go with these compact drives that let you get you most out of Xbox without being boxed in.

The post The best external hard drives for Xbox One, Series S, and Series X in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best External Hard Drives for Xbox One
Mike Epstein

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Best overall Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition is the best overall. Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition
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Seagate’s Xbox-certified Game Drive sits right in the Goldilocks Zone for size, price, and style.
Best high-capacity Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive is the best high-capacity external hard drives for Xbox One. Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive
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Push the Xbox One’s storage limitations with this even larger Western Digital Elements external drive.
Best budget Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB is the best budget external hard drives for Xbox One. Toshiba Canvio
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Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB is the best budget external hard drives for Xbox One.

If you’re playing games on an Xbox, it’s very easy to download enough games to fill up your console, whether you have an Xbox One S with a 500GB hard drive or an Xbox One X with a 1TB drive. Suppose you’re tired of deleting games every time you want to download something new. In that case, it’s time to pick up an external hard drive that gives you more space for games and even lets you take them with you if you upgrade to an Xbox Series X or Series S. The best external hard drives for Xbox One and beyond will let you download every game you’ve purchased, with plenty of room to spare for whatever comes next.

How we chose the best external hard drives for Xbox One and more

I’ve covered game consoles and computers for sites like TechnoBuffalo, The Tech Report, and GameSpot. Having watched games go from taking up kilobytes to megabytes to gigabytes, I’ve worked with both desktop and server computers for years and have a pretty good idea of what makes for a reliable hard drive brand. To make these selections, I stuck to those reliable brands and looked for the highest capacity, smallest, fastest, and best-value drives out there, keeping in mind user impressions on retail sites and aggregated technical reviews from tech blogs.

The best external hard drives for Xbox: Reviews & Recommendations

Next to a new screen and an extra controller to get more people into the game, a place to make sure you can store even more games might be your most important Xbox accessory. These drives run the gamut from the cheapest, lowest-capacity storage to the fastest and most lightweight portable options. The best picks, we think, balance storage capacity and price, but we considered some very large drives as well. They’re all going to be equally easy to set up and can handle a small game library equally well—the details are around the edges.

Best overall: Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition is the best overall.

Seagate

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass is portable and offers a lot of storage for a decent price.

Specs

  • Capacity: 4TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Reasonably priced
  • Interesting look
  • A good fit for Xbox 360 and Xbox One games

Cons

  • HDD isn’t a great pick for Xbox Series consoles

While you can plug just about any external hard drive into an Xbox One, the Seagate console-specific “Game Drive” looks sharp, stores a lot of games, and is small enough to carry around if you need to. This model’s 4TB of storage can hold 90-100 Xbox One games, which is plenty of space for most game libraries. A compact package at just 21mm thick, you can get a green Xbox-branded version, a white Game Pass model (which comes with a free one-month Game Pass Ultimate subscription), or even black to match a PS4/PS5. Every drive here is worth the money, but Seagate’s offering is a perfect fit for the Xbox One.

Best value: Western Digital 12TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

Western Digital 12TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive is the best for the value.

Western Digital

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The 12TB Western Digital Elements external hard drive comes close to the Xbox One’s external storage limit but doesn’t cost all that much.

Specs

  • Capacity: 12TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Tons of storage
  • Best value per dollar (as of August 2022)

Cons

  • Requires a separate power adapter (included)

The Western Digital 12TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive isn’t the cheapest drive on our list, but it offers the best value when you look at the capacity and the price. We dug around, looking at drives from a variety of reputable drive makers and capacities, and this drive edges out the others in byte-per-dollar value—just barely, though. The price may fluctuate over time, but this is the best value you can get right now.

Best high-capacity: Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive is the best high-capacity external hard drives for Xbox One.

Western Digital

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: Push the Xbox One’s storage limitations with this even larger Western Digital Elements external drive.

Specs

  • Capacity: 14TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Tons of storage
  • Great byte-per-dollar value

Cons

  • Requires separate power adapter

This larger version of the previous pick gives you a slightly lower byte-per-dollar value, but it gives you an extra couple of terabytes and comes very close to maxing out your Xbox One’s storage capacity. It’s more space than most players reasonably need for their game library, holding roughly 350 average-sized games. With Microsoft’s focus on backward compatibility, though, you could keep buying Xbox One and 360 games for years without worrying about how much space you have left.

Best portable: SanDisk 1TB Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Flash Drive

SanDisk 1TB Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Flash Drive is the best portable external hard drives for Xbox One.

SanDisk

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Why it made the cut: The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Flash Drive makes it easy to carry a lot of Xbox games in your pocket.

Specs

  • Capacity: 1TB
  • Drive type: Flash
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Tiny
  • Faster than an HDD

Cons

  • Not much storage

Going from 14TB above down to just 1TB may seem like a big step down, but keep in mind that we’re talking about a flash drive now. The 1TB SanDisk Extreme Pro will fit on your keychain if you want to carry it around. It may not be an entire library, but 1TB still doubles or triples your console’s internal storage capacity, depending on what Xbox One you have. It is far and away the easiest option if you want to unplug and store your external when you aren’t using it.

Best internal: WD_Black C 1TB Storage Expansion Card

WD_Black C50

WD_Black

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Why it made the cut: WD_Black C’s 1TB expansion card is the best option for Xbox Series S and Series X owners.

Specs

  • Capacity: 1TB
  • Drive type: M.2 SSD
  • USB type: N/A

Pros

  • Purpose-built
  • Compact
  • Won’t disconnect

Cons

  • Price

WD_Black’s C Storage Expansion Card is the only one of our drive recommendations that was purpose-built to work with the Xbox Series S and Series X. It connects to the console through its expansion card slot rather than a USB cable, which comes with a couple of major advantages. The first is that it’s discrete, sticking out roughly an inch outside the console when connected. We were able to test this drive for ourselves and can confirm it was easy to install and configure—the Xbox Series X we used immediately recognized the drive, and we were able to install or move games to it within a few minutes.

The C Storage Expansion Card also got top marks when it came to both raw performance and consistency. It never disconnected, and we noticed no dip in performance when playing games installed in the card rather than the console’s built-in storage. Drives connected via USB are a little more finicky because there’s always a little bit of tension on the cable connecting them to your Xbox. This shouldn’t matter when the drive and console are stationary, but the cable may become loose if you move the Xbox around—even subtly, like when inserting and ejecting a disc.

It may be more expensive than drives with similar—or higher—capacities, but WD_Black’s C Storage Expansion Card more than makes up for it based on how well it works.

Best high-speed: SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD

SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is the best high-speed.

SanDisk

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: As a portable M.2 SSD, the SanDisk Extreme Portable series is infinitely faster than our other picks.

Specs

  • Capacity: 1TB
  • Drive type: M.2 SSD
  • USB type: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2

Pros

  • Incredibly fast
  • Very small
  • Rugged Construction

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Limited capacity

If you’re buying a portable external with hard drive speed in mind, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD offers far faster delivery than our other picks. According to SanDisk, it supports up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds, which blows our other picks out of the water when plugged into a device that could take advantage of those speeds.

Of course, that’s the main limiting factor: Your Xbox One and even the Series X won’t be able to make full use of the drive’s speed. Older games are often limited by compression and built-in features meant to make the game work on a standard Xbox One hard drive. With that said, these games will load as quickly as your console can handle, making it a great way to future-proof your drive for your next Xbox upgrade.

Aside from being fast, it’s also small, light, and built for abuse. The drive has 2-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance. You shouldn’t take it swimming, but you don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain with it in your pocket.

Best budget: Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB

Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB is the best budget external hard drives for Xbox One.

Toshiba

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Toshiba Canvio Basics doubles or triples your Xbox One’s storage and costs less than a new AAA game.

Specs

  • Capacity: 1TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Simple design

Cons

  • Limited Capacity

The Toshiba Canvio Basics isn’t the fastest or biggest external hard drive on this list by any stretch, but it’s definitely the cheapest. If you want to double or triple your storage quickly, and you aren’t worried about keeping a massive library of games at the ready, this drive will get the job done. It’s simple, small, and straightforward.

What to consider before buying an external drive for Xbox One

After almost nine years, the Xbox One has been around the block a few times. Technically speaking, it is a last-generation console, though the ebb and flow of Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X available has led developers to continue optimizing Xbox games for it.

Unlike the new consoles, which have internal solid-state drives—SSDs, for short—a hard drive is a hard drive to the Xbox One. As long as it hits the minimum requirements, which we’ll go into a moment, your Xbox One doesn’t care how fast or large your drive is (or even if it’s marketed toward, gasp, a PlayStation 5) as long as it’s formatted correctly. That would change when and if you upgrade to an Xbox Series X or S. For the time being, though, you are mostly free to get a very large hard drive without worrying too much about its specs.

Minimum requirements

There are really only two major Xbox One drive considerations: size and speed. According to Microsoft, you can connect between 128GB and 16TB of external storage to your Xbox One. With that much storage, you can download every game you’ve ever played with plenty of room to spare. There’s also a connection requirement—you must connect it via USB-A 3.0 (the Xbox One predates Type-C connectors)—which sets a hard 5.0Gb/s transfer limit.

One more thing: You cannot use an external hard drive to store Xbox One games and other files from other devices at the same time. When you plug a drive into your Xbox One, the Xbox will ask you to format it before you can store games, erasing any data you might have stored there. Once formatted, you cannot use the external drive for anything else until you reformat it again, which will delete all the games.

So long as your hard drive meets those requirements, which aren’t very high by modern external hard drive standards, you can use any external hard drive with your Xbox One.

Xbox One is old: Don’t overspend …

Given that there’s a hard cap on how fast your Xbox One can handle data coming off an external hard drive, you should also put a cap on buying the fastest possible hard drive to go with it. You won’t see substantial boosts to load times if you connect an external SSD to the console since its core boot drive is a conventional rotating hard disk or HDD.

This is great news! There’s no downside to buying a huge 16TB hard drive that’s shockingly affordable, given its size, because it’s actually very slow.

… unless you’re planning to upgrade to a Series S or Series X

Of course, the equation changes if you’re planning to buy one of the 4th-generation Xbox “Series” consoles. While you can’t play Xbox Series X/S games stored on an external drive, you can use one to store and play older Xbox games. Virtually all Xbox One games, as well as many Xbox 360 and Xbox games, are playable on Xbox Series X and S. All you have to do to move your digital Xbox games over is unplug the drive from the Xbox One and plug it into the Xbox Series X or S, and you’re ready to go. It’s very helpful to have for the transition, and it saves you a lot of space on the new console’s core drive.

In this scenario, though, your external hard drive’s read and write speeds matter. An SSD is significantly faster than an HDD, and the Xbox Series X can unpack and load games faster. How much faster will vary from game to game, but most games should load faster and perform better on Microsoft’s latest consoles.

What games do you play?

It would be best if you also remember what kinds of games you plan to store and play. While many games are below the 30GB mark, a few recent games have passed the 100GB mark. Grand Theft Auto V can take up as much as 94GB; Red Dead Redemption 2 is 110GB; Call of Duty: Modern Warfare is upwards of 120GB, even on Xbox One. So, just those three games can consume almost 500GB. 

FAQs

Q: Does any external hard drive work with Xbox One?

In 2022, pretty much any external hard drive should work with an Xbox One. As long as it fits the requirements above—128GB or more of space and a USB 3.0 interface—the Xbox One will support it.

Q: Can you play Xbox games straight from the external hard drive?

Yes! Better yet, you can take the same drive from one Xbox One to another, or from an Xbox One to an Xbox Series X or S, and play those same games there, too.

As we mentioned before, though, you cannot play Xbox Series X/S games off an external hard drive. If you upgrade to one of either of the newest Xbox consoles, you may want to consider grabbing one of Seagate’s proprietary storage expansion cards.

Q: How many Xbox One games can 2TB hold?

The short answer is “2TB worth.” Game sizes vary wildly these days. Many indies will use up less than 1GB of storage on your hard drive, while a few major AAA games can take up 100GB or more. What you choose to play and how you manage your hard drive will determine how quickly it fills up.

All that said, we estimate that most major Xbox One games require 30GB to 50GB of storage space. If all your games fall in that range, you’ll be able to fit about 35 to 45 games on a 2TB drive.

Q: Can you use the same drive for Xbox One and PlayStation?

Not really. Both Xbox One and PlayStation 4 require you to reformat your external hard drive to store and play games. If you use an external hard drive for Xbox One or PS4 games, you can’t use it for anything else. 

One small exception: Both consoles can play media—movies, photos, or music—off a hard drive that isn’t formatted for games. That drive will work across both consoles.

Final thoughts on the best external hard drives for Xbox One

Just about any external hard drive will work as an Xbox One expansion drive, so there’s enough variety out there. Since speed isn’t a huge factor for the Xbox One specifically, you can focus on getting a large, cheap external that can hold all your games. Just keep in mind that you may find yourself looking for another hard drive to go with your next console, Xbox or otherwise.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best external hard drives for Xbox One, Series S, and Series X in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best PS5 headsets for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ps5-headsets/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=393287
A lineup of the best PS5 gaming headsets on a white background
Amanda Reed

A killer headset is crucial to getting the full PS5 experience.

The post The best PS5 headsets for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of the best PS5 gaming headsets on a white background
Amanda Reed

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Best wireless SteelSeries Arctis 7P is our pick for the best PS5 accessories. SteelSeries Arctis 7P
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A great overall headset that’s made specifically for PlayStation consoles.
Best wired Asus rog Delta S best ps5 headset Asus ROG Delta S
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The Asus ROG Delta S sounds incredible and comes with loads of stellar features.
Best for esports SteelSeries Arctis Prime ps5 headset SteelSeries Arctis Prime
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Everything about the Arctis Prime is simple and clean.

Killer audio is the unsung hero of the PlayStation 5, and a PS5 headset only enhances the experience. Sony’s latest console features a host of incredible upgrades—sharper visuals, improved framerates, an SSD that dramatically cuts down on load times, and a new DualSense controller with enhanced haptic feedback. One of my favorites, though, is the console’s Tempest audio technology, which imbues your headset with 3D spatial audio—virtual surround sound that can simulate sounds coming from above or below or all around you. Tempest started compatible only with headphones and headsets but now works to expand the soundstage of the stereo speakers in a flatscreen TV. However, you’ll want to play with headphones or a gaming headset to get the most out of your games, even single-player experiences. The fact is a headset is now only the best way to dig into the depths of a game’s soundtrack and directional cues, but it’s also the easiest way to chat with friends and other players, so finding the best PS5 headset for you is crucial to getting the most out of the experience.

How we chose the best PS5 headsets

As a longtime tech and gaming critic, I have a lot of experience using gaming headsets. I’ve reviewed dozens of them for sites like IGN, PC Gamer, and, of course, Popular Science. The majority of my recommendations are based on my own personal testing, playing all kinds of games on PlayStation 5 with the included DualSense controller. In a couple of cases, I deferred to the accounts of my colleagues past and present, while ensuring that the headsets offered high-quality specs and value.

The best PS5 headsets: Reviews & Recommendations

There is no single best PS5 headset for everyone, but I’ve winnowed down my experiences to a shortlist of candidates for most players, depending on a few key factors. All of them are very good, though, so you can’t go wrong with any of these picks.

Best overall: SteelSeries Arctis 7P

SteelSeries Arctis 7P is our pick for the best PS5 accessories.

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Why it made the cut: It is a great overall headset made specifically for PlayStation.

Specs

  • Drivers: 40mm
  • Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
  • Microphone: Retractable wire boom, bi-directional
  • Connection types: 2.4 GHz wireless via USB-C dongle, Analog (3.5mm)
  • Estimated battery life: 24 hours

Pros

  • Balanced sound
  • Comfortable
  • Great battery life

Cons

  • Bluetooth is on a more expensive model
  • microUSB charging port

SteelSeries Arctis’ line of headsets is incredibly well-rounded. They’re comfortable and deliver sharp sound and a solid connection. The PlayStation-specific Arctis 7P delivers the best bang for your buck if you’re looking specifically for a PS5 headset. (Technically, it also works on Nintendo Switch and Android phones with USB-C, too). If you also want to play on PC or Bluetooth support to pair with a phone, the more expensive Arctis 9 is also an excellent choice.

Best wired: Asus ROG Delta S

Asus rog Delta S best ps5 headset

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Why it made the cut: The Asus ROG Delta S sounds incredible and comes with loads of stellar features, including MQA audio codec support, customizable RGB lighting, and more. 

Specs

  • Drivers: 50mm
  • Frequency response: 20-40,000 Hz
  • Microphone: Detachable, Unidirectional with Noise-Cancellation
  • Connection types: USB-C, USB-A (with extension cable adapter)
  • Estimated battery life: N/A

Pros

  • Some of the most nuanced-sounding headsets I’ve tested
  • USB-C or USB-A with an adapter that doubles as an extension cable
  • Distinctive style, including RGB earcups

Cons

  • Some features are primarily for PC, like MQA streaming audio support
  • Expensive, especially for a wired headset

The Asus ROG Delta S is, if nothing, distinctive. A concentrated burst of flashy features, like an internal quad-DAC, triangular ear cups, RGB lighting, and support for Master Quality Authenticated (MQA), the high-fidelity legacy encoding format of streaming services like Tidal’s “master” quality audio. Normally, overloading a headset with showy bells and whistles is a red flag—a sign that maybe the headset underneath all the features isn’t so great. In this case, however, those features are all icing on the cake, so to speak. The Delta S delivers sharp audio across its range and a rare level of clarity among gaming headsets. It is a USB-wired headset, so you will need to have a cable running from the front of your PS5 to your head, but with a 5-foot cable and a 3.2-foot extension cable, it isn’t as restrictive as other wired models. Plus, you know … it sounds really good.

Best for esports: SteelSeries Arctis Prime

SteelSeries Arctis Prime ps5 headset

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Why it made the cut: Everything about the Arctis Prime is simple and clean. Simply put, it is the best analog-only headset I’ve ever used.

Specs

  • Drivers: 40mm
  • Frequency response: 10-40,000 Hz
  • Microphone: Retractable, Bi-directional with noise-cancellation
  • Connection types: Analog (3.5mm)
  • Estimated battery life: N/A

Pros

  • Suspended headband is very comfortable
  • 3.5mm connection means it works with every platform
  • “High fidelity” drivers sound better than most 3.5mm headsets

Cons

  • Limited customization
  • A bit expensive for limited feature-set

I’m continually surprised to find myself returning to the Arctis Prime over and over. As an esports headset, its simple design focuses on the basic functions of a headset: It needs to sound clear, and it needs to make you sound clear. It excels on both counts, thanks to “high-fidelity” drivers previously reserved for SteelSeries’ most expensive headset, the Arctis Pro, and a noise-canceling microphone.

Best for audiophiles: Audeze Penrose

audeze penrose ps5 headset

Audeze

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Why it made the cut: A luxurious-sounding headset from an audiophile headphone brand? What’s not to love?

Specs

  • Drivers: 100mm
  • Frequency response: 10-50,000 Hz
  • Microphone: Detachable, Wire boom
  • Connection types: 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, Analog (3.5mm)
  • Estimated battery life: 15 hours

Pros

  • Planar magnetic drivers
  • 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth wireless

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • OK battery life

Audeze, a brand best known for its impressive audiophile-grade headphones, also makes some of the best gaming headsets on the market. Though it isn’t quite as feature-rich as the Audeze Mobius headset for PC, the PlayStation-specific Penrose and Xbox-specific Penrose X bring the company’s superior sound to consoles (as does the newer Audeze Maxwell). The secret, so far as we can tell, is the headset’s planar-magnetic drivers, which can achieve a bassy, but nuanced sound that pairs especially well with games. At $300, the Penrose is very pricey for a gaming headset. Then again, Audeze’s professional flagship headphones run from the MM-500, which costs $1,699, to the Audeze CRBN, costing $4,500 … and other audiophile-grade gaming headphones, like the Master & Dynamic MG20, cost $449 … so everything is relative.

Best for single-player experiences: Sony PlayStation Pulse 3D

PlayStation PULSE 3D Wireless Headset sitting next to playstation controller

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Why it made the cut: Sony’s own headset is designed to take special advantage of the PS5’s spatial audio technology.

Specs

  • Drivers: 40mm
  • Frequency response: N/A
  • Microphone: Dual internal microphones with noise-cancelling
  • Connection types: 2.4 GHz wireless, analog (3.5mm)
  • Estimated battery life: 12 hours

Pros

  • Large ear cups pair great with spatial audio
  • High quality for the price
  • Light and comfortable

Cons

  • Doesn’t work as well with other platforms
  • So-so battery life

The Sony Pulse 3D, PlayStation’s own PS5 wireless headset, is a unique and, in some ways, perplexing device. Its cavernous ear cups create a great soundstage that gets the most out of the console’s spatial audio tech, Tempest, and makes games sound great, particularly when you compare it to other headsets at the same $99 price point. That said, it uses internal microphones, similar to what you’d find on a pair of wireless, productivity-focused noise-canceling headphones, rather than a boom mic. Even with noise-reduction tech, you can expect them to let in more ambient noise than other microphones. Hence, the caveat. The Pulse 3D is an excellent budget-conscious headset pick if you’re looking to get the full audio experience out of the PS5, but don’t care so much about chat quality. And if you do care? Check out the flagship Sony INZONE H9 wireless gaming headset, which adds active noise cancellation (like the consumer WH-1000XM4) and a flip-to-talk boom mic. Combined, the tech in the Inzone lets you zone in to the game.

Best budget: Razer Barracuda X

razer barracuda x

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Why it made the cut: The Barracuda X offers solid sound and a versatile wireless connection thanks to its USB-C dongle.

Specs

  • Drivers: 40mm 
  • Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
  • Microphone: Detachable, Unidirectional
  • Connection types: 2.4 GHz wireless via USB-C dongle, Analog (3.5mm)
  • Estimated battery life: 20 hours

Pros

  • USB-C dongle works with almost every core gaming device
  • Affordable
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • Sound is good, but not quite as impressive as other picks

The Barracuda X is the move for players who care about convenience above all else. With a USB-C wireless dongle, it easily pairs wirelessly with the PS5, Switch, PCs, and most modern Android phones. Its balanced sound profile doesn’t punch your eardrum with bass like lesser headsets, which narrowly puts it over much of the mid-to-budget wireless pack. That said, it doesn’t achieve the same level of nuance or audio isolation as the other headsets on this list. Even so, the Barracuda X is the closest thing to a one-size-fits-all wireless headset that I’ve tried, and that’s valuable for a lot of players.

What to consider when buying the best PS5 gaming headsets

Buying a headset using the information on the back of the box can be a crapshoot. There’s some useful information on there, but the most important qualities, like sound quality and comfort, cannot be gleaned from specs. Still, there’s a lot of useful information that can help you make a good purchasing decision in the moment.

Compatibility

The most important question is also the easiest to solve … Most of the time. Always check to make sure if a headset works with the platform(s) you own. For consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, the console is frequently referenced in the name of the product, or there’s a large sign on the box with a console logo. Worst case, you need to check a list on the box of compatible devices. Many wireless headsets for PC are also compatible with the PS5, so it never hurts to check their compatibility when you’re shopping.

Wired vs. wireless headsets

As with the PlayStation 4, the PS5 supports both wired and wireless headsets. Choosing between a wired and wireless headset is often a question of convenience versus cost. While the gap between the two isn’t gigantic, adding the extra tech to make a headset work untethered noticeably increases its price. 

That said, there are also good, non-financial reasons to consider a wired headset: Even the best wireless gaming headsets need to be charged frequently. Most premium headsets have an estimated max battery life of around 20 hours. (Often, you’ll get significantly less). If you play often enough, you may find yourself plugging the headset in to charge while you play. Some players will tell you that it’s worth it to use a wired headset to mitigate audio lag, but in my experience, that’s not an issue with a dedicated headset, especially if it connects to the console via a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle instead of the slightly slower Bluetooth option.

Weight

The weight of your headset matters more than you think. During a long play session, a heavy headset can start to feel heavy on your head. It doesn’t necessarily reveal whether or not a headset will be comfortable over time on its own: Padding, particularly a suspended or self-adjusting headband, can go a long way to easing the burden of a heavy headset. Ultimately, figuring out what’s comfortable is a personal decision, but if a headset looks big and bulky, chances are it’s going to be heavy. If that’s the case, look for thick memory foam padding and/or a suspended headband.

Microphones

Technically, a gaming headset is a combination of two devices—headphones and a microphone. The microphone is half of the equation, but most reviews spend significantly less time on it than the headphones. The fact is that most headsets reach a pretty high bar for quality across the board, and rarely deviate too far from it, so you don’t need to worry about specs too much. There are design qualities to keep in mind, like whether a mic is detachable or retractable. Some high-end headsets feature active noise-cancellation in the microphone to minimize ambient noise, which is always a nice touch but not necessarily a dealbreaker.

FAQs

Q: What headsets work with the PS5?

The PlayStation 5 works with wireless headsets that support its specific wireless standard, and wired headsets that connect via USB-A, USB-C, or an analog 3.5mm headphone jack. (Technically, you can also connect Bluetooth headphones to a PS5 with a USB Bluetooth adapter, but I wouldn’t recommend it). The easiest way to determine whether a headset is PS5 compatible or not is to simply check the box. There is almost always some mention of what platforms it’s designed for.

Q: Can I use my PS4 headphones with the PS5?

In most cases, you should be able to connect a PlayStation 4 headset to the PS5, especially if it pairs using a USB dongle or 3.5mm analog port. In fact, you’ll find that many new headsets brand themselves as PlayStation-compatible, rather than PS5-compatible, because they work with both PS4 and PS5.

Q: How much do PS5 headsets cost?

Most worthwhile gaming headsets cost between $99 and $200, though there are exceptions, including some of the high-end headsets on this list. 

Final thoughts on the best PS5 headsets

Everyone has their own priorities when buying a gaming headset. Some people want the best sound. Others prioritize comfort, or price, or convenience. Though there’s a lot of variation as you explore the range from budget models to audiophile-grade gear, remember that there are great options at every price and that the idea of the “best PS5 headset” is different for every person.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best PS5 headsets for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> The best Xbox One controllers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-xbox-one-controllers/ Fri, 24 Sep 2021 23:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=398341
Best Xbox One Controllers
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Xbox One gamers who want the edge over other players should use these controllers, which have all the buttons fit to press.

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Best Xbox One Controllers
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Best Overall The Xbox Elite Series 2 is the Best Xbox One Controller. Xbox Elite Series 2
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Microsoft’s second Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is an upgrade in almost every conceivable way.

Best wired The Wolverine V2 Chroma is the best Xbox One Controller. Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
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Razer’s newest revision of the wired Wolverine controller has advanced Chroma RGB light strips, as well as faster actuation and response times.
Best Budget The PowerA Enhanced controller is the best Xbox One Controller. PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller
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PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller is an affordable, reliable option that’s great for any gamer.

Xbox One players have a lot of choices when picking the best controller for playing the latest games. Microsoft’s next-generation consoles—the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S—are also available, so every controller we recommend will work with all three systems. Upgrading to a better controller for the Xbox One today—or picking up a second one for multiplayer games—is still a wise investment, even if you stick with your current system for several more years. As long as it’s one of the best Xbox One controllers, you should be good.

How we chose the best Xbox One controllers 

To choose the best Xbox One controllers, I channeled my years of research and experience writing about video games. Each of these controllers comes highly recommended by various play-testers, reviews from other publications, and my own testing. Also, should you ever upgrade to the Series S or Series X, these are the best controllers for those platforms as well.

And there are a lot of choices out there. The original “core” Xbox gamepad is great, but there’s a whole world of premium controllers with special features and budget options for players who want something cheap to put in a friend’s hands. Regardless of what you’re looking for, picking the best Xbox One controller for your specific needs can be a lot of work. Luckily, we’ve played a lot of video games with a lot of controllers, so we have some ideas about what you should pick up.

The best Xbox One controllers: Reviews & Recommendations

Our picks for the best Xbox One controllers range in price and have different features, but they all have something to offer. Whether you want something inexpensive, something more accessible, or just like crazy, cool RGB lighting, we’ve got you.

Best overall: Xbox Elite Series 2

Xbox One Elite Controller

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Why it made the cut: Microsoft’s second Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is an upgrade in almost every conceivable way, making this controller the best wireless Xbox One controller. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: 40 hours
  • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Impulse Triggers, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
  • Colors: Black
  • Weight: 12.2oz

Pros

  • Tons of customization options
  • Sturdy and stylish 
  • Long-lasting battery life  

Cons

  • Expensive

Microsoft went all out when it sought to reimagine its high-end Xbox Elite controller. Building on the core Xbox One controller, the Xbox Elite Series 2 features a host of augments and upgrades, including customizable buttons and swappable D-pads, to a wireless charging dock.

Do these extra features make a demonstrable difference? Yes. The controller feels premium in the hand, and while the extra weight is noticeable, it never made the Elite Series 2 unpleasant to hold. Its subtle features, like the way buttons and triggers feel when they’re pushed or the smoothness of the joysticks as they’re moved around and twisted, are easy to appreciate. The biggest technical differences between the Elite Series 2 and a standard Xbox One controller are its back triggers, which can be mapped to any of the controller’s face buttons for easy access, and a circular, paddle-style directional pad below the left joystick.

In our tests, the paddle-style directional pad didn’t make a big difference in how we played games, but the triggers were helpful game-by-game. The utility of these triggers will depend on how you hold the Elite Series 2 and whether you play games where it’s advantageous to keep your thumbs on its joysticks at all times. Typically, your right thumb would have to operate the face buttons (A,B,X,Y) and right joystick depending on what’s happening on screen, which can get tedious. If you take time to retrain your muscle memory, you may find yourself in an advantageous position compared to players using a different controller.

Simply put, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is the best Xbox One controller on the market now. Period. That level of quality translates to a high price tag, though. It’s also been difficult to find, lately, just like the consoles themselves. You’ve got to pay a lofty price for greatness, but this is the best gift you can give yourself as an Xbox player.

Best wired: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

The Wolverine V2 Chroma is the best Xbox One Controller.

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Why it made the cut: Razer’s newest revision of the wired Wolverine controller has advanced Chroma RGB light strips, as well as faster actuation and response times.

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: N/A
  • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Hair Trigger mode, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks, Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • Connections: USB-C wired
  • Colors: Black
  • Weight: 9.5oz

Pros

  • Customizable buttons and analog sticks
  • Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • Excellent grip profile

Cons

  • Wired connection only
  • Expensive

Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma is a fantastic wired counterpart to the Series 2 Elite controller. With additional customization options and features, it’s a luxury controller for players willing to pay for something special. Only, in this case, that specialty includes wired performance. The V2 Chroma is Razer’s third Wolverine. It looks similar to the original V2 but with customizable RGB piping, which launched in 2020, and its six multi-function buttons evoke the original Wolverine Ultimate, which came out nearly 10 years ago. It also has many features found on the Elite Series 2, including trigger locks and a swappable D-pad. All in all, it’s just as expensive as the Elite controller series and just as enticing for discerning players, which is why this controller is our pick for best wired Xbox One controller.

Best audio-centric: Turtle Beach Recon Xbox Controller

The Turtle Beach Recon is the best Xbox One Controller.

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Why it made the cut: Turtle Beach’s first controller brings a slew of headset-focused features for players who pair it with a wired headset.

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: N/A
  • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Hair Trigger mode, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks, Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • Connections: USB-A wired
  • Colors: Black
  • Weight: 10.6oz

Pros

  • Superhuman Hearing and audio controls
  • Ergonomic cooling grips
  • Rear quick-action buttons

Cons

  • Wired connection only
  • Audio features only work with analog headsets

The Turtle Beach Recon Xbox One Controller is a solid wired alternative to the standard Xbox controller. In exchange for having to plug in, you get selectable user-profiles and rear quick-action buttons, among other upgrades. However, the Recon stands apart from other controllers because of its audio-focused features. For players who plug a headset into the Recon with a 3.5mm headphone jack, the Recon gives you access to onboard audio controls, audio presets to mix your sound, and Turtle Beach’s competitive Superhuman hearing feature, which makes it easier to hear gameplay-relevant sounds like footsteps. It’s the best audio-centric Xbox One controller and a very good option for players who want to optimize for competitive play without spending too much on a controller and/or headset.

Best wireless: Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

Xbox One Controller

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Why it made the cut: The Xbox Wireless Controller is an affordable, reliable option that’s great for any gamer. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: 40 hours
  • Notable features: Rumble motors, dual analog sticks
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
  • Colors: Multiple
  • Weight: 9.9oz

Pros

  • Affordable and sturdy
  • Lengthy battery life
  • Multiple colors available

Cons

  • Fewer customization options than high-end alternatives

Do not underestimate the Xbox Wireless Controller. The standard Xbox gamepad is an affordable, sturdy, and versatile gamepad. This version, which comes with the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, is fully compatible with the Xbox One and features a very useful extra button. The “share” button right in the center lets you record a screenshot or video without accessing the Xbox menu.

This is the default Xbox controller for tens of millions of players, so, unsurprisingly, it performed very well during our gameplay tests. The Xbox “Core” controller is so good that we could easily have named it the best overall pick in this guide and dubbed the Elite Series 2 a premium option. The controller was always responsive, and its buttons, triggers, and joysticks felt fine. We’ve used this controller with an Xbox Series X for over two years, showing no sign of wear or degradation. One of this controller’s underrated (or at the very least underappreciated) features is how nice it feels in the hand. It’s lighter than its Elite sibling, and the plastic Microsoft used makes this controller easy to hold for multi-hour gaming sessions.

If you go for a second controller, the “core” controller, as it’s called sometimes, comes in a dizzying amount of colors and feels great in your hands, with buttons that feel good, hardy triggers, and a grippy surface that doesn’t get slick after lengthy gaming sessions. It may lack the bells and whistles of the other, more expensive controllers on this list, but it can handle anything you throw at it.

Most accessible: Xbox Adaptive Controller

The Xbox Adaptive controller is the best Xbox One Controller.

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Why it made the cut: Xbox’s Adaptive Controller is the only one of its kind, and it’s an absolute triumph for accessibility. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: 25 hours
  • Notable features: Multiple ports for accessible play, large face buttons
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired, additional hookups for additional accessibility-focused peripherals
  • Colors: White
  • Weight: 19.5oz

Pros

  • Designed so anyone can play
  • Decent battery life for multipurpose controller
  • Dizzying amount of input options

Cons

  • Can be a bit confusing to set up

The Xbox Adaptive Controller offers a unique proposition among game controllers. Specifically created for gamers with limited mobility, the two-button slab is a hub for specialty peripherals that allow players who can’t hold and/or easily use a traditional gamepad. You can connect buttons, joysticks, mounts, and essentially anything that makes it easier for anyone to jump in and play. It also includes features such as Bluetooth, Xbox wireless support, USB connectivity, and a 3.5 mm jack. It may be a bit confusing to set up for the first time, depending on your needs, but it’s the only controller that does what it does. Its unique capabilities open up the world of video games to many gamers who wouldn’t be able to play otherwise, and that’s a very special thing.

Best budget: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller

PowerA Wired Controller

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Why it made the cut: PowerA’s excellent peripheral pedigree means its latest wired Xbox controller is a great option at a low price point. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: N/A
  • Notable features: Dual rumble motors, mappable buttons, ergonomic design, textured diamond grip, dual analog sticks, headset dial, Share button
  • Connections: USB-C wired
  • Colors: Multiple
  • Weight: 7.2oz

Pros

  • Solid list of features
  • Affordable
  • Multiple colors available

Cons

  • Lacks customization found in higher-priced controllers

PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller is the best cheap Xbox One controller you can buy for less than the cost of a new Xbox Wireless Controller. It’s a solid wired option and adds some special features that the standard Xbox controller doesn’t have, including a pair of customizable rear buttons. There’s also a headset dial on board, so you can adjust the volume or mute the wired headset you choose to attach

The biggest benefits to using a wired game controller are never having to worry about latency (lag) or having to charge your device. Yes, using a wired controller brought back the classic memories of days spent tethered to 16 and 32-bit consoles of yesteryear, but it was nice to know our game wasn’t going to get interrupted by a “low battery” warning. Regarding responsiveness, PowerA’s Wireless Controller performed just as well as Microsoft’s first-party wireless controllers.

This is the lightest Xbox One controller we’re recommending—this is because there’s no heavy battery inside weighing it down—and while that didn’t make much of a difference to us, it could be the deciding factor if you’re optimizing your gaming experience for comfort. If you’re looking for an inexpensive Xbox One controller that works just as well as options that cost roughly double its price, PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller is the one to choose.

What to consider when buying the best Xbox One controllers

There are a surprisingly large number of things to consider when picking out a new Xbox One controller. There are obvious factors, like what types of games you’ll be playing and what kind of customization you’re looking to get out of your peripherals, but there are also smaller details, like the size of your hands. All these factors come into play when you’re seeking the perfect controller, so don’t be afraid to sweat the small stuff.

Cutting the cord

The standard Xbox controller is wireless, but that doesn’t mean everyone needs to have a wireless controller. In fact, there are still several great wired gamepads out there. In many cases, manufacturers make wired controllers to keep costs down. The cheapest controller will, inevitably, be wired only. That said, there are also wired controllers designed specifically for competitive players, who may be concerned about the potential input lag that inevitably creeps in with wireless controllers. Using a wired controller also eliminates the need to plug in a controller to charge between sessions or replace batteries.

In our experience, the difference in input lag between wireless controllers using Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox wireless connection and a wired controller is negligible, so most players should feel comfortable going wireless without issue. That said, don’t discount it automatically. Some of our favorite controllers are wired and worth picking up if you sit near your TV or monitor.

Button it up

All Xbox One controllers come with the same array of core buttons. However, many also feature customizable extra buttons or paddles, which you can map to create new button layouts. That means you can personalize your game in important ways, like changing the action button or assigning a different one to running or shooting. For some players, a custom control scheme can make a huge difference, or it may not be important at all. It all comes down to how much you like to personalize your experience.

Additional accommodations

Some gamers may need a controller with extra options to ensure they’re able to play their favorite titles without compromising. This might mean larger buttons or controllers that offer multiple inputs. Whatever your needs may be, there’s a controller that can help you settle in and enjoy the fantastical worlds you want to explore—or just up your body count as you move through the levels of your favorite first-person shooter. 

FAQs 

Q: Are third-party Xbox controllers worth buying?

Choosing a third-party controller doesn’t automatically mean “settling” or buying something cheap. In many cases, peripheral makers offer features Microsoft hasn’t added to its controllers, like Razer’s RGB lighting. Even among “budget” controllers, though, the bar for quality among controllers is as high as it’s ever been.

Q: Do I need any extra accessories for my Xbox controller?

You’ll want to ensure you have batteries on hand, as Microsoft’s standard wireless controller still needs two AA batteries for wireless play. Alternatively, you can also buy rechargeable batteries or an Xbox rechargeable battery kit so you can plug in and avoid generating e-waste.

Q: Are Xbox controllers hard to find in stores?

It depends on what you’re looking for. The standard Xbox Wireless Controller or less expensive options like PowerA are usually available at most retailers. You’re better off looking for specialized options like Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma and the Xbox Adaptive Controller online, as they can be much more difficult to find.

Q: How long do Xbox controllers last on average?

An Xbox controller will last several years before having to be replaced as long as it’s treated well. Playing video games with greasy fingers, dropping your controller on the ground, or leaving it uncharged (if wireless) for long stretches of time will impact its longevity.

Q: Can I use an Xbox One controller on Xbox 360?

Unfortunately, you cannot use an Xbox One controller with the Xbox 360.

Q: Can I connect Xbox controllers to PS4 or PS5?

Unfortunately, you cannot connect an Xbox One controller to a PlayStation.

Q: How much do Xbox controllers cost?

This depends on whether the controller is wired or wireless and whether it supports any unique features.

Q: Which other Xbox One accessories are worth it?

A controller is the most important accessory for any game console, but we have an entire guide dedicated to Xbox One and Xbox Series X accessories that are worth your time.

Final thoughts on the best Xbox One controllers

One of the best Xbox One controllers can go a long way toward maximizing the immersion of playing games on an Xbox (or a PC). Whether you’ve snagged an Xbox Series X or are still happily gaming on an Xbox One, there are options for everyone. There’s no reason to purchase an uncomfortable controller from a mystery brand with flimsy analog sticks, frustrating D-pads, or sweaty plastic. We’ve come a long way when it comes to controller technology, so you should never have to deal with those “Player 2” gamepads ever again.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Xbox One controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best external hard drives for PS5 in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-external-hard-drives-for-ps5/ Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=468091
Best External Hard Drives for PS5
Mike Epstein

Store more and worry less when it comes to your PS5's game library.

The post The best external hard drives for PS5 in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

]]>
Best External Hard Drives for PS5
Mike Epstein

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB is the best overall external hard drive for PS5. Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB
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The PlayStation-themed Seagate Game Drive offers a good amount of storage and a subtle design.
Best high-speed Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD is the best high speed external hard drive for PS5. Samsung T7 Shield 2TB, Portable SSD
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If you want the fastest read and write speeds, despite the PS5’s limitations, the Samsung T7 Shield is a very capable external SSD.
Best budget Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB is the best budget external hard drive for PS5. Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB 
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The Toshiba Canvio Basics is a solid line of affordable external hard drives.

The PlayStation 5 features an ultra-fast solid-state drive that loads games incredibly fast, but it doesn’t offer a huge amount of storage, so you should consider attaching an external hard drive. The internal 825GB hard drive feels incredibly small at a time when some games can take up more than 100GB. If you play a lot of games—or just a few of the right ones—you’re going to max that out pretty quickly. The PS5 offers two ways to create more room for games on your console. You can install an M.2 drive for high-speed internal storage, or use an external hard drive to store PS4 games or put PS5 games in “cold storage.” The best external hard drives for PS5 can give you tons of extra storage for older games so that you can save your speedy SSD for your most important games.

How we chose the best PS5 external hard drives

I’ve covered game consoles and computers for publications like TechnoBuffalo, The Tech Report, and GameSpot. To pick out drives for this piece, I researched the best-known brands and looked for the most interesting drives: the fastest, the cheapest, the smallest, the most rugged. I also cross-referenced those findings with reviews from critics, peers, and typical users to get a sense of which drives paired well with a PS5 and which ones didn’t.

The best external hard drives for PS5: Reviews & Recommendations

The best external hard drives for PS5 run the gamut from small, cheap drives to store a few games to fast drives that may be able to store your whole collection. Since the absolute best of the best would be overkill, given the PS5’s hardware restrictions, we’ve focused on drives that offer a good balance of speed and storage capacity. That said, any drive that meets the PS5’s requirements should work well and will be easy to set up.

Best overall: Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB

Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB is the best overall external hard drive for PS5.

Seagate

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The PlayStation-themed Seagate Game Drive offers a good amount of storage and a subtle design.

Specs

  • Capacity: 4TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Reasonably priced
  • PlayStation branding makes it easy to match to your gear
  • Tons more space compared to the PS5’s on-board storage

Cons

  • HDD, not SSD
  • Smaller capacity may not be as good for upcoming PS5 games

Though the PlayStation connection is purely cosmetic, Seagate’s Game Drive for PlayStation consoles balances speed, storage capacity, and price very well. The 4TB model gives you a ton of space for new and old PS4 games for a very reasonable price. Plus, it’s small and portable, making it a great vehicle for transferring games from a PS4 to a PS5.

Best value: Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive is the best value external hard drive for PS5.

Western Digital

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: If you’re counting bytes per dollar, the Western Digital 8TB Elements Hard Drive is a great deal.

Specs

  • Capacity: 8TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Tons of storage
  • Best value per dollar at the time of writing

Cons

  • Requires a separate power adapter (included)

You usually need to look at really external hard drives to get the best value-per-byte from a new storage device. With the PS5’s 8TB limit, this is as high as we can go. Western Digital’s 8TB Elements drive will give you lots of storage for the best value right now—just about anything else is going to cost you at least a few dollars more. Unlike many of our picks, which are small and portable, this is a large desktop hard drive that needs to draw power from an outlet. Just plug it in, hide it in the back of your media cabinet, and you’ve got a secret treasure trove of PlayStation 4 games.

Best themed hard drive: Seagate Horizon Forbidden West Limited Edition Game Drive

Seagate Horizon Forbidden West Limited Edition Game Drive for PlayStation 5 5TB is the best themed hard drive.

Seagate

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This special edition version of our top pick features a neat design based on one of our favorite games of 2023.

Specs

  • Capacity: 5TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Good amount of storage
  • Awesome design on the drive casing
  • Limited Edition makes it feel a little more special

Cons

  • The cool design costs extra

Once it’s plugged in, a hard drive is a hard drive. All that matters is that it can load data quickly and can store enough games to serve your needs. If your hard drive will sit out on a shelf for everyone to see, though, why not pick out one that looks cool, too? Seagate makes a bunch of special edition drives with artwork inspired by specific games. PlayStation players may be drawn to this drive based on Horizon: Forbidden West and the recent one based on The Last of Us Part II, but there are also Star Wars drives based on The Mandalorian, with the man himself, Grogu, and Boba Fett, as well as one drive themed to look like Beskar, the metal used in making the legendary Mandalorian armor.

Best portable: SanDisk 512GB UltraFit USB 3.1 Flash Drive

SanDisk 512GB UltraFit USB 3.1 Flash Drive is the best portable external hard drive for PS5.

SanDisk

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Why it made the cut: The SanDisk 512GB UltraFit is very small, even by flash drive standards.

Specs

  • Capacity: 512GB
  • Drive type: Flash
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Tiny
  • Inexpensive
  • Faster than a hard disk drive

Cons

  • Small storage capacity

This is the smallest drive on this list in every sense of the word. The SanDisk UltraFit is smaller than any of our other picks. In fact, it’s smaller than most flash drives. You could easily put it in your pocket and forget about it. More importantly, you can plug it into a console and completely forget it’s there.

At the same time, it’s also only 512GB, which doesn’t add all that much capacity to your console. That said, 512GB is nearly as much as the PS5’s internal storage with the OS installed. The price is small, too, so it’s a good way to get a little extra storage without spending too much.

Best high-speed: Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD

Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD is the best high speed external hard drive for PS5.

Samsung

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: If you want the fastest read and write speeds, despite the PS5’s limitations, the Samsung T7 Shield is a very capable external SSD.

Specs

  • Capacity: 2TB
  • Drive type: M.2 SSD
  • USB type: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2

Pros

  • Incredibly fast
  • Very small
  • Rugged construction

Cons

  • High price
  • Limited capacity

It’s a bit early to start thinking about moving games from one PS5 to another (most people need good luck just to get that first console), but we still love the rugged construction of the Samsung T7 Shield. This drive offers 1000MBps sequential read/write speeds, so it isn’t the fastest SSD out there. It’s fine for this use case, though, and you might notice a small bump in load times if you compare it to other external hard drives. If nothing else, the rugged build will ensure this drive lasts, which is nice since it’s expensive.

Best budget: Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB

Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB is the best budget external hard drive for PS5.

Toshiba

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Toshiba Canvio Basics is a perfect external hard drive for price-conscious gamers.

Specs

  • Capacity: 1TB
  • Drive type: HDD
  • USB type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Simple design

Cons

  • Limited capacity

Toshiba’s Canvio Basics drive is an inexpensive way to more than double the available storage of the PlayStation 5. With even just 1TB, you can still store around 30 games, which is nothing to sneeze at. If that doesn’t seem like enough, you can always upgrade to something bigger. If you do, you won’t feel bad about retiring such an inexpensive drive.

What to consider before buying the best external hard drives for PS5

The PlayStation 5 can quickly fill up its internal storage; the console’s operating system takes up a notable, noticeable percentage of the space, so you have only 670GB for games and apps when you first boot up. Adding some more hard drive space is a worthwhile investment if you plan to play lots of different games, which is more likely than ever, thanks to Sony’s expanded PlayStation Plus program. That said, external hard drives work differently on the PS5. Here are a few things you should know before buying one:

You can’t play PS5 games off an external hard drive

Let’s start with the most important thing: The PlayStation 5 cannot run PS5 games off an external hard drive. PS5 games need to boot off a fast SSD, similar to the one in the system. No external enclosures, even ones with a high-speed SSD, can easily run PS5 games. There is a way to expand your internal storage by installing a high-speed M.2 SSD inside your console; to learn more about how to do that, check out our explainer on the topic.

There are still plenty of things you and your PS5 can do with an external hard drive. First and foremost, it can run PlayStation 4 games. If you had a PS4 for years before getting a PS5, you’ll be able to store and have access to a large number of your last-gen games without taking up room on the PS5’s hard drive. It’s also worth noting that there’s still a steady stream of new games, especially smaller indies, that are technically PS4 games.

You can also store PS5 games on your external hard drive in “cold storage,” where you can’t play them. If you have a data cap or a spotty internet connection, this allows you to install and uninstall games without connecting to PSN. You’ll still have to manage your hard drive, but it’ll lift some of the burden off your network.

External hard drives and the PlayStation 5

Sony has some recommended guidelines and restrictions for PS5 external hard drives. None of them are terribly demanding, but they are worth keeping in mind as you search for a new drive, especially if you’re considering repurposing an older one that you’ve been using with a PC or another console:

  • Minimum speed: USB 3.0 or later
  • Storage capacity: 250 GB minimum, 8 TB maximum capacity.
  • You can’t connect the drive through a USB hub.
  • The PS5 can only read one external hard drive at a time. You can plug in two, but you’ll need to switch between them.

As with using an external hard drive for Xbox One, you will need to format your hard drive specifically to store PlayStation games, which means you will need a dedicated hard drive for the console. You cannot use an external hard drive to store PS4 games and back up your PC at the same time, for example.

It’s also worth noting that the PS5 caps the speeds on some high-end hard drives. Specifically, USB 3.2 Gen 1 connections are capped at 5 Gbps, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connections are capped at 10Gbps. Without diving too deep into the distinctions between the many, many versions of USB, it’s important to note that the PS5 can’t get top speeds out of high-end hard drives, so it’s better to focus on getting something affordable that fits within Sony’s suggested specs.

What games do you play?

Most games—even the new ones for the latest systems—typically take up around 30-40 GB of hard drive space. But then there are games like Gran Turismo 7, which takes up 183GB, more space than the PlayStation 5 operating system, or Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut, which needs 122GB of disk space. 

Take a quick look at the install sizes of the games you play the most, and let that serve as a guide for how much storage you think you’ll need.

If your PS5’s internal drive is almost full already, you might want to skip this list entirely and jump straight to installing a Sony-approved M.2 drive, though that will be somewhat of an edge case for most users.

FAQs

Q: How many PS5 games can you fit on a 1TB hard drive?

Games vary greatly in size, so a 1TB hard drive could fill up after 10 games or over 100 of them. If all of your games take up tons of space, you might only be able to fit six or seven games in 1TB. If you play lots of indie titles, you might be able to fit more than 40 or 50 games. Realistically speaking, most players will land somewhere in the middle.

Q: Should I get an SSD or HDD for my PS5?

Assuming we’re talking about external hard drives, rather than the kind of SSD you can install in your console, the difference between an external HDD and an external SSD may not be as large as you’d think when plugged into a PS5. The PS5 limits bandwidth on faster USB connections, so you aren’t getting the advertised max read and write speeds from an SSD. Even then, some SSDs will confer faster load times.

That said, there’s a strong argument in favor of going with an HDD, which will give you more storage capacity for a much lower price. Considering that no external hard drive can replicate the PS5’s internal hard drive speed, we think the HDD is a better value.

Q: Does adding an SSD to a PS5 make it faster?

Adding an external (or internal, for that matter) SSD to your PlayStation 5 will not impact the console’s overall performance. PS4 games running off an external hard drive will not load as quickly as if they were on the PS5’s internal hard drive, even if the external drive is an SSD.

Q: How much does an external hard drive for PS5 cost?

This depends on its capacity, but our recommendations cost between $17 and $250.

Final thoughts on the best external hard drives for PS5

As long as your drive of choice fits Sony’s minimum and maximum requirements, it’ll work just fine with your PS5. You might even own a perfectly serviceable drive for this purpose. If you need a new one, all of our picks for best external hard drives for PS5 work well with the next-gen hardware, and almost all of them will more than double your available storage.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best external hard drives for PS5 in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The cheap Xbox controllers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-cheap-xbox-controllers/ Mon, 18 Sep 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=571541
The best cheap Xbox controllers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Get more fun for less money with an inexpensive Xbox controller. Level up your gaming, not your budget.

The post The cheap Xbox controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best cheap Xbox controllers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S
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Sleek, responsive, and the standard by which other cheap Xbox controllers are measured.
Best wireless JORREP Xbox Controller JORREP Xbox Controller
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Your best cheap, wire-free option.
Best budget YUYIU Upgraded Wired Controllers for Xbox YUYIU Upgraded Wired Controllers for Xbox
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The style and feel of the best overall minus a few features and minus a few dollars.

Hey, you—yes, you, gamer—what are you doing with just one Xbox controller that comes packaged with the console? Couch multiplayer isn’t dead, and quite frankly, it rules. Plus, that wireless beauty occasionally runs out of sweet, sweet battery juice, so you better have a backup. Oh, but I hear you—controllers are expensive. It’s true! Aren’t there options that are a little less brutal on the wallet? You’re in luck, my good gamer, there are. Despite their lower prices, budget Xbox controls are a good-looking, good-performing, and durable bunch, with options for those who want a little more style, a retro feel, and even a bargain-basement price. Official Xbox controllers are great for pwning but expensive for owning. Talk just as much trash without as much cash when you’re dominating online with the best cheap Xbox controllers.

How we chose the best cheap Xbox controllers

We’ve combined some hands-on experiences, critical consensus from around the web, and trusted recommendations from professionals and fellow gamers to prune our list down to these recommendations. All these are solid buys, some offering more bells and whistles than others. Third-party controllers have come a long way since the early days of console gaming when they were almost always inherently inferior to the 1st party controllers offered by Nintendo, Sega, or Sony. Brans like PowerA, 8Bitdo, and GameSir offer high-quality, officially licensed products that look just as slick and play just as slick as Microsoft’s offerings. So be assured that your cheap Xbox controller isn’t going to look or feel cheap; it’s just going to save you some money.

The major consideration with these controllers is performance vs. price. What do you get for your money? Because the quality of third-party controllers is relatively high, “does it work” is pretty much a baseline. The secondary consideration is looks. To be honest, these are all good-looking controllers, but some may fit your ideal aesthetic more than others.

The best cheap Xbox controllers: Reviews & Recommendations

The base Xbox controller, also known as the Xbox Wireless Core Controller, retails for $60, nearly as much as—sometimes even more than—a new game. That’s pretty disheartening. Luckily, there are affordable alternatives.

However, a bit of caution: Most of the cheaper options for Xbox Controllers are going to be wired. Wireless tech is expensive, and quite frankly, that $60 Xbox Wireless Core Controller is probably still your best overall value for a wireless controller, even if it’s not exactly cheap. We only have one wireless recommendation in our list; it’s not officially licensed and occupies one of the USB inputs on your console (which you might otherwise be using). It’s hardly a bad buy of a controller but wired is where you’re headed when you want to save cash on a new joystick.

But there’s good news, too! Due to Microsoft also being the company behind the primary gaming operating system for computers (Windows), every single one of these cheap Xbox controllers doubles as a PC controller with minimal set-up and often some nice customization options. So, beyond getting yourself a good, cheap Xbox controller, you’re also getting a good, cheap PC controller for the occasional battlestation exclusive you will surely want to be playing. Bonus!

Without further ado, here’s the rundown of the buttons and sticks. There is a controller and brand that ekes its way to the top of the list, but the gulf between “best overall” and the rest overall is very small.

Best overall: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S

PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S

PowerA

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 7.2 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack with volume dial
  • Features: Share button, one-touch chat mute, officially licensed 

Pros

  • Classic style available in lots of colors
  • Extra onboard buttons for useful functions
  • Lightweight
  • Responsive controls with satisfying grip

Cons

  • Not wireless
  • May not hold up long to heavy use 


PowerA has, in recent years, become the primary third-party option for console gamers’ controllers, with Xbox, of course, but also Switch and PlayStation 5. The reason is simple: their controllers are good. The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox looks a lot like an Xbox Wireless Core Controller, but with a wire and a few extra buttons, a bit more height, and a different directional pad. There are many colorways, so you can ensure your controller fits with whatever decor your living room (or gaming cave) has cultivated. Construction is seamless, with a really nice feel and weight. There are two extra buttons on the back that can be programmed as different single- or multi-button presses, which can be advantageous. Audio is on-board with one-touch muting and an on-controller volume control. Essentially, everything you need from a controller is there, plus more.

Unfortunately, there have been reports of this controller starting to show problems after several months of heavy use. Most are cosmetic—paint in different spots might change color or wear off. However, some users have reported issues with the directional pad cropping up. Luckily, PowerA’s willingness to service their products still under warranty is well-regarded, so if you get unlucky and your controller doesn’t last too long, you can contact them and see what can be done. If you’re a casual gamer and only play games for a few hours a week, you’ll probably not see any significant difference in the lifetime of this controller and your first-party Xbox controller. That’s what makes it the best overall cheap Xbox controller.

Best performance: GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller

GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller

GameSir

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 15.2 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Features: Hall Effect sticks and buttons, two custom back buttons, pulse vibration, officially licensed 

Pros

  • Superior sticks and buttons
  • Attractive styling
  • Customizable back buttons
  • Switchable control set-ups

Cons

  • Sticks and buttons have a bit less give than you might expect
  • Pricer than the best overall


GameSir G7 SE is our best alternative choice to the PowerA Enhanced controller. In terms of overall performance, it actually outshines PowerA. However, it lacks a few features and retails for $12 more than the PowerA, and we’re talking about cheap Xbox controllers—$10 less than an Xbox Wireless Core Controller isn’t the cheapest.

But when it comes to performance, GameSir G7 SE is, indeed, the best. The sticks and triggers are Hall Effect, which means they stand up to use far better than other controllers. Stick drift—where the “neutral” position of your sticks begins to press slightly in a direction—is less of a problem, and the analog triggers have more precision. However, the buttons and stick may also feel a bit stiffer, which may or may not be comfortable for you, depending on the resistance you’re expecting.

In terms of customization, you can download software on your PC or Xbox to create multiple layout profiles—a default profile plus three alternates—which you can switch on the fly with a toggle switch. This can be very useful if you’re playing a variety of genres or if you have multiple players in the house who like their controller settings different. Two buttons on the back of the controller can be customized, much like the PowerA Enhanced.

The while-with-green-highlights aesthetic is clean and attractive, and while the controller is quite heavy, it feels comfortable in the hand. If you’re more concerned with how well a controller performs and less concerned with saving money, the GameSir G7 SE is the best-performance cheap Xbox controller in comparison to a standard Xbox Wireless Core Controller.

Best wireless: JORREP Xbox Controller

JORREP Xbox Controller

JORREP

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Specs

  • Connection: Wireless USB receiver (Bluetooth)
  • Weight: 10.2 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Features: Share button, button mapping on PC

Pros

  • Wireless
  • Button-mapping available on PC
  • On-board audio

Cons

  • No vibration
  • Wireless receiver occupies USB input


Simply put, there are not many wireless options that would be considered cheap. In fact, none of the wireless options that cost less than an Xbox Wireless Core Controller are officially licensed. Microsoft clearly hopes you’ll buy from them if wireless is one of your requirements. There are non-official options, however, and the JORREP Xbox Controller is the best of them.

Visually, the JORREP apes the Xbox Wireless Core Controller to a tee. The big tell is the different symbol on the home button–as a non-licensed product, they can’t use the Xbox’s X symbol. Otherwise, they’re quite hard to tell apart. However, you’ll feel the difference when you hold the JORREP in your hands. There’s no vibration function in the JORREP, so it’s significantly lighter. For power, you need batteries, even if you use a USB connection to turn it into a wired controller–it will not take power from the console to function.

The wireless function for this controller is through a USB receiver that pairs with the controller. The range is probably enough for a smaller living room or TV/chair set-up, but the further you get away from the receiver, the more likely you will have a dropped connection, which can be frustrating. It also means that you can lose the ability to play if the receiver fails, even if there’s no problem with the controller itself.

Overall, the controller feels a bit less durable and long-lasting than the Xbox Wireless Core Controller, but also costs about half the price, meaning if you want a cheap alternative that’s still wireless, the JORREP can give you exactly what you’re looking for, making it the best wireless cheap Xbox controller.

Best style: PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S

PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller

PowerA

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 10.2 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack with volume dial
  • Features: LED bed for sticks and buttons, share button, two mappable back buttons, one-touch mute button, officially licensed 

Pros

  • Awesome LED beds for sticks, buttons, and rim
  • Same quality as PowerA Enhanced, our best overall
  • Volume and muting controls on the controller
  • Extrable, mappable back buttons

Cons

  • Wired
  • Some users have experienced static when toggling between mute and unmute


Want our best overall controller but willing to spend a few more bucks so that it looks totally rad? That’s what the PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Controller for Xbox offers. At a slightly higher price point (though sometimes surprisingly cheaper due to ongoing sales), you get all the benefits of a PowerA Enhanced Controller but with really, really cool LED beds around the rim of the controller, the buttons, and sticks/directional pad. You can set these via software to pulse different colors, stay one color, or cycle. It really adds an awesome bit of flair to your controller and makes you feel like your hands are living in the movie Tron.

Otherwise, this is the exact same controller as the PowerA Enhanced. It has the same solid construction, the same tendency to wear a bit with heavy use, the same comfortable feel, the same programmable buttons, and the same on-board audio options. However, some users have reported that when muting and unmuting with the on-controller button, they’ve experienced static in their headphones. This may be a headphone/controller compatibility issue, or a game issue, but just know that’s out there. It’s a rare complaint, however.

If you’re willing to turn cheap into slightly less cheap to be totally awesome, the PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Controller probably has the best style of any cheap Xbox controller on the market.

Best for headset audio: RIG Nacon PRO Compact Controller 

RIG Nacon PRO Compact Controller

RIG

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 10.9 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack with Dolby Atmos compatibility
  • Features: App for button and stick sensitivity customization, share button, officially licensed 

Pros

  • Dolby Atmos compatibility
  • Compact design
  • Customizability app
  • Officially licensed

Cons

  • Not particularly attractive
  • Shorter grips might not be to everyone’s liking


The RIG Narcon offers a really nice surprise that none of the other controllers in this list can match: Dolby Atmos compatibility with a plugged-in headset. Dolby Atmos is the most advanced audio on the market, placing sounds in unique positions and really making you feel like you’re in the game. Most other inputs in this list only offer stereo sound in your headset and require you to plug your Atmos-compatible headphones directly into the console. Being able to connect to the controller gives you less worries about cords and, more specifically, other people or pets tripping over cords.

As a controller, the RIG Narcon offers some nice customization options via an app downloadable to either PC or Xbox. This includes button and stick sensitivity. The design is compact, with smaller grips, which might be better or worse for you depending on your hands and preferences. There are no back buttons with customizability, which is why the RIG Narcon is down here and not the best overall. However, it’s still an excellent controller that might be best for those with small hands and a love of immersive audio, which makes it the best cheap Xbox controller for headset audio.

Best retro: 8Bitdo Ultimate Wired Controller

8Bitdo Ultimate Wired Controller for Xbox Series X

8Bitdo

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 15.7 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Features: Two back paddle buttons, switchable profiles, trigger vibration, customization software, officially licensed 

Pros

  • Cool retro styling
  • Durable
  • High level of customization
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Wide-body design may not be preferable for everyone
  • Software is not particularly good


8Bitdo is known for two things: cool retro looks and really durable controllers. These Xbox controllers are meant to resemble a superior version of the original Xbox controllers with a wide body, but they’re much more comfortable than those behemoths were. It is still quite heavy, though. The width and more square grips may also be a little more uncomfortable for some users. 

The 8Bitdo can really take heavy use. The finish and the function will continue at like-new quality well into the life of your 8Bitdo Ultimate Wired Controller. The programmable back buttons can replicate any other button on the face, but that’s it. It’s a bit disappointing that they can’t be mapped to other functions when the controller is used with a PC, as a lot of PC games could benefit from additional actions rather than just alternate buttons. The software is also not the most user-friendly.

Overall, it’s a great controller, but even better if you can get it on sale, as at its MSRP, it’s not quite as full-featured as you’d like, and the size and weight may not be the best for everyone. Despite those drawbacks, the 8Bitdo Ultimate Wired Controller is the best cheap retro Xbox controller.

Best value: PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S

PowerA Wired Controller

PowerA

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 7.4 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Features: Share button, officially licensed 

Pros

  • Very similar design to Xbox Wireless Core Controller
  • Light and comfortable
  • Reasonably priced
  • Responsive

Cons

  • None of the advanced features of the PowerA Enhanced
  • Finish may not stand up to heavy use


This one is pretty simple. PowerA has an Enhanced Wired Controller. This controller is not Enhanced. Thus, they’re essentially the exact same form factor but without the bells and whistles that make the Enhanced the best overall cheap Xbox controller. That means you get the same size and feel, the same responsive controls, and the same stylings, but you don’t get the onboard audio options, the same level of customizability, or the programmable back paddle buttons.

What you do get is a much cheaper price. You can buy two PowerA Wired Controllers for the price of one Xbox Wireless Core Controller, based on MSRP. This makes them the best value option, especially for controllers that will only get used when friends or family want to play multiplayer with you.

Be aware that much like the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller, the finish can wear off quickly, and the components might degrade. Still, if it happens particularly fast, the warranty likely covers you. The great play for the small price makes the PowerA Wired Controller the best-value Xbox controller.

Best budget: YUYIU Upgraded Wired Controllers for Xbox

YUYIU Upgraded Wired Controllers for Xbox

YUYIU

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Specs

  • Connection: Wired USB
  • Weight: 10.7 ounces
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Features: Vibration, share button

Pros

  • Cheapest option
  • Comfortable in the hands
  • Acceptable aesthetic

Cons

  • No additional features
  • Loose sticks and buttons


Budget means the lowest-cost controller we can reasonably recommend, but it also means no frills. YUYIU offers an Xbox controller with basically no features–there’s vibration, a share button, and that’s about it–but for an unbeatable price. It’s, of course, also PC-compatible.

The main drawbacks of going budget are the somewhat loose feeling on the sticks and buttons and having less durability than some more expensive but still cheap options. This is admittedly a pretty big drawback, as some of our other options have really solid construction.

If money is really the biggest factor, check our other options to ensure they’re not on sale. If they aren’t, you’ll get a decent no-frills controller from the YUYIU Upgraded Wired Controller, making it the best budget cheap Xbox controller.

What to consider when choosing a cheap Xbox controller

The first question you should ask yourself is whether you’re willing to play with a wired controller. While we do have a wireless option, it’s hard to recommend it over an Xbox Wireless Core Controller unless the price really is that important. If you don’t mind wires, you actually gain a lot of new options with some of our recommendations, particularly our best performance option, the GameSir G7 SE.

Once you know you can go wired, it comes down to what matters most to you: overall value with performance, pure performance, looks, or price. The cheapest controllers out there aren’t the best, and the best ones aren’t necessarily the nicest-looking. There’s unfortunately not one controller on the market that is so good it can be recommended over any other no matter what, or one controller that so outperforms its price that it would be silly to buy anything else.

Speaking as a gamer myself, I’d look at any of these options as a secondary or backup controller. If you want a controller that will help you improve your game performance, you’re better off spending the money and getting an Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. It’s Microsoft’s official “pro” controller, and despite the high price, it really offers superior feel and performance to the Xbox Wireless Core Controller, even more so over the cheap controllers. However, if you’re looking for a controller for the occasional group multiplayer night, or in case of a dead battery or accidental break of your primary controller, our recommendations are aces.

FAQs

Q: Are cheap Xbox controllers good for competitive gaming?

Unfortunately, while cheap Xbox controllers are excellent for competitions between friends, you’re not going to get the precision or customization that eSports players or highly competitive players truly crave. For that, you’ll need to go up in cost, not down, and consider an Xbox Elite Controller.

Q: Which cheap Xbox controllers are officially licensed?

Among our recommendations, the controllers from PowerA, GameSir, RIG Nacon, and 8Bitdo are officially licensed, which ensures compatibility and support from Microsoft.

Q: Can I use cheap Xbox controllers with my PC?

Yes! Every one of these cheap Xbox controllers double as cheap PC controllers, meaning you can double-dip your cost-conscious purchase.

Q: Can I use cheap Xbox controllers with my PS5?

Unfortunately, no. Sony is notorious for limiting the number of products that can be used with their machines, and the PS5 is no exception.

Q: Are cheap Xbox controllers wireless?

No cheap Xbox controller has built-in wireless support directly to your Xbox. The only cheap Xbox controllers that connect wirelessly to an Xbox do so through a USB receiver and don’t have the low latency that is offered by the official Xbox Wireless Core Controller, which is your best value if you want a wireless controller for Xbox. However, it can be pricey at MSRP $60. Cheap Xbox wireless controllers work, but they’re not going to have as good performance as the Core Controller.

Final thoughts on the best cheap Xbox controllers

In the end, budget is what budget is. If you can only afford a $22 controller, you won’t be upset with a YUYIU. If you’re looking for a secondary controller but want to save 25%, the PowerA Enhanced or GameSir G7 SE are really good controllers that won’t set you back what a second Xbox Wireless Core Controller will. Cheap Xbox controllers do the hard work of keeping you in the game, and we’ve done the hard work of telling you which are the best to choose. After all, the best cheap Xbox controller is the one that lets you play all the awesome games on your Xbox, isn’t it?

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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]]> The best monitors for Xbox Series X in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-monitors-for-xbox-series-x/ Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=424565
The best monitors for Xbox Series X
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Everything you need to know about playing your Xbox Series X on a PC monitor.

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The best monitors for Xbox Series X
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Best overall Best monitors for Xbox Series X Philips Momentum 559M1RYV
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The Philips Momentum is a huge, fast display optimized for the Xbox Series X, with a high-quality built-in sound system for good measure.
Best 4K Best Monitors for Xbox Series X ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q
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The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q is a great entry-level 4K monitor that strikes a balance between quality and cost.
Best budget Best monitors for Xbox Series X Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
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The Gigabyte Aorus FV43U hits all the same performance benchmarks as our top choice, but for substantially less money.

The Xbox Series X will allow you to fully appreciate one of the most powerful home consoles of all time, assuming you have a monitor that does its games justice. With Xbox Game Pass, the Netflix-style game library subscription, expanding all the time, now is the perfect time to grab Microsoft’s newest 4K-capable game console. It plays both Xbox Series and Xbox One games in 4K at a rock-solid 60 frames per second, with some games already running at 120fps. Microsoft also promises 8K capability is on the way once a critical mass of content and screens rise to the challenge. While we generally associate console games with flatscreen TVs, many players prefer the expanded configuration options of traditional PC monitors, even for console gaming. To get the most out of the Xbox Series X, however, requires a fairly high-end gaming monitor. We’ve rounded up the best monitors for Xbox Series X to help you find the right panel to unlock all of its power.

How we chose the best monitors for Xbox Series X

Through testing, reading monitor reviews, and a lifetime of experience in both console and PC gaming, we surveyed modern monitors on the market right now and drilled down on those capable of showcasing the Xbox Series X’s graphical specs. We selected monitors that are all well-reviewed and offer solid value for their price, including both overall top choices as well as products that selectively cut corners to reduce cost, with options that preserve resolution and frame rate.

The best monitors for Xbox Series X: Reviews & Recommendations

True to Microsoft’s PC roots, the Series X offers a more generous range of monitor compatibility than any other console on the market. That means the “best” monitor for you depends entirely on your priorities. No matter your budget or interests, we’re confident that you’ll be able to find a great fit among our selection below to really make the best Xbox Series X games pop.

Best overall: Philips Momentum 559M1RYV 

Philips Momentum 559M1RYV monitor header image

Mike Epstein

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Why it made the cut: The Philips Momentum is a huge, fast display optimized for the Xbox Series X, with a high-quality built-in sound system for good measure.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 55 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (3) DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C (1), USB-B (1), USB 3.2 (4)
  • Panel Type: VA
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 1000

Pros:

  • 4K/144Hz
  • HDMI 2.1
  • TV-sized 55-inch panel
  • Built-in soundbar

Cons: 

  • Expensive

Philips made one of the first “Designed for Xbox”-certified monitors for the Xbox Series X, and it’s a doozy. At 55 inches, the Phillips Momentum looks more like a television but has all the fine-grained control and port options you would expect from a dedicated gaming monitor. It hits all of the console’s top specs with 4K, 144Hz, HDMI 2.1, and HDR. It also includes a fantastic built-in 2.1-channel stereo Bowers & Wilkins soundbar, as well as Ambiglow lights on the back that can be programmed to match your content. VA (Vertical Alignment)-type panels, compared to IPS (In-Plane Switching) ones, historically sacrifice a bit of speed in order to get rich colors and contrast, but the Momentum has been built from the ground up for gaming and, as our reviewer discovered, excels even when your game moves at top speed.

Best 1440p 144Hz monitor: Alienware AW2723DF

Alienware AW2723DF

Alienware

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Why it made the cut: The Alienware AW2723DF is an outstanding monitor for Xbox gaming.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1440p (2560×1440)
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-A (4), USB-B (1)
  • Panel type: IPS Nano
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600

Pros

  • Up to 240Hz refresh rate
  • DisplayHDR 600 certified
  • 32 local dimming zones
  • Excellent color coverage

Cons

  • Screen glow can be an issue
  • 1ms response time only possible in “Extreme Overdrive” mode

The Alienware AW2723DF was designed with PC gamers in mind—which is why it made the cut in our guide to the best 1440p 144Hz monitors—but Xbox Series X owners will be able to take advantage of most of the same features. This includes its ultra-high refresh rate (the Xbox Series X only supports up to 120Hz gameplay), and support for VESA DisplayHDR 600. Many cutting-edge Xbox Series X games support HDR (high dynamic range) for better color reproduction, so having it here is a big deal. For non-HDR games, the AW2723DF’s support of 95% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum will keep them looking punchy as well.

One of the display technologies Alienware opted to support with the AW2723DF is local dimming zones, which are primarily found on TVs. This allows the monitor to adjust the brightness in 32 different sections of its display independently, which significantly improves contrast. Here’s an example: If you’re playing a game in which you’re traversing a dark cave with a torch, the monitor won’t have to brighten the entire screen for the sake of making the torch easier to see. You’ll get the dankness of the cave all around you, with only the sections of this monitor illuminated by the torch looking brighter. The effect is more realistic-looking environments.

Finally, if you’re a cross-platform gamer—a person who likes to play games on multiple systems—the AW2723DF’s bevy of ports will come in handy. You can hook up two consoles and a PC to the display simultaneously—no need for an HDMI switch or constantly shuffling cables.

Best 4K gaming monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q

Best Monitors for Xbox Series X

Asus

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Why it made the cut: The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q is a great entry-level 4K monitor that strikes a balance between quality and cost.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160p)
  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz
  • Size: 28 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • 4K
  • Great value

Cons

  • Middling HDR

Playing games running at 120fps sounds exciting on paper, but realistically, you’re looking at diminishing returns at higher and higher frame rates. The debate is still open on the ceiling for what the human eye can perceive. However, 60fps is the current gold standard for silky smooth precision gaming and will be more than enough for all but the most hardcore competitive gamers looking to eke out every possible marginal advantage. The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q delivers excellent, color-accurate 4K graphics at a steady and still-reasonable 60Hz. While less than perfect for the Series X on paper, many games still run at 60fps in 4K, making this a perfectly reasonable compromise.

Best TV: LG C2 evo OLED 

Why it made the cut: If cost is not a concern, LG’s OLED TVs are the gold standard for incredible image quality with no compromise in responsiveness.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160p)
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Size: 48 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (4), USB 2.0 (3)
  • Panel Type: OLED
  • HDR: Yes

Pros

  • 120Hz on a TV
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Incredible blacks and color range
  • Wide viewing angles

Cons

  • Very expensive compared to monitors
  • Burn-in risk

All of the monitors on our list feature LCD technology, which requires a backlight, but the next generation of screens is starting to shift over to new display technology. An organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, display lights each pixel independently, allowing for brighter colors and rich, perfect blacks. If you want an OLED display right now, you need a TV, not a monitor.

LG’s C2 OLED is realistically the best TV for gaming right now. It features all of the top specs you need to get the most out of the Series X, including 4K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDMI 2.1 ports so you can achieve those specs. Our top monitor, the Phillips Momentum, is just as big as a TV. The LG C2 is sort of the opposite side of the same coin: a TV with many of the technical advantages you’d find in an Xbox-friendly monitor.

Best curved: Samsung Odyssey G7

A Samsung Odyssey G7 overall best curved monitor showing bright graphics

SAMSUNG

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G7 delivers a great picture and outstanding value.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1440p (2560×1440)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0(1), DisplayPort 1.4 (2), USB-A (3), USB-B (1)
  • Panel type: QLED
  • HDR: Yes

Pros

  • Deep, immersive curve
  • Crisp 1440p resolution
  • An esports-grade 240Hz refresh rate
  • QLED panel ensures high brightness and contrast

Cons

  • Curved monitors reflect more light

Curved monitors aren’t exactly mainstream, but they’re gaining in popularity thanks to their ability to offer a unique experience—ultrawide models are especially for gaming. The Samsung Odyssey 7 is a 1440p 27-inch display with a 240Hz maximum refresh rate, HDR support, and an HDMI 2.1 port. The Xbox Series X can take advantage of all these features. The main reason to consider the Odyssey G7 is its curve, which allows the screen to take up more of your peripheral vision. A curved display will reflect more light, so you should think twice about picking this display up if you game in a room that gets a lot of sun.

Samsung’s decision to build the Odyssey 7 with a QLED panel and HDR ensures you’ll get more realistic colors in games designed with high dynamic range in mind. Another core strength of this monitor is its wide array of ports. This will typically only benefit folks who use this monitor with a PC and one console, but it’s something to keep in mind. The ability to use the Odyssey G7 as a USB hub in addition to a display shouldn’t be discounted. We selected this display as the best curved monitor of 2023 and feel it’s an excellent choice for Xbox gamers who’d like to give this type of screen a shot.

There are bigger, brighter monitors on the market, including several from Samsung: the 32-inch Odyssey G7 Neo, which offers an incredible 2000 nits of peak brightness, the 4K-enabled 16:9 Samsung Odyssey G8, and, if you have a gaming desk with space for an ultrawide display, the luxury Samsung Odyssey OLED G8. You can really level up that battlestation with this 34-inch 21:9 Ultra-WQHD screen supporting 0.03ms response times, 175Hz, FreeSync VRR support with G-SYNC compatibility, and DisplayHDR True Black 400 levels. The Neo G8 has more resolution (good for streaming content) and a higher refresh rate/lower lag for competitive gaming. In a dark environment, however, the OLED G8 offers amazing contrast with impossibly inky blacks and smoother motion handling, making it both perfect for productivity and very console-friendly.

Those are notable upgrades but come with much steeper price tags ($1,000 on average). For many players, the $500 QLED Odyssey G7 is more than enough to achieve peak performance without overspending.

Best budget: Gigabyte AORUS FV43U

Best monitors for Xbox Series X

Gigabyte

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Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte Aorus FV43U hits all the same performance benchmarks as our top choice, but for substantially less money.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160p)
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 43 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2) DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-C (1)
  • Panel Type: VA
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 1000

Pros

  • 4K/144Hz
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Great HDR and accurate color
  • Low price for the spec and size

Cons

  • Narrow viewing angles
  • Fixed stand

The Gigabyte Aorus FV43U is an incredible deal among the small number of HDMI 2.1-compatible monitors available right now. Like our top choice, it has a 144Hz refresh rate, 4K resolution, and a VA panel with fantastic contrast and color gamut, making them functionally equivalent in many situations. At 43 inches, it also sits squarely between monitor- and TV-sized displays, which is great if you want a big screen but may be a problem if you want to adjust your monitor’s viewing angle the way you would with a standard PC monitor. User reviews also suggest that its colors get a little washed out as you move away from the center. That said, those are relatively wonky caveats on a monitor that costs hundreds of dollars less than our top pick.

What to consider when buying the best monitors for Xbox Series X

Microsoft’s long history with PCs and PC gaming means that the Xbox Series X is probably better equipped to work with most gaming monitors than any other console, past or present. While most monitors will technically work with the Series X, not all can support its full capabilities. Microsoft has helpfully added monitors to its Designed for Xbox hardware partnership program, which highlights gear that’s fully certified to work with it, but that only covers a tiny fraction of the compatible monitors available on the market. Premium graphics tend to come at a premium price, so if you can’t shell out more than the cost of the console itself for a top-tier display, you should primarily decide whether you care more about resolution or frame rate, which broadly map onto whether you care more about sharper visuals or smoother gameplay. 

What is HDMI 2.1?

As many of the best gaming monitors can attest, the PC gaming community continues to shift toward DisplayPort cables for your monitor connectivity needs. It’s worth noting because the Xbox Series X (and PlayStation 5) ideally call for HDMI 2.1, the latest iteration of the ubiquitous HDMI cable. 

Despite the fact that the connectors look the same as older iterations of HDMI, HDMI 2.1 greatly increases how much data moves from computer to screen. HDMI 2.0 offers a maximum data transmission rate of 18 gigabits per second, allowing you to output video and games in 4K resolution at 60Hz, or in 1080p resolution at up to 240Hz. With HDMI 2.1, the maximum jumps up to 48 Gbp/s, allowing computers—including game consoles—to play 4K video at up to 180Hz, or in 8K at 50Hz.

For the Xbox Series X in particular, HDMI 2.1 gives you the chance to play games in 4K resolution at up to 120fps. Not every new game supports that high spec, but a growing list of modern Xbox games can make it happen. The Series X and all of these monitors are also compatible with older HDMI monitors and cables, but the display won’t be able to show games running above 60fps in 4K. 

While Microsoft claims the Xbox Series X hardware can handle 8K gameplay, the console doesn’t support 8K gameplay. Microsoft has promised to unlock 8K in the indeterminate future, which will require a frame rate trade-off even with HDMI 2.1. 

Aspect ratio and resolution

Speaking of 4K and 8K, let’s talk about the size and shape of your monitor. Generally speaking, we recommend picking a monitor’s size based on the resolution you plan to use for your games. Since the Xbox Series X outputs at 4K resolution, you’re ideally going to get a big monitor: 32 inches or more.

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on screen, with higher resolutions being capable of more fine-grained detail and smoothness. Unlike the limited monitor resolution options on the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X supports an impressively wide range of resolutions: Standard HD (1280 x 720 pixels), (confusingly also named) Standard HD (1920 x 1080 pixels), Quad HD (2560 × 1440 pixels), and Ultra HD/4K (3840 x 2160 pixels). 

Unlike with TVs, 4K is not ubiquitous on PC monitors. In fact, a large 4K monitor will be quite expensive. If resolution isn’t your top priority, sacrificing 4K and going with a 1440p/144Hz monitor for the best possible performance without sinking a ton of money into your new display.

If you’re planning to buy a monitor for playing console games, you should stick to a conventional aspect ratio. Aspect ratio refers to the proportion between length and width of the screen, defining standard shapes at which content can be created and scaled. The Xbox Series X only outputs at 16:6 “widescreen,” the most common aspect ratio used in contemporary screens. Although curved 21:9 “ultrawide” monitors are a growing niche among enthusiast PC gamers, it’s still too small a niche to merit Microsoft’s support yet.

Refresh rate, response time, and input lag

When judging how smoothly a game animates, frame rate is king. Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), determines the highest possible frame rate at which a game “runs.” More precisely, it refers to the number of times per second a monitor can “draw” an image on your screen. Even if a console is powerful enough for a game to run at 120 frames per second and the game supports that spec, you won’t be able to see it unless the monitor can refresh at that speed.

Frame rate rarely matters for TV and film, which are still traditionally filmed at 24fps, but frame rate matters quite a bit in games, which is why TV manufacturers have started to make more high-frame-rate TVs in 2023. In a video game, more frames translate into smoother animation and, often, more information. Being able to more quickly and subtly perceive motion can give you an edge in action-oriented games, especially when playing against other people online. During the PS4 and Xbox One era, frame rates between 30fps and 60fps were the standard. The PS5 and Xbox Series X have now raised the bar to between 60fps and 120fps.

Thus, in order to get the most out of your console, you’re going to want a monitor with a max refresh rate of 120Hz or higher. As with resolution, there are other options available aimed at PC players. You can find monitors that go up to 240Hz or even an absurd 360Hz, which really pushes the border of what the human eye can perceive. The Xbox Series X caps the frame rate at 120fps, though, so don’t pay for frames you don’t need. The most common refresh rate to meet the 120fps standard is 144Hz, so that’s what you’re looking for.

Variable refresh rate

Variable refresh rate has become a major technology for gaming displays, allowing the monitor to smoothly ramp the frame rate up and down to match computational performance. It allows for consistently crisp graphics and fewer visual artifacts, especially when there is a lot of fast motion, which happens a lot in video games. The two primary graphics card manufacturers, Nvidia and AMD, both have their own versions of variable refresh rate technology: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. The Xbox Series X support FreeSync, so you want to keep an eye out for FreeSync monitors and, in many cases, avoid G-Sync monitors, as they tend to be more expensive.

What about HDR?

The Xbox Series X also supports one of the latest in-vogue display technologies: High Dynamic Range, or HDR. HDR creates a wider range of in-game darkness and light on 4K monitors with high brightness and color contrast. HDR monitors are brighter overall, with richer, more accurate colors and more nuance in both shadows and bright areas, making images pop more overall. 

To create that enhanced brightness, you need a very bright display—so HDR can be a strength or a weakness for any modern display. Some monitors technically feature HDR support but lack the maximum brightness to create a true range of lighting conditions. When considering a monitor’s HDR, you want to check its brightness settings: Look for a maximum brightness of at least 500 to 600 nits, ideally with a feature called full-array local dimming, which determines how much the monitor can change the brightness of specific parts of the screen.

In addition to supporting HDR10—the most common, open standard that PC monitors use almost exclusively—the Xbox Series X is also the first console to support Dolby Vision, which is a proprietary alternative HDR standard that’s slightly better than HDR10 by virtue of being “dynamic” (basically including more data by tweaking brightness and contrast frame by frame). For now, this only really applies to televisions, however, as Dolby Vision is extremely rare among monitors, and those that do are geared toward photo and video work, not gaming.

FAQs

Q: How much does a monitor for Xbox Series X cost?

The Xbox Series X supports a wider range of monitor specs than any other console, current or previous, with 1080p, 1440p, 4K+, and 30fps to 120fps. That means the cost varies quite a bit as well. Our list spans from around $1,500 at the high end to $300 at the budget end, but you could go even lower still, closer to $200 if you wanted a still-solid 1080p high-frame-rate monitor. 

Q: Is HDR good for gaming?

Yes, the way good HDR makes visuals really pop is just as applicable to games as it is to movies and television. The Series X is also arguably the most HDR-friendly console to date, with automatic calibration, retroactive addition to backward-compatible titles, console-first Dolby Vision compatibility. 

Q: Is a curved monitor better for gaming?

“Better” is really a matter of taste, but the advantages people associate with curved monitors—reduced eye strain, more integrated peripheral vision, enhanced “immersion”—all map well to the priorities of gaming. That said, the Xbox Series X does not support any aspect ratio wider than 16:9, so players will not be able to really use a curved monitor as intended. As such, we do not recommend buying a curved monitor to use with an Xbox Series X (or any console, for that matter).

Q: Is a 4K monitor worth it for Xbox Series X?

Yes. The Xbox Series X is able to play some games at a native resolution of 4K. Titles that support that resolution will look far sharper than they would at full HD (1080P). The extra resolution won’t hurt if you use the monitor with your computer for work, as it’ll give you a larger digital workspace to work with.

Q: Can Xbox Series X hit 144Hz?

No. The Xbox Series X tops out at 120Hz.

Q: Is a 32-inch monitor too big for gaming?

No. Many gamers play Xbox Series X games on a television as large as 65 inches (sometimes more). Most computer monitors aren’t that large, but a 32-inch monitor will provide a better gaming experience than smaller ones if they both have the same technical specs.

Final thoughts on the best monitors for Xbox Series X

Chip shortages once meant that the Xbox Series X, like the PS5, was a precious commodity more than a year into its lifecycle. The global supply chain finally stabilized, and now the world is next-gen gaming to its heart’s content, so it would be a real waste not to have a display that is up to the task. Fortunately, Microsoft supports a generous range of display specifications on the Series X, so once you’ve sorted out your budget and priorities, the perfect monitor is just out there waiting for you.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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]]> Get slashed savings on The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/nintendo-switch-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-amazon-deal/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=564757
Copies of the legend of zelda tears of the kingdom on a white background
Amanda Reed

Be your own Hero of Time by spending hours playing this award-winning game, which is $20 off its $70 price tag.

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Copies of the legend of zelda tears of the kingdom on a white background
Amanda Reed

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If you were holding out on getting the latest The Legend of Zelda title because of price, today is your lucky day: A copy can be yours for just $50 on Amazon, around $20 off its regular $69.99 pricing.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom $48.95 (Was $69.99)

A copy of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on a blue and white background

Nintendo

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As someone who owns and has played this game … you are definitely missing out if you don’t. You’ll find great joy in learning the new game mechanics and diving into the plot—literally, you’re skydiving in this game. You don’t even need to play Breath of the Wild, its predecessor, to appreciate the story and gameplay (although your playthrough will be much more informed if you do). Did we mention that both games feature a hot fish prince?

If you’re familiar with the franchise, you know the drill. But if you don’t: Zelda is in trouble. Ganon/Ganondorf* is up to no good. It’s up to Link, the Hero of Time, thee Hylian Champion, to defeat Ganon(dorf) and his monstrous cronies to stop darkness from descending over Hyrule and save Zelda.

*Ganon is the god; Ganondorf is Ganon in human form. You’re welcome.

Of course, you’ll need a Switch console to play the game. For bang for your buck, we prefer the OG model over the Switch Lite or OLED version, but all are venerable options if you play primarily handheld. And, if you’re typically a digital game-only person, you might want to put preferences aside for now: only the physical copy of the game is on sale.

This deal is sure to disappear, much like Zelda in almost every iteration of the franchise. She returns by the end of the game, but we’re not sure if this deal will reappear, even after a long, arduous journey, so grab Tears of the Kingdom to avoid shedding tears of frustration.

Here are other gaming goodies on sale, and it’s not a secret to everybody:

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]]> Save $150 when you bundle a Sony TV and PS5 during Amazon’s back-to-school sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/sony-tv-ps5-bundle-amazon-deal/ Tue, 22 Aug 2023 16:56:13 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=564368
A PS5 and Sony Television bundle on a pink gradient background
Amanda Reed

No birds were hurt in the making of this deal at Amazon.

The post Save $150 when you bundle a Sony TV and PS5 during Amazon’s back-to-school sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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A PS5 and Sony Television bundle on a pink gradient background
Amanda Reed

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Modern humans multitask. “Kill two birds with one stone” is one of the most popular adages of our time because we’re often always doing two things at once. Brushing your teeth while rounding up the kids? Listening to a podcast on the treadmill? Upgrading your TV when you buy a PlayStation 5 at Amazon? They all count.

Sony OLED 55-inch BRAVIA XR A80L Series 4K Ultra HD TV with Playstation 5 Console $1,847.99 (Was $2,399.98)

A Sony TV and a PS5 bundled on a blue and white background

Sony

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If you’re looking for a TV that will make the games on your new console shine, look no further than the BRAVIA XR A80L. A Cognitive Processor XR gives you dynamic contrast, detailed blacks, natural colors, and high peak brightness. It makes pretty pictures and is pretty smart too, thanks to built-in Google TV and support for Apple AirPlay and Alexa. A Game Menu lets you put gaming picture settings in one place, and features like Auto Genre Picture Mode optimizes your PS5 graphics. You’ll really feel the future nature apocalypse setting of Horizon: Forbidden West. The bundle deal applies to X90L series: 55”/65”/75”/85”; A80L series: 55”/65”/77”/83”; and X93L series: 65”/75”/85”.

If you’re just looking for a TV, the LG QNED80 Series 86-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV is 29% off, bringing the price down from $2,799.99 to $1,996.99. The a7 AI Processor Gen6 uses AI to detect what you’re watching to improve picture and sound quality, making it perfect for gaming or streaming.

If you’re looking to turn your TV smart, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a whopping 51% off, down to $26.99 from $54.99. It’s 40% more powerful than the Fire TV Stick 4K, which is $49.99. More power for less? The math adds up for us.

The Sony TV and PlayStation 5 bundle deal ends Sept. 4, so take advantage of it before back-to-school season.

Here are other television deals at Amazon we’re watching:

The post Save $150 when you bundle a Sony TV and PS5 during Amazon’s back-to-school sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> The PlayStation 5 is cheaper than ever on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/playstation-5-amazon-deal/ Thu, 10 Aug 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=562252
Xbox Series X vs PS5
Mike Epstein

Sony's next-gen. gaming console is $50 cheaper than usual.

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Xbox Series X vs PS5
Mike Epstein

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It wasn’t long ago that finding a PlayStation 5 for its retail price was nearly impossible. Limited quantities allowed resellers to crank up the cost on the secondary market for more than a year after its release. However, it’s now cheaper than ever, thanks to a $50 discount on Amazon. This deal brings the system down to $449 and will only be available while supplies last.

PlayStation 5 $449 (Was $499)

Sony PlayStation 5

Sony

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The PlayStation 5’s popularity comes down to its games. The 4K game console plays the latest and greatest titles from popular franchises like Madden and Call of Duty and exclusives from the Uncharted and God of War universes. We recommend this PlayStation with the built-in optical drive because it lets you play new and used disc-based PS5 and PS4 games plus 4K Blu-rays so you can watch your favorite movies in the highest-possible fidelity. You can orient the system vertically or horizontally, and while it is on the large side (15.4 x 10.24 x 4.1 x inches), it’ll still fit into most entertainment centers.

If you’ve been holding off on buying a PlayStation 5 until the initial hype wore down—or it was possible to snag one at its normal price—your patience has been rewarded. We don’t see this deal lasting very long, so if you’re interested in picking up the system for yourself or as a very early gift for the holidays, now’s your chance.

Other Sony deals to help get your game on

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]]> The best curved monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-curved-monitors/ Fri, 24 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450439
The best curved monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

A curved screen can improve your PC setup’s ergonomics and enhance gaming immersion.

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The best curved monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall A Samsung Odyssey G7 overall best curved monitor showing bright graphics Samsung Odyssey G7
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The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredible valuable display with a bright QLED panel, deep 1000R curve, and elite gaming speed.
Best for gaming An Alienware curved gaming monitor with a red screen at an angle Dell Alienware AW3423DW
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The Alienware AW3423DW brings the sharper contrast of an OLED display to PC gaming.
Best for work A Dell curved monitor with a landscape screensaver helps professional productivity Dell UltraSharp U3421WE
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The Dell UltraSharp U3421WE gives you an ultrawide workspace to make you more productive.

Whether you’re gaming or taking on a big project at work, upgrading to a curved monitor can elevate your computing experience. While using one feels a bit different, and may not be for everyone, an increasing number of people swear by them. The graceful arc of a curved display draws you further into the experience, increasing your immersion and blocking out distractions. The best curved monitors feature all the impressive specs and features of any other display while bringing a few unique tricks all their own.

How we chose the best curved monitors

I’ve worked in gaming and tech journalism since 2013. During that time, I’ve evaluated a wide range of monitors, from affordable flat panels to luxurious curved ultrawides. Covering displays and computers for sites like IGN, Reviewed, and Tom’s Hardware, I’ve built a deep understanding of what makes a monitor great.

Our selections for the best curved monitors are the product of extensive testing and research. Beyond testing and reviewing many of these monitors, I took a deep look at the most important specs: screen size, resolution, refresh rate, response time, and the core features that separate a great display from a basic one. I also turned to reviews from experts and impressions from real customers to see how they stacked up in dedicated performance tests and real-world scenarios.

The best curved monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you have a good handle on the monitor-buying basics, let’s talk about the best curved monitors you can buy. Even with all the knowledge we’ve shared, finding the best curved monitor may still feel like a daunting task. Our picks, selected through testing and extensive research, are a great place to start (and end) your search.

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G7

A Samsung Odyssey G7 overall best curved monitor showing bright graphics

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G7 delivers a great picture and outstanding value.

Specs

  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Curve: 1000R
  • Resolution: 2560×1440 
  • Panel type: QLED
  • Brightness/HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms

Pros

  • Deep, immersive curve
  • Crisp 1440p resolution
  • An esports-grade 240Hz refresh rate
  • QLED panel ensures high brightness and contrast

Cons

  • 1000R curve may be too deep for some people
  • Expensive

The Samsung Odyssey G7 is a performance powerhouse that provides surprisingly incredible value. It isn’t cheap, but you’d be hard-pressed to find another curved monitor that brings so much value to the table. Its vivid, Quantum Dot-enhanced picture enables exceptional brightness and contrast, winning it a DisplayHDR 600 rating. Colors pop on this display, and you can make out more detail in the screen’s dark and bright areas.

The G7 is definitely a gaming-first display. Its deep 1000R curve covers more peripheral vision, enhancing your immersion. Pushing 1440p resolution at up to 240Hz, you’ll get a perfect pairing of crisp visuals and high frame rates. Motion blur will be less of an issue on the Odyssey, giving you the edge to one-up the competition.

There are bigger, brighter monitors on the market, including several from Samsung: the 32-inch Odyssey G7 Neo, which offers an incredible 2000 nits of peak brightness, the 4K-enabled 16:9 Samsung Odyssey G8, and, if you have a gaming desk with space for an ultrawide display, the luxury Samsung Odyssey OLED G8. You can really level up that battlestation with this 34-inch 21:9 Ultra-WQHD screen supporting 0.03ms response times, 175Hz, FreeSync VRR support with G-SYNC compatibility, and DisplayHDR True Black 400 levels. The Neo G8 has more resolution (good for streaming content) and a higher refresh rate/lower lag for competitive gaming. In a dark environment, however, the OLED G8 offers amazing contrast with impossibly inky blacks and smoother motion handling, making it both perfect for productivity and very console-friendly.

Those are notable upgrades but come with much steeper price tags ($1,000 on average). For many players, the $500 QLED Odyssey G7 is more than enough to allow systems to hit peak performance without overspending.

Best for gaming: Dell Alienware AW3423DW

An Alienware curved gaming monitor with a red screen at an angle

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Alienware AW3423DW’s fast, color-rich OLED screen makes games look better than ever; it’s expensive but very impressive.

Specs

  • Screen size: 34.18-inch (Ultrawide)
  • Curve: 1800R
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: QD-OLED
  • Brightness/HDR: 1000-nit peak brightness (DisplayHDR 400 True Black)
  • Refresh rate: 175Hz
  • Response time: 0.1ms

Pros

  • QD-OLED panel enables incredible contrast and sharpness
  • 1000-nits peak brightness
  • Quantum dots for rich, accurate colors
  • G-Sync Ultimate

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Doesn’t work well with PS5
  • No HDMI 2.1 ports

The Alienware AW3423DW is a rare curved display indeed. It features a Quantum Dot-enhanced OLED panel. Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays feature “self-emitting” backlighting, where each pixel is individually backlit and independently controlled. This allows for incredible contrast, including “true” blacks. Standard OLED screens are known for lacking the brightness of conventional displays, but Quantum Dot technology enhances the screen’s inherent brightness, allowing the AW3423DW to hit an HDR-bright 1000 nits. It only achieves that maximum brightness in small spots on the monitor but is still more than capable of generating quality HDR gameplay.

You won’t have to worry about artifacts dragging down your gaming experience with the AW3423DW. With a ridiculously fast 0.1ms response time, ghosting just isn’t an issue for this display. A 175Hz refresh rate and Nvidia’s G-Sync Ultimate certification ensure excellent picture quality without screen tearing.

It isn’t perfect, though. The AW3423DW has a small number of flaws, particularly for console players who’d pair it with a PlayStation 5. It lacks HDMI 2.1, for example, so it can’t play games in 4K at 120Hz over HDMI cable. It also can’t downscale 4K content, so the PS5 can only run in 1080p on the monitor. (Luckily, there are monitors particularly well-suited to PS5.)

The Alienware AW3423DW is one of a few OLED gaming monitors in 2023. As a result, the distinctive, high-performance panel comes with a very steep price tag. If you’re a PC player who wants to see the sharpest possible picture on a monitor, though, it is worth it.

Best for work: Dell UltraSharp U3421WE

A Dell curved monitor with a landscape screensaver helps professional productivity

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE can replace multiple monitors and comes with productivity-enhancing features

Specs

  • Screen size: 34.1-inch (Ultrawide)
  • Curve: 1900R
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Brightness/HDR: 300 nits
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 8ms

Pros

  • Connects via USB-C
  • Built-in KVM lets you switch between two PCs with one mouse and keyboard
  • Useful software quickly divides screen space
  • Remembers window positions between uses

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Low brightness

Looking to replace your multi-monitor setup for work with a single ultrawide monitor? The 34-inch Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE is as tall as a standard 27-inch monitor and provides roughly eight inches of extra width on either side, so you have plenty of space to work. It also features some productivity-enhancing software that can partition that space into 38 different configurations for up to five windows. You’ll be able to see everything you need to work quickly and efficiently. When you’re done for the day, the software can re-open those windows, allowing you to pick up right where you left off. 

It isn’t uncommon for monitors to feature a couple of extra USB ports for your peripherals, but the U3421WE not only connects via USB-C but it also doubles as a bona fide USB-C hub. It features two USB-C ports, one of which empowers you to connect and charge a laptop. There are also a whopping five USB 3.0 ports (one upstream and four downstream), to connect all of your peripherals and transfer large files. There’s even an Ethernet port to connect to your office’s network. 

It may not be quite as wide as two 27-inch monitors, but the Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE makes a strong case for optimizing a professional home office with a curved ultrawide display.

Best 4K: Gigabyte M32UC

A Gigabyte curved monitor with a rainbow background

Gigabyte

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Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32UC is a big screen with a crisp 4K picture and features to spare.

Specs

  • Screen size: 31.5-inch 
  • Curve: 1500R
  • Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: SuperSpeed VA
  • Brightness/HDR: DisplayHDR 400
  • Refresh rate: 160Hz
  • Response time: 1ms 

Pros

  • Crisp 4K visuals in a large viewing area
  • Fast refresh rate
  • Great color coverage
  • Built-in KVM

Cons

  • Limited HDR performance
  • Minor ghosting without overdrive

Curved 4K monitors usually get expensive quickly, and the Gigabyte M32UC balances performance, features, and price better than most displays out there. It isn’t cheap by any stretch, but you get a color-rich gaming display with a ton of great features in return. You may have to adjust a couple of settings to make the most of it, but once you do, you’ll see that it’s a hidden gem among ultrawide gaming monitors.

SuperSpeed VA panel. Unlike traditional VA panels, the M32UC’s SuperSpeed VA panel gives it an unexpectedly low 1ms response time. It’s also fast, with a 160Hz refresh rate, which is high for a 4K display. With 93% DCI-P3 wide color gamut and 123% sRGB, it offers incredible color depth and accuracy, which is great for creatives. If you’d like to connect to a second PC for streaming or home office use, it also features a built-in KVM to swap your peripherals between devices quickly. The monitor also features a full suite of competitive gaming features, like a “Black Equalizer” that helps you peek into shadows, and an FPS monitor that can overlay on any game.

There are some important trade-offs with the M32UC that you should know before you buy in. First, with 8-bit color and only 400 nits of brightness, it can’t really handle HDR gameplay. Some users have also reported minor ghosting with Overdrive disabled, but that’s a quick fix within its settings menu. Even with these shortcomings, the M32UC is an outstanding choice if you’re shopping for a 4K monitor with an immersive curve.

Best ultrawide: LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B doesn’t come cheap, but its spacious Nano IPS screen is a joy to behold.

Specs

  • Screen size: 34-inch (Ultrawide)
  • Curve: 1900R
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: Nano IPS
  • Brightness/HDR: DisplayHDR 600
  • Refresh rate: 180Hz 
  • Response time: 1ms

Pros

  • 10-bit color and DisplayHDR 600 certification
  • Rapid refresh rate adds smoothness to games
  • G-Sync Ultimate certified (FreeSync also supported)

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Low IPS contrast

Gamers who have taken the leap already know: A great ultrawide monitor can take your gaming experience to the next level. That’s certainly the case with the expansive LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B, which delivers a crisp 3440×1440 picture empowered by LG’s Nano IPS panel. A proprietary LG display technology, Nano IPS displays feature a coating of nanoparticles on the backlight that expand their color gamut to an incredibly vibrant 98% of the DCI-P3 color space, or roughly 135% of sRGB. 

Somehow, professional-grade color accuracy and gaming-grade speed go hand-in-hand. LG quotes a 1ms response time on its “faster” preset, dramatically reducing the chance for visible ghosting. Meanwhile, its perfectly respectable 144Hz refresh rate can be overclocked to hit an impressive 180Hz for competitive play. It’s also Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate certified so you can count on fluid gameplay without a hint of screen tearing.

The UltraGear 34GP950G-B is certified by VESA for DisplayHDR 600 high dynamic range. It has a higher peak brightness of 600 nits and true 10-bit color so that you can make out more detail in the shadows and highlights. Its HDR tech comes with a local dimming feature, but critics found it to be too distracting to actually use. Since it also uses an IPS panel, contrast levels are also low, which makes blacks look dark gray in dark rooms. Even with local dimming turned off, there’s little room to argue with how good this monitor truly is.

Best budget: AOC G2 Series C27G2Z

An AOC curved monitor saves you money while getting you in the game

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC G2 Series C27G2Z offers a lot for little. It costs less than $250 but still delivers strong performance.

Specs

  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Curve: 1500R
  • Resolution: 1920×1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Brightness/HDR: 250 nits 
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 0.5ms

Pros

  • Large screen
  • 240Hz refresh rate 
  • Good VA contrast
  • Good color coverage

Cons

  • Low brightness
  • No HDR
  • Low pixel density

If you’re on a limited budget, the AOC G2 Series C27G2Z is easily one of best curved monitors for under $300. It offers a handful of key features that make it an incredible value at a price point where you rarely find any. Its 27-inch screen is large enough to make good use of its 1500R curve, taking up more of your field of view and drawing you further into your entertainment experiences.

Now, a 27-inch, 1080p screen stretches its pixels a bit thin, but not dramatically. If you’d prefer to go smaller to maintain the screen’s sharpness, the 24-inch, 165Hz AOC C24G1A is our favorite curved gaming monitor under $200.

The C27G2Z is also quite a capable gaming monitor. It features a rapid 240Hz refresh rate—fast enough for competitive esports. Response time is also excellent at 0.5ms in its fastest mode, but you should plan on turning this down a touch for the best image quality—but with 0.5ms to start, there’s responsiveness to spare. Color coverage is also impressive at 90% of the DCI-P3 color space so that hues will look deeper and more saturated.

Unfortunately, the C27G2Z scrapes the bottom of the barrel with peak brightness and has a luminance of only 250 nits. That’s fine for most games, but you’ll want to position it away from direct sunlight. HDR is also out of the question, but these are fair trade-offs considering its price.

Things to consider before buying a curved monitor

Once a niche offshoot of conventional PC displays, the curved monitor has become an increasingly popular gaming and office work option. Going for a curved monitor adds a couple of extra specs to the long list of considerations you want to keep in mind when buying any monitor. We’ll walk you through the basics, so you can make your own decision when you’re ready to choose curved monitors.

Setting the curve

The big difference between picking a curved display and a standard flat panel is the curve itself. Just like the size of the monitor, the depth of the display’s arc varies from model to model.

The arc of a curved display is measured using the distance from the outer edge of the screen to its center. That number, measured in millimeters, is expressed as the monitor’s Radius (R) and indicates the recommended viewing distance to experience that curve’s benefits fully. The lower the radius, the deeper the curve of the monitor vs. flat. The deeper the curve, the more immersive your viewing experience will feel.

Curvatures range from a gentle 3000R bend to minimize how often you twist your neck to a noticeable curve that can enhance the immersive qualities of first-person games. Some gaming monitors drop down to 1000R. As this excellent explainer from Viewsonic describes, 1000R is the same curve as the human eye and should theoretically feel most “correct,” though such a deep curve can also be the hardest to adapt to.

Curved monitors are an acquired taste. It’s hard to know whether you’ll like a curved monitor, or what curve arc you’ll prefer without seeing them in person. Pictures just can’t replace the experience of sitting before one and seeing what each curve feels like for yourself. We recommend stopping by the electronics section of your retailer to see for yourself. If that’s not possible, be sure to buy from a retailer with a friendly return and exchange process.

Resolution

Beyond the curve’s arc, there’s no major difference between picking a curved monitor and any other. There are three core specs that we look at first when picking any PC display: resolution, screen size, and refresh rate.

Resolution refers to how many pixels your display uses to generate an image. All other things being equal, a higher resolution enables a sharper, more detailed image. Manufacturers currently stick to three primary resolutions for all widescreen (16:9) monitors: The baseline is 1920 x 1080 pixels, more commonly known as 1080p. The middle option, which we frequently recommend for gaming, is 2560 x 1440 pixels (you may see manufacturers call this 1440p, or QHD). Lastly, you have 3840 x 2160 pixels, also known as 4K. Unlike TVs, where 4K has become the standard, 4K monitors are still luxury and usually expensive.

If you plan on using your monitor for gaming, remember that higher resolutions require more powerful hardware to run well. If you’re a gamer but aren’t sure what resolution will work best for you, download and run a selection of the best benchmarks to grasp your system’s performance better.

Screen size

Curved displays aim to take up more of your peripheral vision, so unlike conventional widescreen monitors, we recommend going with the largest display that feels comfortable for you.

That recommendation comes with a caveat: There is a correlation between screen size and resolution. Larger displays need more pixels to achieve the same level of sharpness as their smaller counterparts. So, while a larger screen will enhance the benefits of using a curved display,  we only recommend you do so if you can also afford to scale up to 1440p or 4K for a screen above 27 inches.

With curved displays in particular, it also makes sense to consider whether you’d be interested in the standard, 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio, or a 21:9 ultrawide monitor. Ultrawide monitors extend the horizontal viewing area without making the display taller than a traditional display, which pushes the edges of the screen closer to your peripheral vision. Since curved displays work best when they extend to the outer edges of your field of view, the ultrawide form factor enhances the benefits of a curved panel. Pairing the two unconventional form factors often leads to a more expensive display, but a large curved ultrawide creates enough screen space to replace two monitors in most setups. It’s expensive, but a unique pleasure.

Refresh rate

For gaming, refresh rate often feels just as important as screen size and resolution. Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), refers to how many times the screen updates the image on screen each second. Productivity monitors usually stick to basic 60Hz-75Hz, since smooth animation isn’t considered a priority. For gaming, however, a higher refresh rate allows games to run at a higher frame rate, making them look smoother and reducing motion blur. 

In general, we look for gaming monitors with a 144Hz refresh rate or higher. For office work, a little bump to refresh rate is a nice luxury, but not a crucial feature.

Panel type

The physical screen panel can impact a monitor’s color accuracy, contrast, and responsiveness. Aside from a few exceptions—some of which you’ll see on this list—monitors rely on one of three panel types:

In-Plane Switching, or IPS, panels have the best colors and widest viewing angles of the three types. Because of this, they have become a staple in the creative industries and are a popular choice for digital artists. At the same time, IPS panels typically have slower response times and low contrast.

Twisted Nematic, or TN, panels are traditionally regarded as the “fastest” monitor panels because they generally introduce less input lag. Their high performance comes at the expense of color accuracy and viewing angles, so images may not look as vivid as they would on a VA or IPS panel. Manufacturers have closed the gap in response time between TN panels and the others, so you really only see them in very cheap displays, or esports monitors with extremely high refresh rates.

Vertical Alignment, or VA, panels are the middle ground between IPS and TN, offering a balance between deep color and high speed. VA panels also benefit from superior contrast. While a great IPS panel may have a 1000:1 contrast ratio, many VA panels triple that and come in at 3000:1. Blacks are typically much darker on VA panels and are a better fit for use in low-light environments. 

While panel type impacts your monitor’s picture, the impact of using one panel type vs. another is usually quite small. They are a general indication of how a monitor may perform, but the nuances of a monitor’s color depth are usually best judged with the naked eye. (Or, if you’re a creative pro, using a colorimeter.)

HDR and brightness

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is one of the most popular display standards available today. In a nutshell, HDR content leverages new display technologies to display a much wider range of colors and brightness levels, capturing more vivid colors and enabling your monitor to depict a wider range of light and shadow in a single image. 

Judging whether a monitor supports HDR content or not is a surprisingly contentious issue. To really see HDR as intended, your monitor needs to be capable of getting very bright, so it can show both high- and low-light situations. Many PC monitors technically can serve HDR content, but can’t get bright enough to properly display it. For most PC monitors—32 inches or smaller—we look for a maximum brightness of 600 or higher. On larger screens, including TVs, you really want 1000 nits or more. Monitors that support HDR, but fail to reach those marks will appear brighter in HDR mode, but will not change how an image is lit. HDR also requires advanced color depth, so be sure the display you’re looking at also supports 10-bit color or higher. 

HDR-enabled monitors make it easy to check their maximum brightness, as they feature a DisplayHDR certification from the Video Electronics Standards Association, commonly known as VESA. The DisplayHDR rating system includes the monitor’s maximum brightness as part of its rating—which ranges from HDR400 (400 nits) to HDR1400 (1400 nits).

FAQs

Q: Are curved monitors actually better?

Many users believe curved monitors can be better for your eyes and experience, but it really comes down to personal taste. There are two reasons for using a curved monitor. First, when sitting the proper distance from the screen, a curved display can minimize the number of times you turn your head, thus reducing neck strain.

Second, gamers may appreciate that the screen takes up more of your field of view, immersing you in the on-screen action. It feels especially impactful in first-person experiences, where a curved ultrawide screen may allow you to use your peripheral vision.

In both cases, the impact will feel substantial to some and insignificant to others. For the right person, though, it makes for a substantial upgrade.

Q: What are the pros and cons of a curved monitor?

The biggest benefit that curved monitors offer is their immersive viewing experience. The arc of the screen takes up more of your field of view and adds depth that flat monitors can’t provide. When properly positioned, you can see and do more than is possible with a single normal monitor.

There are some important cons that you should consider before buying one for yourself. Curved monitors tend to be larger and take up more space on your desk, so your desk area will likely feel more cramped than if you were using a normal flat panel. This is especially true if you opt for an ultrawide curved display. A curved screen also naturally reduces viewing angles, so they’re not great for when you need to share your screen. Gauging whether you’ll like a certain curve can also be difficult without actually experiencing it for yourself, so if you can’t try before you buy, you’ll need to be prepared to return it, which can be a bigger chore due to the often large, unwieldy box.

Q: Can you have two curved monitors?

Technically you can use two curved monitors side-by-side, but we wouldn’t recommend it.

Using two curved monitors effectively undoes the ergonomic benefits of the curved panel: When sitting at the proper distance, centered, in front of a curved monitor, you shouldn’t have to twist your neck to take in the full screen. 

With two curved monitors, you’ll need to turn and re-center every time you switch. On top of that, lining up the arc of two curved displays puts a bezel to be in the center of your viewing area. It’s possible to use a second curved monitor at an angle, or positioned above your first (if you don’t mind craning your neck), but in general, it is more difficult and less immersive to use two curved displays.

Instead of using two curved displays, we’d recommend using a second flat panel monitor off to the side, or upgrading to a curved ultrawide display, which should give you a similar amount of screen real estate. If space isn’t a concern, it’s also possible to use three curved monitors to create a “u” for an immensely immersive viewing experience.

Q: What is the average curvature of a curved monitor?

As with other specs, there is a range of possible curvatures ranging from 3000R to 1800R, all the way down to 1000R. Most curved monitors tend to fall between 1800R and 1500R, as large shallow curves typically require larger screen sizes than are typical for computer monitors.

Final thoughts on the best curved monitors

Curved monitors are more popular than ever before. They provide a comfortable, immersive experience that enhances games and productivity. With the market for curved monitors expanding, there are options at any price point now, so if you’ve tried one and want to make the jump, there’s an option for every budget.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best OLED TVs in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-oled-tvs/ Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:45:26 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=426218
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Picking from the top of the television heap.

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Best overall The Samsung S95C OLED on a stand in a room with two chairs Samsung S95C
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Samsung’s latest OLED offering makes a strong statement.
Best for gaming LG C2 OLED TV with a colorful graphic on the screen LG C2 OLED
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Excellent connectivity and a bright picture make this a gaming superstar.
Best budget LG B2 budget OLED TV with a blue swirly graphic on the screen LG B2 OLED
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A balanced suite of features goes nicely with excellent image quality.

Step in front of the giant wall of TVs at your local big box store, and the OLED TVs will likely stand out. Their popping color and abundant contrast give these high-end panels an edge over much of their competition. And while technologies like Mini LED and Micro LED may eventually challenge OLED’s image quality crown, it hasn’t happened yet. At the same time, you know that the showroom has all the settings pushed to their peak to overwhelm you with vivid images. So, to help you separate the best from the rest, we’ve collected this list of top-tier OLED TVs across various brands and price points. While you shouldn’t expect to find a truly budget OLED TV, we have reached a point where there are strong options at relatively affordable (for high-end) prices. Sony debuted the first OLED TV back in 2007. It had an 11-inch screen with a 960 x 540 resolution for a tidy sum of $2,500. Spend that much now, and you can get a massive OLED display with some of the best picture quality and color reproduction around. The following are our selections for the best OLED TVs currently available.

How we chose the best OLED TVs

I have been writing about consumer electronics and home theater technology for nearly two decades, including a stint as the digital editor for the venerable A/V publication Sound & Vision. This list results from a combination of research and real-world impressions, plus data sourced from user and editorial reviews across the web.

We focused on emphasizing a solid mix of performance and price to choose our picks. All but one of the entries here include HDMI 2.1 ports, which we think will be important for some users now (particularly gamers) and others down the road. Obviously, LG is well-represented on the list as it’s the only company that physically manufactures OLED panels, which gives it an inherent edge that we can’t deny.

The best OLED TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

Because OLEDs sit near the top of the TV heap, pretty much any model you choose will perform at least reasonably well. The differences, then, lie in the details. We’ve dug into those specs to find the displays that best fit your needs.

Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED

The Samsung S95C OLED on a stand in a room with two chairs

Stan Horaczek

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Specs 

  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz (Up to 144Hz in some modes)
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, RF, Optical out
  • HDR: HDR 10+

Pros

  • Ports live on a box connected by a wire for versatile installation
  • Extremely bright for an OLED
  • Exceptional picture quality
  • Robust smart TV offerings
  • Solid sound
  • Pantone-certified color reproduction

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Bloated menu system

Samsung’s flagship OLED TV has, at least for the moment, knocked LG off the OLED throne. The S95C TV relies on Samsung’s latest generation of OLED panels, which integrate Quantum Dots into the equation to add extra brightness. OLED displays typically excel in contrast ratio, but that’s because they can achieve such deep black levels. That can kneecap their overall brightness. However, I spent time with Samsung’s S95C in a brightly lit room and found myself very impressed with its performance. 

As a flagship-level display, this TV offers almost all the bells and whistles you want. All its ports live on an external box connected by a single wire to the display. That makes it very easy to install the super-flat panel wherever you want while keeping all the ports accessible. The S95C comes toting four HDMI 2.1 ports, which is essential if you plan on doing high-framerate or high-res gaming on a current-generation console. 

During the review period, I played the PS5-exclusive Returnal and found the visuals extremely crisp and the refresh rate very smooth. This panel natively runs at 120Hz but can bump up to an even-smoother 144Hz in some situations. 

I also watched portions of a few movies, including the latest Venom movie, which taxes a TV by showing lots of fine details moving quickly across the screen with lots of contrast. The S95C managed to keep everything we like about OLEDs while adding the extra brightness that makes it viable in any space, even those with lots of ambient light. 

We haven’t had a chance to test the LG C3 yet, which will likely find itself in close competition with the S95C, but we’ll update this article once review units of the LG become available.

Best for gaming: LG C2

Specs 

  • Sizes: 42”, 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, and 83”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, Ethernet, RF, Headphones
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • Lots of sizes to choose from
  • All HDMI ports are 2.1 for max compatibility
  • Brighter than previous models
  • Dynamic tone mapping for localized image improvements
  • G Sync and Freesynch compatibility for variable refresh rates

Cons

  • Middling smart TV features

The LG C1 was a blockbuster of a TV that took top honors in just about every TV buying guide back in 2021. The only real downside was its relative lack of brightness (typical of OLEDs). By adding Quantum Dot tech to an OLED panel, LG gave the C2 considerably more brightness than its already excellent predecessor. 

The C2 is technically a 2022 model, but the C3 is only just starting to roll out. While the C2 isn’t the newest, it does offer the vast majority of what you’ll find in the C3 for a fraction of the price. With the C2, you get four side-mounted HDMI 2.1 ports, all of which can handle 4K action at 120 fps. 

As for gaming chops, this TV offers native support for the GeForce Now game streaming platform, so you can game even if you don’t have access to a PC or console. The C2 also supports several popular flavors of variable refresh rate technology, which prevents problems like screen tearing and game-ruining lag from spoiling your time behind the controller. 

Even if you’re not a huge gamer, the C2 is still a phenomenal all-around option, especially considering the lower price now that a new model has come around with updates. 

Best for PS5: Sony BRAVIA XR A80K Series 4K

Sony Bravia OLED TV with a blue and purple picture of crystals on the screen.

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Specs 

  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI (2 of which are HDMI 2.1), 2 USB-A ports, RF, Ethernet
  • HDR: HDR10 Dolby Vision

Pros

  • PlayStation 5 users get specific benefits due to Sony Synergy
  • Excellent picture
  • Price has come down since release
  • Among the best upscaling you’ll find
  • Ample contrast

Cons

  • Not as bright as some newer flagships
  • No headphone jack

It may come as no surprise that Sony wants to add a little extra incentive for people to buy both its latest TVs and its gaming console. For the most part, this is a typical high-end OLED display. It offers the deep blacks and excellent contrast ratios you expect from an OLED. You also get some of the best ai-powered image upscaling you’ll find in a TV thanks to Sony’s XR processor, which analyzes the on-screen image and tweaks it for maximum performance. So, if you’re not always watching native 4K content (and most of us aren’t), it will still look good. 

Plug a PlayStation 5 into one of the two HDMI 2.1 ports (out of a total of four) and this setup is capable of 4K gaming at 120 fps, even if consoles haven’t quite caught up to those lofty specs just yet. The TV does, however, get special tone-mapping abilities for more robust HDR performance exclusively with the PS5. Plus, those two HDMI 2.1 ports support Variable Refresh Rate tech with the PS5 to avoid screen tearing and other unwanted effects. In many ways, this TV was designed to work ideally with the PS5, so if you consume most of your content through that console, this is a great choice.

Best 8K: LG Z2 OLED evo

Specs 

  • Sizes: 77” and 88”
  • Resolution: 8K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, RF, Ethernet
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • The only 8K OLED around
  • Enormous sizes match the flashy design
  • Excellent picture quality
  • Robust smart features

Cons

  • Could be brighter
  • Very expensive

LG’s flagship Z2 TV pushes its maximum resolution all the way up to 8K. That means you get roughly 32 megapixels of image information every time the screen refreshes. That’s a serious amount of pixels. Of course, there really isn’t much native 8K content out there at the moment. LG remedies that issue by equipping its TV with its most powerful a9 image processing hardware. It relies on AI to upscale the on-screen image to fit the massive 8K screen. If you’re still regularly watching DVDs, this probably isn’t the TV for you. But if you’re watching native 4K and even streaming content, it should look very solid. 

In addition to all those pixels, this TV also has a classier design than most of its competition. At 77” and 88”, there’s no small option to sneak into a guest bedroom. This is a centerpiece TV made to occupy the main spot in the living room. It comes mounted on its own stand, allowing it to reside wherever you have the space. Whatever you do, however, please don’t put it too high above the fireplace. It deserves better than that. 

Is this TV practical? No, 8K is still in its infancy, and you’re definitely paying a premium for the fancy design. But why not get something fancy if you’re not worried about a measly $13,000 (or $25,000 for the 88″)? 

Best budget: LG B2

Specs 

  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI ports (two of which are HDMI 2.1), 2 USB-A ports, Ethernet, RF, Headphones, Optical audio
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • Lots of features considering the price
  • OLED image quality makes for great contrast
  • Filmmaker Mode for easy tuning
  • Available up to 77 inches
  • Variable Refresh Rate

Cons

  • Only two HDMI 2.1 ports
  • Not as bright as some high-end models

The LG B2 offers a lot of performance for its price. While this is technically a 2022 model, and the B3 is already on the market, the B2 offers all the features most users will ever need. It has a pair of the latest HDMI 2.1 ports (two of the four total HDMIs), both supporting 4K at 120 fps. So, if the current-generation gaming consoles ever live up to their full potential, this TV can handle it. 

Like every OLED, the B2 offers sky-high contrast ratios with deep blacks and excellent color reproduction. As this isn’t a flagship model, it doesn’t offer the same kind of brightness you’d expect from displays that also integrated Quantum Dots. That’s really only an issue if you’re trying to put this TV in a room with a ton of ambient light. This will look fantastic if you have a space to pull the shades and turn off the overheads. 

Because this is a somewhat down-market option and has been out for more than a year, you can often find deep discounts on all three sizes. If you don’t absolutely need the very best and the brightest, then you can get this display and leave lots of cash to pay for that ever-growing list of streaming services.

Still worth buying: LG C1

Specs 

  • Sizes: 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, 88”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, RF, 2 USB 2.0, ethernet, optical audio, headphone out
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • Impeccable picture
  • Solid mix of features and price
  • Lots of size options
  • Excellent upscaling

Cons

  • Just OK brightness

This was our best overall pick for some time, and it’s still absolutely worth checking out if you don’t need the most advanced features or the brightest display. You can often find it at a very solid discount.

Across all of your content consumption, the C1 provides an excellent contrast ratio thanks to its super-deep black levels. For movie watching, LG offers filmmaker mode, which turns off motion smoothing and tones down the vibrance and brightness to make the picture look more like what you’d expect at the theater. 

The C1 supports all the most popular flavors of HDR, as well as the two dominant Variable Refresh Rate technologies, G-Sync and FreeSync, which gamers will appreciate. In fact, the C1 has a lot to offer gamers. All four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1, giving you enough to hook up a PS5 and Xbox Series X for 4K/120fps gameplay. Plus, it boasts a 1ms response time in gaming mode, which cuts down potentially game-ruining lag. 

It’s not the brightest TV around, but that’s also one of the few drawbacks of OLED TVs across the board. Aside from that quibble, the C1 has just about anything anyone could ask for, and it won’t require ill-gotten crypto funds to afford it.

What is OLED, and how does it work?

Want to dig deeper into how these displays actually work and what makes them different from the rest of the TVs on the wall at the store?

Well, in an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, each pixel is an LED that emits its own light. When content requires dark or black areas on the screen, the display can simply turn those pixels off to create a “true” black that most other backlight technologies can’t match. The difference often becomes especially apparent in areas where bright objects butt up against darkness, which can cause light to spill where it shouldn’t go.

Typical LED backlit TVs rely on an array of LEDs sitting behind an LCD panel that controls how much light to let through. This is the same basic idea that has powered almost every flat-screen TV since the technology’s inception, and it comes with a few drawbacks. The primary issue arises when the LCD panel can’t block all of the light coming from behind it: The excess light distorts black and even darker colors, making them look gray or washed out. Depending on the arrangement of the LEDs in the backlight, it can also result in a picture with unnatural banding or patchiness, especially around the edges. If you’ve ever noticed light leaking from the top, bottom, or sides of your TV screen during a dark scene, OLED fixes that problem. 

While OLEDs are fantastic, they aren’t perfect. They’re still often pricier than their QLED competition at the same size. They also aren’t as bright and instead rely on their super-dark black levels to create a punchy, vibrant image. If you’re planning to watch TV in a super sunny room all day, then OLED probably isn’t your best bet. Otherwise, it’s hard to beat. 

What to know even more about backlighting tech? Check out our QLED vs. OLED vs. Mini-LED primer.

Things to consider when buying an OLED TV

Size

Dig into the OLED offerings, and you’ll find that most manufacturers hover around the 55- to 65-inch sweet spots for their most popular models, with an increasing amount of options in the 70s. If you’re in the market for a small TV, OLED probably isn’t the right choice for you. As with all big-screen TV, expect a noticeable price jump when you go above 65 inches. Manufacturers commonly offer 77-inch and even 88-inch displays, but they command a huge premium for all that real estate. 

Connectivity

Since you’re spending considerable cash on a new TV, you want it to last a while, which makes paying attention to the ports important for futureproofing. This is especially true if you plan to use your new panel with a fancy next-gen gaming console. 

Ideally, you’ll want a set with multiple HDMI 2.1 ports to prepare you for anything you may one day hook up. HDMI 2.1 represents the most recent iteration of the familiar connector. The extra bandwidth HDMI 2.1 provides allows compatible cables and devices to display high resolutions and fast frame rates, both of which will be increasingly important as streaming and gaming tech advance in the next few years. Right now, it’s only really relevant if you’re using a PS5 or Xbox Series X, but more devices will be able to take advantage down the road.

You’ll often find that TVs have a mixture of HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.0 ports, so just ensure you have enough high-performance connectivity to connect the devices you plan to use. 

Frame rate

High TV frame rates earned themselves a bad reputation early on when “motion smoothing” technology made our favorite movies look like cheesy soap operas. Many TVs still offer 60Hz refresh rates, which means the TV redraws the on-screen image 60 times each second. Higher-end TVs, however, support 120Hz refresh rates, which doubles the redraw frequency and creates smoother on-screen motion. While it won’t drastically improve movies and TV shows, it can make sports and video games look noticeably better. 

Some TV manufacturers have also started to support Variable Refresh Rate technologies like Nvidia’s G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. These gaming-focused features can reduce stuttering and other weirdness that can ruin your experience. Check out our round-up of the best TVs for gaming for a more in-depth take on these features.

Resolution

If you’re buying a current-generation OLED TV, it will almost certainly offer 4K resolution. This has been the standard for several years, and it’s where you want to be. Technically, 8K is an option, but it’s wildly impractical for most people. Right now, there’s a nearly complete dearth of 8K content to watch on those fancy TVs. Even newer game consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5, which technically support 8K gaming, lack any native 8K games or content. Upgrade to 8K if you want the bragging rights. Otherwise, 4K is plenty for now. 

Smart TV features

While a TV’s software won’t impact your viewing experience as much as its technical specifications, it may affect your interaction with your new OLED display if you don’t use an external streaming device or game console. Most TV manufacturers have a single platform on which all their TVs run. Since we’re talking about OLEDs, you’re very likely to end up using LG’s own WebOS platform since that brand shows up more than others. Sony often relies on Google TV software. While these services aren’t all created equal, none is so much better or worse than the others that they should affect your purchasing decision.

HDR

High-Dynamic Range is basically the whole sales pitch for OLED TVs. By making the dark areas and blacks basically devoid of illumination, it makes the brights seem even more brilliant. There are two HDR standards: the near-universal HDR10 and the less common Dolby Vision. Some critics suggest that Dolby Vision works better, but fewer places support the standard. Luckily there are very few TVs, if any, that support Dolby Vision but not HDR10. Realistically, the important thing to know is that any OLED worth buying says “HDR” on the box.

FAQs

Q: What are the disadvantages of OLED TV?

The primary issue with OLEDs tends to pop up as a lack of overall brightness. If you frequently watch TV in bright areas, you’re likely better off with something like a QLED or even a typical LED display, which can achieve higher levels of overall illumination.

OLEDs can sometimes suffer from a condition called “burn-in,” in which objects that stay on the screen too long can leave a permanent impression on the screen, impacting every picture. Modern OLEDs have come a long way in fixing this, though. 

Q: Which brand of OLED TV is best?

Sony and Vizio offer popular OLED TV sets, but LG dominates the OLED market because it’s the only company that can physically manufacture the panels. 

Q: Do OLED TVs degrade over time?

All TVs degrade over time, but OLEDs will typically do so a bit faster than the competition. You’ll notice the degradation as an overall loss in brightness and contrast. However, this process takes years with normal usage. If you’re planning to keep your TV on 24 hours a day for years at a time, you might want to opt for another style of TV.

OLEDs also once suffered from burn-in, a phenomenon in which on-screen objects that stayed in one place for too long would leave permanent imprints on the display. This has become much less of an issue in recent generations, though. 

Final thoughts on the best OLED TVs

If you’re in the market for the best possible picture quality in a TV, OLED is still the champ for the moment. With prices on the best OLED TVs coming down in recent years, this is actually a great time to take the leap into the OLED arena while competing technologies like Mini LED and Micro LED are still relatively early in their cycles. 

While you’re generally safe picking pretty much any LG OLED, make sure that you get the features that you need to support the style of content consumption you typically do. After all, that fancy new console isn’t all that fancy if you don’t have an HDMI 2.1 port to plug it into. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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]]> Relive the classics with this retro-inspired console featuring over 600 games https://www.popsci.com/sponsored-content/retro-game-console-sale/ Sat, 20 May 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=541832
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Pay only $24.99 and experience gaming nostalgia.

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The classics evoke a unique nostalgia that cannot be replicated. Bring back memories and get the Retro-Inspired Game Console with 620 Games Pre-Loaded for only $24.99.

In an era where gaming consoles have evolved to offer advanced graphics, immersive experiences, and online multiplayer, there is a certain charm in revisiting the simplicity of retro games. Pre-loaded with over 600 memorable 1980s-1990s classic games, you’ll get a blast from the past with this easy-to-use console. Pick from various categories—action, sports, racing, and more—and enjoy your gaming time from the comfort of your couch.

With so many gaming choices pre-loaded directly into the console, there’s bound to be something for everyone, resulting in endless hours of entertainment at your next family gathering or get-together with friends. This retro device will bring back memories or show new generations the games of the past. With titles like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Tetris, X-Men, and Street Fighter II, the console pays homage to gaming legends and allows players to relive the joy and challenges that made these games iconic.

Measuring 5.12 inches x 3.94 inches, the compact console offers versatility with its TV-compatible AV system. The package includes the console, two controllers, and a TV AV adapter cable for seamless TV integration. With its intuitive menu system and simple controls, players can effortlessly navigate through the vast library of games. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or looking for a gift for someone who loves games, this console is the ideal choice.

Verified buyer Catherine Greulich gave the console 5 out of 5 stars and wrote, “I didn’t know what to expect[,] but the game works great. Both adults and children love it! It is a great price too!”

Gear up for unfiltered access to memorable games with this jam-packed bundle.

While the Retro-Inspired Game Console with 620 Games Pre-loaded regularly sells for $27, you can purchase it for a limited time for $24.99. 

Prices subject to change. 

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]]> The best monitors for PS4 in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-monitors-for-ps4/ Mon, 23 May 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=444695
Best monitors for PS4 sliced header
Stan Horaczek

Go beyond the 4K TV in your living room and find the best monitors for PlayStation 4.

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Best monitors for PS4 sliced header
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ is the best monitor for PS4. Asus ROG Swift
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The Asus ROG Swift is expensive but offers one of the best experiences at this size.
Best budget Acer CB242Y is the best budget monitor for PS4. Acer CB242Y
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It’s small at just 24 inches, but the Acer CB242Y is a solid monitor that offers a vibrant picture and solid contrast.
Best 4K monitor Acer Nitro XV282K is the best 4K monitor for PS4 Pro. Acer Nitro XV282K
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The Acer Nitro XV282K features a 28-inch 4K IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, and all the ports you need.

Whether you’re planning to stream on Twitch, or simply don’t have a ton of space, sometimes it makes sense to play your consoles on a monitor instead of a TV. If your console of choice is the quasi-retired PlayStation 4, you can get a monitor that suits your needs for a very affordable price. Whether you have a standard PS4 or the 4K-capable PS4 Pro, these are the best monitors for PS4.

How we picked the best monitors for PS4

I’ve been writing about TVs, monitors, and PC gaming for the past 10 years, and keep up with new advances in the industry. Between my work at PopSci and writing for TechnoBuffalo, I’ve also tested gaming monitors from many manufacturers over the years.

To select the best monitors for PS4, I drew on my own personal testing experience, as well as reviews from experts specializing in display technology and impressions from consumers. Our top monitors offer the best overall value with a strong balance between refresh rate and price.

The best monitors for PS4: Reviews & Recommendations

You don’t need a great gaming monitor to get the most of your PS4—you only need 1080p/60Hz. The best monitors for PS4, we believe, go beyond that standard so you can get solid budget or mid-level performance on PC as well, without forcing you to spend more money than you need for an ideal gaming experience on your console of choice.

Best overall: Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX

Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ is the best monitor for PS4.

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX features a 32-inch 4K display and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3840×2160
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 32-inch
  • Ports: 3 x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Big, sharp picture
  • Ample ports
  • HDR

Cons

  • Very expensive

The Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX is a top-flight gaming monitor for any console, not just PS4. The 32-inch 4K display supports a 144Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits, so you’ll really get the full effect of HDR. This monitor features a mini-LED backlight, unlike the other monitors on this list, and features a max brightness of 500 nits. The biggest downside is the monitor is a little large at 32 inches, so if you’re sitting up close, the PS4’s 1080p output might not look amazing. Still, your eyes might not care after getting blasted with 1,400 nits of Bloodborne.

Best 4K monitor: Acer Nitro XV282K

Acer Nitro XV282K is the best 4K monitor for PS4 Pro.

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Acer Nitro XV282K features a 28-inch 4K IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, and all the ports you need.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3480×2160
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 28-inch
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.2, 4 x USB
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • VESA DisplayHDR 400
  • HDMI 2.1

Cons

  • Expensive

With a 28-inch 4K IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, and two HDMI 2.1 ports, the Acer Nitro XV282K is overkill for the PS4. It’s a much better match for the PS4 Pro or PS5, the latter of which is capable of gaming at 4K 120Hz. Like our budget pick, the Nitro XV282K has an adjustable stand and supports a 1ms response time. It also features two HDMI 2.1 ports, so you can enjoy the benefits of the new standard if you upgrade to a PS5 or Xbox Series X.

Best curved monitor: AOC C27G2Z

AOC C27G2Z is the best curved monitor for PS4.

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC C27G2Z features a 1500R curve, plenty of ports, and FreeSync support.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1920×1080
  • Refresh Rate: 240Hz
  • Size: 27-inch
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: No

Pros

  • Curved display
  • Ample ports
  • 240Hz refresh rate
  • 0.5ms response time

Cons

  • No HDR

Curved displays aren’t for everyone, since they force you to sit directly front and center, but the AOC C27G2Z makes a strong case for checking one out. The 27-inch VA 1080p display has a 1500R curvature, 240Hz refresh rate, and 0.5Ms response time. It’s also Freesync compatible and includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, so you can plug in your PS4 and PC. There’s no HDR and the display is fairly dim at 250 nits, but the 27-inch curved display offers a sharp, immersive experience.

Best budget: Acer CB242Y

Acer CB242Y is the best budget monitor for PS4.

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Acer CB242Y offers a great 24-inch IPS panel and a fantastic adjustable stand that’s height adjustable and can pivot 90 degrees.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1920×1080
  • Refresh Rate: 75Hz
  • Size: 24-inch
  • Ports: HDMI, VGA
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: No

Pros

  • Small and lightweight
  • Adjustable stand
  • Slim display bezels

Cons

  • 250 nit brightness

The Acer CB242Y may seem on the small side at 24 inches, but it’s a perfectly good size for a 1080p display, especially when it’s sitting within arm’s reach on your desk. The 1080p, IPS panel offers great color-accuracy and decent contrast. Normally, its 75Hz refresh rate would disqualify it from consideration, but it’s just the right speed for the PS4. The monitor also supports FreeSync technology, which helps eliminate screen tearing on PC, although the PS4 doesn’t support the feature.

The best part about the Acer CB242Y is its stand, which is height adjustable and can tilt, swivel, and pivot 90 degrees. The stand makes it easy to adjust the monitor for the best possible viewing experience.

What to look for when choosing the best monitors for PS4

Standard specs for monitors have evolved significantly since the PS4 launched in 2013. Models at every price point support faster refresh rates, higher resolutions, and better display technology. As such, the best gaming monitors available sport specs well beyond the PS4’s capabilities.

The standard PS4 aims to run games in 1080p at 60 frames per second over an HDMI 2.0a connection, which enables high dynamic range (HDR). The more powerful PS4 Pro features support for 4K at 60fps, with support for HDMI 2.0b. In both cases, you have a very specific cap on what your console can do, so it pays to get a monitor that’s just powerful enough to meet those needs.

Size and resolution

When we talk about monitor size, we’re referring to the diagonal length of the screen, from corner to corner, in inches. Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen (width by height). Although the PS4 supports a max resolution of 1920×1080 (Full HD), some monitors support 2560×1440 (Quad HD) and 3840×2160 (Ultra HD).

When choosing a monitor, it’s important to remember that the size and resolution are inherently connected when generating a clear picture. A monitor’s size and resolution are linked because the image quality can suffer depending on the combination you get. A large monitor with a low resolution can look blurry, particularly when sitting close.

Since the PS4’s top resolution is 1080p, you’ll want to choose a monitor on the smaller side. We recommend picking up a monitor with a display that’s 27 inches or under; otherwise, your games may not look as sharp as they would on a smaller screen. If you have a PS4 Pro and want to play in 4K, we recommend going all out and getting a large monitor—32 inches or more. 

One last thing to keep in mind: Neither the PS4 nor the PS4 Pro support 2560 x 1440 resolution, also known as 1440p or Quad HD. If you’re buying a monitor specifically to play PS4 games, you should avoid buying a 1440p monitor as a reach for the PS4 or a compromise pick for the PS4 Pro.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw and redraw what’s happening on the screen. It’s been a core feature of monitors for years and has only gotten more advanced. Some monitors today top out at 360Hz, which is far more than what a PS4 can support. The higher the frame rate, the smoother the animations. If you play online games like Call of Duty: Vanguard, a higher refresh rate will help you respond more quickly to the action taking place.

Usually, we recommend players buy a gaming monitor with a top refresh rate of 144Hz, which allows players to run most games with uncapped frame rates on a powerful PC. That said, PS4 supports a refresh rate up to only 60fps, so you won’t need a monitor that supports anything higher. (This is especially helpful on the PS4 Pro since many 4K monitors max out at 60Hz.)

There is one extra wrinkle here. The now 18-month-old PlayStation 5 can play some games in 4K resolution at 120fps. If you’re planning to upgrade to the new console in the near future—supplies permitting—it may make sense to buy a 4K monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate. For more advice on futureproofing, check out our guide to the best monitors for PS5.

Panel type

Most monitors use Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panels lit by LED backlights, and there are a few different types to choose from that offer various levels of quality. For this roundup, we focused on two panel types used most often by display manufacturers: vertical alignment, or VA, and in-plane switching, or IPS.

Monitors with IPS panels offer the best color performance among its peers, often providing 95% or higher of DCI-P3, the widest color gamut used in the film industry. They also tend to bring black levels to their most extreme, making it difficult to distinguish details in dark scenes.

VA panels offer excellent contrast, refresh rates, and response times. They also provide impressive colors, often reaching the Adobe RGB color gamut. Due to the remarkable contrast ratio of VA panels, they work well with HDR content. That said, VA panels tend to have poor viewing angles, so you want to sit directly in front of them to get the best experience.

High dynamic range (HDR)

High dynamic range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows a monitor or TV to show greater detail in scenes with higher contrast. Imagine a game that needs to show dim and bright light simultaneously. With HDR, a monitor can accurately show details in challenging light scenarios and offer richer, more vibrant colors.

The PS4 supports HDR10, an open standard for the tech common among TVs. It calls for screen brightness of up to 1,000 nits. While HDR has been a common feature in TVs for years now, it’s less common in monitors. Generally, monitors that support HDR offer only basic HDR performance, which may be due to the monitor’s limited brightness and lack of local dimming technology, which can dim specific parts of a screen. Generally speaking, you need a brighter screen for HDR to work well—a dim screen will not be able to differentiate between high- and low-lit areas at the same time.

While comparing monitors, you may notice that some monitors list support for HDR according to the VESA DisplayHDR certification program, rather than mentioning HDR10 or Dolby Vision, the most common choices among TVs. The Video Electronics Standards Association, or VESA, ranks HDR performance from best to worst: 1400, 1000, 600, 500, and 400. Often, cheaper monitors with support for HDR will fall on the lower end of the spectrum with a rating of 400. For the best HDR experience while gaming, you want a monitor that offers VESA DisplayHDR 600 or above.

Lastly, since great 1080p monitors with HDR support and high brightness are rare and often expensive, it’s worth noting that not all PS4 games support HDR. Push Square has a list of HDR-compatible PS4 games, which is long but focused on AAA games from the second half of the PS4’s lifespan. Only select games available for PS4 support HDR, including Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Last of Us 2. You may need to enable it on the console and in the game you’re playing to use the feature.

FAQs

Q: Does PS4 support DisplayPort?

No, the PS4 doesn’t support DisplayPort. The PS4 connects to monitors via an HDMI 1.4 port. Technically, you can connect a PS4 to a monitor’s DisplayPort using an active HDMI-to-DisplayPort adapter. They’re reasonably priced and easy to use, but may disable HDR support.

Q: Should I use a TV or monitor for PS4?

There’s no right or wrong way to play the PS4. Both monitors and TVs will provide you with an enjoyable experience. The choice comes down to price, size, and where you plan to play games. If you prefer to sit back on the couch while gaming, then a TV is the better option. A monitor can be helpful if you’re trying to stream on Twitch through a PC, or if you prefer a desk-based gaming setup. Both are viable options and will produce an excellent picture.

Q: Can any monitor work with PS4?

Any monitor with an HDMI 2.0 port and either speakers or a means of connecting an audio source should work with the PS4. For very old monitors, you may need an HDMI-to-VGA adapter or HDMI to DVI adapter to output video. If your monitor doesn’t have speakers or a 3.5mm headphone jack, you can connect a gaming headset to your PS4 or plug in speakers to the console’s optical port.

Realistically, if your monitor doesn’t have an HDMI port, we would recommend looking into an upgrade.

Q: Does PS4 support 144Hz?

No, the PS4 supports a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz. Even with a 144Hz monitor, your games should run between 30-60Hz. That said, we still generally recommend 144Hz gaming monitors for most players. It will still run your PS4 games at the highest possible framerate, and keeps the door open for better performance on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.

Final thoughts on the best monitors for PS4

Almost every monitor we researched had the basic specs necessary to make the PS4 shine. Most great monitors far exceed the console’s simple resolution and frame rate needs. Unless you care strongly about high dynamic range, you have a wide array of worthy choices. That said, if you’re buying a new monitor to pair with a PS4, it wouldn’t hurt to choose something with an eye toward what can also get the most out of a PS5.

The post The best monitors for PS4 in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> The best gaming monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-gaming-monitor/ Thu, 10 Feb 2022 21:02:25 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-gaming-monitor/
The best gaming monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Say goodbye to motion blur, pixelation, and tiny screens that require squinting with our picks for high-performance monitors.

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The best gaming monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best overall Best Gaming Monitors ViewSonic Elite XG320U
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The ViewSonic Elite XG320U offers great performance at the current top end of monitor specs.
Best 4K Best Gaming Monitors LG 27GN950-B
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The LG 27GN950-B is an especially sharp 4K monitor with all the right specs, including strong brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate.
Best Budget Best Gaming Monitors ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)
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The Asus TUF VG27AQ delivers incredible performance for under $400.

With rare exceptions, modern video games are an extremely visual medium, and what better way to experience that than on one of the top-notch gaming monitors. Whether you want to fully immerse yourself in imaginary worlds or ruthlessly climb to the tops of competitive ladders, crisp, bright, and color-accurate visuals are a key part of that experience. The best gaming monitors can get expensive, but they last for years and can easily jump between systems or become secondary monitors as you upgrade. There’s little point in spending money on a powerful new console or PC graphics card if you don’t have a screen that can actually take advantage of it. Even if you literally cannot tell the difference between 30 and 60 frames per second or 1080p and 4K (good for you, to be honest), we’ll help you cut through the noise, narrow down your priorities, and match them to one of the best gaming monitors on the market.

How we chose the best gaming monitors

First, we selected a range of specs around which to optimize, broadly dividing up monitors by available categories and user needs, such as focusing on frame rate, resolution, and price-to-spec value. We finalized the specific picks by collating both professional and consumer reviews to confirm monitors that we felt provided the best value in these various specs, with broad and consistent praise. New gaming monitors are coming out all the time, so no list can be truly definitive. However, these selections offer a snapshot of the current state of gaming monitor technology and design.

These selections were also more fundamentally informed by a lifetime of experience as gamers, as well as years covering both the gaming and hardware spaces as journalists and critics. With that expertise, we can help demystify the jargon-heavy world of monitors and help find the best one for you.

The best gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Flat or curved, big or small—it’s time to figure out the best monitor for your gaming rig, whether a desktop PC or a laptop. Now that you know the basics, here’s a list of our favorites. Each pick is optimized for a different spec or use case, so we think you’ll find something that works for you.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

Best Gaming Monitors

ViewSonic

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Why it made the cut: The ViewSonic Elite XG320U offers great performance at the current top end of desktop monitors.

Specs

  • Size: 32 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 150Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 600

Pros

  • Gorgeous picture
  • Accurate colors out of the box
  • High-performing at all resolutions
  • HDMI 2.1 compatible

Cons

  • Expensive

If money is no object and you just want the most monitor in every dimension possible, ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U has everything you need to make your games look their best. IPS (In-Plane Switching) displays historically had more vivid, accurate colors, but at the expense of response time, making them less ideal for gamers. The Elite is a great example of how newer, faster IPS tech has basically eliminated that gap, achieving the best of both worlds with fantastic colors and sharp, responsive images with no ghosting. With HDMI 2.1 compatibility as well, it’s a perfect fit for the latest generation of consoles or PC graphics cards and their promise of 4K gaming at 120Hz.

Best 4K: LG 27GN950-B 27-inch UHD Nano IPS Display Ultragear Gaming Monitor

Why it made the cut: The LG 27GN950-B is an especially sharp 4K monitor with all the right specs, including strong brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: Nano IPS
  • Native resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 160Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 600

Pros

  • Great color accuracy
  • Very fast and smooth performance, especially for 4K
  • Highly adjustable monitor stand.

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No HDMI 2.1

If you’re rocking the kind of system that’s ready for 4K gaming all the time, the LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor is one of the best 4K gaming displays on the market, particularly for PC players. This incredibly fast and smooth 27-inch 4K screen has a nano IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 160), 1ms response time, and is NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Not only does it function at incredibly high speeds without any choppiness or smearing, but it also maintains sharp detail with bold colors and dynamic contrast.

Best 1440p: Acer Nitro XV272U

Acer Nitro XV272U

Acer

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Why it made the cut: Acer’s Nitro XV272U offers fantastic 1440p performance and utility at a great value.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1440p
  • Refresh rate: 170Hz
  • Response time: .5ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
  • Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Bright, accurate colors
  • Responsive performance
  • Price

Cons

  • Bland design

Acer’s Nitro XV272U proves that while a monitor’s resolution is important, it’s not everything. This display is 1440p, which means it’s better than HD but not quite 4K. This middle ground is fine since certain consoles, like the Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series S, aren’t capable of playing 4K games anyway. What sets this gaming monitor apart—aside from its shockingly good price is its 170Hz refresh rate, ultra-low latency, and support for AMD’s FreeSync. PC gamers with AMD graphics cards will find the Nitro XV272U is well-suited to their gaming setup. Your PC’s other specs—especially its CPU and GPU—will still make the biggest difference in how your games play, but we’re confident this gaming monitor won’t be the weak link in your system. If you connect your gaming PC to this monitor’s DisplayPort, you’ll have two HDMI ports free for game consoles, which is great if you want to turn your desk into an all-in-one gaming area. If you’re not completely sold on 4K gaming but want a monitor that’s relatively futureproofed for when you upgrade your gaming hardware, Acer’s Nitro XV272U is a great choice.

Best for esports: Alienware AW2521HF

Best Gaming Monitors

Alienware

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Why it made the cut: A small display with a 240Hz framerate, the Alienware AW2521HF is optimized for competitive play in all the right ways.

Specs:

  • Size: 24.5 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1080p
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: N/A

Pros

  • 240Hz refresh rate
  • Great viewing angles
  • Support for both G-Sync and FreeSync

Cons

  • No HDR

When it comes to fast-paced online competition, speed is the most important variable. Alienware’s AW2521HF 24.5-inch IPS display is only 1080p but runs at a blistering 240Hz with a low 1ms response time. Although it lacks HDR, it has fantastic viewing angles and is extremely glare-resistant, helping you maintain focus on the game. It’s compatible with both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, meaning smooth performance no matter what graphics card is powering it.

Best curved: Samsung Odyssey G9

Best Gaming Monitors

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is the most performant monitor for gaming in the narrow field of ultrawides.

Specs

  • Size: 49 inches
  • Panel type: QLED
  • Native resolution: 5120×1440
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: Samsung HDR 1000

Pros

  • Gorgeous ultrawide display
  • Vivid colors and contrast from QLED
  • Blazingly fast refresh rate

Cons

  • Expensive
  • How wide is too wide?

Curved monitors are an expensive niche for a particular kind of hardware enthusiast, though the number of ultrawide options is growing rapidly. Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is a 49-inch monster of a display, perfect for gaming with its 240Hz max refresh rate and fast 1ms response time. With QLED display technology, it achieves more vivid colors and contrast and greater overall brightness than most gaming monitors, as well. As with most of our picks, its main drawback is cost, which is particularly amplified here as long, curved screens are much more expensive to produce than standard, flat resolutions.

Prefer a flatscreen and saving a ton? Samsung makes great monitors in general, and the 43-inch Odyssey Neo G7 offers a 4K UHD, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600 with Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Samsung Gaming Hub access.

Best budget: ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)

Best Gaming Monitors

Asus

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Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF VG27AQ delivers incredible performance for under $400.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1440p
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • 1440p and high refresh rate
  • Good ergonomic options
  • Incredible value for spec

Cons

  • Weak HDR

It’s hard to find a better performance-to-price ratio than ASUS’ TUF Gaming VG27AQ. At 27 inches, 1440p, 165Hz, and a 1ms response time, this relatively cheap monitor means you’re ready for both visually rich immersion and lightning-speed competition. It even features ergonomic adjustments like height, tilt, and swivel, often one of the first sacrifices you make for a cheaper monitor. The only substantial drawback is that the overall brightness is insufficient to really let the HDR pop. Still, sacrifices had to be made somewhere for such an otherwise excellent monitor at this price.

What to look for when choosing the best gaming monitor

When researching gaming monitors, companies will throw a lot of numbers at you. Some of these specs—like size, resolution, and refresh rate—are extremely important. Others are a bit more granular. Here’s a rundown of the top details to watch before you pick up your next display.

Size and resolution

Many PC gamers believe bigger is better, but that isn’t always true. Size, resolution, and where you sit relative to the monitor are all intimately connected, and you should consider them all together when picking the best gaming monitor for you. A monitor’s size, listed in inches, refers to the diagonal length from corner to corner. PC monitors typically range from 19 to 34 inches. 

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, given in width by height. For gaming monitors, the three relevant contemporary resolutions are 1920 x 1080 (“1080p” or “HD”), 2560 x 1440 (“1440p” or “Quad HD”), and 3840 x 2160 (“4K” or “Ultra HD/UHD”). More pixels mean more detailed images, but also demand much more of your graphics card, so one of the biggest limiting factors for your monitor purchase should be the resolution at which your hardware can comfortably operate (unless you are trying to futureproof for some later upgrade). The benefits of more pixels are also lost on smaller monitors, where you won’t really be able to see the difference. For a small monitor—anything less than 27 inches—stick with 1080p. For 27- to 30-inch monitors, you probably want 1440p. For monitors larger than 30 inches, 4K is ideal.

Where you sit also factors in because being closer to a screen means it fills more of your vision, effectively making it larger. A 32-inch monitor might be great in theory, but if it’s dominating your desk, you might strain your neck trying to take it all in. Ergonomics experts recommend that the top of the monitor should sit around your eye level, so you minimize strain from having to look up at it, so keep that in mind when measuring your space. There’s no one best setup for size and resolution, so you should weigh both your hardware’s power and the setting in which you’ll be using it to pick the configuration that will give you the most bang for your buck

Refresh rate and response time

Refresh rate and response time are hugely important when it comes to finding the best gaming monitor. A refresh rate, expressed in Hertz (Hz), tells you the maximum number of times your monitor can update the status of what’s happening on your PC per second. In games, that translates to the game’s frame rate, or how many frames of animation your screen can show. The higher the refresh rate, the better and smoother the image. Refresh rates can range from 30Hz to 300Hz, but you’ll most commonly see 60Hz, 144Hz, and 240Hz. For modern AAA gaming, we generally recommend a 140Hz monitor. Still, there are exceptions: For esports, many players will choose the highest possible refresh rate to have the best reaction time, even at the expense of resolution and screen size. On the opposite end, 4K monitors are not as ubiquitous as 4K TVs and are still very expensive, so you may find yourself picking out a 4K/60fps model if the resolution is a priority for you.

In addition to a high refresh rate, you want to find a monitor with a short response time. Response time measures how quickly the monitor can change a pixel from black to white (or through shades of gray, depending on the monitor type). A longer response time means more motion blur, which can really mess up gameplay. Most monitors feature a 1ms response time, which is acceptable. There’s often more variation than the manufacturer’s letting on, but for this crash course, 1mm is good enough for most people.

Variable refresh rate

One very common feature worth highlighting is “variable refresh rate,” which refers to a monitor’s ability to smoothly ramp the frame rate up and down on the fly to match hardware performance. This leads to smoother visuals, specifically reducing the screen stuttering and tearing that can sometimes happen in video games, particularly when visuals are intense. There are two major versions of this technology: Nvidia’s proprietary G-Sync, and competitor AMD’s more open FreeSync technology. While some monitors are compatible with both, many only support one or the other, so if your machine’s graphics card can support it (depending on whether Nvidia or AMD makes it), be sure and get a compatible monitor to enjoy the benefits.

Do you want a curved monitor for gaming?

Curved monitors—which create a more immersive experience by allowing you to use your full field of view, including your peripheral vision—have become increasingly popular in gaming circles. Though they come in all shapes and sizes, they typically need to be large to create a wide field of view and often come in “ultrawide” screen sizes to maximize their effects.

When picking a curved display, you need to look at the depth of the curve, in addition to the usual size and resolution specs. The Monitor curvature, expressed as R, tells you the radius of the monitor’s curve. The number typically ranges from 1000R to 4000R. The lower the number, the deeper the curve. According to monitor manufacturer ViewSonic, the number also serves as a quick reference for how far away you should position yourself from your monitor. If you have a 4000R monitor, you should also sit 4 meters away from the monitor when you play to minimize eye fatigue and to get the best viewing experience.

The curved monitor can be a very cool way to enhance your games, but it is an “advanced” purchase for PC-savvy players who really know what they want. Many games require extra settings adjustments to work properly on wider curved displays. Also, picking a curved display usually means committing to a one-display setup since your curved monitor has to be centered. That may not fit players who work from home and use their PCs for work and play. If you’re into monitors and optimizing your experience, buying one may be life-changing, but new PC gamers might want to start with a flat panel and work their way up to it. 

FAQs

Q: Is 165Hz good for a gaming monitor?

Yes, given that 60 frames per second is still the industry-standard stable target, 165Hz gives you lots of room to handle the fastest any game will run. We generally recommend 144Hz displays for most players, unless you’re specifically looking for an “esports monitor” to give you an edge in competitive play.

Q: Is a 30-inch monitor too big for gaming?

While it is ultimately a matter of taste, most would describe 32-inch monitors as the upper limit for a comfortable gaming experience. Depending on how close you like to sit to your screen, a 30- or 32-inch monitor may require you to move your neck to see the far corners of the screen, leading to fatigue and strain over time.

Also, it bears repeating that as size goes up pixel density goes down, so a 32-inch 1080p display will look worse than a smaller screen with the same specs. At that size, you should primarily look for 4K displays.

Q: Is 240Hz better than 144Hz?

Yes, a 240Hz monitor will offer a higher level of fidelity than an external display with a lower refresh rate. That said, most games can’t run at 120FPS, and wouldn’t be able to take full advantage of the added speed.

Q: Should I get one or two gaming monitors?

No, gaming is a single-screen pursuit—unless you’re playing on Nintendo’s DS, 3DS, or WiiU platforms—so two gaming monitors aren’t necessary. If you’re planning on streaming your gameplay on Twitch, and want to keep an eye on your chat, a second non-gaming-specific monitor could be a good option.

Q: Does having 2 gaming monitors affect GPU performance?

Yes. Playing games on multiple monitors would impact your GPU performance since resources would have to be split between them.

Q: What’s the best panel tech for a gaming monitor?

OLED panels would offer the best color performance, but that screen technology hasn’t made its way into the mainstream gaming monitor world. A few OLED options exist, but they’re few and far between.

Q: What type of monitor is best for FPS gaming?

The FPS (First Person Shooter) genre of games benefit most from faster display panels, so any gaming monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate would work best.

Q: How much should a gaming monitor cost?

This will depend on its size, resolution, and refresh rate. An entry-level gaming monitor shouldn’t cost more than $250, but you can spend upwards of $1500 if you want a cutting-edge external display.

Q: What gaming monitor do pro gamers use and why?

Esports pros usually prefer smaller monitors than casual gamers because they minimize the effort required to take in the entire screen. Being able to process information quickly is one of the most fundamental skills in any competitive video game, and 24 inches is the standard size that tends to best fill their field of vision without overwhelming it. When playing video games is your job, tiny ergonomic factors are dramatically amplified, so comfort and utility take precedence over aesthetic immersion.

Final thoughts on the best gaming monitors

The best gaming monitor is designed to fit your space, enhance your gaming experience, and elevate the visuals of your favorite games. As long as you feel confident about the way you hope to play and the setup that you want, we feel confident you’ll be able to find the perfect fit. Don’t skimp on scoping out the specs, and stick to your goals, even if that means waiting a little more time to save. The next best monitor for gaming is always right around the corner, so make sure you are super satisfied with your choice.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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]]> PlayStation voice commands will change how you use your console https://www.popsci.com/diy/playstation-voice-commands/ Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:23:02 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=534849
Person wearing official PlayStation headset while gaming against a purple background.
You can use any headset with a microphone to control your PS4 and PS5 with your voice. Sony

Get your PlayStation to do what you want only by using your voice.

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Person wearing official PlayStation headset while gaming against a purple background.
You can use any headset with a microphone to control your PS4 and PS5 with your voice. Sony

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The bundled gamepad isn’t the only way to control your PlayStation. Not only can you use a mouse and keyboard, but you can also use voice commands like you would with a smart speaker. Simply say your instructions out loud and your console will obey.

Voice control is a quick and convenient way of performing functions like turning off your PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5, and launching games. And there are plenty more voice commands to explore.

How to use voice commands on the PlayStation 4

On the PlayStation 4, voice control works via the official PlayStation Camera accessory or any connected headset with a microphone, but you’ll need to enable the feature first. Press and hold the PlayStation button to bring up the quick menu, choose Settings, and then pick System and Voice Operation Settings to turn on Operate PS4 with Voice.

[Related: Best PS4 games to play on PS5]

Before you start talking to your console, you need to say “Playstation” and wait for the microphone icon to appear on screen. You can also press and hold L2 on the DualShock controller to get the console to start listening, but this only works on the home screen. When the mic shows up you can start talking and say multiple instructions in a row.

There are some basic commands that are going to work just about everywhere, including “yes” to agree to a confirmation prompt, “cancel” to reject a confirmation prompt, and “back” to return to a previous screen. You’ll also be able to say the name of any game or app on your console to launch it, but this will only work from the PS4 home screen.

To turn your console off with your voice, open the power options by saying “start power” and then either use the “enter rest mode” command (to put the PS4 into rest mode) or say “turn off PS4” (to turn the console off completely). Unfortunately, no matter whether the console is in rest mode or fully switched off, there’s no way to turn on the PlayStation 4 using your voice as there is on the Xbox.

You can also get around the various different screens in the console interface with your voice—just say “start…” followed by the name of the screen you want to jump to. Available options here include the PlayStation Store, settings, notifications, friends, messages, party, profile, and trophies. You can manage gameplay captures with voice commands as well: say “take screenshot” to do just that, or “start video clip” to begin recording gameplay.

At the time of writing, Sony doesn’t have an official full list of all the PS4 voice commands you can use, but you can see them all through the Voice Operating Settings page under System in Settings: Just choose Commands for Voice Operation. Alternatively, use the voice command “all commands” to see the list.

How to use voice commands on the PlayStation 5

Using your voice to control the PS5 is currently labeled as a “preview” feature, which makes us think it’s perhaps not fully finished, or at least there’s more functionality to come. But it works well already, and there are plenty of voice commands for you to play around with. Unfortunately, they’re not exactly the same as on the PS4.

For the PlayStation 5, you can use the PlayStation Camera (PS5 edition) as a mic, or any connected headset with a mic. As the bundled DualSense controllers also have a mic on them, you can just talk into that as well. Just make sure the microphone is turned on, which you can do by pressing the small button between the joysticks, right under the PS button—it lights up orange when enabled.

To activate this preview feature on your PS5, get to the main Settings page by selecting the cog icon in the top right corner of the home screen, then choose Voice Command (Preview) and turn on the Enable Voice Command toggle switch. It’s a good idea to enable Listen for “Hey PlayStation!” too, otherwise you’ll have to tap the PS button and select Voice every time you want to talk.

[Related: Video games feel different on the PlayStation 5 and that’s a good thing]

The “Hey PlayStation” command will get your console listening, and then you’ve got lots of options. For a start you can say “open…” followed by the name of any app or game you’ve got installed—it’s a quick and convenient way of launching something, especially if it’s got a short name that’s simple to say. You can also use “find…” followed by a game or app title if you’re looking for something in the PlayStation Store.

You’ll also be able to control media playback on any app playing movies or music through your console: For example, commands such as “pause”, “resume” and “fast forward” will do exactly what you’d expect. If you want to make a gameplay video, “capture that” will record the last few minutes of action. You can be more specific by adding a time period to the command (just say “capture the last five minutes”), but if you don’t, the PS5 will use the default duration of 30 seconds instead.

As with the PS4, there’s no official list on the web of all the voice commands supported by the PS5 at the time of writing, but a quick search will reveal plenty of unofficial ones. You can also choose Voice Command (Preview) and then Learn More from Settings on the console itself to see a list of some of the supported commands.

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]]> The best ultrawide gaming monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ultrawide-gaming-monitors/ Tue, 05 Apr 2022 15:34:33 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=435669
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Stan Horaczek

For when 16:9 just isn't cutting it anymore.

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Best overall BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R is the best ultrawide gaming monitor. BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R
SEE IT

You have to spend a lot more to do better than the BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R.
Best super ultrawide Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the best super ultrawide gaming monitor. Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
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The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 has every bell and whistle you could ask for on a 32:9 gaming monitor.
Best budget Gigabyte M34WQ is the best budget ultrawide gaming monitor. Gigabyte M34WQ
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The Gigabyte M34WQ is the best ultrawide gaming monitor you’ll find for $500.

If you want to completely lose yourself in a video game, an ultrawide gaming monitor is one of the best ways to expand your PC gaming setup. Standard widescreen is great, but ultrawide displays eliminate the need for a secondary display with a giant screen that stretches all the way across your field of vision. Just as with any other category of monitors, though, there are tons of options to choose from, and not all of them will get you what you need. We’ll walk you through the detailed decisions that go into picking the best ultrawide gaming monitors, then highlight some of the best options available in the space.

How we chose the best ultrawide gaming monitors

For a long time, the biggest change in PC monitors was the shift from old CRT screens to flat panel displays. In the last five or 10 years, though, they’ve begun to evolve at a breakneck pace. There are more options than ever now. I’ve been covering both display and GPU technology for the last five years, in addition to building my own PCs and paying attention to new developments in graphics technology as a personal hobby.

To make our selections, we drew upon our monitor testing program, sourced opinions from critics at multiple publications and user impressions from across the internet, and leveraged our general knowledge of display technology. We looked for interesting monitors to fit a few different categories. There’s no price limit on our picks, which means these displays can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

The best ultrawide gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Flat or curved, big or small—it’s time to figure out the best ultrawide monitor for your gaming rig, whether a desktop PC or a laptop. After doing our homework, we think these are top options you can get right now, from the best overall to the very best that money can buy to the best for less, as well as an option that was announced earlier this year that we’re really looking forward to taking for a spin.

Best overall: BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R

BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R is the best ultrawide gaming monitor.

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: The BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R has all the big bells and whistles we look for without the heavy price tag.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution (Aspect Ratio): 2560×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Curved (1900R)
  • Color depth: 10-bit
  • Refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 200 nits (typical) / 400 nits (max)
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 1 x HDMI 2.0; 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, Height, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10, VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Loud built-in soundbar
  • Robust feature set
  • Lots of color options
  • Great value

Cons

  • Low brightness

The BenQ EX3415R has it all. This IPS panel offers a 144 Hz refresh rate for fast response in games, 10-bit color to display images accurately, and a gentle 1900R curvature for easy viewing. Add a good set of ports and both G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility, and you have a more or less complete package.

It was hard to pick between the EX3415R and the Alienware AW3420DW—another excellent curved ultrawide display—but the BenQ panel wins out thanks to a higher refresh rate and higher peak brightness. Both models offer great performance and incredible value, though: To get bigger or sharper, you’ll have to spend a lot more money.

Best super ultrawide: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9

Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the best super ultrawide gaming monitor.

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 outshines every other ultrawide with its giant, rich display … and its sky-high price tag.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 5120 x 1440 (32:9)
  • Panel style: Curved (1000R)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 420 nits (Typical) / 2000 nits (Max)
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.1; 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A; Earphone Jack; Audio line-out
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10+

Pros

  • Massive screen
  • Top-tier gaming features
  • HDMI 2.1

Cons

  • Super expensive

If you can afford the $2,500 price tag, the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is as good as it gets when it comes to ultrawide displays. The 49-inch, 32:9 screen is quite literally the same screen (and desk) real estate as two displays pushed together, and the 1000R curve allows the display to surround you with bright, vibrant colors whenever you boot up a game. The G9 has tons of ports, including two HDMI 2.1 ports—the only screen on this list that offers them (so you’ll want to pick up the best ultra-high-speed HDMI cables). You could put this screen in almost any category on this list and have it make sense. It’s just that good. You just have to come up with the money to bring it home.

Best for consoles: MSI Optix MPG 341CQR

MSI Optix MPG 341CQR is the best ultrawide gaming monitor for consoles.

MSI

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Why it made the cut: The MSI Optix MPG 341CQR is the only ultrawide gaming monitor with console-minded features.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (32:9)
  • Panel style: Flat
  • Color depth: 10-bit
  • Refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.1; 3 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A; Earphone Jack
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Console optimization
  • Robust features
  • Good price

Cons

  • Consoles don’t support ultrawide aspect ratios directly

I’ll be blunt: We do not recommend pairing a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X with an ultrawide gaming monitor. Right now, only the PS5 supports ultra-wide monitors at 1440p, and it only gained support for variable refresh rates in mid-2022. Many TVs for gaming are far more optimal.

That said, we do have an option if you feel compelled. MSI claims that the Optix MPG 341CQR is optimized specifically for PS5. According to the company, it will accept a 4K signal and downsample it to 1440p rather than upscaling a 1080p signal. This display also supports 120Hz gameplay at 1080p over HDMI—a nice feature for the small but growing number of console games that support it. 

Beyond its PS5 compatibility, the Optix MPG 341CQR is a generally solid display. It offers good color depth, a high refresh rate, lots of USB ports, and a VA panel for good contrast in both well- and dimly-lit rooms.

Ultrawide screens are generally not a good fit with game consoles. If you need to play a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series console into a display, this is your best bet.

Best OLED: Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3423DW

Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3423DW is the best OLED ultrawide gaming monitor.

Alienware

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Why it made the cut: Alienware made the first QD-OLED gaming monitor, and they put it on a 21:9 display.

Specs

  • Panel type: Quantum Dot OLED
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Curved (1800R)
  • Refresh rate: 175Hz over DisplayPort, 100Hz over HDMI 2.0
  • Response time: 0.1 ms
  • Max brightness: 250 nits (typical) / 1000 nits (max)
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 4 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A; Earphone Jack; Audio line-out
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, Slant, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400

Pros

  • OLED display
  • Great HDR support
  • Lots of ports

Cons

  • Burn-in might be a concern

Organic light-emitting diode display technology—OLED, for short—is arguably the king of the gaming television space right now, monitor manufacturers have been slow to bring the panels to the world of PCs. (For an in-depth explainer on why check out our list of the best OLED TVs.) In fact, Alienware just launched the first QD-OLED gaming monitor, the AW3423DW, giving PC gamers the chance to experience the heightened fidelity OLED displays can provide.

With an OLED display, you get perfect contrast thanks to the fact that every pixel is individually-self lit instead of being backlit or edgelit like traditional LED screens. That means pure blacks and vibrant colors, as well as super-fast response time. The Alienware AW3423DW seems to have its specs locked down, ensuring a gaming monitor worthy of the “first OLED” mantle.

While OLED screens are bright and beautiful, there are reasons for PC players to be skeptical. OLED TVs have historically been deeply susceptible to “burn-in,” a visual distortion where pixels become stuck displaying a certain shape after displaying it too long. Since many elements of a PC desktop are static on Windows 11 and macOS, there’s good reason to question whether OLED monitors would have a shorter lifespan than conventional monitors. 

With Alienware launching an OLED screen, though, it seems like burn-in isn’t the worry it once was. One YouTuber attempted to burn an image into the new Nintendo Switch OLED’s screen but only created faint ghosting after 3,600 hours of showing the exact same image. In other words, if you use a screensaver or let your display sleep, you’re almost certainly fine.

Best for Mac: LG 34WQ73A-B

Why it made the cut: The inclusion of a USB-C port makes it a breeze to connect this monitor to a Mac.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Curved
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Max brightness: 300 nits
  • Ports: 1 x USB-C (90W), 2 x USB-A (2.0), 1 x USB-B, 1 x Ethernet RJ45, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Out
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, Slant, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: N/A
  • HDR: HDR 10

Pros

  • USB-C port with video and charging
  • Height and tilt adjustment
  • USB-A ports make this monitor a hub

Cons

  • Non 4K resolution

We know what you’re thinking: Macs aren’t good machines for gaming, but that’s definitely not as true as it once was (have you even seen the Mac Studio specs). The Apple Arcade library and new-to-Mac titles like Resident Evil VII mean the Mac is steadily becoming a more competent platform for casual and AAA games. This is possible because the company’s M-series processors are far more graphically capable than the Intel machines the company shipped over the past five years or so. Unfortunately, one of its other design decisions holds the Mac back when it comes to connecting them to an external display.

Apple went all-in on USB-C with the release of its 12-inch MacBook in 2015, and many of its current-generation laptops can only connect to accessories using this port. This means most Mac owners who want to plug their computer into an external display must buy an adapter. LG’s 34WQ73A-B is a notable exception. This curved monitor has a USB-C port, allowing you to plug your MacBook directly into it using a single cable. The 34WQ73A-B’s USB-C port serves a dual purpose, too: The cable can charge your MacBook at a rate of up to 90W while it’s connected, so this is a true single-cable solution.

LG outfitted this monitor with a pair of HDMI ports, which can plug in a media streamer or game console like a TV. The 34WQ73A-B’s USB-A ports will allow you to connect accessories—think webcam or external hard drive—to your machine without a hub. Gamers who use this external display will appreciate its support for HDR 10 and the ability to display 99% of the sRGB spectrum. Height and tilt adjustment will allow you to position this monitor in a place that’s comfortable for you without the need to attach it to a VESA mount. Its resolution is less than 4K, but that’s true for most ultrawide monitor. What you give up in vertical pixels, you gain in horizontal ones.

The 34WQ73A-B’s USB-C port is the reason we’re recommending this monitor specifically for Mac owners, but it’s also a solid choice for Windows machines. Many PCs have started shipping with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4 ports—they’re the same shape, and the latter can send more data more quickly—which means they’d reap the same benefits with this monitor as Macs. Apple has released its own 5K monitor for the Mac, but the $1,499 Studio Display is nearly five times as expensive as LGs. If you want a relatively inexpensive monitor with Mac-friendly features, this is the one we recommend.

Best budget: Gigabyte M34WQ

Gigabyte M34WQ is the best budget ultrawide gaming monitor.

GIGABYTE

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Why it made the cut: You won’t find a good ultrawide display cheaper than the Gigabyte M34WQ.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Flat
  • Color depth: 8-bit
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 2x USB 3.0; 1 x USB Type-C
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Killer price
  • USB Type-C port
  • A bright IPS display

Cons

  • 8-bit color depth
  • Skip the HDR

The Gigabyte M34WQ is the definition of a budget pick: It delivers strong features for just $500 but comes with some technical compromises. The M34WQ offers a solid set of gamer-focused features like a 144Hz refresh rate and compatibility with both G-Sync and FreeSync. 

The cost of that low price is color depth. Most displays on this list feature 10-bit color, translating to over 1 billion colors. This is an 8-bit display with just 16.7 million. It’ll still look good, but you’re more likely to see color banding in some images. And don’t bother turning on the HDR. All that said, curved ultrawide gaming monitors don’t come cheap. You will be hard-pressed to find a better option at this price.

Things to consider before buying an ultrawide gaming monitor

There are a few things to remember as you pick out an ultrawide gaming monitor. Ultrawide displays, by definition, come in different aspect ratios than your average 16:9 widescreen monitor. Movies will feature black bars on the sides. Many apps, including games, will also if they don’t specifically support your screen size. Even when using apps that should work, ultrawide monitors require more tinkering than your average display. If the benefits still appeal, these are some things you should think about as you compare ultrawides.

Aspect ratio

Until the last couple of years, it was just a given that you’d want a standard widescreen display with a 16:9 aspect ratio. But now there are more options. In addition to 16:9, you’ll see lots of 21:9 (ultrawide) and a few 32:9 displays (super ultrawide) displays. Super ultrawide displays tend to be more expensive than ultrawide displays, and there are no cheap options: The prices start at $800 and go up rapidly. What you go with here comes down primarily to personal preference and budget. If you plan to game on this monitor, chances are that if your game supports 21:9, it will support 32:9 as well. 

With that said, many apps and services do not support ultrawide displays. There are a lot of advantages to ultrawide, but that 33% increase in screen space also means that 33% of your screen will be black bars when watching Netflix fullscreen. Most games support 21:9 and 32:9, but it isn’t universal. They’ll still look fine, you’ll just see those black bars again.

Do you want a curved display?

Many people go for an ultrawide monitor rather than two screens that you can position independently because they specifically want a curved monitor. A curved display can enhance the immersion of your games, making it feel like the game world is surrounding you. Our faces, it turns out, aren’t flat … nor are our eyes. According to monitor manufacturer ViewSonic, curved monitors can actually reduce distortion by making the entire display the same distance from our eyes, and this is especially the case with ultrawide screens, which put the edges of the screen even further from our faces. The curve also makes these screens more comfortable for our eyes, ViewSonic said. In reducing distortion, they also reduce the amount of time spent dealing with distortion and with moving our heads and eyes to the corners of the screen. 

With that said, curved screens are a bit of an acquired taste. They require more work to set up and optimize for individual games and software. They may also be more susceptible to glare than flat panels. The impact of both the upsides and the downsides comes down to personal taste. If you can, we recommend popping into your local electronics retailer and checking out a couple of curved monitors for yourself before making a decision.

Finding the right curve

If you decide to go with a curved display, you’ll need to think about how deep a curve you actually want. Some curved monitors bend lightly, giving you only the slightest sense that the screen forms around you. Others have a deep curve that makes you feel like you’re sitting in a cockpit. A monitor’s curve is measured by the radius of the monitor (R). 

It may be counterintuitive for those who’ve forgotten high school geometry, but a lower radius indicates a more pronounced curve. The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9, for example, sports a 1000R curve, making it one of the most deeply curved screens. Most ultrawide monitors sport a curvature of 1500-1800R, but very lightly curved displays reach as high as 3000R.

The radius of the monitor also indicates the recommended viewing distance, or how far away you should sit from it for the ideal viewing experience. Viewing position is especially important for curved displays, as sitting at the right distance, in front of the center of the display, guarantees that you see the full effect of the curve.

Brightness, color depth, and HDR

Beyond curve-related considerations, there’s a range of specs to consider when picking any gaming monitor. Picking among ultrawide gaming monitors limits your options for many display considerations, making them a secondary concern. That said, it never hurts to check and compare.

Gaming monitors are made with three different types of LCD panels—Vertical Alignment (VA), In-Plane Switching (IPS), and Twisted Nematic (TN). When shopping for ultrawide displays, you’ll typically find IPS or VA panels. IPS panels offer brighter, more vibrant colors, while VA panels typically have better contrast. Both panel types have great refresh rates. If there are any TN panels on Ultrawide screens, we didn’t find them during our research. Those panels have the fastest refresh rates but have poor viewing angles and color reproduction, making them ill-suited to this particular task.

Brightness is also a major concern; look for something at least 300 nits(cd/m2) for peak brightness. Any lower and you may struggle in particularly dark scenes of games. High-Dynamic Range, or HDR, isn’t widely implemented on ultrawide gaming monitors. Fewer than one-third of the ultrawide monitors on Newegg feature HDR support. On top of that, HDR isn’t always implemented as well as it is in TVs. Regardless of screen size, Windows isn’t as good at knowing when to switch between HDR and SDR. As a result, HDR is a nice luxury, but shouldn’t make or break your monitor selection.

For more in-depth explanations of monitor specs, including brightness, HDR, panel type, and more, check out the things to consider in our rundown of the best cheap gaming monitors.

Use case

Even when buying “gaming” gear, not many people use our PCs just for one thing. Are you going to use this computer for gaming primarily, or will you also be using it for work? If your monitor will just serve up games and the web, you can focus purely on refresh rate and gaming-focused features. If you’re creating content or using it for office work, you should also consider technical elements, such as color accuracy or blue light reduction. In general, it pays to take a holistic approach to picking out gear rather than focusing on one specific use, even if that use is more fun.

FAQs

Q: Are ultrawide monitors good for gaming?

Ultrawide monitors can be great for gaming, especially curved displays. A curved display will fill your field of vision more completely and, in theory, requires less head movement to view completely.

Q: Do 4K ultrawide monitors exist?

Not really. The term 4K refers to a specific resolution, 3840×2160, which you can only create with 16:9 displays. Thus, 4K and Ultrawide are two separate categories of display that can’t really meet. There are a few 2160p Ultra widescreen displays, but they have a wider resolution of 5120, so they don’t count as 4K. That said, you could display a 4K image on that screen without distortion.

Q: Is a 34-inch ultrawide monitor big enough?

Definitely. Most displays on this list measure 34 inches, and the only one bigger is classified as a Super Ultrawide. If you’re buying an ultrawide monitor, it’ll likely be 34 inches.

Q: How much does an ultrawide monitor cost?

This will depend on its features, but many ultrawide monitors cost under $500.

Q: Is it better to have two monitors or one ultrawide?

A two-monitor setup is more efficient for creative workflows—photo or video editing, writing, and general computing tasks—as it’ll allow you to dedicate an entire separate screen to chat or e-mail apps that need to be monitored while you’re working. Gaming is a single-screen activity, so a single ultrawide monitor makes more sense.

Q: What is the best size for an ultrawide monitor?

Most ultrawide monitors are between 32 and 34 inches in size, which are well-suited for gaming. A larger monitor will be more difficult to see.

Q: Does ultrawide affect FPS?

No, the graphics card and processor in your computer and the games you play will have the biggest impact on your game’s performance. That said, the monitor’s refresh rate is also a big factor: A 60Hz display won’t be able to play cutting-edge games at their full speed.

Final thoughts on the best ultrawide gaming monitors

If you have the cash, an ultrawide gaming monitor can be a great way to expand your desktop without using two displays. The options run the gamut from affordable daily drivers to premium monsters. The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 and Alienware QD-OLED are especially appealing options if you want to spend whatever it takes to get the best. For everyone else, our top and budget picks give you most of the same benefits, albeit with less impressive color space. Any of these options should make most any gamer a happy camper.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best ultrawide gaming monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> Control your Xbox by using your voice https://www.popsci.com/diy/voice-command-xbox/ Fri, 14 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=533991
An Xbox One S with a controller sitting on a white table.
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Don't stop your gameplay and control your Xbox with your voice instead.

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An Xbox One S with a controller sitting on a white table.
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You can go the traditional way of controlling your Xbox by using a gamepad or a mouse and keyboard. But you can also use your voice—just speak out the correct commands to easily open up menus and launch apps.

Voice control is managed through either Amazon’s Alexa (available for Android and iOS) or the Google Assistant (available for Android and iOS), so you’ll need to pick one and get the appropriate app installed on your phone.

Setting up your Xbox for voice control

If you have a Microsoft console launched at any point since 2013 (the list includes the Xbox One, the Xbox One S, the Xbox Series X, and the Xbox Series S), you’ll be able to set it up to react to voice commands.  

From the front page of the Xbox interface, pick Settings, go to Devices & connections, and then Digital assistants. Check the box marked Enable digital assistants and you’ll be ready to turn your attention to the Alexa or Google Home apps. Keep in mind that if you regularly use both platforms, there’s no need for you to pick only one, as you can use them in tandem if you want to.

[Related: Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles]

If you’re using Alexa, open the app and choose More and Skills & Games. Search for the Xbox skill and when you find it pick Enable to use. Amazon’s assistant will ask you to log into your Microsoft account to give it permission to interact with your console.

If you’re using the Google Assistant through the Google Home app, tap the + (plus) button in the top left corner, then choose Set up device and Works with Google. Search for and select the Xbox option, then link your Microsoft account.

Bear in mind that you won’t be directing your voice commands to your Xbox: You’ll be speaking to Alexa or the Google Assistant, and they will control the console based on your instructions. You can use your phone for this or, if you have one, you can also use another connected device like a smart speaker, as long as it’s connected to the same Amazon or Google account as the app on your phone.

There’s a nice bonus if you use the Google Assistant: Open the Google Home app, pick Xbox from the front page, and you’ll get an Xbox remote control on screen. You can use it to navigate around menus, adjust the volume, and turn the console on and off.

Using voice commands on your Xbox

The trigger words for your voice commands will depend on the digital assistant you’re using: it will either be “Alexa…” or “Hey, Google…”, followed by your instructions. You’re also going to need to include “Xbox” somewhere in there so the digital assistant knows what you’re referring to.

The simplest commands you can use are “turn Xbox on” or “turn Xbox off”. The only caveat is that for the former to work, your console needs to be in Sleep rather than Shutdown mode—you can set this up by going to General and Power options in Settings.

You can save yourself some time by using voice commands to launch games and apps as well. Just say “open [app or game] on Xbox” to have it come up on screen. Games with longer titles can be a bit of a mouthful, but Alexa and the Google Assistant are usually pretty good at understanding what you mean.

[Related: The best Xbox One controllers of 2023]

Another area where voice control can be really useful is in taking screenshots and capturing videos of gameplay. Just say “tell Xbox to take a screenshot” or “tell Xbox to record that” to launch the capturing features. You can also start and stop a live stream using your voice by saying “tell Xbox to start broadcasting” or “tell Xbox to stop broadcasting”.

When you’re not gaming, you can also use Alexa and the Google Assistant to control media playback. Say “pause Xbox” or “play Xbox” while watching movies or videos on streaming apps such as Netflix or YouTube. You can also control the volume with the commands “volume up on Xbox” or “volume down on Xbox”.

It’s also possible to see which of your friends are online, send messages, and set your online status. The only problem here is that the supported commands aren’t all the same on Alexa and the Google Assistant. For a full list of everything you can do on an Xbox with both digital assistants, check out Microsoft’s official command list.

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]]> The best multiplayer Switch games in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-multiplayer-switch-games/ Thu, 10 Mar 2022 14:01:17 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=428563
Mario Party Superstars
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The Nintendo Switch is an excellent multiplayer system and these are the best co-op and competitive games in its library.

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Mario Party Superstars
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Best local Best Multiplayer Switch Games Mario Party Superstars
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Casual and competitive, Mario Party Superstars is an easy way to make a low-key game night with friends feel like a raucous good time.
Best online co-op Best Multiplayer Switch Games Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
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Super Mario 3D World brings back a forgotten co-op gem from the Wii U.
Best fighting game Best Multiplayer Switch Games Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
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Easy to pick up and hard to master, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the epitome of a great fighting game.

The Nintendo Switch is a great console for playing games with friends and family. However, quickly browsing the Switch’s digital store can turn the act of picking out a new game to play with friends into a daunting task. If you’re struggling to find something new for game night on Switch, we’ve rounded up a list of multiplayer games that you can pick up right now, matter your tastes. Our list of the best multiplayer Switch games has something for everyone—whether you want a chill couch co-op game to play with friends, or you’re a hardcore player looking for your next online RPG or shooter fix—plus tips for buyers who want to make sure they’re buying the right game for them and their co-op partners.

How we picked the best multiplayer Switch games

As a reporter covering games for Gamespot, Digital Trends, and other gaming enthusiast outlets—as well as an avid Nintendo Switch player—I’ve played a wide variety of multiplayer Switch games. Our current picks reflect my extensive hands-on experience with the Switch, both personal and professional, and the tastes of my colleagues and other professional reviewers. These games have robust multiplayer modes in their respective categories, active online communities, and receive updates from their developers with new content, seasonal events, and/or technical patches to maintain gameplay systems and online stability. In short, we picked these games because we’ve played them a lot and really like them.

The best multiplayer Switch games: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding your next Nintendo Switch multiplayer game should always be an exciting time, but we understand if picking the right game for your friends and family can feel a bit stressful. If you’d like some concrete recommendations, our list is full of different kinds of games that should be great for all kinds of gamers, whether you’re playing with one friend or a big group, in person or online. These are among the best games on Switch—multiplayer or otherwise—and there’s something here for everyone, from die-hard action RPG and fighting game fans to casual players that prefer puzzles and party games.

Best local multiplayer: Mario Party Superstars

Best Multiplayer Switch Games

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Why it made the cut: Mario Party Superstars is the perfect casual game to play during a night in with some friends or when you’re hosting a family-friendly event and need something everyone can play together. 

Specs 

  • Genre: Board game/mini-game collection
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Online and offline)
  • Age Rating: E (Everyone)
  • NSO requirement: Yes (For online play)

Pros

  • Simple rules and controls
  • Family-friendly gameplay featuring popular Super Mario characters
  • Dice rolls and other random events keep gameplay fair
  • Variable match lengths and rulesets

Cons

  • Some players may find the randomness unfair
  • Nothing new for longtime fans

Based on Nintendo’s favorite franchise, Mario Party Superstars is a light and breezy collection of minigames played as part of a digital board game. This title features classic Nintendo characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach, plus lesser-known ones like Princess Daisy. After selecting a character, stage, and number of turns, each player rolls a die to determine the order of play.

Each turn consists of players rolling a die in the hopes of reaching a space with a star, which can be purchased with 20 coins. Coins are earned by playing a minigame at the end of each turn, or landing on a blue space on the virtual game board. The board is littered with other spaces, which include item shops, Bowser spots, and “!” squares, which liven up gameplay.

The quick, easy-to-learn minigames do impact your performance in the board game, but Mario Party also injects a fair (or unfair, depending on who’s asking) degree of random boosts and penalties that keep everyone on their toes for the whole game.

We prefer playing Mario Party Superstars with others in person—the trash talk and antics are just more fun when you’re sitting next to everyone on the couch—but its online infrastructure is among the best on the Switch, so it’s also a great game to play online if you’re understandably avoiding social events right now. 

Best online co-op: Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

Best Multiplayer Switch Games

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Mario’s latest adventure features two unique gameplay modes, masterful level design, and some of the best online co-op platforming you’ll find on any console. 

Specs

  • Genre: 3D platformer
  • Number of players: 1-4 players online or locally
  • Rating: E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • The best version of Super Mario 3D World
  • Smart levels designed for solo or co-op play
  • All-new Bowser’s Fury mode is excellent

Cons

  • Later 3D World levels can be difficult for novice players.
  • Bowser’s Fury mode has limited multiplayer options

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is one of those rare games that can appeal to just about anyone. This double feature pairs a revamped port of the Wii U’s Super Mario 3D World with an all-new mini-campaign, Bowser’s Fury. Both games feature multiplayer components, but Super Mario 3D World seamlessly weaves crowd-pleasing co-op into the core experience.

In Super Mario 3D World, players can control one of four iconic characters—including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad—and set out on an adventure across dozens of unique levels, each with its own unique gameplay twist. The level variety keeps things fresh, while the challenging (but never brutally difficult) layouts keep you and your friends on your toes. The 3D World part of this package is basically a traditional Super Mario game, where the object is to run through levels while traversing obstacles like pits and lava while defeating classic enemies like goombas and koopas. Anyone familiar with Super Mario games—going back to the original Super Mario Bros. will be familiar with this format, though Nintendo has refined the series’ mechanics over the decades.

Bowser’s Fury, on the other hand, is the first truly “open world” experience this franchise has ever seen. The main player controls Mario as he navigates between different islands completing challenges to earn Cat Coins and Cat Shines, items required to turn the pint-sized plumber into a gargantuan Cat Mario, which allows him to take on a gargantuan Bowser who’s seemingly lost his mind. The second player can control Bowser Jr., who begrudgingly befriends Mario for this adventure to restore his father to his senses. Bowser Jr. flies around in a flying machine and can whack enemies with his paintbrush, and while this second player slot is perfect for younger players, adults will find a lot to like about it too. It’s a lot easier to navigate through tough challenges as a team rather than going at them alone.

Our only complaint about Bowser’s Fury is that it’s too short, clocking in at around three to four hours for experienced players. Still, it’s a fun adventure suitable for players of all ages and is hopefully a harbinger for things to come in the franchise’s future.

Best indie: Overcooked: All You Can Eat Edition 

Best Multiplayer Switch Games

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Why it made the cut: Overcooked’s cute and cartoony exterior belies the fast-paced puzzle game hidden within. This co-op cooking game tests your gaming skills as much as your communication skills.

Specs

  • Genre: Puzzle/Action game
  • Number of players: 1-4 (local or online)
  • Rating: E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • Simple controls and gameplay mechanics
  • Novel puzzle design emphasizing cooperation and communication
  • Family-friendly art style and setting

Cons

  • Challenging to play online without chat

Overcooked takes the fast-paced excitement of running a restaurant kitchen and turns it into a hectic co-op puzzle game. A team of 2-4 players prepares and cooks various dishes in kitchens with all kinds of outlandish obstacles: You’ll sling burgers in underground mines riddled with pitfalls, roll sushi on a floating raft, and whip up pancakes on alien planets. Some levels have players leaping between platforms to reach different parts of the kitchen, throwing ingredients to teammates from across the screen, or warping between workstations, all while orders and dishes pile up. Overcooked: All You Can Edition combines the levels from Overcooked and Overcooked 2, adds cross-platform online play, and more.

The gameplay can get hectic, but it’s simple enough that players of any skill level can quickly grok the controls and rise to meet each level’s new challenges. The game supports online and local co-op and competitive modes. It’s definitely a local-first experience, though, especially on Switch. Constant communication between teammates is crucial, so online cooking crews should plan on using Discord or another third-party chat service.

Best online RPG: Monster Hunter Rise

Best Multiplayer Switch Games

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Why it made the cut: Few games match the high of hunting ferocious creatures with your friends in Monster Hunter, and Monster Hunter Rise brings some of the best hunting to Switch.

Specs 

  • Genre: Action RPG
  • Number of players: 1 player (offline); 1-4 players (online)
  • Age Rating: T for Teen
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • Tons of single- and multiplayer content
  • SImplest online connectivity in the series yet.
  • Plenty of upcoming updates and DLC content will add even more value

Cons

  • Can be challenging to learn for first-time players
  • Online matchmaking 

The Nintendo Switch has plenty of excellent multiplayer RPGs—including Warframe, Diablo 2 and 3, and Torchlight 3, all of which were considered for this category—but Monster Hunter Rise currently stands as the system’s best online RPG. The latest in the beloved, long-running Monster Hunter series, Rise asks you and a team of up to three friends to track and slay giant monsters. Felling a beast rewards you with materials used to upgrade and craft new weapons and armor, including giant swords, axes, and hammers, so you can go off and hunt stronger enemies.

Despite its simplicity, the Monster Hunter formula creates a deeply engaging cycle of preparation, action-packed hunting, and character customization. And, while hunting monsters can get repetitive, those quests give you time to master the various tools and weapons at your disposal so you can better stalk your intimidating prey.

Best online racing game: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Best Switch Multiplayer Games

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the biggest Mario Kart game yet, sporting an active online community and tons of local head-to-head game modes for offline matches.

Specs

  • Genre: Racing game
  • Number of players: 1-4 offline; up to 12 players online
  • Rating: Rated E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • Tons of content and game modes
  • Variable difficulty settings of online and offline races
  • Can play locally on a single Switch via split-screen mode

Cons

  • Rehashed content may be underwhelming to long-time fans
  • Need to pay for upcoming DLC content

Is there any more quintessentially “Nintendo” multiplayer game than the Mario Kart franchise? The Switch version, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, is actually an enhanced port of Mario Kart 8 for the Wii U. Injected with more gameplay modes and enhanced with better online multiplayer, there’s more Mario Kart in Deluxe than any other version. You can race in 48 new and returning tracks, plus eight battle arenas for competitive modes, using a wide array of Nintendo characters ranging from Mario and Luigi to crossovers like Link from The Legend of Zelda, the Inkling from Splatoon, and Isabell from Animal Crossing. 

What’s more, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will receive much more support over the next year. Nintendo recently announced a series of premium updates that will add an additional 48 new tracks over the coming months and into 2023, so you know people will continue playing online for a long time.

Best competitive puzzle game: Tetris 99

Best Multiplayer Switch Games

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Why it made the cut: Tetris 99 is a refreshing, large-scale multiplayer reinvention of the impeccable gameplay we all know so well.

Specs

  • Genre: Puzzle game
  • Number of players: Up to 99 players per online match
  • Rating: Rated E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes (included as a perk of the NSO subscription)

Pros

  • Multiplayer matches are a novel spin on Tetris gameplay
  • Seasonal events and daily challenges keep the game fresh
  • Included with Nintendo Switch Online subscription

Cons

  • Online matches can be overwhelming if you’re new to Tetris
  • Only available to active NSO subscribers

Tetris 99 turns the classic block-dropping puzzle game into a massive “battle royale”-style competition. Rather than simply playing to beat your own score, you arrange blocks and clear lines to send junk blocks and jam up the 98 other players who are all trying to hold out as long as possible.

Some may find the idea of hyper-competitive online Tetris to be too overwhelming. However, even if you’re one of the bottom 98 players, you still gain points that unlock new cosmetic items like stage backgrounds, music tracks, and player icons. The game also offers daily and weekly challenges that don’t necessarily require ranking number one on the leaderboards to complete. 

Tetris 99 is a “free” perk of the Switch’s Nintendo Switch Online subscription. There’s currently no way to buy and play Tetris 99 without NSO, but the game is good enough that we could easily recommend subscribing for a little while just to play it.

Best online shooter: Splatoon 3

Splatoon 3

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Splatoon 2’s unique spin on online shooters is as vibrant and colorful as it is competitive, and one you can only play on Nintendo Switch.

Specs

  • Genre: Third-person shooter
  • Number of players: 1-4 offlines; 1-8 online
  • Rating: E10+ for players 10 and older
  • NSO requirement: yes

Pros

  • Unique arena-control gameplay
  • Plenty of unique weapons and strategies to try
  • Multiple competitive, co-op, and single-player modes

Cons

  • The first-person shooter genre requires a fair amount of skill.

Splatoon 3 is unique among shooters. Rather than focusing on blasting your opponents like in Fortnite or Overwatch—both solid shooters also on Switch—Splatoon 3 is all about shooting the arena with paint. Each four-person team has its own paint color, the team with the most paint on the floors and walls at the end of the match wins. Weapons range from paintball and squirt gun-like “firearms,” to giant paint rollers and paint grenades. Of course, these weapons can also knock out other players for a few seconds, giving you a window to coat the level without interference. 

Older competitive shooter fans might brush the game off for its family-friendly aesthetic. Still, the bevy of unique weapon types, character loadouts, and gameplay modes (including ranked matched) will appeal to hardcore players. If you’re not in a competitive mood, there is the 4-player co-op horde mode Salmon Run and a single-player campaign focusing on platforming and puzzles utilizing the game’s paint-based weapons. 

Best multiplayer fighting game: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Console Gaming photo

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Why it made the cut: Beneath Super Smash Bros Ultimate’s massive character roster and layers of gaming history and references is a fun platform fighter that can appeal to players of all skill levels.

Specs

  • Genre: Platform fighting game
  • Number of players: 1-8 players online and locally
  • Rating: T for Teen
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • A massive roster featuring beloved characters from throughout video game history
  • Custom game modes and gameplay options to suit every player’s skill level
  • Robust single-player content to complement the multiplayer modes
  • Tons gaming trivia and history to unlock

Cons

  • Finding and learning a new character can be overwhelming.
  • Online matches will be challenging for new players.

The memes were right: Super Smash Bros Ultimate is one of the biggest video game crossovers ever made. Including paid DLC content, there are 89 playable characters, 114 stages, and hundreds of songs, trophies, and other references from franchises across all of video game history. It’s not just Nintendo either; Characters owned by Microsoft, Square Enix, Capcom, SNK, Sega, Konami, and more all make appearances. 

More than a video game museum, though, Super Smash Bros Ultimate is one of the great fighting games. A “platform fighter” that revolves around simple but precise movements and attacks. Without any combos to learn, it is very easy to figure out the basics but takes months or even years to master.

Multiplayer Matches can support up to 8 players (or AI-controlled opponents) in team-based or free-for-all bouts. Specialty arenas and randomly appearing items mix things up even further, ensuring that you can always find a new way to play. (That said, did I mention that there are nearly 90 characters?)

Best multiplayer action RPG: Diablo 3 Eternal Collection

Diablo 3 Eternal Collection

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Why it made the cut: Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection brings one of the revered action RPG franchises to a Nintendo console for the first time.

Specs 

  • Genre: Action RPG (Role Playing Game)
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Local and Online)
  • Age Rating: M (Mature)
  • NSO requirement: Yes (For online play)

Pros

  • Fast-paced gameplay that keeps players continually engaged
  • Large stable of character types, which allows for a lot of customizability
  • Several difficulty levels extend replay value

Cons

  • Not suitable for all audiences

There was a time when the idea of a Diablo game on a Nintendo console would have been unthinkable, but thankfully that’s no longer the case. The latest entry in Activision Blizzard’s classic action RPG feels right at home on Switch, and the ability to play this title on the go gives it a leg up over higher fidelity versions on other consoles or the PC.

There’s no way to sugarcoat this: Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection throws you into a literal fight with the devil, which develops over the course of several chapters. There are no classic Nintendo characters to be found in this dark world, but you do have the ability to customize a character from one of several classes. The character class you choose will impact how you make your way through the game. A barbarian, for example, will attack enemies at close range with classic weapons. Conversely, a witch will take down foes using magic from a safe distance.

The gameplay loop in Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection revolves around defeating hoards of enemies and completing quests to advance the story and acquire new weapons, armor, and accessories to strengthen your character. You can play this entire game solo, but playing with up to three friends on the couch or online can make the adventure even better. The game will automatically scale its difficulty, so there’ll always be challenging sections—especially boss battles. This game isn’t for everyone, but players who want a fast-paced title set in a dark world will find a lot to like, especially if you replay the story at a higher difficulty or a different character class. The option to play with friends makes Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection that much more enjoyable.

Best multiplayer sports game: Mario Strikers: Battle League

Mario Strikers- Battle League

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Why it made the cut: Mario Strikers: Battle League is the perfect sports game for players who favor style and originality over rigid rule sets.

Specs 

  • Genre: Sports
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Online and offline)
  • Age Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 years or older)
  • NSO requirement: Yes (For online play)

Pros

  • Simple rules and controls
  • Growing roster of characters and stages
  • Surprisingly deep customizability

Cons

  • Only for fans of soccer

Nintendo has done a great job designing a host of sports games that feature characters from the Super Mario franchise, often with fun, fantastical twists. The reason we recommend these titles over more traditional sports games from the Madden or FIFA series is that the Switch isn’t powerful enough to play these games at their highest fidelity. Developers design those games for the Xbox and PlayStation, then release a less advanced version for the Switch. Luckily, Nintendo’s sports games fill in the gaps very well.

Mario Strikers: Battle League is the first entry in Nintendo’s soccer game series in 15 years, and we couldn’t be happier to see it return. The game follows the general rules of the classic sport—two teams try to get a ball into the back of their opponent’s net without using their hands—but that’s where the similarities end. Players in Battle League can use items like koopa shells and special attacks to smash the ball across the court in flashy style. The game’s physics aren’t particularly realistic either, making this game feel equal parts Super Mario and Space Jam. The fun of creating a soccer team containing fantastical characters like Mario, Bowser, and Yoshi and watching them face off against Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad is bliss. This is especially true when playing the game with other people, which makes the experience even more frenzied.

Fans of soccer will get a kick out of Mario Strikes: Battle League if they can suspend their disbelief enough to embrace the chaos. Surprisingly enough, this game’s multiplayer modes are complemented by a pretty solid single-player campaign and character upgrade system, which allows you to unlock new gear to change your player’s stats. The grind to get new gear will keep players coming back, especially since Nintendo has periodically updated this title with new stages and characters.

Best multiplayer minigame collection: WarioWare: Get It Together!

WarioWare- Get It Together!

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Why it made the cut: WarioWare: Get It Together! is the latest entry in Nintendo’s oddest franchise, and its frenetic gameplay makes it a blast to play with your friends.

Specs 

  • Genre: Mini-game collection
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Offline)
  • Age Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 years or older)
  • NSO requirement: No

Pros:

  • The game moves at a brisk pace
  • Irreverent humor hits more often than it misses
  • Mini-games are varied enough that you won’t get bored

Cons:

  • Fast-paced gameplay may make it a little difficult for new players

WarioWare: Get It Together! is a very weird game, but if you and your friends have a silly sense of humor you’ll have a lot of fun with it. The WarioWare series requires you to continually complete a series of rapid-fire minigames that come at you one after another. Games only last five seconds, which means you’ll have to see, understand, and complete the objective very quickly to advance. Thankfully, most of the mini-games are very simple, like using your Joy-Con controller to shake a tree to make apples fall, or tearing off a person’s face mask. The game’s art style is colorful, and the selection of games is really fun. Only boss stages, which happen after you’ve completed roughly 15 minigames, can get challenging.

Wario is the only mainline Nintendo character in this game. Still, he’s joined by friends that are present in other WarioWare titles, so you’ll be familiar with them if you’re experienced with the franchise. These side characters are full of personality, and WarioWare isn’t shy about showcasing their style. Our favorite character is Jimmy-T, a blue-haired disco lover whose mustache is shaped like musical notes at the end of it. All of the minigames in WarioWare: Get It Together! were designed to be played by a single person, but adding a second makes it even more fun. The ability to divide and conquer tasks requires constant communication, keeping players on their toes.

There’s a lot of fun to be had with this game, but folks unfamiliar with the franchise, or gaming in general, may require a little help to get started. Having to play game after game after game in quick succession does require a fair amount of dexterity, but once you get into a rhythm you may find it hard to put the controllers down.

Things to consider before buying one of the best multiplayer Switch games

There’s a wider set of things to think about before picking out a game to play with other people. Beyond the simple question, “does this seem fun,” you want to ensure that you’re setting yourself and, potentially, your friends up to have a good time. Depending on the situation, you should see if you’ll need any extra gear or an internet connection.

Skill level

The most important element of any multiplayer game is, of course, your friends. If you plan to play with a specific group of people, make sure you take everyone’s taste into account when looking for your group’s next game. Video games range not just in content, but also in gameplay style and complexity: Some players will find some genres more fun or accessible than others. For instance, a first-time player may struggle with memorizing complicated inputs. Other players may prefer the gameplay of a combat-heavy action game rather than a racing game. 

Local vs. online multiplayer

Speaking of online versus offline games, make sure you check whether you need an internet connection, as both come with their own considerations. Some Switch games are made specifically for local play, while others are designed for online play. 

Local multiplayer or couch co-op games are made for playing at home on a single device. (There are a few games where you can connect multiple Switches locally, but those are exceptions, not the rule.) There’s no extra setup for playing Switch games locally, but you will need to have enough controllers and, more importantly, everyone will need to be in the same place.

When playing games with friends online, you and all your friends need to own the game and connect your Switch consoles to the internet. In most cases, you will also all need active Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions.

Online multiplayer on Switch is also made somewhat more complicated than other consoles because it lacks a meaningful infrastructure for in-game or party chat. While some online multiplayer games are playable with little-to-no communication between players, many require strategic coordination with your teammates. Select titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Splatoon 2 support voice chat through the Nintendo Voice mobile phone app, but it’s difficult to use. You’re better off organizing a group call in Discord, the gaming-centric communication platform, or another app with group voice chat support.

Nintendo Switch Online

Most online multiplayer games require a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online, the company’s internet utility service. The base service, which costs $4 per month or $20 per year, allows you to play all online-compatible multiplayer games over the internet, gives you access to cloud storage, and a limited library of NES and SNES games, among other things. A premium subscription, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, offers a wider range of retro games and covers the cost of access to extra content for certain popular Nintendo games, including Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

A small number of online multiplayer games—including Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Knockout City—do not require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access online features. 

Number of controllers

In addition to Nintendo Switch Online, many multiplayer games may require extra hardware. The standard Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED come with two Joy-Cons to support 2-player modes, but you’ll need more if you plan to play with 3 or 4 people total. Some local multiplayer games may require each player to have two Joy-Cons, so you may need extras or a Switch Pro Controller. 

Age rating

If you’re buying a game to play with a group that includes kids, you may want to ensure the game is suitable for everyone involved. All games on the Switch are rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board, or the ESRB, so you can check for questionable content at a glance. The ESRB’s ratings are easy to read and clearly labeled on a game’s box or eShop page, and there’s a handy guide for parents available on the ESRB’s website that details each of the ratings and content warnings.

FAQs

Q: How much does a multiplayer Switch game cost?

New Nintendo Switch games typically cost $60 at launch, though independent games may cost less. For an additional fee, many games also feature premium downloadable content, or DLC.

Q: Can you play Fortnite on Nintendo Switch?

Yes. Fortnite is available as a free download from the Nintendo Switch eShop. It is one of the few games that does not require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to connect to the internet.

Q: What Nintendo Switch Mario game is the best?

Everybody has their own favorite Mario game. If we look at the data, however … Super Mario Odyssey is the highest-rated traditional Mario game on the Switch. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the highest-rated Mario spin-off title.

Q: What is the best multiplayer Switch game for kids?

Most of Nintendo’s first-party published games are made for all ages. In addition to our recommendations from this list, we’re partial to Super Mario Odyssey and Mario’s many sports games, including Mario Golf: Super Rush and Mario Tennis Aces.

Final thoughts on the best multiplayer Switch games

Best local multiplayer: Mario Party Superstars
Best online co-op: Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Best indie: Overcooked: All You Can Eat Edition 
Best online RPG: Monster Hunter Rise
Best online racing game: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Best competitive puzzle game: Tetris 99
Best online shooter: Splatioon 3
Best fighting game: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Best action RPG: Diablo 3 Eternal Collection
Best sports game: Mario Strikers: Battle League
Best minigame collection: WarioWare: Get It Together!

The Nintendo Switch is one of the best-selling video game consoles of all time, thanks to its incredible library of games—multiplayer and otherwise. The handful we’ve covered here just scratches the surface of all the great games it supports that you can play with friends, but you’ll find it’s a really fun surface to scratch.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best multiplayer Switch games in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles https://www.popsci.com/reviews/xbox-series-x-vs-ps5/ Mon, 11 Apr 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=436515
Xbox Series X vs PS5
Mike Epstein

Choose the perfect console for your gaming with our handy guide.

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Xbox Series X vs PS5
Mike Epstein

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The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X launched in November 2020. That may sound old in the gadget world, but it will likely be several more years before these machines reach their full potential. Due to supply chain issues and a host of global complications, these devices haven’t always been easy to buy: you couldn’t simply waltz into a store after release and walk out with one tucked under your arm. Supply has improved dramatically of late, but, with a string of awesome exclusive games tied to each and a selection of promising new features that immerse you deeper in the gaming experience, it’s worth digging into the details to discover which next-gen console is right for you.

Xbox Series X vs PS5: Welcome to the ninth generation of video game consoles

As graphics technology edges closer and closer to uncanny realism, competition within each video game console generation is hotter than ever. It can feel like splitting hairs, but there are some key differences in approach between the PS5 and Xbox Series X that we’re going to identify to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Xbox Series X

Xbox Series X vs PS5

Mike Epstein

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Specs

  • Price: $499
  • Memory: 16 GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Storage expansion: Seagate SSD expansion cards (512GB-2TB)
  • GPU power: 12.14 Teraflops
  • CPU speed: 3.8 GHz (3.6 GHz with SMT)
  • Dimensions: 5.94 x 11.85 x 5.94 inches
  • Weight: 9.8 lbs
  • Ports: 3 x USB type-A, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet

The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s latest effort and the most powerful next-gen console on the market, with a whopping 12 teraflops of raw power. It’s capable of playing games in 4K at up to 120 frames per second, so you’ll be able to enjoy the detailed fidelity and fluid frame rate of beautiful exclusives like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5. The reserved mini-fridge-shaped design of the Series X is a shift from previous generations but—great news—the console still looks very sleek and unassuming when it’s nestled in your TV stand. 

Aside from better graphics and higher frame rate, the most obvious improvement of the Xbox Series X has to be faster load times. The console’s 1TB solid-state drive boots software and powers through loading screens almost instantly for many games. You can also make use of the Xbox operating system’s Quick Resume function, introduced with the Series X, which suspends save states for up to three Xbox Series X games, and more for backward-compatible games. Quick Resume allows you to jump back in right where you left off, whether or not you saved your game.

But Xbox’s secret weapon this generation is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft’s game subscription service lets you access hundreds of games, including all of Microsoft’s first-party exclusives, for $10 to $15 per month (depending on your subscription renewal option). Xbox’s adoption of the service model helps to take the sting out of the old method of paying retail prices for multiple games every year, as long as you’re ok with adding another bill to your monthly expenses.

PlayStation 5

Xbox Series X vs PS5

Mike Epstein

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Specs

  • Price: Digital Edition: $399 / Standard (with disc drive): $499
  • Memory: 16 GB
  • Storage: 825GB SSD
  • Storage expansion: Select M.2 SSD
  • GPU power: 10.28 Teraflops
  • CPU speed: 3.5 GHz
  • Dimensions: 15.4 x 10.24 x 4.09 inches
  • Weight: 8.6 lbs
  • Ports: 1 x USB type-C, 3 x USB type-A, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet

A highly coveted piece of tech, the PlayStation 5 is also a monumentally powerful game console. With 10 teraflops of GPU power, the console chews through graphically intensive exclusives like Returnal, Gran Turismo 7, and Horizon: Forbidden West. Like the Series X, the PS5’s SSD trivializes loading times, letting you fast-travel around open-world maps in seconds. With an 825GB storage drive, you’ll be able to download several chunky games before it gets full, with expandable storage available if you wish to grow your persistent library even further.

Sony has pulled focus onto immersion for this generation, a mantra delivered most acutely through the DualSense controller, with its remarkable vibration technology, tactile adaptive triggers, and built-in speaker. The PS5’s Tempest Engine delivers 3D Audio through TV speakers or any headset, which brings players closer to in-game soundscapes and environments. 

In 2022, Sony made a big leap in catching up to Microsoft’s Game Pass Ultimate offering. PS Plus Premium costs $18 per month (or as low as $79 per year if you’re willing to pay annually). It grants access to online play, as well as a catalog of current games and a backlog of classic games from PlayStations of yore.

At $399 for the digital edition and $499 for the standard PS5 with a disc drive, consumers have options depending on the way that they consume games, without having to sacrifice any raw power. But perhaps the most divisive thing about the PS5 is its physical design. The console is anything but subtle, with its white over-extending plastic plates and griddle middle. Given how hard it’s been to find, I imagine there are plenty of people who don’t mind displaying it prominently, like an e-commerce trophy.

Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How do they stack up?

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The Xbox Series X and PS5, side by side. Mike Epstein

Xbox and PlayStation have locked horns for decades and the competition remains fierce in this console generation. To help you see past the hype, we’re going to hone in on some major areas where the two titans differ, so you know what console to buy.

Understanding the differences between each console’s design and technical performance is important, but the content is the most important dynamic in the current gaming landscape. The Xbox Series X and the PS5 differ in their approach to services and software, with gulfs in quality and quantity on either side.

Are you looking for a Criterion Collection of excellent exclusives or just a huge library of good games to play on your new console? Do things like backward compatibility or virtual reality matter to you? And, crucially, how much is this all going to cost? Let’s see what they have to offer.

Parts and performance

The Xbox Series X and the PS5 are closer in power and performance than they look on paper. Sure, the Series X is technically more powerful but the bumps in frame rate and fidelity feel relatively minor in many games. You probably aren’t going to notice a graphical difference between the two in most games. They’re both capable of running games in 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second. (Both Sony and Microsoft say the consoles are capable of 8K in theory, but the option isn’t available now without an asterisk.) Neither one will make you regret pairing it with one of the best gaming TVs on the market. Both machines’ performance, ultimately, comes down to how developers use the consoles to create software that makes the most of their parts.

Beyond the spec sheets, though, the Series X passes on some practical benefits from its extra power. For example, it can suspend multiple games using Quick Resume, so, for example, you can play and suspend Psychonauts 2, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and Elden Ring, then jump back into any of them where you left off. The PS5, meanwhile, can only suspend the game that you’re currently playing. As we mentioned, it doesn’t take long for the PS5’s SSD to boot up your game from scratch but you do need to be more mindful of saves and potential lost progress.

Storage

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The Xbox Series X supports proprietary storage expansion cards (left), while the PS5 works with some off-the-shelf M.2 solid-state drives (right). Mike Epstein

Usable storage is another factor to think about. The Xbox may have 1TB of storage, but you can only use around 802GB of it. The PS5 has 825GB of storage, but you can only use around 667GB of it. Storage expansion is really helpful for both consoles, so you could argue this comes out as a wash. On the other hand, that extra 135GB should translate to an extra two to three games (or Call of Duty: Vanguard).

The PS5 has less storage space but it makes up for it with its approach to upgradable internal memory. If you’re OK with opening up your PS5, you can purchase and slot one of several third-party M.2 SSD drives in there and expand your storage with relative ease. The Xbox Series X takes a different approach, with a proprietary, expensive Seagate expansion card that inserts into a dedicated slot in the back of the console.

Design and ports

These two consoles could not look any more different. The PS5 is space-age and alien, whereas the Xbox Series X is reserved and brutalist. The PS5’s size and wacky contours can be off-putting or inviting depending on your style, whereas the Xbox is hard to grumble at with its space-saving, sleek approach. The only difference between the ports is that the PS5 offers a USB-C input, which is some solid future-proofing and handy for fast-charging

Peripherals

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The PS5 DualSense and 4th-generation Xbox controller, side by side. (Note: The Xbox Series X comes with a black controller.) Mike Epstein

Sony’s focus on immersion in this generation has birthed the DualSense, a USB-C PS5 controller that delivers convincing haptic vibrations, adaptive triggers, and internal audio that makes meaningful strides toward full gaming immersion by enhancing moment-to-moment gameplay features. Guns jamming will be reflected in the triggers, as will the tensile pull of a bow or a web in open-world games. You can feel raindrops and the pitter-patter of feet in your palms and the controller’s speaker will augment in-game audio. Given the technical plateau between the consoles, this is easily a big win for the PlayStation 5 when it comes to providing a next-gen feeling. (Sony’s Pulse 3D gaming headset is also purpose-tuned for the PS5’s 3D Audio and a spatial-in-game experience.)

The Xbox Series X controller is the same design seen in previous generations but that means it is also one of the most ubiquitous and accessible controllers on the market. The haptics are still solid, and this time around there’s a USB-C port, a share button, and some textured paneling, which is a nice touch. At the end of the day, both controllers feel great and are perfect for playing games, but if you care about fancy features and immersion, the DualSense is delightful.

Software and services

Any expert will tell you that, when it comes to picking a game console, content is king. Xbox and PlayStation share some common ground but do vary in approach when it comes to software and services.

Over the last generation, Sony has delivered a consistent catalog of critically acclaimed and forward-thinking exclusive games and franchises like Bloodborne, God of War, The Last of Us, Uncharted, Marvel’s Spider-Man, and more. Sony cultivated a strong reputation on PS4 and it’s hard to ignore the sheer quality of its output. In its short lifespan so far, Sony has already started to do the same on PS5 with games like Deathloop, Demon’s Souls, and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. Hard to argue with how the console has delivered in the software department for early adopters, and there are coveted games in development from Sony’s crop of acquired first-party studios, such as God of War: Ragnarok and Star Wars Eclipse.

Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, one of our favorite games, is only available on PS5.

Xbox, meanwhile, struggled with game development for most of the Xbox One generation. However, Microsoft’s acquisitions of Bethesda, Activision Blizzard, and many other game developers have pushed things in the right direction. Microsoft now holds the keys to franchises like Call of Duty, The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and more, with many exciting new games in development from its vault of acquired studios, which, under the Xbox Game Studios banner, dwarf the size of PlayStation Studios. 

Recent exclusives like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 have also been critical success stories, which has helped Microsoft’s reputation considerably. To date, Microsoft has also championed backward compatibility over Sony and Nintendo, making the large swaths of the original Xbox and Xbox 360 playable natively, in addition to nearly the entire Xbox One library. Sony aims to close this gap with its upcoming PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, but its support is currently somewhat limited.

On the other hand, Sony has virtual reality, via its PlayStation VR headset. PlayStation VR 2 is on the horizon. Xbox has never released a VR headset or games.

Xbox Game Pass vs. PlayStation Plus

The next front of the “console war” between PlayStation and Xbox will be content subscriptions. Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a ridiculously good deal, offering a massive library of 450+ games to players for $14.99, including all of Xbox’s first-party and exclusive games on day one of their release. It’s worth noting that the subscription includes a separate Xbox Game Pass for PC library available on Windows, online multiplayer access, cloud gaming, monthly free games, and other discounts. It’s hard to grumble at Microsoft’s offering, especially if you aren’t keen on spending $60-$80 every time a game comes out.

Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass subscription lets you play Xbox exclusives like Halo Infinite the day they come out for no additional cost.

Right now, Sony doesn’t have an equivalent service. Previously, it had two services that offered parts of the package: PlayStation Plus, which enabled online multiplayer and a monthly trio of games for $9.99 a month, and PlayStation Now, which offered limited streaming games on PS4 and PS5 for another $9.99.

Sony combined these services into a single, three-tiered PlayStation Plus subscription in June 2022. The first tier, PlayStation Plus Essential, is the same as the previous PlayStation Plus membership. The second, PlayStation Plus Extra, adds a catalog of up to 400 games to this deal for $14.99 a month. The top tier, PlayStation Plus Premium, goes further, adding 340 additional backward-compatible games from previous PlayStation generations for $17.99 a month, available via cloud streaming or digital download. Crucially, Sony has said that neither PlayStation Extra nor the PlayStation Premium subscriptions will include new exclusive games on release day.

Right now, there’s no question that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the superior subscription. It offers more games, a better value, and a pathway to playing the games you want. It’s hard to say whether the new PlayStation Plus will level the playing field, but Sony does have an advantage in its pipeline of amazing first-party exclusives. Sony said it will ardently try to preserve its level of quality as it slides into game streaming service territory, but is also adapting with the addition of a game library and backward compatibility in the future. The choice may come down to quality or quantity.

Price

The PlayStation 5 is the clear winner when it comes to value for money if you’re not bothered about having a disc drive. The digital edition of the PS5 (with no technical compromises) retails at $399, cutting $100 off of the flat retail price of the $499 Xbox Series X. When comparing the disc drive-based PS5 and the Xbox Series X, though, they’re in a dead heat. 

The next step is to consider the Game Pass library versus Sony’s exclusives and the future of PlayStation Plus. Xbox Game Pass costs $15 per month, or $180 per year. PlayStation Plus Extra will cost the same monthly rate but only costs $100 per year if you pay annually. PlayStation Plus Premium will cost $17 per month, or $120 per year if you pay annually. That’s a significant saving, but it doesn’t factor in that you may wind up buying PlayStation exclusives if you want to play them when they come out.

There are many intangibles that we can’t predict for you when considering Xbox Series X versus PS5—how excited you’ll be for specific exclusives, how disciplined you are about waiting to buy games on sale, or how much money you might save by trading physical copies of games in when you’re done with them. And, of course, your budget.

Some final thoughts on the Xbox Series X vs. PS5

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The Xbox Series X and PS5 are both amazing consoles, but one may suit your needs more than the other. Mike Epstein

The PS5 and the Xbox Series X offer very similar technical specifications, so the choice is more about the lifestyles that Sony and Microsoft purport to offer through their latest consoles. If you want to prioritize a string of blockbuster single-player games, then you may want to consider the PlayStation 5. If you’re looking for accessibility, tons of games, and the most bang for your buck, then the Xbox Series X is the best choice.

The post Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> The best Nintendo Switch accessories of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-switch-accessories/ Wed, 22 Sep 2021 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=397384
The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

The best Switch accessories smooth out your entry through Nintendo's gateway to excellent gaming.

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The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best controller nintendo switch pro controller best switch accessories Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
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An ergonomic model with comfortable and responsive buttons and sticks.
Best case orzly nintendo switch carrying case is our pick for the best switch accessories. Orlzly Carry Case Compatible with Nintendo Switch
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This lightweight case comes in nine colors.
Best charging station powera joycon dock best switch accessories PowerA Joy-Con & Pro Controller Charging Dock
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The Pro Controller charges quickly using a USB dongle, and it indicates the current level of charge at a glance.

Here, there, everywhere: The Nintendo Switch is a gaming machine for every person and every place, and a few key accessories will make it even better. The console is portable or it can be connected to your TV. A new Switch has two Joy-Con controllers that can connect to its screen, function as a combo controller, or act as individual controllers. That’s everything you’ll ever need, right? Sorry to say but, as we’ve learned for decades at this point, there’s always innovation in the video game console accessory space. From extra controllers to screen protectors, cases to grips, you can easily trick out your Nintendo Switch with the best Switch accessories and enjoy it just that much more—and often for a bargain price to boot.

How we select the best Nintendo Switch accessories

I’m a big gamer and have logged hundreds of hours on the Nintendo Switch (or Nintendo Switch OLED). To deliver a list you can trust, I combined that “hands-on research” with suggestions from in-house reviewers and critical consensus. Every one of these accessories comes highly recommended by multiple gamers or outlets, and the vast majority have spent some amount of time in my hot little hands.

The best Nintendo Switch accessories: Reviews & Recommendations

The below options are, as of now, the best Nintendo accessories in each category, but there are a lot of solid products that come close. As always, it’s best to look at these products in a store before purchasing them, just to see in person if the aesthetic or design fits you before you commit to it.

Best controller: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

nintendo switch pro controller best switch accessories

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Every feature you want in an ergonomic form factor with the reliability and performance that can only be guaranteed by a first-party product, Nintendo’s premium wireless controller gets everything right, from the weight to the springiness of the shoulder buttons.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Controller
  • Price: $69.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Great layout
  • A responsive directional pad
  • Every needed feature included

Cons

  • More expensive than third-party controllers
  • Very few color choices

When it comes to an extra controller, you want two things: feel and performance. Nintendo’s Switch Pro Controller delivers both. Extremely well-fitted for most adult hands, the Pro Controller has just the right weight, comfortable and responsive buttons and sticks, and plenty of bells and whistles. Want to use motion controls like you could with the Joy-Cons? Check. Want to scan the chips in your Amiibo figures, unlocking bonuses in some of your games? Check. Want the buzzes and jolts that come from rumble feedback? Check. The battery life on the Pro Controller is impressive, too, outperforming both the PS4’s DualShock4 and the Xbox One’s Wireless Controller. The only drawback of the Pro Controller is that, as a first-party Nintendo product, it rarely goes on sale. If you want one (and I think you do want one), you must plunk down $60 to $70 most of the time. While that’s more than most other options, it’s worth every penny. There’s no better general option for the best switch controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller. It’s a joy to use. 

Best stand: Hori Compact Playstand

hori compact stand is our pick for best switch accessories

Hori

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Why it made the cut: Nearly every Switch stand used a similar design, but Hori’s contribution has superior construction quality, with thicker plastic, rubber grips, and the best spacing to make it easy to access the Switch screen’s bottom charging port.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Ergonomics
  • Price: $12.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Lots of designs to choose from
  • Solid construction
  • Good spacing

Cons

  • Is still just an angled piece of plastic
  • No built-in charging capabilities

Some Switch stands try to be a replacement dock, but what you really want from the best switch stand is a better tabletop mode. The standard switch comes with a tiny kickstand on the back so the screen can be placed on a flat surface and the Joy-Cons can be removed for some small-screen local multiplayer. The Hori Compact Playstand improves that experience by elevating the Switch screen so that the USB port at the bottom of the Switch that charges the unit can be accessed, increases the possible screen angles to three, and creates a much more stable base than the single, thin kickstand that is built in. Additionally, the Compact Playstand can be folded flat for easy transport with your Switch in a backpack or shoulder bag. Especially useful for vacations, when you may want to pack light and forgo the dock and HDMI cables, the Compact Playstand makes the prospect of tabletop play a little more enjoyable.

Best screen protector: amFIlm Tempered Glass

amfilm glass srcreen protector is our pick for best switch accessories.

amFilm

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Why it made the cut: Piece of mind for only a few dollars, the amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector protects perfectly without much noticeable change to the surface of the Switch’s screen.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch
  • Accessory category: Durability
  • Price: $7.39 at time of writing

Pros

  • Extremely clear
  • Very strong
  • 99.9-percent transparency
  • Scratch- and smudge-resistant
  • Comes with wet wipes, a microfiber cleaning cloth, squeeze card, hinge stickers, and an installation guide

Cons

  • Requires a bit of dexterity to get to apply perfectly
  • Can change the reflective quality of the screen

The Switch is well-made but hardly damage-proof, and the screen is often the first victim of a regrettable incident. The amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector is resistant to scratches, smudges, and even liquids without greatly affecting the touchscreen properties of the Switch’s screen. It is thin enough that the Switch still easily slides into its dock or carrying case. Unfortunately, the screen protector does increase reflections off the Switch’s screen, which can make playing in sunlight a little bit more difficult, but the trade-off is worth it. Installation and maintenance are relatively easy and a standard pack comes with two protectors, so if you happen to damage the screen protector at some point or the adhesive starts to come off (which will happen eventually), you don’t need to buy another one. Additionally, you get some installation and cleaning supplies, including wipes and a microfiber cleaning cloth, plus a “squeeze card” to remove any air bubbles that get trapped between the Switch screen and the protector. Make sure you buy the correct size for your Switch, however, as the base Switch and Switch Lite (click on our guide to learn which Nintendo Switch console you should buy) have different dimensions for the screen.

Best case: Orlzly Carry Case Compatible with Nintendo Switch

orzly nintendo switch carrying case is our pick for the best switch accessories.

Orzly

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Why it made the cut: A sleek black clutch, the Orlzly Carry Case is a slim-profile case that still manages to hold everything you need to game on the go, making it the best Nintendo Switch case.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Travel
  • Price: $23.91 at time of writing

Pros

  • Slim profile
  • Good outer protection
  • Snug fit with room for accessories and games

Cons

  • Cannot house a pro controller or other larger accessories
  • No buffer for Joy-Con analog sticks

Switch carrying cases have all found a pretty universal design. Still, Orzly manages to outperform other very similar-looking cases with its superior materials, solid price point, and appropriate amount of space while maintaining a slim profile. The nine color choices mean you can find a case that fits your personal aesthetic. Weighing only about half a pound, the Carry Case compacts a lot of loose items into something much more manageable. However, you may want to be careful about arranging items in the upper pocket, as overstuffing it could result in the Joy-Con analog sticks having pressure put on them while in the case, which could cause some damage. Also, keep in mind that this product is not sized for the Switch Lite. Instead, Orzly offers a different version for that model of the Nintendo Switch.

Best memory card: SanDisk microSDXC Card Fortnite Edition

Sandisk memory card is our pick for the best switch accessories

SanDisk

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Why it made the cut: Most microSDXC cards will do the job, but only SanDisk does it with such style and guaranteed compatibility.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Storage
  • Price: $20.10 at time of writing

Pros

  • Available in four sizes
  • Cute design
  • Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB
  • Cute official Nintendo iconography
  • Fully compatible with all versions of the Switch console

Cons

  • More expensive than no-name brands

What SanDisk offers in the microSD card space is a little bit of flair and a fully licensed product. Featuring a “Fortnite” Skull on the black 128GB card, a Fortnite Cuddle Team Leader on the yellow 256GB card, and an “Animal Crossing” leaf on the green 512GB card, these SanDisk microSDXC cards are very cute. Compatibility is guaranteed, and the cards slot easily into the Switch’s card port. As for size, your needs will come down to whether or not you plan to go all-in on digital games and if you plan to want to be able to play a lot of games concurrently. The 128GB card is more than enough for the occasional digital-only game if you plan to play all of the big titles off of gamecards, while the 256GB card is good for those who don’t need access to a bunch of games at the same time but want to go mostly digital. And 512GB is for the voracious player who wants dozens of games installed simultaneously.

Best grip: Satisfye ZenGrip Pro

This Satisfye Zengrip is our pick for best nintendo switch accessories

Satisfye

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Why it made the cut: An elegant solution to a big (hands) problem, the Satisfye ZenGrip Pro replicates the feeling of a larger controller on the small Switch Joy-Cons when in handheld mode.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Grip
  • Price: $44.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Feels great in the hands
  • Thumbstick caps are less slippery and improve click-ability
  • Anti-scratch silicone tabs
  • Asymmetrical design to reduce fatigue
  • Thumbstick caps included

Cons

  • Must be removed to put a Switch in a standard carrying case

One of the biggest complaints by adults using the Nintendo Switch is how cramped their hands can feel while playing in handheld mode. Satisfye ZenGrip Pro, the best Switch grip, spaces out your hands more naturally while giving a solid nub for your fingers to grasp, resulting in a superior handheld experience. The grip is solidly constructed and uses silicon tabs to cradle the Switch, resulting in less surface contact while maintaining snugness and avoiding scratches on the Switch’s body. The included thumbstick caps have a much more tactile rubber feel to them, making the analog sticks easier to roll and click. As with most grip products, you must remove the ZenGrip Pro to dock the Switch. And if you have a standard Switch carrying case, the ZenGrip Pro will not fit into it, though Satisfye does offer a specifically designed carrying case if you want to keep your Switch in it in handheld mode at all times. The ZenGrip Pro began as a project on Kickstarter and Indiegogo and has become a pretty big success largely on the back of support by the Switch community, which puts it over the top in terms of our recommendation for best Switch accessories.

Best charging station: PowerA Joy-Con & Pro Controller Charging Dock

PowerA Controller Charging Base

PowerA

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Why it made the cut: A bit of overkill for many players, invaluable for others, the PowerA Controller Charging Base for Nintendo Switch is the best Switch charging station if you tend to host game night and need to keep all your devices powered at all times.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Charging
  • Price: $29.88 at time of writing

Pros

  • Compact, attractive
  • Works both as a set of Joy-Cons and pro controller
  • Includes portable charge block for pro controller

Cons:

  • A bit weighty
  • Still tethered by USB

If you took our advice above and bought a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the default charging method is to connect it to the Switch Dock with an included USB-to-USB-C cable. Suppose your preferred seat is far from your dock, or you simply want something a little cooler looking to display your controllers on while they charge. In that case, the PowerA Controller Charging Base for Nintendo Switch offers additional benefits over the Switch’s dock. A USB dongle that attaches to the Pro Controller allows some quick charging while playing and also serves as an indicator of the Pro Controller’s current level of charge (which you typically would have to check in the controller menu on the home screen). The dock is powered by a USB plug, so assuming you have an adapter, you can plug it into the outlet nearest your gaming seat. The charging station helps keep your extra controllers together and organized as well. While a bit of a luxury, the PowerA Controller Charging Base for Nintendo Switch is still quite useful.

Best battery pack: Anker 733

Anker 733

Anker

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Why it made the cut: Anker’s 733 is a high-capacity battery pack that doubles as a fast charger for your Nintendo Switch and other tech accessory.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Charging
  • Price: $69.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Two-in-one design
  • High-capacity battery pack
  • Multi-device charging

Cons

  • Price

The Nintendo Switch has a USB-C port, so you can extend its life by plugging it into an external power bank. This is very handy if you’re traveling and won’t be near an outlet for long stretches of time. Our go-to battery pack recommendation for the Nintendo Switch is Anker’s 733. The 10,000mAh power bank can extend the life of your Switch by several hours and has three USB ports so that you can top up other devices at the same time. The 733’s biggest strength is that it can also be plugged directly into an outlet as a multi-device power adapter. Both of the 733’s USB-C ports can output up to 65W of power when it’s used as a power adapter, which makes it ideal for the Nintendo Switch and most 13-inch laptops.

This multi-functionality does add to both the 733’s bulk and price, but those small tradeoffs are totally worthwhile. The ability to take a single accessory to charge all your devices, whether you’re home or on the go, is indispensable. If you mostly play the Nintendo Switch in handheld mode and like to crank its screen brightness to compete with the sun or other powerful light sources, Anker’s 733 is essential. This is one of the only multi-use Nintendo Switch accessories we feel comfortable recommending because it excels at both of its functions.

Best graphics upscaler: Marseille mClassic

Marseille mClassic

Marseille

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Why it made the cut: Marseille’s mClassic can upscale your Nintendo Switch to make games look better on a 4K TV.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Graphical enhancement
  • Price: $99.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Can improve the look of some Nintendo Switch games
  • Doesn’t introduce latency
  • Unobtrusive

Cons

  • Effect not as noticeable in some games

Rumors of a next-generation Switch have swirled around for years, but Nintendo has shown no signs of releasing updated hardware. That said, Marseille has a solution if you’re disappointed by how newer games look on a 4K TV. The company’s mClassic is an accessory that plugs into the HDMI port on your dock and up-converts the console’s video signal before it reaches your TV. The results vary from game to game, but some titles will look appreciably better when the mClassic is used. To be clear, this accessory isn’t going to turn your Nintendo Switch into an Xbox Series X—it’s modifying the video signal coming from your console, not acting as a better graphics card. The mClassic won’t improve a game’s frame rate either. It’s best to think of Marseille’s mClassic as a way to enhance the look of your favorite games on your preferred console and make the wait for totally new hardware a little less annoying.

Best dock: Rocketfish TV Dock Kit For Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch Rocketfish Dock

Rocketfish

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Why it made the cut: This Nintendo Switch dock from Rocketfish makes it easy to connect your console to a television in another location without messing up your main gaming setup

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Charging
  • Price: $49.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Compact design
  • USB-A port for charging
  • Compatible with all systems that support docked and handheld play

Cons

  • Third-party docks can be finicky

The Nintendo Switch’s namesake feature is the ability to use it as a handheld gaming system and hook it up to a TV using a dock. Nintendo’s first-party docks are hard to find, which is why we recommend this solution from Rocketfish. It has the same functionality—including a USB-A port, which can be used to charge other devices—in a much smaller form factor than Nintendo’s official accessory. If you’re taking your Nintendo Switch over to a friend’s house, and don’t want to unplug your Switch dock from your TV, this is a great solution. It’s also a smart buy if you travel often and want to play your Nintendo console on the big screen. Some third-party docks are a little temperamental—you may have to connect and disconnect your console from the dock a couple of times for it to work properly—but this isn’t a huge deal.

What to consider when picking the best Nintendo Switch accessories

The Switch isn’t the most expensive video game machine on the market, as it’s anywhere from 60% to 80% of the cost of the powerfully monolithic Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. However, it’s also not exactly cheap and is designed for on-the-go use, the Nintendo Switch can end up experiencing a surprising amount of abuse, especially when compared to those home entertainment center-bound consoles. System protection is one of the most important things to think about if you’re prone to taking your Switch on public transit, road trips, or on vacation with you. Like a cellphone, you’ll want to protect your Switch’s screen. Nothing is more frustrating than playing a great game with an ever-present scratch staring you in the face. You’ll also likely want to invest in a carrying case.

While the Switch’s main body with Joy-Con controllers attached could easily slip into a backpack, shoulder bag, or oversized pocket, the analog sticks on the Joy-Cons could easily snag on something in transit, which could contribute to early Joy-Con drift onset, which makes your control less precise and in some cases forces you to replace the Joy-Cons entirely. Also, while the Switch’s body is pretty durable, you still want something to help absorb the inevitable shocks of travel. Lastly, suppose you’re like me and still prefer buying physical games whenever possible (unlike digital, you can sell them to recoup some of their cost when you’re done playing). In that case, you’ll want something designed to carry all those extra tiny game cards to avoid a $60 loss of something about the size of your thumbnail.

Do I need extra controllers?

First, ask yourself if you play multiplayer games with friends offline. If you do, you absolutely need at least two extra Nintendo Switch controllers. A huge number of multiplayer Switch games are specifically designed for up to four players to play simultaneously on one screen, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Super Mario Party. Many of the best multiplayer games, especially those designed by Nintendo themselves, allow a set of Joy-Cons to be used as two separate controllers, which is why only two more are needed.

If you tend to prefer single-player games and spend any time whatsoever in front of the TV with your Switch, I would still recommend buying an extra pro-style controller. It can make the best Nintendo Switch games even better. These controllers resemble the Xbox and PS5 controllers and are simply more ergonomic, precise, and durable than the Joy-Cons. Especially for shooter games like Splatoon 2 or Fortnite, which require more precise inputs with quicker reactions, a pro-style controller can drastically improve your results within games. Perennial action-adventure favorites The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey also greatly benefit from the increased precision. While we do offer the overall best controller available in this rundown, you can also check out our assessment of some other great controllers.

What are the best companies when it comes to Switch accessories?

While some of the best items come from companies that don’t produce a lot of accessories, some specialize in accessory design and production and can often be relied on for a quality product, even if it didn’t make our list. Nintendo makes only a select few accessories for the Switch, and they tend to be pricier than third-party choices, but the quality is almost always there. Hori—which produces many accessories for the U.S., European, and Japanese market—also has several standout items. Mad Catz is a well-known accessory manufacturer (now based in Hong Kong) whose products are also available in international markets. However, they tend to favor flashier design over unquestionable quality. Avoid, however, a lot of unknown brands out of mainland Asia and also skip a lot of the “premium” brands. The former tend to be cheap but have low reliability while the latter often end up charging for the name on the side of the product more than innovation or quality.

FAQs

Q: What accessories do you need with the Switch?

Need is a loaded term but, of all the items in our rundown, we recommend the Pro Controller the most. It simply improves the play experience tremendously when you play in TV mode. It may be one of the most comfortable controllers ever designed, with a weight and shape that seems very natural to use, and any game requiring precise controls will improve with its use.

Q: Does a screen protector hide scratches on Nintendo Switch?

Screen protectors are meant to prevent scratches rather than hide them, so existing scratches won’t magically disappear once you apply a screen protector. However, it will help them not to become larger and may reduce their reflection, making them seem less noticeable from certain angles of light.

Q: How do I make my Nintendo Switch stand out?

A number of the Switch accessories mentioned here come in multiple colors or with branded characters available on them, and these graphic variations are a great way to customize your Switch. Additionally, there are various silicone rubber wraparound cases for both the standard Switch and the Switch Lite that can change the color of your entire system or put specific characters on it. These tend to be less effective as protection, though. There are even thumbstick caps with different designs on them that are meant to be purely aesthetic.

Q: Do I need a Switch case for all accessories?

No, you won’t need a case for all your Nintendo Switch accessories. However, many Nintendo Switch cases have slots for physical game cards and memory cards, which can make it more convenient to take your entire game library when traveling.

Q: Is it OK to leave the OLED Switch docked?

Yes. You can leave any model of the Nintendo Switch in docked mode for its entire lifespan with no ill effects. Similarly, you can use your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode 100% of the time without running into problems.

Q: How can I prolong a Nintendo Switch’s lifespan?

You can maximize your Nintendo Switch’s longevity by taking good care of it. Carrying it in a case while traveling and making sure it doesn’t get dropped onto hard surfaces are key. Nintendo has done a good job keeping the Nintendo Switch’s software stable, so if you’re mindful of the hardware it should last a very long time.

Final words on the best Nintendo Switch accessories

Despite all the awesome choices Nintendo made, there’s still space to improve your Switch. A Pro Controller is a no-brainer, but the rest of the Switch accessories will likely depend on your play tendencies and personal desires. Each of the options above adds something, but that something may not be necessary to you. That’s fine! Maybe the Switch fits your hands, maybe you prefer to charge your controllers directly into the Switch’s dock. Accessories are supplemental by nature but, when you find the right ones, you may wonder how you ever lived without them.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Nintendo Switch accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best 4K monitors for gaming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-4k-monitors-for-gaming/ Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=518712
The best 4K gaming monitors
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Play the hottest games at their highest level of fidelity.

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The best 4K gaming monitors
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Best Overall ViewSonic ELITE XG320U ViewSonic Elite XG320U
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Viewsonic’s monitor sits in the sweet spot between size, fidelity, overall performance, and price.
Best ultrawide Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the best premium monitor for CAD. Samsung Odyssey G9
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Samsung’s Odyssey G9 will offer the most immersive 4K gaming experience—if you have the desk space.
Best budget BenQ is the best cheap gaming monitor. BenQ 32-inch 4K Monitor (EW3270U)
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BenQ’s EW3270U offers an incredible amount of value given its big size and great features.

PC gaming has always been a couple of steps ahead of what’s happening in the console space, and 4K monitors for gaming can help high-end titles live up to their full potential. The extra pixels—roughly quadruple what you’d get on an HD screen—will help you see titles released in the past few years in incredible detail. You’ll still need a gaming PC powerful enough to play games at high settings, but even new game consoles have started supporting native 4K gaming. The best 4K monitors for gaming will let you experience your catalog like never before without leaving your desk.

How we chose the best 4K monitors for gaming

The world of 4K gaming monitors is vast, but recognizing that resolution is the most important factor for you makes the search a lot easier. This guide pulls together many of the 4K monitors we’ve recommended in our other buying guides, in addition to some fresh picks to give you a good cross-section of what’s available right now. Drawing on our own personal experience with everything from gaming laptops to flagship consoles, combined with peer recommendations and extensive online research, we’ve narrowed down the options. Connectivity, screen size, refresh rate, and port selection heavily influenced our decisions. You should be able to use your 4K gaming monitor with a PC and PlayStation 5 without an adapter. The genre of game you play and whether an ultra-high frame rate is critical to your success were also factored in heavily.

The best 4K monitors for gaming: Reviews & Recommendations

Manufacturers release new 4K gaming monitors rapidly, so we organized our recommendations into categories to simplify your decision. If you value color reproduction, display size, or speed, you’ll know exactly which suits your needs best. We’re pleased to see the prices of 4K gaming monitors falling, with the lowest-cost option coming in at well under $400.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

Best Gaming Monitors

ViewSonic

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Specs

  • Size: 32 inches
  • Refresh rate: 150Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • Gorgeous picture
  • Accurate colors out of the box
  • High-performing at all resolutions
  • HDMI 2.1 compatible

Cons

  • Expensive

Pushing your PC rig budget to the limit? If so, Viewsonic’s Elite XG320U is a no-compromise 4K gaming monitor with incredible performance in a big, beautiful package. The 32-inch display has a 150Hz refresh rate and support for AMD’s FreeSync variable refresh rate tech so that games will run buttery smooth—especially on machines outfitted with an AMD graphics card. Colors will look vibrant and accurate because the XG320U’s panel supports HDR (high dynamic range), though they won’t be quite as vivid as they would be on the OLED option we recommend later.

Viewsonic packed the XG320U with ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, and 2.1 inputs, which are required for 4K gaming at 120Hz. These video ports are complemented by USB-A and a USB-B port, which will turn this display into a hub for your other computer accessories. If you’re gaming on a laptop with only one USB-A port, the XG320U’s input selection will make your life a lot easier and clean up your desk clutter simultaneously. ViewSonic focused on visual fidelity, but it didn’t neglect practical ergonomics in that process. The XG320U supports tilt, swivel, and height adjustment, so you can comfortably use this 4K gaming monitor regardless of your height and the height of your desk. Spending nearly $1,000 on a display seems silly when you have to set it on a stack of books.

Our only knock against ViewSonic’s XG320U is its high price, which may put it out of reach if you’re on a more limited budget. That said, it’s worth its $899.99 price tag if you want to play the latest PC and console games without compromises.

Best curved: Gigabyte M32UC

A Gigabyte curved monitor with a rainbow background

Gigabyte

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Specs

  • Size: 31.5-inch 
  • Refresh rate: 160Hz
  • Response time: 1ms 
  • Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.1 ports, USB-C port, USB-A ports

Pros

  • Large viewing area
  • Ultra fast refresh rate
  • Very wide port selection

Cons

  • Curved monitors aren’t for everyone

Curved 4K monitors are an acquired taste, but if you like the look of gaming on an angled panel, Gigabyte’s M32UC should be the first display you consider. The monitor maxes out at 160Hz, which most games released today won’t even be able to take advantage of. Getting the M32UC today will provide some future-proofing as games released in the next few years begin running at over 120FPS.

The other spec that caught our eye when considering the M32UC was its wide port selection. This is one of the few 4K gaming monitors with a USB-C port, which can connect to gaming laptops—and Macs—without an adapter. USB-C ports can carry power in addition to audio and video data, so a single cable can charge your gaming laptop while you play games. Gaming is a particularly resource-intensive task, so your portable machine probably won’t charge very quickly. However, this is a nice feature to have when you’re using your computer more casually.

If you’ve become a curved monitor convert, and want to use your computer primarily to play games in 4K, we can’t think of a better display than the M32UC.

Best ultrawide: Samsung Odyssey G9

Best Gaming Monitors

Samsung

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Specs

  • Size: 49 inches
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • Beautiful ultrawide display
  • QLED panel
  • Unmatched refresh rate

Cons

  • Cost
  • Requires a lot of desk space

Okay, so technically, Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is also a curved monitor, and it’s not technically 4K, but let us explain. Ultrawide monitors are all curved because their extreme width is designed to take up all of your peripheral vision. Additionally, while this display has more horizontal pixels than any of the other 4K gaming monitors we’re recommending, it doesn’t have as many vertical lines of resolution. If it did, this would simply be a 49-inch TV.

Still, the technicalities here didn’t disqualify the Odyssey G9 because of its incredible features. This display has a refresh rate of 240Hz and support for both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia’s G-Sync. If your gaming PC has a high-end dedicated graphics card, the Odyssey G9 can take full advantage. Similarly, the G9’s QLED panel will make modern games look stunning thanks to its advanced color reproduction. Let’s put it this way: If your game looks bad, that’s the fault of either the game developers or another weak link in your PC gaming chain.

Samsung equipped the Odyssey G9 with a good selection of ports, opting to favor DisplayPorts over HDMI—a telltale sign this gaming monitor was designed for PC gamers first, alongside some USB ports. While this is one of the most expensive 4K gaming monitors we’re recommending, its most limiting factor is its extremely large size. You’ll need a wide gaming desk to comfortably fit the Odyssey G9, though you’ll be rewarded for allotting it that much space.

Best OLED: LG 27EP950-B

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: OLED
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • Incredible color reproduction and contrast
  • Wide port selection
  • Height-adjustable stand

Cons

  • Slow refresh rate
  • Cost

If you’re willing to give up some fidelity for the best-possible color reproduction and contrast, LG’s 27EP950-B is the 4K monitor to get for light to moderate gaming. Yes, its 60Hz refresh rate is an Achilles heel, but all will be forgiven when you start playing games on an OLED screen. This display technology leaves even the best LED and QLED panels in the dust, although it contributes heavily to the 27EP950-B’s high cost. This monitor is for video and photo editors who like to play games on the side. Don’t get us wrong, playing games on a high-fidelity 60Hz display can still look incredible. Many games have a 60FPS cap—especially on consoles—so you may not even miss the high refresh rates available on other displays.

Like Gigabyte’s M32UC, the 27EP950-B has a USB-C port, which can be used for data and power transfer. That input sits alongside a nice selection of DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB ports. If you want to connect accessories to your machine, you won’t encounter any issues. We’ve mentioned it before, but this 4K gaming monitor’s biggest strength is its OLED panel. This screen has been sitting at the high end of the TV market for several years now, but it’s just beginning its creep into the monitor space. Because it’s such a niche feature, the panel drives up the price of this display significantly, but if you’ve gotten used to the look of an OLED TV, you’ll know it’s hard to return to an LCD.

Best budget: BenQ EW3270U

Specs

  • Size: 32
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 1 x USB Type-C

Pros

  • AMD FreeSync support
  • Built-in speakers
  • Price

Cons

  • 60Hz refresh rate

If cost is your concern, BenQ’s EW3270U is the 4K gaming monitor to get. Again, this is a 60Hz display, but in BenQ’s case, this actually leads to significant cost savings, as the EW3270U is roughly half the price of the second-least expensive monitor in our guide. This monitor is perfect for more casual gamers who want to play high-resolution console games or stick to role-playing and platforming games where there’s less of an emphasis on frame rate.

Refresh rate aside, there’s a lot to like about the EW3270U. It supports AMD’s FreeSync and has built-in speakers, which are a nice surprise for any monitor in this price range. BenQ didn’t skimp on its inputs either, as the EW3270U has a healthy array of ports—including our much-discussed USB-C port. The EW3270U is even height-adjustable, which proves BenQ cared as much about ergonomics as providing a decent gaming experience. On a similar note, this display actually has built-in blue light reduction technology—this will impact color reproduction and can be toggled on and off—which can make late-night gaming sessions easier on your body.

The availability of 4K gaming monitors under $500 is pretty slim, but of that group, BenQ’s EW3270U is an excellent choice. BenQ made the tough—but right—decisions on which features to compromise and focus on, and gamers who want to play their favorites in 4K are the beneficiaries.

What to look for when choosing the best gaming monitor

Size

Most 4K gaming monitors fall within the 27- to 32-inch size range, which is the sweet spot to accommodate desks of all sizes. Ultrawide monitors are the exception, which makes them a specialized case. Ironically, the larger the screen, the lower the pixel density, so a bigger 4K monitor will actually look (very slightly) worse than a smaller one. This isn’t a huge deal when buying a TV since you’re sitting several feet away, but the difference will be slightly more noticeable on a display about a foot away from your face.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate determines how quickly it can display new information on its screen every second. This tech spec isn’t important in most applications. Still, it does matter when playing fast-paced games like first-person shooters, where every millisecond of latency (lag) gives your opponent—digital or real—a distinct advantage. A 4K gaming monitor’s refresh rate is only one piece of the puzzle, though, as you’ll be limited by the maximum frame rate the developers built into their game and the power of your PC.

Ports

This may not seem like an important tech spec, but your 4K gaming monitor must have the right inputs for the best experience. Our recommendations have a mix of DisplayPorts and HDMI ports so that you can hook up all of your gaming hardware to them simultaneously with no problems.

What is HDMI 2.1?

The shape of HDMI ports hasn’t changed since its introduction in the mid-2000s, but the internal technology has advanced quite a lot. The current-generation HDMI version is 2.1, and it differs from its predecessor in one big way: Bandwidth. If your device and monitor both have HDMI ports—and you use an HDMI 2.1 cable—data can be transferred between them at up to 40GBps (gigabytes per second). This bandwidth is required to play games at 120Hz or higher in 4K, whether you turn HDR on or not. You can also play games in 8K at 60Hz, but we’re not quite there yet. Many monitors, graphics cards, and game consoles support HDMI 2.1, and we’re pleased that the correct cable isn’t too expensive.

FAQs

Q: Is 4K 144Hz good for gaming?

Yes. Any refresh rate over 60Hz is good for gaming.

Q: Can a 4K monitor run 120 FPS?

If a monitor has a refresh rate of 120Hz, it can play games with a frame rate of 120 FPS with no slowdown.

Q: How long do 4K monitors last on average?

A current-generation 4K monitor should last a decade or more, but you may be tempted to upgrade as new games can be played at a higher resolution.

Q: What aspect ratio should I go for with 4K monitors?

Most of our recommendations have a 16:9 aspect ratio, standard for widescreen displays. The ultrawide monitor we’re recommending has a 32:9 aspect ratio. Both are fine as long as your go-to games were designed to support an ultrawide monitor.

Q: How much does a 4K gaming monitor cost?

Value is important in the world of PC peripherals, so we made sure to have an option that costs less than $400. Displays with higher-end specs can cost several times that price.

Final thoughts on the best 4K gaming monitors

The proliferation of 4K gaming monitors and capable PC and console hardware proves game developers are pushing far beyond the HD limits. We’re especially pleased that all the major monitor makers have jumped into this space, so options are available at all prices. It’s also worth pointing out that you can hook up your gaming consoles or a PC to a 4K TV if you’d prefer the living room gaming experience to sitting at a desk. But if you’ve decided you want to play PC games the “old-fashioned way” on one of these amazing monitors, we recommend getting a comfortable, ergonomic gaming chair to avoid back pain after long, repetitive sessions.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 4K monitors for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> Best Buy is offering rare Nintendo Switch game deals for Mar10 Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/nintendo-switch-mario-best-buy-deals/ Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:50:13 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=518718
Mar10 deals on Nintendo Switch games. This is a compilation image of mario kart, mario party, mario maker, and mario golf
Stan Horaczek

Aim your browser at Bowser and save $20 on absolutely essential Mario games that rarely see a discount.

The post Best Buy is offering rare Nintendo Switch game deals for Mar10 Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Mar10 deals on Nintendo Switch games. This is a compilation image of mario kart, mario party, mario maker, and mario golf
Stan Horaczek

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If you have a Nintendo Switch, you know Nintendo’s first-party games don’t go on sale often. Even used copies of games starring that charming little Italian plumber hover frustratingly close to retail no matter how long they have been out. This week, however, Best Buy is offering $20 to $40 off some very popular Mario games in honor of his holiday. You see, it’s March 10, and Mar10 kinda looks like the word “Mario.” Adorable. The sale includes both physical and digital copies of the games, which is handy if you’re always losing those little cartridges. There are also a few fun accessories tossed in with all the deals.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe $39 (Was $59)

Mario Kart 8 deal at best buy

Nintendo

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I don’t need to tell you what Mario Kart is. Few video games have the kind of long-lasting appeal as Mario Kart. I once accidentally smashed my brother’s laptop after a particularly egregious loss on the GameCube version. You can get a physical copy of the game or the same discount on a digital download version.

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit – Mario Set Mario Edition $59 (Was $99)

Mario Kart Home Circuit in the box for the deal at best buy

Nintendo

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If you want to drag the Mario Kart action out into the real world, this interactive set includes camera-wielding carts that drive around tracks you design in your home. You get a first-person view of the action as Mario and his pals scream around your living room and terrify your dog. It’s nearly half-off during the sale.

More Nintendo Switch game deals

Here are the rest of the Mario deals you can jump on like Mario jumps on those poor defenseless turtles:

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]]> You should try connecting a keyboard and mouse to your Xbox https://www.popsci.com/diy/xbox-to-keyboard-and-mouse/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=512320
Close up to a white Xbox controller on a black table.
Entering passwords with one of this is a nightmare. thiago japyassu / Pexels

Controllers are not your only option if you have an Xbox Series X/S.

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Close up to a white Xbox controller on a black table.
Entering passwords with one of this is a nightmare. thiago japyassu / Pexels

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When you buy an Xbox Series X or an Xbox Series S, the obvious move is to use the wireless controller that comes in the box. But if need them, these Microsoft consoles can also work with a keyboard and mouse—just like any Windows computer.

Hooking up extra peripherals to your console can make typing and navigating menus much easier, and if you want, you can also use them to play compatible games.

What to know before connecting a mouse and keyboard to your Xbox

The vast majority of wired keyboards and mice should work fine on your Xbox Series X/S. The only major restriction is that the console doesn’t support Bluetooth devices, so wired or dongle peripherals are your only options.

We couldn’t find any reports of any keyboards or mice that didn’t work with Microsoft’s gaming machine, perhaps because the underlying architecture is similar to Windows. So if you can plug the gadget into a USB-A port, you should be okay.

[Related: Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles]

Input devices with their own wireless USB dongles should also work well, but it’s more of a hit or miss. If you’re using a piece of hardware you already own, just give it a try to see if it’s a good match. But if you’re buying new, take a minute to look at the specs and make sure there’s a mention of Xbox compatibility. 

A keyboard and mouse setup allows for a lot more precision and fluidity in games, as you’ll know if you regularly game on PCs and consoles. However, while your keyboard and mouse will work everywhere in the Xbox menus, you won’t be able to use them in every game you play. And that’s not least because it would give you an unfair advantage over other players online using standard controllers.

If you need to know whether a specific title supports a keyboard and mouse, a quick web search is the easiest way to find out. Various sites maintain updated lists you can check out, but at the time of writing, some of the popular Xbox Series X/S games that support peripherals other than controllers include The Sims 4, Halo, Sea of Thieves, and Minecraft. Keep in mind that some games only offer limited support, so you might be able to use the keyboard for in-game chat but not for gameplay, for example.

Connecting a keyboard and mouse to your Xbox console

Connecting a mouse and keyboard to your Xbox is simple. All you need to do is plug your keyboard or mouse into a spare USB port on the Xbox Series X/S and you’re up and running. You’ve got three ports to choose from: two around the back of the console and one on the front. It makes no difference which ones you use.

If you’re these ports are already taken by other accessories such as a gamepad controller or external storage, you can connect a USB hub. This takes up one port on your console but adds a few extras for whatever you want. There’s no definitive list of compatible hubs to refer to, but most devices out there should work seamlessly. If you’re buying a new one, we’d recommend making sure that it specifically mentions Xbox Series X/S support, just to be on the safe side.

Note that the Xbox Series X/S consoles use USB Type-A ports, not the smaller USB Type-C, so pick your keyboard, mouse, or hub accordingly. If you already have your peripheral but it connects via USB-C, a simple and inexpensive adapter should easily do the trick: they’re about $10 and available from most electronics stores.

If you’re using a keyboard or mouse with a wireless USB dongle, follow the instructions that came with your device. Most of the time, connecting them to your Xbox is just a matter of plugging the dongle in and waiting a few seconds—it’ll automatically find the devices and get them working with the console they’re plugged into.

Configuring a keyboard or mouse on your Xbox Series X/S

Once your keyboard is connected to your Xbox Series X/S, it’s time to test it. Try navigating around the main Xbox interface, using the arrow keys to move, the Enter key to select, and the Esc key to go back. If you try running a search using the box in the top left corner of the screen, you should be able to type out your search using the keyboard.

The Xbox Series X/S have their own keyboard shortcuts as well. Tap Y to run a search, for example, Tab to go forward through items on the screen (or Shift+Tab to go backward), or Win+I to open up the main Settings panel. And if you can’t momentarily reach your keyboard, you can always keep using your standard controller, as one doesn’t replace the other.

[Related: The best Xbox One controllers of 2023]

Unfortunately, testing a mouse isn’t quite as easy. The peripheral won’t work on the main Xbox interface and menus, so you’ll need to open a compatible game or app to see if everything is working fine. You can refer to one of the online lists we mentioned earlier, but you can also try Microsoft Edge, which comes pre-installed in your console.

If you want to personalize your experience, there aren’t many configuration options you need to know about. There are none for a connected keyboard, but when it comes to the mouse, you can select the cog in the top right corner of the interface to get to the Settings screen. There, pick Devices & connections and then Mouse—you’ll able to change the pointer speed and swap the functions of the primary and secondary (left and right) mouse buttons.

The post You should try connecting a keyboard and mouse to your Xbox appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> The best productivity presents for home and office https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-home-and-office-gifts/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=496851
The best productivity presents for home and office
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Help family and friends improve efficiency and aesthetics with these thoughtful home + office accessories.

The post The best productivity presents for home and office appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best productivity presents for home and office
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best Wi-Fi Routers An Amazon eero 6E mesh wifi system on a blue and white background Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System
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An Amazon eero 6E mesh wifi system will guarantee your giftee a fast, stable connection to the internet.
Best desk FLEXISPOT Comhar Electric Standing Desk with Drawers FLEXISPOT Comhar Electric Standing Desk with Drawers
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Ample space, accessible USB ports, and a wide drawer make this an indispensable part of any home office setup.
Best TV Hisense U8K Hisense U8K
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This luxe TV will help them kick back and relax between meetings or after work is done.

If the 2020s have taught us anything, it’s that the line between your home and office is blurrier than ever. It has become increasingly thoughtful to get someone a gift that can help reduce their list of chores, improve their productivity, or kick back and relax after a long day at the office (in-home or on-site). Gifts in this category run the gamut from incredibly practical to downright extravagant, so there’s something for everybody. We’ve also been conscious of making sure our gift recommendations work whether you’re shopping for someone who rents or owns their place, be it an apartment or house. If you’re shopping for someone you live with, some of our best home and office presents below will also benefit you, so consider that a holiday bonus.

Best Wi-Fi routers: Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System

Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System

Amazon

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One of the keys to a happy home during the holidays (or any other time) is a fast, consistent connection to the Internet. Eero’s latest Wi-Fi routers support the latest wireless standard (Wi-Fi 6E), supporting speeds of up to 2.3 Gbps. For reference, Netflix recommends just 15Mbps to stream video in 4K, which is only .006% of the routers’ total potential bandwidth. If you’re shopping for someone who pays for a fast internet connection but finds their devices don’t get the speeds promised—or they have places in their home where their wireless connection is spotty—this is the optimal solution. Amazon says this two-pack of Eero routers can cover an area of up to 4,000 sq. ft., which should be enough for most homes, and it can be connected to over 100 devices without slowing down.

Best printer: Canon MegaTank G3270

Canon G3270

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Every home or office needs an all-in-one printer for when a document needs to be scanned, printed, or copied. This may only happen a handful of times a year (unless the printer is living in a house with school-age kids), but you’re guaranteed to get a “THANK YOU!” text each time it does. We like Canon’s G3270 because it uses ink tanks rather than in cartridges. Canon says you should be able to print roughly 6,000 black and white and 7,700 color pages without having to refill them.

If the person you gift this to prints 100 pages of each per month, this means they won’t have to buy new ink for several years. Households with kids—or folks who like to craft—will have to change them more frequently. In our experience, the G3270 had no problem printing text and photos without blotches or smudging, even during long jobs. The fact that this printer is wireless is especially appreciated because they won’t have to keep plugging and unplugging it into a computer.

Best docking station: Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Dock with 100W Charging

Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Plugable

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The downside to laptops getting thinner and lighter is the loss of ports, which makes it annoying to connect accessories to them. If you know someone who’s always carrying around a bunch of adapters, you can simplify their life significantly by gifting them Plugable’s new Thunderbolt 4 Dock. This tool has four USB-A ports, three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SD card slot, HDMI 2.0 port, headphone jack, Gigabit Ethernet jack, and a USB-C to HDMI adapter.

Your friend and family member can use UGREEN’s hub to connect their computer to three external displays (assuming their computer supports this feature) and nearly a dozen other accessories with a single USB-C cable. The hub can even recharge their laptop while connected, which is an excellent bonus.

Best office chair: AmazonCommercial Ergonomic High-Back Bonded Leather Executive Chair

AmazonCommercial Ergonomic High-Back Bonded Leather Executive Chair

Amazon

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Nobody thinks about ergonomics until their body starts hurting, so this gift serves two purposes. AmazonCommercial’s Ergonomic High-Back Bonded Leather Executive Chair is so comfortable that we can recommend it to anybody who works at home. The chair has ample padding, height-adjustable arms, and a satisfying swivel. We recommend gifting a high-back chair, which cradles the back, shoulders, and neck to address multiple potential pain points. This is a type of gift nobody thinks about getting for themselves.

Best mouse: Logitech MX Master 3S

Logitech MX Master 3S

Brandt Ranj

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Logitech’s MX Master 3S is the tech accessory office workers don’t know they needed. The Bluetooth mouse is shaped so an entire hand can fit on top of it, with a dedicated thumb resting on its left side. The MX Master 3S’ design makes it much more comfortable to use over long periods. Additional buttons on the side and top of the mouse give users quick access to different apps or system functions, which can save the person you gift it to several minutes every day. One of this mouse’s coolest features is the ability to pair it with up to three devices, so your friend or family member can use it with their work and personal computer. Nobody thinks about the computer mouse they use, but once you gift someone the Logitech MX Master 3S, they’ll never return to a generic wired one.

Best keyboard: Logitech Wave Keys

Logitech Wave Keyboard

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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If you’re already gifting someone an ergonomic mouse, pairing it with a mechanical keyboard makes sense. Logitech’s newly released Wave Keys is one of the best we’ve ever tested. It can connect to a PC or Mac wirelessly over Bluetooth, or with a USB-C cable, so it’s great if you’re shopping for someone who works on MacOS and Windows. The sensation of typing on an ergonomic keyboard after years of using the slim ones built into laptops is revelatory. The built-in palm rest will keep their wrists elevated, while the sloped keys are more satisfying to depress. Comfort is key when typing all day, and the person you gift this keyboard to will wonder how they ever got along without it.

Best work desk: Flexispot Electric Standing Desk with Drawers

FLEXISPOT Comhar Electric Standing Desk with Drawers

FLEXISPOT

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If you want to gift surface area to someone with limited space, Flexispot’s Electric Standing Desk with Drawers can help them stay elevated and organized. Its 55-inch work surface is more than sufficient for multiple monitors and plenty of tech accessories. This desk has four memory modes, which will allow the person you gift it to preset their optimal sitting and standing heights. A pair of USB-A ports on the front of the desk offer a convenient way to charge devices, while the drawer can help them get paperwork and other supplies off their desktop.

Best wireless earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2

Apple AirPods Pro 2

Apple

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Let’s not beat around the bush here: Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are arguably the hottest holiday gift this season. Apple’s latest earbuds sound better, last longer, and cancel out more noise than the pair they replace while keeping the same iconic look, feel, and shape. Active noise cancellation is the biggest feature for office workers, as it’ll allow them to concentrate on work instead of being distracted by the sound of typing keys, swiveling chairs, or idle conversation. One of the most underrated features of the AirPods Pro 2 is the microphones, which are surprisingly good at picking up a speaker’s voice without much room noise. At their price, you won’t find a more well-rounded, fully featured pair of earbuds than the AirPods Pro 2. Apple recently updated its earbuds with a USB-C charging case, which is helpful so your giftee won’t have to use a proprietary charging cord.

Best headphones: beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X

beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X

beyerdynamic

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Need a gift for an audiophile who listens to music in their home office and continues their play session hours after logging off? Maybe someone you know is setting up a starter home studio but also games? Get them beyerdynamic’s DT 700 Pro X over-ear headphones, which come from the makers of our overall best mixing headphones. What separates the DT 700 Pro X apart from the pack is the extremely soft ear cushions, which make the headphones extremely comfortable to wear while simultaneously isolating a listener’s ears from unwanted outside sounds without any tonality-altering circuitry. Additionally, the headphones clamping force (how much pressure the headphones push against a listener’s head to keep them on) was also calibrated to optimize comfort without sacrificing performance. The headphones also sound excellent, with deep bass, wide midrange, and clear-but-not-crispy treble that lets you identify stray frequencies in the mix or threats in the game. And, as we said earlier, anyone who loves listening to music at home will really like these headphones.

Best smart speaker: Sonos Era 100

Sonos Era 100

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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If you know someone who’s been thinking about making their home smarter, but doesn’t know where to start, get them Sonos Era 100. Sonos’ latest smart speaker looks modern, has a surprisingly good multi-driver audio system, and will immediately become the hub of their smart home. The speaker can be used with Sonos’ built-in smart home assistant or Amazon’s Alexa. Both of these assistants can be used to control the speaker hands-free. We were enourmously impressed by the Era 100 during our tests, and we encourage you to read our full review for more infomration. If the person you’re shopping for cares about multichannel audio, stepping up to Sonos’ Dolby Atmos-compatible Era 300 is a great idea.

Best smart lights: GE CYNC Dynamic Effects Smart LED Hexagon Light Panels

Smart lights are the first smart home accessory we recommend gifting people if they already have a smart speaker, and GE’s Cync Smart Hexagon Panels are a lot cooler than a typical smart light bulb. These panels can be attached to one another in any number of configurations, creating a unique art piece. Each hexagon can be adjusted to one of several million colors. You can even have multiple colors on a single hexagon, and blend them together. These smart lights would look great anywhere, and may also become a part of your friend or family’s holiday decorations, accenting other pieces they typically put up.

Best monitor: Dell S2722QC

Dell S2722QC

Brandt Ranj

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An external display will give your friend or family member a lot more digital space to work with, which can help improve their productivity or ability to multitask. There are a lot of monitors out there, but Dell’s S2722QC checks all the right boxes. The 27-inch 4K screen can display 1.07 billion colors and has HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C inputs so that you can connect it to any machine. The USB-C port should be of particular interest if you’re shopping for a MacBook owner since it’ll allow the display to charge their laptop while it’s connected. The S2722QC’s speakers aren’t anything to write home about, but they’re helpful in a pinch, especially if you’re gifting the monitor to someone who likes to keep their laptop lid closed while working. It’s a little more luxe than most monitors on the market, but the S2722QC is the one to get this holiday season.

Best monitor riser: Grovemade Desk Shelf

Grovemade Desk Shelf

Grovemade

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Simple problems don’t have to get spartan solutions. Portland, Ore.-based design and fabrication shop Grovemade initially broke into the e-commerce ecosystem with engraved bamboo iPhone 4 cases and has been crafting an expanded range of workspace products ever since. A decade-plus later and the Grovemade Desk Shelf system, available in three sizes and multiple woods/finishes, is yet another product that shows how efficiency and ergonomics can be elegant. It’s a sleek platform to help align your virtual world with your real one, and it comes with shelf space that can store cords and keyboards or additional Grovemade trays, desk pads, and accessories you can add to your cocoon of productivity. Got some flagship headphones that deserve to be showcased? The Grovemade headphone stand is another statement piece that is as appealing as it is functional.

Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K

OBSBOT Tiny 2 Webcam 4K

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Webcams have become an essential home office accessory, and OBSBOT’s Tiny 2 PTZ 4K Webcam is among the best we’ve tried. The camera can stream or record incredibly crisp video, and will automatically compensate for poor lighting conditions to help the person you gift it to look their best. What makes the Tiny 2 PTZ 4K Webcam particularly distinctive is its rotating base, which allows the lens to track a person as they move up, down, left, or right. Free software provided by OBSBOT allows you to position the webcam perfectly and lock it in place, too. If you’re shopping for someone on a video call more than three times a week, this is a slam-dunk gift.

Best digital picture frame: Aura Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame

Sharing memories with less tech-savvy family members can be tough if you only see them a few times a year, which is why Aura’s Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame makes such a great gift. The 10.1-inch HD display can be loaded with photos remotely, so the person viewing them can keep up with your latest adventures. Multiple people can access the same frame so that siblings can share all of their family photos with parents or grandparents at once. Aura doesn’t charge for cloud storage either, so this picture frame will continue to show new pictures as long as it stays connected to the internet.

Best smart decoration: Twinkly Squares LED panels

twinkly Squares app-controlled LED smart decoration product image

twinkly

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Know someone who would want to automate some ambiance to elevate an environment? With the twinkly Squares, you can change the mood without changing location. These LED panels support 16 million colors and/or warm white light, and you can group them through an app for synced scenes of animated hues or 8-bit art. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow you to connect and control ON/OFF, dimming, timers, etc. Additional accessories like a USB sound sensor allow you to have your setup pulse and cycle to music. Other functions include integrating with Razer Chroma RGB or OMEN Light Studio for reactive lighting, and using voice commands via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This starter set includes 1 master tile and 5 extension tiles (64 RGB pixels total), and someone can add as many as their wall and imagination allow.

Best retro decoration: Lava Colormax lamp

14.5-inch lava lamp

Stan Horaczek

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The Lava Colormax is our best overall lava lamp because it fills your room with psychedelic nostalgia without overwhelming your space. The base, cap, and glass all sport a tri-colored design that would feel right at home in a wood panel & shag carpet rumpus room or maybe the back of a conversion van with a dragon painted on the side of it. Or just bring that vibe to your standing desk. At 14.5-inches tall, it’s not overwhelmingly huge, and the 25-watt bulb makes it glow without bathing much of your room in light. Because it gets its tint from paint on the outside of the glass, the colors look bright and vibrant. It takes a solid two hours to really get the lava moving around inside the glass container but, given the chance, will make video calls to video games way more groovy.

Best TV: Hisense U8K

Hisense U8K

Hisense

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We can’t think of a better holiday gift than a new TV, and Hisense’s U8K is the gold standard in its price range. The set is available in sizes ranging from 55 to a whopping 100 inches, but the 65-inch model will be the sweet spot for most people. The U8K has four HDMI ports, two of which support 4K gaming at 144Hz with high dynamic range enabled. This is a big deal if the gamer in your life has a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, as they’ll be able to play cutting-edge titles at their highest levels of fidelity. The U8K’s 1620 local dimming zones allow the TV to offer incredible contrast, while support for Dolby Vision IQ ensures colorful scenes look clear and natural rather than being blown out. If you’ve been saving up to set that special someone up with a really big gift, this should be your first (and arguably only) choice.

Best soundbar: Sonos Ray

Sonos Ray

Sonos

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Need a gift for the person who’s already satisfied with their TV (or monitor)? The best answer is a soundbar, specifically the Sonos Ray. The Ray’s short size (only 21-inches wide) allows it to fit on any entertainment center without poking off the sides. Sonos designed the Ray’s drivers to point forward so that sound won’t reverberate off the sides of a shelf or a wall. Despite its small size, we were happy with how the Ray sounded in our tests. It wouldn’t distort during loud movie sequences with explosions or other sudden sound pops. You won’t find a better-engineered soundbar at the Ray’s size price, and avid movie watchers will immediately pick up on the audio upgrade.

Best media streamer: Roku Stick 4K

Roku Stick 4K

Roku

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If a less tech-savvy member of your friend or family group is trying to get into streaming the latest binge-worthy shows and blockbuster movies, there’s no better gift than a Roku Streaming Stick 4K. The ultra-slim media streamer is intuitive and has a simple remote plus dedicated buttons to take users directly to the most popular streaming services. The Streaming Stick 4K can playback video at its highest possible resolution, and supports every HDR (high dynamic range) standard to deliver vibrant colors. We can also recommend this accessory for people who often travel, as it’s easy to throw into a bag and hook up to a hotel or Airbnb TV, so you’re already logged into all of your streaming service accounts wherever you go.

Best wireless charger: Twelve South PowerPic

Twelve South PowerPic

Twelve South

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Twelve South’s PowerPic is the most inventive wireless charger we’ve seen yet, and its unique design makes it an especially cool gift. The 10W wireless charging stand is built into a picture frame, allowing you to slip any 5×7-inch photo behind your phone’s resting spot. The picture will be revealed when the phone is not charging, so the PowerPic serves a dual purpose. If you know the person you’re gifting this to well enough, you can stealthily open the package, put in a meaningful picture, reseal it, then watch their face light up when it’s revealed.

Best gadget charger: Satechi Dock5

Satechi Dock5

Satechi

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Satechi Dock5 is a practical gift for anyone with several family members or roommates. The accessory has two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports, with dividers between each port so several gadgets can charge without looking messy. A Qi wireless charging pad toward the front of the Dock5 can recharge a pair of wireless earbuds or another small tech accessory. We all have someone in our lives with a messy, cable-filled section of their kitchen or living room, and this gift can resolve that issue.

Best whiteboard: Quartet Glass Whiteboard

Quartet Glass Whiteboard

Quartet

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Quartet’s Glass Whiteboard is an unexpected gift that fully remote workers and students will immediately understand and appreciate. The large canvas is perfect for sketching ideas, collaborating on tough problems, or something as simple as a hand-drawn calendar. Most of us are used to having all this information on a screen. Still, something is satisfying about being able to directly write, slash, and erase your work immediately rather than fiddling with a mouse cursor or stylus. Plus, Quartet’s Glass Whiteboard looks so nice that it practically invites people to use it right out of the box.

Best smart board: Vestaboard

We’ve never seen anything quite like the Vestaboard, which perfectly typifies the concept of ambient computing. The internet-connected smart board contains 132 “bits,” which flip to reveal different characters or colors. You can send messages to the Vestaboard through the company’s app, which is intuitive to use and comes pre-loaded with a few quotes and color patterns to show you its potential. A paid service called Vestaboard+ allows you to use applications to automate the board in even more creative ways, like displaying the current song you’re listening to through a streaming service, current sports scores, or playing a word game.

This is the ideal indulgent gift for someone who spends a lot of time in their home office or wants a fancy family bulletin board in their living room. Vestaboard owners can grant other people access to their board, allowing friends and family to send messages. The Vestaboard is a unique canvas for people to display meaningful quotes, words of encouragement, or mini works of art. We guarantee the person you gift it to won’t have seen anything like it.

Best home gardening system: Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System

Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System Indoor Garden Vertical Garden Planter

Gardyn

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In our tests, the Gardyn 2.0 has fulfilled the promise of being a (mostly) hands-free gardening tool for anyone who lacks a green thumb but wants to grow food. Once it’s set up, the Gardyn will automatically provide the correct amount of light (via LED light strips) and water (through a refillable tank), so there’s no room for error. It takes up to six weeks for plants to reach their full size, and it’s inspiring to see the plants sprout and grow over time. Two cameras on the LED light strips will automatically take pictures of your crops at regular intervals so that you can chart their progress at any time.

The Gardyn is a premium gift, but one that’ll quickly become the hit of your home. Children can learn about how food (and plant life in general) grows and the value of patience. After a few months, you can have a feast featuring fresh vegetables you’ve grown yourself—even if you live in a New York City apartment like I do.

Have a backyard or balcony and an interest in growing greens? Another option is the Lettuce Grow Farmstand starter set. This vertical hydroponic growing system starts with 12 pre-sprouted plants in a tower just under 4-feet tall, but can be customized to your space and budget. It only takes minutes each week to add the water and nutrients necessary and, within a month, you’re enjoying pesticide-free veggies, leafy greens, herbs, fruits, and lettuce.

Best fire pit: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 in action

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

If you’re shopping for someone who’s into backyard glamping , Solo Stove’s Bonfire 2.0 is the fire pit we recommend. It was designed to be “smokeless,” meaning a continuous flow of air, and an intelligently placed ash pan, prevent tons of smoke from billowing out of it constantly. There’ll still be some smoke but not enough to make your eyes water, which means campers can sit closer to it (but not too close) to enjoy its warmth. Solo Stove addressed our one complaint with the original Bonfire by making this model’s ash tray easily removable, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Best trash can: Brabantia Bo Touch

Brabantia Bo Touch Top Trash Waste:Recycling Garbage Can

Brabantia

SEE IT

Yes, we recommend you get someone in your life a trash can, but hear us out. Brabantia’s Bo Touch has a modern design that’s surprisingly eye-catching in person. Everybody needs a trash can, so why not gift them one they won’t mind looking at several times a day for decades? We also like the Bo Touch’s namesake feature: the ability to open and close its lid by lightly pressing it. Brabantia offers the Bo Touch in a handful of configurations, but the one we recommend has a single 9.5-gallon slot for trash. The person you gift this to may be confused initially, but they’ll quickly change their tune.

Most practical tech accessory: SnapPower GuideLight for Outlets

SnapPower GuideLight for Outlets

Snap Power

SEE IT

We’ve all used a phone flashlight to navigate around the house, which is why we’re certain about gifting SnapPower’s GuideLight to just about anybody in your life. The plate attaches to any duplex outlet and has a couple of small, downward-facing LEDs, which get triggered every time somebody walks by. All you need to install the GuideLight is a screwdriver; no previous electrical engineering experience is required. There’s not much to say about the GuideLight, but it’s an incredibly practical tool that’ll fit in anybody’s home.

Best desk lamp: Lume Cube Edge Light 2.0

Lume Cube Edge Light 2.0 Light

Lume Cube

SEE IT

An LED desk lamp is an essential accessory for anyone who works from home. It’s especially helpful as a source of illumination when making video calls. The Edge 2.0 is Lume Cube’s latest desk lamp; it has several points of articulation, which allows you to get the perfect angle below or beside a computer monitor. Its touch-sensitive base makes it easy to adjust the lamp’s illumination (up to 700 lumens) and color temperature (between 2700 and 7500 kelvin with a single swipe. Ease of use, flexibility, and design make this the perfect addition to anybody’s home office setup.

Best under-desk seated elliptical: Cubii MOVE

Cubii MOVE under-desk elliptical product image

Cubii

SEE IT

Ever feel like you’re just shuffling your feet, waiting for people to get back to you or for everyone to join a video conference? Feel like you’re just spinning your wheels, waiting for tech support to figure out what’s wrong with your laptop? Well, you—or your gift recipient—can turn purgatory (or any other time) into a type of productivity with one of the many compact Cubii under-desk elliptical systems. Aimed to help folks “get fit while you sit,” the low-impact apparatus turns fidgeting into function as you activate multiple muscle groups at the pedaling intensity you prefer, thanks to six selectable resistance levels. Whisper-quiet, the MOVE can live underneath your desk for daily use without distracting others but, at under 20 lbs, can also be easily moved if needed.

Best robot vacuum: Narwall Freo

Narwal Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop Comb

Narwal

SEE IT

Narwal’s Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop can do two annoying chores and does a surprisingly good job making your floors look neat. The vacuum’s sensors allow it to clean around obstacles like chairs, shoes, and walls without bumping into them and will prevent the Freo from falling down a flight of stairs. Additional sensors will know when the robot vacuum has hit a particularly dirty flooring patch and focus its energy there. A feature called “smart swing” will position the vacuum to to better clean around corners.

Once the Freo is done cleaning, it will base to charge and empty its dirt and dirty water into two chambers built into its base. The Freo Narwal can be set on a schedule to clean when your friend or family member is out of the house, so they won’t have to hear the whirring sound of a vacuum ever again. Ultimately, this is one of the few smart home tools that will truly save your friend or family member time.

Best over-the-top gift: Kül Water Dispenser

A white Kül Spark on a blue and white background

Kül

SEE IT

If you’re shopping for someone who’s really into health and hydration, or really misses the office experience of gathering around the water cooler to talk about the latest must-see TV, throw caution to the wind and get them the Kül Spark. The $1,500 water purification system can be hooked up to their plumbing and create cold, hot, ambient (room temp), or sparkling water free of over 80 contaminants. Don’t worry, there’s also the option to use a refillable water tank. We’ve tried the Kül Spark for ourselves, and the difference in taste is real. The Kül Spark’s ability to dial in the perfect temperature is equally impressive. A touch-sensitive control panel on the right-hand side of the machine makes it easy to choose which type of beverage you’d like to make or change certain settings. You can even see stats like how long it’s been since you’ve changed your filter, or how full your CO2 cartridges are. Yes, it’s luxe, but the Kül Spark is an incredibly generous gift for anyone who’s overly confident that their kitchen or home office has “everything.”

Best for the bathroom: Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead

Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead

Kohler

SEE IT

Do you know a bathroom karaoke superstar? Or someone who likes to start their day catching up on podcasts? No gift will make them happier than Kohler’s Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead. Installing it requires you just twist off your old showerhead and spin on the new one, a process that takes two minutes. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker sits in the center of the shower head, pumping out tunes or talk for several hours before needing to be recharged. The speaker was developed by Harman Kardon and sounds pretty good. Importantly, it’s easy to turn on and off with wet and soapy hands. This is one of those gifts they’ll never see coming, and will use every day.

Best note-taking tablet: BOOX Note Air2 Plus

BOOX Note Air2 Plus

BOOX

SEE IT

BOOX’s Note Air2 Plus is a large e-ink tablet for reading and note-taking. It’s expensive but well worth the price if you need a big gift for someone whose work or school program requires them to take copious notes. The 10.3-inch e-ink tablet runs Android, so the person you gift it to will have access to download specific apps for reading, note-taking, or opening specific file types like PDFs. Much of this functionality is built into the Note Air2 Plus, but, if they’re already familiar with an app, or need a specific piece of software as part of their workflow, the Note Air2 Plus will accommodate their needs far more than a Kindle or other e-Ink tablet. The tablet comes bundled with a stylus, which was remarkably responsive in our tests, allowing us to confidently write on it without worrying about missing a line or digital pen stroke. This is a very specific gift, but if you know someone who has filled up their fair share of notebooks, and wishes they could take all that information with them, this will become their go-to gadget.

Best surge protector: Austere VII Series Power 8-Outlet 

Austere VII Series Power 8-Outlet with USB-C PD Ports

Austere

SEE IT

This gift may not immediately impress, but is incredibly important for the home office worker. Austere’s VII Series Power 8-Outlet will protect their equipment in case of a sudden power surge, which could fry their computer, monitor, and other expensive tech accessories. Gifting someone this surge protector could save them thousands of dollars in the long run. We like Austere’s VII Series Power 8-Outlet because of its sturdy construction, seven-year guarantee, and USB ports, which allow you to charge smaller devices without taking up one of the outlets with a power adapter. Is this gift practical? Extremely. But no home office is truly complete without one.

The post The best productivity presents for home and office appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions https://www.popsci.com/gear/new-years-resolutions-ideas/ Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=502404
New Year's Resolution Gear
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

These are the gadgets we're picking up to help keep us accountable in 2023.

The post Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions appeared first on Popular Science.

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New Year's Resolution Gear
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

We’ve made it to 2023, which means the PopSci commerce and gear team has decided what our resolutions will be and what we’ll need to achieve them. It’s okay to be a New Year’s resolution skeptic—there are plenty of potential pitfalls in trying to make literal life-changing decisions overnight—but we’re taking a different approach. Our goals can be accomplished little by little over the course of the year, the gear we’re using won’t take up too much space, and we’re not afraid of facing some setbacks every little while. After all, it’s only self-care if it doesn’t cost you mental health. If you’re scrambling to figure out how to make your New Year’s resolutions happen, we hope our gear suggestions can provide a little clarity (and encouragement).

Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50

Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50

Jen McCaffery

SEE IT

An estimated 30 to 40 percent of the food supply in the United States is wasted, according to the USDA. If you’re looking to cut down on the amount of food waste you send to the landfill in 2023, Vitamix’s FoodCycler FC-50 can help. Just toss your vegetable peelings, egg shells, coffee grounds, and even chicken bones into the 2-liter container and press the on button. About four hours later, your scraps are turned into nutrient-rich soil you can use for your houseplants or in your garden. — Jen McCaffery, Director of Commerce

Kindle Paperwhite

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon

SEE IT

Too many times in 2022, I found myself laying in bed at 2 a.m., basking in the hypnotizing glow of TikTok. The lure of people arguing with belligerent neighbors or endless strings of air fryer chicken thigh recipes is just too strong. This year, I’m determined to replace those hours spent mindlessly swiping with reading, and I’m counting on Amazon’s Kindle Paperwhite to help me pull it off. The 6.8-inch touchscreen offers soft, warm light that won’t mess with my sleep after a marathon session spent reading Brandon Sanderson. Plus, the latest version charges via USB-C, so it’ll help my other resolution of getting rid of all the MicroUSB cables hanging around my house. — Stanley Horaczek, Executive Editor

Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee machine

Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Maker

Mr. Coffee

SEE IT

The iced coffee I like at a well-known chain has recently risen to nearly $6. Not even a raging caffeine addiction can justify that cost. This super-simple machine doesn’t rely on wasteful coffee pods and comes with an insulated cup, even though it works with pretty much any other cold up. It simply brews hot coffee over iced cubes, which is sure to make your coffee snob pals bristle, but it’s still better (and even cheaper) than the gas station swill I’ve been known to drink in the past. Plus, all that saved money leaves room in the coffee budget for fancy syrups to spruce up the wallet-friendly brew. — Stanley Horaczek, Executive Editor

Kindle Scribe

Kindle Scribe

Amazon

SEE IT

I’m trying to (finally) complete The Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron’s crash course in kickstarting your creativity after about two years of stopping halfway. Part of the journey includes journaling three pages every morning—simply called “morning pages.” If you do the math, that’s a lot of pages and trees. I’m hoping the Kindle Scribe—with its paperwhite display and pen that won’t leave ink marks on my hands first thing in the morning—will help protect the environment and be the fancy, shiny, neat thing that gives me enough dopamine to organize my morning pages and complete the separate chapter prompts in one convenient, digital place. Spiritual and creative clarity, here I come. — Amanda Reed, Commerce Updates Writer

Garmin Forerunner 955

Garmin Forerunner 955

Garmin

SEE IT

Setting a fitness goal is one thing, but having a way to track your progress and keep you motivated is another beast entirely. Garmin’s Forerunner 955 is sleek and attractive, so you won’t mind wearing it all day, but it has a nearly endless list of features and tricks. Though it’s geared toward runners, it can track a long list of activities. It also connects to your phone for full smartwatch capabilities and provides workout suggestions when you are stumped on how to move on a given day. Plus, it makes it easy to see how your training is going and how you are progressing toward your goals, giving you specific insight on how you can improve when needed. — Abigail Ferguson, Associate Editor PopPhoto

Nest Hub Max Smart Display

Nest Hub Max

Nest

SEE IT

Eating out (and ordering in) has always been pricier than cooking at home, but that is more true than ever right now. It’s hard fighting the temptation just to tap a few buttons and have food magically show up ready to eat at your door but, for me, having an easy way to follow recipes helps. I’m a recent Nest Hub enthusiast but have loved the larger screen that always stays on as I work through the steps of a recipe. And it makes it easy to store recipes I like in one place. But the biggest bonus is the ability to play music on something other than my phone, so I can jam out while I cook. It does wonders for making me not mind being in the kitchen even after a long day of work. — Abigail Ferguson, Associate Editor PopPhoto

Ring Fit Adventure

Ring Fit Adventure

Nintendo

SEE IT

I will be making a concerted effort to be more active after years of COVID-inflicted lethargy, but my tool of choice may seem a little strange: a video game. Ring Fit Adventure is a game for the Nintendo Switch that comes with a Pilates ring and leg strap with slots for the system’s Joy-Con controllers. Accelerometers and gyroscopes in the Joy-Con can track your movement, which correlates to actions happening in the game. Instead of passively choosing an attack, you defeat enemies by doing squats, curls, and other exercises. As an avid gamer, I hope Ring Fit Adventure can slot into my lifestyle more easily than a set of barbells. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit

iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit can empower you to repair your old technology rather than recycling it (or worse).

iFixit

SEE IT

Repairing technology can feel daunting, especially when many companies make documentation and spare parts difficult (if not impossible) to get, but that will not deter me next year. I have a great deal of respect for iFixit, a site that offers step-by-step instructions on how to disassemble and reassemble gadgets along with links to parts when possible. The site offers a tool kit with bits, spudgers, tweezers, and everything else you’ll need to get into your gear safely and easily. This kit is notable for featuring pentalobe screws, which are proprietary and designed by Apple. If you plan on joining the DIY movement next year, this kit deserves a spot in your workspace. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2

owers & Wilkins Px7 S2

Bowers & Wilkins

SEE IT

I’m ashamed to say I have a huge music backlog, but I plan to listen to one new (to me) album from front to back every day in 2023. I reserve the right to listen to one disc of a two-CD (or LP) record because I make the rules. While I love speakers, my tool of choice this time will be Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2s, which are infinitely more portable. These Bluetooth headphones are the closest I’ve come to taking my at-home audio system—which consists of wired headphones, a tube amp, and a DAC—with me everywhere I go. Music sounds superb, the headphones are very comfortable, and their active noise cancellation is always top-notch. This is the resolution I’m most excited about, if for no other reason than spending dozens of hours with the Px7 S2s on my head. Maybe, if I’m feeling extra committed, I’ll even upgrade to the B&W Px8, the brand’s flagship wireless headphones that further refine the physical build and sonic profile. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

Brava Oven Starter Set

Brava Oven Starter Set

Brava

SEE IT

Cooking at home more often is my final resolution of 2023, and the Brava Oven is the key to making it happen. The 10-in-1 oven supports multi-zone heating and makes a whole dinner faster than a conventional oven or stovetop. The oven can be operated using an app or its built-in touch screen, and Brava is continually updating its recipe library with new dishes to fit any dietary restrictions. Yes, it’s luxe, but cutting out one takeout order per week using the Brava will allow the machine to pay for itself. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

OTOTO Gracula Garlic Crusher

OTOTO Gracula Garlic Crusher

OTOTO

SEE IT

I love garlic and plan on cooking more. This Gracula garlic crusher takes knife work out of the equation when presentation isn’t important and helps you get close to a minced consistency in a fraction of the time. On top of saving prep time, a way to work more fresh garlic into meals has the benefits of being a natural antibacterial/detoxifier, aiding blood circulation/lowered blood pressure, while also repelling vampires. Plus, it just tastes good. — Billy Cadden, Director of Commerce

AQUAFIT One Gallon Water Bottle

AQUAFIT One Gallon Water Bottle

AQUAFIT

SEE IT

I wish this fit into my Aarke seltzer maker, but I guess good old-fashioned flat water will do. While attempting to cook more garlic-rich meals and use my Tempo daily, I decided to snag a gallon water bottle to keep me hydrated. Or at least try to convince me to stay hydrated. I bet you $10 it sits on my bedside table with the same water for weeks. — Billy Cadden, Director of Commerce

Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie and Pearl iZUMi Prospect Barrier Jacket

Arc'Teryx and Pearl iZUMi layers for hiking/biking

Arc’Teryx/Pearl iZUMi

SEE IT

In 2023, I want to get outdoors more. Hiking. Biking. Though I love reporting on tech, I need to get away from it more, even if for only a few hours. Just because I’m coming out of my virtual (and real) shell doesn’t mean I won’t need a protective layer or two, however. The Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie is a multisport midlayer that’s far from middle of the road. A worthwhile investment, it’s light, soft, stretchy, and, most importantly, surprisingly warm when traveling on the trail. Did I say I’m coming out of my shell? That doesn’t mean I won’t need some wind and water resistance if I’m in the saddle in the city, so I’m also hanging the Pearl iZUMi Prospect Barrier Jacket in my closet when I need something to cut a brisk breeze and absorb a bit of light rain and road spray. — Tony Ware, Associate Managing Editor, Commerce

Vasque Men’s Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boots

Vasque Men's Breeze waterproof hiking boots on the trail with the bestest dog

Tony Ware

SEE IT

If I’m going to maintain my getting-outdoors-more resolution throughout 2023, I need accessories that can also go the distance. And one of the most important is trusty mid-range footwear. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to … boot … the Vasque Breeze immediately impressed me by requiring zero break-in, then continued to impress me with its stability and traction. While I haven’t submerged my feet to test the proprietary VasqueDry waterproofing fully, I’ve had no complaints following some light but sustained drizzles. And, with each component of the boot’s construction being made from 25%, 60%, and sometimes 100% recycled materials, I can feel better for the Earth as I explore it. — Tony Ware, Associate Managing Editor, Commerce

The post Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> What to do with your brand new console before you start gaming https://www.popsci.com/diy/how-to-set-up-new-nintendo-switch-xbox-ps5/ Wed, 28 Dec 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=502236
Close up to hands holding a Playstation 5 controller
Change the key settings on your console before you start gaming.

You want to make sure your console works exactly how you like it before you dive into gaming.

The post What to do with your brand new console before you start gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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Close up to hands holding a Playstation 5 controller
Change the key settings on your console before you start gaming.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If you’ve got yourself a brand new PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or Nintendo Switch, your first instinct will probably be to dive in right away and start gaming. And as much fun as that sounds, it’s worth pausing and spending some time tweaking the console’s settings first.

From making sure the graphics are optimized on your television screen, to reducing the amount of power your gaming machine draws, playing around with these settings can make a significant difference. Once you’ve configured them to your satisfaction, the gaming can begin.

How to configure your brand new Sony PlayStation 5

On the PS5 you can get to the Settings screen via the cog icon in the top-right corner of the main interface. One key option that’s worth changing is Performance Mode or Resolution Mode, which you’ll find under Saved Data and Game/App Settings and Game Presets. Here you can either prioritize performance, resulting in higher frame rates and smoother on-screen graphics; or resolution, resulting in a higher pixel count and a crisper image. Some games can max out both, but if you need to compromise, here you can choose where you’d rather cut resources.

[Related: Xbox Series X vs PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles]

Another feature we’d recommend turning on is the variable refresh rate or VRR. This feature pushes frame rates higher by allowing your hardware to change the game’s refresh rate on the fly, resulting in smoother gameplay and less stuttering on compatible games and screens. To set this up on the PS5, open Settings and head to Screen and Video, Video Output, and VRR. Only some titles, TVs, and monitors support VRR, so if you’re not sure if your setup is among them, search online for the make and model of your display to find out. 

To get a better idea of how much power your PS5 is using up, go to Settings and head to System, and then Power Saving. There are three options to configure here: How long the console should wait before going into rest mode, which features (such as internet access) remain accessible in rest mode, and how long the delay should be before the controllers automatically turn off. Each option affects how much energy the PS5 consumes.

It’s also a good idea to take some time to customize the setup of your controllers—you’re going to be spending a long time holding them, after all. From Settings, choose Accessories and Controller (General). As well as options for adjusting the intensity of vibrations and trigger effects, you can change the controller’s speaker volume and even remap certain buttons to suit your way of playing.

How to configure your brand new Microsoft Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S

On the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S you can get to the Settings screen via the cog icon in the top right corner of the main interface. Once you’re there, if your console is hooked up to a TV, your first stop should be to make sure they play nicely together. To check if your Xbox is set to the right resolution for your screen go to General, TV & display options, and then Resolution. From TV & Display options you’ll also be able to give your console the power to turn your TV on and off automatically—just go to Device control then HDMI-CEC.

To customize the level of energy your Xbox needs through features like Remote Access and Sleep mode, go to Settings, pick General and then go to Power options. You can either pick one of the presets or choose Customize power options for more detailed control. Notice the bar on the right: it will keep updating to show you how much power your device will use while it’s off under the current settings.

You definitely don’t want to dive into gaming without customizing the screenshot options—otherwise, you might miss capturing a moment of glory. In Settings, you can pick Preferences then Capture & share to change which controller buttons do what in terms of screen capture, and set defaults for the video capture resolution and clip length.

It’s also a good idea to make sure that notifications from games and the Xbox system itself work just how you like them before you load up any games—you don’t want a pop-up appearing in the middle of the action. Choose Preferences and then Notifications from the Settings screen, to configure which type of events generate notifications, how long they show up for, and where on screen they appear.

How to configure your brand-new Nintendo Switch

To find the Settings panel on a Nintendo Switch, select System Settings (the button showing the cog icon) from the main home screen. If you’ve bought the console for a child, you might want to put an age limit on the games they can play by selecting Parental Controls and Parental Control Settings. You’ll find more advanced controls, such as screen time restrictions, through the companion app available for Android and iOS.

The Nintendo Switch was designed for gaming on the go, and with that in mind, it’s important that you always know how much battery life you’ve got left. The default indicator up in the top right corner is pretty helpful, but you can get a more accurate reading by selecting System and then Console Battery % from Settings.

[Related: Nintendo Switch vs. Lite: Which of Nintendo’s handheld gaming consoles should you buy?]

You’ll also want to control when your Switch console goes to sleep, which you can configure through Settings by picking System Settings and then Sleep Mode. Here you’ll be able to set the amount of time your device should sit inactive before it starts to conserve energy. And if you’re using your Switch to watch a lot of videos, you might want to check the Suspend Auto-Sleep While Playing Media Content option so that the screen doesn’t suddenly go dark in the middle of viewing.

Finally, remember that Nintendo built the Switch to be social. Select your profile picture (top left) from the main home screen, and you’ll be able to add specific friends and see suggestions the Switch has for you. You should also pay attention to the User Settings option—here you can set which friends can see which bits of your activity on the device, as well as configure what you’re sharing to your social media accounts.

The post What to do with your brand new console before you start gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> The best PS4 games for kids in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-ps4-games-for-kids/ Tue, 09 Aug 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=460760
Best PS4 Games for Kids
Mike Epstein

This roundup is rated E for Everyone.

The post The best PS4 games for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best PS4 Games for Kids
Mike Epstein

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Best PS4 Games for Kids Rocket League
SEE IT

Rocket League’s unique arcade-style spin on soccer is simultaneously competitive and friendly fun.
Best Adventure Best PS4 Games for Kids Sackboy: A Big Adventure
SEE IT

Sackboy, the star of Sony’s creative LittleBigPlanet games finally gets to star in a game all his own.
Best for families Best PS4 Games for Kids Overcooked! All You Can Eat
SEE IT

Frantic and exciting, Overcooked! All You Can Eat compiles two food-focused time attack games in a single compilation.

As more and more popular AAA PlayStation 4 games feature themes and content made for adults, it may take a little care to find games that feel right for kids. Just a little, though: From long-standing hits like Minecraft and Rocket League to funny adventures like LEGO Star Wars, there are tons of great, kid-friendly games for kids and families on PlayStation consoles. The best PS4 games for kids stand the test of time and are perfect for young PS4 and PS5 players alike.

How we picked the best PS4 games for kids

I’ve covered games and gaming hardware for many publications, including Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and NBC Select. As an avid player and game designer, I’ve logged thousands of hours on titles ranging from big-budget blockbusters to the latest indie games on Nintendo Switch.

To pick the best PS4 games for kids, we leveraged our collective experience at PopSci, as well as reviews from professional critics. We considered how each title would sit with kids and parents, weighing elements like difficulty, accessibility, age rating, multiplayer options, and online content more heavily than usual. 

The best PS4 games for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

Our favorite PlayStation 4 games for kids encompass a range of genres and styles. All of them are critically acclaimed and stand head and shoulders above cheaper games you might find on a smartphone or tablet. We’ve included the official ESRB age rating, as well as the age range we think would get the most out of each title.

Best overall: Rocket League

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Psyonix

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Easy to play yet hard to master, Rocket League mixes sports and racing to create endlessly fun.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 4-7
  • Playtime: N/A

Pros

  • Easy to understand rules and goals
  • Local and online multiplayer
  • Bite-sized matches

Cons

  • Special cars available via in-game purchases

Even after 7 years, there’s no game quite like Rocket League. The basic concept is simple: It’s 1-on-1, 2-on-2, or 3-on-3 soccer, but you control rocket-powered cars instead of people. Each player controls their own car, speeding around to bump a giant, floaty ball into their opponent’s goal.

Rocket League’s cars have a unique driving feel, in large part because you can make your car jump and even flip around in the air, opening the door for precise shooting and passing … if you can get the timing right. Rocket League is pick up and play, but mastering the game can take hours and hours of practice. Regardless of your skill level, though, it’s a lot of fun chasing down the ball, scoring goals, and making quick saves.

When the standard soccer game mode gets stale, there are a variety of alternate rules to keep things fresh. Kids and adults who play soccer or love cars will find something to enjoy in Rocket League. Best of all, you can download it for free through the PlayStation store.

Best adventure: Sackboy: A Big Adventure

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Sony

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Sackboy is a vibrant platformer in a bright, friendly toy-box world that’s fun solo or with a group.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 4-7
  • Playtime: ~15 hours

Pros

  • Cute and creative world
  • Non-competitive multiplayer co-op
  • Joyful original and licensed music

Cons

  • Repetitive platforming challenges

Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a platforming adventure where you run, jump, and slide your way through dozens of amazingly creative and imaginative levels. With an arts-and-craftsy toybox aesthetic, evoking Sackboy’s origins in the game-creator series LittleBigPlanet, every inch of the game looks homespun and patched together. You’ll see characters spun from yarn, trees that look patched together, and obstacles that may be everyday objects like a large cardboard box. The end result is a toys-come-to-life world where creativity and imagination defeat the bad guys.

Sackboy can be played solo or with a group. We found its colorful levels, cartoonish villains, and pop music covers best enjoyed with a group on the couch.

Best for families: Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Team17

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Chaotic multiplayer in increasingly hilarious settings makes this game the most fun you can have cooking virtual meals.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 7-10
  • Playtime: ~45 hours

Pros

  • Fun and chaotic gameplay
  • Hundreds of creative levels
  • Local and online co-op

Cons

  • Can be repetitive

No game series gets a family cheering and shouting like Overcooked. Compiling both Overcooked games, All You Can Eat drops 2-4 players into the shoes of line cooks in some of the craziest kitchens you’ve ever seen, asking them to prepare food on top of moving trucks, in haunted castles, and other absurd scenarios. The “cooking” is very simple so it’s easy for even new players to pick up. Learning to communicate well and work fast, though … may be a challenge.

Best racing: Hot Wheels Unleashed

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Milestone

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Hot Wheels Unleashed captures the joy of toy cars with beautiful, accessible racing action.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to two (co-op) 
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 7-10
  • Playtime: ~18 hours

Pros

  • Fast and exciting racing
  • Easy controls
  • Robust track editor

Cons

  • In-game loot boxes

Hot Wheels Unleashed captures the spirit of playing with toy cars beautifully. Controlling the legendary toy cars, you race along the toy line’s familiar plastic tracks surrounded by giant living rooms, kitchens, and more. It’s an arcade-style racer, with plenty of larger-than-life speed boosts and loop-de-loop ramps. (Or are they smaller-than-life?)

You can play with the tracks, too, of course. An extremely detailed level editor gives you all the tools you need to make exciting new races. You could quickly lose hours building the race course of your dreams.

Best action: LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

Best Ps4 Games for Kids

Warner Bros. Games

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The biggest LEGO game ever tackles all three Star Wars trilogies with action and humor.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to two (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
  • Best for ages: 10-12
  • Playtime: ~40 hours

Pros

  • Story encompasses nine different Star Wars films
  • Play as dozens of iconic characters
  • Cute and funny

Cons

  • Some co-op sections leave one player out

TT Games’ many Lego video games follow a simple, but effective formula: Take an iconic movie or TV property, and retell the plotline as a funny kids’ story using LEGO aesthetics and a healthy dose of slapstick. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga perfects the formula, telling the stories from all nine of the core Star Wars films, from Episode I – The Phantom Menace to Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker. Every level is immersive and action-packed, with lots of lightsaber and blaster fights, stealth sequences, puzzle-solving, and more.

Some of the story-focused cutscenes can fall a bit flat in co-op when one player controls an unnamed soldier, but these moments can’t spoil this funny, charming spin on one of pop culture’s most beloved stories.

Best survival: Minecraft

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Microsoft

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Minecraft is the best-selling game of all time for a reason. It’s endlessly creative and incredibly approachable for kids and adults alike.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op and online)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
  • Best for ages: 10-12
  • Playtime: ~85 hours

Pros

  • Endless variety in building and crafting
  • Immersive and accessible visuals
  • Play solo, co-op, or online

Cons

  • Lack of tutorials can be confusing

With over 200 million copies sold across over a dozen platforms, Minecraft is a pop culture phenomenon that kids still love. If you’ve never had the pleasure, Minecraft is a survival game where players explore a blocky, pixelated world and build all kinds of creations.

At first, Minecraft is mostly about defending yourself from hostile night-time creatures like skeletons and Creepers. But after a few hours, it opens up into the ultimate sandbox where you can build almost anything and explore a near-endless pastoral world filled with underground secrets to uncover.

Kids interested in real-life arts and crafts will find a lot to enjoy in Minecraft. Be aware that the game does have an online mode where you can play with friends and strangers.

Best story: Ratchet and Clank (2016)

Best PS4 games for kids

Sony

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Why it made the cut: Ratchet & Clank is an interplanetary adventure full of memorable characters, beautiful visuals, and wacky action kids will love.

Specs

  • Number of players: One 
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
  • Best for ages: 10-12
  • Playtime: ~13 hours

Pros

  • Beautiful graphics
  • Cinematic story
  • Wacky weapons

Cons

  • Short playtime

The PS4 chapter of a long-running action-platformer series, Ratchet & Clank (2016), is a beautified reboot of the series’ first chapter, which launched on the PlayStation 2 in 2002. Much of the action revolves around cartoonish gunplay, with Ratchet and Clank pulling out absurd lasers, missile launchers, and wacky weapons like the Groovitron, which make enemies dance instead of fight.

With a story and visual presentation that aspires to Pixar-level cinematic excellence, Ratchet & Clank pulls you in with beautiful visuals and funny writing only rivaled by its PS5-exclusive successor, Ratchet and Clank: A Rift Apart. Immersive environments, memorable characters, and funny dialogue make this one of the best ways to introduce kids to more story-focused games.

Best for older kids: Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018)

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Sony

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Swinging around New York City as Spider-Man is a joy like no other.

Specs

  • Number of players: One
  • ESRB rating: Teen
  • Best for ages: 13+
  • Playtime: ~35 hours

Pros

  • Swinging around NYC is incredible
  • Dramatic and well-told story
  • Beautiful graphics

Cons

  • Supervillain fights are more flash than substance

If LEGO Star Wars is like a Saturday morning cartoon, Marvel’s Spider-Man is akin to a marquee movie. In Sony’s version, Spider-Man is slightly older and wiser than his teenage onscreen counterpart, while Peter Parker has to deal with bigger responsibilities.

What sets Marvel’s Spider-Man apart from other versions of the story, or other comic book games, is how playing really makes you feel like Spider-Man. You can swing on webs all around Manhattan, stopping street crime and saving civilians. Technically, you can take the subway to immediately reach your destination, but Spidey’s gravity-defying, high-flying moves feel so good that you’ll probably opt for a scenic swing along Central Park.

Kids who love superheroes and action games will definitely enjoy Marvel’s Spider-Man. That said, it’s worth noting that this game is rated T for Teen and features some themes that may not be right for very young kids.

Best free: Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout

Best PS4 Games for Kids

Epic Games

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Why it made the cut: Fall Guys is one of the easiest games for kids to pick up and play, but stays exciting thanks to its winner-takes-all format.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (online)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 4-7
  • Playtime: ~28 hours

Pros

  • Very easy to play and enjoy
  • Colorful characters and levels
  • Free to play

Cons

  • Lots of in-game purchases available

Fall Guys is a chaotic online party game where up to 100 pill-shaped characters compete in obstacle courses and minigames, whittling down the number of players until one is crowned champion.

In a bright, bouncy, and colorful world, you run, jump, and dive through pastel, candy-coated landscapes while racing to the finish line, or playing wacky takes on soccer, keep-away, and other games for large groups.

Fall Guys is a great option for kids who play with friends online rather than in-person. Only one person can play at home, but you can form an online group of up to four people to play with. It includes an option to voice chat but it’s turned off by default.
The game is free-to-play but includes a wide variety of in-game items that can be bought with real money. Be sure to set a spending limit on your PS4 through the console’s parental controls.

What to consider when shopping for the best PS4 games for kids

Shopping for video games as a parent is hard, especially if you aren’t an avid gamer yourself. Most coverage from dedicated games publications focuses on what’s coming next, so it may be difficult to look back and find great games that are even a few years old if they’re no longer top search results. When looking for games to play with kids, keep the following in mind:

What kinds of games does the kid like to play?

When picking a game to play with another person, you want to make sure you’re getting something that they’ll like. Pay attention to what games really grab their attention when they play and/or watch on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. Often, you’ll find patterns emerge, even if many of the games look completely different at a glance. For example, Fortnite and Among Us look wildly different but they are both competitive, multiplayer games that allow players to speak to each other online.

If nothing else, it never hurts to ask. In fact, picking a game with them may help both of you get more excited about playing together.

How to tell if a game is appropriate for your child

All games carry an age rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), ranging from “Everyone (E)” to “Adults Only (AO).” The ESRB website features a database of every game it has rated, which includes the rating and some basic information about its content—such as whether it includes graphic violence or “sexual themes.” You can also find the ESRB rating and some basic info on the back cover of physical game boxes.

ESRB ratings are a good starting point but don’t give you the full picture. We recommend looking up any game meant for kids before purchasing. You can learn a lot more information about any game by reading reviews and checking parent-focused media sites like Common Sense Media. 

How many players does the game allow?

It’s one thing if you’re a solo gamer hunched in front of a great gaming TV or monitor. If you’re picking a game for a household with many gamers, however, you want to make sure and pick a game with “local” multiplayer, which means that multiple players can play together on a single console at once. Many multiplayer games only allow you to play with friends online, which isn’t ideal for a group of kids or a family sitting around one TV. That said, plenty of games let two, three, or four people play from the same console.

Also, keep in mind that some multiplayer games offer cooperative multiplayer modes, where you work together, and others focus on competitive multiplayer, where you work against other players. Many competitive multiplayer games also have cooperative elements, but it’s always a good idea to know exactly what you’re getting into.

Are there any online interactions?

Online games like Fortnite and Minecraft are very popular, but allow you to speak with strangers online. These interactions receive only the slightest bit of moderation, so it’s up to you to figure out whether or not your child is ready for it. You can find out whether a game offers the ability to chat with strangers on the product packaging and the product listing for the game on the PlayStation Store.

Are there additional in-game purchases?

Many games, particularly online multiplayer titles, allow you to purchase access to digital clothing and items for your character, as well as new content. We recommend talking to kids about digital storefronts before giving them access to a new game, as well as setting up parental controls for in-game purchases.

FAQs

Q: What PlayStation is good for kids?

The PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 are both great consoles for players of all ages. Both consoles have lots of great games for kids and adults. If you’re buying a new console, we recommend looking for a PS5, as it is the current active console and can play all but a handful of PS4 games, plus many exclusives. That said, with limited supply making PS5s hard to find, it may be easier and cost less to buy a PS4. Since many companies still release PS4 versions of their games, it still feels like an active console ecosystem.

Q: Does the PS4 have educational games?

We wouldn’t recommend the PS4 specifically for educational games. Many kids’ games on PS4 have educational elements, but games that help teach academic skills like reading and math are more common on computer and mobile devices.

Q: Are there any free games for kids on PS4?

There are many free games for kids on PS4, including Fortnite, Fall Guys, Rocket League, and more. These games are often called “free-to-play,” because you can download and play them without spending money, but they feature lots of in-game purchases, most of which revolve around new cosmetic options for your characters.

Q: What is the minimum safe age for a child to play PS4?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under the age of two should not engage in any screen time and kids between two and five should only look at a screen for up to one hour per day. Based on that recommendation, we’d recommend waiting until they’re at least age 5 to introduce them to games. In terms of content, there’s no hard and fast rule. There are many games made for young children, so you could theoretically start showing kids how to play games at a very young age.

Final thoughts on the best PS4 games for kids

The best PS4 games for kids are a mix of colorful adventure games, high-octane racing games, and story-focused action titles. Kids of all ages can find something to love on PS4. Adults with PS5s can also enjoy these titles, as all of them are available for both PS4 and PS5.

The post The best PS4 games for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]> ‘Fortnite’ owner agrees to $520 million FTC settlement in messy child privacy case https://www.popsci.com/technology/epic-games-fornite-520-million-ftc-settlement-child-privacy/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=500765
Gamer playing Fortnite on laptop using video game controller
Two separate fines add up to the a record-shattering sum for Epic Games. Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Hamleys

Epic Games was also accused of engaging in 'dark pattern' in-app purchases schemes.

The post ‘Fortnite’ owner agrees to $520 million FTC settlement in messy child privacy case appeared first on Popular Science.

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Gamer playing Fortnite on laptop using video game controller
Two separate fines add up to the a record-shattering sum for Epic Games. Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Hamleys

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Epic Games has agreed to pay over $520 million as part of a multi-record-breaking settlement with the Federal Trade Commission. Per the FTC, the makers behind the massively popular video game, Fortnite, were originally accused of not only tricking players into making unintentional in-game payments, but also violating children’s privacy as defined within the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The new Epic Games’ settlement comes without an admission or denial of the FTC’s allegations. 

Although technically free to play, much of Fortnite’s profits stem from in-game purchases for digital perks like character dance moves, virtual concerts, and costumes. The FTC alleges that Epic Games relied on a marketing strategy known as “dark patterns,” which The Wall Street Journal described on Monday as “tactics that trap customers into paying for goods and services and create obstacles to canceling.”

[Related: A parent’s guide to playing Fortnite with your kids.]

Additionally, the FTC argued that Epic Games routinely collected the personal data of children under 13-years-old without their parents’ consent or knowledge through Fortnite, which counts as many as 400 million users globally. According to the esports betting platform, Thunderpick, over a quarter of the game’s players are estimated to reside in the US. Fortnite’s previous live-by-default setting for in-game audio and text chatting is said to have also adversely affected teens and children, who could be subject to harassment, bullying, or predatory behavior.

Epic Games will pay a $275 million penalty over accusations of violating COPPA stipulations, the largest ever fine for an FTC rule violation, alongside $245 million in customer refunds over accusations of its dark pattern strategies—itself the largest refund in a gaming case. As part of the settlement, Epic agreed to what the FTC calls its largest ever administrative order to change a company’s consumer policy. Epic Games adopted strict new default privacy guidelines for children and teens in September 2022, which turned off voice and text communications unless manually changed in Fortnite’s settings. Any previous user data collected by Epic in violation of COPPA regulations must be deleted, unless parents explicitly express consent otherwise.

[Related: Social media scammers made off with $770 million last year.]

According to the FTC’s announcement, employees expressed concern internally regarding Epic Games’ lax safeguards for some of its youngest players as far back as 2017. When the company finally got around to introducing a button disabling voice chat, however, the complaint alleges it was made intentionally difficult to locate.

Correction on December 12, 2022: This article has been updated to reflect Epic Games began defaulting to the highest privacy option for players under the age of 18 in September 2022, not as a direct result of the FTC settlement.

The post ‘Fortnite’ owner agrees to $520 million FTC settlement in messy child privacy case appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> Audeze Penrose X wireless gaming headset review: Planar-magnetic power https://www.popsci.com/reviews/audeze-penrose-x-review/ Tue, 27 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=383593
Audeze Penrose gaming headset
Love the Madonna-style mic. Stan Horacczek

Lots of low-end makes the Audeze Penrose X a top-tier gaming headset.

The post Audeze Penrose X wireless gaming headset review: Planar-magnetic power appeared first on Popular Science.

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Audeze Penrose gaming headset
Love the Madonna-style mic. Stan Horacczek

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Bass is important when it comes to video game sound. You want to hear the low rumble of your laser rifle as it hums wave after wave of pain at your digital enemies. When you finally blow up that generator you had to go through all those aliens to get to, you really want to feel the explosion. Low-end gives the game its oomph. Powered by Audeze’s planar-magnetic drivers, this wireless gaming headset doesn’t fuss too much with spatial audio or super-convincing surround. But it does churn out ample volume and rumble in a semi-luxurious package. The Audeze Penrose X gaming headset has oomph to spare.

Audeze Penrose X gaming headset

Stan Horacczek

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What is the Audeze Penrose wireless planar-magnetic headset?

Planar-magnetic headphones like the Audeze Penrose X work differently than the typical over-the-ear ’phones you’re probably used to, which rely on cone-shaped drivers made of paper, plastic, or metal. This setup can produce some truly wonderful sounds but also experience distortion when that cone doesn’t move in perfect harmony. 

Audeze’s planar-magnetic headphones, however, employ massive, flat, extremely thin diaphragms and powerful magnet arrays that can move large amounts of air without malforming, which prevents the sound from breaking up and sounding, well, crappy. The ability to maintain a composed tone even during intense sonic workouts gained Audeze headphones a sizeable following among audiophiles. Now the technology has trickled down.

Outside of the earcups, the Penrose headset looks and feels rather familiar. It’s extremely similar to the HyperX Orbit headset I’ve used for gaming in the past. The Penrose keeps all of its built-in controls on the bottom of the left earcup. You can adjust the mic volume, the audio level, and play/pause music with a single button. It’s a pretty standard setup.

Connecting the Audeze Penrose X

Audeze Penrose X wireless dongle
The wireless dongle provides a fast connection, but it’s large. Stan Horacczek

Before hearing the boom coming from those drivers, we must first connect the Audeze Penrose X to an audio source. I tested out the Xbox-specific model of the Penrose, which works with Microsoft’s Xbox Series X next-gen gaming console, as well as a PC (there’s also a variant designed specifically for PlayStation, PC, and Mac). 

The main connection comes from a dongle that creates a low-latency 2.4GHz connection between the machine and the headset. In the gaming world, latency is universally bad. The faster the headphones can talk to the console or computer, the less delay there is between the in-game action and your eardrums. The dongle is nearly 2 inches long and has a hardware switch to go between Xbox and PC mode. From a design standpoint, it feels a bit dated, but the connection is fast and reliable, so we’ll accept function over fashion in this case. 

You can also connect to the Audeze Penrose X headset using the included 3.5mm audio cable. Even with a direct connection, however, the headphones need to be charged to pump out sound, unlike some more consumer-oriented headphones like the excellent Sony WH-1000XM4.

The Audeze Penrose X headphones can also connect via Bluetooth, which seemed to work just fine, but you’re paying for the speed of the wireless connection, and these are too bulky to wear around on the street, so Bluetooth is best as a backup. It can also come in handy if you want to dual-pair the Penrose with a mobile device. Most players handle this with a service like Discord running on the PC, but if you want to save all that processing power for gaming and streaming, you can get your smartphone into the mix. 

How does the Audeze Penrose X gaming headset sound?

Audeze Penrose X gaming headset
Here’s a closer look at the controls on the bottom of the left earcup. Stan Horacczek

I spent the first few days with the Penrose setup just like it is out of the box. There’s always the temptation to start tweaking away immediately, but I think it’s important to hear the default settings since many players will never change them. 

As expected, the bass booms. In-game explosions I caused sounded perfectly satisfying thanks to those 100mm drivers (in comparison, dynamic headphone drivers average 30mm to 50mm). Explosions my opponents caused were appropriately infuriating. The same was true when watching content. I streamed the wonderfully ridiculous Nicolas Cage classic Con Air, and while the Penrose couldn’t do anything about Cage’s perplexing accent, it did justice to the epic crash near the film’s end. 

The mids sound great, too. In-game dialog sounds crisp and clear for the most part. Things start to get a little less flattering in the highs. Planar-magnetic drivers do everything they can to manage distortion, but I found the highs harsh under the standard configuration. Listening to “Latin Grammys” by Action Bronson, the “s” sounds and higher-pitched parts of the beat had a slight edge that my ear didn’t love. I noticed a similar phenomenon while gaming. Alien screeching is supposed to be unpleasant, but it bordered on physically uncomfortable if I kept the volume too high. 

Tweaking the settings

Audeze doesn’t expect everyone to like the stock tuning, so the company built an app for mobile and PC to specifically to customize the overall sound. I found the app nicely designed and easy to navigate. Of course, dialing in the sound quality you want requires some knowledge or at least considerable patience when it comes to trial and error. I spent about 20 minutes messing around with the settings until I tamed the treble and got it dialed to what I liked. 

You must create your own presets by adjusting individual channels unless you want to download presets from the Audeze site. Some presets address specific types of music, while others provide sound tweaked to work with individual video games. So, if you want the ideal Rocket League or Call of Duty: Warzone mix, you can download it. I tried it with Call of Duty: Warzone (a game at which I’m truly terrible) and didn’t notice a profound difference in performance. But, the difference may be more pronounced if you spend every waking hour in the game.

To be clear, the sound quality was totally fine—and even excellent in the low-end—before the tweaking. But if you spend $300 on a headset, it’s worth the extra effort to get it just right. 

What about this “spatial audio” thing?

If you follow high-end gaming gear, you may be familiar with Penrose’s bigger sibling, the Audeze Mobius. That $400 headset (!) commands an even more premium price thanks to its advanced chops regarding spatial audio. The Mobius has built-in head tracking and knows when you move your noggin, adjusting the soundstage to match. (You can read our full thoughts on that headset here.)

The Audeze Penrose X, on the other hand, doesn’t support any of that advanced spatial stuff. Audeze clearly states that the Penrose was designed as a two-channel system for maximum quality in a stereo arrangement. The console can still pump out “3D sound” via platforms like Dolby Atmos, but its effect is somewhat limited. It may sound like a strict downgrade, but some people (like me) prefer this setup. I sometimes find the hardcore spatial stuff a little too immersive; you already know what I mean if you’ve ever played a horror game in an expensive pair of head-tracking headphones. If you haven’t and you’re thinking about trying it, make sure you don’t have a full cup of coffee on your desk because you’ll spill it on your favorite pair of Vans slip-ons and ruin them. It happened to me. 

The previously mentioned HyperX Orbit headset goes hard on head tracking, and it’s cool during playtime. Still, it would sometimes kick in when I was just casually listening to music or even talking on video chats, which was distracting. However, if you want that full-fledged immersion, the Penrose might not be your best bet. 

Comfort and comms

Audeze Penrose X gaming headset
There’s plenty of padding. Stan Horacczek

Like many other high-end gaming headsets, the Penrose feels like strapping a pleather sofa to your head. The headset weighs more than 11 ounces, and thick padding covers almost every surface that could touch your head. 

The ear cups are comfortable, but I actually found them a touch small. I had to maneuver them a little to get my entire ear encased in the cup instead of just plopping them on my head. Once they’re in position, the memory foam pads keep them plenty comfortable. 

The closed-back design helps with sound, but it also makes the Penrose run a little warm after a long bout of wearing it. The clamping force isn’t excessive, though, and the massive pad across the top of the head prevented it from digging into my scalp, which is a plus. 

Ultimately, the Audeze Penrose X is a comfortable gaming headset, but you’re not going to forget you’re wearing it. And neither will anyone watching you on-stream since it’s a fairly large chunk of gear.

Built-in microphone

Like other high-end gaming headsets, the Audeze Penrose X includes a detachable “Blonde Ambition”-era Madonna-style headset mic that curls out from the left earcup and sits in front of your mouth. Audeze calls it “broadcast quality,” which seems a little outdated when so many streamers and even frequent Zoom meeting attendees have upgraded to dedicated PC microphones. 

Overall, I found the Penrose mic solid but not mind-blowing. No one in my game squads or Zoom calls had any issue at all with the audio. At one point, I let my son try it with his Xbox, and he’s the kind of gamer that yells when things don’t go his way. In that situation, I was actually impressed that the mic could handle his loud exclamations without cracking up. I’d still prefer he learn not to yell while gaming, but at least he won’t blow out everyone’s eardrums with distortion this way. 

So, who should buy the Audeze Penrose X?

Even with all these words behind us, I could still say positive things about the Audeze Penrose X gaming headset. The 13-hour battery life is solid and reliable. Plus, it has an extra-long USB-C charging cable to keep it plugged in as you game, even if you’re out of juice. 

For $299, there are many excellent options in direct competition. If you’re specifically looking for an Xbox Series X headset, Microsoft’s first-party offering offers surprisingly excellent performance for just $99. It doesn’t compete with the Penrose on power and overall quality, but that’s a big price difference. 

While I haven’t tried the $400 Mobius, I have used comparable headsets that offer deep spatial audio features. Frankly, I still like the stereo setup better, but I’m also a hybrid user. If you spend your nights playing games and your days discussing various Excel spreadsheets, I think the Audeze Penrose X is a better option in wireless gaming headphones. Just make sure to plug the transmitter into the back of your computer so you don’t almost kick it and break it. I learned that the hard way as well. 

The post Audeze Penrose X wireless gaming headset review: Planar-magnetic power appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> 7 tips to make the most of your gaming with Steam Deck https://www.popsci.com/diy/steam-deck-tips/ Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:03:57 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=492871
person playing a game on a steam deck device
Take your gaming everywhere you go. Edgar Almeida / Unsplash

Become a Steam Deck expert with this guide.

The post 7 tips to make the most of your gaming with Steam Deck appeared first on Popular Science.

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person playing a game on a steam deck device
Take your gaming everywhere you go. Edgar Almeida / Unsplash

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The Valve Steam Deck takes the portable console concept that the Nintendo Switch has made familiar and ups the stakes. This new gadget lets you carry top-tier PC games with you anywhere, and it can be yours starting at $399.

If you took advantage of the holiday sales and invested in one of these gaming consoles, you should know how to get the best out of your hardware, so you can game smarter.

Customize your Steam Deck’s game controls

If you don’t like how the Steam Deck buttons are mapped in your favorite games, you can change them. The console gives you plenty of flexibility when it comes to deciding which buttons do what.

[Related: How to stream your PC games to all your screens]

Select a game from your library and instead of tapping Play on its listing page, tap the button showing a gamepad icon on the right. On the next screen, you’ll see the controller layout, which you can tweak by selecting Edit Layout.

Tap the cog icons on the right and you’ll be able to change the action associated with each button, and joystick or touchpad move. Back on the previous screen, tap the cog next to Edit Layout to save your changes as a preset you can load up whenever you want.

Make the Steam Deck gentler on your eyes

The Steam Deck comes with a built-in night mode designed to ease the strain on your eyes late at night and in dark environments. It reduces the amount of blue light emitted by the display, creating a warmer tinge.

You can enable night mode by pressing the Steam button, then choosing Settings and Display. You’ll see that you can schedule night mode for certain times, or turn it on right away (it’ll stay on until morning). There’s also a slider underneath that lets you change the intensity of the tint.

If you want, you can also keep your screen at a fixed brightness, whether or not night mode is on. On the same screen, you can dim the display using the brightness slider, and turn off the Enable Adaptive Brightness feature so that the Steam Deck doesn’t alter it.

Get a better experience by limiting frames per second and resolution

If you’re a PC gamer, you might be familiar with the idea of dialing down graphics settings (like resolution and visual fidelity) in order to get a smoother experience. The Steam Deck lets you perform a similar sort of balancing act.

Press the three-dot button to the right of the screen and scroll down to the battery section of the menu to find the framerate slider. You can cap the frames per second at 15, 30, or 60, or leave it uncapped. Don’t be surprised by the location of these settings—lowering the framerate can improve battery life as well as make games run more reliably.

You can also make performance smoother by reducing the resolution a game runs at. With a game highlighted in your library, press the menu button (top right, the three horizontal lines), then choose Properties and General to find the resolution setting.

Stream games to your Steam Deck

As powerful as the Steam Deck is for a portable console, it can’t compete with an actual gaming PC. Some games won’t run as well on your Steam Deck, but you also have the option to stream Steam games from a PC.

You can do this through the Remote Play service over a local Wi-Fi network, which you can also use to stream games from one computer to another, or play multiplayer games with other people. As an added bonus, your Steam Deck should stay cooler than it does while playing games locally, and you’ll get more time between battery charges, too.

As long as your PC and your Steam Deck are on the same Wi-Fi network and connected to the same Steam account, via the downward arrow next to the Play or Install button on individual game pages, you should find the option to stream them as well.

Get a closer look at games on your Steam Deck

The Steam Deck’s display is clearly smaller than any desktop monitor or laptop display, which might make gaming more difficult. If you find yourself struggling to see what’s on screen, there is an integrated magnifier function you can use.

To enable it, hold down the Steam button and the L1 button, which is on the top-left shoulder of the console as you look at it. You can then use the right joystick to move the magnifier around the screen. Let go of the joystick and the two buttons, and the display interface returns to normal.

Some titles are better than others when it comes to optimizing their interfaces on the Steam Deck, but it’s a helpful tool in situations with little fast-paced action.

Hook up some peripherals to your Steam Deck

The Steam Deck is blessed with a plethora of buttons, but for some games, you might want the feel of a classic gamepad or the very precise control only a mouse and keyboard can provide. The good news is that you can easily hook up these peripherals to the console.

When it comes to gamepads (like PlayStation or Xbox controllers, for instance), you can plug them into the Steam Deck’s USB-C port and the device should instantly recognize them. You can also connect them wirelessly over Bluetooth: Press the Steam button, then choose Settings and Bluetooth to make the connection.

It’s the same with a mouse and keyboard. You can use the USB-C port (via a USB-C hub if you want to connect both peripherals at the same time), or you can go through the Bluetooth menu to pair these input devices wirelessly.

Know the shortcuts on your Steam Deck console

Keyboard shortcuts can make a huge difference to your productivity on Windows and macOS, and the same goes for the Steam Deck. These button shortcuts let you control your gadget just as you would a PC or game console.

[Related: Best PC games that demand a mouse and keyboard]

For example, press and hold the Steam button to use the Right thumbstick or the Right touchpad as a mouse. With the latter, click on the touchpad for a mouse click.

Press and hold the Steam button and then tap D-pad right to simulate an Enter key, D-pad down to simulate a Tab key, or D-pad left to simulate an Escape key. To see a full list of shortcuts, press and hold the Steam button.

The post 7 tips to make the most of your gaming with Steam Deck appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> Logitech’s G Cloud handheld gaming device is $50 off for Cyber Monday https://www.popsci.com/technology/logitech-g-cloud-deal-cyber-monday-2022/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=491893
Logitech G Cloud
Logitech's G Cloud gaming handheld is $50 off for Black Friday. Logitech

This is the handheld's lowest price ever.

The post Logitech’s G Cloud handheld gaming device is $50 off for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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Logitech G Cloud
Logitech's G Cloud gaming handheld is $50 off for Black Friday. Logitech

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The G Cloud is Logitech’s first-ever dedicated portable gaming system, and the cloud-enabled device is on sale for the first time ever for Cyber Monday. The $50 discount brings the G Cloud down to $299, which is in line with the Nintendo Switch. Handheld gaming has had a renaissance lately, and the G Cloud is one of the most interesting consoles out there. So it’s a great time to take advantage of this Logitech G Cloud deal for Cyber Monday 2022.

Logitech G Cloud, $299 (Was $349)

The G Cloud runs Android, and as its name suggests, its primary purpose is playing games from streaming services like NVIDIA’s GeForce Now, Xbox Remote Play, and PlayStation Remote Play. This works very well in our tests but requires a fast, constant connection to the internet to work. You can play Android games offline, but the G Cloud is meant to be an internet-connected device. Under the right circumstances, games run beautifully and look gorgeous on the device’s 7-inch 1080p display. The G Cloud has enough processing power and memory to quickly load apps, and switch between them with ease.

A $50 discount may not seem like very much, but Logitech only released the G Cloud a couple of months ago, so any discount is pretty surprising. If you’re into handheld gaming and always play games in a place with a strong WiFi network, the Logitech G Cloud deal for Cyber Monday 2022 is one of the best gaming discounts we’ve seen.

More Logitech deals

More of the best Cyber Monday sales and Black Friday deals still available

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]]> Best Buy Black Friday deals: TVs, electronics, appliances, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-buy-black-friday-deals-2022/ Thu, 24 Nov 2022 23:35:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=491183
Best Buy Black Friday deals 2022
Save on pretty much everything you want this Black Friday at Best Buy. Stan Horaczek

Save on TVs, computers, Apple products, wearables, and just about everything else during Best Buy Black Friday.

The post Best Buy Black Friday deals: TVs, electronics, appliances, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Buy Black Friday deals 2022
Save on pretty much everything you want this Black Friday at Best Buy. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You made it through another Thanksgiving meal. Now, it’s time to let the turkey digest while you take advantage of some killer deals on just about everything from the comfort of your own couch. Best Buy has been rolling out its Black Friday deals for a while now and we’ve been keeping track of the best discounts on the most desirable products. The variety is huge, and we’ve broken it down into categories to make it easier to peruse.

Remember, Black Friday is now in full effect, so the best deals will go quickly. If you see something you want, jump on it now and don’t hesitate. Black Friday sales aren’t a time to get stuck with the leftovers.

LG – 48″ Class A2 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $569 (was $1,299)

I wanted to single out this particular deal because it’s ridiculous. An OLED at any size just a few years ago would set you back well over $1,000. This panel is more than half off, but it offers the incredible picture quality that comes from OLED, as well as HDMI 2.1 ports to connect your fancy next-gen. gaming consoles. This isn’t the biggest TV, but this is a fantastic deal.

TVs

MacBooks

Desktop computers and monitors

Headphones & earbuds

Laptops

Household

Soundbars & speakers

Gaming

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]]> The Xbox Series S is $50 off if you shop this early Black Friday deal https://www.popsci.com/gear/xbox-series-s-early-black-friday-deal/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=490473
Xbox Series S
Microsoft's latest console is down to its lowest price ever for Black Friday. Microsoft

This may be your last chance to get Microsoft's console at this price, but act fast!

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Xbox Series S
Microsoft's latest console is down to its lowest price ever for Black Friday. Microsoft

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Microsoft has warned that it’ll raise the price of its latest consoles in 2023 as a result of inflation, which makes this rare discount on the Xbox Series S especially significant.

Xbox Series S

Microsoft

SEE IT

The console can play all the latest cutting-edge games like Elden Ring or Halo Infinite at up to 1440p, which is better than HD but not quite 4K. It also supports features like HDR (high dynamic range) for better color accuracy. Critically, the Series S lacks a disk drive, which means you’ll have to download all of your games from the Xbox digital marketplace, and won’t be able to play physical copies of Xbox 360 and Xbox One games that are backward-compatible. The Xbox Series S comes with 512GB of internal storage, but you can connect an external hard drive or upgrade module if you need more room. The Xbox Series S can also be used to stream TV shows and movies from popular services like Netflix or Hulu.

Microsoft’s early Black Friday deal brings the Xbox Series S down to $249, which is the price of Nintendo’s popular-but-not-nearly-as-powerful Switch. If you’ve been planning on a gaming console upgrade, or want to pick up a highly sought-after holiday gift for the gamer in your life, don’t miss this opportunity. We’ve seen the Series S sell out at a couple of retailers, so right now Best Buy is your best choice. And, once you’ve got the console in your cart, check out these related deals:

The best Xbox Series X game deals

The best Xbox Series S accessories

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]]> Hacker may have just leaked early ‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ footage https://www.popsci.com/technology/grand-theft-auto-6-leak/ Mon, 19 Sep 2022 16:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=470848
Person from behind wearing headphones.
The hacker also claimed on GTA Forums they are attempting to extort Rockstar in exchange for the remaining unreleased data. Stack Commerce

There are some serious similarities between Rockstar Games' headache and the one experienced by Uber last week.

The post Hacker may have just leaked early ‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ footage appeared first on Popular Science.

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Person from behind wearing headphones.
The hacker also claimed on GTA Forums they are attempting to extort Rockstar in exchange for the remaining unreleased data. Stack Commerce

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Rockstar Games, makers of the massively popular Grand Theft Auto video game series, confirmed this morning it suffered a major data breach over the weekend—and there are early indications a recently notorious hacker might be responsible. Just before 3:30 a.m. yesterday, over 90 video files showcasing early alpha design footage from the much anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 were posted to the fan site, GTA Forums, from the username “teapotuberhacker.” The same user posted a tease for additional releases of “GTA 5 and 6 source code and assets, [and the] GTA 6 testing build.” It’s already considered to be one of the largest leaks in video game history.

[Related: Teaching machines to drive with ‘Grand Theft Auto.’]

Aside from the pseudonym’s reference, multiple outlets note there are already some similarities between this jaw-dropping hack and last week’s debacle at Uber. A purportedly 18-year-old teenager pulled one of the oldest tricks in the book to gain access to essentially all of the ridesharing company’s data stores and Slack channels just days ago.

“We recently suffered a network intrusion in which an unauthorized third party illegally accessed and downloaded confidential information from our systems, including early development footage for the next Grand Theft Auto [sic],” Rockstar Games posted to Twitter this morning. “At this time, we do not anticipate any disruption to our live game services nor any long-term effect on the development of our ongoing projects.”

As Forbes and elsewhere note, “teapotuberhacker” references gaining access to Rockstar’s Slack server, as well as its team-working Confluence wiki, recalling the same methods used by Uber’s online intruder. The hacker also claimed on GTA Forums they are attempting to extort Rockstar in exchange for the remaining unreleased data, including GTA 6‘s source code. Still, the theory that the same young hacker is behind both stunts is currently unconfirmed.

PopSci will continue to monitor the ongoing TeaPots hacker saga, and update accordingly.

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]]> Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review: ANC rules everything around me https://www.popsci.com/gear/sony-inzone-h9-review/ Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=466764
Sony Inzone H9 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
One of Sony's first PC-focused gaming headset, the Inzone H9 offers active noise-canceling and other high-end features. Mike Epstein

Sony's first flagship PC gaming headset has lots of great tech, but flawed fundamentals.

The post Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review: ANC rules everything around me appeared first on Popular Science.

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Sony Inzone H9 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
One of Sony's first PC-focused gaming headset, the Inzone H9 offers active noise-canceling and other high-end features. Mike Epstein

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Earlier this year, Sony unveiled a new PC gaming sub-brand called Inzone, with a line of “H”-series gaming headsets and “M”-series gaming monitors. Unlike PlayStation gear, which always revolves around the company’s beloved consoles, the Inzone gear also performs for PC gamers and has features that are only accessible through a Windows configuration app. The Sony Inzone H9, the most expensive of three headsets in the line, is a wireless model awash with high-end features, including active noise-canceling (ANC) and fast-charging, which are criminally underused in gaming headsets. Despite its strong specs and flash, it falters on some gaming headset fundamentals, which are hard to ignore in a high-end gaming headset.

Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headsets

Mike Epstein

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“In” the “zone”

Ironically, the Sony Inzone H9 looks like a PlayStation 5 gaming headset. The stark combination of white matte plastic, accented with black plastic and leatherette-covered padding mirrors the contrast-heavy design language of the latest Sony console. Whether you use them with a gaming PC or a PS5, though, the H9 is certainly style-forward, especially with its elegantly implemented ring-shaped indicator lights. It isn’t that far from typical gaming headset design, but distinctive enough that you’d never mistake it for something else.

Weighing 11.57 ounces, it’s on the heavy side compared to other headsets, but not so much that you really feel the weight over time. With only the lightest amount of clamping force, it may wiggle a bit if you shake your head but moves far less than you’d expect in regular use.

The large, foam-padded ear cups give your ears plenty of room to breathe. In the closed-back cans, 40mm Neodymium drivers are par for the gaming headset course. Between uses, the earcups rotate to lay flat on your chest or a table, which is a common, but always-welcome flourish.

Around the earcups, the H9 offers a robust but strangely implemented set of onboard controls. On the left cup, you have a volume roller, noise-canceling/ambient mode button, and a USB-C port for charging. On the right, you get a dual-rocker for adjusting game/chat audio balance, a Bluetooth pairing button, and a power button. The range of controls is great but their positioning is not, particularly on the right earcup. The power button is near the front of the right earcup, so turning the headset on and off always feels awkward. Likewise, I found myself running my finger up and down the headset looking for the Bluetooth button when I needed it. There are a lot of controls, so some buttons can’t be perfectly placed, but the design doesn’t prioritize the most frequently used buttons, which is a problem.

Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review
Permanently attached “flip-to-talk” microphones aren’t as common as they used to be, but it comes in handy on the H9. Mike Epstein

The H9 features a permanently affixed, flip-to-talk boom mic, which feels like a relic from a bygone age. At this point, most headsets feature detachable wire boom mics, which sacrifice the flip-up-to-mute feature for a more flexible mic that you can almost always position perfectly over your lips. The H9’s mic, by contrast, is easy to position well, but hard to get just right.

Wireless connectivity and battery life

To ensure a stable connection with minimal lag, the Sony Inzone H9 connects via a 2.4GHz USB wireless dongle. It also can connect via Bluetooth 5.0, supporting both SBC and AAC codecs so you can pair it with an Android or Apple phone. Best of all, you can connect to two devices at once, and get sound from a phone and a PC or console at the same time. That flexibility can be very helpful in some Discord setups and other niche situations. (Me? Sometimes I like to put a podcast on while I’m playing.) You have to select on the dongle whether you’re plugging into a PS5 or a PC, but doing so allows it to adjust system-level controls like game/chat balance.

Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset
The power button on the H9 is poorly placed. Mike Epstein

For an ANC headset, the H9 gets stellar battery life. According to Sony, it lasts up to 32 hours with ANC off. I found it lasted more than 25 hours on a single charge with ANC on most of the time, which is well above average. The H9 also offers the rare benefit of quick-charging support: Plugged in via USB-C, you can top it off with an hour’s worth of juice in 10 minutes. That’s very helpful if you find yourself ready to play, only to find the headset’s out of power.

Noise-canceling, an underrated headset feature

The signature feature of the Sony Inzone H9 is its active noise cancellation. Two microphones analyze incoming noise while the headset generates an inverted wave that cancels it out. You find ANC all the time in over-ear headphones and earbuds, which are made for wearing out in the world, but it is still not all that common in gaming headsets, which people use at home most of the time. It’s also a cost-cutting measure for a very budget-conscious product sub-genre of audio gear: ANC requires additional components and software, so they are inherently more expensive.

Here’s the thing, though: ANC is an incredible asset in a gaming headset. The primary goal of game audio is to immerse you in the imaginary world on-screen, and ANC minimizes exterior distractions that may prevent it from doing that.  It can block out the low hum of an air conditioner as an orchestral score swells, or keep the loud banging from your neighbor’s home renovations from momentarily distracting you right when an enemy is about to attack you from behind. It makes sense that ANC is a luxury feature, but it is surprising that you don’t see it more in the $300-$500 “audiophile-grade” tier of headsets.

Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review
The H9 has very roomy ear cups. Mike Epstein

If you’ve ever used any of Sony’s high-end headphones or earbuds, it shouldn’t surprise you that the H9 offers excellent noise cancellation. It drowns out more exterior noises and minimizes even loud sirens and construction work into a low drone. It also has advanced features like an ambient sound mode that actually amplifies outside noise for when you want to momentarily stop and talk to someone in the real world mid-session. It isn’t as quite as all-encompassing as some of Sony’s other ANC-enabled gear; It blocks out most of the noise from my air conditioner, for example, but there’s a high, tinny part of it that sneaks through. Still, it goes a long way when you really want to get lost in a game.

The H9’s ANC has an Achilles heel, though. While the listening experience is well-guarded by noise cancellation, the microphone lets plenty of ambient noise through. From the clack of my keyboard to a louder version of that air conditioner whine, the audio I put out was much messier than what was coming in.

How does it sound?

Sony Inzone H9 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
The Sony Inzone H9, in profile. Mike Epstein

The Sony Inzone H9 offers decent, but not excellent sound quality. You’re going to hear all the little nooks and crannies in games with high-precision sound design. You can tell the difference between how guns sound in Call of Duty: Vanguard, and the echoey croak of a zombie-like Clicker in The Last of Us: Part 1. There’s very little track separation, though, so sometimes sounds may get muddled together. You also find mid- and high-end sounds leave a momentary lingering fuzz. In the wider world of audio, especially among gaming headsets, this is the difference between a great headset and an incredible one, but the H9’s high price demands you hold it to a higher standard than an entry-level headset like the PlayStation Pulse.

It does, however, offer very strong spatial audio. In competitive multiplayer games, you can clearly detect the direction and distance of nearby enemies or allies purely by the sound of their footsteps and attacks. Using the Inzone Hub configuration app and the Sony 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer app, you can create a personalized spatial audio profile specifically for your ears. The setup, which involves taking pictures of your ears, is long and fairly janky, but it results in a dynamic virtual surround sound that feels perfectly tuned for games, without disrupting how your game sounds.

It’s worth noting that the Inzone spatial audio is one of the features designed specifically for PC users, as it will use the standard (and high-quality) Tempest spatial audio when playing on PS5.

What if I only want it for my PS5?

Since it’s an Inzone headset, not a PlayStation one, there are a few things that you can only use when pairing the H9 with the PC. For PlayStation fans, this may sound annoying, but it’s standard fare for players who have used a headset on PC and PS4 or PS5 before. Using the Inzone Hub PC app gives you extra customization in the form of EQ presets and custom profiles. Dig deep enough and you’ll find more checkboxes for nitty gritty features like customizing the distance and positioning of virtual surround sound speakers, but they’re more for hardcore audio enthusiasts than typical players. Ultimately 90% of what’s great about the H9 (and most of what’s not) applies whether you play on PC or console.

So, who should buy the Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset?

Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset lay flat
Ear cups that twist to lay flat are a common, but welcome feature in a headset. Mike Epstein

In a vacuum, the Sony Inzone H9 is a stellar gaming headset. It looks good, offers great surround sound, fits comfortably, and offers active noise-canceling. View it through the lens of its hefty $300 price tag, though, and its flaws become harder to ignore. We can’t begrudge Sony the price—like we said, ANC is a feature that raises costs—but there are other models, such as SteelSeries’ Arctis Nova Pro, that offer a more well-rounded experience for a similar price. It’s an excellent start for a new sub-brand, but Sony will need to work out the kinks if it wants its wireless gaming headsets to command the same universal acclaim as its ANC headphones.

The post Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review: ANC rules everything around me appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> Acer Predator XB3 gaming monitor review: Not quite an apex Predator https://www.popsci.com/gear/acer-predator-xb3-gaming-monitor-review/ Sat, 13 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=462137
Acer Predator XB3 Review
The Predator XB3 makes games look incredible, but costs a pretty penny. Harry Rabinowitz

Acer’s Predator XB3 offers incredible gaming and productivity performance, but is it worth the sky-high price tag?

The post Acer Predator XB3 gaming monitor review: Not quite an apex Predator appeared first on Popular Science.

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Acer Predator XB3 Review
The Predator XB3 makes games look incredible, but costs a pretty penny. Harry Rabinowitz

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

The Acer Predator XB323QK NVbmiiphuzx—XB3, for short—tries to do it all. Its beautiful, fast 4K screen is an excellent match for PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its robust connectivity and features offer plenty of support for all kinds of PC users. Solid ergonomics, built-in speakers, and HDR all go above and beyond what we would call “basic” gaming monitor utility. Trying to be everything for everyone, though, comes at a high cost. At $1,200, the XB3 prices itself out of consideration for most people—but not all people. For the right kind of player, one who both wants exceptional-looking games and professional-caliber color, the Predator XB3 may be worth the expense. Let’s take a closer look.

Acer Predator XB3 Review

Harry Rabinowitz

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What is the Acer Predator XB3?

Even among Acer’s premium Predator line, which includes most of Acer’s best monitors, the XB3 is expensive. Two of our favorite 4K gaming monitors, the Gigabyte M32U and Asus Swift PG32UQ, offer very similar features for less than $1,000, so the XB3’s price invites some skepticism. It is an impressive display, though, with the color reproduction to serve as a highly accurate monitor for photography and design work.

Among Acer’s premium Predator brand, the XB3 offers excellent image quality, only outmatched by the massive 37-inch X38 and 43-inch CG7. The XB3 features a 31.5-inch IPS display running at 4K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and a DisplayHDR 400 rating. A 32-inch, 4K gaming monitor running 144Hz is among the most luxurious core specs you can get, typically costing upwards of $700 (and often more when paired with unique innovations).

Outside of the screen, the XB3 features a bevy of premium touches. The chassis is largely metal, with ample ergonomic adjustability, a sturdy build, and slim bezels. Built-in are two four-watt speakers that serve as a great backup when headset fatigue starts to set in. On the rear, the XB3 features ample connectivity, including the latest HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 ports. HDMI 2.1 is especially useful for console gamers seeking peak performance from their PS5 or Xbox Series X.

Setting up the Acer Predator XB3

Fully assembled, the XB3 weighs a hefty 29.7 pounds. That weight makes it incredibly sturdy when adjusting ergonomics but difficult to physically move around.

It’s important to know what you’re getting into buying a monitor this size. On my 47 x 30 inch desk, the screen felt a little too close to my face, no matter where I placed the monitor. The stand places the screen in front of the stand, so you need a very deep desk to position it well. Anyone with a larger desk shouldn’t have an issue, but tighter setups like mine are a bit tricky to perfect.

Aside from two USB-A ports on the left-hand side, the XB3 features a wall of downward-facing ports along the back of the display, including HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, USB-B, USB-A, and 3.5mm audio. Downward-facing ports are a double-edged sword: They reduce strain on your cables but are a pain to switch in and out. It’s realistically worth it for the primary video cables—HDMI and DisplayPort—but it can frustrate with ports used for connecting other devices, like USB-A and USB-C.

Acer Predator XB3 Review
The Acer Predator XB3’s downward-facing rear ports. Harry Rabinowitz

Like most monitors, the onboard controls also leave something to be desired. You use a row of five square, downward-facing buttons on the right-hand side of the screen to navigate and make system-level display adjustments. The menus are intuitive, but controlling them isn’t, especially compared to monitors like Acer’s Predator X34 and X35, which feature a four-directional joystick.

Using the Acer Predator XB3

The Predator XB3 is a perfectly capable everyday monitor but it didn’t initially “wow” me with its performance. Digging into the settings, I discovered the XB3’s eight different picture modes: Standard, Eco, Graphics, HDR, Action, Racing, Sports, and User. Out of the box, Eco is the default, which turns off the XB3’s most impressive features—things like HDR, Super Sharpness, visual response boost (VRB), and Overdrive.

Acer Predator XB3 Review
The Acer Predator XB3 features eight built-in picture settings. HDR offered the best color performance. Harry Rabinowitz

Out of all the preset picture modes, I found that HDR offers the best picture. If you really want to fine-tune the monitor to your liking, User mode lets you fully customize each and every setting.

The XB3 has a Vesa DisplayHDR 400 rating that makes everyday apps pop. Outside of everyday tasks, HDR400 isn’t really enough to fully display high-dynamic range effects in video games. Still, when I showed the XB3 to my friends and family who were used to 1080p and 1440p monitors, they were blown away watching 4K HDR TV shows and YouTube videos.

The Acer Predator XB3 as a gaming monitor

You don’t buy the Predator XB3 to work on spreadsheets, though. This is a gaming monitor, and you’ll only see what makes its full potential when playing games.

I tested a wide variety of PC games over the XB3’s HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 connections. Few monitors offer the newest HDMI 2.1 connectivity—being able to play games in 4K at 144Hz over HDMI, rather than DisplayPort, was a new experience for me. G-Sync, paired with my Nvidia RTX 3070, ensured buttery smooth performance in graphically intense titles like Elden Ring, which felt massive on the XB3’s 31.5-inch screen, with far-off vistas and gruesome monsters rendered in stunning detail. Frenetic action games like Hades looked seamless and felt smooth.

Frankly, the XB3 enables a higher frame rate and resolution than most gaming PCs can handle. Many AAA games, such as Elden Ring and Red Dead Redemption II, are capped at 60 frames per second in 4K, and even maintaining that resolution and frame rate requires a lot of horsepower. My system could hit 144Hz in 4K in some well-optimized first-person shooters like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and indies like Dead Cells that were easier on my graphics card. When I could manage it, though, playing games in 4K at 144Hz felt fantastic. Fast-moving objects and small details were rendered with incredible fidelity, so much so that I noticed new details in games I was already familiar with. 

Acer Predator XB3 Review
It takes a lot of GPU power to play games in 4K at 144Hz. My PC could only handle it with a few less-demanding games like Hades. Harry Rabinowitz

Although I only tested the XB3 with a PC, it’s also particularly well-suited for console gaming. With HDMI 2.1, it’s capable of playing games from a PS5 or Xbox Series X in 4K at 144Hz. Many monitors only offer HDMI 2.0, so they can only output one or the other from a console. The large 31.5-inch screen and built-in speakers allow for a self-contained TV-esque experience, as well.

The Acer Predator XB3 as a creative monitor

My daily monitor usage covers a wide variety of tasks, including light creative work in Adobe. The XB3 is best suited for gaming but also offered surprisingly great color reproduction for creative workflows. Among gaming monitors, the XB3 offers very bold color reproduction. It has a color accuracy of Delta E<1, with a base DCI-P3 color gamut of 90 percent and sRGB color gamut at 135 percent. That’s in line with similar premium gaming displays like the Asus Swift PG32UQ and Gigabyte M32U, as well as many top monitors for graphic design. Superior color accuracy isn’t a guarantee among top gaming monitors and, candidly, it often isn’t necessary when you’re playing games for fun. If you need professional color, though, the XB3 is mostly up to the task.

So, who should buy the Acer Predator XB3?

The Acer Predator XB3 is an incredible 4K 144Hz gaming monitor that can do a lot of things. It renders games in amazing detail, with fast action captured effortlessly thanks to a high refresh rate and G-Sync compatibility. It’s also well-rounded, bringing above-average color accuracy and pixel density to creative production, particularly for a monitor not designed to put color reproduction first.

Frankly, Its main drawback is its price. Since only the most powerful gaming rigs will be able to hit its maximum resolution and frame rate, the Acer Predator XB3’s $1,199.99 price may be a bitter pill to swallow, even for players with high-end systems. With options like the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQ or Samsung Odyssey G70A in the mix, it is an exceptional display that will only make sense for a very select group of creatives who love games.

The post Acer Predator XB3 gaming monitor review: Not quite an apex Predator appeared first on Popular Science.

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]]> Best Nintendo Switch controllers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-nintendo-switch-controllers/ Mon, 22 Nov 2021 22:26:29 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=396075
These are our picks for the best Nintendo Switch controllers on Amazon.
Natasha Roy

The Nintendo Switch brings the joy but not necessarily because of the built-in Joy-Con controllers, so here are options to get your moves tighter and scores higher.

The post Best Nintendo Switch controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

]]>
These are our picks for the best Nintendo Switch controllers on Amazon.
Natasha Roy

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best Nintendo Switch pro-style controller There’s no better general option for an extra controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller. Extremely comfortable, responsive, and reliable, it’s a significant upgrade for nearly any genre of game. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
SEE IT

There’s no better general option for an extra controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller.

Best third-party controller for Switch A slightly scaled-down clone of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller loses a few features while offering a few new ones for a slight discount, resulting in a very solid overall value. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
SEE IT

 The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller loses a few features while offering a few new ones for a slight discount, resulting in a very solid overall value.
Best arcade stick for Switch A joy to look at and a joy to use, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick captures the stand-up cabinet feel with a tight joystick and nice, springy buttons in a weighty-but-not-heavy block that also happens to feature some really eye-catching aesthetics. 8BitDo Arcade Stick
SEE IT

The 8BitDo Arcade Stick captures the stand-up cabinet feel with a tight joystick and nice, springy buttons in a weighty-but-not-heavy block.

The Nintendo Switch is a multi-use marvel that has taken over the gaming world. Whether you prefer to sync it to the big screen or use it for handheld gaming on the go, it offers a user-friendly and incredibly fun way to play. From strategy-heavy games like “Fire Emblem” to family-friendly “Animal Crossing”, the Switch is equipped for a wide variety of games to suit different interests and ages. And while those picks might not require much precision control, games like “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate,” “Fortnite,” or “Pokemon Unite,” require more dexterity and finesse. We’ve rounded up the best controllers that will suit your gaming needs—whether you’re couch-bound or handheld, analog stick or d-pad, we’ve got you covered with our list of Nintendo Switch controllers.

How we selected the best Nintendo Switch controllers

We combined hands-on research with insights gathered from fellow gamers on staff and around the international community to deliver a list you can trust. Every one of these Nintendo Switch controllers come highly recommended from multiple playtesters or outlets and every one has spent some amount of time in my hot little hands to see if it passes the thumbs stress test.

Why aren’t my Joy-Cons enough?

The standard Joy-Cons that come packaged with the Nintendo Switch are meant to slot into the sides of the Switch screen for split use when in handheld mode. For many games, this set-up is relatively comfortable and ergonomic. However, as a separated controller, either individually or docked together in the included Switch grip, the Joy-Cons really can’t rise above “fine.” The buttons are very small and the directional pad (d-pad) especially does not respond particularly well. Additionally, the analog sticks on the Joy-Con have a tendency to develop a problem known as “drift.” Drift happens to almost any analog control stick and it is an issue wherein the “neutral” position of the stick is either no longer neutral because of mechanical wear and tear or no longer read as neutral because of digital issues within the circuitry of the controller. Whichever happens to be the case with Joy-Cons, drift seems to occur more often than with competitors’ first-party controllers (DualShock/DualSense for the Playstation and the Xbox Wireless Controller). The best way to avoid drift developing in Joy-Cons is to use them as infrequently as possible, meaning that a secondary controller is preferable when the Switch is docked and connected to your TV both for superior control, and to preserve the Joy-Cons for use in handheld mode.

What are my options when it comes to extra Nintendo Switch controllers?

There are four main types of secondary Nintendo Switch controllers. The first is “pro-style” controllers. These controllers are similar in design to the PlayStation and Xbox controllers that have become the standard form factor over the past 10 years. Even PC gamepads tend to mimic many of the design elements of these two controllers and Nintendo Switch pro-style controllers carry on that tradition. Next are retro controllers, whose form factors recall consoles of the past. You can get Nintendo Switch controllers that mimic Nintendo and Sega controllers from the 8-bit era (Nintendo Entertainment System) all the way to the 128-bit era (Nintendo GameCube). These controllers are adjusted to have all the buttons features on a set of Joy-Cons, but have dimensions and color combinations that harken back to gaming days past. Third are arcade sticks, which feature a joystick instead of a directional pad or analog thumbstick and all the buttons on the face of a large rectangular base. These controllers look like the control set-ups for arcade games and are sometimes referred to as a “fight stick” because of their prevalence in use among high-level non-“Smash Bros.” fighting game players (think back to putting your quarters on “Street Fighter” to call next). Lastly, you have controller set-ups, grips, or docks that are meant to enhance or replace the Joy-Cons while the Switch is in handheld mode. These Nintendo Switch controllers may offer wider grip bases or different-style button layouts that may appeal to many users.

Are all these controllers compatible with the Switch Lite?

The Nintendo Switch Lite, which costs less than the standard Switch and has controllers bonded to its screen (plus no TV hookup capabilities), is compatible with any Nintendo Switch Wireless controller without issue. Simply pair the controller with the Switch Lite the same way you would with the Switch. In fact, because the Switch Lite does not feature rumble compatibility with its built-in controllers, pairing Joy-Cons or another wireless rumble-compatible controller with it is the only way to initiate this feature. Wired controllers are a different beast, however. While there are no Nintendo-created wired controllers for the Switch Lite, there is an officially licensed adapter by the controller and accessory company Hori that not only allows the use of wired Switch controllers with the Switch Lite but also serves as a stand to tilt the screen up towards the player.

Which Switch controller is right for me?

While there are a few Nintendo Switch controllers that stand above the rest in terms of quality, the most important consideration before you buy an extra controller for your Switch is your own play tendencies. If you play in handheld mode almost all the time, you may simply want to invest in some additional Joy-Cons. If you want to play certain games, there are certain styles of controller that are popular with those games, like GameCube-style controllers with “Super Smash Bros.” Do you absolutely need wireless? Wired controllers tend to be a little cheaper, so if your Switch dock is quite close to where you usually sit to play, you may want to go with a wired option. Assess your own situation first, then consult the experts.

The Best Nintendo Switch controllers Reviews & Recommendations

All of the below options serve their functions expertly, have a solid track record of quality for both the controller and the company, and feel pretty great in our tester’s hands. As our picks for the best Nintendo Switch controllers, consider them all “highly recommended.”

Best Nintendo Switch pro-style controller: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

There’s no better general option for an extra controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller. Extremely comfortable, responsive, and reliable, it’s a significant upgrade for nearly any genre of game.

Nintendo

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Every feature you want in an ergonomic form factor with the reliability and performance that can only be guaranteed by a first-party product, Nintendo’s premium wireless controller gets everything right, from the weight to the springiness of the shoulder buttons. A joy to use.

Specs:

  • Wireless
  • Motion Controls
  • Rumble Compatibility
  • Amiibo Reader
  • Internal battery charges with USB-C to USB-A cable included
Pros:Cons:
  • Great layout
  • More expensive than third-party controllers
  • Responsive directional pad
  • Very few color choices
  • Every needed feature included

    • When it comes to a pro-style controller, you want two things: feel and performance. Nintendo’s Switch Pro Controller delivers both. Extremely well-fitted to most adult hands, the Pro Controller has just the right weight, comfortable and responsive buttons and sticks, and plenty of bells and whistles. Want to use motion controls like you could with the Joy-Cons? Check. Want to scan the chips in your Amiibo figures, unlocking bonuses in some of your games? Check. Want the buzzes and “bzzts” that come from rumble feedback? Check. The battery life on the Pro Controller is impressive, too, outperforming both the PS4’s DualShock4 and the Xbox One’s Wireless Controller. The only drawback of the Pro Controller is that, as a first-party Nintendo product, it rarely goes on sale. If you want one (and I think you do want one), you’re most likely going to have to plunk down $60. While that’s more than most other Nintendo Switch controllers, it’s worth every penny.

    Best third-party controller for Switch: PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller

    A slightly scaled-down clone of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller loses a few features while offering a few new ones for a slight discount, resulting in a very solid overall value.

    PowerA

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: More easily found on sale than the first-party Pro Controller, the PowerA Enhanced offers essentially the same form factor and responsiveness while adding programmable buttons in place of some of the Pro Controller’s features.

    Specs:

    • Wireless
    • Motion Controls
    • Internal battery charges with USB-C to USB-A cable included
    Pros:Cons:
  • Programmable buttons
  • No rumble support or Amiibo reader
  • Same great feel as the Pro Controller
  • Some users complain of drift issues with the thumbstick
  • Extra-long battery life

    • PowerA is a solid brand in the realm of video game accessories. The company’s Pro Controller clone, the Enhanced Wireless Controller, is our pick for the best 3rd party controller for Switch. With impressive battery life, the Enhanced Wireless Controller will last as long as you need and charges with an included USB-C to USB-A cable. Due to being a third-party product, you’re more likely to find the Enhanced Wireless Controller on sale than a Pro Controller, meaning you can save anywhere from $10 to $20 over the Pro pretty regularly. What do you lose? Well, there have been some reports of the thumbsticks in the Enhanced developing drift worryingly soon, though the reviews overall are pretty stellar and I personally haven’t experienced the problem. Amiibo figure chip reading is not supported in the Enhanced, nor is rumble functionality. Outside of those negatives, you get the ability to remap your buttons controller-side, meaning you can swap out button functions even if the settings on a game don’t allow it. This is a boon for accessibility for certain gamers with disabilities or those who just like their cancel button and accept button to be consistent across games.

    Best GameCube-style controller for Switch: PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller

    A favorite of “Smash Bros.” players, the GameCube form factor is available in a great wireless controller from PowerA. While there are few frills on this controller, being GameCube style and having that same feel, plus being wireless, is enough for enthusiasts.

    PowerA

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: For serious “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” players, nothing but a GameCube-style controller will do. PowerA powers ahead of its competitors due to its improved directional pad and wireless freedom.

    Specs:

    • Wireless
    • Motion Controls
    • Powered via two AA batteries (included)
    • GameCube form factor with slightly larger directional pad
    Pros:Cons:
  • Classic GameCube feel with larger directional pad
  • AA battery-based instead of rechargeable lithium-ion
  • Wireless
  • No Amiibo or rumble support
  • Excellent color options

    • The top-level “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” players largely prefer a GameCube-style controller to even the Pro Controller because of the button layout and/or having learned to play the game in the “Super Smash Bros. Melee” era. If you have a similar feeling, there are a lot of Nintendo Switch controllers on the market but none quite capture that GameCube feel like PowerA’s Wireless GameCube Style Controller. All the classic color palettes from the turn of the millennium are available, starting with classic pack-in purple and going all the way to Wavebird grey. Everything about this controller feels right, except the directional pad, which actually feels better thanks to being made larger and more tactile. A drawback of this particular controller is that it’s powered not by an internal lithium-ion battery, but by AA batteries. This can lead to some expenses over time and an annoying need to keep fresh batteries on hand (though you can get your own rechargeable AA batteries), but for those who truly want to “Smash, it’s 100-percent worth it.

    Best arcade stick for Switch: 8BitDo Arcade Stick

    A joy to look at and a joy to use, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick captures the stand-up cabinet feel with a tight joystick and nice, springy buttons in a weighty-but-not-heavy block that also happens to feature some really eye-catching aesthetics.

    8Bitdo

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Great visual panache, authentic feel, and solid construction make the 8BitDo Arcade Stick stand out among its peers.

    Specs:

    • Wireless or Wired (with USB-C)
    • Mappable buttons
    • PC Compatibility
    • Internal battery charges with USB-C
    Pros:Cons:
  • Gorgeous to look at
  • Expensive compared to game pads
  • Mappable/programmable buttons with macro support
  • Cannot be used with games that require two analog sticks
  • Internal battery
  • Can also be used with a PC

    • If you’re into retro gaming or 2D fighting games, you probably understand the value of a good arcade stick. Dropping the two analog sticks for a single joystick, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick offers that nostalgic cabinet feel with a nice, clicky, responsive gumball stick and springy, clicky buttons that are fully programmable. The Arcade Stick is a unique tool that is only appropriate for certain games. For example, trying to play “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” with this controller simply wouldn’t work, given the lack of a second stick. However, if you want to bust out some “Street Fighter 30th Anniversary,” “Mortal Kombat 11,” or “Dragon Ball FighterZ” with full control over your champion of choice, there really is no choice in the matter. As shown by their adoption in high-level fighting-game tournaments like EVO, arcade sticks are simply the superior option when it comes to non-“Smash Bros.” fighting games. Your old-school arcade beat-em-ups, shoot-em-ups, and score-em-ups will feel more like the originals, too. The Arcade Stick is one of the more expensive controllers we’re profiling, with a base price of $90, but that’s actually really good among arcade sticks across all platforms, with tournament-quality sticks sometimes reaching $200-$250. Assuming your library has enough games to benefit from the Arcade Stick, it’s a strong recommendation for the best Nintendo Switch controller for arcade games.

    Best handheld mode upgrade for Switch: Hori Split-Pad Pro

    If you want to feel like you’re playing with a gamepad in handheld mode, the Hori Split-Pad Pro offers improvements over the grip, buttons, and delicacy of the Joy-Cons, as long as you can handle the heft.

    HORI

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Handheld mode can use an upgrade and Hori offers that with the Split Pad Pro, which improves nearly every facet of the handheld control experience, as long as you’re willing to make your Switch considerably bigger.

    Specs:

    • Replaces the Joy-Cons
    • Larger grip, buttons, triggers, analog sticks, and directional pad than Joy-Cons
    • Assignable rear triggers
    • Turbo functionality
    • Must be connected to Switch screen to function—does not work as a separated controller, and not compatible with Switch Lite
    Pros:Cons:
  • All inputs are larger
  • Heavier than Joy-Cons
  • System is easier to grip
  • Cannot be used when separated from the Switch screen
  • Buttons and sticks are comfortable and responsive
  • Not compatible with Switch Lite
  • No motion controls or rumble

    • All of the Nintendo Switch controllers before now have been separate models that are designed with television play in mind. Hori offers a slightly different improvement in their handheld mode Joy-Con replacement, the Split Pad Pro. The Split Pad Pro tries to bring the separate controller experience to the handheld Switch but expanding the sides and depth of the unit, offering a rounded grip, sizing up all the buttons and analog sticks, and offering a true direction pad in place of the “button pad” of the Joy-Con. Despite the size increase, I personally didn’t find the added weight off-putting, though children and adults with smaller hands might feel as if the Switch has become unwieldy initially with the Split Pad Pro. You can still slide the Switch screen into the dock when the Split Pad Pro is connected; there’s enough clearance from the grips that it shouldn’t prevent a connection. There are two additional buttons within the crook of the Split Pad Pro’s left and right grip that are programmable, allowing you to actually add new functionality over a Joy-Con. Action and adventure games like “Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” or “Mario Odyssey” benefit greatly from the Split Pad Pro, but keep in mind that a modicum of functionality is lost, such as motion controls, rumble, NFC, and IR.

    Best single-game controller upgrade: Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel

    While the Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel only has one use—to improve “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” motion controls—it’s really fun for that one use.

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: It’s just a plastic frame for a Joy-Con that resembles a steering wheel. And yet, for “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,” that’s enough.

    Specs:

    • Plastic cradle for the Joy-Con
    • Resembles a steering wheel
    • Two in one package
    Pros:Cons:
  • Resembles a steering wheel
  • Only resembles a steering wheel

    • First things first, do not buy the Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel if you answer “no” to these questions: Do you own, or plan to own, “Mario Kart Deluxe 8?” Do you use motion controls when playing “Mario Kart Deluxe 8?” If you’re still with me, you should buy the Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel. Motion controls with the tiny, single Joy-Con are incredibly frustrating when Karting, and simply by slicking a Joy-Con into one of these plastic wheels, you get a stronger sense of how much tilts is the right amount of tilt to get your turns going. Do these plastic frames have any other use? Absolutely not. But they do exactly what they need to for their single use and, because they’re made by Nintendo, the plastic is high-quality and the fit for the Joy-Con is perfect.

    FAQs

    Q: Does the Pro Controller drift?

    No analog stick is entirely immune to drift, but there have been very few reports, even after years of being on the market, of Pro Controller stick drifting. Can the Pro Controller drift? I’m sure it can. Does the Pro Controller drift? It seems like an incredibly rare instance.

    Q: Are third-party Switch controllers better?

    While they offer some options that the Joy-Cons and Pro Controller from Nintendo do not, I can confidently say the best controller on the market is, in fact, the Pro Controller. However, the best controllers from third parties are not far behind at all. So while no third-party controllers are not better, they are a perfectly reasonable alternative to save a few bucks or if things like mappable buttons, wider PC compatibility, and turbo functionality are important to you.

    Q: Why do pro “Smash Bros.” players use GameCube controllers?

    The “Smash Bros.” pro scene really didn’t start to develop until the second game, “Super Smash Bros. Melee” for GameCube, was released. Many players cut their teeth on this version and some even continued to prefer it to the Wii “Smash Bros.” game released several years later. Even those that did switch to the Wii game tended to use GameCube controllers instead of Wiimotes because they offered more precision and the first few iterations of the Wii console had built-in GameCube controller ports, requiring no adapters at all. Because of this multigeneration precedent, much of the instruction in YouTube videos or strategies discussed online are based upon the assumption of players using GameCube controllers. That isn’t to say you can’t be a competitive “Smash Bros.” player using another controller type; there are successful players using Pro Controllers right now.

    The final word on the best Nintendo Switch controllers

    Overall, the Nintendo Pro Controller is the easiest of our profiled items to recommend to all players. It improved the most experiences across the board while not sacrificing any compatibility. However, our other options provide very specific benefits that you should consider before deciding which controller to pick up. No matter what you choose, I do recommend buying at least two additional controllers to add to your original right and left JoyCon. This allows for four-player “Mario Kart,” “Mario Party,” or “Smash Bros.” games in your living room—though there may be some fighting over the “superior” controllers.

    The post Best Nintendo Switch controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Grab this amazing Prime Day 2022 Xbox Series X + SteelSeries headset bundle https://www.popsci.com/gear/xbox-series-s-steelseries-headset-prime-day-2022-deal/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:34:03 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=455688
    Prime Day 2022: Xbox Series S lightning deal
    Xbox / SteelSeries

    This matching pair is the best Lightning Deal we've seen yet!

    The post Grab this amazing Prime Day 2022 Xbox Series X + SteelSeries headset bundle appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Prime Day 2022: Xbox Series S lightning deal
    Xbox / SteelSeries

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    The Xbox Series S and X are easier to find today than they were a year ago but they can still be tricky to track down. Even if you could walk into a store and just buy one, though, this early Prime Day 2022 Lightning Deal would be a very tempting opportunity for players looking to buy into the new generation of consoles. You can get the Xbox Series S and a matching white SteelSeries Arctis 3 headset for $294.98. Since the Series S retails for $299.99, you’re basically getting a free Arctis 3 headset with your console. The Arctis 3 normally costs $69.99, so you’re saving a cool $70 bucks.

    Since this is a lightning deal that will end as soon as Amazon has sold a certain number of console/headset combo packs, it’s worth noting that you can also get an Xbox Series S on its own right now for $289.99, slightly less than the standard retail price. The SteelSeries Arctis 3 is also available and on sale for $34.99 in either black or white. As of 10:25 a.m. on Day One of Prime Day 2022, 40 percent of the console and headset deals have been claimed so if you want this, you should go get it right now.

    And while you’re at it, don’t forget an amazing LG OLED TV to showcase those next-gen. games!

    More Amazon Prime Day deals

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    ]]>         Best Nintendo Switch games of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-nintendo-switch-games-roadtrips/ Sun, 18 Jul 2021 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=380301
    best nintendo switch games for a road trip
    Unsplash, Alvaro Reyes

    Half the Switch’s appeal is its portable nature, so add some of the best Nintendo Switch games to your road trip checklist.

    The post Best Nintendo Switch games of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    best nintendo switch games for a road trip
    Unsplash, Alvaro Reyes

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    BUST UP YOUR BUDDIES Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the best Nintendo Switch game for killing time in line with friends. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
    		SEE IT

    The ruler of party brawlers is also the king of killing time, assuming you have some friends with you and some extra controllers.
    PLAY, DIE, REPEAT Hades is the best Nintendo Switch game for the backseat for a few hours. Hades
    		SEE IT

    The roguelike indie darling and Game of the Year 2020 winner is beautiful with an addictive reward curve.
    GOLF FORE! EVERYONE Mario Golf: Super Rush is the best Nintendo Switch game for sitting on a bench in the park. Mario Golf: Super Rush
    		SEE IT

    Speed Golf and Battle Golf really set Super Rush apart, making the game feel less like a new iteration and more like a whole new game compared to previous Mario Golf games.

    Your home theatre is immaculate. You have the surround sound, the giant screen, the plush, deep-cushioned recliner. You’d spend every waking moment there if you could. But more than you’d like, the outside world calls, whether it’s the morning commute or a walk to the dog park with your pet pooch. But you’re smart, you planned ahead. You bought a Nintendo Switch console (read out our full review here), and can easily change it into handheld mode for fun anytime, anywhere. The only question is: what to play? Sure, you could just continue whatever game you were playing at home, but there are some games that are just better in the bite-sized chunks and unfamiliar confines that the world-at-large brings. Each situation calls for the perfect game, and while the list of best Nintendo Switch games is long, you can easily find the title for you with a little help. So if you’re looking for road trip games or public transit timewasters, we’ve got you covered.

    Want to play at home and roam? Nintendo lets you, well, switch it up

    Handheld gaming at Nintendo actually predates home gaming, with the one-game-per-system Game & Watch line debuting in 1980, three years before the Famicom (renamed the Nintendo Entertainment System for non-Japanese markets) was released in Japan. Since then, Nintendo has been the dominant force in the handheld market with huge hits Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo 3DS all taking the lion’s share of gaming eyeballs and gamer’s pockets. When the Switch debuted in 2017, it upended the previous Nintendo strategy of distinct home and handheld systems, combining the lines into one. The Nintendo 3DS line was officially discontinued in September 2020, leaving Switch as the only in-production line of Nintendo systems. 

    There are currently two versions of the Switch: The standard $299 Switch is both a home console and a portable one, while the Nintendo Switch Lite is a handheld-only version of the console that costs $100 less. (We’ve compared the two to see which is right for you.) A new addition to the line will debut in October 2021 with the release of the Nintendo Switch OLED, an upgraded version of the standard Switch with all the same features but more memory, a bigger and better screen, and a better-designed kickstand for tabletop play. This version will retail for $50 higher than the standard Switch, which will remain available on the market. But, no matter which version of the console you buy, the games library is great, and playing away from home is easy and fun.

    Do I need any accessories to best enjoy my Switch on the go?      

    For short trips, or if you’re headed somewhere with access to a power outlet, you don’t really need a backup battery. But for long trips and especially all-day multi-transfer plane trips, they’re a must. A good-enough power block can be had for $35, with higher-end models that double as AC adapters or have built-in solar and wireless charging hitting the mid $100s. Also, a carrying case is highly recommended to protect the Switch’s screen from inadvertent scratches while it bounces around in your backpack or shoulder bag. Carrying cases also tend to have snug spots for game cards, JoyCon controllers, and cables; a place for everything and everything in its place. Though not 100-percent necessary, a set of switch grips can also make the system a little easier to hold onto, and that more solid feeling can be had for as little as $20. Further screen protection is available in the form of either hard plastic screen covers or soft clear decals that go over the Switch screen. There are even car seat mount kits to put the screen on the back of a headrest if your tykes spend a lot of time gaming on the way to your grandmother’s house. If you’re interested in digital games over physical games, you’ll definitely need an upgrade to the Switch’s internal memory, and an SDXC card of at least 128GB is recommended. If you’re like me, though, the backup battery and carrying case are enough.

    Are other games not good for playing away from home?

    The games below are presented for the situations they best fit, but, in general, the best Nintendo Switch games are a joy to play both at home and on the go. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey lead the way as the two stand-out titles on the Switch, each featuring an unassailable Metacritic rating of 97. While they aren’t discussed below, these two games are simply an auto-include for any Switch collection and are games that can be played for 10 minutes or 10 hours.

    Can I try before I buy?

    While recommendations, reviews, and ratings are an excellent jumping-off place, never forget the value of trying a game out for yourself! Demos are available for select games on the Nintendo eShop. Sadly, demos as a whole have become less and less common for games as press hype has replaced try-before-you-buy strategies for driving sales. If you can’t play a demo, however, you can often find videos on YouTube or Twitch featuring in-depth gameplay, which can give you a better idea of whether a game is right for you, how much playtime is required for a basic session, and how the game might fit into your gaming schedule. Also, if you’re the type to abandon a game early on, physical copies are probably the way to go over digital, as physical games can be resold to another gamer or traded into many stores, both brick-and-mortar and online, for credit. An abandoned digital game has no such possible return on investment.

    The best Nintendo Switch games for on the go

    A great game is a great game no matter where you play it, but certain games tend to lend themselves to certain amounts of playtime. For example, an excellent RPG like Octopath Traveler or Dragon Quest XI Definitive Edition S is better digested a few hours at a time, rather than a few minutes at a time. While these games are definitely worth playing and may fit into your gameplay schedule, their play session requirements disqualify them from my “on the go” list. All the games for Switch below offer a single-session experience that can easily last less than an hour, some as little as a few minutes, making them fit perfectly into certain away from home situations.

    For short trips on public transit: Puyo Puyo Tetris 2

    Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 is the best Nintendo Switch game for short trips on public transit.

    Koch Distribution

    SEE IT

    Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 combines two puzzle franchises, Sega’s color-matching Puyo Puyo and the classic line-clearing game Tetris, into one package. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 offers a lot of the same pleasure loops as top mobile puzzle games like the former sensation Candy Crush. Clearing levels is relatively quick but can be challenging. At the same time, classic modes for the two games allow for longer game sessions (assuming a higher level of skill). The Nintendo Switch game is great for adults because of the nostalgia and great for kids because the gameplay is really easy to grasp. 

    Public transit is the perfect place to perfect your skills in short sessions, and when you’ve sufficiently leveled up your abilities, you can deploy them against your friends. The multiplayer options for Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 offer a lot of depth and competition. There are options for two to four players, either sharing a screen or with multiple devices. Six different versus modes offer a lot of variety. This is where a console game like Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 far outshines simpler, less feature-rich mobile games. For the best time against friends, I recommend Swap mode, which switches between a Puyo Puyo board and a Tetris board every 25 seconds. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 is the game with the shortest play sessions on this list, and thus one of the easiest to play on the go.

    For a long layover or flight: Fire Emblem: Three Houses

    Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the best Nintendo Switch game for a long layover or flight.

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    While the Fire Emblem strategy RPG series has an excellent pedigree, it’s not for the faint of heart. There are multiple storylines, and dozens of different units to add to your army, and the battles in this strategy RPG can be very unforgiving. You will lose…a lot. You will get frustrated. And then you will realize that you were making a mistake, you will fix that mistake, and you will win, and it will feel awesome. The game is portioned off into separate battles with story segments and army upkeep options in between, leading to easily chunked 30-45 minute game sessions. 

    Nothing is more boring than a long layover in an airport, but Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a brain-testing, beautifully rendered way to knock out your stay in Terminal A. Both the challenging gameplay and the intricate story can be a bit of a double-edged sword. If losing frustrates you to the point of not wanting to play, the Fire Emblem series is not for you. The plot of Three Houses is very engaging if you like “Game of Thrones”-style conflicts between clans or nations, but there are a lot of characters to keep track of, and ultimately only a few of them are important to the central story. So if you don’t like superfluous side stories and characters, there’s less to love here. If you’re already a fan of strategy RPG series like Disgaea, Final Fantasy Tactics, or Valkyria Chronicles, you probably don’t need to be convinced to get the newest Fire Emblem game. If you’re a strategy RPG neophyte, Fire Emblem is one of the most polished and rewarding examples of the genre, and perfect for mid-length gaming sessions where your body is forced to be in one place but you want to take your brain to faraway lands.

    For the backseat for a few hours: Hades 

    Hades is the best Nintendo Switch game for the backseat for a few hours.

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    A road trip when you’re not the driver is an exercise in killing time. As a kid, maybe you played Eye Spy or other social games. Inevitably, these games become repetitive, and when they repeat they become less fun. You can only spy something green so many times. Luckily, we now have video games to supplement the road trip experience, and we have game design that turns repetition into sweet rewards. Few games got the attention of Hades in 2020. A hit on both PC and Switch, it’s a new pinnacle for dungeon-crawling roguelikes. 

    The roguelike genre is built on the idea of runs: gameplay sessions that start fresh and end when your character dies. But instead of simply starting back from nil, the next fresh run is informed and improved by the last, offering carry-over power-ups or currencies that allow each successive run to be deeper, opening up new and more powerful things to kill you once again. Hades adds a mythological setting with familiar elements to anyone who’s watched “Clash of the Titans” or read up on the Olympians, making it seem both fresh and familiar. What all this means for gaming on the go is that Hades is the kind of game that’s easy to put down, but you won’t want to. You’ll die often, and each death can be the end of your session, but because you’ll get to carry over your rewards, you’ll want to start another run immediately. This makes the experience perfect for car trips, where pit stops and side destinations can break up the available gameplay time in odd chunks. Hades fills slots of many sizes extremely well, and dying never feels bad, so stopping playing never feels bad. Eye spy a Nintendo Switch game with universal praise that can’t be strongly recommended enough.

    For killing time in line with friends: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the best Nintendo Switch game for killing time in line with friends.

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Lines are back! Yes, there are live events. There are tickets. There are big in-person sales of cool gadgets (including the upcoming Nintendo Switch OLED). If you’re the type to spend a couple of hours in line to make sure you get the best seats or the best gear then you probably already know to bring a camp chair, something to block the sun, and several bottles of water. But if you do these types of activities with friends, I also recommend you bring a Nintendo Switch and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. There are very few games that bring together a group of friends (as well as tear those friends apart) like the Super Smash Bros. series. 

    The Super Smash Bros. franchise, old enough to legally drink at this point, features all the best Nintendo characters beating each other up. What was once a schoolyard debate has become one of the top fighting franchises. For the past few games, Nintendo has invited in other famous video game characters like Solid Snake, Sonic the Hedgehog, Mega Man, and Ryu from Street Fighter. With the Switch’s ability to play locally in tabletop mode, friends can beat each other up while you wait for the box office or doors to open, assuming you have a few extra JoyCons or Pro Controllers. But why stop there, as Smash Bros. tabletop action is also excellent for a picnic in the park, a day at the beach (as long as you protect your system from sand and seaspray), or an outdoor BBQ. Tabletop mode in general is a surprisingly wonderful way to play the Switch, and one of the main benefits of the traditional Switch over the Switch Lite. If fighting is less your thing and racing appeals to you more, you can get the same competitive fire from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, as well. Both games, however, become significantly less fun if you play them single-player, so make sure you’re among good company.

    For babysitting your friend’s kids: Stardew Valley

    Stardew Valley is the best Nintendo Switch game for babysitting your friend’s kids.

    Fangamer

    SEE IT

    It takes a village to raise a child. And even if you don’t have your own, you may end up caring for some in the short term. It’s a high-tension environment as you make sure their needs are met, they stay happy, and their messes are cleaned up. Finally, they’re down for the night and look like little angels sleeping in their beds and you’re left to wait for their parents to come to relieve you of your duties. Or maybe you’re simply looking to wind down before you head to bed yourself. Stardew Valley is the perfect game for this situation, whether you’ve just sent your own progeny or someone else’s off to dreamland. 

    Stardew Valley started on the PC but has been ported to every major home system. It’s a combination of farming simulator Harvest Moon with the socializing and task-oriented village life in the Animal Crossing series. You inherit your grandfather’s farm, which has fallen into disrepair. It’s your job to get the farm up to snuff, expand the business, interact with townsfolk, and even get married and have kids if you so wish. The game is entirely open-ended. If you want to spend 20 minutes picking and planting carrots, you can. If you want to take advantage of the radish market’s fluctuations to grow your bank account, you can do that too. Stardew Valley is the warm bath of video games, so in any situation in or away from home, it can be used as a panacea for frayed nerves. The game time invested is entirely up to the player, so it’s good as a quick fix or a long wind-down. There are even some multiplayer elements if you have a partner or roommate who also likes low-key rural tending of land.

    For sitting on a bench in the park: Mario Golf: Super Rush

    Mario Golf: Super Rush is the best Nintendo Switch game for sitting on a bench in the park.

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    I’ve always found video golf relaxing. From the original NES Golf to the Everybody’s Golf series on PlayStation consoles, to some fun mobile golf games, aiming for new personal bests with simple gameplay while enjoying some lush, green courses within the game world have always set me at ease. That’s why I can heartily recommend the newest Mario-starring sports game, Mario Golf: Super Rush, as a lovely option to play while sitting on a bench in the park. Enjoying the breeze through your real hair while enjoying the virtual breeze through Luigi’s mustache is a great time, made better by new game modes Speed Golf and Battle Golf. 

    While traditional lowest-score-wins modes are available, Speed Golf and Battle Golf, which are playable against the CPU or in multiplayer, offer a first-to-finish approach to golf, where careful shots go out the window in lieu of super-rushing to the pin. Battle Golf makes the experience even more mad-cap by having multiple possible holes to claim, with a first-to-three condition to win. These modes are really what set Super Rush apart, making the game feel less like a new iteration and more like a whole new game compared to previous Mario Golf games. While the story mode could definitely have used some more depth, and the online options (no tournaments?) could be beefed up, spending time in the sunshine is well-spent with Mario Golf: Super Rush. Feed the birds while making a birdie.

    FAQs

    Q: Can you take the Nintendo Switch in the car?

    Absolutely you can take a Nintendo Switch in the car. As mentioned above, there are accessories that allow you to mount the Switch screen on the back of a headrest, creating a little gaming nook in the backseat. Even without those, the Switch is easy to pack into a carrying case and doesn’t take up much space in a backpack. Playing in handheld mode doesn’t require any more space than your body normally takes up in the passenger or back seat, so game away!

    Q: How do you charge a Nintendo Switch on a road trip?

    Typically, you charge the Switch’s internal battery with a plugged-in AC adapter or by nestling it into the dock connected to your television. However, because the Switch’s AC adapter is USB-C based, a simple USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to USB-A cable can connect your Switch to hundreds if not thousands of battery packs and power sources. You may even already own something compatible with the Switch if you’re purchased a backup battery for your phone or tablet, as long as you get the right cable to connect it. When you reach a destination with a power outlet, you recharge the battery with a USB-compatible power plug.

    Q: Can you Switch without the internet?

    While the Switch’s online and LAN multiplayer options require an internet connection, all of the above games either have tabletop mode multiplayer or are fun to play single player. Just make sure you’ve downloaded all the games you want to play to your internal memory or SDXC card if you’re not going to buy physical games.

    The best Nintendo Switch for roadtrips

    The Switch is made to be versatile. Even games with playtimes or styles that aren’t conducive to playing while out and about have a suspend function that lets you pause the game longer-term and resume it later. That means that marquee titles like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity and Pokémon Sword and Shield are great for either environment. The Switch digital game store also features a ton of smaller-scale indie titles that are incredibly fun, like Baba Is You and Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove. Whether at home or on the go, the best games for Nintendo Switch offer a lot of options. Getting the most out of your Switch requires you to think of it less as a set-top box and more as an endless source of portable potential, so get out there and get gaming!

    The post Best Nintendo Switch games of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Get your stream on with more than 40 percent off Amazon Fire TVs https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-fire-tv-deal/ Wed, 22 Jun 2022 15:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=451665
    An image of a smart TV on a bright pink background
    Amanda Reed

    If you like the company’s Fire TV Stick, you will love these Fire TVs on sale.

    The post Get your stream on with more than 40 percent off Amazon Fire TVs appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    An image of a smart TV on a bright pink background
    Amanda Reed

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Technology is amazing: We’ve surpassed the need to plug a little doohickey into our TV to stream everything from first-run blockbusters to prestige TV. Modern smart TVs can directly connect to just about every streaming app you can think of. In this case, we’re talking about the 55-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni Series, which is $299.99—down from its regular retail price of $559.99—starting today exclusively for Amazon Prime members.

    An Amazon Fire TV Omni Series against a white gradient background

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Circumvent the need for a standalone Fire TV Stick with the Fire TV Omni Series, which you can control hands-free with Alexa. Additionally, enjoy Prime Video favorites like The Marvelous Ms. Maisel and Mozart in the Jungle in 4K UHD with support for Dolby Digital Plus (bonus if you have a compatible soundbar). You can also connect to favorites from Netflix, Disney+, and more—we always appreciate it when streaming companies play nice with manufacturers. Hook up your cable box, satellite, or video game console in any of the TV’s three HDMI inputs. It features built-in privacy protections, along with a switch that disconnects the microphone for security-minded viewers.

    The Amazon Fire TV 4-Series is an even cheaper option for Amazon Prime members on a tighter budget. The 43-inch size is on sale for $199.99, which is almost half-off its $369.99 retail price. Like the Omni Series, it includes support for 4K, Dolby Digital Plus, and all the most popular streaming services. However, its Alexa capabilities are built into the remote rather than the TV itself.

    You can’t wirelessly connect the streaming services on a smart TV without a router—thankfully, Amazon devices also have you covered with the eero Pro 6E tri-band mesh Wi-Fi 6E router and the eero 6+ dual-band mesh Wi-Fi 6 router, which both feature a built-in Zigbee smart home hub to connect your smart devices. Gamers can enjoy early Prime Day deals as well—snag the Luna Controller to take advantage of the company’s cloud gaming platform of the same name.

    For those without Fire TVs, we’re huge fans of the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite, which is on sale for $19.99. But, we can’t resist televisions with built-in Fire TV functionality, like the ones that are on sale below (and you can expect a lot more to come as we get closer to Amazon Prime Day July 12-13):

    The post Get your stream on with more than 40 percent off Amazon Fire TVs appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         A parent’s guide to the vast world of Roblox https://www.popsci.com/diy/roblox-parents-guide/ Wed, 08 Jun 2022 12:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=447975
    A Roblox character standing in the middle of a street in a virtual city.
    Hey there, you look a little lost. Jean Levasseur

    This simple, wide-ranging game is popular with young kids for a reason.

    The post A parent’s guide to the vast world of Roblox appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    A Roblox character standing in the middle of a street in a virtual city.
    Hey there, you look a little lost. Jean Levasseur

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Almost every day when my kids get off the bus, they’re chatting with their friends about Roblox. This is odd, because my kids hadn’t played before I started writing this article three weeks ago. Not having played, however, has never stopped my kids from loving something and insisting that they’re experts (here’s looking at you, Minecraft). So before I turned them loose on a brand new game, I decided to check out Roblox for myself and find out what the hype among 6- and 7-year-olds was all about. 

    What I found was surprising: not one game but an eclectic and varied collection of experiences to fit any taste, all running on a simple, if a bit clunky, user interface. As an adult, there’s not much about Roblox that I enjoy more than say, Assassin’s Creed, Apex Legends, or Fortnite, but there are few gems there. That said, I can see why kids, especially those not yet old enough for more advanced games, absolutely love the simplicity and straightforward approach of most games within the Roblox ecosystem.

    What is Roblox?

    As mentioned above, Roblox isn’t one game. Instead, it is a platform available on Windows, Xbox One, Amazon, Android, and Apple devices that allows anyone to create their own games—or as Roblox calls them: experiences. According to the game’s corporate website, there are more than 11 million different games available, covering nearly every genre and area of interest. They also span a wide spectrum of quality. Some are outstanding feats of game design, some are published but clearly incomplete, and some are all-but unplayable. But each one represents the creativity of an individual or group, whether they’re amateur game designers or professionals working for an established company. 

    With 11 million potential gaming experiences, you’ll be hard-pressed to think of a kind of game that isn’t represented somewhere in Roblox. I’ve found quality shooters, martial arts fighters, world-builders, role-playing games, racing games, and recreations of some of my favorite childhood gaming titles, like Sonic. My personal favorites so far are the world-building games, because I find the controls for the faster-paced fighting and driving games to be a bit sluggish. But in just a couple of weeks of playing, I’ve found games in just about every genre that are worth playing. 

    Is Roblox good for kids?

    In a word, yes. Because of the huge variety of available games, there are experiences that will appeal to children of all ages and interests. I asked the kids at our morning bus stop (kindergarteners, first- and second-graders) what games I should check out for this article, and they gave me a long list. One thing I found striking is that these younger kids tended to prefer role-playing games. One popular suggestion was Adopt Me, a game where you adopt pets and take care of them. Players can dress up their pets in all kinds of outfits, costume their character to match, and even design their own house. Brookhaven is another experience they all recommended, and it seems similar to the game Second Life. Players load into a city and have to build a life for themselves as their chosen alter ego. These types of role-playing games seem like an extension of kids’ natural imaginative play, just on a digital platform.

    [Related: A parent’s guide to playing Fortnite with your kids]

    Roblox also has a number of features that give parents control over the types of content their children are exposed to. Children’s accounts can be restricted only to lists of appropriate games, curated by the Roblox staff. Financial transactions can be turned off or limited. Chat features and friend requests can be limited or completely turned off—which is probably a good idea because many of the in-game conversations are inappropriate for younger kids despite Roblox’s moderation efforts. 

    As always, don’t rely on the in-game settings to keep your kids safe online. Talk to them about how to be a good digital citizen and what to do if they come across inappropriate content. 

    Decide how much you want to spend

    Roblox is free to play, but as with most such games, there are plenty of things your kids will ask you to buy. Players can purchase cosmetic content to jazz up their in-game avatars, such as clothes, jewelry, decorative weapons, and other purely aesthetic items. They can also purchase experience passes in some games, which give players enhanced abilities in the game. These might include extra health, strength, an improved starting item loadout, or fancier vehicles. Finally, players can opt to purchase a premium membership, which gives a monthly stipend of Robux, the in-game currency, and access to Roblox’s trading system.  

    One thing to keep in mind as you’re deciding how much to spend is that some percentage of the money goes back to the creator of the games your kids are playing, not just to the Roblox company. Roblox claims that on average, 28 cents of every dollar spent on the platform is paid out to the game creators in some way. While some of those creators are large corporate operators, a good number of them are smaller creators who will almost certainly appreciate the support.

    Can you really build your own games?

    Roblox is successful in large part because of the huge community of game designers who have contributed to the platform. And those contributions are powered by the relatively easy-to-use design interface that Roblox has created with Roblox Studio.

    There are two major elements to designing a game in Roblox. The first is creating the world map, which isn’t overly complicated. You can load in a blank world, or adapt one of the many pre-designed templates to your needs. The interface will let you create terrain; place existing structures and objects such as animals, vehicles, and buildings; or build something completely your own with a few basic digital tools. While there is a learning curve if you want to get into more complex builds, anyone can master the map-building portion of the Studio. 

    Walking around a map is fun, but to truly turn those worlds into a game, you’ll need to get into scripting, the second part of game development. This is where Roblox Studio stepped out of both my comfort level and available time to master. The Studio uses a lightweight and learnable programming language called Lua. While it’s not one of the more difficult languages out there, it is still programming, so it takes practice and study to master. Roblox has a fairly in-depth series of courses on how to build games that will walk you through learning Lua, so you and/or your kids can absolutely start building if you’re willing to put in the time and effort. And this is where Roblox can transition from a fun gaming experience to a learning one as your kids put in the work to actually bring their vision to life.

    I can’t wait to try out their creations. 

    The post A parent’s guide to the vast world of Roblox appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Best PS4 games to play on PS5 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/ps4-games-for-ps5/ Tue, 21 Sep 2021 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=395707
    These are our picks for the best PS4 games on Amazon.
    Natasha Roy

    Last-gen gems, from shiny new “Director’s Cuts” to untouched (semi) oldies

    The post Best PS4 games to play on PS5 appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    These are our picks for the best PS4 games on Amazon.
    Natasha Roy

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Best looking PS4 game on PS5 Best PS4 Games for PS5 Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut
    		SEE IT

    An incredible look open-world samurai adventure.
    Better with a DualSense Our pick for the best PS5 games is Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales Spider-Man: Miles Morales
    		SEE IT

    A Spider-Man spinoff that takes unique advantage of the PS5’s new controller.
    Plays like it's supposed to on PS5 Best PS4 Games for PS4 Control: Ultimate Edition
    		SEE IT

    Control’s dreamy, spooky story really comes together on PS5.

    There are a lot of reasons to love the PlayStation 5: It has an incredible new controller, unique exclusive games that run with almost no load times, and 3D audio built in for any headset. But “backwards compatibility” is the thing that makes upgrading from PS4 to PS5 a no-brainer (assuming you can find one). According to Sony, “99 percent” of PS4 games are compatible with the PS5. If you own a PS4, chances are you will be able to play all your old and best PS4 games from that console if and when you get a PS5.

    Playing PS4 games on a PS5 introduces new possibilities, though. Thanks to the new and improved hardware, you’ll experience higher framerates and shorter load times. Many games have been optimized to take advantage of the powerful PS5 hardware, maximizing those improvements and increasing visual fidelity. In some cases, developers have even taken the opportunity to go back, tune them up, and release ports made specifically for the PS5. The best PS4 games on PS5 make the most of the new console and its “next-gen” features. They look better. They run better. Simply put, it’s worth going back to these games, even if you’ve already played them, because they are better.

    How we selected the products

    Choosing the “best” video games is not an objective choice. Every one of us has unique tastes and would likely pick a different set of PS4 games to look back at on PS5. Rather, this list represents the technical side of the question; “What are the best PS4 games to play on PS5?” Developers have taken many paths to optimizing their games for the new PlayStation. This set of games represents that range of improvements, including games that have received new content post-release, games that have been re-released as PS5 native software, and games that have been made to take advantage of the PS5 when given the opportunity.

    I also happened to have a headstart in doing this research. Prior to joining Popular Science in 2021, I wrote video game reviews for many of the most popular gaming-focused publications, including IGN and GameSpot. More specifically, I updated many reviews with new sections about next-gen game performance on PS5 and Xbox Series X after developers optimized and/or re-released their games on the new consoles. 

    What to consider when buying a PS4 game to play on PS5

    The great thing about playing PS4 games on PS5 is you don’t need to think about it too much. That said, there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind to make sure you’re setting yourself up to have the best possible experience.

    Do you have a disc drive?

    Before buying a new PS5, consider your PS4 collection. If you’ve been buying physical disc-based PS4 games, keep in mind that you will need to buy the PS5 model with a disc drive in order to play them.

    There are two PS5 models available right now: The $499 standard model and a $399 “digital edition, which does not have a disc drive. If you purchase the digital edition PS5, you will not be able to play any PS4 games that you purchased on disc. (There is no physical-to-digital license conversion process). Any PS4 games you purchased digitally will work on either machine.

    Check your setup

    To really appreciate the best PS4 games for PS5, you need to have a strong entertainment setup. Most late-era PS4 games could run in either 4K or 60 frames per second on the PS4 Pro. When optimized for PS5, many games can do both simultaneously. Ideally that means you’re hooking up your PS5 to a 4K TV. (Almost all 4K tvs and monitors support 60Hz, so there’s no need to worry about the framerate). If you’re in the market for a new TV, we have some thoughts on picking the best TV for PS5 owners.

    Also, while the PS5 allows you to play PS4 games using the PS4’s DualShock 4 controller, many games have received updates that add in support for the PS5’s DualSense controller. Those features add extra immersion and depth that you won’t want to miss out on in your games. In general, I’d tell you to set the DualShock 4 aside and use the new controller. The DualSense is more comfortable in-hand, thanks to its longer handles, gets good battery life, and is more durable than the DualShock 4. It’s a better fit for every game, even the ones that weren’t made for it.

    Make sure you’re downloading the right version of the game!

    Despite the fact that the PS5 and Xbox Series X launched in November, 2020, most developers are still releasing their games on both PS4 and PS5. In many cases, buying either version of the game gets you access to both. (Though that seems to be changing). Here’s the wrinkle: You can download both the PS4 and PS5 versions of a game on your PS5, and downloading the wrong one on PlayStation Network, the PS5 digital store, is easier than you’d think.

    To make sure you have the right version, select the game in question in the PS5 menu and press the “…” menu next to the “Play Game” button. The third option down in the dropdown “…” menu gives you the option to switch to the other version of the game. So if it says “PS4,” you’re currently playing the PS5 version. If it says PS5, you’re about to play or download the PS4 version. Also, PS4-native games will have a “PS4” label in the top-left corner next to the name of the game.

    Best PS4 games for PS5: Our recommendations

    The best PS4 games to play on PS5 tend to be large, epic showcases of the last console generation, which are technically improved by the power of the PlayStation 5. Finding your favorite games is a personal choice, but I believe that all of these games are worth your time, and maybe even worth replaying on the new console if you’ve already given them a try.

    Best looking PS4 game on PS5: Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut

    Specs:

    • Framerate Up to 60fps
    • 4K? Yes
    • Length: 50 hours (via HowLongtoBeat)
    • Free PS5 Upgrade? No. Upgrading from the original Ghost of Tsushima to the PS5 version of Director’s Cut costs $29.99. If you purchased Ghost of Tsushima: Directors Cut on PS4, you can get the PS5 version for $9.99.

    Why it made the cut: One of the best looking PS4 games has become one of the best looking PS5 games.

    ProsCons
    Beautiful open-world depiction of Feudal Japan is a wonder to explore Generic sidequests feel like filler
    Incredible cinematic storytelling No free upgrade path on PS5
    Director’s Cut adds new area and story missions added

    In 2020, Ghost of Tsushima got to be the PlayStation 4’s swan song. A sprawling open-world epic set in feudal Japan, Jin Sakai’s quest to retake his homeland from the invading Mongol army told a compelling story with cinematic visual flair. Earlier this year, Sony released an enhanced version of the game, Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut, which adds in a second island to explore and new missions. The PS5 version of Director’s Cut looks about as sharp and beautiful as most of the PS5’s exclusives. Digital tourism has never looked so good.

    Most improved by the PS5 remaster: The Nioh Collection

    Specs:

    • Framerate Up to 120fps
    • 4K? Yes
    • Length: 78 Hours (Nioh), 72 hours (Nioh 2)
    • Free PS5 upgrade? Yes

    Why it made the cut: Nioh Collection is one of the best showcases of how much a PS4 game can improve when optimized for PS5.

    ProsCons
    Difficult, but rewarding combat They’re REALLY hard. Not for people who get frustrated easily.
    Two great games in one package
    Nioh gets a big visual and framerate bump on PS5

    Nioh and Nioh 2 are two of the hardest PS4 games. The Samurai-themed “Soulslike” action games, a genre known for its difficulty, require precise timing and masterful play to defeat the hordes of hard-hitting demons. The Nioh Collection compiles both Nioh games and all of their post-release DLC content in a single package on PS5. Both games get a technical boost, but the original Nioh, which originally came out in 2017, gets a particularly notable glow-up. Its sharper textures and the potential to run at up to 120 frames per second if you have a 120Hz TV or monitor don’t cover up the game’s age, but make it run much more smoothly. Most PS4 games get a nice lift from jumping to PS5, but the Nioh Collection soars.

    Better with a DualSense: Spider-Man: Miles Morales

    Specs:

    • Framerate: Up to 60fps
    • 4K? Yes
    • Length: 13 hours (Via HowLongToBeat)
    • Free PS5 Upgrade? Yes

    Why it made the cut: The advanced haptics in the PS5 version of Spider-Man: Miles Morales are worth experiencing, even if you’ve already played the game on PS4.

    ProsCons
    Swinging around the city as Spider-Man feels incredible Gameplay may feel a little tired if you’ve already played Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018)
    PS5 DualSense features really shine
    An entertaining comic-book story

    Okay, okay. So I may or may not be cheating a bit on this one. Spider-Man: Miles Morales, the self-contained spinoff of Sony’s 2018 Spider-Man game, was a part of the PS5 launch lineup. It’s available on both PS4 and PS5, though. And while it’s a great game that’s worthy of your time on either platform, I’d be remiss if I didn’t strongly urge you to play it on PS5, even if you’ve already gone through it on PS4. Miles Morales has some of my favorite uses of the DualSense controller’s haptics and adaptive triggers. From simulating the rumble of the New York subway, to tensing the triggers as Miles swings around the city, the PS5 and its tactile feedback connects you to the game in new and exciting ways.

    Not a port, but optimized for PS5: God of War (2018)

    Specs

    • Framerate Up to 60fps
    • 4K? Yes
    • Length: 32 hours (Via HowLongToBeat)
    • Free PS5 upgrade? No

    Why it made the cut: God of War is one of the best PS4 exclusives with no next-gen upgrade, but the game still has some worthwhile PS5 exclusive-features.

    ProsCons
    Incredible, epic story Not native 4K
    Tight, precise combat
    4K and 60fps at the same time

    God of War (2018) is a hybrid reboot/sequel is a tour de force that reimagines everything about the PS2-era cinematic brawler franchise. Its more precise, strategic combat and touching story is among the PS4’s best. 

    While Sony has abstained from re-releasing God of War on PS5 so far, the original is one of many games to receive what I like to call the “PS4 Pro+” treatment. On a PS4 Pro, God of War can run in “checkerboard” 4K, a technique used to prioritize rendering the important parts of an image as sharply as possible, or at 60 frames per second instead of 30. On PS5, it can do both of those things simultaneously. This compromise, combining the “resolution” and “performance” modes found on the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X, has been added to a fair number of last-gen games. This allows the PS5 to run the game in the best possible way without any kind of remastering or updating. 

    Like Nioh Collection, God of War’s combat feels much better thanks to that framerate boost, so the upgrade feels substantial if you haven’t experienced it yet, even if it was technically possible on the PS4 Pro.

    Plays like it’s supposed to on PS5: Control: Ultimate Edition

    Specs

    • Framerate: Up to 60fps
    • 4K? Yes
    • Length: 17 hours (via HowLongToBeat)
    • Free PS5 upgrade? Yes, but only for Ultimate Edition. Players who own the original version of Control will need to buy Ultimate Edition to upgrade.

    Why it made the cut PS4 wasn’t ever the best way to play Control. On PS5, it looks and runs great.

    ProsCons
    Creepy supernatural mystery story Doesn’t run at 60fps with ray-tracing on
    Fun telekinetic powers and shooting
    Some of the best ray-tracing in a game to date

    Control is one of a handful of late-era PS4 games that didn’t run so great on the standard console. Unlike the PC version, or even the PS4 Pro, the game couldn’t always keep up with the telekinetic desk-chucking and surreal wall-morphing that’s supposed to occur quickly and seamlessly. Control: Ultimate Edition, a compilation of the game and its DLC available on both PS4 and PS5, adds enhanced fidelity options and DualSense functionality. More importantly, though, it runs well no matter whether you play the game at a smooth 60fps, or prefer the visual mode that locks in 30fps and adds ray-tracing, an advanced graphics technology that simulates natural lighting. (Either way, the game runs in 1440p, upscaled to 4K). Even though you still have to pick and choose your visual enhancements, the fact of the matter is you will enjoy Control: Ultimate Edition much more on PS5.

    FAQ

    Q: What PS4 games should I play on PS5?

    Any of them! Aside from a small number of incompatible games, the entire PS4 library is playable on PS5. As we’ve discussed in this list, there’s a substantial, growing list of games that have been updated to take advantage of the new console in some way or have been re-released. Those games will show the biggest improvements when you play them on PS5, versus playing them on PS4. That said, most games I’ve tested have shown some performance improvements.

    Q: Is the PS4 better than the PS5?

    No. While comparing generations of consoles is often less straightforward than comparing technical specifications, the fact that the PS5 can play almost every PS4 game and runs them more smoothly ensures that there’s no meaningful debate to be had about which console is better.

    Q: Why would I want to play the PS4 version of a game on my PS5?

    As we discussed earlier, the PS5 can run the PS4 version of any game, even ones where you own it on both PS4 and PS5. Aside from reporters like me looking to cross-check both versions and preservationists who want to ensure people can retain every version of every game for history’s sake, there’s very little reason to hang back and play on PS4, rather than PS5.

    From a pure gameplay perspective, the PS5 version will always be better, but there are two small things that might bring you back. First, many games have separate sets of Trophies for PS4 and PS5. Trophies are PlayStation’s cross-generation progression that charts special milestones you hit in every game you play. If you’re a trophy hunter and you want to play a game again earning all the PS5 trophies, you might be compelled to go back. Second, the PS4 and PS4 versions of a game are often different sizes. If your hard drive is nearly full, you can check to see if the PS4 game is smaller. It’s actually bigger sometimes, though, so it’s a long shot.

    Final thoughts on the best PS4 games you can play on PS5

    There are tons of great PS4 games, and you shouldn’t ignore them just because Sony’s focusing on making games for the PS5. The best PS5 games will be waiting for you when you’re ready to play them. Whether you’re playing the best PS4 games on PS5–the technical gems–or your personal favorites, there are plenty of reasons to take advantage of the PS5’s backward compatibility.

    The post Best PS4 games to play on PS5 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The Best PS5 games to show off the console’s next-gen features https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ps5-games/ Fri, 23 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=382468
    PS5 controller on a table
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    The best PS5 games take advantage of all that computing power.

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    Best overall Our pick for the best PS5 games is Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
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    Go on an intergalactic adventure and conquer cross-dimensional worlds.
    Best for loading times Our pick for the best PS5 games is Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales
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    With a load time of two seconds, you can skip the downtime and get straight to playing.
    Best updated classic Our pick for the best PS5 games is Demon's Souls Demon’s Souls
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    If it was your favorite then, you’ll love it even more now with 4K graphics and improved immersive gameplay.

    Sony’s PlayStation 5, aka the next-next (next-next-next-next?) evolution for console gaming, makes Mother Earth the right planet to be on at the moment. Whether you already own the PlayStation 5, or you’re dedicated to tracking one down next time they’re in stock, here are Pop Sci’s Top PS5 games currently in the console’s excellent growing library.

    The following titles are not only terrific games in their own right but they are designed to shine a spotlight on every bell and whistle in the PS5’s formidable arsenal.

    Best PS5 games

    The adjective  “high-rez” is wonderfully insufficient to describe what the PS5 can produce. Sony packed in enough processing power to pump out more pixels than your TV can probably handle.

    Check out the “perfect particle effects”

    Confession: We’re total suckers for graphics. Always have been. Nothing gets us out of bed faster in the morning than a stunning screenshot. What you get with the PS5’s circuitry—thanks to the futuristic, AMD Radeon RDNA 2 GPU—are the most otherworldly graphics we’ve ever seen. Seeing the PS5’s visuals in action reminds us of a quote that our daffy, old college history professor used all the time: “That belongs in a museum,” he used to say. 

    More power equals less time spent looking at loading screens

    What you’ll likely notice first with the PS5’s stunning hardware is the way that the rhythm of your gaming experience changes. The previous generations’ load times? To put it kindly, they were not exactly insubstantial. On the PS5, those load times are virtually nil on the PS5. Sony has stated, point blank, that the PS5 is at least 100 times faster than the PS4. Faster load times mean more immersion. More immersion means that, for example, the virtual NYC that Miles Morales traverses becomes more tangible and cohesive, and convincing.

    The gaming gap year

    Developers need time to suss out the nuances of new hardware. Which usually makes it A-OK for you to hold off on purchasing a new console at launch. For the PS5, that’s not the case at all. One: Games that are cross-generational on the PS4 and PS5 are clearly superior, in every way, on the PS5. And the PS5 launch already has two games, right now, that would not be possible on the older hardware (Returnal and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart). In other words, the PS5 already has games in its library that you simply could not possibly play on the previous machine. 

    The PS5 is arguably in a league of its own.

    Tech is sometimes tricky. Advances in technology, particularly in the video games realm, are tough to articulate. Yes, we’ve been on the graphics-are-getting-better ladder for what feels like ages. Indeed, graphics are how we almost always decide what’s worth owning—and what’s not. The PS5 has stunning graphics. But what’s remarkable about the machine is how hard it works, and how much it hustles, on so many other fronts. What fronts exactly? Keep reading to find out.

    Old games look new again

    A new console means new processors. The Playstation 5 (tip: insert your monocle before reading this) uses a custom chip that boasts 10.28 teraflops and 36 compute units clocked at 2.23GHz. In case that’s not enough for you, there’s also the 825GB SSD. Also: Never tell anyone that you know what these things are. Or else bullies will take you behind the school and knock your Trapper Keeper right out of your hands.

    That complex list of specs translates to the following: the PS5 has crisp, tight, UHD graphics. How crisp/tight, you ask? The PS5’s titles are all unbelievably good-looking (so far). Still, one game out-pixelates all the rest: that game is Demon’s Souls, the 2020 remake of the 2009 original.

    Best updated version of an older classic: Demon’s Souls

    Best PS5 Games

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    One look at Demon’s Souls and you’ll say: “Fine, here’s my darn breath, PS5: Go on, and take it away.” Demon’s Souls is the O.G. Souls game that ushered in the era of Old Testament-caliber, pixelated punishment. Side effects include: controller hurling, garment rending, uncontrollable sobbing into your blankie. This game is hard.

    Demon’s Souls tells the story of a valiant and obviously suicidal hero tasked with battling the forces of evil in the dreary land of Boletaria. There are 22 bosses in Demon’s Souls and every single one of them includes a side order of PTSD. Harrowing and beautiful at the same time, every pixel pops in Demon’s Souls. Keep your blankie close by. New weapons, armor, rings, and Grains, which offer players temporary relief from poison and other evils. You can play at a high framerate for super-smooth motion or crank up the resolution for the most detailed possible graphics. Both look fantastic.

    Play PS5 games without delay

    The formidable hardware of the PS5 includes an 825GB SSD (translation: A solid-state hard drive). Couple the PS5’s phat SSD with the console’s Integrated I/O that offers a jaw-dropping 5.5 gigs of input per second—that’s a hundred times faster than the I/O was on the PS4—and the result is a game that has virtually nonexistent load times: Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

    Best example of super-fast load times: Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

    Best PS5 Games

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    No joke: In the time it takes you to say the words “Spider-Man: Miles Morales,” out loud, the game has loaded. Yes, already. No, we are not kidding. Yes, we know your chamomile is not done steeping yet. Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. Pop Sci’s tech testers discovered that it takes a mere 2 seconds, on average, to load SM: MM on the PS5. For context, the PS4 version of Miles takes a rather leisurely 20 seconds. That feels like forever when you’re holding your controller and staring at a boring screen.

    Better still, play as the slick noob Miles Morales instead of uber-cornball Peter Parker. The seasons have also changed: Now it’s Christmas time in NYC. Miles has his web-spewing hands full battling against a legion of Marvel super villains, including the pesky Tinkerer. 

    Best of all, Miles has a bad-ass bioelectrical attack that, once charged, can zap baddies, freezing them in place momentarily, while Miles parkour-sculpts the gang down to a more manageable size. *Come for the quickie loads. Stay for the incredible game. 

    Haptics are happening

    New consoles mean new lingo. One of the first words you’ll learn as a PS5 owner is “haptics.” What are haptics exactly? Glad you asked.

    Remember “rumble”? Video games have been rumble-enabled all the way back to the N64 era. Instead of making the controller jump around in your hands like an over-caffeinated trout, the advanced haptics technology of the PS5 offers a far more, well, nuanced experience. You’ve likely experienced a similar effect with your high-end smartphone. And no game does a better job of showing off the PS5’s haptic abilities than Astro’s Playroom does.

    Best for showing off haptic feedback: Astro’s Playroom

    Best PS5 Games

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    Yes, we know this is the pack-in game that comes with the PS5. (Astro’s Playroom is pre-installed.) And yes, it is odd to point to the pack-in game as a “must-have.” Since you already, well, have it. Having said that, you simply will not appreciate the wonders of the haptics experience until you feel it for yourself. 

    Imagine if there were, say, forty elves crammed inside the Dualsense, like one of those mini cars at the circus that’s packed with clowns. Each elf-clown is assigned to a specific part of your hand. Instead of a mechanized, abstract rumble, which had about as much personality as the droning school bell that tells us to go to the next class, haptics tech on the Dualsense offers up a veritable symphony of tactile delights.

    Take note of the tangible distinctions between walking on a variety of surfaces in Astro’s Playroom. When Astro walks on the grass, you’ll feel a kinder, gentler vibration than when you walk on metal. Another level features falling rain which you can literally feel—right down to the individual raindrops—on the DualSense that you are holding hands.

    Astro’s Playroom also happens to be a well-designed platformer, too. Our advice: Don’t skip it. And don’t underestimate it, either. (It’s truly great.) Load up Astro’s Playroom and bask in the wondrous sensory capabilities of the PS5.

    DISCLAIMER: The majority of the PS5’s library makes use of haptics in one way or another. However, Astro’s Playroom, after rigorous testing in the Pop Sci labs, shows off the haptics experience better than any other title does. (Though Returnal, which we’ll get to momentarily, was a close second.)

    Adapt or die

    The DualSense controller offers some of the PS5’s coolest features. We’ve already talked about the haptics, but there’s more. Specifically, we’re talking about the Adaptive Triggers. And, while most PS5 games find nifty ways to incorporate haptic feedback into the experiences, no game arguably shows off the Adaptive Triggers of the Dualsense better than Returnal does.

    Best game to use the PS5’s adaptive triggers: Returnal

    Best PS5 Games

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    Selene Vassos stars as the no-nonsense protagonist of Returnal. She crash lands on the planet Atropos and finds herself locked in a Groundhog Day-esque time loop. How the frack is she supposed to get out of this? Answer: By exploring the alien planet and uncovering secrets about—you guessed it—herself. Oh, and also by blowing the tentacles clean off the zeppelin-sized extraterrestrials who swarm her with bullet-hell projectiles.

    Returnal’s aliens, like many of the beaches in Florida, are both gorgeous and cruel. No, this is not a game for the timid. Indeed, gird your loins before pressing Returnal’s START button. Fortunately, the PS5’s Adaptive Triggers are on your side. They essentially turn each Dualsense trigger into multiple buttons. Example: Hold the left trigger halfway down to aim down sight (A.D.S.). Or, pull the left trigger—yes, the same button—all the way, to the max, to switch to your weapon’s alt-fire mode. You do this by feel. The triggers reliably offer a specific degree of resistance—it feels like a rubber band stretched to capacity—to the point where you never (whoopsie!) press the trigger all the way down when you intended to A.D.S.

    The way forward, the PS5 shows us, is not more buttons; the way forward is simply to convey more information via the already existing buttons. As a result, Returnal’s buttons are far more engaging to interact with. Returnal is a sublime sensory experience, one that presents a bit of a learning curve. Trust us: Your digits will adapt quicker than you think.

    Power isn’t everything

    The Ratchet & Clank series has been around since 2002. So it’s apt that the most sublime of the PS5’s stable of terrific titles (so far) stars the Sonny and Cher of video games: the bipedal lombax named Ratchet and his dutifully droll robot counterpart, Clank. 

    Crazy weapons? Check. Heartwarming story? Check. Cartoonish alien enemies? Check. Raritarium upgrades? Check. Seeing the dynamic duo on the new console is truly a stunner. Rift Apart moves us. It makes us laugh. It challenges our hand-eye coordination, again and again.

    Best all-around PS5 experience: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

    Best PS5 Games

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    Mike Daly, one of Rift Apart’s directors, says: “We wanted to make a game that was new and took the experience further than it had before. When we were thinking about what we could do, knowing what we could never do before, it became clear that so much of the structure of games is informed by how you’re able to load things into memory.”

    Marcus Smith, another director of Rift Apart, says that thanks to the PS5’s custom-designed SSD (see: the Spider-Man: Miles Morales entry above), the game “utilizes dimensional rifts … These are things that would not have been possible without the [SSD] of the [PS5].”

    Daly and Smith are both referring to the Rift Tether, which is honestly one of those rare, once in a console generation game design breakthroughs that come along every 3 to 7 years or so. “Rift Tethers” in Rift Apart serve as conduits or paradigm shifts from one realm to another realm. They look like rips or tears in the time-space continuum. You can literally travel through the tears, in real-time. Smith adds: “It is an unbelievable game-changer … You’re in one world [in one moment], and the next moment, you’re in another.”

    Rift Apart has puzzle-solving, haptic feedback (feel those bolts as you hoover them up, quite literally), adaptive triggers, and retina-scorching 4K visuals. Rift Apart does a great many remarkable things, including introducing a new character named Rivet. But the Rift Tether mechanic? Now, this is truly something that only the PS5 can do. Indeed, it’s only a small taste of the ways that games will potentially change in the not-so-distant future.

    FAQs

    Q: When did the PS5 come out

    The PS5 has been on the market since fall 2020, but you may not have known that since they have been almost impossible to get. The release also happened in relative slow-motion with Sony dripping out information about the system for more than a year before the official release.

    Q: Can you play PS4 games on PS5

    According to Sony, the “overwhelming majority” of PS4 games will work on the PS5. It’s worth noting, though, that not every title will get a swanky PS5 upgrade. You can check out Sony’s official support page to get a more complete answer. 

    Final thoughts on the best PS5 games

    When choosing the best PS5 games, it obviously comes down to your specific tastes. But, if you want to show off what your swanky new console can do, be sure to check out what next-gen features the title supports. Oh, and have fun.

    The post The Best PS5 games to show off the console’s next-gen features appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         There’s a really good Amazon deal on Nintendo Switch consoles today https://www.popsci.com/reviews/nintendo-switch-deal-40-off/ Wed, 11 May 2022 14:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=442349
    best nintendo switch games for a road trip
    Gaming on the go is a go with the Nintendo Switch. Unsplash, Alvaro Reyes

    An awesome game console for $40 off? Don’t mind if I do …

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    best nintendo switch games for a road trip
    Gaming on the go is a go with the Nintendo Switch. Unsplash, Alvaro Reyes

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    There are certain companies and products where any deal you can find is a good deal. In the world of video games, Nintendo rarely gives its customers discounts—especially on hardware. Given that, we’re surprised and delighted to inform you that the Nintendo Switch is on sale right now at Amazon for $259, down $40 from its usual $299 price. That may not seem like a lot, but at a time when game consoles are scarce, the prospect of paying less than full price for an active game console feels like a long-lost concept. If you’re in the market for one, even casually, today’s the day to make a move.

    nintendo switch box

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    It’s worth noting that the deal specifically applies to the standard Nintendo Switch with red and blue joy-cons, not the Nintendo Switch OLED. As we noted in our review, the Switch OLED has some nice advantages, especially if you plan to use it primarily as a portable, handheld console. The deal also doesn’t apply to versions of the consoles with special Joy-Con colors, like the mint and light blue Animal Crossing: New Horizons edition. Still, a deal’s a deal, and the standard Switch still looks great and plays all of the Switch’s hits, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Super Mario Odyssey.

    If you’re thinking about picking up a Switch today because of the deal, we suggest you do it as soon as possible. This is a deal that a lot of people are going to see and game consoles are often sold out, so we expect Amazon to run out of units or simply end the deal pretty quickly.

    If you do pick up a Switch today, check out our lists of the best Switch games and the best Switch accessories to round out your new console experience.

    The post There’s a really good Amazon deal on Nintendo Switch consoles today appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Best Xbox One accessories of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-xbox-one-accessories/ Wed, 13 Oct 2021 04:57:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/xbox-one-accessories/
    These are our picks for the best Xbox One accessories on Amazon.
    Natasha Roy

    Get the most out of your Xbox One.

    The post Best Xbox One accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    These are our picks for the best Xbox One accessories on Amazon.
    Natasha Roy

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    Best controller The Xbox Elite Series 2 is our pick for the best Xbox controller. Xbox Elite Series 2
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    Comes with extra features to customize your controller.
    Best external hard drive The Western Digital 4TB My Passport Portable is our pick for the best external hard drive. Western Digital 4TB My Passport Portable
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    This small, compact pick has 4TB of storage and weighs less than a pound.
    Best subscription The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription is our pick for the best Xbox One subscription. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription
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    This comes with a huge array of games.

    The best Xbox One accessories take a great console and make it better. Though some players have already moved on to the Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S, there are a lot of us who still get a lot of use out of their Xbox One consoles. Though you get everything you need to start playing right out of the box, there’s lots of gear out there that can help fine-tune your experience, from a gaming headset to chat with friends, to TV-style remote for when you pivot to watching Netflix or YouTube. Almost all Xbox One accessories are next-gen compatible, so you don’t need to worry about losing your investment when you upgrade your console. If you’re looking to enhance your Xbox One setup, we have a few ideas of what gadgets to get.

    How we selected the best Xbox One accessories

    When choosing the best Xbox One accessories, I relied on years of experience and research writing about video games. I’m an avid Xbox One and Xbox Series X user, and have used each product on the list extensively. In addition to my personal testing, these recommendations have been parsed from a variety of play testers and other publications’ reviews.

    Best Xbox One accessories: Here’s what we recommend

    There are a lot of different kinds of peripherals and add-ons for Xbox One. Consider this an overview of the best Xbox One accessories for the widest range of players. They vary widely in terms of what they do, as well as what they cost, but they all bring something important to the table. 

    Best Xbox One controller: Xbox Elite Series 2

    The Xbox Elite Series 2 is our pick for the best Xbox controller.

    Microsoft

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    Why it made the cut: The standard Xbox One controller is good, but the Elite Series 2 has a ton of extra features that make it feel special. It’s the best Xbox One controller for sure.

    Specs:

    • Estimated battery life: 40 hours
    • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Impulse Triggers, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks
    • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
    • Colors: Black

    Pros:

    • Tons of customization options
    • Sturdy and stylish 
    • Long-lasting rechargeable battery

    Cons:

    • Expensive

    Though Microsoft’s original Xbox controller is perfectly capable, it is not the absolute best gamepad you can get. If you’re willing to splurge, Microsoft’s luxury controller, the Xbox Elite Series 2, adds a ton of extra features, giving you new ways to customize and enjoy your controller. From removable rear paddles and a swappable D-pad, to a rechargeable battery and wireless charging dock, every aspect of the Elite Series 2 feels a little bit fancier. Even its diamond-shaped grips and matte casing feel luxurious. It’s far more expensive than the standard Xbox controller, but also easily one of the best controller designs we’ve seen this console generation or the last. When it comes to the best Xbox One accessories, this is a must.

    Best external hard drive: Western Digital My Passport Portable

    The Western Digital 4TB My Passport Portable is our pick for the best external hard drive.

    Western Digital

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    Why it made the cut: You’ll absolutely need more space for games at some point, and this portable hard drive comes highly recommended for Xbox players. 

    Specs:

    • Storage Capacity: 4 TB
    • Size: 4.33 x 3.21 x 0.85 inches
    • Weight: 0.54 pounds
    • Storage Type: SSD

    Pros:

    • 4TB storage capacity 
    • Small and compact
    • 3-year limited warranty

    Cons:

    • Not as durable as it could be  

    When you purchase an Xbox One, it features 500GB-1TB of internal storage. With most blockbuster games taking up between 50-100GB of hard drive space, though, you’ll fill that drive up before you know it. If you want to avoid deleting a game every time you want to install something new, you should grab an external hard drive to make more room. The Western Digital My Passport Portable is small, sleek, and ultra-portable. It’ll take up very little physical space in your entertainment system, and provide a massive amount of digital space for your Xbox One. You’ll be able to play and enjoy any game you want without worrying about filling up your console with data. And in an increasingly-digital future, that’s more valuable than you know.

    Best Xbox One media remote: PDP Talon Media Remote

    The PDP Talon Media Remote is our pick for the best Xbox One media remote.

    PDP

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    Why it made the cut: The PDP Talon media offers a more familiar form factor for those looking to use their Xbox consoles as streaming centers, with convenient buttons and functions.  

    Specs:

    • Dimensions: 2.01 x 3.54 x 10.79 inches
    • Weight: 1.62 ounces
    • Batteries: 2 AAA batteries (included) 
    • Compatibility: Xbox One, TV, Blu-ray, streaming apps 
    • Backlight: Yes, motion activated 

    Pros:

    • Controls your Xbox One system, TV, Blu-ray, and streaming apps
    • Soft, rubberized texture
    • Motion-activated backlighting 

    Cons:

    • No programmable buttons
    • Requires disposable batteries

    Some of the most useful items in our homes come with remote controls, not gamepad-like controllers. The PDP Talon Media Remote is an easy way to control entertainment-focused apps and functions on your Xbox rather than having to use your controller to do so. It’s great for anyone less familiar with controllers and gaming in general, and comes with more standard buttons that can be used to control your Xbox One, TV, Blu-ray, or the streaming apps you use the most. It’s even backlit, lighting up the keys when you move it. It’s also a nice backup when your controller runs out of power.

    Best Xbox subscription: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription

    The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription is our pick for the best Xbox One subscription.

    Microsoft

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Xbox Game Pass is an affordable way to make sure you always have new games to play—a must have in Xbox accessories.

    Specs:

    • N/A

    Pros:

    • Extreme value
    • Large variety of games
    • Play new Xbox releases day and date 

    Cons:

    • Great games are often removed 

    Keeping up with all the latest Xbox games can be exorbitantly expensive. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, the highest tier of Microsoft’s downloadable game library subscription, combines access to a list of over 100 Xbox games, over 100 Windows PC games, a library of games you can stream without downloading, and Xbox Live Gold service, which you’ll need to play games online. It’s the largest subscription service of its kind and, frankly, one of the best reasons to buy an Xbox console.

    Whether you want to play Microsoft exclusives the day they come out, try some indies, or dig into an older catalogue, there’s a wide range of games to choose from at any given time. The best and worst part of Game Pass is that the library is always changing. Like Netflix and other video streaming services, games are added and removed from the catalog regularly. (If you love a game and are worried about it being removed, you can buy it at a discount before you lose access). Overall, Game Pass gives you the ability to try new games without having to worry too much about whether or not they’re “worth the money,” which is an incredibly freeing experience.

    Best Xbox One headset: Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset

    The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset is the best cheap gaming headset.

    Microsoft

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Headset is a great value, and surprisingly capable for both casual and hardcore gamers. 

    Specs:

    • Weight: 1.53 pounds
    • Connectivity: Xbox Wireless (No dongles or cables required)
    • Dimensions: 9.2 x 9 x 4.2 inches 
    • Batteries: 1 Li-Ion battery, 15 hours, rechargeable
    • Microphone: Auto-mute, voice isolation, adjustable
    • Earcups: Leatherette, adjustable, rotating dials for volume 

    Pros:

    • Excellent treble and bass
    • Budget-friendly
    • Clear, crisp mic

    Cons:

    • Somewhat smaller frame

    There are a ton of great gaming headsets these days. Turn your head, and you’ll see several excellent options for getting nuanced audio while chatting with your friends and teammates. One surprisingly excellent pick, however, is Microsoft’s own first-party Xbox Wireless Headset, which is very affordable and covers all the bases. The Xbox Wireless Headset offers clean sound, clear chat, and a strong 15 hours of battery life. It features rich spatial audio using Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, or DTS Headphone:X virtual surround sound. And with its Xbox Wireless connection, you get a low-latency connection without plugging in a USB dongle. It isn’t audiophile-grade like, say, the Audeze Penrose X, but it’s one of the best Xbox wireless headsets for most people.

    Best rechargeable battery pack: Xbox One Play and Charge Kit

    The Xbox One Play and Charge Kit is our pick for the best Xbox One rechargeable battery pack.

    Microsoft

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Rechargeable controllers should be the norm, but at least the play and charge kit makes it possible.

    Specs:

    • Dimensions: 5.9 x 5.6 x 1.6 inches
    • Weight: 6.4 ounces
    • Estimated Battery Life: 30 hours
    • Compatibility: Xbox Wireless Controller (Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S versions)

    Pros:

    • Eliminates need for disposable AA batteries
    • Simple to set up and use
    • Long battery life, relatively quick charge
    • You can charge and play at the same time in wired mode

    Cons:

    • Should be a standard feature

    We love the Xbox One controller, but if there’s any one thing we hate about it, it’s the fact that it requires AA batteries for power. Sony and Nintendo moved onto rechargeable controllers years ago, but Microsoft hasn’t taken the leap yet. Instead, they offer an optional upgrade, the Xbox Play and Charge Kit, which lets you slot a rechargeable battery pack into the battery housing.

    While we protest the notion that it’s optional, the play and charge kit is among the best upgrades you can buy for your Xbox One. Its 30 hour battery life gives you tons of time to play, and when the battery dies, you can keep going in wired mode. You may say that it takes less time to swap out batteries than charge a controller, but at least you always have the option. There’s nothing worse than having a controller die and realizing you need to go to the store to pick up more AAs. (Plus, again, you’re generating a lot more e-waste).

    What to consider when buying the best Xbox One accessories

    You don’t really consider how many things there are to keep in mind when picking up some of the best Xbox One accessories. Some of the factors to influence your buying decisions are obvious, like what you’re using your system for and whether you really need a headset to chat with. But you should also consider how many games you plan on downloading and whether or not you purchased the discless Xbox One S All-Digital Edition. The best Xbox One accessories are just general upgrades: You should only buy the ones that specifically make yourexperience better.

    X-amine your console usage

    The Xbox One is a versatile platform. You can play games, sure, but you can also watch TV and streaming services and chat with friends, among other things. The question is, what are you going to do with it? If you plan to do all three of those core activities, there are lots of Xbox One accessories that can help. But if you use a different device to watch streaming media, you probably don’t want to get the media remote just because it’s available. Once you have a sense of how you use your Xbox day to day, then you’ll know how to upgrade effectively.

    X-pand your Xbox storage

    How do you feel about downloading games? Your Xbox One’s hard drive, whether 500GB or 1TB, will likely not be enough to hold all your games over time (especially if you have Xbox Game Pass). Consider that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and Warzone alone take up a whopping 200GB. If you only play a couple of core games, or don’t mind deleting and downloading games as needed, you probably don’t need to sweat the hard drive. If your interests are wide and varied, you may want to consider picking up an external hard drive to store more games. This is doubly important if your home internet service plan has a monthly data cap.

    X-tend your Xbox controller’s life

    Some players may be playing lengthy, marathon gaming sessions. Others like to play for half-hour or an hour or so and call it a day. If you’re using your controller for hours on end, you’re likely running through batteries quickly. Rather than using AA batteries, which generates electronic waste, consider buying rechargeable batteries or the Xbox play and charge kit, which allows you to charge your controller via USB. Many of the best Xbox One controllers that have internal power or that require a wired connection.

    FAQs

    Q: What are the best Xbox One accessories?

    The best Xbox accessories will depend on what you want to do with your system. If you plan to spend hours and hours playing the latest and greatest new releases, you may want to consider an external hard drive. If you play competitively, you may want to buy a controller with special features like rear paddles or trigger locks.

    With that said, most players will probably want some kind of headset, even if it’s just to improve their single-player audio experience. And, while it is expensive, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller is worth the expense, no matter what kind of games you play.

    Q: Do I need a special headset for Xbox One?

    If you want to chat with other players on Xbox One, you’ll need an Xbox One-compatible headset to do so. Any analog wired headset can simply plug into your Xbox controller via a 3.5mm headphone jack and should work automatically. If you plan to buy a wireless headset, you will need to make sure it supports the Xbox Wireless connection standard. Most wireless headsets work with either PlayStation or Xbox: Luckily, manufacturers are generally very clear about what consoles work with any given headset model.

    Q: Are Xbox steering wheels worth it?

    This all comes down to whether you play a lot of racing games or not. Xbox is home to the Forza racing series, so there’s certainly plenty of reason to invest in a racing wheel if you want to take your simulation racing experience to the next level. Steering wheels let you “feel” what it’s like to be driving your in-game car. When paired with pedals and a comfortable seat, you can close your eyes and pretend you’re actually driving that souped-up sports car. (Which is way safer than closing your eyes when you’re actually driving). Racing wheels can be pricey, but if driving is your passion then it’s well worth the entry fee.

    Our final thoughts on the best Xbox One accessories

    Having a cache of some of the best Xbox One accessories around ensures you can have the best possible experience with your console. Whether you’re extending your controller’s battery life with a play and charge kit or using a remote to put the controller down from time to time, there are plenty of ways to optimize the Xbox One beyond simply buying the best Xbox games.

    The post Best Xbox One accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Best indie games on Switch of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-indie-games-on-switch/ Sat, 05 Mar 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=428329
    Indie switch games
    Stan Horaczek

    For unique narratives and gameplay, you can count on these amazing indie games for Nintendo Switch.

    The post Best indie games on Switch of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Indie switch games
    Stan Horaczek

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Best Adventure Game Best Indie Games on Switch Hollow Knight
    		SEE IT

    Hollow Knight, a mysterious action adventure about a world of anthropomorphic bugs, challenges and entices in equal measure.
    Best For Most People Best Indies on Switch Hades
    		SEE IT

    Hades is an incredibly replayable action game, where losing gives you more chances to indulge in its characters and mechanics.
    Best Simulation Game Best Indie Games on Switch Spiritfarer
    		SEE IT

    Spiritfarer is a simple resource management game with an extraordinary amount of heart.

    The best indie games on Switch offer unforgettable experiences full of amazing worlds, engaging gameplay, and memorable moments. While most players think of games from Nintendo’s iconic franchises like Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild when picking the best Nintendo Switch games and/or the best multiplayer Switch games, the hybrid handheld console has a large and wonderful library of smaller indie games, covering a wide range of genres and styles. From heartfelt puzzle games like Gorogoa to unforgiving survival titles like The Long Dark, the best indie games on Switch offer just as much fun as Nintendo’s most famous games.

    With such a large catalog of great titles available through Nintendo’s eShop, it can be intimidating to find the perfect game for you, your friends, or your kids. To save some scrolling time, our list of the best indie Switch games highlights some stellar options for all types of players to try and expand their horizons.

    How we picked the best indie games on Switch

    I’ve been playing video games for my entire life and began closely following indie games in the early 2010s. Since then, I have played tons of indie games, designed games of my own, and covered gaming technology for sites like Popular Mechanics. 

    To pick the best indie games on Switch, we scoured professional reviews across the gaming industry, from both critics and consumers. We considered the depth and breadth of each game’s core gameplay loop, both from our own experiences and those of gamers as a whole. When picking an individual title as the best of its genre, we compared it to other indie titles critics considered the best of that genre.

    In each game, we took into account stylistic considerations such as a game’s art and animation style. We also noted games with exceptional sound design, voice acting, and soundtracks. Technical considerations, such as price point, playtime, amount of players, and performance in docked and undocked mode, were also taken into account. To offer a list that would be useful to the widest variety of gamers, we tried to cover as many genres as possible.

    Things to consider when buying the best indie games on Switch

    Shopping for a new game can feel overwhelming if you don’t already have something specific in mind. With so many amazing and not-so-amazing titles all right next to each other on store shelves and digital storefronts, it’s natural to feel worried about picking “the wrong game.” As with all things, it’s best to consider your own preferences before picking your next digital adventure.

    What are you in the mood to play?

    While it may not be obvious at a glance, most games fall into a familiar blend of mechanics and storytelling defined by their genre. Games like Hitman 3 and Untitled Goose Game may look dramatically different, but they have a lot in common: both games ask you to figure out creative ways to perform tasks while evading detection from watchful enemies. In Hitman, your enemies are guards with guns. In Goose Game, your “enemies” are farmers and shopkeepers.

    Think about what kinds of games you most enjoy and notice what genres they fall into. If most of your favorite games are role-playing games, you may not enjoy the latest indie first-person shooter. 

    There are lots of genres and subgenres of games. When picking out a new one, ask yourself what you’re in the mood to play. If there’s a game you love that fits your mood, chances are there’s something similar out there for you. If you’re in the mood to explore, maybe look for something you haven’t tried before.

    Will your friends or family enjoy this game?

    If you live in a household where everyone enjoys gaming on the same Switch, it’s good to consider whether your fellow gamers will also enjoy your indie game of choice. For families, in particular, the best Switch games for kids are not always the best Switch games for adults.

    Most indie games look nothing like Nintendo’s big Mario or Zelda games

    For anyone who has never played an indie game before, you may be surprised at how different they look and feel compared to Nintendo’s first-party game series like Mario and Zelda. While many Nintendo games feature gorgeous, stylized 3D graphics, indie games take on many different visual styles, including old-school pixel-style art, cartoony 3D character designs, or painterly, hand-drawn settings. The best way to enjoy any popular indie game is by keeping an open mind as you start your first play session.

    The best indie games on Switch: Reviews & Recommendations

    The best indie games on Switch cover a wide range of genres and gameplay styles. Each offers a unique, riveting gameplay experience on par with any top Switch game. Chances are you’ll only be into some of these games, and that’s totally normal. We believe there’s at least one game on this list for everyone. What’s more, this is not an exhaustive list: There are tons of great games out there, so we hope you’ll use these as a jumping-off point to dive deep and try new things.

    Best indie game for most people: Hades

    Best Indie Games on Switch

    Supergiant Games

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Simply put, Hades is one of the best games on Switch, with engaging combat, gorgeous artwork, loads of replayability, and a heartfelt story of gods and family.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: One
    • ESRB Rating: Teen
    • Playtime: ~38 hours

    Pros

    • A fun, vibrant cast of characters inspired by Greek mythology
    • Frantic, action-packed gameplay you can approach multiple ways
    • Incredible artstyle and soundtrack

    Cons

    • More challenging content requires quick reaction time

    Hades is one of the most stylish, action-packed games on Switch. You play as Zagreus—son of Hades, the Greek god of the underworld—and you have had quite enough of life down under. Hellbent on escaping your father, you journey upwards from the depths of the underworld in the hopes of reaching the surface world.

    What makes Hades so engaging to play is its approach to failure. In short: the game expects you to fail often. Instead of a game-over screen, however, you return to your home at the bottom of the underworld, with new conversations to have, new items to unlock, and new weapons to utilize. Riffing on the run-based “roguelike” genre, where players must complete the game from start to finish in a single try or start from the beginning, you uncover more of the game’s story every time you die and start again. Aside from this cozy starting point, the underworld is filled with ever-changing enemies, power-ups, and scenarios, making each attempt at escape unique. With so many weapons, items, trinkets, and power-ups to choose from, you can approach Hades your way, keeping things fresh as you repeatedly battle out of hell.

    With a mix of incredibly detailed 2D and 3D art, Hades makes battling your way out of an ever-changing underworld incredibly fun. Using multiple weapons, keepsakes, and an ever-changing assortment of borrowed godly powers, Hades combat is wild and varied, with each play session offering starkly different combat scenarios. And failure being the norm makes Hades easy to enjoy and takes most of the frustration out of defeat.

    Best platforming game: Celeste

    Best Indie Games on Switch

    Matt Makes Games

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Celeste features some of the best game design in the platforming genre. With a small set of abilities, tight controls, and a surprisingly impactful story, Celeste is a must-play.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: One
    • ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
    • Playtime: ~12 hours

    Pros

    • Challenging but fair levels
    • A well-told story with a powerful message
    • Clear and detailed 2D pixel animation

    Cons

    • Very challenging, verging on frustrating at times

    Originally released in 2018, Celeste has been celebrated as one of the best modern platformers. Similar to games like Spelunky and Super Meat Boy, Celeste mixes tried-and-true platforming gameplay with challenging, bite-sized levels to create a rewarding experience. 

    You play as a young woman named Madeline on a mission to ascend a massive, foreboding mountain. With the ability to run, jump, climb, and dash, you ascend the mountain and experience Madeline’s physical and mental struggles as she makes the climb.

    With a retro, 2D pixel art style and a great soundtrack, Celeste creates a beautiful setting for its challenging levels. And even after you complete the main portion of the game, Celeste awards you with even harder “B-side” levels that can really push your platforming skills.

    Best RPG: Stardew Valley

    Best Indie Games on Switch

    ConcernedApe

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: A seemingly endless game teeming with things to do, Stardew Valley turns the life of a small-town farmer into an epic role-playing experience and one of the coziest games on Switch. 

    Specs

    • Number of Players: Two player co-op or online play
    • ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
    • Playtime: ~87 hours

    Pros

    • From farming to mining, tons of activities to do
    • Dozens of well-realized characters
    • Fun local and online multiplayer

    Cons

    • Lack of tutorials can feel overwhelming

    Part role-playing game part simulator, Stardew Valley is a cozy game where you grow and manage your very own farm. Most of your time is spent growing crops, tending to animals, chatting with neighbors, exploring the village, and making the titular Stardew Valley as homey as possible. 

    While Stardew Valley is supposedly about farming, there is so much to do beyond plating crops. Fishing, mining, exploring, crafting, collecting, socializing, quests, romance—it’s all here, and it’s all fun. Tackling all the game has to offer amidst its colorful pixel art style and relaxing soundtrack makes it easy to lose track of time. Stardew Valley feels like its own world, one that’s relaxing and welcoming to visit.

    Best adventure game: Hollow Knight

    Best Indie Games on Switch

    Team Cherry

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Hollow Knight takes inspiration from many genres to deliver a world-class experience with unique design, engrossing gameplay, and vivid artwork.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: One 
    • ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
    • Playtime: ~40 hours

    Pros

    • Gorgeous, hand-drawn animation
    • A huge world to explore
    • Varied items lead to personalized combat

    Cons

    • Objectives can be unclear
    • Easy to get lost

    You wouldn’t think a game featuring hundreds of different hand-drawn insect-like creatures would have broad appeal, but Hollow Knight proves otherwise. Blending adventure, platforming, and action genre elements, Hollow Knight puts you in the shoes of a nameless warrior exploring a vast, subterranean world and the many mysteries it holds. While its cavernous, sprawling world can feel overwhelming at times, its tight gameplay, memorable bosses, and amazing animation more than make up for time lost staring at the complex world map.

    Released on Switch in 2018, Hollow Knight stands out amongst other indie titles for its incredibly detailed, hand-drawn 2D art and animation. Every character, whether they are minor enemies or major NPCs, comes alive thanks to amazing animation. Combined with the fictional gibberish many characters vocalize with, every encounter in Hollow Knight oozes personality and charm.

    Best multiplayer game: Overcooked! All You Can Eat

    Best Indie Games

    Team17

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: No other multiplayer game on Switch can top the chaotic fun of cooking as a team of chefs in Overcooked! All You Can Eat.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: Up to 4 players (co-op or online play)
    • ESRB Rating: Everyone
    • Playtime: ~45 hours

    Pros

    • Chaotic, hilarious multiplayer gameplay
    • Hundreds of varied levels
    • Local and online co-op

    Cons

    • Repetitive at times

    The Overcooked series is some of the most fun you can have on your Switch with friends and family. As a team of 2-4 line cooks in a series of increasingly impractical kitchens, players chop, cook, and combine meals to order as quickly as possible within the allotted time. In addition to the basic challenges of communicating and working together, the chefs must overcome all kinds of hazards, from slick arctic ice to kitchens spread across two trucks that occasionally split apart.

    Overcooked! All You Can Eat is actually a combination of the original Overcooked and Overcooked 2 games. With hundreds of levels to choose from, Overcooked! All You Can Eat offers dozens of hours of local and online multiplayer fun.

    Best shooting game: Superhot

    Best Indie Games on Switch

    SUPERHOT Team

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Innovative, time-bending gameplay and a minimalistic style make Superhot one of the most distinctive shooters you can play.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: One
    • ESRB Rating: Teen
    • Playtime: ~3 hours

    Pros

    • Innovative gameplay
    • Many ways to succeed
    • Minimalistic style

    Cons

    • Short playtime

    Superhot adds a substantial twist to the largely samey first-person shooter formula: In Superhot, the world only moves when you’re moving too. When standing still, all enemies and even bullets freeze in their tracks until the moment you move again. This central mechanic adds a satisfying layer of strategy to an otherwise minimalist shooter, creating one of the most innovative action experiences in recent memory.

    While a shooter where you can stop time may sound easy, Superhot is a challenge, as you are always outnumbered and outgunned. Often, the uninterrupted sequences look like wild action sequences out of John Wick or The Matrix, with your character weaving between bullets and taking out enemies with stray coffee cups when their ammo runs dry. That slick, stylish blend of quick action and thoughtful tactics makes Superhot feel exciting, even when the world’s standing still.

    Best survival game: Subnautica

    Best Indie Games on Switch

    Unknown Worlds Entertainment

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Subnautica takes tried-and-true exploration, gathering, and crafting gameplay from other survival games and combines them with a beautiful, intentionally-designed underwater world for an engrossing and engaging adventure.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: One
    • ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
    • Playtime: ~43 hours

    Pros

    • A beautiful, well-designed world to explore
    • Detailed crafting, gathering, and building systems
    • Unique flora and fauna

    Cons

    • Can be unexpectedly scary and stressful at times

    At a glance, Subnautica seems similar to many other open-world survival games. You control a silent protagonist who has crash-landed onto an alien world, bereft of humanoid life. With minimal resources and no sign of rescue, it’s up to you to explore, collect, and construct a suitable home before aggressive wildlife ends your journey.

    What separates Subnautica from other indie survival titles is its tight design and water-bound setting. Subnautica takes place almost entirely underwater, with the player exploring a vast, colorful, and carefully designed watery world. Some of the deeper, darker areas of its environment are challenging and genuinely scary, with large, hostile creatures lying in wait. But that’s what makes it a great vehicle for exploration: You truly never know what you’re going to get.

    Best simulation game: Spiritfarer

    Best Indies on Switch

    Thunder Lotus Games

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: One of the most emotionally affecting games on Switch, Spiritfarer is a lovingly animated management simulator with a poignant story about death and saying goodbye.

    Specs

    • Number of Players: Two player co-op
    • ESRB Rating: Teen
    • Playtime: ~31 hours

    Pros

    • Incredibly heartfelt and poignant story
    • Charming 2D art and animation
    • Fun, low-stress exploration and crafting mechanics

    Cons

    • Backtracking can get repetitive

    A cross between a management simulator, a cozy sandbox game, and an action-platformer, Spiritfarer takes the best parts of multiple genres to tell a very emotionally impactful interactive story.

    You control Stella, a newly minted Spiritfarer in charge of ferrying souls across the sea to their final resting place. Before they can move on, you need to learn about each soul and help them come to terms with their life coming to an end. To do that, you’ll need to feed them and keep them happy by gathering and crafting things that they want like living quarters and meals, while also upgrading your ship to reach new lands.

    But gameplay serves story in Spiritfarer: Its affecting and well-written characters and charming tone creates an emotional depth that makes every accomplishment in Spiritfarer weigh on you. Considering its serious subject matter, or perhaps because of it, Spiritfarer is an incredibly rewarding experience that may stick with you long after you finish it.

    FAQs

    Q: Is Nintendo Switch good for indie games?

    The Nintendo Switch is an excellent console for playing indie games. The ability to play docked or on-the-go makes it easy to pick up and play games whenever you want. On a technical level, many indie games don’t require a powerful system like PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X, so they run perfectly on the Switch. For more details on the Switch itself, check out our Nintendo Switch review and/or Nintendo Switch OLED review.

    Q: What indie games are coming to Switch?

    There are tons of new indie games coming to Nintendo Switch every month. One way to keep track of big new indie releases is through Nintendo’s own Indie World website, which promotes new and upcoming indie releases. A few exciting upcoming titles include Sea of Stars, a lavishly-detailed retro turn-based RPG; Loco Motive, a comedy “whodunit” adventure game; and Aliisha: The Oblivion of the Twin Goddesses, a 3D fantasy adventure that can be played cooperatively.

    Q: How much does an indie game on Switch cost?

    Indie games can vary wildly in cost when compared to bigger, more mainstream titles. Generally, most indie games on Switch cost between $20 and $40.

    Q: What is the funniest indie game on Nintendo Switch?

    Tons of gamers find Untitled Goose Game, a stealth-puzzle game where you play a goose creating chaos in a quaint village, hilarious. Its charming graphics, amazing goose “honk,” and adaptive soundtrack all elevate the mischievous, slapstick comedy of the game. We also love What The Golf?—a parody golf game with increasingly hilarious, ridiculous scenarios loosely based around golfing gameplay.

    Final thoughts about the best indie games on Switch

    Indie games make up some of the best titles on Nintendo Switch. With such a wide variety of critically acclaimed indie games across dozens of genres, every Switch owner should give one of these indie titles a chance to shine.

    The post Best indie games on Switch of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Turn your old Wii into the ultimate retro gaming system https://www.popsci.com/diy/play-retro-games-wii/ Sat, 02 Apr 2022 19:20:29 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=435285
    A man sitting in a dark room, his face illuminated only by the blue glow of a cathode-ray TV as he plays a retro Nintendo game.
    Oh, the nostalgia. Anurag Sharma / Pexels

    Find a new use for your now-classic Nintendo console.

    The post Turn your old Wii into the ultimate retro gaming system appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    A man sitting in a dark room, his face illuminated only by the blue glow of a cathode-ray TV as he plays a retro Nintendo game.
    Oh, the nostalgia. Anurag Sharma / Pexels

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Nintendo recently announced they will shut down the Wii U eShop and, with it, the last place fans could legally purchase retro games on any Nintendo system. Sure, you can subscribe to Nintendo Online for access to a few dozen older games, but those could disappear at any moment. 

    It’s natural, then, that some Nintendo fans are taking matters into their own hands, by, say, setting up a Raspberry Pi to run emulators. There’s a simpler option, though: the Nintendo Wii.

    The Wii is readily available, compatible with thousands of games, and can quickly be hacked to run emulators for the NES, SNES, and even the Nintendo 64. It just might be the best way to play retro Nintendo titles, as long as you know how to get emulators working. 

    How to play Wii and GameCube games without emulators

    But before we get into that, let’s talk about the easiest way to play retro titles on the Wii. The Wii can, of course, launch Wii games, which are solidly in the “classic” category at this point. As of 2022, the console is 16 years old—the same age the Super Nintendo was when the Wii launched in 2006. Time sure flies.

    Almost every Wii can also play GameCube games, provided you have a GameCube controller and a memory card. This gives you access to classic games such as Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi’s Mansion, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. 

    This isn’t emulation, and you don’t need mods: there’s basically an entire GameCube built into the Wii, meaning it can play these games natively. Now, there are advantages to playing Wii and GameCube games using an emulator on a powerful modern PC. You can upscale the graphics, for example, and save your game without using in-game save points. But there’s something satisfying about playing games on the hardware they were designed for, and with the Wii you can do that for the complete catalog of the two classic 2000s systems. 

    Just note that Wii U can’t play GameCube games from a disk. Neither can the Wii Mini or Wii Family Edition, which don’t have plugs for GameCube controllers. The quickest way to tell if your Wii can load GameCube games is to look for the controller plugs on the top of the device—they’re hidden under a flap. 

    Installing emulators is quick and (relatively) painless

    OK, we’ve traveled back to 2001, when the GameCube was released, but we can go back further. Back in the day, Wii owners could buy Virtual Console games, which meant you could purchase games originally released for the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and N64 systems. 

    Those games aren’t for sale anymore, but it’s pretty easy to get them thanks to the still-active Wii homebrew scene. This is a community of people who have gotten all kinds of software working on the Wii, including emulators for just about any system you can think of. Emulators, of course, only work if you have digital copies of the games (ROMs), and those are legally questionable if you don’t own the original game. Keep that in mind. And please note that these steps are for the Wii, not the Wii U. The best guide for running homebrew on the Wii U is at wiiuhacks.guide.

    [Related: How to run Android apps and games on your computer]

    With your Wii at the ready, the easiest way to get started is by heading to Wii.guide and clicking the Start Here link at the top. That is the best guide on the internet at this point, and (crucially) is kept up to date. But here’s a quick overview of the LetterBomb hack, which is by far the most common way to set up homebrew and install an emulator on your Wii:

    • Head to please.hackmii.com on your computer and enter the MAC address for your Wii, which you can find by opening the Wii settings under Internet > Console Information. You’ll end up with a ZIP file.
    • Extract the ZIP file onto an SD card.
    • Put that SD card in your Wii. Open the Wii message board by clicking the envelope in the bottom-right corner. You’ll see an envelope with a bomb icon. Click that envelope. Note that if the date on your Wii is wrong, you might have trouble finding the bomb. If that happens, fix the date on your Wii in the settings.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to install the Homebrew Channel and BootMii.

    It’s a good idea to back up your Wii at this point—Wii.guide has excellent instructions. Once that’s done, you can install some emulators. Again, here’s a quick overview: 

    • Load the Homebrew Channel, just to make sure it’s working. Take the SD card out of your Wii and plug it into your computer.
    • Download the Homebrew Browser to your computer. Extract the ZIP and copy the folder homebrew_browser to the /apps directory on your SD card, then unmount it.
    • Plug the SD card into your Wii and load the Homebrew Channel. You should see the Homebrew Browser, which you can use to install software.

    You now have everything you need to grab some emulators. Here’s a few you’ll want to pick up from the Homebrew Channel:

    • FCE Ultra GX for NES
    • SNES 9x GX for SNES
    • VBA GX for Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance
    • Genesis Plus GX for Sega Genesis, Sega CD, Sega Master System, and Sega Game Gear
    • Not64 for N64
    • DOSbox for old PC games (but make sure you plug in a USB keyboard or you won’t get far)

    That’s a lot of retro gaming capability built into a system you probably forgot about!

    There are plenty of controllers available

    A nice thing about the Wii is that all kinds of controllers work with it, meaning you’ve got lots of options for playing classic games. Here’s a quick summary: 

    • The Wii Classic Controller works well for most games you can emulate and is fairly easy to find on the used market.
    • The WiiMote works quite well for NES games—just hold it sideways.
    • GameCube controllers work with most emulators and are a great layout for the N64 in particular.
    • The controllers that came with the NES and SNES Classic work on the Wii—just plug them into a WiiMote.

    With all these options, you should have a controller that works for just about any game you can load, and most emulators make it easy to customize the button mapping. 

    The Wii easily connects to CRT TVs

    Old games just look better on old cathode-ray tube (CRT) televisions, because they’re designed with those displays in mind. The Wii uses an RGB connection that is easy to plug into those TVs. It also supports the 4:3 aspect ratio, meaning you don’t need a widescreen TV to play games. This is crucial if you’re looking to fully re-create the retro experience. 

    Emulators are only the beginning

    You can do a lot more with the Wii if you’re willing to learn. There’s WiiMC, which is a media player that can also play DVDs. There’s a variety of homebrew games. Enthusiasts have built replacements for the defunct online services. And more advanced users can even set up their Wii to play backed-up Wii and Gamecube games from an external hard drive.

    It’s remarkable how useful the Wii is all these years later, and I hope this guide gives you a starting point. If you have an old Wii, or have access to one, dig it up. It’s got a lot of potential.

    Correction, April 13, 2022: A previous version of this story said the Wii Mini does not have a disk drive and that many of the same steps listed here could be applied to the Wii U. The Wii Mini does have a disk drive and you will need to use a different process to install emulators on a Wii U.

    The post Turn your old Wii into the ultimate retro gaming system appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         The best Nintendo Switch games of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-nintendo-switch-games/ Sat, 09 Oct 2021 19:16:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-nintendo-switch-games/
    kid playing Nintendo Switch
    Some of the best Nintendo Switch games you can purchase. Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

    While not a graphical powerhouse, style shines through in the best Nintendo Switch games.

    The post The best Nintendo Switch games of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    kid playing Nintendo Switch
    Some of the best Nintendo Switch games you can purchase. Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

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    The Nintendo Switch is undoubtedly a less powerful games machine than the PS5, Xbox Series S/X, or a top-of-the-line gaming PC. But for Nintendo, power has never really been the point. The Switch does not lack visual innovation or artistic flourishes necessary to create inarguably beautiful games whose visuals fully justify playing them on a really big-screen TV. From 2.5D to watercolors, living animation to sci-fi worlds, the Nintendo Switch can easily be a feast for the eyes. While the recently previewed Nintendo Switch OLED is upping the aesthetics ante for handheld gaming, here are the best Nintendo Switch games that justify playing on your big screen to show off what creativity can do.

    The best Nintendo games for Switch

    The best role playing games for Switch

    The best indie games for Switch

    The best retro collections for Switch

    The best Nintendo games for the Nintendo Switch

    Nintendo’s first-party games are legendary for their quality, and often take advantage of their respective consoles better than most third-party titles. The Switch has no shortage of games designed by Nintendo, and most of them rank amongst the best this system has to offer.

    The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

    The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    A flagship series for Nintendo, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild helped sell the Switch when it launched in 2017. Even in 2023, its graphics still impress. The expansive vistas and intricate boss designs set the tone for a fantasy adventure that players find highly addictive. Additionally, the ability to climb on nearly every surface in the game means that if a little mountaineering feels like it should go on the agenda, it can, giving the player an opportunity to appreciate a graphics style that is part anime, part fairy tale, and part coloring book. A truly beautiful game that you’ll want to play before the recently announced sequel hits shelves.

    Luigi’s Mansion 3

    Luigi's Mansion 3

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Luigi’s Mansion is an under-appreciated franchise for Nintendo, just as the taller, more slender Mario brother doesn’t get the love he deserves. While the puzzles and action of his franchise can be an acquired taste, there’s no question that the graphics taste delicious, like cloying, artificial fruit flavors in 2-percent milk. Luigi’s Mansion 3’s graphics style espouses the most cartoony elements of Nintendo’s Mario aesthetic, with characters being pushed and pulled by supernatural (and super-suction) forces. Incredible transition and transparency effects give the Scooby Doo-esque g-g-g-g-ghosts a really c-c-c-c-cool look. Best enjoyed sitting cross-legged on the floor in underoos, this is one of the best Mario games for Switch by being different from the rest.     

    Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

    Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    A love letter to the family-friendly Nintendo franchise that has persisted for generations, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an updated and improved version of the Wii U Mario Kart 8, and features tracks from all the previous iterations of the games, updated with higher-definition graphics that really shine. The characters are big and animated, and the levels include many familiar foes and obstacles from Mario and other Nintendo series. Gameplay is a sophisticated evolution of classic kart racing with drift-boosting and the use of power-ups key to victory. In multiplayer, where Mario Kart 8 Deluxe truly shines, the signature balancing mechanics of the series give stronger power-ups to players that are lagging behind, allowing for some frantic finishes as players jockey for position. Good in single-player but great in multiplayer, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of the best and most beautiful games to bust out at a party, family game night, or sleepover.

    Animal Crossing: New Horizons

    Animal Crossing New Horizons

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    A series that has gone from cult favorite to big blockbuster, the beauty of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is that it’s entirely inoffensive and impossible to lose. You play simply to live in the space of the game, adding to your virtual home and interacting with your neighbors. The writing and animation make these interactions really fun, with great humor and wordplay sprinkled throughout. There’s nothing here that wouldn’t be appropriate for kids and nothing that wouldn’t appeal to adults. It’s a kid-friendly game that isn’t childish, and it encourages kindness, consideration, and community. Those are lessons kids of any age can afford to learn. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a warm hug and a great, cute way to spend 20-30 minutes a day—definitely one of the best Switch games for kids.

    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Fun for casuals and competitors, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the newest in the genre-defining platform fighting franchise. Featuring characters and stages from not only Nintendo but also Sega, Namco, SNK, Square Enix, and other big game-makers, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the, excuse the repetition, ultimate crossover game. Any player with a deep play history will want to try out the characters that they remember and the frantic, fun, and fierce battles will make them want to improve their skills (and possibly upgrade to the best Nintendo Switch controllers to do so). A bit of a beautiful nostalgia trip as a single-player game, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate blooms as a multiplayer game, blowing away the very stiff competition on a system known for great multiplayer gaming. While the game can be intimidating for first-timers against veterans, once you get the Smash bug, you’ll put dozens if not hundreds of hours into your battles.

    The best role playing games for the Nintendo Switch

    Role playing games have been a popular genre on Nintendo systems since the original Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest games were released in the 1980s. The Switch is home to newer entries in those series along many others. If you’re the type of gamer who likes to get lost in lore, these are the games you should check out fitst.

    Octopath Traveler

    Octopath Traveler

    Square Enix

    SEE IT

    Octopath Traveler offers old-school gameplay with close-to-traditional RPG battles and a pretty standard story, but the plot isn’t the only thing that is pretty. The sprites for both enemies and player characters are smooth and gorgeous, evoking a simpler gaming era, but with some wonderful scaling and twisting bells and whistles to keep them from seeming staid. Lighting and spell effects, focus shifts, and particularly the tapestry-esque hues employed in the game’s color palette become a character unto themselves. While the game is just as lovely in handheld, your big screen will really allow you to savor the details. A sequel, Octopath Traveler II was released in 2022.

    Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age

    Dragon Quest XI

    Square Enix

    SEE IT

    Square Enix had its work cut out for it to bring the latest Dragon Quest game to the Nintendo Switch, but all that effort paid off. The beautiful, cell-shaded turn-based JRPG (Japanese Role Playing Game) never overstays its welcome, which is quite something considering its 100+ hour campaign. Quality of life improvements like increasing your battle speed and a tactical skill progression system will keep you engaged as the game’s story unfolds before you. A big part of what makes the Dragon Quest series special is its pacing; each section of Dragon Quest XI plays out like one story in a fantasy anthology. The characters in your party change over the course of the game, and you’re rewarded for doing optional side quests with additional backstory for each. As if that wasn’t enough, a 16-bit version of this game is also available on the same cartridge, so you can have a truly old school JRPG experience with you on the go.

    Tales Of Vesperia Definitive Edition

    Tales Of Vesperia Definitive Edition

    Bandai Namco Entertainment

    SEE IT

    Tales of Vesperia was the first entry in this long-running JRPG franchise to be released in HD, but this definitive edition adds an extra layer of visual polish that makes it even easier to appreciate. The standout feature of each Tales game is the fast-paced real-time battle system, which relies on constant movement and on-the-fly strategy to master. Special moves are mapped to different button combinations, and you can switch between the characters in your party to suit your play style. Melee characters will attack enemies up close with weapons, magic users can inflict damage from afar, healers will keep the rest of the party fighting fit, and so on. This version of Tales of Vesperia earns the “definitive” distinction by including characters and items previously exclusive to the Japanese version of the game, as well as improved graphics.

    Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition

    Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition

    Monolith Soft

    SEE IT

    There are three entries in the Xenoblade Chronicles series available on Nintendo Switch, but this HD remastering of the first title is the place to start. The game takes place on the Bionis, a giant biological warrior engaged in an all-out war with the Mechonis, a technological rival. As you progress through the massive open-world game, you’ll scale the bionis to discover why the two warriors were fighting in the first place. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition will awe you with its sheer scale, with huge environments that don’t require you to go through multiple loading zones. While the game’s story is great on its own, the Definitive Edition features an additional chapter that fills in some plot holes. By the end of the adventure you’ll be happy there are two more games that continue the story even further.

    Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster

    Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster

    Bandai Namco Entertainment

    SEE IT

    Both of the games included in this collection were relatively obscure upon their original release on the Nintendo Gamecube in the mid 2000s, but they’re JRPG gems well worth revisiting. The calling card of the Baten Kaitos game is, well, its card-based battle system. As battles progress, you’ll receive different cards, which allow you to perform actions (attacking, using spells, etc.) and use items. It’s up to you to build your deck so as not to be at the mercy of a lucky opening hand. Bandai Namco Entertainment did a great job overhauling the visuals of both games, which is great because the unique areas really benefited from the extra polish. Some may quibble with the fact that the original voice acting, which has admittedly aged poorly given the production value in games today, was left in-tact, but it has a sort of period-piece charm. There are a lot of excellent role playing games on the Nintendo Switch, but the Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster is well worth a look.

    The best indie games for the Nintendo Switch

    Independent studios have done a fantastic job supporting the Nintendo Switch, and filling out its library with ttiles that can stand toe-to-toe with games released by gigantic studios. Some of the system’s best indie games are downloadable only, which means you should be sure to keep a Nintendo Switch eShop card on-hand so you can pick them up.

    GRIS

    GRIS

    Devolver Digital

    SEE IT

    The Nintendo Switch has been a boon to indie game developers. Tons of previously PC-bound titles made by small teams with shorter gameplay times have performed exceedingly well as download-only titles for the Switch. It has given gamers an alternative to Nintendo’s stream of AAA-budget dozens-of-hours-long mainline franchises. GRIS rises above the rest with a moving picture-book design that may be the best Switch art to date. The story of a girl and her magical dress (but much more than that, to not spoil anything), GRIS scales and moves like an animated film more than a videogame, with colors that are simultaneously luxurious, sad, and a little ominous. It’s the storybook combo that draws young and old alike to the works of Hans Christen Anderson, the Brothers Grimm, and the 1001 Arabian Nights. Of all the games in this list, GRIS may be the one that is as enjoyable to watch as it is to play.

    Tunic

    Tunic

    Finji

    SEE IT

    With Tunic, developer Finji managed to create the ultimate homage to top-down Legend of Zelda games while creating a unique, vibey game that can hold its own. While this is primarily an action game, much of Tunic’s fun comes from solving puzzles and traversing the mysterious environment. As you progress, you’ll begin to fill out a manual reminiscent of the ones that came with video games in the 1990s. The game relies on environmental storytelling to help you intuit how to solve problems rather than offering up a lengthy tutorial. There’s no voice acting and limited text—some of which is in an original language. There’s nothing quite like Tunic on the Nintendo Switch, and its ability to distill the best elements of classic games with some modern sensibilities makes it well worth trying.

    Sea of Stars

    Sea of Stars

    Sabatage Studios

    SEE IT

    Sea of Stars is the Japanese role playing games gamers have been clamoring for since Chrono Trigger was released on the Super Nintendo in the mid 1990s. In fact, the same compsor (Yasunori Mitsuda) worked on the music for both titles. What sets Sea of Stars apart from most of the other indie JRPGs on the Switch is the sheer attention to detail. Its graphics pop, its story is compelling, and the game never feels like it’s overstayed its welcome. While Sea of Stars’ influences are clear, the game’s developers made quality of life tweaks that separate it from titles released in the original 16-bit era. Deaths don’t feel punishing, movement feels more fluid, and the game’s controls are smooth. Sea of Stars is a special game, and it’s earned its place among the best indie games released on any platform.

    Fashion Police Squad

    Fashion Police Squad

    No More Robots

    SEE IT

    Fashion Police Squad is what you get if Doom was less about demons and more about denim. The colorful first-person shooter puts you in the shoes of a police officer who’s hunting down unfashionable people and upgrading their wardrobe with a belt whip, sewing gun, and assortment of other weapons. Making a lighthearted shooter is difficult, but developer No More Robots struck the right balance between gameplay and style. Fashion Police Squad feels like it belongs in the Sega Dreamcast’s library due to the sheer originality of its concept, its frantic-but-fun gameplay, and genuinely funny sense of humor. While the game is lighthearted, it still requires the same skills as any first-person shooter, so don’t expect a cakewalk.

    The best retro collections for the Nintendo Switch

    A big part of the Nintendo Switch’s appeal is its extremely deep library, which includes more than just the latest games. Retro game buffs, or those who want to learn more about the best games of yesteryear, are well served by the Nintendo Switch thanks to a plethora of collections available the system. Retro game collections are a bundle of several titles from the same series or franchise on a single cartridge. Having a few retro game collections in your Switch library will help you relive some of gaming’s previous glory days on a modern system.

    Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection

    Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection

    Capcom

    SEE IT

    Mega Man’s Battle Network Legacy Collection is a one-stop-shop of playing the first six games in the series, which were all released on the Game Boy Advance in the early to mid 2000s. Unlike traditional Mega Man games, the Battle Network series is more than an average platformer. Battles take place on a grid system, and incorporate strategy and light RPG elements. Outside of battle, you’ll control a character who can walk around freely, advance the story, and “jack in” to computer terminals computers to engage in battles. Fans of the original Mega Man series shouldn’t expect more of the same from this game, but the Battle Network Legacy Collection lets players experience one of the franchise’s most successful spin off series.

    Sonic Origins Plus

    Sonic Origins

    Sega of America

    SEE IT

    Sega has replackaged early titles in the Sonic The Hedgehog series a number of times, but Origins Plus is a worthwhile pickup even if you have an earlier collection. This collection contains the first four Sonic The Hedgehog games and allows you to play them in their original 4:3 aspect ratio or newly remastered in widescreen. Quality of life improvements from earlier collections—like the ability to spin dash in the original entry—are present. Additionally, Sega has included new modes and the option to play as different characters in the original games. We’re grateful Sega allows you to switch between the original and remastered versions of these games for the sake of preserving the classics while tastefully modernizing them, too.

    Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remaster Collection

    Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remaster Collection

    Square Enix

    SEE IT

    The first six Final Fantasy games are responsible for keeping Squaresoft (now Square-Enix) afloat and popularizing JRPGs the world over, and they’re essential for fans of the genre. The Pixel Remaster collection features these games with easier-to-read text, updated translations, and tweaked visuals. These games retain their pixelated iconic look, but sport a widescreen aspect ratio. Other quality of life improvements, like the ability to fast-forward through battles makes level grinding a lot more manageable. Gamers returning to these games for the first time in 30 years will feel immediately at home playing these titles, while those who’re new to the franchise won’t feel lost. This collection wasn’t available on the Nintendo Switch for a long time, but we’re very pleased it’s finally come.

    Collection of Mana

    Collection of Mana

    Square Enix

    SEE IT

    The Collection of Mana is another important game for fans of JRPGs who want to bone up on some classics. This collection contains Secret of Mana, Final Fantasy: Legend, and crucially Trials of Mana. That final title went unreleased in the United States for over 20 years, but is finally accessible through this game—it was also remastered as a standalone title a few years later. These games are well-loved because of their action RPG mechanics, charming stories, graphics, and in some cases local multiplayer. If you find turn-based role playing games boring, or want to find the missing links between Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, you’ll find it here.

    The post The best Nintendo Switch games of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Nintendo Switch OLED review: Putting portable first https://www.popsci.com/reviews/nintendo-switch-oled-console/ Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:01:44 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=377322
    Nintendo Switch OLED
    The Nintendo Switch OLED, a revision of the company's current console, has a brighter, more vivid display. Mike Epstein

    The Nintendo Switch OLED’s bright, beautiful screen will make you want to hold it close and stare at it instead of your TV.

    The post Nintendo Switch OLED review: Putting portable first appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Nintendo Switch OLED
    The Nintendo Switch OLED, a revision of the company's current console, has a brighter, more vivid display. Mike Epstein

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    The Nintendo Switch OLED isn’t a new console, per se. It is what industry observers call a “mid-cycle refresh”—a new version of an existing console with some minor changes and upgrades, but nothing so drastic that it would change what games it can play. Almost every console of the past few generations has had at least one (PS4 Pro, Xbox One X, etc). In fact, Nintendo already “refreshed” the Switch once in 2019 with a model that improved its battery life. Sometimes the manufacturers make a big deal out of it. Sometimes they don’t. 

    In this case, Nintendo didn’t have a choice: Fans made a big deal out of it thanks to rumors about its capabilities prior to Nintendo announcing the product. As I mentioned in my first look at the console, the Switch OLED doesn’t reflect those rumors. It is very much the same Switch as ever. The main change comes in the form of a larger OLED display, which can show more vivid colors and sharper contrast. It also rectifies a couple of the console’s most glaring weaknesses: its built-in kickstand and the lack of an Ethernet port on the TV dock. So the Switch OLED is an upgrade, but a minor one. It doesn’t play any new games. Some games look better, but only in handheld mode, and the Switch’s technical performance remains unchanged. Except that, on a philosophical level, it’s actually a major paradigm shift. 

    That bigger, sharper screen makes Switch games look better than on most TVs for gaming. That firmly pushes the Switch, a hybrid system that you can play as a handheld device or as a “home console” on a TV, toward being a portable device by default. Depending on the person, that may seem obvious or it might come as a surprise. Either way, the hardware doesn’t lie. The Nintendo Switch OLED is an upgrade that puts handheld fans first.

    Nintendo Switch OLED

    Mike Epstein

    SEE IT

    The Nintendo Switch OLED’s screen

    So much of what makes the Nintendo Switch exciting emanates from its bigger, sharper screen. The Switch OLED has a 7-inch display, up from 6.2 inches on the original Switch. Meanwhile, the console itself measures 4 by 9.5 by 0.55 inches (HWD), almost identical to the original device. (The original Switch is 0.1 inches narrower.) 

    How does that work? As with the Apple Watch Series 7, Nintendo “created” real estate for the expanded screen by reducing the size of the bezel around it. Reducing the bezel not only allows Nintendo to maintain the form factor; Reducing the bezel makes the screen feel substantially larger, especially if you’re used to the screen on the original Switch. With only a small amount of dead space around the actual display, it is easy to feel sucked in by Switch games in handheld mode.

    Nintendo Switch OLED
    The Nintendo Switch OLED is just a smidge wider than the original Switch. Mike Epstein

    Though the bigger screen does wonders, it’s the actual OLED display that’s the star. Organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, is a screen technology in modern TVs and smartphones that allows each pixel on the screen to provide its own backlight. The individual pixels can turn off when necessary, allowing for deeper blacks and stronger color contrast, which leads to sharper lines and more vivid colors. 

    Large, bright swaths of color appear bolder and brighter on the Switch OLED. In games like Super Mario Odyssey, the red of Mario’s outfit looks more saturated and intensely red than it did the original Switch or on a 1080p TV. OLEDs are most frequently praised for their dark tones, and the Switch OLED lives up to that standard. In games like Metroid Dread and Luigi’s Mansion 3, which both feature lots of low-light situations, the OLEDs generate a range of darkness and light surpassed only by TVs with high-dynamic range (HDR), a technology that enhances a screen’s ability to dynamically brighten or darken specific points.

    Nintendo Switch OLED
    Metroid Dread, which launched the same day as the Switch OLED, is one of the best examples of the screen’s new capabilities. Mike Epstein

    While I find the extremely bright colors thrilling, Nintendo does give you the ability to reduce the vibrance of the colors in settings. By default, the console is set to “vivid” mode and you can change the screen to “normal,” which replicates the original Switch’s brightness and color depth.

    What about in docked mode?

    Playing the Switch in docked mode is virtually unchanged on the Switch OLED. The new screen doesn’t impact how Switch games look on your TV. The console’s performance—framerate, load times, etc.—has not changed at all, either, so the games run as smoothly as ever in both docked and handheld mode.

    Nintendo Switch OLED
    The Nintendo Switch OLED dock was also changed in small, but helpful ways. Mike Epstein

    That said, once you play the Switch OLED in handheld mode, you may see the docked version in a new light. Despite the fact that Switch games run at a higher resolution when docked—1080p in docked mode versus 720p in handheld—many Switch games are more visually appealing on the Switch OLED screen than on a TV. Certain games, including Metroid Dread, look a bit washed out on a TV, compared to the dense, intense colors of the OLED’s handheld screen. Again, without equal enhancements to handheld and docked modes, there’s a decided emphasis on handheld play. Does that mean you should avoid the Switch OLED if you like playing in docked mode? Absolutely not. But it means that docked-first players might find their habits changing when they see the OLED screen.

    What else is new?

    Beyond the screen, the Switch OLED offers a few small, but useful hardware upgrades. Internal storage has doubled to 64GB versus 32GB on the standard Switch. It’s a big jump, but 64GB is still a very low amount of storage when Switch games can require upwards of 30GB apiece. You can still enhance the console’s storage with a microSD card, of course. 

    The slot for said microSD card is slightly more exposed than before because it’s under the much larger, more useful Switch OLED kickstand. The original Switch’s kickstand was arguably the console’s worst feature: A narrow strip of plastic, it could barely hold the console’s weight, snapped easily, and tipped over constantly. The new kickstand panel is roughly half the console’s height and spans its entire width. Though the hinge feels a bit stiff, it’s easily adjustable and, above all, sturdy. You can now use the console in “tabletop” mode, which is also a much more appealing option because of the enhanced screen.

    Nintendo Switch OLED
    The Nintendo Switch OLED’s improved kickstand makes a world of difference if you want to play in “tabletop mode.” Mike Epstein

    While the picture didn’t get a boost in docked mode, the dock itself got an aesthetic redesign, with rounded corners that are less likely to scratch the screen when you insert the console into it. The new dock also now features a built-in ethernet port, so you can connect the Switch to the internet via a wired connection. (There’s an Ethernet adapter for the original Switch dock.)

    As a result of all the changes to the handheld design, the Switch OLED is slightly heavier than the standard model—approximately .93 pounds, versus .88 on the original Switch. While heavier is never better in a handheld, I can’t say that I noticed a tangible difference.

    The more things change, the more things stay the same

    As a reminder, the Nintendo Switch OLED is not the “Switch 2” and there’s a limit to how much Nintendo can reasonably be expected to change. At the same time, the great strides made in the Switch OLED design emphasize some of its remaining flaws. Playing the Switch OLED in docked mode and finding a “flatter,” less saturated picture relative to the handheld OLED display is the most obvious example, but the Switch “tells on itself” in other ways.

    Nintendo Switch OLED
    Surprisingly, the Nintendo Switch OLED’s new screen doesn’t seem to noticeably impact the console’s battery life. Mike Epstein

    Playing the Switch more in handheld mode, you’re forced to wrestle with Nintendo’s detachable Joy-Con controllers, which don’t offer any ergonomic support for your hands and seemingly have a tendency to break over time. Relative to the much more powerful PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, the Switch’s load times also feel more disruptive than they did when we first examined the Switch five years ago. Slapping the OLED screen on the Switch is like a facelift: The games may look better, but you can still see signs of the console’s age around the edges.

    What about battery life?

    Battery life is the rare instance of a spec that hasn’t changed and seems somewhat impressive for it. According to Nintendo, the Switch OLED can achieve the same estimated 4.5-9 hours of battery life as the standard model. That bore out in my anecdotal battery tests. Prior to launch, many pundits and critics (myself included) worried that the OLED screen would negatively impact battery life. It seems that, whether or not Nintendo took steps to offset the increased power usage, you get the same amount of playtime on the new version of the console.

    So, who should buy the Nintendo Switch OLED?

    Nintendo Switch OLED
    Switch or Switch OLED? Which should you choose? Mike Epstein

    The Nintendo Switch OLED is the best version of the Switch, hands down. Even with the price going up from $300 to $350, its enhancements are more than worth the price of admission. The larger question of whether or not you should buy a Switch comes down to personal preference, especially if you’re choosing between the Switch and the PS5 or one of the new Xbox consoles, but the Switch remains a worthy console.

    The question is trickier if you own a Switch and are looking to upgrade. On the one hand, the Switch OLED makes most games look better in handheld mode, to the point where I’m playing games that way more often. On the other hand, if you aren’t precious about visual fidelity, it’s ultimately the same device. If you’re committed to playing in docked mode, or just don’t feel a strong urge to upgrade, I’d say you should trust that instinct.

    The post Nintendo Switch OLED review: Putting portable first appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Best Switch games for kids in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-switch-games-for-kids/ Wed, 30 Jun 2021 17:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=376190
    best nintendo switch games
    Unsplash, Kelly Sikkema

    Multiplatform kid-friendly franchises and exclusive experiences populate the vivid landscape of the best Switch games for kids.

    The post Best Switch games for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    best nintendo switch games
    Unsplash, Kelly Sikkema

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    BUST UP YOUR BUDDIES Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the best Nintendo Switch game for killing time in line with friends. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
    		SEE IT

    The ruler of party brawlers is also the king of killing time, assuming you have some friends with you and some extra controllers.
    PLAY, DIE, REPEAT Hades is the best Nintendo Switch game for the backseat for a few hours. Hades
    		SEE IT

    The roguelike indie darling and Game of the Year 2020 winner is beautiful with an addictive reward curve.
    GOLF FORE! EVERYONE Mario Golf: Super Rush is the best Nintendo Switch game for sitting on a bench in the park. Mario Golf: Super Rush
    		SEE IT

    Speed Golf and Battle Golf really set Super Rush apart, making the game feel less like a new iteration and more like a whole new game compared to previous Mario Golf games.

    The Nintendo Entertainment System was on every kid’s wishlist in the second half of the ’80s. Super Mario Bros. dominated playground discussions. The same occurred with the Super Nintendo in the early ’90s and the Nintendo 64 in the late ’90s. But since the emergence of Sony as a gaming powerhouse in that same decade, and Microsoft later in the 2000s, kids’ attention has been divided. While all platforms have a variety of games appropriate for a variety of ages and kid interests, Nintendo’s commitment to the family audience leaves it in an enviable position when it comes to the breadth and depth of game offerings on the Nintendo Switch console, meaning that every kid—the quiet one, the wild one, the weird one, the adult one—can find something they will love playing. With that in mind, here are seven of the best Switch games for kids of all types.

    Family fun from father to small fry

    Nintendo has a reputation as a family-friendly and questionable-content-free platform. In fact, in the days of the mid-’90s video-game-violence hysteria, Nintendo published a version of notorious (and great) fighting game Mortal Kombat with all of the blood replaced by a grey “sweat” that poured out of the fighters when they were damaged. While Nintendo has relaxed its stance on mature content in games since those days, the company still tends to aim its franchises at a general audience, letting third parties publish the games with more adult themes and scenes. However, Nintendo’s in-house software being all-ages-appropriate doesn’t make it any less engaging. These classic franchises can be great for kids games and fun for adults at the same time, and many of the best games “for kids” are simply the best games out there for anyone of any age.

    Will my kid like it? Should my kid play it?

    Most likely, your child is more up on the newest games than you. They probably have a YouTuber or Twitch star they follow whose recommendations heavily influence their choices, or they watch game trailers to decide what intrigues them. As a parent, it can be hard to keep up with what games are good, and more importantly what games are appropriate. To that end, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), the video game equivalent of the film industry’s MPAA, created a rating system with both general ratings and specific content information that can help parents decide if a kids game is right for their child without said parent having to spend dozens of hours with the game themselves. In general, E (for Everybody), E10+ (Everybody 10 and older), and T (for Teen) games are usually OK for most kids.

    These are analogous to the G, PG, and PG-13 movie ratings. M (for Mature) games may feature realistic brutal violence, sex and nudity, and swearing. The ESRB website, www.esrb.org, gives specific content information on any game in its database, which is substantial, and is an excellent tool when deciding what games to purchase.

    Are there content controls I can put on my Switch? 

    Another way to ensure your child is gaming the way you’d like is to take advantage of the built-in parental controls on the Switch console. As is common with game systems these days, each player is required to make a profile to play games and store game data. Setting up a parental profile allows the option for parents to limit the games that can be played within the child’s profile, either by rating or by creating game whitelists (which excludes anything not on the list). A companion app for Android or iOS means that once you set up the controls, you don’t even need access to the Switch console to adjust those controls. If your child misbehaves and you don’t want them to play Switch games as a punishment, you can institute that from afar.

    Time limits can be set, complete with alarms so the child knows how much time they have left to play in a given day. The app displays playtime information to make sure screen time isn’t getting out of hand even without a limit, and will give you push notifications about whatever content, free or paid, is downloaded to the Switch. Lastly, parental controls allow limitations on online communication in games or sharing of game information to social media directly from the Switch console.

    Is Switch the most kid-friendly console? 

    While there are lots of great kid- and family-friendly franchises on Xbox One X/S and PlayStation 5—the latest Ratchet & Clank game springs to mind—the sheer number of appropriate franchises that Nintendo themselves produce really sets the Switch apart as the “family” console. Nearly any game with “Mario” in the title is going to be well-made and fun for the whole family. Animal Crossing is about as wholesome as gaming gets. Pokémon has enthralled kids for over 25 years and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. These games are appropriate and largely excellent, so the top kids’ games are also the best Nintendo Switch games in general. As family gaming systems go, you really can’t go wrong with the Switch. Plus, the variety of titles ensures that no matter what interests your little gamer (or the little gamer’s parents) have, the Switch can provide something engaging.

    The best Switch games for kids

    There are plenty of titles beyond these seven that will engage kids, but these are the surest of the sure shots. Each one a hit, each one with stellar reviews. The gameplay experiences are deeper and more varied than those offered by mobile and tablet games, and often require a higher level of skill to perform well. While kids love the feedback loop of victory, it’s also important that games challenge them to teach them how to improvise and improve strategies. Each listing includes the ESRB rating so that you can get an idea of the type of content your tyke, tween, or teen will encounter.

    Best Nintendo Switch games for kids who are LEGO fanatics: Minecraft (E10+)

    Minecraft the best nintendo switch game for kids

    Minecraft

    SEE IT

    There’s truly no game that compares to Minecraft. Essentially a first-person building game, Minecraft has evolved over 12 years to feature tons of game modes and ways to play, allowing for infinite hours of replayability. The best Switch games for kids are those that engage players on multiple fronts, and Minecraft players can spend hours exploring other players’ worlds, building their own, fighting enemies in different story modes, or just noodling around with the game world’s physics. While fun, there’s also many educational elements to Minecraft that can help parents justify allowing their youngsters to devote hundreds of hours to the game.

    Minecraft is the most successful game of all time, selling over 200 million copies across dozens of platforms, and the Nintendo version has all the features a player needs, plus the portability of the Switch console. For a young gamer with a maker’s mind, you can’t go wrong with the game named “best of the 21st century” by The Guardian.

    Best Switch games for kids who love cute animals: Animal Crossing: New Horizons (E)

    Animal Crossing the best nintendo switch kids game

    Animal Crossing

    SEE IT

    Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the latest game in a series where, basically, the player does favors for cute little animals wearing cute little clothes in a cute little world where they have a cute little house that they can decorate in cute little ways. Did I mention that this game is cute and little? Well, it is. Animal Crossing’s characters are not just visually adorable, but their personalities, teased out by daily interactions, are delightful and frequently produce laugh-out-loud moments. The game is charming, stress-free, and features both simultaneous and asynchronous multiplayer elements that allow gamers to share their little cuties with others.

    A game that can be played for 20 minutes a day for the rest of your life if you so desire, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is also a wonderful game for early readers who may not be able to understand all the text in Zelda or kids without the Twitch-gaming skills to excel at platformers or racing games. But even older kids—and as Twitter shows, adults—are enchanted by Animal Crossing’s sweet aesthetic, making it one of the best Switch games for kids.

    Best Nintendo Switch games kids who are obsessive collectors: Pokémon Sword & Shield (E)

    pokemon sword and shield nintendo switch kids games

    Pokemon

    SEE IT

    If you were born since 1980, I probably don’t have to tell you what Pokémon is, because it’s been a huge part of childhood for every Millennial and Gen Z kid. Even without playing the games, it would take living in a cave to have avoided the toys, movies, television shows, and general ubiquity of Pokémon mascot Pikachu within popular culture. While popularity doesn’t always mean quality, there’s a reason Pokémon has been consistently popular. The pleasure loop of catching new Pokémon, training them to be strong, and using their strength to catch even more new Pokémon works on even the most jaded gamer. Many players’ first RPG (role-playing game), Pokémon has a new “generation” every four to five years, adding more monsters and gameplay quirks.

    Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, technically two different titles but sharing 90 percent of the same game, offer a fully 3D world to explore (a relatively new development for the series), along with downloadable side adventures. As the main line Pokémon titles, Sword and Shield are likely to continue receiving updates and downloadable content into the future.

    Best for kids who are board game geeks: Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics (E)

    Clubhouse best nintendo switch kids games

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Stuffing an entire closet’s worth of board games onto a video game cart, Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics features some of the most recognizable games in history like chess and dominoes; other lesser-known true gems like Reversi (née Othello) and mancala; and quirky digital versions of slot cars and fishing pond games. Featuring 51 games in total, as the title clearly indicates, Clubhouse Games features tutorials for all its games, CPU opponents with adjustable difficulty, and multiplayer, both local and online. While most of these games play exactly the way you’d expect, some surprise.

    One of the cooler features is in the slot cars game, where if there are multiple Switch systems connected, the Switch screens can be laid end-to-end in different combinations to create different track designs. Being a Nintendo-produced title, Clubhouse Games offers some great Japanese games, like hanafuda, a card game with a unique deck. Nintendo, as a company, started in the hanafuda card printing business in 1889, nearly 100 years before it became a computer game powerhouse. Clubhouse Games is an excellent way to declutter the closet, and you’ll never lose a piece from the box!

    Best Switch games for kids who love watching Twitch streams: Fortnite (T)

    Fortnite the best nintedo switch game for kids

    Fortnite

    SEE IT

    Fortnite was released in 2017 as two distinct game modes featuring the same base gameplay. One was a four-player tower-defense shooting game in which players worked together to fend off enemies from their base. While that version was moderately popular, Fortnite Battle Royale was the true star, busting out in a big way and giving everyone Fortnite fever. Up to 100 players compete until only one is left standing. The mode became one of the most popular games for viewers of Twitch, the Amazon-owned gaming-and-more streaming platform. Available for free, Fortnite has, in the four years since, offered tons of ways to spend money, including a monthly battle pass that gives players boosted rewards for playing the game.

    As with most free-to-play games—the most popular monetization model for mobile games—it’s important to set spending limits to avoid having a “free” title become the most expensive game you buy. Even without spending money, Fortnite offers a lot of replayability and social gaming opportunities, and it’s likely your kid has some friends who are already experts that he or she wants to play with. Assuming you put parental controls on spending in the game, Fortnite is an auto-download. Can’t get cheaper than free for one of the best Switch games for kids!

    Best for older kids who are fantasy fans: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (E10+)

    The Legend of Zelda is best nintendo switch game for kids

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Few Switch games have been lauded like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. As a series, Zelda is often lavished with praise, and Breath of the Wild seems to be everyone’s favorite since all-timer Ocarina of Time on Nintendo 64. Featuring a huge world map with tons of items to collection, characters to meet, and enemies to defeat, Breath of the Wild also features impressive verticality. Nearly every surface in the game can be scaled, giving even more space for players to discover. Zelda can be a bit complicated and difficult for younger gamers, so this one is better for teenagers, especially for older kids who love swords and sorcery. If your kid loves Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter, there will be a lot in the narrative and aesthetics for them to glom onto.

    It’s dangerous to go alone: take The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild with you. It will fill the hours with spin attacks, horse rides, and hookshots, making Zelda one of the best Switch games for all ages and all time.

    Best games for families to play together: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (E)

    mario kart 8 best nintendo switch game for kids

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is all about family, because everyone can easily pick up and play the game. The latest in one of Nintendo’s dozen-or-so classic franchises, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the updated Switch version of Wii U’s Mario Kart 8. Available nearly from the launch of the system, Kart 8 continues to sell at a brisk pace because of its pick-up-and-play accessibility and enjoyable variety of competitive modes. Traditional race-to-the-finish is available, with courses inspired not just by the worlds and characters of the Mario franchise, but other loved Nintendo titles like The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, and even Excitebike. The real appeal of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is multiplayer, and while there are other multiplayer-focused family options like Super Mario Party, none of them can produce the excitement and competition of a good session of Kart.

    Lots of different control options are available, from single-JoyCon motion controls to the separately purchased Pro Controller, letting every member of the family play the way they want. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the perfect family game to start fights (because of that damnable blue shell) and to finish them (loser does the dishes). Race out to get this one.

    FAQs

    Q: Can a 5-year-old play Nintendo Switch?

    Yes, a 5-year-old can play Nintendo Switch, but some games are going to be too complicated, require too much dexterity, or have too much dense text for a 5-year-old to enjoy. In general, avoid games that require fast reflexes like platformers or shooters, games with complicated narratives like RPGs, and, of course, watch out for inappropriate content. However, something like Clubhouse Games or Animal Crossing is perfectly palatable for an anklebiter, assuming their attention span and reading skills are up to snuff.

    Q: What are the best Nintendo Switch games for a 7-year-old?

    As kids get into elementary school, they’ll probably be exposed in one way or another to Pokémon, and may beg to play. While fully recommendable by age 9 or 10, 1st graders with patience and reading skills can definitely start to dip their toes into the Pokémon world, making it one of the best Nintendo Switch games for a 7-year-old. However, the newest Pokémon games tend to have more complicated battle and evolution systems, so the remakes of previous Pokémon games (Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! And Pokémon: Let’s Go, Evee!) may be the best choice. These are updated versions of simpler, 1998-era Pokémon games that are more suited for a child’s first entry into the series.

    Q: What are the best Nintendo Switch games for a 9-year-old?

    Kids in the second half of elementary school likely have the skills to start enjoying more complicated narratives and game systems. If they show interest, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild might be top of the heap of the best Nintendo Switch games for a 9-year-old. While it is rated E10+, the violence is largely bloodless and there is no swearing or sexual content to worry about. The game might be intimidating for some, but will definitely engross others. If Zelda seems like too much, Super Mario Odyssey is a good alternative. Almost as widely lauded as Breath of the Wild, it’s slightly simpler but has some very challenging parts that will feel like an accomplishment for a 9-year-old to clear.

    The final word on shopping for the best Nintendo Switch games for kids

    Nintendo has built a ton of trust in its brand, not only for its quality but for its content avoiding any of the hard edges of “adult” gaming platforms like Xbox One S/X and PlayStation 5. Aside from the fantasy violence of Zelda or something like Fire Emblem: Three Houses being a bit much for younger kids, first-party Nintendo titles are almost always child-appropriate and worth playing. In addition to the games listed above, there’s beloved franchises like Super Smash Bros., Super Mario Party, a wide variety of Mario-centric sports titles, and Splatoon 2, an even more kid-friendly shooter than Fortnite. All are great choices when you’re looking for the best Nintendo Switch games for kids.

    Lastly, if you want your progeny to get a little bit of exercise with their gaming, Ring Fit Adventure is an exercise game that’s actually fun to play, unlike most exercise games. The depth of the Switch’s software library means not only will the system have something for every youth but it can follow them into adulthood as their interests get more specific and the types of content they can handle grow. The Switch is an excellent system for kids with some of the best video games for kids, and I’m not kid-ding about that. 

    The post Best Switch games for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         This Walmart+ exclusive sales event includes PS5 and Xbox Series X https://www.popsci.com/reviews/walmart-exclusive-sale/ Thu, 24 Feb 2022 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=427057
    Walmart sale products collage

    Score impressive discounts of up to 40% with a Walmart+ membership.

    The post This Walmart+ exclusive sales event includes PS5 and Xbox Series X appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Walmart sale products collage

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    We’re always in search of the best online bargains, so when a special shopping event provides exclusive access to some of the most sought-after products this spring season, we didn’t want to miss out. The sales begin on Thursday, Feb. 24 at 12 pm ET and Walmart+ members can save up to 40 percent on a range of products, from electronics and gaming consoles to fitness and home gear. Members will also get exclusive access to Walmart’s restock of PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S consoles. They will still cost retail price, but only Walmart+ members will have access to the inventory so it should drastically increase your chances of landing one before stock runs out.

    If you’re not already a member, now is an amazing time to join the club. In addition to early access sales like this, Walmart+ membership also includes free delivery, free shipping with no order minimum, savings on routine purchases like prescriptions and gas, plus exclusive promotions, product releases, and events. Rather than hunting down sporadic deals, opt for a membership and save whether you’re pulling up to the pump or ordering online. Membership is only $98 per year, or $12.95 per month if you prefer to pay in installments.

    Hoover Air Steerable Upright Vacuum Cleaner $89 (Was $190) 

    Hoover Air Steerable Upright Vacuum on a white background

    Hoover

    SEE IT

    This steerable lightweight vacuum can make cleaning the house a breeze with features like WindTunnel 3 Technology that digs out embedded dirt and debris, a HEPA filter to capture 99 percent of particles, a multifunction brush roll, and an easy-to-clean filter. Weighing in at just 14 pounds, you don’t need to worry about lugging around a hefty vacuum when it comes time to do chores—this pick is effortless to maneuver around even tight spaces, furniture, and corners for an overall deeper clean.

    SAMSUNG 58-inch Class 4K Crystal UHD (2160P) LED Smart TV with HDR $478 (Was $600)

    Samsung Crystal UHD TV on a white background

    Samsung

    SEE IT

    Upgrade your entertainment center with this Crystal UHD Smart TV from Samsung. With a 4K crystal processor, you’ll see every image in stunning quality and HDR color. The Crystal UHD is also equipped with Smart TV controls and a universal guide, which helps to streamline your viewing experience, from tuning in to live shows to streaming your favorite Netflix series.

    NordicTrack Studio Bike 1000 with 10-inch Touchscreen $800 (Was $1,200)

    NordicTrack Studio Bike on a white background

    NordicTrack

    SEE IT

    Elevate your at-home fitness routine with the aid of this Studio Bike, which is discounted by $400 for a limited time with a Walmart+ membership. This high-tech workout gear has 22 levels of automatic resistance to continually challenge you, along with top personal trainers, studio classes, and personalized workouts available through iFIT. With included dumbbells, a variety of seat adjustments, racing pedals with toe clips, and Bluetooth headphone connectivity, you can tailor your workout to your unique needs, whether that be adding in an upper body workout or blasting your favorite tracks on repeat.

    More deals to browse:

    HART 215-Piece Mechanics Tool Set $98 (Was $180) 

    10L Chefman Multifunction Air Fryer $79 (Was $130) 

    Igloo 56-can Reactor Soft Sided Cooler $44 (Was $126) 

    Lenovo 15.6-inch IdeaPad 3 $399 (Was $700)  

    iRobot Roomba 670 Robot Vacuum-Wi-Fi Connectivity $180 (Was $275)

    Real Relax Massage Chair, Full Body Recliner with Zero Gravity $900 (Was $1,290)

    See all Walmart+ exclusive sales.

    The post This Walmart+ exclusive sales event includes PS5 and Xbox Series X appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Analogue Pocket Review: History in your hands https://www.popsci.com/reviews/analogue-pocket-review/ Wed, 15 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=415385
    Analogue Pocket Review
    The Analogue Pocket looks like a Game Boy, because it's designed to Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games. Mike Epstein

    The Analogue Pocket is a vessel for your reverence of Game Boys, Game Gear, and old-school handhelds.

    The post Analogue Pocket Review: History in your hands appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Analogue Pocket Review
    The Analogue Pocket looks like a Game Boy, because it's designed to Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games. Mike Epstein

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    How far would you go to recreate the feeling you got playing video games as a child? Based on the general love and admiration for Analogue, a company that makes sleek new consoles for playing old games, there are a lot of us who would pay handsomely for the chance. The company’s newest device, the Analogue Pocket, finally extends that deeply detailed love to the early portable consoles of the 1990s and 2000s. It plays Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance cartridges out of the box. An optional adapter allows it to play Game Gear carts and, in time, the Atari Lynx and Neo Geo Pocket Color.

    Like Analogue’s Super NT and Mega SG, which play Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis games, respectively, the Analogue Pocket offers a masterful adaptation of old-school technology adapted with and, in many ways, enhanced by modern design sensibilities. The $220 retro console goes to great lengths to let you recreate the experience of playing Game Boy games on a Game Boy-like device. At the same time, it introduces new luxuries, including save states, modern display settings, and the ability to play on a modern TV using the optional dock. It’s an extremely impressive piece of equipment. It can also be used to make music—and is easily the best device way to play the portable games of generations past, whether you display your collection prominently or have it stashed in a basement or closet.

    Analogue Pocket handheld game console.

    Mike Epstein

    SEE IT

    Is the Analogue Pocket a Game Boy?

    The Analogue Pocket evokes the original Game Boy, without trying to imitate it. Measuring 3.5 by 0.88 by 5.84 inches (WDH), it’s smaller than the actual Game Boy, closer to the size of the Game Boy Color, but the overall design is similar. The rectangular plastic console body has the same rounded bottom corners and sharp top corners as the original. Its 3.5-inch 1660 x 1440p LCD display has the same thick bezel. When you play it, you really feel like you’re holding a Game Boy from the ‘90s.

    Between the fact that it supports a wide array of consoles and a host of new features, it isn’t actually identical. The Analogue Pocket has the full input set for the Game Boy Advance, including four face buttons, a four-way D-pad, and two triggers. The front also has a trio of system-level buttons, the classic start and select buttons, plus a logo-laden home button. On the side, you have a two-part rocker for controlling volume, plus a power button.

    Analogue Pocket buttons
    The Analogue Pocket has all the buttons you need to play games from many old-school handheld consoles. Mike Epstein

    There are also more ports than you might expect. On the back, of course, you have a wide, open cartridge slot—It’s larger than you might remember if you haven’t touched an old handheld in a while. On the sides, you have a pair of very noticeable speakers, as well as a MicroSD card slot, which you’ll need to install software updates. (Installing firmware this way is time-consuming but Analogue plans to make it possible to update the console via USB in the future.) On the bottom, there’s a USB-C port for charging, a 3.5mm analog headphone, and, amazingly, a classic Game Boy Link Cable port, allowing you to play multiplayer Game Boy games the old-fashioned way.

    What makes the Analogue Pocket so special, then?

    Super Mario Land game on handheld game console.
    Super Mario Land in its original, green glory. Mike Epstein

    There are many emulator boxes that will let you “dump” a game from your old game cartridges and play them using an emulator on a TV. (There are also plenty of ways to get retro game ROMs and an emulator program to play said games on your computer or an Android device.) Emulators have their disadvantages, though: They can change the way things look in subtle ways. Emulators can simulate playing a game the old way, but they don’t “recreate” it.

    Analogue achieves a higher level of technical accuracy through a computer chip called a field-programmed gate array, or FPGA, which can be configured and reconfigured after its manufacture. For the Analogue Pocket, as well as Analogue’s previous retro-facing consoles, the chip is used to reproduce the hardware inside old game consoles at the hardware level, rather than using a piece of emulation software to make old game files compatible with new machines.

    For game preservationists, for the deeply nostalgic, and, yes, eccentric perfectionists, the FPGA gets you “closer to the metal.” It is, realistically, the closest you can get to a perfect recreation of playing these games on the original hardware without buying the old consoles, which can be hard to find in working condition. As someone with a childhood filled with old games, there’s comfort in knowing that there will still be ways to keep playing these cartridges after all of those machines eventually die.

    Okay … but it works just like a Game Boy, right?

    More or less. For the three consoles it supports by default, you simply plug the cartridge in, same as the original systems. When you turn the Analogue Pocket on, it brings you to a home screen in AnalogueOS, a bespoke operating system where you can choose to play the inserted cart, run a compatible game on an SD card, or adjust settings. You can set the console to boot up the cart when it turns on, though, to more accurately recreate the Game Boy experience.

    Once you turn on a game, it plays just like it would have on the original hardware. All the games I tried across the Game Boy lineage played perfectly, without noticeable input lag or any visual issues. (A pro tip, should you choose to buy one: Make sure to clean your cartridges before playing if they’ve been in storage. The console seems fairly sensitive to dust and some of my games drew AnalogueOS system error screens on boot up until after they’d been cleaned.)

    Nintendo Game boy cartridge
    Plug your cartridges into the Pocket, just like you would an old-school handheld. Mike Epstein

    There are a few extra little quality-of-life features you can access, like the ability to create a save state or put the console in sleep mode so you can stop playing without losing your place. This is a standard feature for emulators and other retro machines at this point, but it’s worth noting because it dramatically changes how you interface the console and its games. In a smartphone-enabled world, restarting a game from scratch every time you turn the machine on would be insufferable for most people.

    For preservationists and historically curious, the Analogue features sound and display settings, which replicate how games would look on different versions of various consoles. For example, when playing a Game Boy Advance game, you can use the default display, a display that replicates the picture from the original Game Boy Advance’s LCD display, or a version that replicates the brighter, backlit screen from the Game Boy Advance SP. Likewise, you have the option to play the original audio or allow the console to “enhance” it. The console’s “enhanced” audio varies much more from game to game than the modernized “default” display setting, which generally looks brighter and sharper than the retro reproduction modes. In a few cases, the audio sounds slightly cleaner. In others, you can’t really hear a difference.

    • Analogue Pocket Review
      Analogue Pocket: Default Game Boy Advance display mode
    • Analogue Pocket Review
      Analogue Pocket: Original GBA display mode
    • Analogue Pocket Review
      Analogue Pocket: GBA SP display mode
    The Analogue Pocket can replicate how games would look on different versions of each console generation.

    Battery life is a slight weak point for the Pocket, at least on paper. According to Analogue, you should expect to get “over 6 hours” of gameplay time on a single charge under optimal conditions. In practice, I found it lasted somewhere in the neighborhood of 4-7 hours on a charge, though those numbers can be deceiving, depending on whether you play for long stretches or short bursts.

    And there’s more to come

    Analogue also has larger plans for AnalogueOS, the operating system at the heart of the Pocket. There are a few features the company promised and are on its roadmap, but aren’t available yet. First and foremost, a reference tool called the “Library” will offer a Wiki database of information about the games that the console’s designed to play. You will also have the ability to create your own custom catalog of your games, as well as playlists of games you like.

    Analogue has also committed to some technical improvements, including the aforementioned ability to update the console’s firmware via USB or the optional Analog Pocket Dock.

    Analogue Pocket accessories

    If there’s one flaw to the Analogue Pocket, it’s the fact that you need to buy a fair number of optional accessories to get the complete experience. First and foremost, there are the adapters: In addition to playing the first three Nintendo handheld consoles—Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance—the Pocket can run Sega Game Gear, TurboGrafx-16 Atari Lynx, and Neo Geo Pocket Color games, but only with special adapters that cost $29.99 per console. There are also Pocket-to-MIDI cables to support the console’s music production features; these cost $19.99 per cable. It makes sense that these niche peripherals aren’t included in the core package, but they heap a lot of extra cost on top of an already-expensive device, especially for those who primarily care about the optional, adapter-enabled console libraries.

    There is one peripheral, though, that probably should have come with the console. The Analogue Pocket Dock is a charging cradle and hub that allows you to connect the portable console to a modern TV to play in 1080p via HDMI. It also allows you to connect both wired and wireless controllers via USB and Bluetooth, respectively. (It will also, eventually, be the easiest way to update the console.) On its own, the dock costs $99.99, nearly half the price of the console itself.

    Analogue Pocket dock
    The Analogue Pocket Dock lets you plug the console into a TV and use a controller, but costs an extra $100. Mike Epstein

    You could argue that the dock is gravy: None of these consoles could dock to a TV or monitor, so why should that come standard? But, given the console’s preservationist mission and the need to interface with a PC, it feels like a disservice to tell people that these aspects of the device are optional. The dock enables the ability to stream your games, arguably a necessity for modern consoles. It also gives you the ability to easily get up close and personal with these games on a larger screen, another basic amenity of many other cartridge- and ROM-based emulators. The dock is carefully constructed; worth the money if you’re inclined to buy it. But It seems a shame that there will be users who don’t get to indulge in those aspects of the experience.

    What else does the Analogue Pocket do?

    In addition to playing cartridges, the Analogue Pocket has two features that facilitate niche cultural pursuits. First, in addition to playing cartridges, the Analogue SP can play new independent games made to run on it using a free game development tool called GB Studio. You can download those games on a PC and transfer them to the console using a MicroSD card. This opens the door to play new, amateur-made games, which is very neat. But, more importantly, it opens the door for people to make games and play them on a game console, which I think (or at least hope) could be an eye-opening experience for aspiring designers.

    Nanoloop, synthesizer app
    Nanoloop, a synthesizer app on the Pocket, lets you create music. Mike Epstein

    Second, the Pocket features a synthesizer and sequencer app called Nanoloop, which allows you to create and record music. Using optional Pocket-to-MIDi cables, you can connect the console to a keyboard, MIDI controller, or another device to make beats or samples for larger audio projects.

    With very little electronic music-making experience of my own, I’m not going to speak much to Nanoloop’s utility. Personally, I found the basic system for laying down notes to be very intuitive … up until the point where you want to play multiple kinds of sounds. Then the Game Boy interface seems to complicate things.

    So, who should buy the Analogue Pocket?

    Analogue Pocket on table
    The Analogue Pocket is a huge get for retro collectors and enthusiasts. Mike Epstein

    At $220, the Analogue Pocket system is among the most expensive devices out there for playing the portable games it supports, but it is undoubtedly the best. It’s sleek, works well, and features modern conveniences that make the experience of playing retro games less temperamental than using a 30-year-old Game Boy. And for preservationists who, like audiophiles, crave the most precise replication of the original gaming experience possible, the Analogue will get you very close to that place. Retro gaming and collecting, particularly from this era, is an expensive hobby. If you’re going to get into it, you may as well buy a console that will let you savor that playtime as much as possible.

    The post Analogue Pocket Review: History in your hands appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Nintendo Switch vs. Lite: Which of Nintendo’s handheld gaming consoles should you buy? https://www.popsci.com/reviews/nintendo-switch-vs-lite/ Mon, 06 Dec 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=372890
    switch vs switch lite comparison
    Nintendo

    If you’re looking to pick up a new portable system, the only debate is Nintendo Switch vs. Switch Lite.

    The post Nintendo Switch vs. Lite: Which of Nintendo’s handheld gaming consoles should you buy? appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    switch vs switch lite comparison
    Nintendo

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    With the discontinuation of the PlayStation Vita in 2019 and its own 3DS in 2020, Nintendo’s Switch line of consoles became the only truly portable console on the market. While mobile games are currently thriving on smartphones and tablets, iOS and Android can only capture a fraction of the experience offered by Nintendo’s Switch. Classic, well-known game series like Super Mario Bros. and Mario Kart have mobile versions, but the options, pay structure, and smoothness of gameplay leave a lot to be desired for many gamers. Players looking for games with deep, Day-One content and dozens of hours of gameplay don’t consider the mobile vs. Switch debate, but rather the Nintendo Switch vs. Lite debate.

    Full featured nintendo switch review Nintendo Switch
    		SEE IT

    Nintendo’s flagship console can plug into a TV for big-screen gaming.
    Liter lift Nintendo Switch Lite Nintendo Switch Lite
    		SEE IT

    This handheld console offers a cheaper price, but limits play to the 5.5-inch screen.

    Wait, Nintendo introduced two versions of the same console?

    Nintendo Switch initially debuted way back in 2017. The Switch’s versatility sets its hardware apart from typical home-bound consoles like the Xbox Series X and the PS5. Plugged into a TV, the Switch acts like a typical gaming machine. Snap the JoyCon controllers onto the 6.2-inch LCD screen, however, and you can take the full Switch gaming experience out into the world. . Dozens of reskins of the base Nintendo Switch, focusing solely on aesthetics, emerged, but no hardware iterations appeared until the Nintendo Switch Lite was released in late 2019. The Lite is a pared-down Switch but with a 33-percent lower retail price and a slightly smaller 5.5-inch screen. The question for potential buyers is, of course, if what they lose is worth the $100 they save.

    The Switch Lite isn’t so much an improved Switch, as it is a refocused Switch. Some might argue that Nintendo Switch vs. Lite isn’t a necessary debate, as they are for slightly different gaming populations. Ditching the versatility of the original, the Switch Lite is a single form-factor machine that can only be played as a portable system. The Switch Lite is aimed at cost-conscious casual gamers, rather than the core gaming fan. Its design skews younger, with a smaller screen and body, larger face buttons than the Switch’s JoyCon controllers, and generally more durable construction. As a result of the smaller screen and lower functionality, the Switch Lite battery life is longer than the original Switch model played in handheld mode. However, all the changes mean that the Switch Lite can only fulfill some of the functions that players desire.

    Got it. Now what makes the original Nintendo Switch special?

    The standard switch plugs into a larger television to enable gaming on the biggest screen in your house.The Switch Lite can’t do that. It’s handheld only. 

    When hooked up to a television, the Switch’s controllers slide off the screen and can slide into a plastic casing that allows them to function as a freely held controller. Additionally, these individual controller pieces, called JoyCons, have similar functions to the Wiimotes of Nintendo’s previous Wii controller, allowing for gesture-, tilt-, and point-based interactions with games. If you plan to buy Nintendo Switch games like the Just Dance series or Super Mario Party, they actually require these types of interactions to play.

    As a handheld with JoyCons attached, the Nintendo Switch dimensions measure 9.5-inches long, 4-inches tall, and 0.5-inches thick. The Nintendo Switch screen size measures 6.2-inches diagonally with a resolution of 720p (1280×720), which is starting to feel a little paltry several years after the Switch release. The whole console weighs just under 1 pound. If desired, the Switch screen can stand up, detached from the JoyCons, and function as a small monitor for play, with multiple players using JoyCon segments or additional controllers to play multiplayer.

    Nintendo Switch battery life depends on the game, with some being more taxing than others. Generally, a fully charged Nintendo Switch will play games for somewhere between 4.5 hours and 9 hours. A battery recharge takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

    OK, so what’s missing from the Switch Lite?

    First and foremost, the Lite cannot connect to a television—all play is bound to its 5.5-inch built-in screen. Because the controllers cannot be removed from the Switch Lite, games like 1-2-Switch, Just Dance and Super Mario Party are unplayable unless you wirelessly pair separately purchased JoyCons to the system. With no included kickstand and its small display, using the Switch Lite as a monitor for local multiplayer is extremely awkward compared to the more seamless experience of the Switch.

    The Switch Lite only weighs roughly 10 ounces. The overall size of the system, except for depth, is also smaller, measuring 8.2-inches long and 3.6-inches high. This makes the Switch Lite easier to hold for smaller hands.

    While the Nintendo Switch Lite battery life outperforms the original 2017 Switch model, the Nintendo Switch battery life of any Switch manufactured since late 2019 is improved as it features an updated battery with the play time listed above. The Switch Lite doesn’t quite measure up, lasting between 3 hours and 7 hours per charge, though the recharge time is 30 minutes faster than the base Switch, clocking in at only 3 hours.

    Hmmm, so does anything make the Switch Lite better than the Switch?

    There are some benefits to the Switch Lite despite the lost features. The most notable difference comes from the price. The Switch Lite retails for $200, $100 less than the Switch, which hasn’t had a price drop despite its advanced age. That $100 can purchase two big releases, or several indie games on the Switch’s online shop. 

    The Switch Lite’s smaller size makes it easier for smaller kids to play. The traditional Switch in handheld mode is one of the biggest handheld consoles of all time, and may ever feel slightly too big for some adults. 

    One of the biggest improvements of the Switch Lite is the directional pad on the left side of the screen, which replaces the left JoyCon’s directional buttons. The pad is far more responsive and comfortable than the buttons. It feels and plays like the pads from other handhelds in Nintendo’s history, such as the DS or the Game Boy Advance. Due to the single-unit construction of the Switch Lite with no removable parts, the whole machine feels much more solid and durable than the Switch, as well.

    Aside from the need for additional JoyCon controllers to play a few motion-controlled games, the Switch Lite boosts the same amazing games library, from arguable Game of the Decade for the 2010s The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to indie darlings like Hades. The fidelity of the screen is just as good, even if the screen is smaller. The online functionality is unchanged, offering not only game downloads and online play (through WiFi) but also some entertainment and streaming apps like Netflix or YouTube.

    I’m still not sure. Is the Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite right for me?

    For the vast majority of gamers, the traditional $300 Nintendo Switch is the better choice simply because of its versatility. Even if you don’t plan to play Switch much on your home television, the fact that you can is paramount. Tabletop mode, with the Switch screen acting as a small monitor, is more useful than you would think if you’re interested in games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. 

    The local multiplayer experience on a Switch Lite is demonstrably worse unless every player has their own console. Additionally, you don’t need to purchase an additional set of JoyCons, which would set you back $80, if you want to play motion-controlled titles. That purchase alone would nearly eat up the $100 savings that the Lite offers.

    The one situation in which the Switch Lite is a clear-cut winner is if you are purchasing one to be used by a child or preteen. The smaller Switch Lite will fit their hands better, they may or may not have access to a television to play the Switch in their room (which is likely going to be their most common play space). The Switch Lite is slightly easier to pack and play on long car trips in the back seat, and if they’re prone to treat their belongings roughly, the Switch Lite is a bit more durable or, in the event of a disaster, cheaper to replace. Overall, the Switch console is an excellent gaming machine with a great library of titles. It has games for every age and predilection. But for most people, when it comes to the difference between Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite, the lost elements simply aren’t worth the $100. Nine times out of 10, the traditional Switch will be the right choice. However, regardless of your choice in the great Nintendo Switch vs. Lite debate, you’ll enjoy the heck out of the machine.

    Related: Click here for the best Nintendo Switch games

    The post Nintendo Switch vs. Lite: Which of Nintendo’s handheld gaming consoles should you buy? appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Black Friday gaming deals: Xbox Series X, PS5, Switch, and PC https://www.popsci.com/reviews/black-friday-gaming-deals/ Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:38:38 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=410848
    Black Friday gaming deals
    Best Buy

    Here are a few of the best ways to save money on great games and gaming gear this holiday season.

    The post Black Friday gaming deals: Xbox Series X, PS5, Switch, and PC appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Black Friday gaming deals
    Best Buy

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Ages ago, when I was young, video games and gaming gear rarely went on sale. The prices were the prices and that was life. These days, Black Friday sounds the horn for huge discounts on all kinds of video game-related stuff, from new(ish) games, to controllers and headsets, to gaming PCs and monitors. There are so many, in fact, that we now need to comb through them and figure out which ones are actually worth buying. Remember: A big sale and a good deal aren’t always the same thing. A crappy controller that’s 90 percent off is still a crappy controller.

    In that spirit, I’m highlighting the best Black Friday and, eventually Cyber Monday deals on games and gaming gear. The PopSci commerce team will keep this post updated as the discounts come and go over the next few weeks. As always, I’ve also put together a few tips to help you figure out how to parse the good deals from the bad on your own, so you aren’t out there shopping all alone in the digital wilderness.

    The best Black Friday video game deal – Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy — $29.99 (down from $59.99)

    There are tons of great Black Friday deals on video games this year. Many of the 2020 and 2021’s biggest hits are down to $30 or $40. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is the newest big-budget game I’ve seen with a major price cut. It doesn’t hurt that Guardians was the arguably the surprise hit of the Fall video game season, impressing critics with a captivating story that feels similar to the MCU, but has a charm all its own.

    The link at the top of this story is for the PS5 version, but Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is also available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox consoles.

    The best Black Friday gaming mouse deal — Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse — $99.99 (Down from $149.99)

    The Logitech G502 Lightspeed is one of my favorite wireless gaming mice. It’s comfortable, has tons of customizable buttons, and has an amazing wireless charging setup if you pair with Logitech’s Powerplay mouse pad. My only qualm has always been that, at $150, it’s very expensive. At a much more reasonable $99, this is one of the best PC gaming upgrades you can make.

    The best Black Friday gaming keyboard deal — Corsair K100 RGB Optical Keyboard – $179.99 (Down from $229.99)

    If you love the big gaming keyboards with tons of features and smothered in RGB, Corsair’s flagship K100 RGB opto-mechanical keyboard is an incredible pick. It has every feature a PC gamer could want, including USB passthrough, dedicated media keys, a volume roller, and customizable RGB lighting. It’s a perennial upgrade pick, but you can get it for a good price right now.

    The best Black Friday gaming headset deal — JBL Quantum One Gaming Headset – $149.99 (Down from $299.99)

    The JBL Quantum One is a truly gaming decadent headset for PC players. It’s comfortable, has special features like 3D audio and head-tracking. It even has customizable RGB lighting. These features push the Quantum One’s price to a sky-high $300, but anything’s possible on Black Friday, so now it costs only $149.99, putting it in the same price range as most mid-high tier headsets. For most PC-based headset-owners, this will be a huge upgrade.

    The best Black Friday gaming monitor deal — Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor — $999 (down from $1399).

    Monitors are an especially good thing to shop for around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holidays. They tend to be very pricey, and those prices often get cut when retailers get the proverbial red pen out to slash prices. Samsung has a large slate of monitors on heavy discount this holiday season, the most exciting of which is the Odyssey G9, a beautiful 49-inch curved ultrawide display. The 32:9 screen can output at 5120 x 1440p resolution at a 244Hz refresh rate. Curved ultrawide monitors are something of an acquired taste, they enhance the cinematic quality of games, but can be finicky in some situations. If the idea appeals to you, though, this is a very good option.

    The best Black Friday gaming PC deal — Asus ROG Zephyrus G15 gaming laptop – $1549.99 (Down from $1849.99)

    Buying a gaming PC is a really fraught purchasing decision right now. The new generation of graphics cards from Nvidia and AMD blew previous generations out of the water, and components are hard to come by. As it happens, though, one of the best gaming laptops of the year, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G15, happens to be available and on sale at a decent discount.

    The best Black Friday VR deal — HP Reverb G2 Virtual Reality Headset $449.99 (Down from $599.99)

    If you’re looking to dabble in virtual reality or, better yet, if you’ve tried an Oculus Quest 2 and want to dive down the rabbit hole head-first, the HP Reverb G2 is a passport to the wider world of VR gaming. It’s a powerful, PC-based headset that supports “4K resolution” (2160 x 2160 per eye) and a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a smooth experience. (Assuming you have a powerful gaming rig to run them). The Reverb G2 also grants you access to a wider world of VR content: It supports Microsoft’s VR store by default, but can access the SteamVR and the Oculus PC library as well. It’s an affordable way to make the jump from VR novice to hobbyist in a single step.

    More of the best Black Friday gaming deals

    New consoles in stock!

    Nintendo Switch OLED with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle – $299.99 (Best Buy)

    Xbox Series S – $299.99 (Best Buy)

    Oculus Quest 2 VR Headset (Comes with a $50 gift card) – $299.99 (Best Buy)

    Black Friday Video game deals

    Hitman III (PS5) – $34.82 (Down from $59.99)

    Deathloop (PS5 or PC) – $29.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Returnal (PS5) – $42.79 (Down from $69.99)

    Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart (PS5) – $49.94 (Down from $69.99)

    Death Stranding: Director’s Cut (PS5) – $39.82 (Down from $49.99)

    Demon’s Souls (2020) (PS5) – $39.82 (Down from $69.99)

    Tales of Arise (PS5) – $37.32 (Down from $59.99)

    Immortals: Fenix Rising (PS5, PS4) – $14.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Persona 5 Strikers (PS4) – $34.99 (Down from $59.99)

    FIFA 22 (PS5) – $35.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Madden NFL 22 (PS5) – $35.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Ultimate Edition (Xbox) – $48.00 (Down from $119.99)

    Yakuza: Like a Dragon (Xbox) – $19.99 (Down from $59.99)

    FIFA 22 (Xbox Series S/X) – $35.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Madden NFL 22 (Xbox Series S/X) – $35.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo Switch) – $35.00 (Down from $59.99)

    The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2020) (Nintendo Switch) – $39.00 (Down from $59.99)

    Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Nintendo Switch) – $35.00 (Down from $59.99)

    Astral Chain (Nintendo Switch, Digital code only) – $40.00 (Down from $59.99)

    Black Friday video game accessory and subscription deals

    PlayStation Plus 12-month subscription – $39.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Xbox Game Pass for PC3-month Subscription – $19.99 (Down from $29.99)

    Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller for Android – $44.99 (Down from $79.99)

    Razer Kishi mobile game controller for iOS – $59.99 (Down from $99.99)

    SteelSeries Apex 7 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – $136.00 (Down from $159.99)

    Anne Pro 2 60 Percent Mechanical Keyboard – $108.00 (Down from $162.00)

    Razer Viper Ultimate Wireless Gaming Mouse – $89.99 (Down from $149.99)

    HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset – $59.99 (Down from $99.99)

    Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE Gaming Headset – $169.99 (Down from $209.99)

    Razer Iskur X Gaming Chair – $299.99 (Down from $399.99)

    Elgato Game Capture HD60 S (Best for PS4, Xbox One, and Switch) – $129.99 (Down from $179.99)

    Black Friday gaming PC and gaming monitor deals

    Acer Nitro XV271 27-inch Full IPS Gaming Monitor – $299.99 (Down from $399.99)

    Dell S2721DGF 27-inch IPS QHD Gaming Monitor – $329.99 (Down from $449.99)

    LG UltraGear 32-inch LED QHD Gaming Monitor – $299.99 (Down from $399.99)

    Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G30A FHD Gaming Monitor – $229.99 (Down from $329.99)

    Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 gaming laptop – $1499.99 (Down from $1849.99)

    Dell G15 15.6” Gaming Laptop – $879.99 (Down from $1149.99)

    Asus ROG Strix GA15 G15DK Gaming Desktop – $1249.99 (Down from $1499.99)

    Things to consider when buying Black Friday gaming deals

    These are only a small, prestigious sample of the vast selection of gaming Black Friday deals that are on sale right now. Between these deals and the ones that will appear in the next few weeks, there will be an overwhelming number of offers from every retailer and manufacturer. If you plan to continue pursuing digital storefronts, keep these tips in mind.

    If you’re shopping for a console, prepare to work hard

    If you perused all the deals in this post, you’ll probably notice a few conspicuous absences — We have lots of leads for console games and accessories, but only a few, fleeting options for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or Nintendo Switch OLED consoles themselves. If you’ve spent any time shopping for the new consoles in the last year, you may know why. Video game consoles are flying off the shelves at record rates in 2021. Not only should you not expect to find them discounted, you’ll be lucky to find them in stock at all.

    If a game console is on your shopping list this year, I would strongly urge you to pick a backup gift for your holiday gathering and tell the person you’re shopping for that you hope to buy them one when you can. I have noticed in the last week that retailers have been sending out notices about having consoles in stock, so it is definitely a good time to try getting one. If you’re up for it: I’d recommend requesting alerts for your desired console with all the major retailers — Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart. Also look for newsletters like Matt Swider’s The Shortcut, and social accounts like Wario64 or Cheap Ass Gamer, which highlight availability in real time.

    That said, they are all really hot tickets this year, so don’t assume that you will be able to beat the odds.

    When shopping games, beware ‘kid in a candy store syndrome‘

    Any gamer who’s shopped the Steam Summer Sale or any console store’s holiday sale will tell you, it is very easy to buy too many video games. Most game publishers employ the same set of tricks on Black Friday, dropping the price of their games to somewhere between $20-$40 (Or less for older titles). With tons of games floating around half-off, it can be very easy to talk yourself into buying a bunch of games you don’t really want. While having a backlog of unplayed games feels luxurious, I assure you that you will feel better about your purchases if you stick to buying games you wanted before they were on sale, and spend that other money on peripherals or other gear.

    When buying a gaming PC, don’t be swayed too much by discounts

    When assessing the value of a gaming PC, you need to consider how long it will reasonably be capable of playing new AAA video games. In general, the more you spend, the more future-proof your machine will be. Black Friday disrupts the simple price-to-longevity equation with deals that create incredible value. However, I would urge PC shoppers to avoid taking a flier on a pre-built gaming rig because of a big sale. Taking $200-$300 off a machine that should cost anywhere from $1000-$5000 is rarely worth it if doing so causes you to buy a machine with compromised specs. If you do, you may find yourself looking for another PC in just 2-3 years.

    Buy early this year

    If you are actually shopping for gifts — No shame if you’re shopping for yourself! I will be too. — do not hesitate when you find something that you want. Between supply chain issues related to shipping, the semiconductor shortage, and general holiday delivery madness, you should consider holiday shopping a high priority if you hope to get your gifts delivered by Christmas. (If you’re looking for gifts to give on the first night of Hanukkah, November 28, online shopping is off the table).

    The post Black Friday gaming deals: Xbox Series X, PS5, Switch, and PC appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Xbox controller review: A wired revival https://www.popsci.com/reviews/razer-wolverine-v2-chroma/ Fri, 03 Dec 2021 20:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=413528
    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Review
    Mike Epstein

    After many years, the Wolverine Ultimate finally gets a glow up with the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma.

    The post Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Xbox controller review: A wired revival appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Review
    Mike Epstein

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Since 2017, Razer’s Wolverine Ultimate gamepad has been one of the best upgrades you can get for the Xbox One, Xbox Series S, or Xbox Series X. Some players balk because it’s wired only but its mechanical buttons, customizable components, and rear triggers coalesce into an effective gamepad worthy of its “Elite” price.

    Earlier this year, Razer finally released the true successor to the Ultimate, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, which updates the full feature set of the Ultimate with a new controller design with distinctively molded grips and, true to its name, customizable RGB lighting. The Wolverine V2 Chroma is comfortable, feature-rich, and retains the unique set of features that made the original good enough to justify wired connectivity. If you don’t mind the extra cable, the Wolverine V2 Chroma is flashy, functional, and a hell of a good time.

    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Review

    Mike Epstein

    SEE IT

    A new coat of Chroma for the Razer Wolverine V2 

    The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma looks a lot different than the Wolverine Ultimate that came before it. Introduced with 2020’s less expensive Wolverine V2, the V2 Chroma has a wider, more rounded shape, which feels more modern and better differentiates itself from Microsoft’s first-party Xbox gamepads. Razer’s also removed the once-necessary audio controls for analog headsets. Picking up the Wolverine Ultimate again after a long time, it was more dated than I remembered.

    Its matte black plastic shell and buttons seem more subdued than its predecessor. Measuring 6.5 by 4.13 by 2.59 inches (WDH), it looks and feels weighty but, at 10.09 ounces, it mirrors the 10.12oz standard Series X/S controller. The handles have been reshaped with curved, bulbous stems that create a natural fit for your hands. Thick rubberized grips on the sides and base of the handles keep this Xbox controller from wiggling in your grasp.

    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
    Curved grips and RGB lighting are two of the Wolverine V2 Chroma’s most important changes. Mike Epstein

    Then, of course, there’s the namesake “Chroma” RGB lighting. The controller has two bands of RGB illumination that divide the rubberized grips and the face, where you’ll find the buttons and analog sticks. The lights cycle through a rainbow of colors by default, but players can customize the patterns using the  Razer Controller configuration app for Xbox and Windows.

    Playing the hits

    The Wolverine V2 Chroma retains the already considerable feature set that kept the Wolverine Ultimate a top Xbox One controller for many years. 

    The V2 Chroma features six customizable inputs. Four ergonomic triggers pack tightly onto the back of the controller, and two “multifunction” buttons, dubbed “M1” and “M2” sit on the top of the gamepad near the bumpers (LB and RB). The triggers require slightly more of a reach than the Xbox Elite Series 2’s rear paddles, but they are still effective for quick, supplemental taps. (I like using them for dodges and rolls in games like Dark Souls, or the melee attack in Halo Infinite.) The multifunction buttons can be very useful, especially with games with control schemes that revolve around the bumpers and triggers, but it’s on you to configure them and remember that they’re there.

    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma rear triggers
    Many high-end controllers add rear paddles or buttons. The Wolverine V2 Chroma adds rear triggers. Mike Epstein

    The V2 Chroma also has replaceable analog sticks. You can swap out convex and concave stick-tops on the fly. They’re held in magnetically, which makes it very easy to pop them out, while still feeling tight and responsive as you’re playing. Unlike the Ultimate, the Wolverine V2 Chroma’s one-piece D-pad is not replaceable.

    Lastly, the Wolverine V2 Chroma has trigger locks—a competitive feature that shortens the travel of the triggers, making it easier to squeeze them very quickly. I personally don’t love the abrupt stop when you pull a locked trigger, but they are helpful for competitive play.

    Click A to start

    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma mechanical buttons
    Razer’s Wolverine line is known for its clicky mechanical face buttons. Mike Epstein

    There is one specific returning feature that makes the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma stand out: the face buttons and D-pad feature mechanical switches, which cut down slightly on input lag and provide a noticeable tactile click when you press them. As with mechanical keyboards, the switches in the V2 Chroma use a physical mechanism to “actuate” an input, sending the signal to your Xbox or PC. 

    According to Razer, using mechanical switches leads to quicker actuation, and may shave a fraction of a second off of lag off each input. The tactile bump also serves as a confirmation that you’ve fully pressed each button, leading to better speed and accuracy. They also just feel good to press. The clicky buttons have a smooth action and cut out any hint of button squishiness, a common complaint in even great controllers. The feedback and feel of mechanical buttons make the experience of rapidly tapping all over the gamepad especially satisfying.

    So, who should buy the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma?

    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
    Not everyone cares for a wired controller, but the Wolverine V2 Chroma has too many things going for it to dismiss it out of hand. Mike Epstein

    Other than the Elite Series 2, the Wolverine V2 Chroma is the best Xbox controller you can get right now. If you don’t mind using a wired controller, its mechanical buttons make the experience of using a gamepad more satisfying. Plus, it has many of the best, luxury gamepad features available among third-party gamepads. And, yeah, the Chroma’s fun too. At $149.99, it’s an expensive controller, but any gamepad that somehow improves the fundamental feeling of pressing a button is worthy of consideration, regardless of the price.

    The post Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Xbox controller review: A wired revival appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Black Friday gaming deals for PS5, PC, Xbox Series X, and Switch https://www.popsci.com/reviews/black-friday-gaming-deals-2021/ Fri, 26 Nov 2021 14:35:52 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=412412
    Black Friday Gaming deals
    Amazon

    Here are some of the best ways to save money on games and gaming gear for Black Friday.

    The post Black Friday gaming deals for PS5, PC, Xbox Series X, and Switch appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Black Friday Gaming deals
    Amazon

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Ring the alarm! Today’s Black Friday! There have already been deals across the web with huge discounts on all kinds of video gaming-related stuff, from new(ish) games, to controllers and headsets, to gaming PCs and monitors. There are so many, in fact, that we now need to comb through them and figure out which ones are actually worth buying. Remember: A big sale and a good deal aren’t always the same thing. A crappy controller that’s 90 percent off is still a crappy controller.

    We’re highlighting the best Black Friday and, eventually Cyber Monday deals on games and gaming gear. The PopSci commerce team will keep this post updated throughout the weekend as the discounts come and go this holiday season. As always, I’ve also put together a few tips to help you figure out how to parse the good deals from the bad on your own, so you aren’t out there shopping all alone in the digital wilderness.

    The best Black Friday video game deal – Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy — $25.00 (down from $59.99)

    There are tons of great Black Friday deals on video games this year. Many of the 2020 and 2021’s biggest hits are down to $30 or $40. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is the newest big-budget game I’ve seen with a major price cut. It doesn’t hurt that Guardians was the arguably the surprise hit of the Fall video game season, impressing critics with a captivating story that feels similar to the MCU, but has a charm all its own.

    The link at the top of this story is for the Xbox version, but Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is also available on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles for $29.99.

    The best Black Friday gaming mouse deal — Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse — $99.99 (Down from $149.99)

    The Logitech G502 Lightspeed is one of my favorite wireless gaming mice. It’s comfortable, has tons of customizable buttons, and has an amazing wireless charging setup if you pair with Logitech’s Powerplay mouse pad. My only qualm has always been that, at $150, it’s very expensive. At a much more reasonable $99, this is one of the best PC gaming upgrades you can make.

    The best Black Friday gaming keyboard deal — Corsair K100 RGB Optical Keyboard – $179.99 (Down from $229.99)

    If you love the big gaming keyboards with tons of features and smothered in RGB, Corsair’s flagship K100 RGB opto-mechanical keyboard is an incredible pick. It has every feature a PC gamer could want, including USB passthrough, dedicated media keys, a volume roller, and customizable RGB lighting. It’s a perennial upgrade pick, but you can get it for a good price right now.

    The best Black Friday gaming headset deal — JBL Quantum One Gaming Headset – $149.99 (Down from $299.99)

    The JBL Quantum One is a truly gaming decadent headset for PC players. It’s comfortable, has special features like 3D audio and head-tracking. It even has customizable RGB lighting. These features push the Quantum One’s price to a sky-high $300, but anything’s possible on Black Friday, so now it costs only $149.99, putting it in the same price range as most mid-high tier headsets. For most PC-based headset-owners, this will be a huge upgrade.

    The best Black Friday gaming monitor deal — Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor — $999 (down from $1399).

    Monitors are an especially good thing to shop for around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holidays. They tend to be very pricey, and those prices often get cut when retailers get the proverbial red pen out to slash prices. Samsung has a large slate of monitors on heavy discount this holiday season, the most exciting of which is the Odyssey G9, a beautiful 49-inch curved ultrawide display. The 32:9 screen can output at 5120 x 1440p resolution at a 244Hz refresh rate. Curved ultrawide monitors are something of an acquired taste, they enhance the cinematic quality of games, but can be finicky in some situations. If the idea appeals to you, though, this is a very good option.

    The best Black Friday gaming PC deal — Razer Blade 15 Base 15.6″ 4K UHD gaming laptop (Intel Core i7, Nvidia RTX 2070, 512GB SSD) –$1,399 (Down from $2,299.99)

    The Razer Blade is one of the best lines of thin-and-light gaming laptops around. It is also notoriously hyper-expensive. For Black Friday, Razer’s pulling out all the stops, dropping the price of an older model of the Razer Blade 15 by $900 to get it out the door. While its got an Nvidia 2070, a last-gen graphics card, you’re still getting a lot of performance for the price. Plus, it isn’t every day that we get to call a Razer laptop “relatively affordable.”

    The best Black Friday VR deal — HP Reverb G2 Virtual Reality Headset $449.99 (Down from $599.99)

    If you’re looking to dabble in virtual reality or, better yet, if you’ve tried an Oculus Quest 2 and want to dive down the rabbit hole head-first, the HP Reverb G2 is a passport to the wider world of VR gaming. It’s a powerful, PC-based headset that supports “4K resolution” (2160 x 2160 per eye) and a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a smooth experience. (Assuming you have a powerful gaming rig to run them). The Reverb G2 also grants you access to a wider world of VR content: It supports Microsoft’s VR store by default, but can access the SteamVR and the Oculus PC library as well. It’s an affordable way to make the jump from VR novice to hobbyist in a single step.

    More of the best Black Friday gaming deals

    New consoles in stock!

    Nintendo Switch OLED with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle – $299.99 (Walmart)

    Nintendo Game and Watch: The Legend of Zelda – $49.99 (Target)

    Xbox Series S – $299.99 (Best Buy)

    Oculus Quest 2 VR Headset (Comes with a $50 gift card) – $299.99 (Best Buy)

    Black Friday Video game deals

    Hitman III (PS5) – $34.82 (Down from $59.99)

    Deathloop (PS5 or PC) – $24.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Returnal (PS5) – $42.79 (Down from $69.99)

    Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart (PS5) – $49.94 (Down from $69.99)

    Death Stranding: Director’s Cut (PS5) – $39.82 (Down from $49.99)

    Demon’s Souls (2020) (PS5) – $39.82 (Down from $69.99)

    Tales of Arise (PS5) – $29.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Immortals: Fenix Rising (PS5, PS4) – $14.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Persona 5 Strikers (PS4) – $29.99 (Down from $59.99)

    FIFA 22 (PS5) – $26.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Madden NFL 22 (PS5) – $26.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Ultimate Edition (Xbox) – $48.00 (Down from $119.99)

    Yakuza: Like a Dragon (Xbox) – $19.99 (Down from $59.99)

    FIFA 22 (Xbox Series S/X) – $26.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Madden NFL 22 (Xbox Series S/X) – $26.00 (Down from $69.99)

    Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo Switch) – $35.00 (Down from $59.99)

    The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2020) (Nintendo Switch) – $39.00 (Down from $59.99)

    Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Nintendo Switch) – $35.00 (Down from $59.99)

    Astral Chain (Nintendo Switch, Digital code only) – $39.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Black Friday video game accessory and subscription deals

    PlayStation Plus: 12-month subscription – $39.99 (Down from $59.99)

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: 3-month subscription – $24.99 (Down from $44.99)

    Xbox Game Pass for PC: 3-month Subscription – $19.99 (Down from $29.99)

    Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller for Android – $44.99 (Down from $79.99)

    Razer Kishi mobile game controller for iOS – $59.99 (Down from $99.99)

    SteelSeries Apex 7 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – $136.00 (Down from $159.99)

    Anne Pro 2 60 Percent Mechanical Keyboard – $107.00 (Down from $162.00)

    Razer Viper Ultimate Wireless Gaming Mouse – $89.99 (Down from $149.99)

    HyperX Cloud Alpha Gaming Headset – $59.99 (Down from $99.99)

    Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE Gaming Headset – $169.99 (Down from $209.99)

    Razer Iskur X Gaming Chair – $299.99 (Down from $399.99)

    Elgato Game Capture HD60 S (Best for PS4, Xbox One, and Switch) – $119.99 (Down from $179.99)

    Razer Kiyo Pro Streaming Webcam – $99.99 (Down from $199.99)

    Black Friday gaming PC and gaming monitor deals

    Acer Nitro XV271 27-inch Full IPS Gaming Monitor – $299.99 (Down from $399.99)

    Dell S2721DGF 27-inch IPS QHD Gaming Monitor – $329.99 (Down from $449.99)

    LG UltraGear 32-inch LED QHD Gaming Monitor – $299.99 (Down from $399.99)

    Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G30A FHD Gaming Monitor – $229.99 (Down from $329.99)

    Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 gaming laptop – $1,499.99 (Down from $1,849.99)

    Dell G15 15.6” Gaming Laptop – $879.99 (Down from $1,149.99)

    Dell Alienware m15 R5 15.6″ Gaming Laptop – $1,699 (Down from $2,099.99)

    HP Omen 16.1″ QHD Gaming Laptop – $1,699.99 (Down from $1,799.99)

    Asus ROG Strix GA15 G15DK Gaming Desktop – $1249.99 (Down from $1,499.99)

    Things to consider when buying Black Friday gaming deals

    These are only a small, prestigious sample of the vast selection of gaming Black Friday deals that are on sale right now. Between these deals and the ones that will appear in the next few weeks, there will be an overwhelming number of offers from every retailer and manufacturer. If you plan to continue pursuing digital storefronts, keep these tips in mind.

    If you’re shopping for a console, prepare to work hard

    If you perused all the deals in this post, you’ll probably notice a few conspicuous absences — We have lots of leads for console games and accessories, but only a few, fleeting options for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or Nintendo Switch OLED consoles themselves. If you’ve spent any time shopping for the new consoles in the last year, you may know why. Video game consoles are flying off the shelves at record rates in 2021. Not only should you not expect to find them discounted, you’ll be lucky to find them in stock at all.

    If a game console is on your shopping list this year, I would strongly urge you to pick a backup gift for your holiday gathering and tell the person you’re shopping for that you hope to buy them one when you can. I have noticed in the last week that retailers have been sending out notices about having consoles in stock, so it is definitely a good time to try getting one. If you’re up for it: I’d recommend requesting alerts for your desired console with all the major retailers — Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart. Also look for newsletters like Matt Swider’s The Shortcut, and social accounts like Wario64 or Cheap Ass Gamer, which highlight availability in real time.

    That said, they are all really hot tickets this year, so don’t assume that you will be able to beat the odds.

    When shopping games, beware ‘kid in a candy store syndrome‘

    Any gamer who’s shopped the Steam Summer Sale or any console store’s holiday sale will tell you, it is very easy to buy too many video games. Most game publishers employ the same set of tricks on Black Friday, dropping the price of their games to somewhere between $20-$40 (Or less for older titles). With tons of games floating around half-off, it can be very easy to talk yourself into buying a bunch of games you don’t really want. While having a backlog of unplayed games feels luxurious, I assure you that you will feel better about your purchases if you stick to buying games you wanted before they were on sale, and spend that other money on peripherals or other gear.

    When buying a gaming PC, don’t be swayed too much by discounts

    When assessing the value of a gaming PC, you need to consider how long it will reasonably be capable of playing new AAA video games. In general, the more you spend, the more future-proof your machine will be. Black Friday disrupts the simple price-to-longevity equation with deals that create incredible value. However, I would urge PC shoppers to avoid taking a flier on a pre-built gaming rig because of a big sale. Taking $200-$300 off a machine that should cost anywhere from $1000-$5000 is rarely worth it if doing so causes you to buy a machine with compromised specs. If you do, you may find yourself looking for another PC in just 2-3 years.

    Buy early this year

    If you are actually shopping for gifts — No shame if you’re shopping for yourself! I will be too. — do not hesitate when you find something that you want. Between supply chain issues related to shipping, the semiconductor shortage, and general holiday delivery madness, you should consider holiday shopping a high priority if you hope to get your gifts delivered by Christmas. (If you’re looking for gifts to give on the first night of Hanukkah, November 28, online shopping is off the table).

    The post Black Friday gaming deals for PS5, PC, Xbox Series X, and Switch appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Nintendo Switch review: Great for games at home or on the go, and that might be enough https://www.popsci.com/reviews/nintendo-switch-review/ Sat, 19 Jun 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=371589
    Nintendo Switch handheld running Mario Odyssey
    The Nintendo Switch is still the best handheld gaming machine running. Nick Ware

    The Nintendo Switch is a wonderful, versatile, if underpowered, games machine, but won’t anchor your home theater.

    The post Nintendo Switch review: Great for games at home or on the go, and that might be enough appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Nintendo Switch handheld running Mario Odyssey
    The Nintendo Switch is still the best handheld gaming machine running. Nick Ware

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    The year 2020 was huge for video games. With the introduction of the Sony Playstation 5 and Microsoft Xbox Series S and X, the console landscape experienced a near-complete overhaul. That is, of course, except for the Nintendo Switch. Despite its age, the newly minted “elder statesman” of game machines saw massively increased demand during the global pandemic, leading to shortages that are still present in many territories today. The Switch is by far the least powerful machine on the market, but its charm, portability, and a killer roster of beloved game franchises give it undeniable appeal. 

    The Switch initially impressed players with its ability to “switch” from home console to handheld game console and back again. As it has matured, though, it has shifted its focus to offering a great games library at a much lower entry price than Sony and Microsoft’s half-a-G set-top boxes. A secondary Nintendo Switch console, the Nintendo Switch Lite, dropped the “switching” completely, opting instead for being a dedicated handheld game console at two-thirds the price of the original Switch—check out our Nintendo Switch vs. Lite comparison. Generations ago, Nintendo marketed itself with the tagline, “now you’re playing with power,” but power isn’t what you’re playing with anymore. Instead, it’s value, great game choices, and versatility. Even three years after its introduction, the Switch is easy to recommend to players looking for great games first and a technological showcase second. 

    Nintendo zigs when the giants zag 

    Nintendo has a lot of wins in its history, but it’s not undefeated. The too-much-too-soon Wii U was a huge miss in 2012. It racked up less than 15 percent of the sales of its predecessor, the Wii. The Switch came quickly, only five years after the Wii U, and reversed Nintendo’s fortunes, with roughly 85 million units sold to date. (These numbers include both the original Nintendo Switch console and the handheld gaming systems-only Lite.)  

    Regardless of how the market responds, there are a few guarantees when it comes to any Nintendo console. One is great first-party exclusive games. Nintendo has created some of the most iconic and revered game characters and series in gaming history, with its mascot Mario leading the way. However, the versatility of the Switch is likely the main component to its early success. In urban markets and especially its home country of Japan, the small size, portability, and playable-on-public-transportation appeal of the Switch fit the lifestyle of young adults. In more suburban areas, it keeps the kids occupied in the backseat.  

    Once the user base was established, the Switch, surprisingly, became home for many indie games and PC ports of the more technically modest variety, including widely acclaimed or zeitgeist-grabbing games like Hades and Among Us. Now the library, and the $300 ($200 for Lite) price point, are the power play for the already massively successful machine. 

    Switching up designs with the Nintendo Switch 

    Nintendo Switch plus docking station and accessories
    The standard Switch package has everything you need to play on the go or at home. Nick Ware
    ProsCons
    PortabilityLower resolution output
    Lower price entryPorted software lacking
    Excellent software librarySmall, uncomfortable controllers

    While there are different varieties of the Switch, almost all the differences are cosmetic. In the standard Switch package, you’ll get the screen unit, a dock for when you want to play on your television, a left and right control unit (called a JoyCon), and a plastic frame for making them into a single Nintendo Switch controller. JoyCons are designed to be used as discrete controllers for some more popular games (Mario Kart 8 Deluxe), meaning the Switch comes with “two” controllers, but games requiring complicated inputs (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild) require both to be used simultaneously, which is where the plastic frame comes in.  

    As separate controllers, the JoyCons are small for adult hands, and an alternative controller like the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller ($60) will likely be more comfortable. It is close in form factor to the controllers of the PlayStation and Xbox and is superior to the JoyCon-and-frame experience. As with just about every other Nintendo-produced Switch game and peripheral, the Pro Controller’s price hasn’t dropped. If you’re waiting for hardware to get cheaper before leaping in, you’ll probably wait for a very long time. 

    Another separate accessory that is a must for any Switch user who plans to play digital games is an external memory card. The Switch has a paltry 32GB of internal storage but has a port for microSD cards for additional space. A 512GB microSD card runs anywhere from $70 to $100. Even with the purchase of a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and a large microSD card, the total buy-in for a Switch is cheaper than top-of-the-line editions of the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X ($430 vs. $500). 

    Why might you Switch your mind? 

    Despite the great game library and lower cost of entry, there are three main arenas in which the Switch simply cannot compete with its beefier competition. The online environment for Switch games is a minnow among sharks. One of their premier multiplayer games, Super Mario Party, added online multiplayer support in 2021, two-and-a-half years after its initial release. This is sadly emblematic of Nintendo’s approach to multiplayer: everything is designed with local play in mind, online is an afterthought. This includes needlessly complicating the online infrastructure of games with friend codes, and very weak offerings of “free” monthly subscription games compared to Sony’s PlayStation Plus and Microsoft’s Xbox Live Gold. 

    The second area is support for additional media services. Both the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X/S can double as quality media centers for your television, allowing you to access streaming services, play videos from USB memory or streamed from your own network, and can output theater-quality sound. While you can enjoy the most popular services like Netflix on Switch, don’t expect output beyond 1080p. That leaves your 4K or 8K television wanting for pixels.

    Lastly, as mentioned before, the output power of the Switch is simply not on the same level as Sony and Microsoft’s latest offerings. Many games won’t show up on the Switch because they cannot run on the hardware, and even some games from PS4 and Xbox One (The Witcher III) have trouble meeting the same performance levels. Of course, none of this matters if you’re endlessly charmed by Mario or Nintendo’s other IP. But, that doesn’t apply to everyone. 

    Flipping the Switch 

    Nintendo Switch docked next to a flatscreen TV
    Nintendo’s iconic, exclusive characters, like Mario and Zelda, are one of the Switch’s core selling points. Nick Ware

    If you decide to get a standard Switch, the set-up is very simple. Connect the dock to your television via HDMI cable and plug it in with the included USB-C cable and AC adapter. Slide the screen into the open space in the dock and use the JoyCons as wireless remote controls for the menu system. The JoyCons have motion control capabilities even better than the Wii’s remotes and are relatively intuitive. As mentioned above, the maximum output of the Switch is 1080p. (The screen in handheld game console mode is 720p.) Switching the Switch is also simple. Pull the screen out of the dock, slide the left and right JoyCons into the grooves on the side of the screen, and it’s ready to go. Battery life on the current iteration of the hardware has improved, but it’s rare to get more than 6 hours of gaming time on a single charge, so bring an external battery for longer trips. 

    Ninten-does what Sony and Microsoft don’t  

    The portability of the Switch is its most desirable feature. Simply put, its only competition in portable gaming right now is smartphones and tablets. Both of Sony’s attempts to enter the portable gaming space (PlayStation Portable and PlayStation Vita) were noble failures. Nintendo’s 3DS is still chugging along, but high-profile software releases are few and far between, and most series, including Pokemon, have moved to the Switch. 

    At the moment, both Sony and Microsoft are working on building out their cloud-based game streaming options, but they’re nowhere near as simple as firing up a game on the Switch and taking it out the door. Also, playing games built for high-powered consoles on a tiny phone screen negates some of the benefits of juiced-up graphics. 

    Straight up, if you want a dedicated portable game console, you’re getting a Switch. If you have no plans to ever play on a television, a Nintendo Switch Lite will save you $100, but even without a TV connection the ability to disconnect the JoyCons from the Switch screen and play a few rounds of Mario Kart or Super Smash Bros. with a friend or family member is not something the Lite offers. Since 2017, I’ve enjoyed such sessions while sitting in an airport, waiting in line, and in the park on a sunny afternoon.  

    The Nintendo Switch is a machine that is everything and its own thing 

    The gaming landscape is more crowded than ever. Three companies make gaming consoles, PC gaming is extremely healthy, and mobile devices have their own games and genres. The Switch competes in some ways with all of these realms. It features some of PC’s most interesting indie games. Nintendo’s history as a console maker paints it as a rival to Sony and Microsoft whether they are doing similar things or not.  

    The Switch’s portability means it may compete for attention with a phone or tablet. However, The Switch remains unique. Its game catalog is unassailable, with many all-time titles, both new and re-released. It feels like a gaming machine in ways that tablets, phones, or PCs never quite do, and doesn’t require as many updates as titles on those platforms (or, frankly, on Sony and Microsoft machines).  

    Nintendo’s reputation for quality is well-earned through 40 years of video gaming history, and the Switch carries that tradition proudly. It’s hard to imagine someone purchasing a Switch knowing what the machine is and being disappointed in it. It has carved out its own little place in the industry. Many are clamoring for an iteration featuring a better battery and a 1080p portable screen, but even more are simply waiting to see how Nintendo innovates next. Rumors suggest there could be a Switch Pro coming down the line, but details are sparse and even a new model may not be enough to drop the price on the original Switch console. 

    So, who should buy the Nintendo Switch? 

    Nintendo Switch docked next to a flatscreen TV
    Portability, followed by playability, are what make the Switch platform great. Nick Ware

    The Switch is a game machine for people who want to play games. That may seem like a self-evident statement but gaming is now dominated by an electronics megapower and a computing vanguard. Sony and Microsoft are interested in much more than simply making interesting games that are fun to play. The PlayStation and Xbox want to dominate your home theater set-up; they want to be the digital totems at which we all e-pray for all our entertainment needs. 

    If you only want one game machine, and you want to play at home, and you want your game machine to do a lot of other things for you and take advantage of your high-end television and sound systems, the Switch is not your first choice. The Switch’s biggest weakness and greatest strength is its versatility and dedication to being a gaming platform. If you love Nintendo’s characters and franchises or are looking at dedicated handheld game systems, the Switch is an easy buy. Playing doesn’t always need power.

    nintendo switch review

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    Nicholas Ware holds a Master’s in Popular Culture Studies from Bowling Green State University, and has a wide variety of academic and popular published work, mainly focusing on video games and film. 

    The post Nintendo Switch review: Great for games at home or on the go, and that might be enough appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         How to listen to music while you game on the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S https://www.popsci.com/diy/listen-to-music-while-gaming/ Fri, 29 Oct 2021 01:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=405907
    Person with gaming headset looking at screen
    Keep the music on during those gaming sessions. Fredrick Tendong / Unsplash

    Blast out your tunes while gaming.

    The post How to listen to music while you game on the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Person with gaming headset looking at screen
    Keep the music on during those gaming sessions. Fredrick Tendong / Unsplash

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    For some of us, gaming sessions don’t feel right unless we’ve got our favorite tunes playing in the background. Luckily, all the latest next-gen gaming consoles offer the option to fire up a music player while we race, explore, or do battle.

    If you’ve never tried this before, give it a go. While the science on listening to music while gaming is thin on the ground, research shows that sticking some tunes on can boost productivity and mood at work, and help with memory while learning.

    A lot depends on your individual response to music, the type of music you listen to, and how loud it is. So if this doesn’t feel right the first time, it might be worth swapping to a different mood of music before abandoning the idea.

    Whether you’ve got a PlayStation 5, an Xbox Series X, or an Xbox Series S, you can load up a few playlists of your choosing. It’s not difficult to do, and will only take you a few extra minutes before you start gaming.

    Listening to music on a Sony PlayStation 5

    You’ve got two choices when it comes to listening to music on the PS5: Spotify and Apple Music. In both cases, you’ll need an account, but you don’t have to be a paying subscriber to use the gaming feature on Spotify. Apple Music, on the other hand,  doesn’t have a free tier, so you’ll definitely need to spend a few bucks to get you started. 

    On your console, head to Media then All Apps to find and download the music app of your choice, after which you’ll need to follow the instructions to sign in to your account. To save you typing out your username and password, the PlayStation will prompt you to use the Spotify or app on your phone to sign in. 

    [Related: Instantly improve Spotify by organizing your playlists]

    You can also play some tunes through these services’ apps for the PS5. To listen to music while you’re playing, you can simply launch the music app, start playback, and then launch the game of your choice. If you tap the PlayStation button during gameplay, you’ll see a music playback panel. Select it and you’ll be able to adjust the volume, pause playback, skip through tracks, and toggle the shuffle and repeat features on or off as needed.

    Alternatively, you can also start or switch to a playlist while you’re in a game, even if you didn’t launch the music app beforehand. To do this, tap the PlayStation button on the controller, go to Music, and the menu will display a choice of playlists for you to browse through, while the game you’re running stays on screen in the background.

    For the best results, you’re probably going to want to turn down the volume in whatever game you’re playing so you can hear your music, but how you do this will vary depending on the game. Some titles have background music playing fairly quietly by default anyway, or will even switch off their own music automatically when they detect a music app is also running, so this isn’t something you’re necessarily going to have to do for every game.

    Listening to music on an Xbox Series X/S

    When it comes to the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S, there are a few music apps you can use at the time of writing, including Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Pandora. We’ll take you through the process with Spotify, but it’s similar no matter which music app you decide to use.

    First, you need to find your app of choice from the Store portal on the Xbox home screen and log into your account. In the case of Spotify, this will work whether or not you’re a paying user. You can also log in using the app on your phone or via a web browser on your computer to save you having to type out your password on your console.

    To listen to music in the background on an Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S, you can either launch the music app first, start playback and then switch to the game, or you can start your game and then load up your tunes afterward. To do the latter, tap the Xbox button on the controller and pick the music service in the apps list.

    [Related: Best Xbox One controllers: Gamepads for every player]

    When you select Spotify, you’ll see controls for skipping through tracks, pausing playback, turning repeat and shuffle on or off, and switching to a different playlist in your library. There’s also a handy slider for controlling the balance between the volumes of your music app and the rest of the sounds coming from your Xbox.

    As with the PlayStation 5, certain Xbox games may play music or play other sound effects that interfere with your background music app, though the ones we’ve tested mute their own sounds accordingly. If you do have problems, dive into the audio settings for the game you’re playing and turn down the volume or switch off the in-game audio from there.

    The post How to listen to music while you game on the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         What you need to know about adding more PS5 storage with an SSD https://www.popsci.com/reviews/ps5-storage-drive-upgrade/ Wed, 25 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=390173
    PlayStation 5 ps5 storage
    The PS5 is big, but you already knew that. Stan Horaczek

    Store more games in your PS5 with this long-awaited upgrade.

    The post What you need to know about adding more PS5 storage with an SSD appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    PlayStation 5 ps5 storage
    The PS5 is big, but you already knew that. Stan Horaczek

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    When the PlayStation 5 launched last November, Sony claimed that players would be able to install a high-speed internal storage drive into the console, adding more capacity for PS5 games as their game libraries expand. As it turns out, launching a game console in a pandemic can be tricky, so Sony quickly decided to disable that functionality until a later date. After nearly eight months, Sony announced in July that it’s started to let players test hard drive expansion on PS5s. At the moment, it’s limited to a public beta, but this is the first step towards letting players take advantage of the feature, which is incredibly useful if you like to bounce between playing many different games.

    Why would you want to put another hard drive in your PS5?

    Out of the box, PS5 comes with an 875GB solid-state drive. After factoring the space needed for the system software, you actually have 667.2 GB to store games, apps like Netflix and YouTube, saved game data, screenshots, and video clips. Many of the best PS5 games require between 40-60 GB of storage. Even if you mix in some PS4 games and smaller indies, you can realistically store 10-15 games on the drive at a time. After that, you’ll need to delete games and redownload them if you ever want to play them again. There’s no direct cost to uninstall and reinstall games, but it takes time and internet bandwidth. (It really sucks when you go to play a game with a friend, and it turns out you have to reinstall it).

    Given the required specs, a compatible second hard drive allows you to increase the PS5’s storage anywhere from 500GB to 4TB, greatly increasing the number of games you can stash on the console at once.

    What kind of hard drive can you put in your PS5?

    You can’t just put any old hard drive into a PS5. In order to match the expected speed of the console’s internal storage (and the expansion drive slot in the console), you’ll need an M.2 solid state drive with a high read speed. An M.2 drive is a form of NVMe (Non-Volitile Memory Express), which connects to the consoles via PCIe, which makes it much faster than a standard Solid State drive. M.2 modules are also generally much smaller than standard hard drives — they look more like a stick of RAM than a standard SSD.

    Sony has very specific technical requirements for what kind of M.2 drive you can put in the PS5. You should check Sony’s website for the full spec list before buying a new drive, but here are key details…

    A PS5-compatible hard drive must be a PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe drive with a read speed above 5500 MB/s. It needs to be more than 22 millimeters wide (Sony lists the M.2 form factors that meet this spec). It also should also come with a built-in heatsink, though you can buy one without it and add a heatsink separately.

    Related: Best PS5 accessories

    This seems hard. What about external hard drives?

    Technically the PS5 does support storage expansion using external hard drives… Just not for PS5 games. Instead, you can use an external HDD or SSD to keep PS5 games in “cold storage,” so you can download them without using the internet, or store and play PS4 games. (Though they may not run as smoothly as they would normally on PS5).

    Okay fine. Can you just tell me what hard drive to get?

    That’s a bit tricky, too. Sony has not officially endorsed or rated any specific drives as optimized for PS5. In fact, they won’t even guarantee that drives meeting the recommended specs will work properly. The closest thing to endorsement comes from Mark Cerny, lead architect at Sony, who tweeted out his personal pick, the Western Digital Black SN850 with built-in heatsink.

    Over the past few weeks, many major hardware manufacturers have started clarifying that their drives are PS5-compatible. Meanwhile, there are a ton of gaming publications out there testing drives and providing rankings and recommendations. We may do some testing of our own down the line. For now, here’s one from some old friends at IGN.

    Okay. I’m ready. How do I do this?

    First thing’s first. Go to the PlayStation website and sign up for the PS5 software beta program. To join, you need a PS5, an active PSN account, and live in the U.S., Canada, Japan, France, Germany, or The United Kingdom. Sony specifically warns people not to install the hard drive before you’re approved and have installed the beta firmware.

    We will have a more detailed description of how to install a hard drive to increase PS5 storage in the future, but here’s the abridged version for now: 

    1. Once the beta software is installed, you’ll need to unplug the console, turn it on its side, and unscrew the large white side panel with a Phillips Head screwdriver. 

    2. After removing the panel, you’ll see a long rectangular slot for the M.2 drive on the inside of the console. 

    3. The hard drive slot has a cover, which you’ll need to unscrew. After removing the panel, use the internal screw to adjust the size of the slot.

    4. Insert the drive into the connector at an angle, and make sure to gently but firmly press it in so it’s connected.

    5. Gently (gently, mind you!) tilt the drive flat and screw it into the slot. That’s it! Put the cover back on and you’re done.

    When will you be able to install a hard drive without joining the beta?

    According to Polygon, PlayStation 5 software version 2.0, the version currently in beta, should be available “later this year.”

    Related: Best monitors for your PS5

    The post What you need to know about adding more PS5 storage with an SSD appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Nintendo Switch OLED Preview: First Impressions https://www.popsci.com/reviews/nintendo-switch-oled-preview/ Mon, 27 Sep 2021 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=398101
    Nintendo Switch OLED Preview
    Mike Epstein

    A handheld-first upgrade

    The post Nintendo Switch OLED Preview: First Impressions appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Nintendo Switch OLED Preview
    Mike Epstein

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    When Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model), the upcoming revised version of Nintendo’s hybrid handheld console, fans were disappointed. Months of rumors and reporting had planted the idea that Nintendo’s console refresh would support 4K gameplay in docked mode and other hardware upgrades that improve performance. The new Switch would be a minor step up, rather than a revelation. But what kind of difference would the changes make in the real world?

    Last week, we got to spend a little time playing with the Switch OLED at a demo event in New York. For players who have managed to keep their expectations in check, or at least recovered from the sting of their own expectations, the seemingly technical upgrades coming to the next Switch coalesce into some impressive technical gains for the console’s portable “handheld” mode. With a bigger screen, “enhanced” audio, and more built-in storage, the Switch OLED’s improvements bring technical advantages to using the Switch as a portable device. It may not be a revelation, but it’s definitely a bigger upgrade than your average mid-cycle console redesign.

    A bigger, brighter, sharper screen

    Nintendo Switch OLED Preview
    A close-up of the Switch OLED’s signature feature, its upgraded display. Mike Epstein

    The Nintendo Switch OLED’s biggest upgrade is obviously its namesake, a 7-inch 720P OLED display. Though it isn’t exactly a huge change on paper (the original Switch has a 6.2 inch display), the screen looks much larger. Nintendo Increased the screen size without changing the physical dimensions of the Switch by reducing the size of the Bezels around the display. The picture isn’t quite wall-to-wall on the top and bottom, but you don’t notice the edge of the screen nearly as much while you’re playing in handheld mode.

    Bigger is great, but the switch to OLED–sorry, had to–make the screen look far sharper and brighter. Organic light-emitting diode, A.K.A. OLED, display technology allows each pixel to act as its own backlight. Each small square of screen can turn all the way off to create darker black levels, which improves contrast, and makes the already improved whites seem even brighter. OLED screens make for some of the best TVs and smartphone displays, so it may not come as a surprise to find that it generates a better picture for the Switch. 

    The colors on the Switch OLED seem brighter, with deep colors that pop off the screen more than the original model. There’s also better contrast between light and dark, particularly in game scenarios where part of the screen appears well-lit and another is in shadow. The distinction between light and dark can be sharp, like a shadow projected on a bright wall, or very gradual, like the silhouette of a statue in a low-lit room. Beyond lighting, the OLED screen makes every line and detail sharper.

    This is all, I might add, without adding more pixels. While Nintendo switched the size and type of the display, it still renders at 720p resolution, versus running 1080p in “docked” mode on a TV. Despite that, based purely on an hour’s worth of eye-balling it, the Switch OLED’s docked screen looks sharper and “better” overall on the handheld display than a TV in my time with it during the demo, which is not something I’ve thought of any game on the standard Switch.

    Nintendo Switch OLED: What else is new?

    Nintendo Switch OLED Preview
    The Nintendo Switch OLED comes in a new color, White (pictured), as well as with the classic red and blue Joy-Cons. Mike Epstein

    The Switch OLED’s screen is its reason for being, but the redesigned console also features a few smaller improvements, many of which address complaints from fans about the original device. The console’s internal hard drive has been upgraded from 32GB to 64GB. That’s still not really enough, but it will allow new Switch owners to get by without buying a MicroSD card for a little while. 

    Nintendo mentioned that the Switch OLED features “enhanced” audio for handheld and tabletop play, which presumably means new and improved stereo speakers. Though Nintendo declined to elaborate on the details of the upgrade, there was definitely a difference. The Switch OLED’s stereo speakers came through more cleanly than the standard Switch’s speakers, which occasionally sound scratchy and/or have an echo-like thinness. On the Switch OLED, the sound punched through sharp and clear.

    The original Switch’s Achille’s heel, a small, poorly hinged plastic kickstand, has been replaced with an adjustable rear kickstand that’s the full width of the console. The demo unit’s kickstand hinge felt a little stiff, but it articulated smoothly and was able to comfortably support the console’s weight. The MicroSD card is still under the kickstand, and seems a little more exposed since the panel is so large, but that’s a potential issue that we’ll examine in a full review.

    There’s also a redesigned dock

    While the advantages of the Nintendo Switch OLED are geared almost exclusively toward portable play, there’s a new, redesigned dock for “TV mode” players. Most people will notice aesthetic change first: The new dock has rounded corners, which will presumably reduce the potential for scratching the screen with the dock and/or poking yourself. More importantly, the dock now features a built-in ethernet port, so players can connect the Switch to a wired internet connection in docked mode without an adapter. I’d say it’s a nice touch but, frankly, it’s something the dock should have had the first time around.

    Let’s talk about Metroid Dread, the Nintendo Switch OLED’s biggest fan

    Metroid Dread game
    Metroid Dread, the fifth “core” Metroid, is the first game in the series made for the Nintendo Switch.

    As part of the event, Nintendo also showed off its next Switch-exclusive game, Metroid Dread. The fifth core Metroid game will launch on October 8, the same day as the Switch OLED. Metroid Dread, the long-awaited fifth core entry of Nintendo’s beloved 2D action-exploration series, bends the classic Metroid formula to focus on survival, bolstering the creepy, horror-esque vibes that have always been at the heart of the series. 

    On the mysterious planet ZDR, Samus explores a research station that’s gone dark, only to find that its inhabitants, a set of E.M.M.I robots have gone berserk. The E.M.M.I. robots are almost entirely indestructible and can track you whenever you enter one of their zones, forcing you to run, jump, and dodge at full speed if they find you. To help you build speed and get some distance from the E.M.M.I.s, Samus now has a sliding dodge that lets her pass through small passages where your pursuer can’t follow without slowing down. Even with the dash, though, outrunning and hiding from an E.M.M.I. isn’t easy, so escaping them creates an active, stressful tension that has as much in common with horror games like Resident Evil as it does with past Metroids. 

    Metroid Dread game
    In Metroid Dread, Samus must evade E.M.M.I. robots stalking her in certain areas. Nintendo

    Between those escapes and, presumably, challenging boss battles, Metroid carries the same passive tension it always has. Finding your way through the labyrinthine halls of the first area on ZDR requires you to wander, watch out for enemy obstacles, and pay close attention to your surroundings. In the opening hour, you frequently have to look for small, glowing blocks to shoot and create new paths. It’s easy to get lost if you aren’t careful.

    On a technical level, Dread and the Nintendo Switch OLED are a natural pair. As the name suggests, Dread hones in on the inherent creepiness that has been a part of the series’ DNA since the original NES classic. It features tons of rooms with dynamic lighting, from pitch-black spaces that gradually lighten, to areas with distinct light and shadow. It features a fair number of cutscenes, including a quick shot of an E.M.M.I. robot’s eye when you enter its “zone,” letting you know it’s on the hunt: These cutscenes give you a great sense of deeper color saturation and dynamic brightness of the OLED screen. There’s a reason Nintendo is launching them both on the same day.

    Compared to Mario and Zelda, Metroid has always been a slightly more niche concept, at least by Nintendo standards. It’s creepy sci-fi vibe and exploratory gameplay is much less guided than most Nintendo experiences, and has the capacity to challenge, confuse and frustrate in ways that Mario and Zelda usually don’t. Dread seems to be leaning into the qualities that make it unique among Nintendo’s games, which opens the door for a uniquely satisfying experience on the Switch.

    Nintendo Switch OLED: Final Thoughts

    Nintendo Switch OLED Preview
    The Switch OLED and Metroid Dread hit stores October 8. Mike Epstein

    Despite all of its nice tweaks, the Nintendo Switch OLED still feels like a minor upgrade. Most games will likely look better on its bigger, brighter screen, and “tabletop” play with detached joy-cons or a controller seems much more appealing with the new kickstand, but I’m not sure that it’s enough of a leap to warrant recommending Switch owners upgrade across the board. That’s doubly true when you factor in that the Switch OLED will cost $350, $50 more than the current Nintendo Switch. Still, the Nintendo Switch OLED is a surprisingly delightful improvement over the original Switch that puts portable mode first, just like many Switch owners.

    The Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) and Metroid Dread will both launch October 8th. You can pre-order them now at major retailers, including Amazon.

    The post Nintendo Switch OLED Preview: First Impressions appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         You can finally connect Bluetooth headphones to your Nintendo Switch. Here’s how. https://www.popsci.com/diy/nintendo-switch-bluetooth-headphones/ Thu, 16 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=396895
    Person playing on Nintendo Switch
    What took so long!?. Polina Tankilevitch / Pexels

    The Switch now has Bluetooth capabilities.

    The post You can finally connect Bluetooth headphones to your Nintendo Switch. Here’s how. appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Person playing on Nintendo Switch
    What took so long!?. Polina Tankilevitch / Pexels

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    The Nintendo Switch has been a smash hit based on just about every metric you can use. But that doesn’t mean that the handheld console is perfect, and for a long time, Switch users complained about how the device was not compatible with wireless audio. 

    Luckily their demands were heard, and Nintendo has now added Bluetooth capabilities to the Switch, which means you can finally connect a pair of wireless headphones. The new functionality is available on both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite, and any Bluetooth headphones or earbuds should work, so gamers on the go can play privately without the inconvenience of cables. 

    To get the feature on your gadget, you’re going to need version 13.0.0 (or later) of the system software on your Nintendo Switch. To check, select the cog icon from the home screen, then choose System and System Update to find out if you’re right up to date or if you need to download and install a newer version.

    Connecting Bluetooth headphones

    To connect a pair of Bluetooth headphones, you first need to get your headphones into pairing mode so that they’re discoverable. How you do this will depend on the headphones, but check online or dig out the user manual if you’re not sure.

    When it comes to the Apple AirPods Pro, for example, put them in the charging case, open the case lid and press and hold the button on the back of the case until the white light on the front starts blinking. The earbuds will stay in pairing mode until you close the lid again.

    [Related: Apple’s AirPod Pro earbuds add active noise-cancelling]

    Once your headphones are in pairing mode, select the cog icon from the Nintendo Switch home screen, then choose Bluetooth Audio and Add Device (or Pair Device, as some users have reported seeing). When the headphones you want to connect show up on screen, select them and then confirm the connection.

    If you adjust the Switch volume using the buttons on the top, you’ll notice the changes on your headphones while they’re connected. To permanently remove a pair of Bluetooth headphones, go back to the Bluetooth Audio menu in System Settings, then select the headphones and choose Remove Device. If you want to reconnect them, you’ll need to go through the pairing process all over again.

    Limitations and issues

    Nintendo says there are certain limitations to using Bluetooth audio. For example, when you connect your Bluetooth headphones you can only pair a maximum of two controllers to the Switch rather than the usual eight. Also, if your Bluetooth headphones have a built-in microphone, it won’t work.

    Via an on-screen message, your Switch will also let you know that “you may experience latency depending on the Bluetooth device you are using.” This is not unusual for Bluetooth audio devices, but it’s still worth noting. Hopefully, as further software updates roll out, latency will be less of a problem and affect fewer devices.

    [Related: How to fix the annoying audio delay on your soundbar]

    Another limitation is that you can only pair your Switch to one audio device at a time, though the console can remember 10 devices and quickly swap between them. You should also be aware that Bluetooth audio will be disconnected whenever there is “local communication,” like, for example, when you start up a local wireless multiplayer game.

    We’ve seen some reports of problems with this new feature, like slow wake-up times and varying audio quality between different pairs of Bluetooth headphones. If you experience anything like this, try removing any paired devices, powering off your Switch by holding the button at the top, and restarting it after 30 seconds. 

    Bear in mind that this is a brand new bit of functionality, so if one pair of headphones don’t connect properly, you might have better luck with a different pair.

    The post You can finally connect Bluetooth headphones to your Nintendo Switch. Here’s how. appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Xbox One and PS4 storage boosts that will let you keep everything forever https://www.popsci.com/story/diy/add-storage-playstation-xbox/ Mon, 13 Sep 2021 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/add-storage-playstation-xbox/
    A white PlayStation 4 with a white controller on top of it, ready to help you add more PS4 storage.
    Running out of Xbox One or PS4 storage can be a real hassle. Nikita Kachanovsky / Unsplash

    Sure, you can delete games and data, but it’s not that hard to set up an external drive.

    The post Xbox One and PS4 storage boosts that will let you keep everything forever appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    A white PlayStation 4 with a white controller on top of it, ready to help you add more PS4 storage.
    Running out of Xbox One or PS4 storage can be a real hassle. Nikita Kachanovsky / Unsplash

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    This story has been updated. It was originally published on March 12, 2020.

    When you’re ready for another gaming session, the last message you want to see on your console is that you’re running out of space. Help is at hand, though—you can add Xbox One and PlayStation 4 storage with an internal drive and or a new external disk.

    How to get extra PS4 storage space

    Go to the Storage section of your PS4’s Settings menu and you’ll immediately see how much room it has left on its internal drive. From there, select the drive to see how the used space is shared across games, saved data, and more.

    Open Applications to see your individual games. If there are any you can live without for a while, press Options on your controller, then Delete. You’ll get some more storage space, but the next time you want to play the game, you’ll need to redownload it or reinstall it from a disc.

    The same process applies for screenshots, captured video clips, and saved data, though you shouldn’t delete anything you might need again without backing it up somewhere else first—you won’t be able to get it back.

    The PlayStation 4's system storage screen, to help you assess whether you need more PS4 storage.
    When your PS4 storage starts to fill up, you’ll see the details on the System Storage screen. David Nield

    Before deleting images and videos in the Capture Gallery, you can copy them to an external USB storage device so you can store them elsewhere. You’ll need an external drive for this, which is an easy way to get extra storage space for your console.

    You can back up saved games to the cloud if you subscribe to the PlayStation Plus service, or you can copy them to external storage. The best place to manage this data is from the Application Saved Data Management option in Settings, which lets you access both online and external storage options.

    If you want to move your saved data off your PS4 and onto an external USB drive, you’ll need one that supports USB 3.0 and has a capacity of at least 250GB. You can use a USB stick, a portable USB-powered drive, or a large-capacity USB device with its own power supply.

    [Related: Rip out your computer’s guts and craft an external hard drive]

    Not every external USB drive with these specs will work as extra PS4 storage space, but most should. Drives that do connect to PS4s typically say so in their specs, so look out for it when you’re shopping. If it’s not explicitly mentioned in a drive’s retail listing, check with its manufacturer.

    Setup and configuration is simple: Plug the drive into a spare USB port on your PS4, and the console should recognize the new device within a few seconds. You can then copy saved games, photos, and videos to it as we mentioned earlier, without any extra configuration.

    You can also use the drive to store games themselves (though you won’t be able to access them if the drive gets disconnected). This requires an extra step and means you won’t be able to use the external drive for screenshots, captured videos, and saved game data. From Settings, go to Devices, then USB Storage Devices. Select the drive and pick Format as Extended Storage.

    Once you do so, this external USB drive will be the default storage location for new games. To move existing games to it, go to the Storage, System Storage, and Applications menu from before, then select a game and tap the Options button on your controller. If you want games to go to the internal drive by default, head to Settings again, then Storage, pick the internal or external storage entry on the list, and tap Options.

    The settings screen for an external PS4 storage device.
    Add an external drive for additional PS4 storage, and you can put games and apps on it. David Nield

    One other option to create extra PS4 storage is to upgrade the internal drive to a bigger model. It’s a more involved process, but you won’t have a separate drive lying around that can get banged up or lost. Most 2.5-inch hard disk and solid-state disk drives should work, but again, check compatibility when buying.

    A PS4 hard drive replacement isn’t too difficult, but make sure all your saved games are backed up to the cloud or an external drive before you try. Then, it’s just a question of powering down your PS4, opening up the drive bay, and swapping out the old drive for a new one. Once that’s done, you’ll need to use a laptop to reinstall the PS4 software from Sony.

    As long as you have some common sense and a screwdriver, you should be able to manage it without a problem. We don’t have space for a step-by-step guide here, but there are plenty available on the web to guide you in detail through the process.

    How to get more Xbox One storage

    If you’ve got an Xbox One X, an Xbox One S, or the original Xbox One, you can check on the console’s remaining storage by going to System, then Storage from the Settings screen—the graph on the right shows how much room you’ve got left.

    Straight away, the Xbox presents you with two options for freeing up some room. The first is Clear local saved games, which removes the local copies of games you’ve got saved in the cloud. Accessing game saves locally can save time, but if you want to free up space, you can safely get rid of them.

    The other option is Make more space, which lists temporary files that can be deleted from your Xbox console without affecting the playability of any of your games. These files have either been left behind by games you’ve uninstalled, or aren’t strictly necessary to play a game (what the software calls “shrinkable games”).

    The options you'll see when you investigate your Xbox One storage situation.
    There are some good built-in options for freeing up Xbox One storage space. David Nield

    Select the storage graph on the right, then View contents, for a more detailed breakdown of what’s on the internal drive, or Uninstall things to remove games and apps you’re not using or can live without. You’ll need to reinstall any games you remove—from a disc or the cloud—but your saved data will remain intact in the cloud.

    Screen captures and video recordings live in a different place: the Capture & share menu under your avatar. These are automatically uploaded to the cloud (sign into your Xbox Account to see and save them), so there’s no option to move them anywhere else, but you can free up space by deleting them via the Delete option underneath each one.

    [Related: Stressed out? Video games can help—if you follow these tips]

    If you still need more Xbox One storage space, adding external storage via a hard disk or solid-state drive isn’t difficult (SSDs are faster, but more expensive). Like the PS4, the drive must have a capacity of at least 256GB and support the USB 3.0 standard (or higher). You won’t be able to use a USB flash drive, though.

    Plug in a portable, USB-powered drive, or a larger one with its own power supply, and the Xbox One should pick it up almost immediately. A pop-up screen will give you a choice: to use the drive for media (music, videos, and pictures), or for games and apps (which means the drive will need to be wiped and formatted).

    Unless you have a lot of music, videos, and pictures on your console, you’ll probably want to use your external drive for games and apps, giving you more storage space to work with. After the format, you’ll be asked if you want to use the new drive as the default place for apps and games (you can change this at any time later on).

    From Settings, head to System and Storage, and your new external drive will appear alongside the internal one. As before, you can view the contents of the drive, uninstall games and apps from it, and set it as the default installation location using the options that pop up when you select the drive.

    Another option that appears as you switch between the internal and external storage on this screen is Set as capture location. This lets you set where your captured videos and screenshots are saved (as well as in the cloud), so if you store a lot of these files, you might want to keep them on your external drive to create additional Xbox One storage.

    The process for formatting an Xbox One external storage device.
    Getting extra storage space for your Xbox One is as easy as formatting an external storage device David Nield

    Pick Transfer from the internal drive menu and you’ll be able to move games, apps, and other files over to your external drive—just select the items you want and pick Move selected. You can move games to an external drive even if it’s not set as the default installation location for new games.

    As with the PS4, you can completely replace the Xbox One’s internal hard drive with a bigger model. But it’s a much more difficult process than it is on the PS4 (see here for a great guide), requiring custom software and a lot of extra configuration, so an external drive is the way to go for the vast majority of gamers.

    The post Xbox One and PS4 storage boosts that will let you keep everything forever appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The coolest Nintendo Labo creations we could find https://www.popsci.com/cool-nintendo-labo-builds/ Sun, 23 Jun 2019 13:34:09 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/cool-nintendo-labo-builds/
    Nintendo Labo gives you new ways to play

    If you love video games and DIY, this story is for you.

    The post The coolest Nintendo Labo creations we could find appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Nintendo Labo gives you new ways to play

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    For anyone looking for a faithful DIY experience in the world of modern video gaming, all you truly need is a Nintendo Labo and its Toy-Con Garage feature.

    For the uninitiated, the Labo is a Nintendo Switch-exclusive title that lets you build your own toys out of cardboard and various other parts, including washers, rubber bands, stickers, and grommets. Each toy has its own unique minigame, whether it’s fishing, controlling a robot companion, or playing a miniature piano. The surprisingly complex suite of tools comes with the main Labo software and allows you to create your own custom inventions. If you can dream it, you can make it—as long as you’re determined enough.

    Ever since Labo made its debut, eager creators have set about bringing to life some of the coolest creations they could imagine. Many have gone above and beyond anything Nintendo had in mind, and their out-of-the-box methods are inspirational, to say the least. People are endlessly creative, and Nintendo has held several popular contests seeking the most innovative Labo applications users could think of.

    With that said, here are some of the coolest, most awe-inspiring Labo builds imaginative users have put together since it hit retail shelves.

    Automated cardboard roulette table on the Nintendo Labo

    Chalk up this creation, by YouTube user zanza_klaus, as one of the most intriguing spins on Labo you’ll find online. The fully functional table requires four Joy-Con controllers, plenty of cardboard, and smart coding that will track your score as you play. When you make a wager, reflective stickers on the backs of the chips tell the Switch which number you’ve chosen. Then, place the roulette ball, spin the wheel, and the contraption will go to work, reading reflective stickers on the little white sphere to determine which number it landed on.

    If you score three points with three correct guesses, the Joy-Con controllers will vibrate and you’ll receive a bounty of special Nintendo coins—or whatever you decide to load the table with. This intricate setup also uses a fidget spinner as part of the roulette wheel, and there can be no doubt it took plenty of effort to bring the project to fruition.

    Try the Nintendo Labo’s Game & Watch “Fire” recreation

    If you think this project looks ridiculously intricate, you’re correct. Its talented creator took the time to recreate the 1980 Game & Watch title, “Fire,” which involves firefighters using a life net in an attempt to rescue people jumping from a burning building. The Labo version of the game features a dark piece of paper with several cut-outs in the shapes of falling sprites and the rescuers who are trying to save them. The Switch itself is nestled beneath the paper, illuminating the characters as they “fall” toward the bottom of the screen.

    It’s hard enough to cut out the shapes in a way that so closely matches the original game, but it’s even harder to program the game via the Labo’s coding language. All in all, this is a good example of how the Labo can help put a modern spin on a classic game.

    Poltergust 5000

    With Luigi’s Mansion 3 on the horizon, it’s a great time to revisit one of the coolest Nintendo-centric creations made by a fan. No, this wasn’t an official Labo project. YouTube user Pikaaroon (Rare community and design intern Aaron Nielsen) created his own Poltergust—a vacuum Luigi uses to hunt ghosts in his mansion. The real-world version, similarly, lets players take part in hide-and-seek game modes in which they can find and capture “ghosts” around their homes.

    Nielsen’s Poltergust includes a cardboard outer shell worn as a backpack, real-world parts such as a vacuum hose, and custom-made pieces that have it looking as close to Luigi’s in-game weapon as possible.

    Musical cat

    People love to use the Labo to create their own instruments and musical items. This cat, as YouTube user Douglas Hoyt says in the video, is made out of cardboard, detailed with black marker, and held together with hot glue and tape. The Switch itself makes up the cat’s face, with an expressive mouth and two lines for eyes that manage to communicate an adorable, anime-style look despite its overall mech-like appearance. The little bell on its chest ties the whole creation together.

    The cat is controlled by two left Joy-Con controllers inserted into its paws, which allow it to create a full chromatic scale, depending on what button you push. And of course, its cries are different octaves of meows.

    But it’s not just the technical prowess that impresses here. It’s how well the design fits the overall Labo aesthetic and homegrown Nintendo look. It really does look like something the company could have included as one of its official Labo projects, and that’s part of what really sells it.

    Vending machine

    The Switch’s screen is just about the perfect size for miniature versions of larger mechanisms, so making a vending machine seems like a no-brainer. This particular project, by YouTube user JapaneseHacker, uses Labo’s programming to make it accept 500-yen coins and spit out candies in return. The Switch itself serves as the vending machine’s display, set inside a boxy cardboard body with a coin slot at the top right.

    The user needs to simply insert the correct coin and the program will spit out a candy from the slot beneath the screen. It happens at about the same speed as a regular vending machine, which is perhaps the most impressive part of it all. Following that, a quick “Thank You” flashes on the screen. It’s quite simple, and while there’s no way to select which candy you wish to receive, if you built it, you get to stock it.

    Solar-powered accordion

    The Nintendo Labo Variety Kit already allows players to create their own piano, but this custom project takes things to another level entirely. Built by YouTube user Momoka Kinder, the accordion uses Joy-Con controllers, reflective stickers, seven holes for the musical notes, rubber bands, and, of course, the Switch. It makes sound when the camera can no longer sense sunlight shining through a hole, and each hole can play three octaves of the same note, so players can create some pretty familiar accordion sounds.

    Seeing it in action is quite surreal, especially when you realize it’s really just a bunch of household items controlled by a Switch. You could do it too, and that’s what makes it such an awesome example of how the Switch is the perfect console for DIY projects.

    Nintendo Labo tea time

    Care for a spot of tea? You will, after playing Youtube user Joseph France’s time management game involving filling and pouring four different types of tea with specially-made cardboard teapots. Each pot has a Joy-Con controller beneath its lid that can detect when the teapot is open or being poured. In a fashion not unlike the time management game Diner Dash, you must serve Nintendo-themed teas to thirsty customers as they mill in and out of your imaginary coffee shop.

    To fill the pot, open the lid and watch the screen as the hot water level rises. Simply tilt the teapot to pour. When a customer comes in, you earn a point if you serve them on time, but you lose one if they get fed up and leave without their tea. The customers come in waves of increasing difficulty, and you’ve got to be especially efficient as you manage the pots.

    It’s a simple premise, but one that wouldn’t have been out of place in a game like the Switch’s debut party game 1-2-Switch, which had players using Joy-Con controllers to mimic answering telephones, untangling chains, or even picking locks. France also put a lot of effort into making functional teapots out of a material that isn’t exactly the easiest to work with, either, and it shows.

    Tap-A-Cat

    If there’s anything the earlier Nintendo Labo creations have shown us, it’s that people love cats and music. In that sense, then, this particular invention is, as they say, the cat’s meow. Instead of being a simple instrument, it’s actually a rhythm game that rewards you for keeping time with the music.

    With three targets that need to be pushed down in time to a tune, it’s a simple affair that took plenty of work to become functional. The targets (called plungers by YouTube user Vix Chan) are cardboard tubes wrapped with reflective infrared tape that pop in and out of the game’s makeshift box via the power of elastic bands. Once one goes down, the Joy-Con recognizes the reflective tape and tallies the plunger push. When released, the tubes spring back up and behave like regular buttons for you to continue tapping along to the game’s music.

    The Switch screen itself gets a special overlay of adorable kitty faces and sits by the sensor at the front of the machine. If you push the plungers in time with the music, you’ll eventually come out on top. It’s simple to understand and execute, but like most rhythm games, it will take some practice to master. Luckily, a crowd will cheer you on when you do well (but they’ll boo you if you don’t). With a bit of work, this fun little creation could easily turn into a more mainstream rhythm gaming experience. Given the fact that the Switch is home to several music-oriented games such as Musynx and Gal Metal, this isn’t too much of a stretch.

    Related: Game better with the Nintendo Switch OLED console

    The post The coolest Nintendo Labo creations we could find appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Hands-on with Sony’s PS5 DualSense controller https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/sony-ps5-dualsense-controller/ Tue, 27 Oct 2020 14:27:40 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/sony-ps5-dualsense-controller/
    PS5 DualSense controller
    Most of the new upgrades happen on the inside of the controller. Stan Horaczek

    New features include adaptive triggers, haptic vibration, and a more powerful speaker.

    The post Hands-on with Sony’s PS5 DualSense controller appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    PS5 DualSense controller
    Most of the new upgrades happen on the inside of the controller. Stan Horaczek

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    Video game controllers have been rumbling since the ’90s. Back then, Nintendo’s N64 Rumble Pack jiggling away in a gamepad felt slightly magical. Controller feedback has evolved since then, but Sony’s new PS5 DualSense controller feels like a leap when it comes to integrating the controller into the overall gaming experience.

    So far, our short Sony PS5 experience is limited to the Cooling Springs level of a game called Astro’s Playroom. In it, you’re an adorable robot tasked with jumping around a 3D world, collecting coins and whimsically bopping bad guys in tasks designed to familiarize players with the PS5 DualSense controller while showing off what it can do.

    From the moment the Sony PS5 DualSense controller starts vibrating, it’s obvious that the tech inside goes well beyond simple rumbling. The haptics inside feel much more pronounced than typical vibration—they’re also tighter and more responsive. Splashing into the water in the level feels different than jumping onto dry land—you might be able to tell which is which even with your eyes closed. The feeling in your hands now more closely mimics what you see on screen. This effect is even more pronounced with subtle vibrations. Each step gives you a light buzz that adapts based on the surface on which your little robot is running.

    A man's hand holding the Sony PS5 DualSense controller
    No one’s hand looks good when holding a controller in this position. Stan Horaczek

    If you have a Nintendo Switch, the vibrations should feel vaguely familiar—the system uses a similar haptic technology to Nintendo’s HD Rumble feature.

    When your character runs through a sandstorm, there’s a general rumble, but it’s augmented with tiny spikes that almost feel like individual grains of sand hitting the controller. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference. You get used to the shaking during the level, but there are moments where the power ramps up substantially to the point where it’s actually surprising. The dynamic range of the vibration is impressive.

    To augment the immersive effect from the vibration, Sony has also equipped the PS5 DualSense controller with a more powerful speaker than previous controllers. When you pick up a coin in the game, the ding comes from directly in front of you rather than all the way from the TV. It feels more like you picked up a coin. I didn’t notice how much of a difference the controller sounds made until I plugged in headphones and they went away. The controller sounds provide a 3D element that I really enjoy.

    Sony PS5 DualSense controller above the PS4 controller
    The DualSense (above) has longer grips than the PS4 controller (below). Stan Horaczek

    The level in Astro’s Playroom also showed off a little of the Sony PS5 DualSense controller’s adaptive trigger tech. You can use the shoulder buttons on top of the controller to adjust the resistance required to press them depending on in-game action. So, when your little robot buddy is in a robotic frog suit and you want to charge up his jump, you have to hold down the trigger, which increases resistance along the way.

    PS5 DualSense controller
    The layout is familiar, but it feels different as soon as you start playing the game. Stan Horaczek

    During the frog suit portion of the level, the character rocks back and forth on a spring. The Sony PS5 DualSense controller emits a creaking sound as Astro sways and the controller vibrates just slightly. While you’re playing, it feels totally natural. When you take a moment to really feel what the controller is doing, however, the subtlety is really impressive.

    Obviously, the overall impact of these controller features comes down to support in the future. This level of Astro’s Playroom is obviously designed specifically to show off the Sony PS5 DualSense controller features, but other developers will have to put in the work to make it shine like it does here. I fully expect for a horror game to use the advanced haptics to scare the hell out of me. I’m looking forward to it.

    The post Hands-on with Sony’s PS5 DualSense controller appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The Best Xbox Series X games https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-xbox-series-x-games/ Thu, 01 Jul 2021 00:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=376482
    Xbox Series X
    Stan Horaczek

    The best Xbox Series X games show off what the console can do.

    The post The Best Xbox Series X games appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Xbox Series X
    Stan Horaczek

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    BUST UP YOUR BUDDIES Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the best Nintendo Switch game for killing time in line with friends. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
    		SEE IT

    The ruler of party brawlers is also the king of killing time, assuming you have some friends with you and some extra controllers.
    PLAY, DIE, REPEAT Hades is the best Nintendo Switch game for the backseat for a few hours. Hades
    		SEE IT

    The roguelike indie darling and Game of the Year 2020 winner is beautiful with an addictive reward curve.
    GOLF FORE! EVERYONE Mario Golf: Super Rush is the best Nintendo Switch game for sitting on a bench in the park. Mario Golf: Super Rush
    		SEE IT

    Speed Golf and Battle Golf really set Super Rush apart, making the game feel less like a new iteration and more like a whole new game compared to previous Mario Golf games.

    Microsoft spent more than a year teasing out the tech and specs associated with its Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. Now that the machines have been on shelves for a while, the games have finally had a chance to catch up to all that hardware firepower these next-gen consoles offer. But, only some games can take full advantage of all that power. These games offer the best sound, graphics, and gameplay features to show off what that new console can really handle. 

    Optimizing your Xbox gameplay

    It takes a lot more than slick graphics and bleeding-edge hardware to create a fun gaming experience. The massive success enjoyed by the wonderfully whimsical Nintendo Switch emphatically proves that. But, the Xbox Series X and Series S consoles can achieve some truly impressive technical tricks. It’s not a sure thing, though. Buy the wrong games, set up your TV incorrectly, or ignore some crucial menu settings and you may miss out on your console’s full capabilities.

    Is your TV ready for this fancy new content?

    Plugging an Xbox Series X into that 15-year-old TV you bought on Black Friday is a lot like eating a perfectly cooked wagyu steak slathered in ketchup. The quality is there, but you’re ruining it right before the last step. 

    Not every TV supports the fanciest Xbox Series X features. Luckily, the console can actually check to see what your TV can handle. Go to: Settings -> General -> TV & Display Options -> 4K TV details and you’ll find a series of specs listed with checkboxes next to them. This will tell you what resolutions and framerates you can get from your TV and the cable you’re currently using.

    How HD is too HD?

    You don’t need an 8K display to take advantage. In fact, right now, there are no real native 8K games to really show off what the Xbox Series X can do. That may change in the coming years, but right now, you should have at least a 4K UHD TV to get the top-end graphics. 

    What about framerate?

    In addition to resolution, the Xbox Series X also offers improved performance when it comes to frames-per-second. High fps TVs offer smoother motion, which looks weird when you’re trying to watch a movie but makes gameplay look much better. The Xbox Series X can output up to 120 Hz (the screen refreshes 120 times each second). Some also support variable refresh rate (often referred to as VRR), which allows the video to adapt to the feed for fewer weird stuttering issues. 

    You’ll want to note what your TV can handle and keep your settings in line with what your hardware can actually handle.

    The HDMI cable and port actually matters

    There was a time when expensive HDMI cables were a scam. Now, however, the speed of your cable actually matters. In order to take full advantage of the Xbox Series X’s most advanced features, you’ll need to plug it into an HDMI 2.1 port using a high-speed HDMI cable. Both the Series X and the Series S come with the right cable, but if you swap it out for some old one you have hanging around, you may be kneecapping the machine’s performance. If you want a longer cable, make sure you order one that’s high-speed rated so you can take advantage of things like 120 Hz gaming. 

    Don’t forget to set up your audio

    In addition to its fancy visuals, the Xbox Series X can pump out impressively advanced audio tracks as well. If you’re playing through a home theater, the current-gen Xboxes support both the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X methods for getting surround sound audio. To select one of these, go into your audio settings and select the “Bitstream Out” option. That will let you pick the right type of output to match your system. 

    If you have a headset with spatial audio enabled, you can get a full surround sound experience out of them. You can enable that feature in the audio section of the settings menu, too.

    Enable HDR

    If your TV doesn’t have HDR, you’re going to miss out on some of the vivid colors and impressive contrast the tech can offer. In the early days of HDR, there was some quibbling over which format would be the winner, but you’re mostly fine buying a TV labeled “HDR” at this point without having to worry much about compatibility issues. Microsoft actually makes HDR rather simple on the Xbox Series X. The Auto HDR feature (which only works on some titles at the moment) can even add some pop to older games if you have it enabled. 

    The best Xbox Series X games

    Now that your TV is set up for optimal gaming, it’s time to pick some high-end content to feed it. Here in the early days of the console, game makers are still figuring out exactly what settings and options give players the best possible experience. Some opt for maximum resolution to draw out every meticulously crafted detail. Others focus on maximizing framerate for gameplay so smooth you’ll think you’re in the midst of the action. Here’s a selection of games that are great on their own, but also draw out some specific strengths your fancy new box of components offers. 

    The best Xbox Series X ray tracing: Watch Dogs Legion

    Watch Dogs Legion has the best Xbox Series X ray tracing.

    Ubisoft

    SEE IT

    Ray tracing only came to PC games a few years ago. Before that, movie studios used it to make extremely realistic 3D graphics for big-budget pictures. Now, the Xbox Series X supports ray tracing and this crime-happy open-world game does a great job showing it off. It’s particularly noticeable in elements like puddles. Shiny surfaces show authentic reflections as opposed to blurry blobs of color. This was one of the first games to support ray tracing on the Xbox Series X and it’s still a great way to get a feel for how big of a difference the technology makes.

    Best for showing off high frame-rate: Dirt 5

    The Dirt 5 is one of the best XBox Series X games

    Deep Silver

    SEE IT

    You’ll notice the smooth motion associated with high-frame rates the most during fast gameplay. Dirt 5 places colorful cars in mud-laden race tracks that whiz by at an absurd pace. Because the on-screen images refresh faster, there’s less room between each frame, which makes the entire experience feel more smooth. To get 120 Hz support, you’ll need to use an HDMI 2.1 port and high-speed cable, though, so make sure your TV is compatible before you try to notice the difference.

    Best HDR: Cyberpunk 2077

    One of the best XBox Series X games is Cyberpunk 2077

    WB Games

    SEE IT

    Bright lights and vivid colors set against dark backgrounds make the most out of high-dynamic-range (HDR) tech. Cyberpunk 2077 has that by the sackful. This futuristic steampunk action RPG had some issues at launch with bugs (especially on older PS4 and Xbox One consoles), but the developers have released some updates that make the gameplay much more reliable. Even from the start, the graphics have been incredible. Signs pop in the grimy city settings and all that contrast allows the game to really set a convincing mood for your in-game hacking sessions.

    Best classic to get a UHD upgrade: Halo: Master Chief Collection

    One of the best XBox Series X Games include the Halo: Master Chief Collection

    Microsoft

    SEE IT

    The Halo: Master Chief Collection goes back through the history of the franchise and revamps classic missions and maps that you may have memorized the first time around. In addition to the revamp, this title supports both 120 Hz refresh rates and 4K resolution at the same time, something not every game offers. So, whether you’re throwing your first plasma grenade or your five-millionth, that glowing purple blob of exploding goop will look great and fly through the air with the smoothest possible motion.

    Best game for next-level sound: Resident Evil Village

    One of the best XBox Series X games are Resident Evil Village

    Capcom

    SEE IT

    Horror games are scary in the dark and the latest Resident Evil is no exception. If you’re playing with your crummy TV speakers, however, you’re missing out on some truly horrifying sound design. Resident Evil supports Dolby Atmos surround sound, so when that ghoul sneaks up behind you, you’ll hear it breathing down your neck. You’ll be surprised how much that kind of location-oriented audio ups the immersion factor on just about every type of game.

    Best Xbox Series X game for kids: Ori and the Will of the Wisps

    The best Xbox Series X game for kids is Ori and the Will of the Wisps.

    Microsoft

    SEE IT

    This is one of the most beautiful video games of all time. You play as an adorable, glowing, magical creature that has to maneuver through a series of detailed cartoony landscapes with a series of simple moves. It’s challenging at times, so it’s better for slightly older kids, but it’s so nice to look at and free from realistic violence that younger kids may just want to watch along as you play. Seriously, this game is great and you should play it.

    FAQs

    Q: When will Xbox Series X be back in stock?

    Right now, we don’t know when the shortage will let up, so your best bet for getting a console is to regularly check back at popular stores until you can score one. Whatever you do, you shouldn’t pay a super-inflated price on the secondary market. They will be back in stock eventually. 

    Q: What’s the difference between Xbox Series X and Series S?

    There are a couple of key differences between Microsoft’s consoles. The $500 Series X has an optical disc drive while the $300 Series S doesn’t. The Series X is also more powerful. It has extra ram and more powerful graphics processing, which allows it to play games at higher resolutions and faster frame rates. If you have a cutting-edge TV or you want to buy something that’s relatively futureproofed, the Series X is the machine to get. 

    Q: How much does the Xbox Series X cost?

    If you can find one at a retail store, expect to pay $500 for a Series X. Extra controllers will cost you $60 and you should also factor in the price of a $15 Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which gets you access to a ton of free games (many of which are actually good) and online gaming. 

    The final word on the best Xbox Series X games

    Ultimately, the best Xbox Series X games are those you’ll have fun playing. If you want to fire up your Game Pass subscription and play Zuma 2 like it’s 1999 and you’re trying to entertain yourself on your parents’ giant PC, then have at it. If you truly want to take advantage of everything your next-gen Xbox Series X or Series S console offers, however, these games will help flex those specs.

    The post The Best Xbox Series X games appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         What is Playstation Now vs. Playstation Plus? https://www.popsci.com/reviews/what-is-playstation-now-vs-playstation-plus/ Sat, 31 Jul 2021 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=385774
    Destruction All-Stars
    Destruction Allstars debuted on PlayStation Now back in February of 2021. Sony

    Two Big, Bad Playstation Services enter. But only one service is the right service for you.

    The post What is Playstation Now vs. Playstation Plus? appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Destruction All-Stars
    Destruction Allstars debuted on PlayStation Now back in February of 2021. Sony

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    Fact: The Playstation 5 is an attractive object. So attractive, in fact, that we would not mind sitting across from the PS5 in the dimly lit corner of an old steakhouse in Brooklyn on a gloomy Friday evening as the two of us, canoodling up a storm, attempt to polish off The Lovers’ Porterhouse for two.

    However. as gorgeous as the PS5 itself is, the hardware can only live up to its massive potential with the right support. We’ve already gone over the best PS5 games for showing off what the console can do, but it’s missing a crucial element: connectivity. Enter the PS Now and PS Plus online subscriptions.

    Indeed, these stout, sturdy services, both straight from Sony HQ, can make your PS5 even more functional than it already is. 

    Before we go further, a warning: It’s easy to confuse these two services. What is Playstation Now vs. Playstation Plus? And who’s on First, Abbott? While writing this story, even our Playstation “expert” got a little tangled in the great Plus-and-Now conundrum. Take our hands and hold on tight…

    FAQs

    Q: Do I absolutely have to sign up for one of these services?

    You do not. The PS5 works fine without Plus or Now. Consider these services high-tech bells and whistles for the console.

    Q: Then, why are we even having this conversation?

    Valid question! Because Plus and Now enhance your PS5 entertainment experience substantially—as you will soon know. 

    Q: Do PlayStation Plus and PlayStation Now cost money?

    They do. Prices are ahead, promise.

    What is Playstation Plus?

    What is Playstation Plus? Playstation Plus is Sony’s premium online gaming subscription service. At its core, Plus gives you full access to online multiplayer gaming in the Playstation universe. If you want to play online multiplayer in any game (*except for free-to-play games like Fortnite, which you can access without Plus) then PS Plus is the service you’ll need. 

    In other words, if you are a diehard multiplayer gamer, then you need Plus—without question. This is how you play PlayStation online. You could install the game, maybe click around in the menus, but you can’t enjoy any of that multi-player action you’re looking for. Your Twitch viewers probably won’t be very excited about that.

    In addition to accessing the top-shelf online multiplayer experiences, Plus also offers a rotating roster of gratis games every month. Yes, we are talking about freebies. In July 2021, for example, Plus subscribers got the following games for nada: 

    • Call of Duty: Black Ops 4
    • WWE 2K Battlegrounds
    • A Plague Tale
    • Virtua Fighter 5
    • Destruction AllStars

    These games are Plus’s equivalent to the prizes found at the bottoms of cereal boxes back in the ‘80s. Knowing that you get these free games? It somehow makes the cereal taste better.

    As long as you’re a Plus subscriber, the downloaded freebies will stay snuggled up all cozy-like on your PS5’s hard drive. However, if you pull the plug on your Playstation Plus subscription? POOF. Those Plus freebies slip right back into the digital ether again.

    How much does PlayStation Plus cost?

    Choose from one of the following Plus prescribed tiers: 12 months of Plus for $59.99 USD; 3 months of Plus costs $24.99 USD; or, 1 month for $9.99 USD. 

    In other words, the more of a Plus commitment you sign up for, the more greenbacks you’ll save. We did the math for you (you’re welcome!): A 12-month PlayStation membership at $59.99 prorates to $5 per month. That’s half of the $9.99-for-one-month price of Plus. (One month for $9.99 is the least wallet-friendly deal of all.) If you like Plus, then go ahead and buy more Plus. 

    PlayStation Plus extras

    Plus also affords Plus subscribers a 100 GB cloud-based subscriber-only storage account that’s devoted exclusively to your saved games. That 100 GB of complimentary storage frees up a decent chunk of the PS5’s beefy storage—which means you can download even more games.

    There’s also a feature called Share Play which Plus subscribers have exclusive access to. Share Play allows Plus subs to “share” game experiences with pals—either for playing or watching—even if said your pals don’t actually own the shared games or have Plus subscriptions themselves. There is, however, a 1-hour time limit on Share Play; though, to be fair, as soon as your Share Play hour is up, you can promptly launch another hour (and another hour after that). Also: To play multiplayer together over Share Play, both players will, in fact, need Plus subscriptions. 

    Is it a little confusing? Sure is. Playstation seems to be ironing out the kinks in its messaging with Share Play. 

    Our advice: Check out Share Play for yourself. Try it first-hand. See if it’s something that appeals to you and your gaming pals.

    The Plus collection

    PS5 owners also get the Playstation Plus Collection library when they sign up for Plus. Yes, this is exclusive to PS5 owners. 

    Don’t have a PS5? Then you can’t access the Library. Sad face.

    The PS Plus Collection (at press time) contains 20 five-star games from the PS4’s library—with each game optimized to run on the PS5. We’re talking about God of War, The Last of Us Remastered, Bloodborne, and Batman: Arkham Knight, to name a few. 

    Yes, diehard Sony fans will have played most of these games already. Yet it’s still somehow weirdly comforting to know that these AAA games are always sitting there, off in the wings, waiting to be played/replayed—should your Gilmore Girls/Bridgerton/Cora Kai binge-party wrap up early this week.

    Finally, Playstation discounts abound on Plus—on both the hardware and software fronts. That means bargain prices galore for games, controllers, and all manner of first-party peripherals. In fact, Plus discounts happen so frequently, the discounts can more than offset the cost of the monthly subscription fee.

    Speaking of monthly subscription fees…

    PLUS PRO TIP 1: If you’re hunting for a competitive price for Plus, and you simply can’t wait for Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Taco Tuesday, the website CD Keys reliably sniffs out the best Plus deals for you like a trusty truffle pig, then delivers said deals straight to your Inbox, saving you both time and money on Plus renewals. 

    PLUS PRO TIP 2: Always “stack” Plus membership renewals. What do we mean by stack? To stack means simply this: That if you find a competitive price for a Plus subscription, then go ahead and take advantage of that competitive price. Even if your already-existing Plus subscription still has, say, four months left on it before it expires, go ahead and purchase the new Plus sub regardless—and stack it. When the already-existing Plus subscription finally elapses, the new code automatically kicks in. 

    “Stacking” Plus subs like this means that, 1. You’ll save tremendous amounts of cash, and 2. You won’t have to concern yourself with Plus renewals/truffle-pigging for great deals for a very long time.

    PlayStation Plus cards
    If you find PlayStation Plus subscription cards on sale, grab ’em. The subscription stacks and you save money. PlayStation

    Playstation Plus recap

    • Makes online multiplayer gaming possible
    • Freebie games (1-2 new titles every month)
    • 100 GB of cloud storage exclusively for saves
    • Share Play seems like a fine, if slightly confusing, concept
    • The PS Plus Collection library features 20 classic PS4 games optimized for the PS5
    • Mad discounts galore on Plus on both the hardware and software sides
    • Always stack Plus subscriptions

    What is Playstation Now?

    What is Playstation Now? Imagine Netflix but with video games instead of 1,001,780 seasons of Friends. 

    That’s the gist of Playstation Now, Sony’s other premium subscription service that’s designed from the ground-up for the Playstation line of products. Believe it or not PS Now has been around since 2014—back in the era when Pharrell’s “Happy” was playing on the boombox 24-7.

    Instead of purchasing discs in ye olde game store, Playstation Now gives you an astounding 800-plus Playstation titles from the PS2, PS3, and PS4 eras. In other words, instead of pulling on a pair of sweats and venturing to the mall, Now allows you to remain in your alfresco state—so European of you to game without a shirt—and select a new-ish game straight from your TV set.

    Sure sounds like the future, right? It is. And it isn’t at the same time. Let us explain.

    The Golden Corral of games

    Depending on who you talk to, Playstation Now is either mediocre or it’s great. 

    Your opinion depends almost entirely on the quality of the Internet service in your neighborhood. If you’ve got the fiber optics, and the advanced 1407-DZ09 router (*just made that up) then Now is great. 

    If you don’t happen to have a blazingly fast Net connection? Then Now’s lag time can become a sore spot for you real quick.

    Downloading vs. Streaming

    Costs for Playstation Now are identical to the costs for Playstation Plus: $9.99 for 1 month; $24.99 for three months; $59.99 for 1 year.

    Playstation Now supplies its subscribers with two distinct options: streaming or downloading games. Yes, some titles can be downloaded—but not all games can be downloaded. It gets confusing, and digging into the program on your own is the only real way to find out how to interact with the things you actually want.

    And if you stream? Well, things will get a bit more complicated…

    Confession: We have always been partial to Batman: Arkham Origins (Warner Bros. Games, Montreal, 2013). And we were, sincerely, over the moon to find this underappreciated title in the Now library. 

    However—and it’s a very big, however—the sole option for Origins is to stream. This means that our experience of Arkham Origins was entirely dependent on our moody Internet connection here in Toronto.

    Unlike streamed movies and TV shows, a streamed game is a two-way street; it must accommodate input from the user. If I press the X button on the Dualsense controller, then something amazing should happen on the TV screen.

    But should you attempt to stream-play a game at a particular hour—early evenings are notoriously the worst possible time of day for streaming here—lag can slow Arkham Origins to a crawl. 

    And that’s when the curse words are spoken and the parlor furniture gets overturned.

    The Fickle realm of streaming now

    Sony “recommends” an Internet speed of 5 Mbps for Now to stream at 720p.

    However, if you want to play a modern, top-tier game, then your Net connection must ideally achieve 15 Mbps minimum. For 1080p, Sony recommends download speeds of 35 MBPS (!), and uploads of 5 MBPS. If you don’t have sweet download/upload numbers like this? And you’re a hardcore gamer who appreciates super sleek, super smooth visuals? Then you will be frustrated, without question, by Now’s still-evolving technical limitations.

    Always, without question, download. 

    Especially if we’re talking about a modern AAA game (like Arkham Origins) with high-resolution graphics and plenty of action (i.e., ’splosions!) onscreen, the Downloaded version is simply going to look better, play better and, not chop like an over-caffeinated sous chef.

    Not every game on Now is available for download. This brings us to Rule 2…

    Stream at your own risk. 

    The majority of titles in the Now library are only available for streaming, i.e. you cannot possibly download them. Know that streaming—even with a solid Net connection like ours—is still a frustrating crapshoot. 

    Yes, frame rates will plummet suddenly, for no apparent reason, particularly in those early evening hours when neighborhood bandwidth is taxed. Visuals will blur unexpectedly. Lag will delay on-screen reactions by a half-second or more.

    Can you still have fun? While streaming? Even with lag? You can. Just know that if you are streaming via Now, there will be issues, and frustrations, and overturned furniture, from time to time. But, yes, streamed games, though not at their best on Now, are still largely playable.

    The first Tuesday of every month is “Now Tuesday”

    The first Tuesday of the month is when Playstation Now is updated with its flashy new games. Mark your calendars accordingly.

    Now Rule 5: Now subscriptions, like Plus subscriptions, are also “stackable.” 

    Find a good price. Buy subscriptions in multiples. Then enjoy Now for a long, long time. 

    PlayStation on your PC

    Sounds like sacrilege, we know, but playing Sony Playstation games on the machine that Bill Gates built—it’s a reality, folks. 

    Indeed, Sony’s first-party games have been quietly slipping over to PC in the last two years. Horizon: Zero Dawn (2017), previously a PS4 exclusive, is available via Steam. Expect more Sony exclusives to follow.

    If you want to experience Playstation Now on your PC, follow these instructions. Download the exclusive app from the Playstation website.

    What is Playstation Now vs. Playstation Plus?

    Playstation Now is terrific. However, it still feels like a prototype for how video games will be consumed in the future. For the moment, consider Now an ongoing work-in-progress. If you’re a hardcore gamer, Now, in its current form, is probably not for you. 

    However, if you’re a more casual gamer? Or if you’re new to gaming (or happen to be returning to gaming after a hiatus) (we all take gaming breaks from time to time)? Then Playstation Now is a fine place to start.

    The post What is Playstation Now vs. Playstation Plus? appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Change your controller’s button configuration for more comfortable gameplay https://www.popsci.com/diy/how-to-remap-controller/ Mon, 24 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=366354
    xbox-controller
    Default controls are so last year. Make your own. Totte Annerbrink/Unsplash

    Embrace your unique style by remapping your PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch controllers.

    The post Change your controller’s button configuration for more comfortable gameplay appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    xbox-controller
    Default controls are so last year. Make your own. Totte Annerbrink/Unsplash

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    The PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X/S are the hot new consoles on the block, and the Nintendo Switch is still going strong as the best handheld console more than four years after its release. If you’ve invested in one of these machines, you’ll want to make sure it’s perfectly tailored to suit you.

    One customization option you might not be aware of is the ability to remap the buttons on your controller. If you’ve found a way to use your controller that feels more natural than the default settings, or you can’t press the buttons or move the sticks in the way the manufacturer intended, you can change what each input does.

    Keep in mind that we’re not reconfiguring the controls in any individual game. The type of remapping we’re talking about will affect every game and app, as well as the interactions you have with the home screen and menus on your console.

    Remap controller buttons on the PS5

    From the home screen, navigate to Settings by selecting the cog icon in the top right corner. Choose Accessibility, Controllers, and then Custom Button Assignments.

    First, turn on the Enable Custom Button Assignments toggle switch. Then, you can go to the Switch the Left and Right Analog Sticks option, which is one of the more straightforward customizations. To make more detailed changes, select Customize Button Assignments.

    [Related: Hands-on with Sony’s PS5 DualSense controller]

    A picture of your PS5 DualSense controller will appear on screen. Select the button you want to remap, and then change its function by choosing a different button. To give the square button the functionality of the circle button, for example, select the square button on screen and then pick the circle button from the pop-up menu.

    All of your changes will appear on a controller diagram on the screen, so you can keep track of what you’ve done. Down in the bottom right-hand corner, you can select Apply to confirm your choices and go back, or Reset to put the default configuration back in place.

    Remap controller buttons on the Xbox Series X/S

    From the home screen, press the Xbox button on your controller to open the side panel, then choose Settings. Head to Ease of Access, Controller, and Button mapping.

    On the right, you’ll see a picture of your Xbox wireless controller, so you’ll always know which button you’re adjusting at any given time. You’ll also see a helpful Restore to default option underneath the picture, so you can always go back if you want to.

    On the left side of the screen, you’ll be able to pick from a few preset remapping options. These include swapping the analog sticks, flipping the trigger buttons, and inverting the Y axis on the left or right analog stick. There’s also an option to turn off controller vibration.

    [Related: The Xbox Series X offers killer gaming—if your TV can handle it]

    To remap a button, select it from the drop-down menu at the top, then choose the remap option from the drop-down menu directly below. You can remap the A button to the B button, the left trigger to the right trigger, and so on. As you make your selections, you’ll see the relevant buttons appear in green on the picture on the right.

    Alternatively, press and hold the button you want to remap on the controller itself. When prompted, press the button you’re remapping the original one to. To make the Y button act like the X button, for example, press and hold Y, and when it’s highlighted, tap X.

    Remap controller buttons on the Nintendo Switch

    From the home screen, tap the cog icon to bring up the System Settings screen. You’ll then need to choose Controllers and Sensors and Change Button Mapping.

    A list of attached controllers will appear—the left and right Joy-Con, plus any other wireless gamepads that are currently connected to the Switch. Select the controller you want to remap from the list and pick Change.

    You’ll see a diagram of your selected controller on screen. To remap a button, select it, then choose the new function you want it to have. For example, to make the B button work as the X button, select the B button first, then pick the X button.

    [Related: The best Nintendo Switch controllers for solo or party play]

    To swap the left and right sticks, for instance, or to invert the directions of the analog sticks, select Control Stick Settings. Select Done to confirm your changes.

    If you come up with a remapping profile that you don’t want to use just yet, pick Save Mapping from the main Button Mapping screen. Use Load Mapping to bring up to five different remapping profiles you’ve previously saved. There’s also a Reset option here to quickly get back to the Switch defaults, if you need to.

    The post Change your controller’s button configuration for more comfortable gameplay appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Video games feel different on the PlayStation 5, and that’s a good thing https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/playstation-5-ps5-review/ Fri, 06 Nov 2020 22:49:40 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/playstation-5-ps5-review/
    PS5 DualSense
    The DualSense controller is an excellent bit of gaming gear. Stan Horaczek

    Sony’s next-gen console has incredible graphics, but the controller is the big differentiator.

    The post Video games feel different on the PlayStation 5, and that’s a good thing appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    PS5 DualSense
    The DualSense controller is an excellent bit of gaming gear. Stan Horaczek

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    PlayStation 5 ps5 storage

    Stan Horaczek

    SEE IT

    The PlayStation 5 arrived at just the right time. Old gaming consoles were starting to feel outdated. Even the high-performance machines in their respective lineups—like the Xbox One X and the PS4 Pro—were starting to show their age. It’s 2020, after all, so why are we spending so much time staring at slowly loading screens?

    That changed this week. We’re now in the next generation of gaming consoles, and Sony’s new PS5 is an extremely impressive piece of hardware.

    Hardware

    By now, you may already know what’s inside the PS5. It has an eight-core Zen 2 processor and a 10.2-teraflop RDNA 2 GPU. But, the beauty of buying a console is that you don’t actually need to know what any of that means. Every PS5 owner has the same machine and no one ever expects you to crack it open and swap out parts to try and maintain credibility on the message boards.

    If you’re used to the PS4, you’ll notice an immediate improvement when it comes to speed after upgrading. You don’t have time to make a sandwich between pressing the power button and getting into the menus anymore. That’s due in large part to the new NVMe solid-state storage device, which is orders of magnitude faster than a spinning drive. If you do choose to remove the side panel, you can plug in a third-party SSD or buy the $220 Seagate 1 TB SSD expansion card just to make more room for PS5 games and apps. The expansion feature isn’t available just yet—it’s coming via a software update later—and the expansions still won’t be cheap for a while, but you do have the option.

    Performance

    There aren’t a ton of titles that can take advantage of the PS5′s power—at least not yet. I played through a lot of the remastered Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and it feels like a next-gen game. It doesn’t need time to load. The cutscenes pop up without a stutter and it took me just over 12 seconds to get from the menu into the game itself.

    The game natively runs at 4K 30 fps with ray-tracing enabled. Ray-tracing has been the big story in PC gaming over the past year or so—before, the tech was typically only for the motion picture industry to render high-quality digital effects, but now it’s quickly becoming the standard in terms of video games. With ray-tracing on, the game looks absurdly beautiful. Look quickly during a cutscene and you’d be totally justified in thinking it’s a movie. People still have that slight uncanny valley effect, but the graphics are incredible.

    You can kick the performance up to 60 fps, but then you lose ray-tracing. The in-game action looks smoother, but the cutscenes lose a little bit of their next-gen polish.

    Personally, I prefer running it with higher framerates, especially when it comes to swinging around from building to building. But, you can choose.

    The PS5 is seriously committed to backward compatibility. So, even if games haven’t gotten next-gen upgrades yet, you can still expect them to load a lot faster than they ever have in the past. Loading into Overwatch, as I’ve done thousands of times, felt refreshingly snappy.

    We’re still in the early stages, so only time will tell how much the power pays off. I haven’t been able to test out the super-smooth 120 Hz gameplay just yet, but it’s coming. And it will make a difference.

    The controller

    PS5 DualSense
    The DualSense controller is an excellent bit of gaming gear. Stan Horaczek

    It’s hard to overstate how much of a differentiator the new DualSense controller really is. The haptic feedback that uses pinpointed vibrations to mimic on-screen action is extremely impressive—even better than what you’ll find in the iPhone. During intense moments it can buzz hard enough to startle you a little. But, more importantly, the subtle feedback gives you ambient cues about what you should be feeling and experiencing.

    You can even tell the texture of the ground on which your character is walking without looking at the screen. It’s impressive.

    The controller also has a touchpad and motion control. A game called Astro’s Playroom comes baked into the console itself, and it’s designed to show off what the console and the controller can do. The haptics are amazing and, when used sparingly, the motion controls are fun. If you’re expecting a Nintendo Switch-like experience, you shouldn’t. The motion is simply another layer of the controller’s capabilities. Hopefully, developers will work it subtly into the game when it makes sense. I don’t see myself ever having to wave the PS5 controller around in the air like a wild person, and that’s a good thing.

    The adaptive triggers are also wonderful. It’s still truly novel to pull back on one of the controller’s shoulder buttons and meet more, or less, resistance than you would have expected. It makes shooting a bow-and-arrow that much more realistic. Developers will likely use this to great effect down the road, and I’m stoked to experience it.

    The design

    Personally, I don’t care what video game consoles look like. Unless it’s literally adorned with a picture of me that has the word “loser” scrawled underneath or it’s so large that I need to take my front door off the hinges to get it into my living room, the look and size of a gaming machine is almost entirely irrelevant to me. I imagine many gamers are in the same boat, but the PS5′s chunky body still raised a lot of eyebrows early on.

    So, what do you actually need to know about the console’s design? Yes, it’s big. It’s 15″ x 10″ x 4″ and it may not fit into your TV cabinet or gaming area or wherever it is you keep your ever-growing collection of HDMI-connected boxes. If it does fit, you’ll likely put it in there, then never think about the look of it again, especially since that controversial case design makes for excellent cooling that’s mostly silent.

    Should you buy it?

    Right now, the PS5 is still an early adopter product. The list of launch titles is still relatively sparse and, while the backwards compatibility is awesome, it probably won’t totally revolutionize the experience you have with your favorite game—at least not yet. But, it’s coming.

    If you have a fancy TV that can support the HDR graphics and high frame rates, this machine will take advantage of all of it and then some. The $500 PS5 will get you an optical drive you can use to play older games and Blu-ray discs. You can step down to the digital-only version for $399, which seems like a great deal for people who download most of their games anyway. It seems almost certain that this will be the last generation of consoles that offers disc drives built into the hardware, so maybe squeeze as much use out of your disc collection as you can now.

    While the PS5 still has a lot of growing to do, it’s obvious that it’s going to be truly great. It has lots of room to grow, and I’m looking forward to years of hacking and slashing on the PS5.

    The post Video games feel different on the PlayStation 5, and that’s a good thing appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Everything we just learned about the Sony PS5 and its games https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/playstation-5-ps5-game-preview/ Fri, 12 Jun 2020 13:58:09 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/playstation-5-ps5-game-preview/
    Sony PlayStation 5
    The PS5 ditches the straight lines for curved edges. Sony

    The PS5 looks a lot different than its predecessors.

    The post Everything we just learned about the Sony PS5 and its games appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Sony PlayStation 5
    The PS5 ditches the straight lines for curved edges. Sony

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    Video game console releases don’t work like typical gadget announcements—they happen in slow motion. We heard the first details about Sony’s new PlayStation 5 more than a year ago, but this week we finally got our first look at the hardware, as well as a bunch of new PS5 games for the system.

    The case is a departure from the PS4’s current design. Its curved sides and flared white outer layer make it very easy to discern from other consoles, including the upcoming Xbox Series X, which will adopt a very understated obelisk shape. Critics online have already laid into the PS5 for its resemblance to a high-end router and its “popped collar” on the front.

    There will be two hardware editions of the PS5: one will include an optical drive for playing disc-based games, the other will be completely digital. Sony still hasn’t announced official pricing for the console, but it seems very likely that the version with the disc drive will be more expensive. Since the PS5 promises full backwards compatibility with old games, however, it might be worth the extra expenditure when it drops.

    Unfortunately, the drive does throw off the aesthetics of the console. The digital version is very pleasingly balanced, while the drive-equipped version is chunkier on one side. Fortunately, you’ll probably forget what your console looks like after a week of owning it, so you can get your design jabs in now and then move on with your life.

    Yesterday’s event didn’t shine much new light on the technical specs, but we already know quite a bit about what will live inside that swoopy outer shell. It will use an eight-core AMD processor and a custom GPU to handle the heavy processing load involved with cranking out high-res images at fast framerates. The PS5 will also include a totally redesigned SSD technology to drastically reduce load times for games. We also know that Sony was closely involved with the development of the Unreal Engine, which could provide some truly impressive graphics and gameplay elements, especially as developers begin to explore its capabilities.

    PlayStation 5
    There are two versions of the console depending on whether or not you want an optical drive. Sony

    Back in April, Sony announced details about its new DualSense controller, which adds features such as a new haptic feedback system to replace the typical vibrations and adaptive triggers that can adjust their function depending on in-game actions. At yesterday’s event, the company also introduced a charging station for the DualSense.

    The whole package looks extremely promising, and even despite pandemic-related delays Sony is still on track for release late this year.

    In addition to the first peek at the console hardware, yesterday’s event showed off quite a few new games, some of which look quite exciting. Here are some of the highlights (note: Some of the trailers have video game violence and adult language).

    Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

    The PS4’s Spider-Man game was a hit due in large part to its absurdly fun web-swinging mechanics. The new trailer doesn’t show much in the way of gameplay, but the visuals look spectacular.

    Horizon Forbidden West

    The original Horizon: Zero Dawn game won a PopSci Best of What’s New award back in 2017 for its ability to take advantage of the PS4 Pro’s ample computing power. The follow-up looks equally impressive.

    Gran Turismo 7

    Sony’s signature driving game has always banked on hyper-realistic graphics and we don’t expect anything different here.

    GhostWire: Tokyo

    Environments are key for expansive video games and this one takes place in a haunted version of Tokyo. The PS5 should excel at rendering high-res scenery in real-time, and this game looks like a great example.

    Stray

    You play as a stray cat in a post-apocalyptic world occupied solely by robots. If you need more of a pitch than that, you may not like video games in the first place.

    The post Everything we just learned about the Sony PS5 and its games appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Sony is bringing the best part of the PS5 to VR https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/ps5-vr-controllers/ Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:30:00 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/story/uncategorized/ps5-vr-controllers/
    Sony PS5 VR controllers on white.
    The shape of the controller doesn't contour as much as some others we've seen to fit a wider range of hands. Sony

    Improved haptics and resistive triggers should make the next PlayStation VR rig more immersive.

    The post Sony is bringing the best part of the PS5 to VR appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Sony PS5 VR controllers on white.
    The shape of the controller doesn't contour as much as some others we've seen to fit a wider range of hands. Sony

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    We still don’t know what Sony has in store when it comes to virtual reality on the PS5. The old PSVR hardware will work on the PlayStation 5 with a little configuring, but players are curious what the next generation of VR gaming will look like down the line. Today, Sony brought it one step closer to reality when it announced the new PS5 VR controllers.

    The biggest upgrade to the new controllers comes in the form of the adaptive trigger tech pulled directly from the PS5 DualSense controller. The triggers can adjust how much force it takes to pull them back on the fly to match in-game action. So, if you’re using the trigger to pull back the string of a bow, the level of effort required will increase as the string matches its maximum stretch. During regular PS5 gameplay, this feature goes a long way toward making the PS5 game experience feel more immersive.

    Sony PS5 VR controllers on white.
    Lights on the controllers will allow the VR headset to accurately track their location in space. Sony

    The new PS5 VR controllers also offer similar haptic technology to the DualSense controller. Those localized vibrations help emulate the feel of performing real tasks while you’re in VR. Haptic feedback plays a large role in creating a believable VR experience, and some companies have created gloves, vests, or entire suits with strategically placed motors that recreate in-game sensations through mechanical stimuli. It seems unlikely that we’ll get a full-on PS5 VR suit any time soon, but if the controllers have received the same upgrades as the DualSense controllers, it should be a marked improvement.

    [Related: Sony’s controller makes gaming on the PS5 feel different in a good way]

    For better finger tracking, the controllers will now detect a player’s thumb, index, and middle fingers without the need to press anything, which should enable more natural gesture controls that feel more intuitive.

    A ring of lights on the bottom of each controller will allow the upcoming PS5 headset to accurately track the controllers in space. While we don’t know a lot about the forthcoming headset, Sony has already stated that it will have a wider field of view to enable a more convincing and engrossing effect. Unfortunately, Sony has also publicly stated that the new VR headset won’t hit the market until at least 2022.

    While Sony clearly has some lofty VR ambitions, it’s still going to be some time before we start to experience them in the real world. And if the PS5 supply issues have been any indication, the PS5 VR may be hard to get even once it hits the market. That makes the current VR champ, the Oculus Quest 2, seem like an even more attractive option. It’s great on its own, but now that Facebook has refined the process by which you can connect it to a gaming PC with a single cable to supercharge its performance level, it seems like a safe purchase at the moment if you want to dive into VR without waiting for Sony to get it all figured out.

    The post Sony is bringing the best part of the PS5 to VR appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The latest and greatest accessories for your Nintendo Switch https://www.popsci.com/story/shop/best-nintendo-switch-accessories/ Mon, 30 Dec 2019 15:21:36 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-nintendo-switch-accessories/
    nintendo switch on a desk
    Level-up. Enrique Vidal Flores via Unsplash

    Play your games AND leave the house.

    The post The latest and greatest accessories for your Nintendo Switch appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    nintendo switch on a desk
    Level-up. Enrique Vidal Flores via Unsplash

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    Sure, binge-watching the latest TV hit can be great. But gaming can allow you to climb inside the story, direct the plot, and experience all the consequences—good and bad—of your choices. Who wouldn’t want to carry on life in a parallel universe wherever they are? With Nintendo Switch and some smart accessories, go about your day without losing the thread of the alternate characters and realities you’ve built for yourself. Here are our favorites.

    Essential console: Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy‑Con

    Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy‑Con

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    This handheld game console weighs less than a pound and is highly versatile. When you’re at home, dock the device to your TV or computer monitor using an HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) port. No matter where you are, you can use the built-in stand to prop up the screen on any flat surface and separate the left and right controllers for multiplayer action. In the middle of a battle but have to leave for work? Keep the controllers attached and fight dragons on the train. The size of the console including the controllers is just about 4-inches wide, 9.4-inches long and .55 inches deep—slightly smaller and narrower than the standard iPad (6.8” wide and 9.8” long). Purchase games either as downloads or physical game cards and choose from a selection currently nearing 2,000.

    Console saver: amFilm Nintendo Switch Screen Protector

    amFilm Nintendo Switch Screen Protector

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    It happens to the best of us. Sometimes you just get so enthusiastic about winning you forget that you’re holding a computer screen in your hand and not a steel blade or steering wheel. This incredibly thin tempered glass screen protector (just .33mm thick) safeguards your console without compromising your graphics or touchscreen responsiveness. Before you let your first arrow fly in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, clean your screen with the included wet and dry wipes, install the protector, and enjoy a surface that’s scratch-resistant and reduces fingerprints.

    Best portable protection: iVoler Storage Case for Nintendo Switch

    iVoler Storage Case for Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Treat your console and accessories with as much respect as the gold, artillery, or treasure maps you stockpile as you play. This durable case has a hard EVA shell and room for everything you need for travel, including your dock, Pro-Controller, extra Joy-Cons, and up to 18 game cartridges. The interior is designed to cushion and hold items securely in their designated places, so you won’t forget where you stashed your HDMI cable. A comfortable handle makes it easy to carry, or you can use the shoulder strap for hands-free portability.

    Best gaming connectivity: Genki Bluetooth Adapter for Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite

    Genki Bluetooth Adapter for Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    This powerful and low-latency Bluetooth adapter works with the USB port on your Nintendo Switch, and allows pass-through charging so you can keep your wireless headset or Bluetooth speakers connected during epic gameplay. Pair up to two headsets to listen to game sound effects and musical scores without disturbing others. If you’ve docked your Switch to your TV, an included dock adapter gives you device pairing with just one extra step. Fortnite and other interactive game fans can turn on voice chat mode for live communication between players.

    Superior play: iVoler Afterglow Nintendo Switch Wireless Deluxe Controller

    iVoler Afterglow Nintendo Switch Wireless Deluxe Controller

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    This product for serious gamers allows you to customize your controller for your unique style of play, without being tethered by a cable. It’s licensed by Nintendo for the Switch, and features two large buttons on the back that can be programmed to the actions you’ll use the most for whatever game you’re obsessed with currently. Set up the LED light display for colorful effects, and take advantage of the built-in motion controls to excel at “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” and “Doom”. Recharge the battery when needed by connecting it to your Switch with a USB cable.

    Extend your play: Anker PowerCore 13400 Portable Charger for Nintendo Switch

    Anker PowerCore 13400 Portable Charger for Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    If your passion for gameplay on the road is measured in hours, you’ll want a portable charger that keeps you up and running with minimal fuss. In the event that your Switch battery is completely dead, you can revive it in about 3.5 hours with this speedy option. It’s compatible with other USB-C devices, so you can give tired laptops and iPhones some extra juice when power outlets are few and far between.

    The post The latest and greatest accessories for your Nintendo Switch appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Eight things to know about the long-awaited Xbox Series X https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/microsoft-xbox-series-x-specs/ Tue, 17 Mar 2020 19:26:23 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/microsoft-xbox-series-x-specs/
    Xbox Series X exploded
    Microsoft has revamped every internal piece for the new machine. Microsoft

    Because you don’t need to know what a teraflop is to play video games.

    The post Eight things to know about the long-awaited Xbox Series X appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Xbox Series X exploded
    Microsoft has revamped every internal piece for the new machine. Microsoft

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Xbox Series X
    The Xbox Series X won’t have the same flat box shape as previous consoles. Microsoft

    Microsoft started dropping hints about the next generation Xbox last year. This week, however, the company has released some hard specs and more information about how the Xbox Series X will actually work when it arrives for holiday 2020. The coronavirus outbreak canceled the E3 video game trade show, but that hasn’t stopped the company from outlining its upcoming hardware.

    The problem, though, is that console spec sheets can be difficult to navigate. Even if you own a PS4 or an Xbox One right now, you’d be totally justified not knowing what kind of processor it has inside, how much RAM its packing, or how many teraflops it promises (or even what a teraflop is). Here are the most important numbers you’ll need to understand regarding the upcoming Xbox Series X, and what to make of them

    8 cores

    Xbox Series X exploded
    Microsoft has revamped every internal piece for the new machine. Microsoft

    Inside the Xbox Series X, you’ll find an AMD Zen 2 eight-core CPU, each clocked at 3.8GHz. It’s a custom version of AMD’s processor, which already puts it ahead of many high-end gaming PCs when it comes to pure computing power. Bottom line: it’s fast enough that Microsoft believes it will endure for years. We’re expecting to hear from Sony about its new PS5 soon, and wouldn’t be surprised to see something similar under the hood there.

    12 teraflops

    In the real world, measuring teraflops doesn’t accomplish much for end users since it doesn’t necessarily translate directly into better everyday performance. What it does give us, however, is a rough idea of how much raw computing power lives inside of a machine and 12 teraflops is double what you’ll get in Microsoft’s current flagship Xbox One X.

    That performance comes from an AMD RDNA 2 GPU (that’s a graphics processing unit) with 52 compute units, which once again gives it more computing firepower than AMD’s consumer-grade PC graphics cards. With this much power, reports state that the Series X would be able to run four Xbox One S game environments simultaneously.

    This is also what enables the console’s ray tracing mode. It’s a familiar technique for digital graphics in movies, but it has only come to gaming in recent years. Ray tracing will drastically affect the overall look of compatible games, especially in elements like reflections, smoke, and shadows. Support will be crucial, though—PC game support for ray tracing has been slow so far.

    0 exclusive first-party launch games

    At launch, Microsoft won’t release any of its own games that run exclusively on the new platform. So, if you’re still satisfied with the performance of your older Xbox model, a fancy new title won’t twist your arm into upgrading. That will change down the road, however, as developers concentrate on taking advantage of the Series X’s extra power.

    1 TB SSD

    Xbox Series X storage cards.
    Memory cards have returned to add extra storage 1 TB at a time. Microsoft

    Storage is likely the one specification number you actually know about your Xbox, especially if your storage is constantly filling up with hefty games and updates. The Series X, however, completely rethinks the way the console handles storage. The box itself will contain a 1 TB SSD drive to replace the spinning drive that’s likely occupying your current machine. If that’s enough space, you can add 1 TB expansion cards that Microsoft has teamed up with Seagate to produce. It will also have USB 3.2 compatibility if you want to attach external storage.

    A whopping 100 GB of that built-in storage will be instantly available to the system at all times, allowing players to quickly jump between games without waiting for long load times. The demo shows players switching games and getting into the action In less than five seconds in many cases. Even if you’re using the powerful Xbox One X, that should feel very quick.

    40 seconds

    Switching between games isn’t the only area in which things have sped up. The demo video above focuses on load times. Microsoft says that its game State of Decay loads 40 seconds faster on the new machine than on the Xbox One X.

    4K HDR

    Backwards compatibility hasn’t always been a given with consoles, but Microsoft has announced its intentions to make older games work on the new Series X. With all of the computing power built-in, it will also have the ability to upscale some native 1080p games to 4K HDR to make them look better on modern TVs.

    8K

    We started to see 8K TVs creeping into mainstream manufacturer lineups back at CES this year, even though there’s almost no native content to watch on them just yet. We’re not exactly sure what kind of performance to expect at 8K—you certainly won’t get those silky smooth 120 fps frame rates with that much resolution—but Microsoft claims it has been working with the TV manufacturers for years in order to make sure displays can handle the high-resolution, as well as the variable frame rate tech that will make games look their best.

    Holiday 2020

    Xbox Series X cooling
    A new ventilation system will pull air through the machine to cool it. Microsoft

    We’re still expecting to hear more about the new Xbox Series X this coming June. That info should include some of the new games and features that will arrive at launch. We’ll also likely hear about Sony’s PS5 this week, at which point the spec sheet wars will once again go into full effect. Of course, you could always just avoid all of this and get yourself a Nintendo Switch—if you can find one in-stock.

    The post Eight things to know about the long-awaited Xbox Series X appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         The Xbox Series X offers killer gaming—if your TV can handle it https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/xbox-series-x-review/ Wed, 11 Nov 2020 19:39:13 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/xbox-series-x-review/
    Xbox Series X
    Xbox Series X isn't as big as the PS5. Stan Horaczek

    Your TV probably isn’t quite ready for the new Xbox’s maximum performance.

    The post The Xbox Series X offers killer gaming—if your TV can handle it appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Xbox Series X
    Xbox Series X isn't as big as the PS5. Stan Horaczek

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Here in the early stages of next-gen gaming, it can be tricky to see some of the benefits that machines like the Xbox Series X offer. I’ve had the console for several weeks now and have tried a number of Xbox Series X games, old and new. In my early experiences with the console, I was impressed by how snappy the game loading was—it was tremendous to have the ability to instantly resume a title I was playing without several minutes of load screens and waiting.

    But, it wasn’t until I tried the ray-tracing upgrade in the Watch Dogs: Legion that I really appreciated the difference between this generation and the previous one. It’s mostly about the reflections you see within the world of the video game, like with windows. Ray-tracing tech, or RTX, fundamentally changes the way light moves around in a game. It started creeping into PC gaming last year with Nvidia’s powerful graphics cards, but now it’s present in both Sony and Microsoft’s new consoles.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o07aWS7JpeQ//

    Ray tracing translates into much clearer and more realistic reflections in everything from shop windows to puddles. There are tons of puddles everywhere in Watchdogs: Legion, presumably because they’re a nice way to show off the fancy new graphic tech. The reflections actually represent what the in-game world looks like. The lighting is much more authentic and the scenes are more immersive. I didn’t think it would make as much of a difference as it did.

    The other impressive feature that Xbox Series X promises comes in the form of 120 frames-per-second (fps) gaming. The more times the screen refreshes every second, the smoother the on-screen motion will look. This smooth motion gets a bad rep when it comes to movies—and rightfully so—but it’s wonderful when gaming.

    In order to max out that 120 fps performance, however, you’ll need a compatible TV. Fast refresh rates will push the price up if you’re planning to purchase a new set, but it’s what you need to do in order to get the best performance out of your pricy new console.

    Even if you don’t plan to make a new TV purchase, however, the graphics still look smooth and fantastic on a typical 4K HDR display, but you’ll know that the console can do more when you’re playing. Whether you can live with that or not is up to you and your TV budget.

    Navigating around the Series X is a better experience than you’d find on older Xboxes, if only because it’s a lot snappier. It feels very familiar—Microsoft has been refining the Xbox interface for years now and you won’t find any major tripping points. The apps you’d expect to work actually do work.

    A large part of that speed comes from the new solid state drive, which loads titles in less than half the time you’d expect even on the Xbox One X, which was the most powerful edition of the previous console. While the storage is fast, it’s also limited. Games stretch over 75 GB, which quickly eats into the 800-ish usable GB of space you have when you set up the system.

    The new controller is solid, but it’s not a huge upgrade from the Xbox One controller that came before it. In fact, you can bring your old Xbox One gear over to the new machine if you want to stick with what you have. I have an Elite 2 controller that I switched back to after some time spent on the Series X sticks. If you like the Xbox One controller, the new one should feel just fine. Just don’t expect anything close to the kind of upgraded experience Sony provided with its advanced DualSense controller.

    Like the PS5, the Xbox Series X still has years to go on its lifecycle and the game selection will get much better as the months roll along. The new Halo title, for instance, got delayed from launch and won’t show up until next year.

    Right now, the Xbox Series X feels like it has a ton of untapped potential. Older titles are beginning to roll out their next-gen updates, which emphasizes how well Xbox has handled backwards compatibility. Your old games should work just fine with your new machine—in fact, they’ll load much faster.

    With 4K gaming at 60p becoming the new norm, going back to an older console feels dated. It’s not like reverting from a GameCube back to an N64, but it’s a noticeable difference. And as developers wrap their collective heads around the next-gen development rules, the games will only get smoother and better-looking.

    Eventually, the 8K gaming chops will come into play as well. Right now, 8K TVs aren’t a great buy since they command a high price premium without providing a ton of native content to watch on it. That will change, though. Last year’s CES saw 8K creeping down into manufacturer’s lineups, and that high-res trend will only continue. Once you’re ready to make the leap to 8K, the console will go with you.

    The Xbox Series X will currently set you back $500 if you can find one. They sold out quickly during pre-orders and aren’t likely to sit on the shelves of your local big box store any time this year.

    The all-digital Xbox Series S deserves its own review, but it’s an interesting machine on its own. It doesn’t have an optical drive and the internal hardware isn’t as fast, but it retails for $299. It only does 1440p instead of true 4K, and only packs a paltry 512 GB onboard storage, but it does most of what its big sibling does for 60 percent of the price. I still think it’s worth paying the extra money for the disc drive and the maximum performance if you can afford it, but don’t feel too bad if it’s not in your budget.

    If your TV is old and you don’t plan on upgrading for a while, it’s probably fine to wait it out. While the system will still look great, you may not get your money’s worth out of that old display you bought a decade of Black Fridays ago.

    The post The Xbox Series X offers killer gaming—if your TV can handle it appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Great online games to play with friends, even when you’re apart https://www.popsci.com/story/diy/multiplayer-online-games-guide/ Fri, 18 Jun 2021 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/multiplayer-online-games-guide/
    Videogame controllers
    You may not need two controllers now, but you can still play with your friends. Lweendo Hachileka / Unsplash

    Social isolation can still be fun.

    The post Great online games to play with friends, even when you’re apart appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Videogame controllers
    You may not need two controllers now, but you can still play with your friends. Lweendo Hachileka / Unsplash

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    This story has been updated. It was originally published on April 17, 2020.

    These days, we’re all spending a lot more time indoors, and some people may be having a hard time being physically cut off from friends and family. But even if you can’t be in the same room as your loved ones, you can still have a good time with them through multiplayer online games—a great way to stay in touch and have fun at the same time.

    There are a lot of options out there that offer multiplayer modes and allow you to connect with random people over the internet, though they’re not specifically designed for that. Here, we’ve picked games that were created to be enjoyed socially and are geared toward playing with people you actually know.

    Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)

    Animal Crossing
    Why live life in social isolation when you can hang out with a gardening hamster and live on your own island? Nintendo

    The latest Animal Crossing game has been a huge hit on Nintendo’s latest console and it’s easy to see why. The reflective and relaxing gameplay, the cute and cartoonish graphics, the dream of a simple life on your very own island—it’s definitely a soothing alternative to the modern age.

    If you’re completely new to Animal Crossing: New Horizons, it’s a slow-paced simulation game where you build a house and live your life on an island cultivated to your tastes. There are a lot of activities you can do with your character, from collecting creatures for the local museum to growing your own forest. But where you focus your energy is largely up to you.

    And this is where the multiplayer aspect comes in—you can accept visitors and let them wander around your home, pass the time with them on the beach, or even allow them to help you develop your island.

    Animal Crossing: New Horizons is $60 and available on Nintendo’s website.

    Draw Something (Android, iOS)

    Draw Something
    Having long turns to draw means every play can become an art piece. Zynga

    There’s a reason Pictionary is such a popular way to pass the time: It’s simple, fun, and everyone can have a go. What Draw Something does is translate that game to a mobile app that lets you play remotely with people living across the street or across the world.

    You’ll have a variety of game modes to pick from, but if you stick to the default, you’ll find it’s the same as classic Pictionary: you draw an object and see if your teammates can guess what it is in the minimum amount of time. And you don’t have to set a specific time to play—turns can be as fast or as slow as you like.

    The game lets you share your digital creations on social media too, take on individual drawing challenges, and earn points and various in-game prizes like medals—which won’t get you anything, but they’re nice to have .

    Draw Something is free with in-app purchases, and it’s available on iTunes, Google Play, and Zynga.

    Clash of Clans (Android, iOS)

    Clash of Clans
    There’s a reason Clash of Clans has been able to stick around so long. Supercell

    Clash of Clans lets you get involved in some seriously addictive digital world-building, as you develop your own sprawling village based on the resources you’ve managed to plunder from the opposing clans in the game.

    As you expand your empire, you can enlist the help of your friends and their clans, or battle them and see who emerges victorious—adding an extra layer of interest to what is already an engaging and entertaining mobile game.

    Clash of Clans may not be particularly innovative, but its long-standing popularity proves how enjoyable it is to play. Developer Supercell continues to add new content and challenges on a regular basis, so if you’ve already played this game a lot, you’re likely to find something new upon coming back.

    Clash of Clans is free with in-app purchases, and it’s available on iTunes, Google Play, and Supercell’s website.

    Monopoly (Android, iOS)

    Monopoly
    The downside of online Monopoly is that you don’t get to throw the board across the room when you lose. Marmalade Game Studio

    For many families, Monopoly is the classic board game that would get everyone sitting around the table for hours. But now, thanks to smartphones, you can continue playing even when a physical gathering is not possible.

    The basic dynamic of Monopoly needs no explanation, and it remains the same in this officially licensed mobile version. We bet it won’t be hard to convince your friends and family to download the game.

    But if they’re not available, or if you’re beating them a little too easily, you can always opt to take on random strangers from around the world.

    Monopoly is up to $4, and it’s available on on iTunes, Google Play, and Marmalade Game Studio’s website.

    Borderlands 3 (PS4, Xbox One, Windows, macOS)

    Borderlines 3
    Aliens, weapons, and adventures. What could possibly go wrong? Gearbox Software

    Some titles on this list are aimed at the casual, laid-back, occasional gamer, but Borderlands 3 is an exception. If you want to survive on a variety of alien planets, you’ll need to keep your wits about you and your weapons primed.

    Players need to gain experience, defeat marauding enemies, earn rewards and recognition, and plunder loot. A fun and engaging game, Borderlands 3 is beautifully designed and has a wide variety of settings and environments.

    Enlist the help of one, two, or three pals, and you can play as a team, which is more exciting than exploring alone. You can assign specialist roles to the other members of your team, too, using each set of individual skills to your benefit.

    Borderlands 3 is $30 and above, and it’s available on the Borderlands website.

    Red Dead Redemption 2 (PS4, Xbox One, Windows)

    Red Dead Redemption 2
    Explore the wide, solitary plains of the Wild West from the comfort of your couch. Rockstar Games

    What we like about the online multiplayer mode in Red Dead Redemption 2 is that you and your chosen posse can go at your own pace, whether that’s becoming infamous gun-slinging outlaws or simply moseying around the gorgeous scenery.

    Some advice, though: before you step into multiplayer mode, it’s well worth going in by yourself first to get a feeling for the controls, the characters, and the different environments that make up this vast digital open world. From snow-capped mountain peaks to the bustling streets of Saint Denis, you’ll have plenty to explore.

    Once you’ve gone through that, invite up to six friends and roam the Wild West together—or turn against each other, whatever seems more entertaining to you.

    The developer keeps producing new side missions and surprises, so this is a game that’s going to last you a long time.

    Red Dead Redemption 2 is $60 and above, and available on Rockstar Games’ website.

    Asphalt 9: Legends (Nintendo Switch, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS)

    Asphalt 9
    You can’t fit eight of your friends inside a Lamborghini, but you can definitely race them all at once. Gameloft

    The ninth incarnation of the long-running car racing and stunts game may well be the best one yet, with superb visuals, plenty of depth, and high-adrenaline gameplay that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

    Besides the single-player mode, you can choose to race with your buddies and earn points and honors as a team, or race against them to see who can get to the finish line first. And unless you’re really popular, Asphalt 9 should have you covered—the game allows up to eight players to compete at once.

    Kudos to the developers for the number of game modes and features they’ve managed to pack in here, too—you won’t quickly exhaust the number of challenges, customizations, and upgrades you can work through.

    Asphalt 9: Legends is free with in-app purchases, and available on the Asphalt Legends website.

    Minecraft (PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Windows, Android, iOS)

    Minecraft
    “Look, Simba. Everything the light touches is our kingdom.” Microsoft

    Minecraft is one of the most popular and successful video games of all time, period; and the open-ended construction vibe makes it especially fun to play with friends and family.

    As its name suggests, Minecraft is about mining and building, but what you build is up to you—you can go for an underground labyrinth or a majestic castle in the clouds. If simple construction is not enough of a challenge for you, you can introduce a variety of enemies and nasty creatures to defend yourself against.

    Multiplayer is almost exactly the same, except you’re mining, building, and battling with other people rather than on your own. It’s almost as good as meeting up in real life, only you’re in the digital world’s biggest sandbox.

    Minecraft is $7 and above, and available for download on the Minecraft website.

    FIFA 2020 (PS4, Xbox One, Windows, Switch)

    FIFA 2020
    Whether you call it soccer or football, FIFA 2020 is the best way to kick a ball around with friends in your living room without breaking a window. EA Games

    Multiple sports games could be included here, but few titles manage to make multiplayer as accessible or as enjoyable as the latest FIFA game.

    For a start, there’s the sheer number of multiplayer options for you and your friends to pick from—play with each other on the same team, play against each other in 11-a-side, get involved in mini matches, street soccer, special challenges, and more. It’ll definitely take you a while to run out of ways to play.

    As you would expect from a video game series that’s been going since 1993, there’s also a hugely polished and sophisticated sports simulation. It’s just about the most immersive sports experience you can get without getting up from the couch.

    FIFA 2020 is $50 and above, and available on Electronic Arts’ website.

    The post Great online games to play with friends, even when you’re apart appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

    ]]>         Far-out game console mods https://www.popsci.com/diy/article/2008-05/best-game-console-mods/ Mon, 19 May 2008 21:38:44 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-game-console-mods/
    A homemade Xbox 360 Elite laptop.
    It's an Xbox wearing a laptop skin.

    Hackers have radically transformed the latest video game consoles.

    The post Far-out game console mods appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    A homemade Xbox 360 Elite laptop.
    It's an Xbox wearing a laptop skin.

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Ben Heckendorn’s game-console creations, from a portable Atari 2600 to a pocket-sized Nintendo 64, are famous in the modder world. But he may have topped himself with his Xbox 360 Elite laptop.

    To shoehorn a full 360 into the 2.25-by-16-by-12-inch case and keep it playable, Heckendorn had to install fans and speakers and redo the internal layout of the machine several times. He then rewired the console to output the video to the 17-inch LCD display, on which he mounted an Xbox Live Vision camera for online multiplayer games.

    For the exterior, he coated the aluminum case with plastic engraving material, allowing him to paint hexagonal designs in gold on the marbled green surface. Always eager for a new challenge, and already having built a Wii laptop, Heckendorn has moved on to creating a portable version of the PlayStation 3. For details on all his game-console mods, head to benheck.com.

    Be sure to check out other far-out mods below.

    Build an Xbox 360 Elite laptop

    • Cost: $1,000
    • Time: 100 hours
    • Difficulty: easy | | | | | hard (Editor’s note: 5/5)

    1. Design an aluminum laptop case in Illustrator and have it routed on a CNC machine. “Skin” the outside with plastic engraving material, and etch the surface details with a laser engraver.

    2. Cut the Xbox Live Vision camera out of its plastic housing and mount it beneath the LCD display area. Strip a small keyboard down to its keys, circuitry, and USB hub, and install it in the case.

    3. Take apart an Xbox console, and then install its DVD drive, motherboard, hard drive and 35-millimeter exhaust fans in the laptop base.

    4. Rewire an ATX power connector to include the LCD and Xbox power signals in one plug. Handwire the HDMI converter cable to the motherboard on the LCD.

    5. Cut open some store-bought computer speakers and install one on either side of the machine, along with the audio amp.

    Other console mods

    Nintendo Wii virtual reality dome

    A person inside a museum in virtual reality.
    What you’ll see on the screen. Paul Bourke
    • Time: 20 hours
    • Cost: $38,000

    New Zealand scientist Paul Bourke made a Wiimote into a navigation device for VR installations. Now he can peruse places like the Melbourne Library in 3D, using just a few gestures.

    PlayStation 3 Las Vegas Strip

    A PlayStation 3 Las Vegas Strip.
    Almost like real Vegas. Oliver König
    • Time: 20 hours
    • Cost: $1,000

    Built to promote the game Rainbow Six: Vegas, German architect Oliver König’s mod required a graphics plotter to make the buildings’ windows. And that light at the top of the skyscraper? An LED belt buckle. Details at ccc-butterkneter.de.

    This story has been updated. It was originally featured in the June 2008 issue of Popular Science magazine.

    The post Far-out game console mods appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Guinness Got Game https://www.popsci.com/playing-around/article/2008-05/guinness-got-game/ Mon, 18 Mar 2019 21:34:19 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/playing-around-article-2008-05-guinness-got-game/
    Console Gaming photo

    The first gamer’s edition of the ultimate record book

    The post Guinness Got Game appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Console Gaming photo

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    Guinness World Records: Gamer's Edition articles

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    Used to be, when I answered my phone at work, I didn’t know what to expect. A college frat boy wanting to build the world’s largest beer bong. Ashrita Furman, a guy from Brooklyn planning to break the marathon unicycle-riding record for the greater glory of his spiritual leader, Sri Chinmoy. A woman who had toilet-trained her chameleon. I was the associate American editor for the Guinness Book of World Records, and point man in the U.S. for would-be record-breakers.

    So, two decades of gaming coverage later, you can imagine my excitement when I heard that Guinness was publishing the inaugural volume of Guinness World Records: Gamer’s Edition. This is a substantial tome, a large-format, full-color, heavily illustrated 256-page bible of electronically powered amusement. If you care about gaming, something here is going to fascinate you.

    Know who developed the first rumble-equipped controller, or wireless controller? Nintendo (N64, 1996) and Nintendo (GameCube, 2001). The first fighting game to use combos (moves requiring several buttons hit in sequence)? Street Fighter II, from Capcom. The biggest LAN party ever? It was held in Jönköping, Sweden, in November 2004, when 9,184 people on 8,521 machines tackled Counter-Strike simultaneously. What’s the best-selling game of all time? Super Mario Bros., with more than 40 million sold (it was bundled with the NES in 1985, which boosted the game’s total). The longest of Metal Gear‘s interminable cut scenes? The 15-minute, 17-second sequence in Metal Gear Solid when Snake destroys Metal Gear Rex.

    The first game that used motion capture to create accurate movement? Prince of Persia (1989): designer/programmer Jordan Mechner filmed his brother performing acrobatic moves and then traced over each frame. Which console is the most energy-efficient? It’s the Wii, hands down (18.4 watts versus 186.5 for Xbox 360 and 199.7 for PS3). Sonic the Hedgehog‘s original name? Mr. Needlemouse. The first in-game pizza-delivery system? That honor goes to EverQuest II (2005), which let you connect to the Pizza Hut online ordering system by typing “/pizza.”

    The “Most Bones Broken by a Sim Game” record listed in the book goes to an arcade machine called Arm Spirit (2007), which apparently resulted in three real-life broken arms. The first arcade machine with in-game ads? Atari’s Pole Position, a 1983 racing game. And the record for the highest production budget ever goes to Shenmue (“I’m looking for some sailors”), the Dreamcast title that cost a reported $70 million in 1999 dollars (when a million was real money).

    Of course, it’s not all skittles and beer in this first edition. For starters, the book was edited in England, which leads to odd naming problems for American readers (Sega’s Genesis console is called by its European name, the Mega Drive, for example). There’s an eight-page section called “2007 Chart” which, I’m guessing, is the U.K. sales chart, though it’s never specified (I can’t imagine that Colin McCrae: Dirt was the 14th best-selling title in 2007 anywhere else). There are lots of U.K. records, and references to the BAFTA awards (Britain’s equivalent to the Oscars). Yawn.

    Unlike the full-fledged Guinness Book of World Records, the actual records are the least interesting part of the Gamer’s Edition. There’s a section in the back listing high scores, and several speed records for racing through games to completion. These stats don’t begin to replicate the gee-whiz appeal of a guy with freakishly long fingernails, a sandwich that weighs two and a half tons, or the fastest time for a 100-meter barefoot run on ice. The Gamer’s Edition is more interesting for its cool facts and history than its statistics.

    And as a history of gaming, there are some inexplicable holes. Where are the PC text games, the glory days of Infocom and_Zork_? Or Roberta Williams and her groundbreaking Sierra games that brought text and graphics together for the first time? Why no mention of the 3DO system, the highest-powered, highest-priced console of the early ’90s, or the unique vector-graphics-based Vectrex console? How about the infamous flop that was the Atari E.T. cartridge? If you’re going to devote two pages to Grand Theft Auto, wouldn’t it make sense to at least mention the original version of the game? Scottish developers created this driving shooter with a unique top-down aerial view inspired by the helicopter coverage of O.J. Simpson’s white Bronco chase.

    Sure, it could be better, but Guinness World Records: Gamer’s Edition is still a fun, browsable volume well worth the $20. And if you think your personal achievements are just what’s needed to take this book to the next level, the rules and regs for submitting your record are posted online.

    The post Guinness Got Game appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The Evercade VS console plays vintage video games on modern cartridges https://www.popsci.com/story/gear/evercade-vs-retro-gaming-console/ Fri, 23 Apr 2021 15:28:25 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=284462
    Evercade VS video gaming console with contrtollers
    The console looks familiar to old school gamers. Blaze

    Up to four people can play the Evercade VS at once thanks to USB controllers and a host of old school titles.

    The post The Evercade VS console plays vintage video games on modern cartridges appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Evercade VS video gaming console with contrtollers
    The console looks familiar to old school gamers. Blaze

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    There are plenty of ways to play retro video games right now. Some have become smartphone apps, and emulation software can put them on your PC. Plus, most of the cartridges still work, so you can still go out and buy a physical copy if you really want to. But now, a UK company called Blaze has announced its upcoming Evercade VS console, which relies on proprietary cartridges to hold the gaming code. 

    It’s not meant to play cartridges from other manufacturers, so don’t expect to plunk your old NES games in and play. Instead, the company releases collections of officially licensed titles you may remember from retro consoles like Atari.

    A new home cartridge console

    Blaze released a handheld version of the Evercade console back in 2020. It’s a decidedly modern gadget with an HDMI port, a rechargeable battery, and a built-in 4.3-inch screen. But, it relies on cartridges for playing games. The company offered games in collections and players had to actually put the cartridge in the machine if they wanted to play. 

    The handheld version had its limitations, however. One big drawback was the lack of support for multiplayer games. That has changed with the Evercade VS. 

    The $99 Evercade VS is available for pre-order now and will reportedly start shipping in November of this year. Of course, pre-orders are always a gamble, but Blaze successfully released the original handheld version, which is a point in its favor. 

    While the Evercade VS has many modern features, don’t expect it to act like a do-everything gaming machine. It pumps out 1080p graphics, which still pushes the limits of retro games in many cases. It has built-in storage to save your game states, which are transportable over to the handheld console. The VS has wi-fi built-in, but don’t expect to use it to play online or download games. For now, it’s strictly for downloading updates. However, because it’s a connected device, Blaze could add new features in the future.

    Each console comes with a pair of familiar controllers, which are slightly more complex than the old NES controllers. There are four play buttons, two more for “start” and “select,” and a directional pad. Bumper buttons on the top of each controller help mimic control layouts from the ‘90s when things started getting more advanced. The controllers attach via USB to the front of the console.  If you buy extra controllers, it supports up to four players at once. 

    What games can the Evercade VS play?

    Unlike the retro consoles, which got very popular a few years ago, the Evercade VS doesn’t come with any built-in games. Instead, you’ll actually have to buy cartridges. The carts typically contain collections of games from specific developers. Right now, the company has more than 250 games spread across roughly 20 cartridges. 

    Cartridges purchased for the original Evercade will work in the VS’s dual slots, so if you’re already bought into the platform, this will be a natural extension. 

    The company says it’s planning on extending its offerings down the road. You obviously shouldn’t expect games that belong to Nintendo or other super-high-profile developers to hit the platform. But, that’s not necessarily the point of retro gaming in the first place. 

    It’s tempting to immediately write the concept off as a novelty. And to an extent, that’s what it is. However, it’s giving gamers a way to play officially licensed versions of old games rather than getting them from the web as sketchy ROMs. So, while you will have to pay for each title, you get some assurance that the blocky graphics and the bleep-and-bloop soundtracks you remember from long ago are faithful to the source material. 

    The post The Evercade VS console plays vintage video games on modern cartridges appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         That Black Friday TV may not be ready for your Xbox Series X or PS5 https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/next-gen-console-tv-buying-guide/ Tue, 17 Nov 2020 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/next-gen-console-tv-buying-guide/
    TCL TV for gaming consoles.
    You're going to have to step up from the super-cheap Black Friday TVs to get the best performance out of your new gaming console. TCL

    All HDMI ports are not created the same.

    The post That Black Friday TV may not be ready for your Xbox Series X or PS5 appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    TCL TV for gaming consoles.
    You're going to have to step up from the super-cheap Black Friday TVs to get the best performance out of your new gaming console. TCL

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Hook up a new Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5 to that television you got on Black Friday in 2008 and you’re not going to make the most of your fancy new gaming consoles. In fact, even relatively recent TVs won’t be able to take advantage of the fanciest modes the new generation of gaming machines bring with them. So, for many, it’s time to upgrade. But, before you drop a chunk of change on a new display, make sure it has the specs you need for gaming that’s so immersive you’ll hate the real world even more than you already do.

    Do you need to go 8K?

    Starting last year at the Consumer Electronics Show, TV manufacturers started rolling out models with 8K resolution. Until now, there has been almost no way to experience any kind of native 8K content even if you buy one of those swanky displays. The new consoles can pump out 8K, but only at 30 frames per second (fps), which means you won’t get to take advantage of the super-smooth, high-frame-rate gaming that will make a much bigger difference on your overall experience than a heap of extra pixels will.

    There’s a chance that 8K will continue to trickle down into more accessible models when manufacturers announce their new offerings in January, but a 4K display is probably still the way to go for most people who spend their time watching TV and movies through streaming sites that are firmly in the 4K camp for the foreseeable future.

    Unless you’re buying an absolutely massive TV and plan to sit extremely close to it—or you really want to enjoy the experience of bragging to your friends about your 8K gaming setup then 8K compatibility shouldn’t be a huge priority for you at the moment.

    Pay attention to your ports

    While 8K won’t matter that much, you do want to ensure that your TV has the correct kind of HDMI ports. You’re looking for HDMI 2.1 support on at least enough ports to support your new gaming consoles. Some TVs will come with a mix of newer 2.1 ports and older 2.0b connections, so make sure you plug your new gaming machine into the proper port before firing it up.

    Moving up to 2.1 provides a few essential upgrades. For one, it can handle 4K feeds at up to 120 Hz instead of 60 Hz you’ll get from 2.0b. This translates into smoother in-game motion as you play for a more realistic experience. It may not sound like much—we all gamed happily at 30 fps for years—but once you experience that kind of smooth motion, it’s hard to go back.

    Both the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 come with their own Ultra High Speed HDMI cables, which you should use when you set up your console. In the past, expensive HDMI cables were often scams to make huge profits on components that were cheap to make and didn’t have any tangible effect on the user’s experience. But HDMI 2.1 is different.

    If you use your old Xbox One cable for the Xbox Series X, for instance, you’ll lose access to the 4K 120 fps mode even if both the console and the TV can handle it.

    When looking at TV listings, you’ll sometimes have to go into the “full specs” section of the product description to get a breakdown of how many of its HDMI ports are 2.1, so make sure you look before clicking “buy.”

    How important is “game mode?”

    You’ve probably never heard of Auto Low Latency Mode (or ALLM), but you have probably seen your TV’s “game mode,” or something similar. When selected, game mode puts speed ahead of overall image quality in an effort to reduce any delay between a user pushing a button on a controller and the resulting on-screen action. This kind of latency can make games feel frustrating. Most TVs fall under 30 milliseconds—and some get even faster—but only when gaming mode is engaged.

    Plus, ALLM is part of the HDMI 2.1 spec and it automatically turns on whatever your TV calls the low-latency setting so you don’t have to manually change it every time you go from viewing to playing. Even on your current TV, you’ll still probably notice that the in-game controls feel snappier and more responsive thanks to hardware upgrades in the consoles and controllers themselves. But, an old, slow TV can get in the way of peak performance, especially if you’re trying to game in Cinema mode or some other setting that prioritizes picture quality over response times.

    Variable refresh rate

    The HDMI 2.1 spec supports variable refresh rate, which you’ll typically see referred to as VRR. Rather than refreshing the picture on-screen at a set interval—say, 60 times each second—VRR allows the TV to wait for the console to send new picture data before switching from the previous frame. Consoles tend to slow down a bit when there’s a lot happening on-screen and when it can’t keep up with the TV’s set refresh rate, you end up with judder or a wonky picture effect known as screen tearing.

    While HDMI has its own standard for VRR, chip manufacturers Nvidia and AMD have their own versions of the tech called G-Sync and FreeSync, respectively. Both the PS5 and Xbox Series X employ AMD hardware, so FreeSync-equipped TVs will maximize compatibility and possibly reduce latency a bit, but you may not ever actually notice the difference unless you’re directly comparing them in real-time—and maybe not even then. Some manufacturers, like LG, are compatible with both Nvidia and AMD’s solutions.

    What if you buy an Xbox Series S?

    While Sony made both versions of the PS5 functionally the same except for the disc drive, Microsoft varied up its Xbox options a bit. The $299 Xbox Series S lacks an optical drive, but it also doesn’t have quite as much computing power as its $499 big sibling. For instance, you can only get 120 fps gaming up to 1440p, which makes a 4K TV even more of a no-brainer over an 8K display in that case.

    How compatible are those cheap Black Friday TVs with my new system?

    If you’re going to opt for a big TV that’s cheaper than your console, you’re probably going to miss out on a lot of the features that make this console generation worth buying into anyway.

    Take this super-popular 50-inch 4K TCL TV for instance. It costs less than $300 on sale and it’s extremely tempting if you want a lot of TV for little money. Looking into the specs, however, it maxes out at 60 Hz, which means you’re not going to be able to take advantage of the 120 fps gaming, even if it had HDMI 2.1 compatible ports (which it doesn’t).

    Moving up to something like the TCL 6-series will crank the price up to $649, but it has 120 Hz performance and HDMI 2.1 so you’ll get a much more noticeable difference over your previous-generation gaming setup.

    The post That Black Friday TV may not be ready for your Xbox Series X or PS5 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Watch Sony crack open a PS5 console https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/playstation-5-teardown-video/ Wed, 07 Oct 2020 22:34:04 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/playstation-5-teardown-video/
    PS5 teardown
    Here's everything inside of a PS5. Sony

    Get a closer look at the powerful hardware inside the upcoming PlayStation 5.

    The post Watch Sony crack open a PS5 console appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    PS5 teardown
    Here's everything inside of a PS5. Sony

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    https://youtu.be/CaAY-jAjm0w/

    Sony first unveiled the final design for the upcoming PS5 console just a few weeks ago. Today, the company posted a 7-minute teardown video that gives curious gamers a look at exactly what’s happening in terms of hardware inside that swoopy exterior.

    Yasuhiro Ootori, VP of Sony’s mechanical design department, gives the thorough presentation in Japanese, but you can enable English subtitles to read along if you’re not familiar with the language.

    While Microsoft has sent out some new Xbox units to prominent YouTubers and content creators, we haven’t gotten this good of a look at the PS5 just yet. According to the video, it’s 4.1 inches wide,  15.4 inches tall, and 10.2 inches deep, which makes it a chunky bit of gear. The hardware doesn’t take up all of that space, but Sony has clearly left lots of room for airflow and a massive cooling system to help offset the enormous amount of computing power it’s cramming into a box much smaller than a typical gaming PC.

    PS5 teardown
    Here’s everything inside of a PS5. Sony

    In the past, opening pretty much any part of a console’s case would void the warranty by breaking a piece of protective tape to show that someone has been tinkering inside. That’s still the case with the PS5, but users can remove the white side panels to get at the dust traps inside. There are two dust traps on each side that can be emptied by vacuuming.

    There’s an air intake on each side, and the entire back of the machine is vented to funnel hot air away from the delicate components inside. The front of the device has a USB-C as well as a USB-A port, while the back is equipped with two USB-As, an HDMI out, a LAN port, and the power socket. There’s no optical audio out for the three other people out there besides me who care about such things.

    Once you’re under the tamper-proof seal and inside the machine itself, there’s an x86-64-AMD Ryzen Zen 2 processor with 8 cores and 16 threads running up to 3.5 GHz. The GPU runs at 2.23 GHz and delivers 10.3 TFLOPS, which is a huge leap from the current generation PS4 Pro.

    The massive 4.7-inch fan has vents on either side of the machine so it can pull in enough air to keep things cool inside. On a more granular cooling level, Sony has added a thermal layer between the chip and its heat sink to make cooling more stable—the company says this took two years to develop.

    Ultimately, it seems like Sony has gone to great lengths in order to make the internal components accessible and easy to repair. We won’t know where the system’s weakest points are until consoles are sitting under TVs in real world situations where even the best-laid cooling plans can be thwarted by dust or other environmental variables.

    Sony has also added several noise-reducing features including extra sheet metal and insulation around the disc drive itself in order to dampen vibrations. Less noise would be an upgrade since some older PlayStation models tended to produce subtle sounds similar to a jet getting ready to take off.

    Lastly, we now know what’s involved with switching the PS5 between horizontal and vertical orientations. There’s a removable base that screws on and off with a single flat-blade screw. You can’t simply tip the machine over if you want to switch, but it seems like a quick process to swap out the base. Plus, considering the size of this thing, you’ll probably want to leave it in one place once you figure out where it lives anyway.

    The post Watch Sony crack open a PS5 console appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The next Mario Kart game for the Switch involves an actual vehicle zooming around your living room https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/mario-kart-live-augmented-reality/ Sat, 12 Sep 2020 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/mario-kart-live-augmented-reality/
    Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit
    Mario Kart Live turns your house into a track. Nintendo

    Cameras mounted on the vehicles turn your living space into the Mushroom Kingdom through augmented reality.

    The post The next Mario Kart game for the Switch involves an actual vehicle zooming around your living room appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit
    Mario Kart Live turns your house into a track. Nintendo

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Nintendo could slap some cheap Mario Kart branding on just about anything and make millions of dollars with it. It’s a beloved franchise that has been entertaining gamers and occasionally ruining friendships with well-timed red shells since 1992. For the game’s latest installment, however, Nintendo has taken a technological leap and turned its adorable carting game into a full-on augmented reality experience. And so far, it looks very promising.

    The upcoming $99 Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit ships with a physical toy cart—you can choose either Mario or Luigi—that connects wirelessly to a Switch console. Each vehicle has a rechargeable battery inside and a camera mounted to the top. A series of physical gates that come in the box allow players to lay out a track on the floor.

    During the race, the camera pumps a live feed of the video to the Switch screen with digital objects (enemies, obstacles, bonus blocks) overlaid onto it. The resulting experience looks like a typical game of Mario Kart, except your own living space is the map. You can stage epic lap races around the dog bed, or plan out more elaborate routes that run the perimeter of a room.

    This isn’t a new concept by any means. DJI’s Robomaster S1 robot provided a similar racing mode—as well as several battle games that took advantage of the device’s built-in tank turret. The S1 cost more than $500 retail, however, and didn’t link up with a simple console.

    In Mario Kart Live, the cars will be able to interact with one another during the races—if a shell hits your cart in the game, the physical toy vehicle will react accordingly. We’ve seen this kind of tech before from other companies, the most notable of which was called Anki (RIP).

    Tim Cook introduced Anki to the world back at WWDC 2013. The fledgling startup showed off a product called Drive (it later became Overdrive), which included a set of toy cars that drove around a flat track on the floor. Each car connected to an iOS device via Bluetooth LE, where AI-driven algorithms helped determine their path as well as their interactions. If you wanted several cars to try and block one specific vehicle, for example, they could do so using real-time calculations rather than choreographed patterns.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qk51skVkkyg&t=191s

    Anki was different in some key ways, however. Overdrive required players to lay out a physical track that snapped together with magnets instead of simply placing down checkpoints and letting vehicles drive on the floor as they do with Mario Kart Live. The Anki vehicles also lacked cameras, so you could have controls on the smartphone screen to perform actions, but you had to watch the physical cars move around the track at all times to see the action.

    Anki shut down operations back in 2019, but other companies have tried to add AR to toy car racing. In 2018, Hot Wheels introduced its Augmoto racing platform, which used a device’s camera to add digital effects to races happening on a physical track. The experience was inconsistent, however, and sometimes downright frustrating when the AR tech stumbled and players felt like they were left playing with $120 Hot Wheels cars.

    When Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit launches on October 16th, it won’t replace the typical Mario Kart experience. If it delivers on the promises made by the announcement trailer, however, it could be another simple way to introduce players to the presently scattered world of AR gaming. Nintendo has already enjoyed success with its Labo system of cardboard controller projects. Chances are, there will be many little Marios and Luigis screaming around living room floors during this holiday season.

    The post The next Mario Kart game for the Switch involves an actual vehicle zooming around your living room appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Microsoft’s Summer Game fest will make dozens of free demos available to Xbox players https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/microsoft-xbox-game-demo-fest/ Sat, 04 Jul 2020 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/microsoft-xbox-game-demo-fest/
    Xbox Game Demo Festival
    Be honest, you want to play the skateboarding bird game. Microsoft

    Game conferences are canceled, so Xbox is bringing the event online.

    The post Microsoft’s Summer Game fest will make dozens of free demos available to Xbox players appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Xbox Game Demo Festival
    Be honest, you want to play the skateboarding bird game. Microsoft

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Before consoles made their way onto the internet, game demos came on discs. You’d get a handful of titles, each of which would allow you to play a single level or a small piece of the overall game to get you hooked. I remember one PlayStation demo disk with a level of Twisted Metal that I could have beaten blindfolded because I played it so much. 

    Now, however, demos are easily accessible via download and Microsoft is trying to fill the void left by a lack of in-person gaming conferences with its own online demo festival. The pandemic has nixed popular shows like PAX, Gamescom, and E3 where countless titles get their first chance to show their stuff. Some companies, including Sony and Microsoft, have put on digital events to show off game trailers, but MS is taking the concept one step more. 

    Between July 21st and July 27th, the Summer Game Fest will see the release of “more than 60” brand new game demos that will only be online for a limited time. 

    As the company explains in a blog post on its site, these aren’t typical demos created after the development is totally done. Instead, some will be rough versions or limited applications specifically to show off individual pieces of a title. They will appear in the demos area in the Xbox One interface, bu they will disappear once the event is over. Microsoft does point out, however, that they may eventually pop back up on an individual basis down the road. 

    The official list of demos hasn’t arrived just yet, but some high-profile titles have already confirmed their participation. That includes the quirky alien action game, Destroy All Humans!, as well as a game called Skatebird in which you’re a bird on a skateboard doing tricks around a tiny skatepark. 

    At the same time, we also found out that the upcoming NBA 2K21 game will have a $70 sticker price when it arrives later this year for the next-generation consoles. That’s a $10 increase above the $60 gamers have gotten used to and a throwback to the SNES days when a new copy of Street Fighter 2 would cost you $70. 

    On the other side of the coin, Ubisoft just unveiled its new free-to-play, battle royale game Hyper Scape with a massive launch on Twitch. Designed to compete with Call of Duty: Warzone and the upcoming Valorant, Hyper Scape is free-to-play and will slowly bleed money out of players after they’re hooked. 

    All of this makes Microsoft’s Demo Fest seem like a refreshing throwback. It’s a chance to try and navigate through too many demos or just pick one you like and play it a bunch until it’s gone. 

    While you’re waiting for the fest to start, keep scrolling for a quick recap of some of this week’s other big tech stories that you may have missed while you were grinding away on your Fortnite Battle Pass.

    The next iPhone may not come with a charger

    Some rumors claim that the next iPhone won’t have a charging port. That seems unlikely, but a more realistic report popped up this week claiming that the iPhone 12 won’t include a charger in the box. That means you’d have to shell out for a new power brick if you don’t already have six sitting around your house. In typical internet fashion, responses to the report have been split between optimism and blind rage.

    Facebook showed off its sunglasses-styled VR headset

    Virtual reality headsets are bulky and, well, pretty dorky looking. Facebook’s latest proof-of-concept headset, however, crams a full-fledged rig into a large pair of specs. They may never hit the market, but it’s nice to know they’re still working on making virtual headwear more wearable.

    Couples now have their own option for Spotify Premium subscriptions

    If you live with someone and you want to save some cash on a premium Spotify subscription, the new $12.99 couples option could come in handy. It’s only three dollars more than a single Premium account and allows two people unlimited listening privileges. It will also automatically create a Duos playlist that incorporates music you both like, which could lead to some weird mixes if you’re into Beethoven and they’re regularly rocking Cannibal Corpse. 

    The post Microsoft’s Summer Game fest will make dozens of free demos available to Xbox players appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The Star Wars: Squadrons gameplay trailer promises cross-platform starfighter battles https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/star-wars-squadrons-trailer/ Sat, 20 Jun 2020 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/star-wars-squadrons-trailer/
    Star Wars: Squadrons
    We're going on a Star Wars mission. Bring motion sickness medicine. EA

    The game only costs $40 and will let you unlock everything just by playing.

    The post The Star Wars: Squadrons gameplay trailer promises cross-platform starfighter battles appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Star Wars: Squadrons
    We're going on a Star Wars mission. Bring motion sickness medicine. EA

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Even if you’re not a huge Star Wars fan, the appeal of plunking down into an X-wing or some other slick space fighter has almost undeniable appeal. At least that’s what EA hopes for its upcoming outer space dogfight title, Star Wars: Squadrons.

    EA unveiled the first gameplay trailer for the upcoming Star Wars title at an event last night and, even with massive hype going in, the video delivered on the promised excitement. From a gameplay standpoint, it offers a single-player campaign in which you can play as a rebel or the empire. The real draw, however, lies with the multiplayer modes.

    All the multi-player offerings are team-based. There’s a basic five-on-five battle option, but the signature online play mode is more complex. It’s split up into three separate missions with various objectives, each of which requires its own specific strategy. Players can take on other human teams or work against AI.

    As for ship selection, there are four class options: fighters, interceptors, support, bombers. You can customize and upgrade your ship (as well as your pilot) with new parts and unlockable upgrades. It sounds awesome, if a little familiar, but there are some notable differences between this and EA’s typical offerings that make it particularly exciting.

    First, the game will cost $40 instead of the typical $60 and, according to the trailer, it will allow players to unlock all the custom ship parts, cosmetics, and pilot tweaks simply by playing the game. The title will also debut on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC allowing cross play between the platforms.

    If you play on PC of PlayStation 4, you can also navigate the entire game through VR. After watching five minutes of the trailer with all of the fast action and aerial maneuvers, it seems like it could get overwhelming in VR. Still the sheer novelty of flying a well-executed straighter with a high-end VR rig sounds fun.

    The game isn’t set to hit shelves until October, but there’s still a lot going on in the tech world. Here’s a quick look back at the big tech stories you may have missed this week.

    A new email app raised App Store issues for Apple

    Hey is an email service that charges $99 per year for access to its app as well as an @hey address. You have to sign up through Hey’s site in order for the app to work and there’s no way to sign up directly through the App Store, which is against Apple’s policy. The makers of Hey claim they don’t want to pay the 30-percent fee Apple would take for letting users sign up through the site and that the rules don’t equally apply to everyone. This isn’t the first time companies have taken issue with this practice, but it’s one of the louder examples to come along in some time.

    AMC movie theaters messed up their mask policy

    Earlier this week, AMC theaters announced a plan to re-open their cinemas without requiring masks. Potential viewers were angry about the decision and now AMC has changed its course, so if you want to go watch movies with total strangers, expect to cover your face while doing it.

    Fortnite had a flood

    This past Monday, millions of players logged into the cartoony Battle Royale game for a special event in which the Fortnite island map underwent some major changes. The event set viewership records on Amazon’s video game streaming site, Twitch, on which 2.3 million people watched “The Device” do its thing. So, if you have kids and they’re suddenly asking you for $11, it’s because the new season of Fortnite just hit and they want the new Battle Pass.

    The post The Star Wars: Squadrons gameplay trailer promises cross-platform starfighter battles appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         How MLB The Show became the most realistic baseball simulator https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/mlb-show-playstation-video-game-baseball-simulator/ Sun, 19 Apr 2020 20:04:46 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/mlb-show-playstation-video-game-baseball-simulator/
    Griffey Jr. MLB The show 20
    The park, and the player stats come into play when determining whether the player gets a home run or not. MLB The Show 20

    Baseball is on hiatus, but PlayStation’s long-standing game is the next best thing.

    The post How MLB The Show became the most realistic baseball simulator appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Griffey Jr. MLB The show 20
    The park, and the player stats come into play when determining whether the player gets a home run or not. MLB The Show 20

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    With the 2020 Major League Baseball season delayed, Sony’s MLB The Show 20 for PS4 is as close as any of us are going to get to the sport for the moment. For two decades, the game has earned its reputation as the most loyal baseball video game simulation, with accurate players and gameplay loyal to what you’ll see when watching a game on TV.

    This year’s version introduced a new hitting function called “perfect perfect,” which rewards players for getting the timing and the placement of a hit exactly right. But, just like in the real game of baseball, great contact on the ball doesn’t always mean a home run. “I might hit the ball as hard as I possibly can with that batter at the best launch angle,” said Chris Gill, director of gameplay and former pro baseball player, “but if I’m playing in the polo grounds and it’s 500 feet to center field, I might hit a 430 foot fly ball to the center fielder.” Not every player is capable of smashing one out that far.

    Achieving “perfect perfect” will always get you a satisfying crack off the bat—Gill says the sound was actually taken from a Cody Bellinger home run from a real MLB game—but you won’t necessarily hit a home run.

    MLB The Show is loyal to a system that tries to achieve as much realism as possible. Every year, the crew gathers three years of stats for players when it begins to curate athlete attributes. They come from the MLB as well as third-party stat companies. For pitchers, they gather familiar stats like strike-outs, pitch speeds, and pitching arsenal. Hitters get batting average, on-base percentage, and other familiar numbers. But, as stat tracking has advanced, the game integrates even more variables into its algorithms.

    MLB The Show 20 home run
    A perfect hit will get you a home run—most of the time. MLB The Show 20

    These stats also come into play when playing defense in the field. “Now we know how quickly a guy moves when the ball is hit,” he says. “A guy with a quick first step has more range. You might be a faster runner than me, but if I have a faster first step, I might get to a ball before you because you can never catch up.”

    The running speeds and pitch speeds are accurate as well. A 98 mph fastball will take the same amount of time to get to the plate in real life as it does in the game, which adds to the authentic feel. Rather than simply slowing down the ball for beginners, the game allows more leeway in when and where a batter can swing and still make contact. When you’re starting off, the window is large, but as you increase your skill level, the game can automatically adjust how lenient it is with your swings. On the hardest levels, you get very little slack. As Gill says, on the hardest level, “when you swing a little late, you’re late.”

    Honed over two decades, the algorithms and the developers implementing them have come to figure out how to make a balanced game based mostly on the numbers. But, there are outliers, and fans find them quickly once the game rolls out to the public. “Someone will tell us that a pitcher’s sinker is unhittable,” says Gill. “Then we’ll go home and play the retail version and realize that they’re right and even we can’t touch it, so we make tweaks.”

    Gregorious MLB The Show 20
    Athletes recreate player stances for motion capture by observing video footage on a screen in the studio. MLB The Show 20

    But baseball isn’t just numbers on the screen. The players need to look and even act real for the simulation to resonate. As you might expect, the studio uses motion capture in its own studio. Some athletes come in to represent themselves—typically players selected for the cover. For other players, however, the studio uses athletes to mimic batting stances and pitch deliveries. Cameras capture the movements for translation into the game.

    For the head images, an art team scans players’ heads with 3D camera equipment for more accurate depictions. The motion capture studio allows for expression tracking, which can come in handy when a player squints during a hard pitch or grunts while diving for a ball in the field.

    While the game strives for reality, modern MLB TV coverage has opened more doors to on-screen elements and high-tech replays. “Now we get things like the ball velocity coming off the bat or the spin rate with graphics on the field in instant replay,” says Gill. “We can show that stuff in the game, too. The technology they’re using in baseball is allowing us to show that, too, and still feel like a simulation.”

    That kind of authenticity can really help fill the void until your favorite team is back on the diamon.

    The post How MLB The Show became the most realistic baseball simulator appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Sony’s new DualSense PS5 controller promises more realistic tactile feedback https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/sony-ps5-controller-haptics/ Thu, 09 Apr 2020 00:23:42 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/sony-ps5-controller-haptics/
    PlayStation 5 controller is our pick for best PS5 accessories.
    It's like a PlayStation controller from the future. Sony

    Rumble is fun, but the new PlayStation controller introduces haptics and dynamic triggers.

    The post Sony’s new DualSense PS5 controller promises more realistic tactile feedback appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    PlayStation 5 controller is our pick for best PS5 accessories.
    It's like a PlayStation controller from the future. Sony

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    The new PlayStation is coming this year. We’ve known about it since 2019, but the rollout—like almost everything else in the world—has felt the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. We have some tech specs about the console itself, but now Sony has fully revealed the redesigned DualSense controller that will go with it. The buttons haven’t moved all that much, but some internal updates could make it feel much different during gameplay.

    Its overall layout remains similar. There are four triggers on top, the familiar PlayStation buttons under your right thumb, a D-pad under your left thumb, and a pair of joysticks for moving around. The touch-sensitive gesture pad at the top now takes up even more real estate than before. So, the controls are where you’d expect them, but the device itself has gotten a total refresh.

    There’s now a microphone built directly into the controller so players can chat with teammates or opponents in games, even if they’re not wearing a headset, which is a boon for quick conversations or kids who regularly break their mics.

    The biggest difference players will feel, however, comes from the new haptic system built into the controller itself. It replaces the old rumble system, which did an impressive job of making games feel more realistic. For example, PlayStation offers an example of a “gritty” feeling when you’re driving your in-game car over a gravel road with the existing controller.

    PS5 controller
    Most of the buttons remain where you’d imagine. That small button is now the “Create” button about which we don’t know very much just yet. Sony

    We don’t know exactly what the haptic hardware will look like—or feel like—inside the PS5 controller, but we’ll likely find out more as we get closer to its final release date.

    If you’re using a modern smartphone, however, you’re already used to haptic feedback on everything from button presses to game play. Apple has its own proprietary haptic feedback engine that it calls the Taptic Engine; it’s existed since the iPhone 8.

    The virtual reality gaming world has also embraced haptics by embedding motors into wearable suits that use localized vibration to emulate in-game events like getting hit by a bullet. Companies like bhaptics make full-body suits that extend onto a player’s hands, arms, and even feet. The end result is ideally a sensation that makes you feel more connected to the virtual world, for as much immersion as possible.

    PS5 controller triggers
    The triggers on top now adjust tension to mimic onscreen action. Sony

    In addition to the upgraded vibrations, PlayStation’s new controller adds responsive triggers that can adjust their tension in real-time to mimic game actions. For instance, if you’re pulling back on a bow before shooting an arrow, the triggers can offer more resistance to make it feel more realistic as you pull.

    Companies like HaptX take this concept to the extreme for virtual reality. Its gloves use built-in actuators to restrict finger movement that can actually make it feel like your hand is holding an object. Obviously, the PS5 controller can’t offer that kind of feedback with some simple triggers, but both are clearly aiming to use tactile feedback to make games feel more real.

    The full PS5 with its new controller are due out later this year.

    The post Sony’s new DualSense PS5 controller promises more realistic tactile feedback appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         The $180 Xbox Elite Wireless Controller 2 is probably better at video games than you are https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/xbox-elite-controller-2-review/ Thu, 07 Nov 2019 19:16:31 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/xbox-elite-controller-2-review/
    Xbox Elite Controller 2 triggers
    The triggers now have a textured pattern on them. It feels good, but I don't know that it offers any real advantage beyond that. Stan Horaczek

    High-end materials and lots of customization options make this for serious players only.

    The post The $180 Xbox Elite Wireless Controller 2 is probably better at video games than you are appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Xbox Elite Controller 2 triggers
    The triggers now have a textured pattern on them. It feels good, but I don't know that it offers any real advantage beyond that. Stan Horaczek

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    xbox elite controller 2
    The Xbox Elite Controller 2 requires some setup if you want to make the most of its features. Stan Horaczek


    PC gamers go to great lengths with their gear to eek out every last possible advantage they can manage during a session. Competition-grade keyboards and mice complement finely tuned graphics and control settings to such an extent that aspiring players seek out videos of pros talking about their inputs of choice. On consoles, however, the playing field is more level thanks to a relatively uniform controller.

    Some console players do look for little edges, however, and that’s where controllers like the Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 come into play. On the surface, it pretty much looks like a typical Xbox One controller. But like its predecessor, it offers a taste of the performance and tuning options not available with a stock controller.

    Xbox Elite Controller 2 Accessories

    Xbox Elite Controller 2 Accessories

    The Xbox Elite Controller 2 comes in a hard case like you’d expect with high-end wireless headphones. Inside, it stores all the accessories, including extra thumbsticks, another D-pad cover, the paddles for the back of the controller, and the tool for adjusting the stick tension.

    What is it?

    The $180 Xbox Elite Controller 2 arrives roughly four years after its $150 predecessor. Like the original model, it offers some significant upgrades over the standard version. The most notable and immediately noticeable difference sits on the back of the controller in the form of four removable paddles that played can map to specific actions. For instance, if you’re playing a first-person shooter, you can map one of the paddles to the jump command, then you don’t have to take your thumb off the joystick to press the jump button. That’s the kind of small advantage you’d have to crave to justify this expensive gadget.

    Players can also now adjust the tension of the sticks themselves. A small device that looks like a hybrid of a flat screwdriver and a nickel, which allows gamers to tweak the amount of effort it takes to move the sticks. I spent a few hours making tweaks, and then played games of Overwatch to try and find the exact sensitivity that worked for me. I think my preference is slightly tighter than the stock setting, but I found that it changed from session to session. It’s likely a result of the fact that I’m just not that good in the first place.

    Xbox Elite Controller 2 paddles.
    The paddles on the back of the controller add extra buttons. They take some getting used to. I accidentally activated them a lot when I first started playing with the controller.

    What else is new?

    A built-in, rechargeable battery is a huge upgrade for the Elite 2. Xbox One controllers drink down AA batteries quickly, and the company recommends that you don’t use rechargeable cells because of they don’t necessarily deliver the same amount of current. I still use rechargeable batteries regularly, but I’ve long wondered if it hinders performance. The Elite 2’s built-in battery charges via USB-C or wirelessly via a dock that comes in the box. It also comes with a long, braided USB-C cable. In my experience, the battery lasted forever. Even across several two-hour gaming sessions without a recharge, it didn’t flinch.

    Xbox Elite Controller 2 trigger switches
    A switch on the back of the controller allows players to tweak how far the triggers travel with each press. Shortening the travel makes for easier rapid fire mashing. Stan Horaczek

    In terms of playability, you can now shorten the travel on the trigger buttons even further. Switches on the back of the controller offer three options. The new super-short travel option allows you to press the trigger repeatedly as fast as possible, which comes in handy for games that prioritize button mashing. I found the short setting unsatisfying and stuck comfortably to the middle setting for both triggers. You can, however, change them on the fly and customize each side.

    The textured grips make it easy to hold, but they do tend to pick up grime. I let my son play with my controller for a few minutes after dinner and I had to do a little detailing afterward to clean it up.

    The accessories like the sticks, the D-pad cover, and the paddles on the back attach with a really slick magnetic latching system. They go on easily and feel sturdy. However, because they’re only on there with magnets, dropping the controller tends to send all the small pieces flying in every direction. At one point, I spent five minutes of my gaming allotment looking for the thumbstick that had blasted off under the couch.

    Xbox Elite Controller 2 triggers
    The triggers now have a textured pattern on them. It feels good, but I don’t know that it offers any real advantage beyond that. Stan Horaczek

    Who should buy it?

    At $180, the Elite Controller 2 is a big investment. We’ll likely see entire Xbox One systems for $200 on Black Friday, so spending just shy of that on a controller is a leap. The real deciding factor is whether or not you know enough about your gaming style and preferences to make the customization worth while.

    I can’t say that the controller made me a better gamer, but it feels like it could if I put the effort in. Out of the box, the controller feels sturdy, smooth, and satisfying when it comes to action on the buttons and sticks. But, expecting it to turn you into a pro-gamer is like getting a new pair of sneakers and expecting them to help you dunk.

    The post The $180 Xbox Elite Wireless Controller 2 is probably better at video games than you are appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         PlayStation 4 controllers that will enhance your playing https://www.popsci.com/ps4-controller-alternatives-upgrades/ Wed, 21 Aug 2019 23:56:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/ps4-controller-alternatives-upgrades/
    Console Gaming photo

    It’s a jungle out there, and you can’t let the Noobmaster69s of the world run you ragged.

    The post PlayStation 4 controllers that will enhance your playing appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Console Gaming photo

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    If football is a “game of inches,” then video games are a “game of microseconds.” The slightest lag can cost you dearly, so you need to be sure that the controller you hold in your hand isn’t going to lock up or miss a game-saving button mash.

    Although Sony offers a few design options for its PS4 gamers, other manufacturers have also tagged in with high-end, high-performance options to entice the hardcore (or anyone who’s thrown a standard PS4 controller against the wall in the fit of rage and now needs a replacement). These three are among the top of the list for performance, function, and style.

    Nacon Revolution Pro Controller V2

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Are you a PS4 gamer who secretly prefers the hefty Xbox controller? Suffer controller envy no longer with the Nacon Revolution. It feels less small and nimble than the standard PS4 controller, which is a bonus for people who just don’t have the finger dexterity of others—the bigger triggers and buttons make it more user-friendly. The controller also has internal memory capable of storing up to 4 gamer profiles. The thumb pads feel smooth, with good stick maneuverability–and can also be connected to a PC via Bluetooth.

    Razer Raiju Tournament Edition

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    The Razer is another controller with a chunkier design for those who prefer a little heft in their controller. But the biggest selling point is its complete customization. Through a mobile app, gamers can remap their buttons and adjust button/thumbstick sensitivity levels – it even has a “hair trigger” mode. Asymmetrical thumbstick placement feels more natural than the aligned PS4 standard and for style points, the Razer also has cool “Chroma Lighting” around its touchpad.

    SCUF Vantage

    Scuf

    SEE IT

    Although pricey, the SCUF Vantage is a fully customizable gaming samurai sword. From its springy triggers to its mappable back paddles (which can be accessed with extended index fingers – not an instinctual way of playing, but gives gamers options based on their comfort level), it’s a big-time performer. It also boasts an extremely practical bonus extra: An integrated audio touchpad that can be used to adjust the game volume on the fly or—better yet—instantly mute annoying trash talkers.

    The post PlayStation 4 controllers that will enhance your playing appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Sega’s Genesis Mini is the latest retro console to scratch the vintage video game itch https://www.popsci.com/playstation-classic-retro-video-game-consoles/ Fri, 16 Aug 2019 01:30:30 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/playstation-classic-retro-video-game-consoles/
    Console Gaming photo

    It will come with 40 games and two classic controllers.

    The post Sega’s Genesis Mini is the latest retro console to scratch the vintage video game itch appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Console Gaming photo

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    Sega Genesis Mini

    Sega

    SEE IT

    If you grew up with video games, then the titles from your childhood probably hold considerable sentimental value. It doesn’t matter what system it was, if you sunk hours of your childhood into a gaming console, it’s probably special to you.

    That nostalgia is powerful, and it has driven the relatively recent trend of retro consoles, which now includes Sega’s Genesis Mini. Scheduled for release at the end of September, the $80 miniature system will include 40 games and a pair of controllers.

    Here’s the official list of games included on the device:

    • Ecco the Dolphin
    • Castlevania: Bloodlines
    • Space Harrier 2
    • Shining Force
    • Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
    • Toe Jam & Earl
    • Comix Zone
    • Sonic the Hedgehog
    • Altered Beast
    • Gunstar Heroes
    • Earthworm Jim
    • Castle of Illusion
    • Shinobi III
    • Contra: Hard Corps
    • Sonic the Hedgehog 2
    • World of Illusion
    • Thunder Force III
    • Super Fantasy Zone
    • Streets of Rage 2
    • Landstalkers
    • Beyond Oasis
    • Ghouls ‘n Ghosts
    • Alex Kidd
    • Golden Axe
    • Phantasy Star IV
    • Street Fighter 2
    • Mega Man: The Wily Wars
    • Sonic Spinball
    • Vectorman
    • Wonderboy in Monster World
    • Virtua Fighter 2
    • Alisia Dragoon
    • Columns
    • Dynamite Headdy
    • Strider
    • Kid Chameleon
    • Light Crusader
    • Monster World IV
    • Eternal Champions
    • Road Rash II

    That’s a pretty great list of games, but there are other options out there if you want to scratch the retro button-mashing itch. Here’s a look at the other retro consoles on the market at the moment.

    NES Classic

    NES Classic

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    Nintendo is largely responsible for the current wave of stand-alone box hitting the market. When it released the NES Classic in November of 2016, it was only supposed to cost $60. The market demand crushed supplies, however, and they quickly shot up in the secondary market for hundreds of dollars.

    The appeal shouldn’t have been a surprise. After all, the collection included some of the most iconic games ever made, from The Legend of Zelda to Super Mario Bros.. Before the market was satisfied, Nintendo ended the system’s run. Earlier this year, however, Nintendo realized it could still sell systems and brought it back to store shelves for its original $60 price. Here are the titles you get:

    • Balloon Fight
    • Bubble Bobble
    • Castlevania
    • Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest
    • Donkey Kong
    • Donkey Kong Jr.
    • Double Dragon II: The Revenge
    • Dr. Mario
    • Excitebike
    • Final Fantasy
    • Galaga
    • Ghosts ‘n Goblins
    • Gradius
    • Ice Climber
    • Kid Icarus
    • Kirby’s Adventure
    • Mario Bros.
    • Mega Man 2
    • Metroid
    • Ninja Gaiden
    • Pac-Man
    • Punch-Out!! Featuring Mr. Dream
    • StarTropics
    • Super C
    • Super Mario Bros.
    • Super Mario Bros. 2
    • Super Mario Bros. 3
    • Tecmo Bowl
    • The Legend of Zelda
    • Zelda II: The Adventure of Link*

    SNES Classic

    Nintendo SNES Classic

    Nintendo

    SEE IT

    In September of 2017, Nintendo went back to the retro well to make a miniature SNES classic. At $80, its retail price is $20 higher than the NES classic, but the SNES has 21 games, including the long-lost sequel to Star Fox that was never officially released. It also came with a pair of controllers to take advantage of the Street Fighter game included on the system. Here are the games you get with this system.

    • Contra III: The Alien Wars
    • Donkey Kong Country
    • Final Fantasy VI[A]
    • F-Zero
    • Kirby Super Star
    • The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
    • Mega Man X
    • Secret of Mana
    • Star Fox
    • Star Fox 2[B]
    • Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts
    • Super Mario Kart
    • Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
    • Super Mario World
    • Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
    • Super Metroid*

    Nintendo’s Retro Controllers for Switch

    While it’s not technically a retro console, Nintendo has announced the coming availability of its official wireless NES controllers for the Switch. You’ll have to sign up for Nintendo’s Switch online service if you want to buy them, but the authentic controller is a huge part of what makes these retro consoles so appealing. So, if you’re running out of HDMI ports on your TV for new systems, buying these controllers and skipping the extra box is a solid option.

    SNK Neo Geo Mini

    If you’re a fan of Japanese retro games, the Neo Geo Mini comes with 40 classics in a box the shape of a tiny, classic arcade cabinet. You can look at the list of games and know right away whether or not they will scratch your nostalgia itch or expose you to some new (to you) classics.

    • Aggressors of Dark Kombat
    • Alpha Mission II
    • Art of Fighting
    • Blazing Star
    • Burning Fight
    • Cyber-Up
    • Fatal Fury Special
    • Garou: Mark of the Wolves
    • King of Monsters 2
    • Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle
    • Metal Slug
    • Metal Slug 2
    • Metal Slug 3
    • Ninja Commando
    • Ninja Masters: Haou Ninpou Chou
    • Puzzled
    • Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers
    • Real Bout: Fatal Fury
    • Samurai Shodown II
    • Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusas Revenge
    • Samurai Shodown V Special
    • Sengoku 3
    • Shock Troopers: 2nd Squad
    • Super Sidekicks
    • The King of Fighters 94
    • The King of Fighters 95
    • The King of Fighters 96
    • The King of Fighters 97
    • The King of Fighters 98
    • The King of Fighters 99
    • The King of Fighters 2000
    • The King of Fighters 2001
    • The King of Fighters 2002
    • The King of Fighters 2003
    • The Last Blade
    • The Last Blade 2
    • Top Hunter: Roddy & Cathy
    • Top Players Golf
    • Twinkle Star Sprites
    • World Heroes Perfect*

    Xbox

    If you’re wondering about old Xbox games, you don’t have any mini consoles to play with, but Xbox Live does allow you to play more than 500 old Xbox and Xbox 360 games if you want to buy them or you already own them. Xbox’s Game Pass (which will set you back $10 per month) also has a rotating collection of retro games you can play as much as you want as long as you’re subscribed.

    The post Sega’s Genesis Mini is the latest retro console to scratch the vintage video game itch appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         How to clean retro gaming systems https://www.popsci.com/clean-retro-game-consoles/ Fri, 09 Aug 2019 21:30:59 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/clean-retro-game-consoles/
    Console Gaming photo

    Make your console look like it’s the Christmas of 1992 again.

    The post How to clean retro gaming systems appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Console Gaming photo

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Retro consoles on a table
    Ditch the 3D graphics. Haven’t you heard? Retro is back. Lorenzo Herrera via Unsplash

    Collecting retro video game systems can be dirty work. As time goes on, there are fewer consoles in circulation, so if you want to score good deals, you’ve got to be a lot less picky about condition. Fortunately, there’s still plenty of great stuff out there in relatively good shape—you’ve just got to be willing to scrape years worth of dust from grandma’s attic off them.

    Cleaning video game consoles takes some delicacy, and you want to make sure you use the right tools and solvents, lest you damage labels and plastic. Yellowing from sunlight exposure can be a significant issue as well, and you can pick up many systems on the cheap if you know how to take care of that corn chip-colored coating.

    So if you’re looking to breathe new life into your TurboGrafx-16, look no further than this list detailing the dos and don’ts of cleaning vintage tech. You can use them for modern electronics, too, but we’ll be placing particular emphasis on the situations you’ll run into while cleaning retro consoles or computers.

    What you’ll need:

    The most important part of cleaning retro systems is making sure you have the right tools for the job. These machines contain a plethora of materials, but the primary one is plastic—usually either acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). That means you’ll need a non-corrosive solvent and very soft cleaning tools. Fortunately, the best stuff to clean old electronics is also relatively cheap.

    My recommended cleaning kit is:

    The five items above will cost you about $20 and allow you to tackle any dirty console you find. If you use everything carefully, you won’t have to worry about scratching or warping any plastic you encounter.

    Prepare yourself and your machine

    Nintendo Family Computer console
    Dive into your parent’s basement and you’ll probably find your old Nintendo. Don’t expect it to look like this, though. Franck V. via Unsplash

    We’re going to assume you’ve got a real dirty system—something that has sat in an attic, barn, or shed for years, is covered in bug poop, dust, and has an old funk to it that makes it smell like Dracula’s castle.

    Before you start a thorough cleaning, you should disassemble your console. Depending on which system you’re working on, this will take up most of the time you were planning to invest in the project.

    First, make sure you familiarize yourself with the disassembly and assembly process, which will vary in difficulty depending on the model, and may require specific tools. Do yourself a favor and run a quick Google search to see exactly how hard the job will be. Some systems, like the Super Nintendo or Nintendo 64, are relatively easy to take apart, but you’ll need to purchase a special screwdriver to do so. Others, like the Sega CDX, are held together by standard Phillips-head screws, but their complex construction makes them a huge pain to take apart and put back together.

    Nintendo Gameboy Clear and three cartridges
    If you couldn’t convince your parents to get you a GameBoy Clear, this is your chance to get up-close and personal with your console’s guts. Dimitri Houtteman via Pixabay

    I’ve never run into a system that didn’t have in-depth disassembly instructions posted somewhere—you can check enthusiast forums, Reddit, or use the Wayback Machine—but it’s still good advice not to bite off more than you can chew. Many a retro enthusiast has taken apart a console only to break a vital, hard-to-replace part during the process.

    With that said, for any restoration or cleaning process, you’ll first want to take a good, hard look at everything as you open it all up—you don’t want to have to take it apart again. Take a snapshot if you need to, because you may need to reference it later.

    Once you’ve stripped your console down, you’ll need to sort its parts into groups according to how you’re going to clean them. For parts such as regular plastic casing, you can just use a toothbrush and alcohol with impunity. With others, such as circuit boards, wires, and plastic with labels, you’ll want to be much more careful. When I’m cleaning a console, I like to sort the parts by how much attention they need. This way, I can get all the harder-to-clean stuff—with lots of nooks and crevices—done first so it has a chance to dry while I’m doing the easy bits.

    Take a good, hard look at everything

    The reason you disassembled your (presumably) super-dirty console was so you could take care of the dirt both inside and out, but also to inspect the guts of your system for damage.

    The biggest threat to a retro system’s life—especially if it was manufactured before 2000—is bad capacitors. These little cylinders of death are the bane of anyone who seriously collects retro consoles, and catching bad ones early can help save your machine.

    Most console capacitors are filled with electrolytic gel. Unfortunately, a lot of pre-fifth generation consoles (made before 2000) were built with exceptionally poor-quality capacitors to reduce manufacturing costs, and 30 years down the road, many have started leaking. The electrolytic gel inside is corrosive, which affects consoles in two ways. Obviously, a failed capacitor will prevent the system from working properly, but the leaked gel will also eat through the circuit board and cause permanent damage.

    The easiest way to tell if a capacitor is bad is if you notice a yellowish-brown residue on top of it. That means it’s leaking and you need to remove it as soon as possible. Sometimes they’ll burst directly onto the board, so make sure you examine the area around any capacitors for a poopy brown crust, which is a telltale sign you’re in for some trouble. They won’t spontaneously burst while you’re working on the console, but you’ll want to look out for those that have gone through the process in the past—no explosions to be wary of here, thankfully.

    Nintendo NES with joystick
    Yes, your NES probably looks good on the outside, but gamer gunk gets everywhere! RobinLe via Pixabay

    But before capacitors burst, they start to swell. That means you can have failed or failing capacitors with no leakage. Finding a swollen capacitor is harder than finding one that’s leaking, because the difference is often subtle. Your best bet is to mark for replacement any capacitor that doesn’t have a perfectly flat top.

    There are capacitor replacement kits available on eBay or specialized websites for even the most obscure systems, and if you can’t manage to find one, you can purchase replacement capacitors individually on Amazon for reasonably cheap. This should cost about $15 to $20 for more obscure systems, and much less for more commonly available units.

    The consoles most heavily affected by capacitor issues are early CD-based systems. In particular, the Sega CD (Model 1, especially), Sega CDX (but not the JVC X’Eye, for some reason), and TurboDuo (known as the PC Engine Duo in Japan) are the most notorious offenders. Sega Game Gears and Pioneer LaserActive PAC-S1s and N1s also have lousy reputations when it comes to capacitors. If you have a rare machine, like the LaserActive PAC units, just change the capacitors, whatever they look like. You don’t want to take the chance that a printed circuit board (PCB) on a machine with a production run of less than 50,000 is destroyed by something as weak as bum capacitors.

    Another thing to look for during your inspection is rust. PCB components won’t oxidize under normal circumstances, but if the system has been submerged in water or stored in a particularly humid location, you may be looking at some rust damage. Most of the time, it affects non-essential components like PCB shields and switches, so depending on the level of damage, you might be able to run the console without the rusted part or just clean it the best you can and live with the rust.

    Clean the circuit board

    Console circuit board
    Circuit boards are delicate. Treat them with some special TLC. studdedmagpie via Pixabay

    Now you’re ready to clean your console. I usually start with the circuit boards since they are the most fragile part and will need more time to dry than the case. Less is more when cleaning these pieces. When scrubbing your board, you want to use as little pressure as possible. Just dip your soft toothbrush in a light amount of alcohol and gently dust the entire surface of the PCB. Under most circumstances, even on a console with a filthy exterior, the motherboard isn’t going to be caked in anything. A good dust-off should be more than adequate.

    On the off-chance that your board is caked in dirt, dust, snot or whatever, you might want to think about desoldering some of the more frail components, such as through-hole capacitors and resistors (the ones that go through holes on the board, not the ones mounted on its surface), so you can scrub the board more freely. If the board is absolutely filthy, you might be better off, in the long run, replacing these parts, since they frequently cause issues if they’re damaged. You may be able to find these at hardware stores like Lowe’s, but most of them will be special-order only.

    Clean the CD drive

    If your console contains a CD drive, you’re going to want to clean it as well. A good rule of thumb here is to not actually touch anything unless you have to. Be especially aware of the adjustment potentiometers, which usually look like cross-shaped dials. Unless you know what you’re doing, don’t mess with these at all. Definitely take a picture of these before you get to cleaning, just in case you nudge one by accident.

    These little dials control the alignment, voltage, trim, and other aspects of your laser. If these are set to the wrong values, the best case is your laser won’t work well. In the worst case, the incorrect adjustments will bust the laser and you’ll need to find a new laser assembly.

    After a deep clean, the only thing you need to do with a CD drive during a routine touch-up is dab a bit of alcohol on a cotton swab and gently wash the lens. That’s it—your laser assembly will be good to go.

    Playstation one console
    Remember that round, bubble-like thing you used to blow at when your Earthworm Jim game wasn’t running? Yeah, don’t touch it. Hello I’m Nik via Unsplash

    Cleaning the console case

    Cleaning the case is the easiest part of this whole process. Most of the time, you can just go wild here. Get your paper towels out, pour a good amount of alcohol onto them, and give all the parts of the shell a good wipe-down, inside and out. This might take a few passes on particularly foul systems, but it shouldn’t take too long to get most of the enclosure looking pretty good.

    The tricky part of cleaning a system is getting into all the cracks and crevices. There will be residue and gamer gunk left in the nooks and crannies even after a good scrubbing with paper towels. When this issue presents itself, the toothbrush will likely be your best recourse. Just dunk it in alcohol and start scrubbing wherever there’s dirt left. Take it easy, though. If you scrub too hard, the bristles will bunch up and the brush will lose its effectiveness.

    If your case happens to have adhesive labels, you’ll want to avoid scrubbing those areas on your general passes. Instead, use a cotton swab and only clean the very edge surface of each decal. The main thing you want to avoid is getting under the edge. As long as the sticker remains flat, you’ll be fine.

    SupeNintendo console with Donkey Kong cartridge
    Take it easy on stickers and adhesives—you don’t want to scrub Diddy and Daisy Kong off of your cartridge. Kevin Roden via Pixabay

    After you’ve done your pass with the toothbrush, look for any remaining dirt. For tiny areas, you may need to use a cotton swab. But at this point, you should be pretty much good to go. Still, even after everything looks clean and you’ve set your toothbrush aside, give the whole case one more wipe-down with paper towels in case you stirred up any gunk.

    By now, your console should be looking near-new. There’s not a lot you can do about any existing scratches or dents, but it should, at the very least, look refreshed. If there was any yellowing, the thorough cleaning should have helped some, especially if the discoloration was from cigarette tar. If it’s from sunlight, though, you may want to leave the console disassembled—now that it’s clean, it’s a great time to put it through the Retr0bright process which can reverse damage from ultraviolet light.

    If you’re satisfied with the results of your cleaning, reassemble your console. The cool thing is: as long as you keep a clean house, you should only have to dust your system and wipe it down with a paper towel every once in a while. You shouldn’t need to do a full deep clean ever again, so you’re free to just enjoy your console and game away.

    The post How to clean retro gaming systems appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Marvel’s Spider-Man PS4 game twists physics to make web-swinging super fun https://www.popsci.com/marvels-spider-man-ps4-playstation-swinging-physics/ Wed, 05 Sep 2018 05:04:20 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/marvels-spider-man-ps4-playstation-swinging-physics/
    Spider-man

    Insomniac games started with real physics and tweaked to make swinging around the city a blast.

    The post Marvel’s Spider-Man PS4 game twists physics to make web-swinging super fun appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Spider-man

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    via GIPHY

    Video game worlds are getting big, which makes getting around them more difficult and time-consuming. Gamers want plenty of places to explore, but spending 20 real-time minutes riding around on a digital horse trying to find your next mission is frustrating.

    The new Marvel’s Spider-Man game for PlayStation 4, however, doesn’t have this problem. The map consists of a scaled-down, tweaked version of Manhattan, complete with semi-accurate neighborhoods like Central Park and the financial district. Instead of taking the subway between beating up bad guys, however, you simply swing using your web. And rather than feeling like a hassle, moving around this digital city is one of the best parts of the whole game.

    It all starts with physics

    In order to swing across the city, Spidey attaches his web to buildings along the street and swings in a motion that’s an exaggerated version of how monkeys move from one tree branch to the next. I picked up how it worked almost immediately and so did my 9-year old son. And while the swings feel authentic, they require some bending of the real-world forces.

    “Day one, we started looking at textbook pendulum motion swinging,” says the game’s director, Ryan Smith of Insomniac Games. “The biggest problem was the sideways force.” An object anchored to a building would naturally swing toward the building itself, which makes it hard to cruise down the middle of the road. To compensate, developers added an extra outward force from the building to help keep the player centered.

    It’s not realistic to create a game world with lots of overhead anchor points, so the developers made the roads slightly narrower than they would be in a scale version of real life to keep a steep angle for the swing. “The more you can connect to something that’s not too far to the side, the more controllable your swing,” says Smith. “If you want to use that sideways force to make a big, sweeping turn around a corner, you can still do it.”

    Spider-Man Dive
    The camera’s orientation in the game helps emphasize the speed at which Spidey travels. Sony

    Need for speed

    One of the most satisfying parts of the game’s swinging system is the speed at which you feel like you’re moving. “Relative speed makes you feel like you’re going faster and we do that by adding reference objects,” says Smith. “When you’re low to the ground, you’re whipping by trees and it makes you feel like you’re going even faster than you really are.”

    The in-game “camera” that tracks your character also gets in on the action when it comes to conveying speed. Smith says the developers used what they call an expressive camera that doesn’t stay glued to the hero at a fixed distance, but rather it lags and catches up at strategic times to emphasize motion.

    One move, for instance, involves throwing webs forward from a standstill and then quickly catapulting straight ahead toward an object or a perch. During this move, Spidey takes off, leaving the camera slightly behind, only for it to speed up and catch him. When the superhero dives from a high place, the camera shifts to look down and emphasize the effect of the ground coming up fast.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utVr-n0MaU0//

    “We let you drift away and then the camera catches up,” says Smith,”which helps player perception of the scene to make it feel like you’re moving fast.

    Steep swings, shallow learning curve

    Despite all of the complex math going on while Spiday is swinging, it’s actually really simple to master from a player’s perspective. Big swings in open roads are easy, but you will eventually crash into a building, and figuring out how to make that less frustrating took the developers some time.

    “You can slam into a building, but that shouldn’t stop the player. You’re not silly putty. You’re an agile, acrobatic superhero,” says Smith. When you swing into a wall, Spider-Man can run straight up the face of it to keep the momentum, then jump back off and swing in another direction. “Those things were not in the first version. We had to playtest and iterate to smooth and connect those as part of an integrated system.”

    But perhaps the most important part: swinging around is fun! Since I started playing the game, I’ve spent more time randomly swinging around than I have saving the city.

    The post Marvel’s Spider-Man PS4 game twists physics to make web-swinging super fun appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         A casual’s guide to console gaming https://www.popsci.com/casuals-guide-to-console-gaming/ Fri, 22 Dec 2017 08:04:30 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/casuals-guide-to-console-gaming/
    Console Gaming photo

    Now is a great time to be a gamer. Here's how to dive in.

    The post A casual’s guide to console gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Console Gaming photo

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    Console gaming

    Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds

    This is an artist’s depiction of you diving head-first into the world of console gaming.

    The holidays are a great time for video games. Console makers drop the prices on their machines in hopes people will give them as gifts. Kids all the way up to college are on break, so online matches fire quickly. And all the great new games are out in the world. But navigating the landscape of console gaming can be tough, especially if the last time you bought a console was when the Nintendo 64 still reigned supreme. Here’s a rundown of the current console landscape as well as some game suggestions for each platform to help you blow those sweet holiday gift cards.

    Microsoft Xbox

    Xbox One X Console

    Xbox One X

    The $500 Xbox One X is the king of Microsoft’s console lineup.

    Consoles

    Right now, you can choose between the Xbox One S and the super-high-end Xbox One X, which we reviewed here. For most people, the Xbox One S will be plenty of firepower, even if you have a fancy 4K TV with HDR, and at $200 (with a free game), it’s a lot cheaper than the $500 Xbox One X.

    Upgrading to the X will get you some advantages, like maximum frame rates and graphic qualities on games that are optimized for the platform, as well as generally faster load times pretty much across the board. It’s important to note, though, that there won’t be specific Xbox One X games that won’t play on the One S. They just might not look as nice without the X’s extra horsepower.

    Xbox Design Lab

    Xbox Design Lab controller

    You can design your own controller in the Xbox Design Lab. You probably shouldn’t pick this colorway.

    Accessories

    For $79, Microsoft Design Lab will let you craft your own Xbox One controller using a tool like the Nike ID custom shoe builder. It also offers an Elite controller, which costs $150, but offers sturdier construction, more customizable buttons, and adjustable height sticks to customize gameplay.

    Online play

    Xbox Live Gold will cost you $10 for each month or $60 for the year, and it’s pretty much a no-brainer if you’re going to use the system. In addition to access for online multiplayer games, you get free “Games with Gold” every month, as well as discounts on other Xbox purchases.

    Games to get you started

    Overwatch

    Overwatch

    Overwatch

    Overwatch is a team-based shooter that lets players choose the style that best suits their skills.

    This team-based shooter was the breakout game of 2016, but it has been selling for half-price this holiday season, which has given the game a huge infusion of new players. It has endless replay value and a rotating assortment of special event types, including an adorable snowball fight mode, to keep things interesting.

    Cuphead

    This game built hype for years before finally debuting in the fall. Its combination of extremely unique, vintage cartoon-style graphics and insanely hard gameplay make it one of the most interesting titles of 2017. Just don’t be surprised if you rage quit more than once.

    Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds

    PUBG, as it’s often referred to, was an enormous success on PC, but Microsoft brought it over to the Xbox One. In the game, you and 39 other people parachute onto an abandoned island for a last-man-standing battle. Even if you’re not very good, it’s fun to explore the terrain until someone runs you over with a jeep.

    Forza Motorsport 7

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QITXLdS3eW0

    The Forza franchise has long been a showpiece for the Xbox platform and the latest edition is no exception. Everything about it is beautiful, from the tracks to the cars, especially if you opt for an Xbox One X and you really want to show off what your fancy 4K TV can do.

    Sony PlayStation

    Sony PlayStation 4

    Sony PlayStation 4

    The PlayStation 4 has slimmed down from its original form.

    Consoles

    You also have two options when it comes to Playstation 4 consoles. The standard PS4 recently got a tummy tuck, making it thinner and lighter than before. You can expect to pay about $250 with a game. The $400 Playstation 4 Pro, however, is what you’ll need if you want to squeeze out native 4K resolution from games and streaming content.

    Like with the Xbox, both versions of the console play the same games, but the Pro will often give you an enhanced experience that’s faster and offers slicker graphics.

    Accessories

    PlayStation VR

    PlayStation VR

    Trying playing Resident Evil 7 with this thing on and make sure your friends aren’t around to take video of you screaming in terror.

    One big differentiator for the PS4 is that it supports virtual reality gameplay. The $199 headset provides a full-on VR experience that currently has more than 100 games in its lineup. Certainly not all of them are winners, but this is something that Xbox doesn’t currently offer at all.

    Online play

    The PlayStation Network has a free version, but you’ll need a PlayStation Plus account for $10 monthly or $60 yearly if you want to get full access to online play for every title. That subscription, however, does get you a couple free games a month as well as more exclusive offers like discounts on games and other media.

    Games to get you started

    Horizon: Zero Dawn

    This game made our Best of What’s New list for 2017 for its efforts to take advantage of the PS4 Pro’s extra processing power. It’s a beautiful, open-world game in which you hunt dinosaurs. Do you really need more of a sales pitch than that?

    Skyrim VR

    This open-world game sucked up hundreds of hours on regular consoles, and now you can play it in virtual reality. It’s not perfect, but it’s an entirely different, and fascinating experience.

    Cross-platform titles

    If you’re not looking for games exclusive to your platform, there were some big-name titles this year that are worth your time.

    Assassin’s Creed Origins

    Even if you’re not a tried-and-true gamer, you probably know the deal with the Assassin’s Creed series by now. It’s a beautiful, parkour-filled adventure with a heap of missions to slash-and-dive through.

    Destiny 2

    If you’re looking for a standard shooter, Destiny 2 has you covered. The game had its troubles, but it also faced extremely high expectations after the success of the first game. Expect to die a lot as you learn to play.

    Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus

    This classic franchise has been killing Nazis for decades now and the latest edition is no exception.

    Resident Evil 7

    Looking for something to play in the dark and keep you up at night? RE7 is creepier than ever.

    Injustice 2

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkQvTv_d-dA

    It was a tumultuous year for comic book heroes with movies and video games of varying success, but this high-profile sequel is a good way to virtually take out your frustrations on Batman and Superman for that train wreck of a movie last year.

    Nintendo Switch

    Nintendo Switch

    Nintendo Switch

    It was a good year for Nintendo.

    Console

    The Switch is different than the other consoles in that it’s really two machines in one. The portable 7-inch touchscreen makes it into a full-on mobile gaming system in addition to a traditional console. The trickiest part of buying a Switch is actually finding any of them in stock. There’s no “pro” version of the Switch, so $300 gets you a system in black or the more colorful red and blue.

    Accessories

    If you want to rope more people in on the gameplay fun, you’ll probably want an extra set of Joy-Con controllers which will set you back $80. For precision playing, you might also want the more standard layout of the Switch Pro controller, which will run you $70. A screen protector is also a good idea if you plan on bringing the Switch’s portable display around with you.

    Online Play

    Right now, Switch’s online components are free, but a paid system is coming in 2018, at which point you’ll need to pony up some cash to continue playing online. Something to consider if online play is important to you.

    Games to get you started

    The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

    You’d be hard-pressed to name a better game to come out in 2017 than the latest in the Zelda series. Everything from the visuals to the combat appeal to gamers at every level from filthy casuals to die-hards.

    Super Mario Odyssey

    An Italian plumber takes his magical hat into the world and adorable chaos ensues. it’s weird and wonderful, with tons of replay value.

    Splatoon 2

    Nintendo took shooting games and made them cute with the original Splatoon and the follow up continues the tradition of colorful chaos.

    Arms

    One of the first games to really show off the Switch’s capabilities is a clever fighting game that goes beyond simple punches and kicks.

    The post A casual’s guide to console gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         You don’t need an Xbox One X, but you’ll probably like it https://www.popsci.com/xbox_one_x_review/ Sat, 04 Nov 2017 02:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/xbox_one_x_review/
    Console Gaming photo

    Microsoft’s latest volley in the console war packs some serious computing power.

    The post You don’t need an Xbox One X, but you’ll probably like it appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Console Gaming photo

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    Xbox One X Review
    There’s a lot of gaming firepower packed inside those boxes. Sometimes too much. Microsoft

    When the Xbox One X first arrived at my house, my TV was too crappy to allow me to really appreciate it. There I was, hooking up the “most world’s most powerful console” to a Sony TV I bought on Black Friday eight years ago. It seemed like a waste, so I made the jump into the world of 4K TV with HDR. I didn’t need the new screen, but once it was there, I could appreciate that it was actually better. And that pretty much sums up my Xbox One X experience overall.

    What is it?

    Microsoft set out to make the most powerful console ever—and it did, at least on paper, besting the PlayStation 4 Pro, which arrived earlier this year. It has a lot of impressive-sounding technical stats, like a 74-percent increase in processor speed and six teraflops of computing power (click here if you’re curious about what a teraflop actually is). In short, it’s a lot more powerful than its predecessors.

    Xbox One X review
    Forza has long been a showpiece for the Xbox system. If you like shiny surfaces and bright colors, you’re in for a treat. Microsoft

    Testing

    If you’re coming from a regular Xbox One, you’re going to notice a difference when watching UHD (ultra high-definition) content or playing games that have been enhanced for the One X. The colors are more impressive, and the graphics are sometimes so sharp that it’s unnerving. Do I really need to see every pore and scar on the face of my Gears of War character? Well, yeah, I do, actually.

    UHD-enabled apps like Amazon and Netflix look similarly impressive, but that was the case with the Xbox One S, too. Load times for games are shorter on the One X, especially on legacy titles like Cuphead and Overwatch.

    The entire Xbox experience feels pretty much the same, just slightly better.

    What can I actually play on it?

    Right now, the list of games optimized for Xbox One X is small. I mostly played Gears of War 4, because it’s full of dark shadows and bright explosions, which really hammer home the fancy visuals. The list of optimized games is growing all the time, but that’s where the Xbox platform runs into a bit of a hiccup.

    While the Xbox One X is a new console, it’s not a new platform. Developers are encouraged to enhance games to take advantage of the full power, but it’s not a mandatory transition. Microsoft says optimized games will still look better, even on 1080p TVs, and it’s true, they do. This is because the One X uses a technique called super-sampling, which renders the visuals at full-resolution, then scales them down for the lower-res display. As a result, you still get improved shadows and crisper edges, but it’s not nearly as noticeable as it is on a UHD TV.

    Gears of War 4 Xbox One X
    The close-ups feel extra close with ultra-HD graphics. Microsoft

    If you don’t have a really nice TV, the Xbox One X is total overkill, especially when you consider the roughly $220 premium it commands over the very capable Xbox One S.

    It’s also worth noting that the games optimized for UHD play can take up more than 100GB of storage each. Both Forza 7 and Gears of War 4 were over the century mark, which means the 1 TB hard drive in the Xbox One X fills up quickly.

    Is it a good streaming box?

    According to Microsoft, Xbox users spend roughly 40 percent of their time doing things other than playing Xbox games. For its price, you can get the Xbox One S, and Apple TV 4K, and still have some money left over to buy a digital copy of Baby Driver (which is really good, if you haven’t seen it). For that price, it should be able to stand on its own as the only streaming box you need, but it’s not quite there yet.

    The biggest quibble I have is navigating the Xbox menus. The latest update has actually made the Xbox interface a lot more intuitive, but using a controller as the primary input feels like an outdated way to do things. I’m used to having the option of an app to control things if I can’t find the remote and I really missed that here.

    The content selection in the Xbox store when it comes to UHD content is lacking compared to others, especially iTunes. If you want to watch Wonder Woman through the Xbox Store, for instance, you’ll have to buy it for $20, as there’s no rental option. Other channels provide good alternatives, but it makes for a messier experience.

    4K Blu-rays look rather amazing if your TV is set up to maximize the picture quality. In 2017, inserting discs to watch content feels downright archaic, but it’s worth the effort for the extra fidelity if you really want to appreciate something with impressive visuals.

    Super Lucky's Tale
    Did I mention that the colors are bright? Games like Super Lucky’s Tale have lots of them. Microsoft

    Design

    I’m breaking a gear writer commandment here and saying that I don’t care about the design of the Xbox One X. I put it in the cabinet below my TV and I haven’t seen it since. It’s unobtrusive, black, and relatively quiet. If you don’t like it, you could easily decorate it with a Sharpie or maybe some festive stickers, then go back to looking at the screen where the fun stuff lives.

    The controller is the same streamlined design you’ll find packed with the Xbox One S. The changes in shape and texture are subtle, but pleasant. One plus for the One X is that some games will eventually support keyboard and mouse input for an experience that more closely mimics a PC.

    Who is this thing for?

    The Xbox One X is not for everyone, and Microsoft clearly knows that. It’s also not a true replacement for a high-end PC gaming rig—just ask any die-hard PC gamer and they will tell you all about it. But, it makes sense for people like me. I like shiny new things and the Xbox One X doesn’t feel like a console that will be woefully out of date in a year. The differences aren’t earth-shaking, but they are tangible, and it gets me close enough to PC performance without having to worry about building or buying a gaming machine.

    The future of the Xbox One X also seems intriguing. There’s clearly enough power built into this thing to push a virtual reality experience like PlayStation currently offers, but we’ll have to wait and see if that comes to fruition. For now, buying an Xbox One X means not having to think about buying another console for a long time.

    The post You don’t need an Xbox One X, but you’ll probably like it appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Updated: Every game available for Nintendo Switch https://www.popsci.com/every-game-available-for-nintendo-switch-2/ Fri, 27 Oct 2017 00:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/every-game-available-for-nintendo-switch/
    Nintendo Switch Games
    All the Nintendo Switch games in one place. Amazon

    The definitive list, continually updated. Part two.

    The post Updated: Every game available for Nintendo Switch appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Nintendo Switch Games
    All the Nintendo Switch games in one place. Amazon

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    It’s hard to keep up with new game releases, so we’re doing it for you. This is our second running list. To be totally transparent: the first one was getting so long, it was becoming a big pain to work with on the backend. Anyway, here’s a continuation of that grand list of Nintendo Switch games currently on sale. We will do our best to keep it as up to date as possible.

    We will also be updating you on useful Nintendo Switch gear and accessories. Here are our favorites at the moment:

    Just Dance 2018

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Just Dance for Switch comes with 40 tracks—including Despacito—as well as more than 300 songs available for download if you sign up for Just Dance Unlimited. The game comes with a three-month trial to the service. It’s not just a game. It’s also a workout.

    Just Dance 2018. October 24. Amazon; $60.

    Knight Terrors
    Knight Terrors Nintendo

    Knight Terrors is a side-scrolling, single-player action game. You play as a knight jumping over obstacles and running through levels destroying monsters. Rock out to the chiptune soundtrack as you obtain power-ups and conquer randomly generated levels.

    Knight Terrors. October 24. Nintendo; $3.

    The Mummy Demastered
    The Mummy Demastered Nintendo

    The Mummy Demastered is a single-player, 2D shoot-em-up game with tons of weapons, gruesome battles, and hidden items to find. You’re a monster-hunter defending the world.

    The Mummy Demastered. October 24. Nintendo; $20.

    Fire Emblem Warriors Special Editions

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Fire Emblem Warriors is an amibbo-compatible, tactical, hack-and-slash game. The RPG lets you battle hoards of enemies, level-up, and plan out strategic group attacks. The special-edition version comes with the Nintendo Switch game, three CDs with music from the game, and a dual-sided poster.

    Fire Emblem Warriors Special Editions. October 20. Amazon; $80.

    Syberia
    Syberia Nintendo

    Syberia is an adventure game that follows a lawyer named Kate Walker as she travels to a town in order to complete the negotiations for the purchase of an automaton factory. Play in TV mode or tabletop mode.

    Syberia. October 20. Nintendo; $30.

    ACA NeoGeo Robo Army
    ACA NeoGeo Robo Army Nintendo

    Robo Army by ACA NeoGeo was originally released in 1991. Play solo or with a friend as you destroy enemies, collect items, and up your abilities with power-ups.

    ACA NeoGeo Robo Army. October 19. Nintendo; $8.

    Elliot Quest
    Elliot Quest Nintendo

    Elliot Quest is a single-player adventure game about a newly immortal man that needs to find a cure to a curse that is turning him into a demon. Move across five levels picking up new abilities, spells, and battling 16 bosses.

    Elliot Quest. October 19. Nintendo; $10.

    JYDGE
    JYDGE Nintendo

    JYDGE is a birds-eye shooter game wherein you get to build your own cybernetic crime fighter. Choose companions and modify weapons to suit your playing style. Play solo or with a friend in CO-JYDGE co-op modes.

    JYDGE. October 19. Nintendo; $15.

    Party Golf
    Party Golf Nintendo

    Party Golf is a party game that can be played with up to eight players. There are over 100 game modes and it generates new courses every time you play. There are more than 10 power-ups to boost your skills and beat your friends.

    Party Golf. October 19. Nintendo; $15.

    Revenant Saga
    Revenant Saga Nintendo

    Revenant Saga is a single-player RPG adventure game. Long story short, you’ve been turned into a demon, must find the person who did this to you, and then take your revenge. There are mini-quests and you can make your own custom weapons.

    Revenant Saga. October 19. Nintendo; $13.

    Spelunker Party!
    Spelunker Party! Nintendo

    Spelunker Party! is a co-op multiplayer party game that can be enjoyed with up to four players. Journey underground with your pet sidekicks. Snatch power-ups for special abilities.

    Spelunker Party!. October 19. Nintendo; $30.

    Super Ping Pong Trick Shot
    Super Ping Pong Trick Shot Nintendo

    Super Ping Pong Trick Shot is virtual beer pong. While throwing a ball into a cup sounds easy, this game throws obstacles in the way to increase the difficulty. There are 80 challenges in single-player mode, a timed challenge, and a one-on-one multiplayer game.

    Super Ping Pong Trick Shot. October 19. Nintendo; $5.

    The Count Lucanor
    The Count Lucanor Nintendo

    The Count Lucanor is a horror adventure-puzzle game that includes: a creepy castle, creepy characters, and creepy blood-thirsty goats. All of your choices effect how the story unfolds—there are five different endings.

    The Count Lucanor. October 19. Nintendo; $13.

    The Jackbox Party Pack 4
    The Jackbox Party Pack 4 Nintendo

    Spend your evening playing trivia games, dating monsters, and drawing. Some of the party games allow for up to 16 players. You can play with phones, tablets, or computers, so you don’t need to buy any extra controllers.

    The Jackbox Party Pack 4. October 19. Nintendo; $25.

    Putty Pals Nintendo Switch
    Putty Pals Nintendo

    You and a friend play as two blobs of putty that must avoid obstacles and solve puzzles together. There are hidden surprises, 28 levels, and 16 unlockable mini-levels.

    Putty Pals. October 18. Nintendo; $10.

    Don't Knock Twice Nintendo Switch
    Don’t Knock Twice Nintendo

    Don’t Knock Twice is a first-person horror game set in an old, spooky house. You play as a mother trying to save her daughter from an evil witch. Explore the house and find objects to help defend yourself.

    Don’t Knock Twice. October 17. Nintendo; $10.

    Rogue Trooper Redux Nintendo Switch
    Rogue Trooper Redux Nintendo

    This action-adventure game—originally released on Xbox and PS2 in 2006— includes 13 missions, an online co-op mode, and improved HD graphics. Play Rogue Trooper Redux with three friends.

    Rogue Trooper Redux. October 17. Nintendo; $25.

    88 Heroes - 98 Heroes Edition Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    An evil doctor demands 88 octillion dollars in 88 minutes. You’ve got 88 levels to beat in under 88 seconds each.

    88 Heroes – 98 Heroes Edition. October 12. Nintendo; $30.

    ACA NeoGeo The King of Fighters ’95 Nintendo Switch
    ACA NeoGeo The King of Fighters ’95 Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo The King of Fighters ’95 is a fighting game that allows you to create teams, making sure you are always battling alongside your favorite characters.

    ACA NeoGeo The King of Fighters ’95. October 12. Nintendo; $8.

    Neon Chrome Nintendo Switch
    Neon Chrome Nintendo

    Neon Chrome is a first-person RPG shooter set in a cyberpunk world. Choose from characters with names like Hacker and Cyber Psycho. Blast away enemies, blow things up, and find upgrades—or enhancements—to improve your strength.

    Neon Chrome. October 12. Nintendo; $15.

    Squareboy vs Bullies: Arena Edition Nintendo Switch
    Squareboy vs Bullies: Arena Edition Nintendo

    Squareboy vs Bullies: Arena Edition is a multiplayer action game where you venture around Squareburg as a tiny square standing up against bullies of all shapes and sizes.

    Squareboy vs Bullies: Arena Edition. October 12. Nintendo; $5.

    The Flame In The Flood: Complete Edition
    The Flame in The Flood: Complete Edition Nintendo

    In this adventure survival game, you play as a girl and her dog traveling down a river trying to find food. Avoiding dangers in the wilderness and scavenge for resources. The river randomly generates each time you play, so the gameplay is always fresh.

    The Flame In The Flood: Complete Edition. October 12. Nintendo; $15.

    Wulverblade
    Wulverblade Nintendo

    Wulverblade is a bloody, side-scrolling combat game inspired by a war between the Romans and British that happened in 120 AD. There are eight levels; play either in co-op mode or by yourself.

    Wulverblade. October 12. Nintendo; $20.

    Yono and the Celestial Elephants
    Yono and the Celestial Elephants Nintendo

    Yano and the Celestial Elephants is a single-player adventure-puzzle game. Collect ancient texts, uncover mysteries, explore caves to find items, and travel from town to town discussing philosophy and power.

    Yono and the Celestial Elephants. October 12. Nintendo; $15.

    Tiny Barbarian DX

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    In Tiny Barbarian DX, fight your way through levels picking up items and weapons.

    Tiny Barbarian DX. October 10. Amazon; $30.

    Touhou Kobuto V: Burst Battle

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Touhou Kobuto V: Burst Battle is a game in the “bullet-hell” genre. Basically, it is a combat game where you shoot intricate patterns of bullets that come out projectile weapons. Play alone or in combat mode with a friend.

    Touhou Kobuto V: Burst Battle. October 10. Amazon; $30.

    Oxenfree Nintendo Switch
    Oxenfree Nintendo

    In Oxenfree, a single-player supernatural thriller, a group of teenagers opens up a gate to another world, letting free evil creatures. Have conversations with characters—each interaction changes the outcome of the game—while solving mysteries.

    OXENFREE. October 6. Nintendo; $20.

    ACA NeoGeo Metal Slug X
    ACA NeoGeo Metal Slug X Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo Metal Slug X was originally released in 1999. The arcade shooting game can be played with up to two players and is just an updated version of Metal Slug 2, with new weapons and things to kill.

    ACA NeoGeo Metal Slug X. October 5. Nintendo; $8.

    Axiom Verge
    Axiom Verge Nintendo

    Axiom Verge is a Matroid-Inspired, single-player action game set in a cavernous, bizarre underground labyrinth. You’re a scientist that finds themselves in a nightmare world and must make their way through levels picking up weapons and power-ups to survive.

    Axiom Verge. October 5. Nintendo; $20.

    Earth Atlantis
    Earth Atlantis Nintendo

    In Earth Atlantis, human civilization is no more and most of Earth’s surface is covered in water. Play as a hunter fighting “creature-machine hybrid monsters” in a side-scrolling shooter. You unlock new ships and weapons the further you get.

    Earth Atlantis. October 5. Nintendo; $15.

    Ninja Shodown
    Ninja Shodown Nintendo

    Ninja Showdown is an arena-combat game that can be played with four players. It’s got six game modes and five battle locations. Create your own ninja, choose your weapons, and decide whether you want to have a free-for-all battle or split into teams.

    Ninja Shodown. October 5. Nintendo; $15.

    Stardew Valley
    Stardew Valley Nintendo

    Stardew Valley is a single-player RPG. You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm and must create a life—get married, grow crops, fish—as well as bring some life back into the suffering town around you.

    Stardew Valley. October 5. Nintendo; $15.

    Tumblestone
    Tumblestone Nintendo

    Tumblestone is a wacky color-matching, multiplayer puzzle game that can be played with up to four players or in a single-player story mode. The big joke in their trailer is that you can “play as a sausage.” Match three similar colored blocks until the board is clear.

    Tumblestone. October 5. Nintendo; $15.

    Volgarr the Viking
    Volgarr the Viking Nintendo

    Volgarr the Viking is a single-player action game originally released on Windows, Linux, and OS X. Play as a viking tasked to defeat an evil dragon.

    Volgarr the Viking. October 5. Nintendo; $10.

    Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
    Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime Nintendo

    Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime is a cooperative multiplayer party game—you can also play with an AI if you’re alone. Travel through the galaxy in a colorful neon spaceship with your crew manning lasers and blaster weapons. You must work together on the ship to battle evil robots and Anti-Love forces. The levels are randomly generated and you can upgrade your ship with new tools and weapons.

    Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime. October 3. Nintendo; $15.

    FIFA 18

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    FIFA 18 brings the franchise into the newest season with updated players and stats, improved graphics and environments, and more realistic player movements.

    FIFA 18. September 29. Amazon; $59.

    ACA NeoGeo BURNING FIGHT
    ACA NeoGeo BURNING FIGHT Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo Burning Fight is an arcade fighter game originally released in 1991. Punch, kick, and use special moves to lower your opponent’s life meter before the time runs out.

    ACA NeoGeo BURNING FIGHT. September 28. Nintendo; $8.

    Astro Bears Party
    Astro Bears Party Nintendo

    Astro Bears Party is an action-style party game with adorable bears in space suits. Play with up to four players. Run around small spheres leaving a ribbon behind you. In order to win, you must avoid your opponent’s ribbons and have them crash into yours.

    Astro Bears Party. September 28. Nintendo; $5.

    Binaries
    Binaries Nintendo

    Binaries is a stunning puzzle game. Each level screen is split into two halves: blue and orange. You must guide two balls—one in each half of the screen—at the same time.

    Binaries. September 28. Nintendo; $13.

    Brave Dungeon + Dark Witch Story:COMBAT
    Brave Dungeon + Dark Witch Story: COMBAT Nintendo

    This is really two games in one. Brave Dungeon is a RPG; pick up items, customize your characters, and battle enemies. Dark Witch’s: COMBAT is a card-based combat game. You can play solo or with a friend. Choose your best three cards—think: the Pokemon trading card game—and add magic items to upgrade your characters.

    Brave Dungeon + Dark Witch Story:COMBAT. September 28. Nintendo; $9.

    Butcher
    Butcher Nintendo

    Butcher is a bloody, single-player 2D shooter game. Play as a cyborg that wants to rid the world of humans.

    Butcher. September 28. Nintendo; $10.

    Conga Master Party!
    Conga Master Party! Nintendo

    Conga Master Party! is a multiplayer dance game. You don’t actually dance, but control players in a Conga line. The goal is to create the longest Conga line possible—it’s similar Nokia’s mobile game Snake. Watch out for hazards that can break up your Conga line. There are over 40 characters, nine clubs, and eight multiplayer game modes.

    Conga Master Party!. September 28. Nintendo; $10.

    Golf Story
    Golf Story Nintendo

    Golf Story is, um, a story about a golfer. But it’s much more than that, too. There are eight different environments, each with their own hazards for you to conquer. On top of hitting a ball around, there are lawn-mowing challenges, drone flights, and other mini-games. The story has multiple characters, allows you to upgrade your golfer by completing challenges, and looks more like Pokemon or Zelda than a sports game.

    Golf Story. September 28. Nintendo; $15.

    Pankapu
    Pankapu Nintendo

    In Pankapu, you can switch between three character types—Warrior, Archer, or Mage. Each has their own skills and you must master them all. You must use your weapons and dodge hazardous obstacles, eventually battling the big bad guy named Gangreyn—the Prince of Nightmares.

    Pankapu. September 28. Nintendo; $12.

    Picross S
    Picross S Nintendo

    Picross S is a crossword puzzle game. Instead of filling in the blank spaces with words, you use the numbers on the side as hints to complete a pixelated image. There are 300 puzzles and a game assist option.

    Picross S. September 28. Nintendo; $8.

    Tower of Babel
    Tower of Babel Nintendo

    Tower of Babel is a single-player game described as a “panic” action-adventure game. Try to race up towers as quickly as possible while collecting coins and avoiding obstacles.

    Sine Mora Ex. September 28. Nintendo; $10.

    Sine Mora EX

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Sine Mora EX is a first-person, side-scrolling shooter game set in what looks like a post-apocalyptic world full of monsters. The game can be played with two players and boasts more than 50 weapons to choose from. There’s both a story mode and an arcade mode.

    Sine Mora Ex. September 26. Amazon; $30.

    Pokkén Tournament DX

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Pokkén Tournament DX brings you to the combat arena for battle. Customize your avatar’s appearance, play in one of five game modes, and gain skill points to level up your Pokemon. You can play solo, online, one-on-one with a friend on your Switch’s two controllers, or with a group, connecting two Nintendo Switches for local battles.

    Pokkén Tournament DX. September 22. Amazon; $56.

    DRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Play alone or with up to five friends defending the Dragon Ball universe from enemies that are warping time and changing history. Create and customize your own character from any of Dragon Ball’s five races.

    DRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2. September 22. Amazon; $50.

    LEGO® NINJAGO®

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    LEGO® NINJAGO® is based on the new film. In the action game—which can be played with up to four players—you’re ninjas defending the world from Lord Garmadon. Build combat skills as you battle through the eight locations.

    LEGO® NINJAGO®. September 22. Amazon; $54.

    ACA NeoGeo Art of Fighting
    ACA NeoGeo Art of Fighting Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo’s Art of Fighting is another arcade-style fighting game similar to Tekken or Street Fighter. Originally released in 1992, Art of Fighting now shows cuts, bruises, and other signs of damage.

    ACA NeoGeo Art of Fighting. September 21. Nintendo; $8.

    SteamWorld Dig 2
    SteamWorld Dig 2 Nintendo

    Dig through underground worlds exploring and battling bad guys. Upgrade your gear and weapons as you make your way through the levels of this puzzle-adventure game. $20.

    SteamWorld Dig 2. September 21. Nintendo; $20.

    Thimbleweed Park
    Thimbleweed Park Nintendo

    Thimbleweed Park is a single-player adventure and puzzle game. Switch between five characters to uncover mysteries about the town.

    Thimbleweed Park. September 21. Nintendo; $20.

    Soldam: Drop, Connect, Erase

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    This multiplayer puzzle game is a lot like Tetris. To reach new levels, create rows of the same color fruits and make them disappear. There are over 200 levels.

    Soldam: Drop, Connect, Erase. September 20. Amazon; $40.

    NBA 2K18 Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    The NBA 2K franchise is back with an improved motion system and some new game modes. The best part: you can compete with the NBA’s current roster or one of 62 classic teams from the past. The Legend and Legend Gold editions come with more virtual currency and MyTEAM cards, which let you purchase and play with legendary players. Play with up to 9 friends.

    NBA 2K18. September 15. Amazon; $60.

    Robonauts Nintendo Switch
    Robonauts Nintendo

    Jump from planet to planet in this first-person shooter. There are 12 solar systems to explore. Play in solo mode or with a friend.

    Robonauts. September 15. Nintendo; $60.

    36 Fragments of Midnight
    36 Fragments of Midnight Nintendo

    Dodge obstacles like lasers and saws while trying to collect lost star fragments. This is a puzzle game.

    36 Fragments of Midnight. September 14. Nintendo; $3.

    ACA NeoGeo Spin Master
    ACA NeoGeo Spin Master Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo Spin Master is an action arcade game. Johnny and Tom blast through levels with a bunch of awesome weapons to recover their stolen treasure map.

    ACA NeoGeo Spin Master. September 14. Nintendo; $8.

    Beach Buggy Racing
    Beach Buggy Racing Nintendo

    Beach Buggy Racing is a four-player racing game similar to Donkey Kong Racing or older Mario Kart games. There are six game modes and 15 race tracks. Customize your cars, grab your power-ups, and find weapons to help you cross that finish line in first place.

    Beach Buggy Racing. September 14. Nintendo; $10.

    Quest of Dungeons
    Quest of Dungeons Nintendi

    In this turn-based adventure strategy game, you are a warrior, wizard, assassin or a shaman trying to defeat a Dark Lord that has stolen the light. Explore dungeons, learn new skills, and discover items.

    Quest of Dungeons. September 14. Nintendo; $9.

    Semispheres
    Semispheres Nintendo

    This 50-level puzzle game sets itself apart with its split-screen gameplay that requires you control two characters at the same time.

    Semispheres. September 14. Nintendo; $10.

    Rayman Legends Definitive Edition

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Rayman and his friends get sucked into legendary paintings, where they must decipher the secrets of each world. There are over 100 paintings.

    Rayman Legends Definitive Edition. September 12. Amazon; $39.

    ACA NeoGeo Blue's Journey
    ACA NeoGeo Blue’s Journey Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo Blue’s Journey lets you play as Blue in a mission to save his world Raguy from an invading tribe. Use weapons and special abilities to complete your quest in this arcade-style, side-scrolling game.

    ACA NeoGeo Blue’s Journey. September 7. Nintendo; $8.

    Double Dragon 4
    Double Dragon 4 Nintendo

    Double Dragon 4 is a two-player side-scrolling action game. Fight your way through levels battling evil ninjas and sumo wrestlers—all to save a girl.

    Double Dragon 4. September 7. Nintendo; $7.

    Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition
    Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition Nintendo

    This game is all about surviving in a world of hipster ice giants and penguin vikings. Fight as an ancient warrior wielding a lightspear to defeat the evils of the world. Best part? Your sidekick is a dog.

    Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition. September 7. Nintendo; $10.

    NeuroVoider
    NeuroVoider Nintendo

    NeuroVoider is a futuristic RPG game with over 8,000 enemies. After you kill your enemies, salvage weapons and other items from their bodies to upgrade your powers. The levels and bad guys are randomly generated, so the game experience is new every time.

    NeuroVoider. September 7. Nintendo; $14.

    Physical Contact: 2048
    Physical Contact: 2048 Nintendo

    Remember that iPhone puzzle game 2048? Now it’s on the Nintendo Switch. You can play solo or against a friend. Merge like numbers to increase your score.

    Physical Contact: 2048. September 7. Nintendo; $5.

    The Bridge Nintendo Switch
    The Bridge Nintendo

    The Bridge is a 48-level puzzle game. Inspired by the artist M. C. Escher, the game is a total head trip.

    The Bridge. September 7. Nintendo; $10.

    Lego Worlds Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    It’s like playing with the ultimate LEGO kit. You can create houses with walls made of lava, fill an entire island with thousands of seagulls or use bazookas to blow things up around you. The ultimate goal is to become a master builder. As you complete mini missions, you gain new LEGO pieces, characters, weapons, and vehicles. You can play online with friends, exploring each other’s worlds.

    Lego World. September 5. Amazon; $40.

    RBI Baseball 2017

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    RBI Baseball 2017 is the fourth in the MLB game franchise. Play as any MLB team in any of their stadiums. Play baseball from your couch solo or with a friend.

    RBI Baseball 2017. September 5. Amazon; $49.

    Azure Striker GUNVOLT: STRIKER PACK
    Azure Striker Gunvolt: Striker Pack Nintendo

    This side-scrolling action game is similar to Mega Man, but with updated HD graphics. Play as Gunvolt, a freedom fighter with supernatural powers trying to save his world from two evil groups.

    Azure Striker Gunvolt: Striker Pack. August 31. Amazon; $40.

    League of Evil Nintendo Switch
    League of Evil Nintendo

    This 8-bit-style action-adventure game has got 140 levels, plus a level editor to design your own.

    League of Evil. August 31. Nintendo; $8.

    ACA NeoGeo Zed Blade Nintendo Switch
    ACA NeoGeo Zed Blade Nintendo

    Zed Blade is a two-player, side-scrolling shooter game. Choose your aircraft and weapon—each one suits a different playing style—to defeat the evil forces of Yggdrasil.

    ACA NeoGeo Zed Blade. August 31. Nintendo; $8.

    Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    After a Rabbids character finds a piece of technology that can combine objects, the Rabbids world is merged with the Mushroom Kingdom. Use strategy to defeat bad guys while picking up coins and upgrading weapons. You’ll see all your Mario world favorites, including Luigi, Princess Peach, and Yoshi. Play solo or with a friend.

    Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle. August 29. Amazon; $55.

    ACA NeoGeo Puzzled Nintendo Switch
    ACA NeoGeo Puzzled Nintendo

    If you’ve spent hours playing Tetris, you’ll like this. Instead of forming rows of shapes on the bottom of the screen, you must demolish obstacles that are preventing your air balloon or air ship from floating upwards.

    ACA NeoGeo Puzzled. August 24. Nintendo; $8.

    Forma 8 Nintendo Switch
    Forma 8 Nintendo

    Forma 8 is a minimalist, open-world action-adventure game. Play as a black org-looking character that receives power-ups while solving mysteries, exploring caves, and battling enemies.

    Forma 8. August 24. Nintendo; $10.

    Piczle Lines DX Nintendo Switch
    Piczle Lines DX Nintendo

    Piczle Lines DX is a block-based puzzle game. Connect sets of similar numbers on a gridded level board to create hidden pictures. Each set of numbers creates a different colored line. What makes this game tricky is when you are connecting a pair of nines together, the line you draw has to take up nine spots on the grid. This is what creates the design on the board. It’s hard to explain, so you can check out the trailer here.

    Piczle Lines DX. August 24. Nintendo; $10.

    Minecraft Story Mode: The Complete Adventure

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Minecraft Story Mode is a single-player adventure game that comes with eight different episodes. You are on a quest to find The Order Stone, which will allow you to save the world. Each choice you make leads the story in a new direction.

    Minecraft Story Mode: The Complete Adventure. August 22. Amazon; $39.

    ACA NeoGeo Magician Lord Nintendo Switch
    ACA NeoGeo Magician Lord Nintendo

    ACA NeoGeo Magician Lord is a side-scrolling, fantasy-action game that can be played with two people. Fight your way through levels as a magician named Elta in order to save the world from a resurrected evil being.

    ACA NeoGeo Magician Lord. August 17. Nintendo; $8.

    Sky Ride NIntendo Switch
    Sky Ride Nintendo

    Sky Ride is a fast-paced, single-player game wherein you blast approaching foes while riding around on a flying bike.

    Sky Ride. August 17. Nintendo; $7.

    The Jackbox Party Pack Nintendo Switch
    The Jackbox Party Pack Nintendo

    Party favorite Jackbox has made its way to the Switch. Spend your evening playing trivia games, competing in drawing challenges, and coming up with convincing bluffs to trick your friends. It supports up to 10 players. You can play with phones, tablets, or computers, so you don’t need to buy any extra controllers.

    The Jackbox Party Pack. August 17. Nintendo; $25.

    The Jackbox Party Pack 2 Nintendo Switch
    The Jackbox Party Pack 2 Nintendo

    Jackbox Party Pack 2 lets you play with up to eight players. It has five party games including a sound effects challenge, an absurd art auction, and a bomb-diffusing game. You can play with phones, tablets, or computers, so you don’t need to buy any extra controllers. One game—The Lie Swatter—can even be played with up to 100 players.

    The Jackbox Party Pack 2. August 17. Nintendo; $25.

    Sonic Mania Nintendo Switch

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    Sonic the Hedgehog is back. Play with up to two players in this classic game with improved graphics.

    Sonic Mania. August 15. Amazon; $20.

    Troll & I

    Amazon

    SEE IT

    You play as a young boy named Otto who becomes friends with a Troll. The two of you must use your skills to survive in the dangerous forests.

    Troll & I. August 15. Amazon; $30.

    Interested in talking about deals and gadgets? Request to join our secret Facebook group. With all our product stories, the goal is simple: more information about the stuff you’re thinking about buying. We may sometimes get a cut from a purchase, but if something shows up on one of our pages, it’s because we like it. Period.

    The post Updated: Every game available for Nintendo Switch appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         E3 2017: A casual gamer’s guide to all the cool new video game stuff https://www.popsci.com/e3-2017-casual-gamers-guide-to-all-cool-new-video-game-stuff/ Wed, 14 Jun 2017 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/e3-2017-casual-gamers-guide-to-all-cool-new-video-game-stuff/
    Xbox One X

    An updating list of what's coming out of the massive gaming trade show.

    The post E3 2017: A casual gamer’s guide to all the cool new video game stuff appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    Xbox One X

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Every year, the video game industry descends upon California for E3, a trade show dedicated to all the new stuff happening–or about to happen–in gaming. Die-hard gamers can spend almost the entire week dissecting the coverage and analyzing the announcements. Some of us, however, are simply “casuals” who just want to know about the cool stuff coming down the pipe. We will update this page as cool new stuff is announced, so stay tuned here! [Note: Some of these games are rated M and are only meant for mature audiences.]

    CONSOLES

    Xbox One X

    Xbox One X
    The new Xbox One X has a small form factor, an awkward name, and heaps of processing power. Microsoft

    Microsoft has been teasing its new Project Scorpio Xbox for months, but it’s finally real, and it’s called the Xbox One X. Awkward name aside, the new $499 machine is crammed full of enough computing power to run some 4K games at 60 fps. It also has a liquid-cooled vapor chamber to keep it from overheating.

    To really get the benefit of the upgraded Xbox One X, you’ll likely want to have a high-end system to surround it, including a 4K TV and advanced surround sound. Otherwise, you’re probably best sticking to the regular Xbox One S, which has gotten a price drop down to $249 to start.

    Oddly, VR didn’t seem to make much of an impact at all on the Xbox Team.

    Release date: November 7th

    There were no real updates out of the Sony camp about the PlayStation hardware, which isn’t much of a surprise since we already have the PlayStation 4 Pro. Some people were expecting a price cut there, but with the PS4 Pro already $100 cheaper than the upcoming Xbox One X, it may not be necessary from a competitive standpoint.

    The Nintendo Switch is still very fresh, so there’s not a lot of big hardware news there. For a list of all the games currently available on Nintendo Switch, click here.

    GAMES

    Super Mario Odyssey

    It’s hard to have an E3 without Mario showing his mustached face allover the place. This year, our favorite Italian plumber has some big news in the form of a 3D game in which he tries to stop Bowser from marrying Princess Peach. Honestly, the story doesn’t really matter that much because this seems like the perfect mix of nostalgia and tech from Nintendo’s latest console. Now, hopefully Nintendo makes more Switch consoles so people can actually find them.

    Release date: October 27, 2017

    Metroid Prime 4

    One of the most highly-touted announcements from Nintendo (or anyone, really) of the show so far doesn’t even come with any gameplay footage. People love Metroid and it’s now officially coming to the Switch.

    *Sonic Forces *

    Nintendo really seems to know that its fans like familiar faces. The new Sonic game looks like a mix of 3D and side-scrolling action with a somewhat surprisingly serious tone.

    Release date: Later in 2017

    Kirby

    I have always personally identified with [Kirby](http://amzn.to/2stUn3E/). He’s a hero, but he’s always hungry and that’s how I’d like to be remembered. This is Nintendo being Nintendo. It’s brightly-colored, has a happy soundtrack, and looks like it’ll be a blast to play with friends.

    Release date: 2018

    Forza 7

    The Forza franchize, with its bevy of shiny supercars has always been a platform for Microsoft to show off what the Xbox can do. Forza 7 is no different, promising all sorts of intense graphics and textures running at the maxed-out 4K 60 fps resolution.

    Release date: October 3rd

    The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR

    Skyrim is a game that seems built for VR. There are huge worlds to explore, missions to accomplish, and enemies to fight. The VR can make it so real, you’ll almost feel the arrow that hits you in the knee.

    Release date: November 2017

    Life Is Strange: Before the Storm

    If you have never played the original Life Is Strange game, you probably should. It’s not the typical shooter-style game that dominates the video game landscape. It will make you feel feelings.

    Release date: August 2017

    Monster Hunter World

    If you live in the USA, you may not be that familiar with the Monster Hunter franchise, but it’s huge in Japan and the new version is meant to encourage cross-region play. The game will have a four-player cooperative mode that allows players to swap in and out. Nothing brings cultures closer together than swinging enormous swords at fantastic monsters.

    Release date: Early 2018

    God of War: Be a Warrior

    One of the big franchises on the PS4 is getting a new installment in the form of a new God of War game. In this episode, Kratos tries to balance his love for chopping big monsters and being a dad. It’s both heart-warming and incredibly violent.

    Cuphead

    While most new games focus on hyper-realistic graphics, this quirky action game has the aesthetics of a cartoon from the 1930s. This game has been in development forever, but now has an official release date and it looks rather delightful.

    Release date: September 29th

    Gran Turismo Sport

    Microsoft has Forza and Sony has Gran Turismo. This series has come a very long way since it dominated on the PS1 and will now look beautiful in upscaled 4K. There are fewer cars this time around, but an emphasis on the actual racing.

    Assassin’s Creed: Origins

    With all the time traveling that happens in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, it’s hard to keep track of where the real origins lie, but if this title is to be believed, you’ll find out while doing parkour all over ancient Egypt.

    Release date: October 27th

    Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

    This Nintendo Switch title is the latest in a long string of semi-odd crossover games with familiar Nintendo characters. Apparently, this colorful game plays more like a turn-based RPG than an action game.

    Release date: August 29th

    Middle Earth: Shadow of War

    One of the most charming trailers to also include gratuitous violence comes from this adventure-style game based in the land of the Lord of the Rings. Watch that and tell us you don’t want to go hang out and do some quests with Bruz, the orc.

    Fallout 4 VR

    There has been relatively little talk about VR at this year’s E3 so far, at least from many of the big names, but the beloved Fallout franchise is getting some virtual reality love. It will be available on the HTC Vive in case you feel like diving deeper into a nuclear post-apocalypse.

    Release date: October 2017

    OTHER HARDWARE

    Logitech Powerplay Wireless Charging System and Mouse

    Logitech Power Play mousepad
    There are two surface options for the mouse pad, including fabric and a hard surface. Logitech

    We can probably expect a lot of peripherals to come rolling out of E3, and so far Logitech’s wireless gaming mouse setup is one of the coolest we have seen. The battery charges wirelessly from the mousepad so it never has to be plugged in. It works with both the G703 and G903 gaming mice.

    New Mario Amiibos

    If you’re a fan or collector of Nintendo’s fun little connected statues, you’ll have a few new options in the coming months. The wedding-themed figures will be timed with the release of the new Super Mario Odyssey game. Metroid figures are also in the works.

    The post E3 2017: A casual gamer’s guide to all the cool new video game stuff appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Nintendo Brings Back the Original NES For Just $60 https://www.popsci.com/nintendo-nes-classic-edition-feature-review/ Tue, 08 Nov 2016 06:32:12 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/nintendo-nes-classic-edition-feature-review/
    Console Gaming photo

    A fun way to relive your days of being terrible at video games.

    The post Nintendo Brings Back the Original NES For Just $60 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Console Gaming photo

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    Lately it hasn’t been easy to be a fan of Nintendo consoles. The Wii U’s questionable tablet-looking controller and lack of support from third-party game makers made it—as even the creator of Mario and Zelda will admit—something of a failure.

    The company is hitting the reset button by taking its latest console off store shelves and gearing up for the launch of the Nintendo Switch in March. Meanwhile, to keep loyalists intrigued, Nintendo is re-releasing its first-ever game console, the original NES. And it’s damn awesome.

    The NES Classic Edition is a remake of the 1985 original. This one is half the weight (so light it feels fake), and so compact grown-ups could easily palm it, throw it in a backpack, and cart it and two controllers to a friend’s place.

    NES Classic Edition
    NES Classic Vs. Game Boy Color. Also pictured: Nintendo 3DS and iPhone 7 Xavier Harding

    Nintendo’s Entertainment System

    The unit sports Power and Reset buttons like the original, though now the reset button, which used to start over the game, takes players to the device’s home screen. Next to these are two controller ports. Toward the back of the NES Classic Edition gamers can find an HDMI port to output video to most modern televisions and a micro-USB port to send power to the device.

    Interestingly, Nintendo has chosen to go with a standard charging port, which is unlike the ports on the back of the Wii U Gamepad or Nintendo 3DS. This means, thankfully, that you probably have cables lying around that can power Nintendo’s retro console. You could also power the console with a portable USB battery—no dongles required.

    NES Classic Edition
    Should you need to, you can power the NES Classic Edition off of those little USB portable batteries Xavier Harding

    Now You’re Playing With Power

    Most, if not all, of your favorite games from the ’80s have made it over. Super Mario Bros., Kirby, Mega Man, Final Fantasy, Donkey Kong, Zelda and more all have titles on the Classic Edition console, as well as titles that we haven’t seen much from since their NES releases, like Excitebike and Mike Tyson’s Punch Out. In all there are 30 games available, and no way to buy more vintage titles from Nintendo’s eShop.

    Playing the NES Classic Edition feels like just like playing a game from the past—for better or worse. Throw the NES in CRT mode and you’ll even get the old-school television effect. You’re quickly reminded how uncomfortable controllers were, and how much you needed to use start. There are no auto saves, and some games don’t have saving at all. Instead, users create a password to let the game know just where you ended.

    To help make up for this, the NES Classic Edition implements a feature used by every modern video game emulator (those less-than-legal apps that let you play NES and other old games on your computer or phone). Nintendo lets you suspend gameplay, so wherever you are in a game you can freeze the state to one of five save slots on the home screen. At an especially hard part in Mega Man 2 right before Cut Man? Save in the middle of the level, even if Mega Man’s makers Capcom doesn’t want you to. Some may consider the practice cheating, honestly, games used to be freaking hard. Be honest: we all know the idea of finite lives is meant to suck up quarters at the arcade—it just doesn’t make sense when I’m casually playing at home.

    NES Classic Edition
    Are all my suspend points from one level of Mega Man 2? Yes. Yes they are. Xavier Harding

    Nothing about the NES Classic Edition is wireless, so you have to sit right in front of the TV to play or change the game. The cord to the NES controller is short, so while you can (barely) kick back, you’ll likely witness the NES do its best tightrope impression. But it doesn’t end at short cords. As usual with Nintendo, the controller situation is annoying.

    Why So Controlling?

    Nintendo’s most recent full console, the Wii U, has a controller problem. While they work fine, the fact that Nintendo has so many controller options leads to added confusion and extra costs. While the Playstation 4 and Xbox One let you use one controller for all games, the Wii U constantly needs to specify which controllers work with which games. And no one controller works with every Wii U game. The NES Classic Edition hasn’t inherited all of the Wii U’s problems, but Nintendo still could have executed things better for fans who already own a pile of controllers.

    NES Classic Edition
    Good luck playing the new NES from across the room Xavier Harding

    As someone who owns a Wii U, my ownership of the Wii U Gamepad, a Wii U Pro Controller, and three Wii Remotes was not enough to make up for the fact that the NES Classic Edition only ships with one controller. Luckily, the console works with the Wii Classic Controller and the Wii U Classic Controller Pro, or third-party-made controllers like this wireless one from Nyko. Extra controllers are cheap (about $10), but oblivious shoppers may find it frustrating that when they get home to find they’ll only be able to play 1P games until they can trek back out to the store.

    In a perfect world, the new NES would work with any of the new Nintendo controllers with two action buttons and a directional pad (i.e.: all of their controllers). Perhaps one day.

    Price Makes This A No-Brainer

    Dumb controller decisions aside, the price of the NES 2.0 makes the decision of buying one easy. A very compact, novelty console—plus 30 games—for $60 is a steal. If you already have a Wii U,Wii or 3DS, buying NES games that can be played on your system can be had at $5 each. That’s convenient if you want to play a one-off vintage game, but still doesn’t beat games at $2 a pop and the ability to throw the console in a bag and head to a friend’s place. If you don’t like the new NES, it’s most likely because you hate fun.

    Nintendo is known for new versions of their classic titles as much as they are for re-introducing old games on newer hardware. But the idea of re-releasing the whole damn console is a kind of genius way to tide fans over (and keep profits strong) until the Nintendo Switch comes in 2017. Not only is the NES an obvious quick purchase, Nintendo can continue to print more money by re-launching their other legacy consoles. Hopefully by 2018, the N64 Classic Edition will support all of Nintendo’s modern controllers and the ability to add to the built-in titles. Until then, in 2016, the NES Classic Edition remains a great way to stock up on Nintendo’s retro games.

    The post Nintendo Brings Back the Original NES For Just $60 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         Playstation VR Is The Best Virtual Reality Headset For Couch Gamers https://www.popsci.com/playstation-vr-review/ Wed, 05 Oct 2016 20:00:07 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/playstation-vr-review/
    Console Gaming photo

    Decent graphics, great price and easy setup

    The post Playstation VR Is The Best Virtual Reality Headset For Couch Gamers appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Console Gaming photo

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    Two years ago, Sony revealed that it was working on a project code-named Morpheus. The project was shrouded in mystery, but aptly named. Much like the Matrix character, Morpheus was meant to take us out of this reality and into a different one. Sony’s red pill, however, brings you into the video game, instead of the real world. And it’s the cheapest good quality gaming VR headset we’ve seen.

    How Does It Work?

    Like many virtual reality headsets, the Playstation VR makes use of stereoscopic images—shooting two images into your eyes up close to have them appear to be one. An accelerometer and gyroscope sense the position of your head, indicating to the headset how to position the image and change it when you move. This, combined with totally removing the view of the outside world, leads to the illusion of being in an entirely new world.

    Sony’s specific brand of virtual reality throws in added use of the Playstation Camera to track the headset and motion-sensing Move controllers. You have to own a Playstation Camera to use the PS VR.

    What’s It Look Like?

    Playstation VR
    Playstation VR profile Xavier Harding
    Playstation VR
    Playstation VR and PS4 Xavier Harding
    Playstation VR
    Volume controls and power button on Playstation VR Xavier Harding

    The PlayStation VR seems more similar to the PC-attached HTC Vive and Oculus Rift than it does the smartphone-dependent Gear VR and Google Cardboard. Instead of inserting a phone, the PS VR is fully enclosed and plugs into your PlayStation 4.

    The headset is covered in bright LEDs–seven on the front and two more on the back. It looks like something out of an anime cartoon.

    Is It Tough To Set Up?

    Compared to the other good gaming VR options (Rift and Vive), the PlayStation VR is relatively painless to setup. Even before buying HTC or Oculus’s offering, setup time is baked into making sure your PC gaming rig is in tip top shape for running the demanding VR headsets. PS VR, on the other hand, requires simply owning the console and updating to the latest software.

    Playstation VR processor
    PS VR external processor box Xavier Harding

    Once your PS4 is fully setup, putting together the Playstation VR is as simple as plugging in all the various pieces in order. Sony’s labeled each cable with a number, making it clear which step in the process you’re at.

    Setting up takes longer than the simpler Gear VR, but it’s less daunting and time-consuming than the HTC Vive. While the PS VR utilizes a camera, it doesn’t ask that you set up base stations around your room. The downside to this is that while the HTC Vive can track you as you walk around a room, Playstation VR can only track you within a relatively small rectangular-shaped area.

    Is It Comfortable? It Doesn’t Look So

    The lights on the device look slick but the Playstation VR seems clunkier than competing headsets. A hard circular outline goes around the wearer’s head, but it’s made more comfortable by the fact that it’s adjustable. Foam padding on the front of the helmet, near the eyes, make wearing the display for a couple of hours doable. The padding, fixed position on the head and weight of headset make the Playstation VR the most comfortable of the VR headsets to wear for extended periods of time–for my head shape, at least.

    Playstation VR controllers
    Depending on the game, the Playstation VR lets you use the regular DualShock controller or Move VR controllers Xavier Harding

    Will This Make Me Sick? What’s The Experience Like?

    Mostly no. In general, most PS VR games were comfortable to play. Even when I played a 2D game and I bumped up the screen size to movie theater-esque large. While some VR games like Wayward Sky and Batman VR lead to no problems of wooziness, game demos like the one for RIGS have lead to some sickness. The game has players jumping between platforms and running through arenas, which I couldn’t handle for too long.

    Directional audio may or may not help with sickness, but is a cool effect when experiencing the Playstation VR. The included earbuds, or any wired headphones, will simulate sounds on either side of you–something other companies like Ossic have attempted to simulate as well. And doesn’t affect the amount of graphics the console is able to handle, like many may assume.

    Because you’re not walking around like you are in the HTC Vive, the PS VR requires less initial orienting. With the included extension cable, Playstation gamers can sit on the couch or in their office chair and play their Playstation as normal, even with the VR headset on.

    HTC Vive and Playstation VR
    HTC Vive (pictured left) and Playstation VR (right) Xavier Harding

    It Costs A Lot Less Than Oculus Rift And HTC Vive

    The Playstation VR will cost you $500 if you get the launch bundle, which includes the headset, Playstation Camera, 2 Playstation Move controllers, and the VR Worlds game disk. If you already have the $60 Playstation Camera, Sony will offer the Playstation Core, consisting of just the headset, external processor and required cables. Coupled with the $299 Playstation 4, the total rings up to cheaper than the $1,000+ gaming PC you’d need to run the $600 Oculus Rift and $800 HTC Vive.

    So Should You Buy It?

    Virtual reality on the Playstation 4 is good. The graphics aren’t quite as good as on the Vive and Oculus, since those are powered by expensive PCs, but overall they didn’t get in the way.

    But VR in general is still expensive. What your buying decision will come down to is titles: do you have any interest in the launch titles coming on October 13 or the games coming thereafter? For now, the VR titles can be amusing, but playing your favorite games on the virtual big screen may be worth the $300 alone.

    If you’re not a PC gamer but are still interested in hardcore VR games, this is the one to get.

    The post Playstation VR Is The Best Virtual Reality Headset For Couch Gamers appeared first on Popular Science.

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    ]]>         This New XBox Game Lets You Literally Battle Cancer https://www.popsci.com/i-hope-game-battles-cancer/ Fri, 19 Aug 2016 05:37:03 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/i-hope-game-battles-cancer/
    I, Hope
    ID@Xbox is publishing I, Hope, a 3D adventure where 100% of the proceeds go to children with life-threatening illnesses. Microsoft

    'I, Hope' follows a little girl set on wiping out the illness

    The post This New XBox Game Lets You Literally Battle Cancer appeared first on Popular Science.

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    I, Hope
    ID@Xbox is publishing I, Hope, a 3D adventure where 100% of the proceeds go to children with life-threatening illnesses. Microsoft

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Video games are an important tool for some when it comes to dealing with terminal illnesses or death, as Numines Games’ That Dragon, Cancer demonstrated when it debuted on PC earlier this year. It took an extremely emotional and tumultuous experience and turned it into a powerful adventure anyone could relate to.

    In turn it became a resource for others, further demonstrating the sheer power video games can possess. I get the same vibe from the upcoming indie title I, Hope, which is unique in that 100 percent of its profits upon release will be donated to children with terminal illnesses as well as their families.

    The brainchild of Arconyx’s Kenny Roy, development and training laboratory ANOMALIA and the GameChanger charity, I, Hope is an upcoming release with one goal in mind: Helping kids conquer cancer in their own ways.

    It will be available on ID@Xbox, Microsoft’s self-publishing program for indie developers, home to a landscape of unique games from smaller creators who may otherwise never have been able to get their titles on a major platform.

    The game’s aimed specifically at children going through long, scary treatment courses and hospital stays. It features a little girl named Hope who trying to defeat Cancer — literally.

    Rather than an illness, it’s a creature that’s caused a blight on her homeland. Hope is tasked with heading out to several different islands, defeating the evil forces on each, and restoring her home to its former glory.

    It’s an interesting metaphor for kids looking for a way to deal with their illnesses while having fun in the process. Hospital stays and news about ailing health is scary for cancer sufferers at any age, but I, Hope wants to give kids a little fun during what could otherwise be a bleak period in their lives.

    Beyond its younger target audience, I, Hope should appeal to anyone who enjoys a classic action-adventure game. It looks like a solid, The Legend of Zelda-inspired journey, and it’s set for a 2017 release exclusively on Xbox One.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSJ-Ic2-c8o//

    The post This New XBox Game Lets You Literally Battle Cancer appeared first on Popular Science.

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