Category: All News

March 22, 2025
Game Parodying Assassin’s Creed Shadows Hits Second on SteamDB
Key Takeaways
1. Game Launch and Concept: Yasuke Simulator was released on March 20 by HistoryAccurateDevelopers and offers a humorous take on Assassin’s Creed Shadows, featuring exaggerated historical elements.
2. Gameplay Mechanics: Players assume the role of Yasuke, the first African samurai, engaging in fast-paced katana battles while supporting Oda Nobunaga’s mission to unify Japan.
3. Humorous Tone and Customization: The game contrasts with serious narratives by including outrageous skins like pink samurai sunglasses and beer helmets, adding a lighthearted twist to the gameplay.
4. Community Reception: The game has gained popularity on Reddit, with players expressing excitement and support, while also receiving some criticism for its perceived quality and asset usage.
5. Availability and Pricing: Yasuke Simulator is available on Steam for approximately $4, with a 15% launch discount until April 3, bringing the price to about $3.50.
Yasuke Simulator hit the Steam platform on March 20. Developed by the indie team HistoryAccurateDevelopers, this action game serves as a humorous take on Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows, featuring some questionable historical accuracy, outrageous skins, and a ton of meme-worthy moments.
Gameplay Overview
In terms of both narrative and gameplay, Yasuke Simulator closely resembles Assassin’s Creed Shadows, putting players in the shoes of Yasuke, who was the first African samurai in Japan back in 1579. As a supporter of Oda Nobunaga, your mission is to assist in unifying the nation, with fast-paced katana battles being the main focus. However, where Ubisoft’s game takes a serious tone, Yasuke Simulator embraces a more lighthearted approach—with pink samurai sunglasses, beer helmets, and Bengal tiger costumes humorously poking fun at the historical context.
Community Reactions
On Reddit, Yasuke Simulator is being praised as an intentionally exaggerated “meme competitor,” with comments such as “I’ll buy this, no question” and “We have to get this to number 1 – just to troll” showcasing the excitement from the gaming community. On SteamDB, the game has quickly reached the second spot in the “Hot Releases” category. Yet, there are some more critical opinions that liken it to a novice’s Unreal Engine project stuffed with free assets, implying that it might just be a troll or a clever marketing gimmick rather than a genuine game. Nevertheless, if you’re intrigued, this satirical version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows can be found on Steam for approximately $4. With a 15% launch discount available until April 3, you can snag it for roughly $3.50.
Source:
Link
Tags: Assassin’s Creed, indie game, Yasuke Simulator
March 22, 2025
Casio GA-2100BM Colorful Metallic Watches Coming to Europe
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio GA-2100BM series features three new models: GA-2100BM-7A2 (sky blue), GA-2100BM-7A5 (rose gold), and GA-2100BM-7A8 (silver).
2. These watches combine analog and digital technology with a small screen and a dial for the day of the week, known as Skeleton CasiOaks.
3. Key specifications include a 24-hour countdown timer, 1/100th second stopwatch, five daily alarms, world time for 48 cities, and a dual LED backlight.
4. The watches are water-resistant up to 20 bar and have an estimated battery life of three years with two SR726W batteries.
5. The retail price for each model is €129, but it is unclear if they will be available in the US market.
The Casio GA-2100 Series Bright Metallic watches have been marked as “Coming Soon” on the brand’s European online stores. Recently, these three new models appeared at the G-Shock UK store.
Watch Features
The G-Shock GA-2100BM is a blend of analog and digital technology, featuring a small digital screen alongside a dial that shows the day of the week. There are three different models in this collection: the GA-2100BM-7A2 in sky blue, the GA-2100BM-7A5 in rose gold, and the GA-2100BM-7A8 in silver. These watches are known as Skeleton CasiOaks, showcasing an octagonal bezel, a shiny metallic dial, and a transparent resin casing.
Specifications and Functions
The GA-2100BM watches come equipped with several handy features, including a countdown timer that covers a 24-hour range, a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, five daily alarms, and hourly time signals. They also have options for world timezones covering 48 cities, with formats for both 12 and 24-hour time, alongside a fully automatic calendar. Additionally, the watch includes a dual LED backlight and is designed to be water resistant up to 20 bar. Casio estimates the watch will operate for about three years using two SR726W batteries.
Pricing and Availability
Casio has announced that the GA-2100BM-7A2, GA-2100BM-7A5, and GA-2100BM-7A8 will be priced at €129 in various countries including the Netherlands, France, and Spain. It remains uncertain if these models will be available in the US market at a later date.
Tags: Casio GA-2100 Series, G-Shock GA-2100BM, metallic watch
March 22, 2025
Philips Hue USB-C Cable for Smart Security Cameras Available Now
Key Takeaways
1. The Philips Hue Secure Camera USB-C power cable is designed specifically for charging Philips Hue Secure cameras, including the Wired camera, priced at $89.99 on Amazon.
2. The cable supplies up to 24W of power and features a 9.8ft (3m) length, allowing flexible camera placement.
3. It is intended for indoor use only and does not include a power supply.
4. Available in black or white, the cable is priced at $19.99 in the US, £16.99 in the UK, and €19.99 in the Netherlands.
5. The product comes with a two-year warranty and is sold through the brand’s online store.
The Philips Hue Secure Camera USB-C power cable is now available globally. This accessory is made specifically to charge or power Philips Hue Secure cameras, including the Hue Secure Wired camera, which is currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon. Although it was announced back in January, it has just started to become available.
Power Features
This USB-C cable can supply up to 24W of power. One end includes the special contacts for the Secure camera, while the other end has a regular USB-C connector. With a length of 9.8ft (3m), it gives users flexibility in placing their smart home security cameras in various locations. This length is standard for wired cameras, so it may not provide any extra benefit for buyers. However, it could serve as a handy replacement if the original cable is damaged or lost.
Usage and Availability
It’s important to highlight that this accessory is meant for indoor use only and does not include a power supply. Customers can select from either black or white cables, although only one length is currently offered. It’s uncertain if more options will be available in the future. The Philips Hue Secure Camera USB-C power cable, measuring 9.8ft (3m), can be purchased in countries like the US, UK, and Netherlands for $19.99/£16.99/€19.99. The product comes with a two-year warranty and can be found through the brand’s online store.
Source:
Link
Tags: Philips Hue Secure Camera, Smart Home Security, USB-C power cable
March 22, 2025
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Snapdragon X Elite Faces Return Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Intel’s claim about high return rates for Qualcomm Snapdragon X laptops sparked debate, with Qualcomm refuting it.
2. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is labeled as a “Frequently returned item” on Amazon, suggesting potential issues.
3. User reviews highlight problems, including difficulty in setting up an Android development environment.
4. Some users report inability to stream Hulu in 4K due to lack of Widevine L1 DRM on the Surface Laptop 7.
5. Overall customer satisfaction is mixed, indicating Snapdragon X Elite laptops have room for improvement compared to Intel, AMD, and Apple Silicon devices.
Last year, an executive from Intel stirred up some debate when she claimed that laptops using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips “suffer from high return rates.” Qualcomm later refuted this assertion. Nevertheless, a listing on Amazon for the newly revealed Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 seems to hint that there might be some merit to Intel’s words.
Return Rates and User Feedback
The Surface Laptop 7 is marked with a tag stating it’s a “Frequently returned item” (H/T Windows Central), prompting Amazon to advise potential buyers to read reviews prior to making a decision. A quick look at the review section for the Surface Laptop 7 reveals some rather intriguing comments. One reviewer mentions having difficulty in establishing an Android development environment. This is quite strange since the device is powered by the Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite chip.
Streaming Issues
In addition, another user points out that they are unable to stream Hulu in 4K. This could be linked to the fact that the Surface Laptop 7 lacks Widevine L1 DRM, which is again baffling. Interestingly, the Asus Vivobook S 15 also carries the same “Frequently returned item” label. However, the reviews for this laptop focus more on its specific issues rather than the Windows on Arm platform in general, including the fact that the RAM is not upgradeable.
Overall Customer Satisfaction
While a majority of customers seem happy with their purchase, it is evident that laptops with Snapdragon X Elite chips have some distance to cover before they can match the performance and experience offered by those that run on Intel, AMD, and Apple Silicon.
Source:
Link
Tags: Amazon return rates, Snapdragon X Elite, Surface Laptop 7
March 22, 2025
New Xbox Console Rumors Spark Concerns Over Backwards Compatibility
Key Takeaways
1. The latest Xbox consoles can run both digital and disc versions of games from previous Xbox generations.
2. There are concerns about the new Xbox system operating similarly to a Windows PC, affecting backwards compatibility with older games.
3. Leaked information suggests that a new Xbox console may encourage developers to use Win32, linking the Xbox app to Steam.
4. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer supports efforts to preserve older games and has suggested using AI for enhancements.
5. Current compatibility issues exist, with glitches reported on Series S and X, and there’s uncertainty about how a PC-like console would handle backwards compatibility.
One benefit of the latest Xbox consoles is that they can run both digital and disc versions of games from the original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One. Yet, gamers are a bit worried about the new plans for Xbox consoles. There are talks about a system that operates similarly to a Windows PC. While this could help platforms like Steam, the issue of backwards compatibility with older Xbox games is not very clear.
Leaked Information and New Features
Recently, Windows Central shared a leaked image that showed the Xbox app linking to Steam. In the same piece, Jez Corden mentioned that a new Xbox console would push developers toward using Win32. This 32-bit Windows API could enable the console to work with current PC apps and software. However, a lot of games on Xbox systems are made using a different development setup.
Community Reactions and Support from Microsoft
The insights from Corden have raised some alarms among Xbox gamers. Nevertheless, Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has been backing the company’s efforts to preserve games. Back in February, Spencer even suggested leveraging AI to enhance older games for the latest consoles. Regardless, a console similar to a PC might need to depend on emulation to maintain a library of older games.
Current Compatibility Challenges
The newer Microsoft consoles already implement a kind of OS emulation to run games from past generations. However, players are curious about how this would work for Xbox backwards compatibility on a PC. Even on the Series S and X, gamers have experienced glitches when playing certain classic games. As Microsoft has progressed towards digital gaming, the ability to play physical discs is not guaranteed on a console that resembles Windows.
Project Kennan is a new handheld gaming device designed by Microsoft and created by Asus. Experts do not expect this system to support all Xbox games. Still, it may function as a testing ground while Microsoft incorporates more services into its Xbox app. Another option for achieving backwards compatibility is cloud streaming, but this can lead to latency and bandwidth challenges.
Source:
Link

Tags: backward compatibility, Project Kennan, Xbox
March 22, 2025
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Smartwatch on Sale with GPS
Key Takeaways
1. The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar is a rugged GPS smartwatch that features solar charging and is currently priced at $334.31, down from $499.99.
2. It can run all day in smartwatch mode after just three hours of direct sunlight exposure and has a water resistance rating of up to 10 ATM (100 meters).
3. The smartwatch includes fitness tracking features such as heart-rate monitoring, VO2 Max, and GPS tracking, supporting various activities like running, cycling, and swimming.
4. It offers smartphone synchronization through the Garmin Connect app, supports contactless payments, and has a live location feature for safety.
5. Additional outdoor tools include an altimeter, barometer, and a three-axis electronic compass for enhanced navigation and performance tracking.
Garmin is well-known for making tough GPS smartwatches, especially their top-tier Fenix series. The Instinct 2X Solar brings many of the same features as the Fenix watches but is designed in a sturdy case and includes solar charging. Currently, you can grab the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar for just $334.31 on Amazon, down from its original price of $499.99. This is the lowest price we’ve seen for this outdoor smartwatch.
Solar Power Efficiency
Garmin states that if you expose the Instinct 2X Solar to direct sunlight for only three hours, it can run all day, even in smartwatch mode. The tough exterior of the Instinct Solar 2X is not just for looks; the Tactical Edition, which is the one on sale, has a water resistance rating of up to 10 ATM. This means it can withstand depths of 100 meters, making it suitable for the roughest outdoor adventures.
Fitness Tracking Features
When it comes to user-friendliness, the Garmin smartwatch includes fitness tracking features like heart-rate monitoring, VO2 Max, and GPS tracking. It supports various activities such as cycling, running, golf, skiing, rock climbing, yoga, pilates, weight lifting, swimming, and many others. Plus, it can sync notifications and fitness stats with your smartphone using the Garmin Connect app. The Instinct 2X Solar also supports contactless payments and has a live location feature that can automatically let your family know where you are if something goes wrong.
Additional Outdoor Tools
The Instinct 2X Solar is equipped with an altimeter, barometer, and a three-axis electronic compass, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to understand how their surroundings impact their workout performance. Don’t miss out; check out the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar on Amazon while it’s at the record-low price of $334.31.
Source:
Link
Tags: Fitness Tracking, Garmin Instinct 2X Solar, rugged smartwatch
March 22, 2025
Nintendo Switch Online Adds 4 Exciting New SNES Games
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo Switch Online updated with new retro games in March 2025, featuring titles from Koei Tecmo.
2. “Nobunaga’s Ambition” allows players to command armies and unify Japan through strategic turn-based gameplay.
3. “Nobunaga’s Ambition: Lord of Darkness” enhances familiar mechanics from previous games in the Nobunaga series.
4. “Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV: Wall of Fire” focuses on managing cities and armies to unite China, similar to Civilization.
5. “Uncharted Waters: New Horizons” offers a historical piracy adventure with sailing and a dueling mini-game option.
Nintendo has recently made some exciting updates to their Nintendo Switch Online retro console, unveiling new games in their “Super NES — March 2025” video released on March 20, 2025. The update features four games from Koei Tecmo, one of which is Nobunaga, a prominent character in Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed: Shadows. Below is the detailed list of games included.
Nobunaga’s Ambition
Nobunaga’s Ambition stands out as a strategic turn-based game that was among the earliest in this genre. In this game, players command armies in an effort to unify Japan. You can choose from various historical scenarios with influential daimyos, or lords/generals, which will shape the narrative based on your selections.
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Lord of Darkness
The fourth installment in the Nobunaga series, Nobunaga’s Ambition: Lord of Darkness, brings fresh updates to the mechanics that fans are familiar with. This title builds on the legacy of its predecessors while enhancing gameplay.
Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV: Wall of Fire
Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV: Wall of Fire is a strategy simulation game where players are tasked with managing cities and armies in their quest to unite China under a single ruler. Players must carefully balance resources like food and their citizens’ happiness, while also reacting to the actions of other lords, much like in Sid Meier’s Civilization.
Uncharted Waters: New Horizons
Uncharted Waters: New Horizons is the second entry in the Uncharted Waters series and takes players on a historical adventure centered around piracy. This game emphasizes sailing and captures many elements of maritime life from its historical setting. Additionally, it features a dueling mini-game option that can sometimes substitute for regular battles that occur between ship fleets.
You can now play all four of these titles on the Nintendo SNES app, among numerous others. For more details about these newly added games, check out the video linked below.
Koei Tecmo Fandom Pages [Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Nobunaga’s Ambition, Uncharted Waters: New Horizons, Uncharted Waters (series)]
Source:
Link

Tags: KOEI TECMO, Nintendo Switch Online, Nobunaga’s Ambition
March 22, 2025
Ghostrunner 2 Hits Lowest Price Ever: Details Inside
Key Takeaways
1. Price Drop: Ghostrunner 2 is now available for $9.99 on Steam due to the Spring Sale by 505Games.
2. Bundle Offers: A bundle combining both Ghostrunner games is available at a 73% discount for $17.08.
3. Complete Edition: The first game is offered in a complete edition at half price ($19.99), including all DLCs and the soundtrack.
4. Challenging Gameplay: Both games feature challenging gameplay and maintain a “Very Positive” rating on Steam.
5. Sale Deadline: The sale ends on March 27th, so interested players should purchase quickly.
Ghostrunner 2 is now available at its lowest price of $9.99 on Steam, thanks to the Spring Sale by 505Games. In this game, you take on the role of a cyber ninja navigating a post-apocalyptic world filled with cyberpunk aesthetics and advanced technology. You will fight through enemies and face off against massive bosses while parkour-ing your way through expansive levels. Just like the first game, it’s a fight to survive.
Exciting Bundles Available
Currently, there’s a bundle that combines both games at a fantastic 73% discount, bringing the total to $17.08. If you’re new to the series and want to explore what the first game offers, there’s a complete edition available for half off at just $19.99. This edition includes the base game along with all its DLCs (cosmetic items included) plus the soundtrack composed by Daniel Deluxe.
Challenging Gameplay Awaits
Both installments are known for their challenging gameplay, but they have managed to maintain a “Very Positive” rating on Steam. This makes them attractive options for gamers who enjoy parkour or slasher styles of play.
Don’t forget, the sale for both titles will finish on March 27th, so if you’re interested, make sure to grab them quickly!
Ghostrunner 2 and Ghostrunner can both be found on Steam, as well as Steam DB.
Source:
Link
Tags: 505Games, Cyberpunk, Ghostrunner 2
March 22, 2025
Affordable DIY Eavesdropping Device for Lightning-Fast Listening
Key Takeaways
1. Basic Components: A functioning laser microphone can be made using three main parts: a laser, a photodiode, and an amplifier circuit. An optional fourth component can enhance its capability.
2. Working Principle: The laser microphone captures sound by directing a laser beam onto a glass surface. Vibrations from sounds modulate the laser reflection, which the photodiode detects and converts back into audio.
3. Easy Sourcing: Photodiodes can be easily sourced from devices like televisions or smoke detectors, while the amplifier circuit can be modified from existing electronics.
4. Setup and Configuration: Proper setup involves replacing a built-in mic with a photodiode, modifying a USB cable for power, and positioning the laser beam correctly to ensure effective audio capture.
5. Performance Limitations: The system can be affected by environmental vibrations and obstacles. Improvements, such as using a 3D-printed case and adding a filter, can enhance performance.
With so many electrical parts available today, it’s no wonder that anyone can create a functioning laser microphone from common items. You can find the necessary components at online stores, or even scavenge from e-waste lying around your home. By using three main parts, and optionally a fourth, anyone can eavesdrop on sounds from afar with a homemade laser mic. The process is quite simple, provided the user has a device capable of recording mono audio.
How Laser Microphones Work
According to SomethingAboutScience, the way a laser microphone operates is by directing a laser beam onto a window or picture frame inside a room. The beam’s reflection is captured by a photodiode. Any sounds produced within the room create vibrations in the glass, which in turn modulates the laser reflection. The photodiode is then able to detect these changes and convert them back into audio. Interestingly, SomethingAboutScience mentions that you don’t necessarily need a red laser; an infrared laser can be a stealthy alternative.
Sourcing Components
Finding a photodiode is quite easy since it’s commonly found as an infrared receiver in televisions and certain smoke detectors. However, the diode cannot work by itself because the signal from the laser is too weak. This is where an amplifier circuit becomes useful; it amplifies the signal, provides necessary power, and transmits mono sound. In this instance, a modified amplifier circuit similar to the MAX9814 was utilized. To create the laser microphone, the built-in mic is taken out and swapped for the photodiode. A USB cable is then modified and soldered to the circuit board for power, and a mono audio wire with a jack is attached for audio output. Once everything is set up, it’s just a matter of positioning the laser so the beam strikes the photodiode at a perfect angle to capture the sound modulations effectively.
Limitations of the Setup
Though this assembly is straightforward, it comes with some drawbacks in terms of performance. For one, both the laser and the photodiode can be affected by vibrations in the environment, and any objects between them can interrupt the audio transmission. To help improve this somewhat, SomethingAboutScience created a 3D-printed case and added a filter to the receiver, leading to slightly better results. In summary, this project is open to further improvements and highlights how a bit of DIY creativity can yield great results. Those curious can explore more about the construction and outcomes via the links provided below.
Tags: DIY Electronics, Laser Microphone, MAX9814
March 22, 2025
Xiaomi Surpasses Ford and GM in China’s EV Market in 2024
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi outsold Ford and GM in China’s electric vehicle market within a year of entering the industry.
2. The SU7 electric sedan achieved sales of 136,854 units last year, becoming a top choice among consumers.
3. Ford’s Mustang Mach-E sold only 999 units in China, while GM sold 69,403 EVs, with local partnerships performing better.
4. The SU7 reached 100,000 units in just 229 days and doubled that figure in an additional 119 days.
5. Xiaomi plans to increase production, targeting 350,000 deliveries by 2025, with the SU7 Pro and YU7 SUV launching soon.
Xiaomi is making waves in the automotive industry. The Chinese brand outsold both Ford and GM in the electric vehicle (EV) market in China, achieving this in just under a year since entering the field.
Successful Launch of the SU7
The electric sedan, SU7, has become a favorite among consumers, with Xiaomi reporting sales of 136,854 units last year. This impressive number has catapulted them to the top of the sales charts.
In comparison, Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, which was the second most popular EV in the US for 2024, only managed to sell 999 units in China. The automaker does offer other electric models like the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit, yet these were not available in the Chinese market.
GM’s Performance in China
General Motors sold a total of 69,403 EVs under its various brands in China. However, its local partnerships performed significantly better, with Baojun and SAIC-Wulin selling 33,630 and 602,952 units, respectively.
In the US, Ford and GM sold approximately 98,000 and 114,000 units, respectively, showing a stark contrast to their performances in China.
Xiaomi’s Future Plans
Xiaomi’s emergence in the EV sector has been truly remarkable. The SU7, priced under $30,000, reached the milestone of 100,000 units in just 229 days, and it only took 119 more days to double that figure. With plans to ramp up production, the company is targeting 350,000 deliveries for 2025. The SU7 Pro is already fully booked for the year, and the YU7 SUV is set to launch in June or July.
Source:
Link
Tags: Ford, GM, SU7, Xiaomi