Category: Gaming

Over a year has gone by since we last talked about the Re-shell kit for Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED. To summarize, this kit was meant to turn either console into a home gaming system. While it might seem a bit odd at first, the Re-shell kit could really help breathe new life into a Switch that had a broken screen. Additionally, the kit’s better cooling features helped to tap into the Switch’s overclocking capabilities.

Popularity and Drawbacks

Despite the popularity of the Re-shell kit in the Switch modding community, it had its flaws. For one, the kit didn’t provide access to external MicroSD and USB Type-A ports. Plus, it couldn’t stop a Switch or Switch OLED from leaving its fan on when plugged into power. Thankfully, Macho Nacho Productions reports that the developer SetEngineering has fixed these problems with the new Switch NXii kit, which they’ve nicknamed the ‘Switch Pro shell mod.’

New Features and Compatibility

It’s important to note that this fresh kit only works with V1 and V2 consoles. In response to feedback from users, SetEngineering has added a fan control PCB and an SD card breakout board. This means that the Switch NXii can now turn off the fan when the console is in sleep mode or completely powered down. Additionally, users can now easily access the MicroSD card reader and USB Type-A ports located on the left side of the kit.

Enhanced Performance and Pricing

The new kit is also compatible with a Noctua NF-A9x14 PWM 92 mm fan (currently priced at $18.95 on Amazon), in contrast to the 80 mm unbranded fan that came with the Re-shell kit. Because of this, the Switch NXii kit allows for a modded Switch to operate at 50% RAM, 50% GPU, and 125% CPU overclocks without facing any heat issues. In fact, Macho Nacho Productions has shown that their Switch Pro shell mod achieves a temperature drop of 7.5°C on the PCB.

Even better, the Switch NXii kit comes with brass inserts for easier assembly. This means you won’t need to glue or solder anything together. Right now, you can buy the kit on Etsy, either with or without a Noctua fan for $95 and $110, respectively. Additionally, SetEngineering has a vertical stand available for $15, and you can choose from nine different primary and secondary color options. For more details, check out the video by Macho Nacho Productions and SetEngineering’s product listings linked below.

Source: Link

Fortnite has introduced a new game mode called Ballistic, which is currently in early access. This mode offers a fresh twist on the classic Fortnite gameplay by having two teams of five players compete in a search-and-destroy format. Teams are divided into attackers and defenders, switching roles at the halfway point, and the match is won by the first team to score seven points. Players begin each round with a market system that allows them to buy upgraded weapons and items using credits they earn during the game. With familiar mechanics, it’s easy and enjoyable to pick up, but there are some issues, particularly regarding the experience with teammates.

Match Duration and Gameplay Dynamics

Matches are typically quick, wrapping up in about 20 minutes, although they can extend if teams play slowly. Initially, players start with only a pistol but soon unlock access to all nine weapons and four consumables, including shields, after the first few rounds. If a player is eliminated in a round, they will lose their purchased weapon but can earn enough credits to buy it back in the next round. Players who are eliminated do not respawn until the following round, adding another layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Map Design and Tactical Play

At the moment, there is just one map available. Fortunately, the A and B bomb sites are spaced far apart with varied terrain, keeping matches from feeling repetitive. The landscape allows for easy flanking and cross-firing opportunities that benefit both teams, keeping players engaged. This positioning is particularly crucial given the gunplay mechanics and time-to-kill (TTK) dynamics of the Ballistic mode.

When it comes to gunplay, Ballistic mirrors games like Counter-Strike 2 by significantly limiting aiming precision while moving. This feature emphasizes the importance of counter-strafing, peeking, and headshots to effectively lower a player’s TTK. During testing, the average TTK was found to be between one to three seconds, and utilizing the aforementioned tactics can make this time even shorter. Consumables, like flashbangs, are also essential in reducing TTK, and weapon choices play a big role, too. In the current version, the “Nemesis AR” and “Reaper Sniper Rifle” are favored options due to the “Nemesis AR” being easy to control and the “Reaper Sniper Rifle” being capable of taking down an enemy in one hit. Overall, the weapon mechanics felt solid and enjoyable, but teamwork is key to securing victory.

Team Dynamics and Player Retention

Finding teammates in Ballistic is generally fast, but maintaining a stable team can be challenging. During testing, both teams frequently lost players, resulting in one-sided matches. Occasionally, a replacement may join, but this often happens only after a significant number of points have already been scored. Unfortunately, many matches faced this issue, diminishing the overall experience. It’s hoped that as the Ballistic mode develops, Fortnite developers will introduce features to encourage players to remain in games. Until that happens, casual matchmaking remains fun, although it can lead to mixed experiences with teammates.