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7 Step Guide to Set Up a New Chromebook
Apart from a new car and possibly a new house, there’s nothing more exciting than getting a new computer. A brave new world of possibility opens up when you plug that new laptop in for the first time. And in the case of a new Acer Chromebook, in just a few minutes after unboxing, you can be surfing the internet, multitasking and enjoying the new Chromebook experience in all its glory.
If you’re planning on getting a new Chromebook, good choice, and if you’ve already purchased a new Chromebook, and you’re figuring out your new Chromebook setup, congrats, you’re in the right place. Today we’re going to help you set up your new Chromebook like the boss of all bosses. We’ll cover all the vital steps, from downloading the best apps for Chromebook, to updating, customizing, and even how to secure your Chromebook. There’s lots to do, so let’s get started!
1. Complete Setup & Updates
Before you get down to work on your new Chromebook, there’s some basic housekeeping tasks that need to be attended to. While your new device is, well, new, technology moves quickly, and it won’t be long until you’ll want to update your Chromebook.
For the fastest, smoothest, and most responsive all-round Chromebook experience, completing your setup and syncing to your other devices is a must. By taking this step, all of your preferences, settings, and even bookmarks will be applied across your Google devices. So, make sure you’ve got a Google account and your password handy, then connect to Wi-Fi and sign in with your Google account. To sync your device:
Click the Settings icon > select You and Google > click Sync and Google Services.
Sorting your updates is similarly important, this will ensure ongoing device optimization by keeping your drivers and firmware up to date. Follow these steps to ensure the smooth runnings of your Chromebook for years to come:
Click the Settings icon > select About ChromeOS > click Check for updates.
2. Customize Your Chromebook
While your trusty new Chromebook may resemble many others in form, you’re an individual, and so is your Chromebook! Forget grey, boring, one-size-fits-all computing, make your new device truly yours. No matter how you choose to use your Chromebook, your wallpaper and your go to apps are all unique: customization is king! So, first of all you might want to set the scene and customize your wallpaper and theme. Simply go to Settings > click Personalization.
Don’t waste time looking for things you need, pin them to the shelf. For quick access to your favorite apps, simply choose the app you want to select and right-click > Pin.
Once you’ve sorted the look and the layout of your new Chromebook, it's time to add the personal touch to your device, and adjust touchpad settings:
Click the Settings icon > select Device > click Touchpad.
3. Install essential apps
The beauty of Chromebooks lies in their simplicity and practicality. With all of the great Google services at your command, make the most of productivity apps, including Google Docs for cloud based word processing and document editing. Let’s not forget Google Keep, your note-taking app for text, voice, and image notes, as well as checklists and reminders.
Keep your Chromebook well-organized for increased efficiency: file management is a breeze with Files by Google, while Snapdrop covers all your fast transfer needs. Moving on to media, VLC Media Player, Spotify, and YouTube Music are the bare essentials, and if you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of cloud gaming, then GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming are your ride or die companions in the gaming universe.
4. Improve performance & battery life
Keeping your Chromebook performing at its best is in your best interests! Treat it right, and it will treat you right, delivering years of trouble free, no-frills computing. First, you’ll want to limit open tabs to reduce RAM usage while browsing the internet. Next, let’s deal with unused extensions which can really slow your steed down:
Launch Chrome > Click Extensions (under More tools) > Select Extension > Click Remove > Confirm Removal.
To conserve battery power, remember to lower screen brightness and disable Bluetooth when not in use. You should also adjust sleep and power settings to suit your requirements: Click the Settings icon > Select Device > Click Power.
5. Secure your Chromebook
By taking a few simple steps, you can safeguard your Chromebook against the ever-evolving threats out there in the wild west that is the world wide web. For general privacy, remember to set up a PIN or password: Click Settings icon > select Security & Privacy > click Lock screen.
For an extra layer of protection, enable two-factor authentication for your Google account. Finally, just in case you manage to lose your Chromebook, remember to fit it with a GPS tracker. You can also remote sign out of your Google account, as well. Here’s a helpful guide to finding your lost device.
6. Set up offline access
Another fine feature of the Google suite of apps in your new Chromebook is the possibility of offline access. There are several approaches to ensuring access wherever you go, regardless of internet connections. For rock-solid, fail-free file access, simply download your most-important files for offline use.
Enabling various Google apps can also improve your offline Chromebook experience. To enable Google Drive offline: Click Drive > Select Settings > Enable Offline.
Similarly, if you wish to enable Gmail offline: Open Gmail > Click Settings > Select Offline > Enable offline mail.
7. Explore Chromebook Features
As with any new tech that you might invest in, taking time to investigate the features of Chromebook can be a rewarding experience. In need of a helping hand? Then try Google Assistant (simply press the Search key and ask a question).
For multitasking, give Virtual Desks a go: Search + [ or ]. Finally, when it comes to file transfer forget email, messenger apps, and file transfer apps! For quick file transfers to people nearby, just enable Nearby Share, and your files will be transported in the blink of an eye.
Chrome standard
We hope that you’ve enjoyed our foray into the fun and efficient world of setting up your new Chromebook. As you can see -while Chromebooks offer great straight-out-of-the-box usability, with a bit of planning and preparation, you can set up a winning machine. So, before you get down to work on your new device, follow the seven steps covered in this article, and set yourself up for years of trouble-free Chromebook computing.
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How to Fix a Stuck or Dead Pixel: 5 Easy Methods to Try
Modern digital displays are made up of pixels, or tiny blocks of light. Each pixel consists of a subpixel that emits different intensities of red, green, and blue color to create our favorite TV shows, movies, and games. Pixels can either be backlit by an additional panel like LCD screens, or individually lit like OLED screens, but both run the risk of stuck or dead pixels. Let’s take a look at the differences between the two and how to fix them.
Stuck pixels vs. dead pixels
We see vibrant images on our screens thanks to millions of colored pixels. But what happens when one or more of these pixels stops working? A stuck pixel is characterized by a stubborn dot of light appearing in the same place that does not seem to change with the rest of the image. It could be red, green, blue, or a combination. Stuck pixels may appear because of a manufacturing defect, a transistor failure, or a temporary electronic issue, and can disturb the viewing experience. Like other pixels, stuck pixels continue to receive power from the source, but incomplete information means they do not light up as intended.
In contrast, a dead pixel is always off and tends to display a continuous black color. They are usually the result of physical damage or a manufacturing defect and reduce the overall screen real estate. Dead pixels do not continue to receive power and are therefore more difficult to rectify.
How to fix a stuck or dead pixel
The first step to fixing pixel issues is to figure out whether it is a stuck or dead pixel. Digital display users can do this by switching to a pure black screen and observing whether or not any pixels are still lit. Similarly, switching to a completely white screen will reveal if there are any dead pixels, which will appear as a continuous black dot.
Once we know what kind of pixel issue we are dealing with, we can try to rectify it using the following suggestions.
1. Turn the monitor off and on
It may be a classic solution to many IT-related issues, but switching a computer monitor off and on can resolve stuck pixels that appear due to temporary electronic faults. Rebooting the device can re-energize stuck pixels and leave them working as normal. Try this method multiple times for stubborn pixels, but be aware it will not work for dead pixels.
2. Try software fixes
Downloading and installing software such as JScreenFix, PixelHealer, UDPixel, or DPT Dead Pixel Trainer can locate stuck or dead pixels and provide free solutions to try and fix them. JScreenFixstates it can fix many stuck pixels in under 10 minutes, while PixelHealer uses a tried-and-tested method of flashing RGB colors over dead or stuck pixels to revive them. These software are user-friendly and a good first point of call when resolving pixel issues.
3. Massage the area
A pixel massage, or gently massaging the area around the affected pixel, can also rectify stuck pixels. First, switch off the monitor and apply soft pressure to the area using a cloth to protect the screen. While doing this, turn the display back on and release the pressure. This method can release stuck pixels by getting the liquid crystal moving. However, users are advised to exercise caution when trying a pixel massage, as too much pressure can break the monitor.
4. Use a slightly warm cloth
Warmth can also resolve pixel issues and help liquid crystals flow properly. Use a warm (not hot!) and dry cloth and gently press it against the affected area while the screen is still on.
5. Use the Acer warranty
Acer device users experiencing dead or stuck pixels can check whether or not the device is still under warranty. Warranty upgrades such as a basic extended service to prolong coverage are available on the Acer website.
Stuck and dead pixels: final thoughts
Pixels are tiny lights that work together to create images in games, movies, or TV shows on our screens. However, as with any technology, they are susceptible to faults or damage. Stuck or dead pixels manifest as continuous black or colored dots on a device screen. Although they can be annoying, there are a few ways to resolve pixel issues. These include massaging the stuck or dead pixel, switching devices off and on again, or getting it fixed via the manufacturer if the device is still under warranty.
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Why Assassin’s Creed Shadows is Ubisoft's Most Important Game of 2025
Ubisoft has been a pillar of the gaming industry for decades, delivering some of the most beloved franchises in gaming history. From the tactical brilliance of Rainbow Six Siege to the open-world exploration of Far Cry, and, of course, the iconic Assassin’s Creed series, the company has cemented itself as a dominant force in the industry.
But in recent years, Ubisoft has faced challenges. Some of its recent titles, like Skull and Bones and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, have struggled to meet fan expectations, either due to long development cycles, live-service concerns, or uninspired design. At the same time, the company has faced some financial woes, reporting a 31.4% drop in revenue and a 51.8% decline in net bookings in its latest financial results.
Now, Ubisoft finds itself at a crossroads. And the company’s biggest chance to turn things around? Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Ubisoft’s recent struggles and the need for a win
Ubisoft has had a tough run in recent years, with some of its most anticipated projects missing the mark.
* Skull and Bones (2024): After an 11-year development cycle and a lot of sunk doubloons, Ubisoft’s pirate game finally launched in 2024, but it was met with lukewarm reception. Many players felt it lacked depth and excitement compared to past pirate-themed experiences like Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.
* Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (2023): Despite carrying the massive Avatar brand, this game failed to break into mainstream success. While it featured breathtaking visuals, some players found its gameplay formula too predictable, echoing familiar Ubisoft open-world mechanics.
* Star Wars Outlaws (2024): This title was anticipated as the first open-world Star Wars game. However, it received mixed reviews, with critics noting that, despite its engaging protagonist and rich lore, the game suffered from repetitive activities and a lack of depth. Sales were also below expectations, leading Ubisoft to adjust its financial forecasts and delay other projects, including Assassin's Creed Shadows.
* XDefiant (2024): Ubisoft’s attempt to enter the competitive shooter space with XDefiant ultimately ended in cancellation after multiple delays, leading to layoffs and internal restructuring.
Despite these challenges, Ubisoft remains a powerhouse in the industry, and not all of its recent games have struggled. Rainbow Six Siege continues to thrive, and The Crew Motorfest has shown strong player retention. The company now hopes Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be the game that not only restores fan confidence.
Why Assassin’s Creed Shadows Could Be Ubisoft’s Redemption
Throughout Ubisoft’s history, Assassin’s Creed has been its most reliable and beloved franchise. From Black Flag to Origins, and from Odyssey to Valhalla, the series has consistently delivered some of Ubisoft’s biggest hits.
Now, with Shadows, Ubisoft is doubling down on what makes Assassin’s Creed great, while also pushing the franchise in bold new directions.
Early previews suggest this game has real potential. According to Morgan Park of IGN, who played a six-hour preview build, Shadows is shaping up to be one of the best Assassin’s Creed games in years. Park praises its stealth mechanics, dynamic lighting system, and dual protagonist gameplay, describing it as the strongest stealth package the series has seen in 18 years.
Some standout features include:
* A true stealth experience: Dynamic lighting, a visibility meter similar to Splinter Cell, and realistic enemy AI create an immersive stealth system.
* A smaller but denser open world: Unlike Valhalla’s massive map, Shadows focuses on a highly detailed, city-rich environment that encourages exploration and parkour.
* Distinct character playstyles: Players switch between Naoe, a traditional shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai warrior with vastly different approaches to combat and traversal.
* A living world with seasonal changes: The game will feature dynamic seasons, altering the way the world feels and plays over time.
These features signal that Ubisoft has taken past criticisms to heart, refining its open-world formula and emphasizing meaningful gameplay depth.
Why gamers should give Assassin’s Creed Shadows a chance
It’s easy to be skeptical after some of Ubisoft’s recent missteps. But the early impressions of Assassin’s Creed Shadows indicate that this game could mark a return to form for the company. Unlike past Ubisoft titles that leaned heavily into live-service mechanics, Shadows appears to be a carefully crafted single-player experience with a focus on narrative, immersive stealth, and action-packed samurai combat.
Ubisoft is taking risks, and from the looks of it, those risks are paying off. The combination of deep stealth mechanics, engaging combat, and historical storytelling set against Feudal Japan makes Shadows one of the most exciting Assassin’s Creed games in years.
A crucial moment for Ubisoft
Ubisoft needs Assassin’s Creed Shadows to succeed—not just for financial reasons, but to restore trust in the brand. Fortunately, the game is showing strong signs of delivering a truly great experience. If it lives up to the hype, it could be the game that puts Ubisoft back on top, proving that the company still has what it takes to create industry-defining titles.
The game releases on March 20, 2025, and based on early hands-on impressions, it might just be the redemption arc Ubisoft needs. If you’re a longtime Assassin’s Creed fan or a newcomer looking for an engaging open-world RPG, Shadows might be worth keeping an eye on.
Ubisoft has stumbled in recent years, but if Shadows delivers, it could be the game that reminds players why Assassin’s Creed became a household name in the first place.
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Strongest Weapons in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
In Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, having the right weapon can be the difference between victory and defeat. Whether you favor swords, hammers, or bows, these weapons stand out as the most powerful and effective choices in the game.
1. Sword of Sir Valentine
This one-handed sword is renowned for its exceptional balance and craftsmanship. To acquire it, embark on The Reliquary quest, which leads you to the Sedletz Monastery in the Kuttenberg region. Here, you'll obtain the schematic to forge the sword.
Ensure you have the necessary materials:
* Copper
* Straight Sword Guard
* Cow Skin
* Coin Sword Pommel
* Frankfurt Steel
* Scrap Metal
With a Craftsmanship level of 16 and the "Martin's Secret" perk, you can forge the Sword of Sir Valentine at masterclass quality, boasting impressive stats:
* Strength Requirement: 15
* Agility Requirement: 22
* Stab Damage: 159
* Slash Damage: 167
* Blunt Damage: 25
* Defense: 242
* Durability: 128
* Weight: 1.8
This sword is particularly effective for players who prefer agility and precision in combat.
2. Reforged Radzig Kobyla's Sword
A symbol of heritage and honor, this longsword becomes available during the main storyline, specifically in The Storm mission in the Trosky region. After obtaining Radzig Kobyla's Sword, you can reforge it into its superior version.
To do so, gather three units of Toledo Steel, which can be purchased from blacksmiths in Kuttenberg. With the materials in hand and the "Martin's Secret" perk unlocked, proceed to a smithy to craft the reforged sword.
* Strength Requirement: 20
* Agility Requirement: 23
* Stab Damage: 199
* Slash Damage: 190
* Blunt Damage: 38
* Defense: 299
* Durability: 240
* Weight: 1.9
This weapon is ideal for players seeking a balance between strength and agility, delivering substantial damage with each strike.
3. Duelling Longsword
Designed for precision and agility, the Duelling Longsword is a slender blade that excels in quick and precise strikes. It is a top choice for players who enjoy finesse-based swordplay.
To obtain it, you'll need to craft the weapon using the following materials:
* Deer Skin
* Horned Sword Guard
* Pear Sword Pommel
* Toledo Steel (x3)
* Iron (x2)
Once you have gathered the materials, visit a blacksmith to forge the Duelling Longsword.
* Strength Requirement: 18
* Agility Requirement: 17
* Stab Damage: 87
* Slash Damage: 83
* Blunt Damage: 17
* Defense: 272
* Durability: 220
* Weight: 1.9
The Duelling Longsword is perfect for quick duels, allowing for fast, calculated attacks with minimal weight.
4. Ramhead Hammer
The Ramhead Hammer is a devastating war hammer designed for brute-force attacks, making it ideal for smashing through armor. Its heavy blunt damage is perfect against heavily armored enemies.
To acquire the Ramhead Hammer, complete The Thunderstone quest. During the quest, locate Ramshead, an NPC who carries a key. This key unlocks a chest in a shack near his camp. Inside, you'll find the Ramhead Hammer along with valuable armor.
* Strength Requirement: 22
* Agility Requirement: N/A
* Stab Damage: 95
* Slash Damage: 134
* Blunt Damage: 234
* Defense: N/A
* Durability: 240
* Weight: 11.1
This weapon is best for players who prefer raw power over finesse, delivering devastating blows in close combat.
5. Ranyek's Bow
A legendary longbow, Ranyek’s Bow is renowned for its high power and precision, making it a deadly choice for archers and ranged combat specialists.
To obtain Ranyek’s Bow, you must loot Ranyek after digging him out of the sewage in Bylany. This event occurs during a questline in which you track down the scattered members of the Dry Devil gang.
* Strength Requirement: 14
* Agility Requirement: 14
* Power: 200
* Durability: 100
* Weight: 4.0
This bow is perfect for stealth archers, allowing for long-range engagements with deadly accuracy.
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Best Early Game Tips for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2) isn’t your typical RPG—it’s a brutal, immersive, and highly realistic medieval experience that rewards preparation, strategy, and adaptability. Whether you’re looting shops, mastering combat, or making the most of perks and mechanics, your early choices can make or break your journey. Instead of rushing through the story, take the time to steal smart, fight smarter, and explore every opportunity the game offers. These 10 tips will help you navigate the challenging world of Bohemia, ensuring that you start strong and stay ahead.
1. Theft is key to a good early start
Stealing is one of the fastest ways to gain a massive advantage in KCD2, especially in the early game when money and equipment are scarce. Vendors and unique NPCs often carry valuable goods, and many of them keep their shop inventories locked away in chests—chests that can be accessed with a little cunning. Instead of struggling to afford weapons, armor, or potions, players can pickpocket shopkeepers for their keys, bypassing difficult locks and gaining access to their entire stock. The best time to strike is at night when vendors are asleep, as this is when you can easily pickpocket them without being seen. Most merchant chests and shop doors require Hard or Very Hard lockpicking skills, which you likely won’t have early on, making stealing the key the smartest and easiest way in. Once inside, you can loot everything they have for free, ensuring you’re well-equipped without spending a single Groschen.
Don’t feel guilty about robbing the vendors—after a few in-game days, they’ll restock, and you can even repeat the process if needed. With perks like Hustler, you can take your stolen loot and sell it right back to them. Beyond merchants, raiding ***** camps and grave sites for hidden treasures can set you up with thousands of Groschen before most players have even completed their first major quest. Whether you want high-tier gear, free potions, or a quick payday, mastering theft is the ultimate shortcut to a strong start.
2. Use all your outfit load-outs
Your outfit isn’t just for looks—it directly affects your effectiveness in different aspects of the game. Since you can create three loadouts, it’s crucial to optimize them for specific tasks: combat, theft, and speech checks.
Before heading into battle, equip your combat loadout, which should focus on high-defense armor and a strong weapon. Once combat starts, you can’t swap gear, so preparing beforehand is essential. Heavy plate armor provides excellent protection but can slow you down, whereas lighter armor offers more mobility at the cost of defense. Finding the right balance based on your playstyle can mean the difference between life and death in a fight.
For sneaking and stealing, a theft loadout is a must. Dark, lightweight clothing with minimal noise ensures you stay undetected while sneaking, lockpicking, or pickpocketing. Wearing metal armor makes too much noise, making stealth missions unnecessarily difficult.
Meanwhile, a speech-optimized loadout will help in conversations, trade, and social interactions. Well-maintained, stylish clothes, jewelry, and accessories increase your charisma, improving persuasion checks, haggling, and even the chance to avoid conflicts entirely. Keeping these load-outs organized and switching between them before engaging in different activities will make your journey much smoother.
3. Find Mutt as soon as possible
One of the best early-game decisions you can make is completing the quest to find your dog, Mutt. He’s an invaluable ally, especially in combat, where you’re still learning the mechanics and haven’t built up your strength. Mutt can bait enemy aggro, distracting foes so you can land hits more safely or even retreat if necessary. This is a game-changer when facing multiple opponents, as he helps prevent you from getting overwhelmed.
Beyond combat, Mutt also has utility in exploration and survival. He can sniff out hidden items, track down NPCs, and even assist in hunting. Having him by your side makes many aspects of the game easier, and since he doesn’t require much upkeep, there’s no reason to delay getting him. Prioritize this quest early, and you’ll have a loyal companion who will help you in fights, loot hunting, and more throughout your journey. Just remember to feed and pet him now and then, or else his obedience level will drop.
4. Master combat mechanics, combos, and Master Strike
Combat in this game is skill-based and punishes button-mashing, making it crucial to learn the mechanics early. Understanding stamina management, attack angles, and blocking will set you apart from enemies who can quickly overwhelm you if you’re careless. One of the most important things to master is the Perfect Block, which uses no stamina and sets up counterattacks. Once you’re comfortable with blocking, Master Strike should be your next priority—this powerful counterattack lets you deflect an enemy’s strike and immediately retaliate, often turning the tide of battle instantly. You can learn it from Tomcat at the Nomad Camp, and it’s well worth the effort.
Combos are another essential skill, as they let you chain attacks together for maximum damage. Unlike random swings, executing proper combos lets you break through an opponent’s defense, which is crucial against tougher enemies wearing armor. Different weapons have different combos, and you can pay NPC combat trainers to teach you new ones throughout the game. Some trainers are only available for a limited time, so if you come across one, take advantage of their lessons before they disappear. Training at combat arenas, sparring with NPCs, and consistently practicing will reinforce these mechanics, ensuring you don’t get steamrolled in real fights. Mastering combat early will make later encounters far less punishing and give you a serious advantage against skilled opponents.
5. Never buy a horse—steal one instead
Horses are essential for traveling quickly, but there’s no reason to spend thousands of Groschen on one when you can simply steal one for free. Buying a good horse can cost upwards of 7,000 Groschen, whereas stealing and registering one at a Horse Handler costs only a fraction of that price. The best way to do this is to steal a horse at night, when fewer NPCs are around to witness the theft. Once you have the horse, ride straight to a Black Market Horse Handler, such as the one at the Nomad Camp in the Trosky region, to make it legally yours.
Be careful, though—getting caught stealing a horse can lead to serious consequences, including fines or even execution in extreme cases. To avoid this, make sure you’re unseen before mounting a stolen horse, and immediately ride out of the area at full speed. If you play it smart, you’ll have a top-tier horse without breaking the bank, making your early game much easier without draining your funds.
6. Stick with Pebbles and unlock "Good Old Pebbles"
If you love Pebbles and don’t want to swap him out for a better horse, you’re in luck—he eventually becomes one of the best horses in the game. By riding him for 35 kilometers, you’ll unlock the Good Old Pebbles perk. This hidden perk drastically boosts all of Pebbles' stats, turning him into a late-game powerhouse without needing to buy an expensive replacement.
Once the perk unlocks, Pebbles' stats improve significantly, giving him 216 stamina, 358 carry capacity, 53 speed, and 12 courage, making him comparable to some of the best horses available. To get this perk as quickly as possible, avoid fast travel and always ride Pebbles instead of running on foot. If you're patient and stick with him, you’ll save thousands of Groschen while keeping a loyal and well-upgraded steed for the rest of your adventure.
If you decide to swap out Pebbles for Herring in the Back to the Saddle Quest, it too will have a similar hidden perk that buffs its stats called the “Red Herring” perk (unlocks after 50 kilometers).
7. Alchemy is broken
Alchemy is one of the most underrated yet powerful mechanics in the game, and mastering it early can give you a massive advantage. Unlike buying potions, brewing your own is cheap, efficient, and highly customizable. Healing potions like Marigold Decoction will keep you alive in tough fights, while other brews, such as Painkiller and Aqua Venalis, reduce stamina drain and slow bleeding. Buff potions can temporarily boost Speech, Lockpicking, and combat stats, giving you an edge in difficult situations.
The best part? You don’t need to waste Groschen on recipes—just look them up on a KCD2 guide or steal them from vendors and alchemists. Once you know a recipe, you can brew the potion without ever needing to buy the formula. On top of being useful, potions sell for a lot of money, making Alchemy one of the best money-making methods in the game. If you invest in the Secrets of Secrets perk, you can brew Henry-quality potions, which are even more effective and valuable. Keep picking herbs, crafting potions, and selling extras for easy profit—you’ll never be short on Groschen again.
8. Get the Liberal Arts perk for easier skill checks
The Liberal Arts perk is one of the most useful perks in the game, especially if you plan on engaging in Speech, Charisma, or other skill-based interactions. Normally, when you encounter a skill check—whether it’s persuading an NPC, intimidating someone, or passing a reading requirement—you only see your own stats, leaving you guessing how difficult the check actually is. With Liberal Arts, you’ll get a clear indicator of how tough the check is before committing to a choice, allowing you to pick the best approach and avoid unnecessary failures.
This perk is especially valuable early on when you’re still developing your character’s skills. It helps you determine when you should use a Speech buff potion, wear Charisma-boosting clothes, or try a different tactic altogether. Without it, you’ll be blindly guessing whether you have a chance at succeeding, which can lead to wasted opportunities and failed negotiations. If you plan on talking your way through encounters, haggling for better deals, or making the most of skill-based interactions, Liberal Arts is a must-have perk.
9. Avoid getting surrounded in combat—it will get you killed
One of the fastest ways to die in combat is to let yourself get surrounded. Unlike one-on-one fights, where you can focus on blocking and countering, multiple enemies will attack you from different angles, leaving you defenseless. Even if you're wearing heavy armor, taking hits from multiple enemies at once will drain your stamina rapidly, making you vulnerable to devastating blows. If you find yourself in a fight against several opponents, your priority should be to keep them in front of you and avoid getting flanked.
Use terrain to your advantage by fighting in narrow spaces like doorways, hallways, or against walls where only one or two enemies can engage you at a time. If you're in an open area, backpedal and reposition yourself to funnel enemies into a line. Also, don’t forget about Mutt—your dog can help pull aggro and create openings for you to strike. If things get too overwhelming, don’t be afraid to run, reposition, or even retreat entirely—staying alive is more important than fighting a losing battle.
10. Take your time and enjoy the game
This isn’t a game you should rush through—the real fun comes from immersing yourself in the world, exploring side quests, and finding creative ways to solve problems. Unlike other RPGs with straightforward objectives, many missions here offer multiple ways to complete them. You can talk your way out of conflicts, sneak past enemies, or brute-force your way through obstacles—it all depends on your playstyle. Taking the time to experiment with different approaches makes every playthrough unique and rewarding. Side quests are just as rich and engaging as the main story, often filled with humor, intrigue, or unexpected consequences. Some side missions even provide unique rewards, rare gear, or valuable skills that can help you in the long run. Instead of racing through the story, slow down, explore, and let the game unfold naturally—the depth of the world is what makes it special.
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Shadow Banning in Video Games: What It Means and How It Works
What is Shadow Banning?
If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to connect with other players, experiencing unusually high ping, or playing against seemingly impossible opponents, you might have been shadow banned. But what does shadow ban mean in the context of video games? Unlike a regular ban that outright prevents a player from logging in, a shadow ban is a subtler, often unannounced restriction that limits a player’s experience without them knowing it directly.
This method is commonly used by game developers to deal with suspected cheaters, toxic players, or those engaging in suspicious behavior without outright banning them. Instead of informing the player that they’ve been penalized, the game may place them in lobbies with other shadow-banned individuals, making the experience frustrating rather than outright blocking them.
How does shadow banning happen in games?
Shadow banning is commonly used in games like Call of Duty and PUBG to limit the experience of players suspected of cheating or engaging in toxic behavior without outright banning them.
The process of shadow banning in video games varies depending on the title, but it often works through automated detection systems or player reports. Popular online multiplayer games, especially competitive ones, use shadow banning as a way to quietly isolate disruptive players.
In most cases, shadow banning can be triggered by:
* Detection of cheating software – If a game’s anti-cheat system detects unauthorized modifications, such as aimbots, wallhacks, or Ximming, the account may be flagged.
* Abnormal gameplay patterns – Unusually high accuracy, superhuman reaction times, or other suspicious stats can trigger a shadow ban.
* Multiple player reports – If several players report an account for cheating or toxic behavior in a short time, developers may impose a shadow ban while reviewing the case.
* Network manipulation – Using a VPN, lag switching, or packet manipulation to gain an unfair advantage can lead to a shadow ban.
How is shadow banning different from a regular ban?
The key difference between a shadow ban and a regular ban is visibility. When a player receives a standard ban, they’re often notified and prevented from playing. However, when someone is shadow banned, they can still play—but under restrictions designed to make the game frustrating.
For example, a shadow ban often results in being placed in high-ping lobbies filled with other shadow-banned players, making it nearly impossible to enjoy the game. Some games also prevent shadow-banned players from finding matches quickly, or only allow them to play at odd hours.
Meanwhile, a regular ban is much more severe—it can be temporary or permanent, preventing access to online features entirely.
How does one get shadow banned?
The most common reasons for getting shadow banned include:
* Using cheats or hacks – Even minor cheating can result in a shadow ban, as many games have zero-tolerance policies.
* Toxic behavior – Excessive harassment, hate speech, or griefing can get a player shadow banned.
* Suspicious activity – Playing with known cheaters, using a VPN, or having an unusually high kill-to-death ratio can raise red flags.
* Excessive reports – If multiple players report your account for cheating or misconduct, a shadow ban may be applied automatically.
How do I know if I’m shadow banned, and can I get unbanned?
If you suspect you’ve been shadow banned, you might be wondering if your account is permanently doomed. The good news? Shadow bans are usually temporary. Depending on the game, shadow bans typically last anywhere from a few days to two weeks before being lifted—assuming there’s no further suspicious activity.
How shadow bans work in competitive online games
Popular games like the Call of Duty series and PUBG frequently implement shadow banning to manage reports of cheating. These games use automated systems to detect suspicious behavior, placing flagged players in lobbies with others who have also been shadow banned.
In many competitive online multiplayer games, shadow bans occur when a player is reported multiple times under suspicion of cheating. These games often use internal algorithms that determine how many reports trigger a shadow ban, but there is no definitive information on the exact number of reports or the timeframe required for a shadow ban to occur.
Once a player is shadow banned, they can only join lobbies with other shadow-banned players, which significantly increases the likelihood of encountering actual cheaters. This ruins the gaming experience by making lobbies frustrating, increasing queue times, and sometimes resulting in extremely high ping.
Many players have reported that shadow bans in various games last exactly a set duration, suggesting that there is no real review process—just an automated timer. While some high-profile players and content creators can get their bans lifted quickly through insider contacts, regular players are left waiting out the entire shadow ban duration.
Final thoughts
Being shadow banned can be frustrating, especially if you don’t know why it happened. The best way to avoid a shadow ban or similar penalties in other games is to play fairly, avoid using cheats, and maintain good sportsmanship. If you’re already shadow banned, patience is key—most restrictions lift after a set period unless there’s strong evidence of wrongdoing.
That said, many players feel that the current shadow banning system is flawed. Mass reports can sometimes cause innocent players to be shadow banned, and the lack of a proper review process leaves players frustrated. While anti-cheat solutions are meant to help, they haven't fully prevented false shadow bans.
Have you ever experienced a shadow ban? Let us know your thoughts!
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