-
Surf the Sands of Time in Atlas Fallen
Brace yourself for Atlas Fallen, the upcoming open-world action RPG game from Deck13. This awesome looking new game is set in a timeless land of desert dunes. After creating your own avatar, you will battle ancient monsters using powerful sand-infused weapons. Atlas Fallen is set to be released on August 10th, 2023, just in time for summer gaming out of the sun. Sounds appealing? Read on to discover more about what the new Atlas Fallen game has to offer.
Frankfurt based Deck13 or more formally, Deck13 Interactive GmbH is a German video game developer and publisher founded in 2001. Renowned for their action RPG games, Deck13’s past offerings include Lords of the Fallen from 2014 and The Surge, released in 2017. Lords of the Fallen is set in a medieval fantasy world where man must fight against gods. Its successor, The Surge finds us in a dystopian future, our exoskeleton clad hero tasked with battling all manner of sci-fi baddies. Both of these games excited players with their intriguing environments and gritty combat. Atlas Fallen promises to deliver in this arena as well. Deck 13 games are renowned for their amazing graphics and intriguing environments. Take a look at the Atlas Fallen trailer, the game promises to deliver stunning graphics and gameplay in the sandy land of Atlas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXI2uHq-XdY
What’s the story?
If you like trudging through muddy fields or crunching through crisp snow, perhaps this game is not for you. Atlas Fallen is about sand, sand, sand. But more on that later. According to the mysterious female warrior in the Atlas Fallen trailer: “The sand has memories, memories of our past when gods walked this world and our heroes stood amongst them. But the gods’ vanity grew, and in their struggle, we were cast away. Only remnants of these stories remain in the sand, in the ruins of this shattered, broken world.” Atlas Fallen takes place in a timeless, medieval fantasy world, where humanity is oppressed by a nefarious god, and the crumbling ruins of a once great civilization lie covered in sand. The hero (you) will fight and gain strength until you are strong enough to battle the embodiment of this evil god. Now, let’s get back to our dance with the sand.
Hand in glove
Sand is the dominant force in the strange, dry land of Atlas. Essence unites every grain of sand and is the basis of an ancient magic. The hero finds the remnants of this magic in the form of an antique artifact called the Gauntlet. The gauntlet gives the hero access to this magic, aiding them in their quest against the tyrannical god and a plethora of god-like mythical beasts. The Gauntlet allows its wearer to control the Essence of the sand, and to shape it into various weapons to destroy the beasts and monsters of the desert.
Alas, like many weapons to come before and after it, the Gauntlet is, unfortunately, prone to malfunction. After it was first forged by a mythical entity, the Gauntlet was dismantled so that no one would ever wield such immense power, ever again. To keep your gauntlet running smoothly, you will require Catalyst Pieces and Shards, to both increase the power of the Gauntlet and to make progress in Atlas Fallen.
We will fight them in the deserts
With your trusty Gauntlet, you will shape the sand into three different weapons during your desert journey. Gaining Momentum is a key part of the gameplay in Atlas Fallen. As you fight, you gain Momentum, and your weapons will increase in size and power, eventually unleashing special skills and abilities to destroy the enemy.
Sandwhip is a swift, efficient weapon that offers versatility and is the fastest way to build up Momentum. Dunecleaver is, as it sounds, a powerful, heavy weapon designed to inflict precise, targeted damage to your enemies. The Dunecleaver comes in two forms, axe for large sweeping attacks and hammer for targeted damage. Knuckledust is ideal for destroying selected threats, it covers both of your forearms and with sufficient Momentum build up, morphs into an extra pair of arms.
Behold, the Mighty Sand Tamer
But, it is not all about fighting in the sand! Channeling the power of the sand has several other functions as well as simply hunting monsters. The Gauntlet is your sand Cadillac, or Jeep in the land of Atlas/ The Gauntlet will allow you to sand slide effortlessly across the shifting dunes, as well as to interact with various structures and objects. The three sand functions are:
* Raise function lets you use sand to lift buildings and objects, unearthing them from deep in the ground. Raising forgotten treasures and ancient ruins and forging new paths over raised structures helps you on your mission in Atlas.
* Air Dash function is a cool way to fly from A to B if you find yourself in the air with the help of the Essence around you. By harnessing the Essence, you can propel yourself to a target, jump across great spaces and go where you want to, pronto.
* Crush function equips you with supernatural strength required to tear chains and magic seals in order to access the forbidden lands of Atlas.
Forecast: sandy with many beasts
Atlas Fallen promises a banquet of brutal combat against terrifying beasts of the desert as well as a safari of beautiful, vast desert landscapes. With the power of the sand slide, you will discover hidden castles, divine cities, forests, and even swamps. Prepare to harness the power of the mystic Gauntlet this summer to free humankind from oppression once and for all!
Remember, you can discover many more of your favorite games, both new and old with Game Pass. If you’re a fan of role playing games, then check out our article about the fantasy world of RPG’s and immerse yourself in this rewarding genre. As the sands of time shift, there is not long to wait until the release date of Atlas Fallen: August 10th 2023. Atlas Fallen will be available on Windows, Playstation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S.
-
A Sneak Peek into the Ghostly Realm of OXENFREE II: Lost Signals
Oxenfree II: Lost Signals, the follow-up to the supernatural, narrative-driven thriller Oxenfree, will launch on July 12, 2023, on mobile, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Steam. The game was developed by Night School Studio, an indie games studio that was recently acquired by Netflix. Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals launches seven years after the original Oxenfree debuted its radio-tuning, time-looping, coming-of-age story. “Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals will take players on a gripping narrative-driven adventure featuring an all-new cast of characters and original story,” Netflix teased in a press release.
Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7AJBSII0Q8
Taking place five years after the events of Oxenfree, Lost Signals follows Riley Poverly, a character who did not appear in the first game. Riley has reluctantly returned to her hometown of Camena to investigate unnaturally occurring radio frequency signals causing disturbances in electronic equipment. Riley soon discovers a long history of ghostly happenings on the nearby Edwards Island and becomes entangled in a frightening, supernatural mystery. Riley takes an entry-level job as an environmental researcher, and one of her main tasks is to plant radio transmitters around Camena to help a research group gather data about the electromagnetic signals that have been plaguing the coastal town. Not everything is as it appears, however, and soon Riley finds herself in conflict with Parentage, a mysterious collective that seems to be manipulating the same strange anomaly that was first discovered in Oxenfree.
Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals gameplay mechanics
Dialogue system
Players will shape the story through Riley’s actions and dialogue choices, taking advantage of Night School Studio’s signature dialogue system. The system involves players selecting dialogue responses from options that pop up above Riley’s head in the form of speech bubbles that slowly start to fade away, imbuing conversations with a natural, organic flow. Each dialogue choice affects Riley’s character development and relationships between characters, influencing the available story paths. Throughout your journey in Camena, your conversations with Jacob, your main companion, and the other characters you encounter along the way will shape how you are perceived and the eventual story outcome.
Once a dialogue response has been selected, Riley will interrupt whoever is speaking to immediately say the chosen response, and this can feel jarring, but the game often tries to make Riley’s interruptions feel natural by having the other characters say empty sentences like “But, you know, it’s something, like,” that a player would feel comfortable cutting short. These kinds of filler sentences, which are ultimately redundant yet commonly used in everyday speech, are a big part of what makes the characters in Lost Signals believable. You can also choose to remain silent during conversations; the other characters will react to that. For example, if you do not respond to a question, the other character will assume that you either do not know the answer or do not want to answer and will react accordingly.
Through this dialogue system, you can control the pace of conversations. If you want to listen to what a character has to say, you can let them speak before responding, although dialogue options may disappear if you wait too long. If you feel strongly about something, you can interject. And if it feels appropriate, you can stay silent. This dialogue system allows the timing of responses to be as important as what is being said.
Walkie-talkie
Those who have played Oxenfree will be familiar with the unique radio mechanic it featured that allowed Alex, the main character of the game, to communicate with mysterious specters and manipulate her world. In Lost Signals, this idea has evolved. Lost Signals features a new walkie-talkie mechanic that puts the player in charge of when and how Riley will engage in conversations with off-screen residents of Camena. From mysterious strangers to locals in need of assistance, the walkie-talkie adds a sense of scale and depth by bringing in side quests and an additional layer of choice. When Riley receives a call on the walkie-talkie, she can decide whether to respond to it, and if she does take the call, she can decide whether to assist the caller.
The walkie-talkie allows Riley to speak to a much wider cast of characters than just nearby companions. The walkie-talkie can be opened at just about any time throughout the game, and players can browse the radio channels until they find someone for Riley to talk to.
Time tears
Time tears are rifts that Riley can open to explore a location in another timeline and see it as it was in the past. In a 2021 preview of Lost Signals, Night School Studio showcased a section of the game in which Riley and Jacob have become trapped while traversing through a cave. Riley opens a time tear to find another way out. The pair are then taken back in time to 1899, at which time the cave happened to be a mine with a working elevator shaft that facilitates their escape. Time tears at other places may open up clues to the backstories of the characters in intriguing and mysterious ways.
Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals graphics and music
The sound design in Lost Signals is one of the game’s most crucial elements and helps build the mood of the game and support its story. The distorted sounds from the walkie-talkie, other ghostly sound effects, and the deeply atmospheric music that follows characters throughout work beautifully together to capture the haunting atmosphere. The soundtrack was created by electronic musician SCNTFC.
Lost Signals features subtle cartoon-like characters that appear tiny atop beautifully drawn backdrops. When Riley and Jacob travel through time tears, the screen fuzzes out like an old VHS tape to exaggerate the time skip. These types of visual glitches, which also include sending things topsy-turvy or completely blurring out the field of vision, intensify during various creepy situations.
Netflix’s shift toward gaming
Netflix, the giant of the film and TV streaming industry, has taken a number of steps toward expanding into video games, starting with the formation of its games division in 2021 and the hiring of Mike Verdu as the company’s “vice president of game development.” Night School Studio was the first gaming studio to be acquired by Netflix. Since then, the streaming giant has acquired several other studios, including Spry Fox, Next Games, and Boss Fight Entertainment. Netflix also opened a new gaming studio in Southern California and established an internal games studio in Helsinki, Finland.
In a recent press release, Netflix revealed that it has 40 games slated for launch this year and 70 in development with its partners. This comes atop the 55 titles the company has already released since its games division was launched. Netflix is primarily focused on mobile gaming, and several of the games already launched are role-playing games. We reviewed the most popular titles they have on offer and came up with a list of the top 10 Netflix games to play.
Oxenfree 2 release date
Lost Signals is slated for release on July 12, 2023, and the game is coming to Switch, PlayStation, Steam, and Netflix. Although Lost Signals will not be released on Xbox, be sure to check out the Xbox Game Pass and see why Acer is an official sponsor.
-
10 Must Play Netflix Games
Introduction
Though Netflix may be the original king of streaming, gone are the days when its top position was secured. In the last couple of years, the streaming landscape has gotten crowded, with streaming services like Disney+, HBO Max, and Paramount+ cropping up seemingly endlessly.
With more and more companies hoping to cash in on the streaming action, no company can afford not to innovate. Despite Netflix’s strong original programming in a wide variety of genres, it is not immune to the market pressures.
To secure both consumers’ attention and their bottom line, Netflix has implemented measures to crack down on shared accounts and introduced a $6.99 per month ad-supported subscription plan. In addition, and perhaps most interestingly, Netflix has released video games on their platform.
How to play games on Netflix
For the moment, video games on Netflix can only be accessed on mobile devices and tablets. That means that you currently are not able to play Netflix games on a TV or computer, though Netflix says they are working on expanding games to more devices.
To play Netflix games, you can either access them directly from the Netflix app or download them from the App Store or Google Play Store. No matter how you access them, however, you will need to log in with your Netflix credentials.
10 must play Netflix games
The catalog of 50+ games on Netflix includes some typical timewasters à la Candy Crush, as you would expect. However, you may be surprised at the high-quality indie games that are also available. Let’s take a look at ten of the best Netflix games.
1) Immortality
Immortality is a thriller about the disappearance of a young actress. Within the game, your objective is to scroll through seemingly unrelated film clips to try to gather clues about the aspiring starlet’s downfall.
Filmed in live action, Immortality has better production values than a lot of the movies and shows on Netflix. This is a great choice for fans of the thriller genre in movies and TV shows who are looking for something more interactive.
2) Stranger Things: 1984
As one of Netflix’s most successful titles, it’s no surprise that Stranger Things also appears in Netflix’s video game catalog. Stranger Things: 1984 is actually one of two different Stranger Things-branded games on Netflix.
The game, stylized to look like an 80s arcade machine, centers around exploring Hawkins. As you play the game through different characters’ perspectives, you collect items and solve puzzles. Definitely a must-play for any self-respecting Stranger Things fan!
3) Stranger Things 3: The Game
In comparison to its companion Stranger Things: 1984, Stranger Things 3: The Game is tied closely to season 3 of the series. In addition to providing a gameplay experience that mirrors events from the show, it expands the universe, opening up brand new adventures. It also features a two-player local co-op mode, so that you can fight your way through the Upside Down with a friend.
Luckily, you don’t need any costly power ups or upgrades to have an optimal gaming experience: the game is totally free of ads, extra fees, and in-app purchases.
4) Asphalt Xtreme
Asphalt Xtreme is Netflix’s racing game. Stretching the graphics capabilities of your smartphone, this game features five game modes, over 300 career events, and more than 1,100 mastery challenges. You can also configure your keyboard to make handheld play comfortable for you or to add features like drift. Users looking to supercharge their gaming experience can purchase in-app upgrades.
5) Krispee Street
Krispee Street describes itself as an “emotional (in a good way!) hidden object game.” The quirky animation makes it feel like you’re jumping into a Netflix original series, and original music and sound effects add to the carefully curated design. The game even features a Daily Wheel of Self-Care, an interesting touch of mental health you normally wouldn’t expect to find in a game.
6) Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is based on a physical card game where players draw cards and hope to avoid an Exploding Kitten. It’s being released as both a game and a series, a first for Netflix. Originally launched as a Kickstarter project six years ago, the franchise has surely come a long way.
7) Heads Up
Heads Up is a game many are familiar with: one player holds a card (or in this case, a mobile device) to their head, while other players shout hints to get the cardholder to guess the person or thing written on their card.
It’s a classic game that many people may already have on their phone, but for Netflix subscribers who don’t already own the game, it’s a great one to have for a party or meet-up.
8) Bowling Ballers
The premise of this game is simple: hit the bowling balls you come across. The levels become increasingly difficult, and the techniques used to knock down the pins expand outside of the classic hand toss to include skateboarding, flying, and more. Though this game may not be a great choice for gamers looking for a well-built universe and RPG interface, it’s definitely a fun way to pass some time.
9) Desta: The Memories Between
Desta: The Memories Between stands out for its original premise. Playing as Desta, you’ll move through surreal, chimerical worlds to work through and process the past. The main element of gameplay involves throwing a ball to move past obstacles and advance in your journey. Though the gaming technique involved is simple, the game’s focus on mental health merits a special mention.
10) Oxenfree
This adventure game full of supernatural thrills is set on an abandoned military island. As the teens of Camena High come face-to-face with the island’s dark past, you’ll have to guide them back to safety. With multiple endings, this game is one to be played over and over again.
Netflix recently purchased the developer of the game, Night School Studio, its first purchase of a gaming company. In buying the company, Netflix has financed the much-anticipated sequel Oxenfree II which will soon be released on the platform.
Conclusion
It’s clear that Netflix’s new catalog of video games has something for everyone, whether you’re a casual scroller or a serious video game buff. Best of all, they are available free of cost and without advertisements for all Netflix subscribers. With this new step forward for streaming services, who knows who will be the next streaming giant to enter the video game market?
-
What is Haptic Technology and How Does It Work?
If you have ever used a smartphone or game console, you have probably used haptic technology without realizing it. Haptic technology enhances the user experience by using simulated feedback that requires interaction with a device. Put simply, haptics connect virtual experience with the physical world through physical touch.
The word haptic originates from the Greek haptesthai, which means to touch. As touch is the most important type of human interaction, creating sensations within products is a great way to make them more memorable. Studies show that 94% of people can correctly identify objects through touch alone. But what is haptic feedback, and why do we need it?
History of haptic technology
Using haptic alerts in devices is nothing new. In fact, they have been a key component of products such as game consoles for at least 30 years. Sega was the first company to incorporate haptics into the arcade game Fonz, allowing players to experience a rumble each time they crashed into another player’s motorcycle. After concluding this enhanced the user experience, gaming companies attached haptics to console controllers through joysticks and steering wheels. Today, haptics are found in most smartphones and smartwatches and are so integrated into our lives that our devices would seem strange without them.
Haptic feedback
Humans are used to relying on sight and hearing when using electronic devices. But haptic feedback uses touch to interact with users. With haptics, our sense of touch also comes into play. And with the haptics industry estimated to be worth a whopping USD $4.8 billion by 2030, electronic device companies are cashing in on our need for sensory stimulation. Let’s take a look at the four main types of haptic feedback.
1) Vibration
Perhaps the most familiar type of haptic technology, vibration is commonly integrated into smartphones and games consoles to enhance usability. Long or short vibrations burst across all or part of the console's controller to increase anticipation as users immerse themselves in the gaming world. As technology advanced, game designers realized they could isolate vibration to certain parts of a controller, providing instant feedback. In a racing game, for example, this could mean a short vibration at the top of the controller as a car accelerates and a long rumble vibration across the entire controller if it crashes.
2) Button stimulation
Buttons also include haptic technology. For example, as users turn up the volume on their smartphones, haptic technology creates touch resistance that feels like a physical object. This enhances usability and helps users monitor their actions. Users will become familiar with button stimulation over time, allowing them to control the volume using touch.
Built-in haptic buttons on smartphone apps also provide feedback. For example, one short vibration may indicate an online payment transaction is complete, whereas two vibrations mean it has failed. Users will eventually recognize whether or not a payment has been successful without waiting for visual confirmation.
3) Thermal
Imagine holding a cup of coffee left to cool at room temperature. It probably feels noticeably warm and quite comfortable to touch. Now imagine the same cup of coffee is freshly boiled. How does it feel? It probably feels uncomfortable and painful as our skin’s receptors are triggered by high temperatures, sending pain signals to the brain.
Heat flow is paramount for thermal haptics. Heat is transferred quickly to simulate different temperatures and appears convincing to users. This gives the illusion of petting a warm dog or touching a cold door handle.
4) Kinesthetic
Imagine putting on a jacket. Instinctively, you can feel the additional weight of the item on your body, and it may feel tight or restrictive depending on the fit. Kinesthetic haptic feedback refers to the physical sensations felt in our joints, muscles, and tendons when we use or wear a certain object.
What are some applications of haptic technology?
Haptic technology devices are usually split into three categories: graspable, touchable, and wearable.
1) Graspable
Graspable devices such as controllers, joysticks, or steering wheels create kinesthetic haptic feedback that is felt throughout our bodies.
2) Touchable
The most common example of touchable haptic technology resides in most peoples’ pockets: the smartphone. Touchable devices like smartphones respond to movements such as taps, long presses, and rotations.
3) Wearable
Wearable haptic technology produces contact sensations such as pressure, temperature, or vibration. For example, smartwatches vibrate as a reminder to increase activity levels, send push notifications, or congratulate users on reaching a specific step count.
Another type of wearable technology includes virtual reality (VR), such as exoskeleton devices. These devices are worn during games to provide a more personalized user experience, using electromechanical motors to create vibrations in certain areas linked to the in-game theme. Recently, Hong Kong-based researchers have created cutting-edge haptic glove technology that lets users feel sensations in their hands when they interact with physical objects. Moreover, the intensity of the sensations is adjusted based on the user’s individual nerve sensitivity levels.
How does haptics technology enhance the user experience?
We live such rich lives that the user experience is now less about the actual experience and more about our imaginations. The sense of touch draws on our emotions which is vital for successful product marketing. But haptics are not just used to create cool in-game effects, they are used in other industries too.
1) Medical
Medical companies can benefit significantly from the use of haptic feedback technology. For example, when used in laparoscopy instruments, doctors can use force feedback to ensure tissues are working normally and identify any abnormalities.
2) Automotive and aviation
Haptic technology is a handy addition to road vehicles, providing drivers with signals, warnings, and other communication alerts. In the aviation industry, haptics provides instructions to the pilot, enhancing the flow of communication for improved safety.
3) Professional training
Studies show that haptic technology is effective in delivering employee training. Using haptic technology to operate workplace machinery is safe and prevents motion sickness, enhancing the training process for employees.
The future of haptics
Technology designers have found ways to incorporate haptics into almost all new devices like laptops, smartphones, and wearables. In the future, we can expect to see haptic technology used more widely in smartphone applications, providing sensations to mimic a helicopter whirring or an insect buzzing. Virtual reality will also improve as designers use haptics to create a more realistic VR experience. Feeling the warmth of a hug or a snake slithering across our body will push VR wearables to new limits. Google’s range of wearable haptics is advancing by sewing conductive yarns into household garments and fabrics like curtains. This would enable users to directly control the temperature or movement through gestures and movements rather than a smartphone app.
Conclusion
Game designers go to great lengths to ensure users have the most vivid gaming experience possible. Haptic technology merges virtual and physical reality, creating simulations through heat, vibration, and haptic touch. Vibrations when a car crashes or accelerates make gamers feel like they are physically in the driving seat, made even more realistic by a graspable steering wheel. Haptic technology enhances the memorability of devices for consumers, helping create a competitive advantage for companies in all industries. We can expect to see more and more examples of haptics in a range of industries as technology advances, benefiting medical patients and improving safety for airplane or vehicle passengers.
-
Aliens: Dark Descent - A Chilling Journey into Ridley Scott's Alien Universe
In space, no one can hear you scream. Embark on a harrowing adventure through Ridley Scott's frightening Alien universe in Aliens: Dark Descent. This real-time squad-based tactical action game puts you in command of a team of elite Colonial Marines tasked with halting a terrifying Alien outbreak on Moon Lethe. You'll lead your squad in pulse-pounding combat against a horrifying horde of Xenomorphs, rogue operatives, and nightmarish new creatures.
As you explore the treacherous landscapes, Aliens: Dark Descent challenges you to recruit and level up your Marines to ensure survival against all odds. Delve into the heart of darkness, deploy your team strategically, and guide your team to safety. But beware, as a marine's death is permanent and unforgiving.
Release date & platforms
Aliens Dark Descent arrives on June 20, 2023, and will launch on:
* PC
* PlayStation 4
* PS5
* Xbox One
* Xbox Series X/S
As one of the most beloved franchises in film history, we'll outline what is known about Aliens: Dark Descent.
Aliens: Dark Descent Plot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W_fIqBj3gc
In Aliens: Dark Descent, experience the spine-chilling authenticity of an Alien narrative as it unfolds through a cinematic campaign rife with sinister secrets, iconic Xenomorphs, and never-before-seen threats.
This original Alien story propels you into the year 2198, two decades after the events of Alien 3. Your goal: to quell a menacing Alien outbreak and repair your crippled USS Otago spacecraft. Assemble a squad of Colonial Marines and embark on a high-stakes mission at the remote Tantalus Base on the mysterious moon of Lethe.
You scour the wreckage of a spacecraft in search of an offline relay to reestablish communications. As commander, the clock is ticking as the mission's fate rests on
your shoulders. Spearhead your squad through the chaos, fight for survival, and fix the Otago. Can you stop the outbreak before it's too late?
Aliens: Dark Descent Gameplay
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUvMwrHIxwo
Unlike other Aliens franchise games, Aliens: Dark Descent is neither an FPS nor a horror game. You face off in a single-player real-time strategy (RTS) game from a top-down perspective, similar to XCOM. As the squad commander, this overhead view gives you extra vision to decide where to deploy forces and tactically direct their efforts.
In a departure from playing as a single Colonial Marine, you command an entire squad simultaneously, reminiscent of Lt. Gorman's role in Aliens. Picture yourself issuing orders from the safety of the APC, then watching as your marines execute actions based on their equipment, attributes, and positioning.
"I want you to lay down a suppressing fire with the incinerators and fall back by squads to the APC, over." - Lieutenant Gorman
Throughout the game, you must adapt your squad's tactics from mission to mission. Plus, manage their health, resources, and sanity to avoid the devastating consequences of permanent marine losses and mental breakdowns. This unique blend of strategic gameplay ensures that each mission remains engaging and challenging, keeping you on your toes as you navigate the iconic Alien universe.
1) Unique squad
You'll lead a squad of five colonial marines in battle against their foes. Command your soldiers in real-time combat against iconic Xenomorphs, including Facehuggers and Alien Queens.
Recruit your perfect team from five distinct starting character classes, each boasting unique:
● Skills
● Weapons
● Armor
● Abilities
Your foes will adapt to your tactics while hunting you. Develop your base to research new tech, customize your squad, and level them up to ensure success.
2) Permadeath
The gameplay is heightened by its permadeath system, instilling a sense of genuine horror and thrill as you navigate the treacherous environments infested with deadly Xenomorphs. Any squad member killed is lost forever, making managing your marines' health and resources vital. This unforgiving mechanic ensures that every decision raises the stakes and amplifies the tension.
As you command your squad, you must assess your strategy and determine whether an evacuation mid-mission could save your team from total annihilation. Dark Descent blends the franchise's signature horror with intense, strategic gameplay.
3) Stress meter mechanics
Aliens: Dark Descent introduces a sanity system that ingeniously captures the fear and tension inherent to the Alien franchise. As your marines confront the horrors of the Xenomorphs, stress levels rise, wreaking havoc on combat performance by causing:
* Panic
* Missed shots
* Irrational behavior
* Mission sabotage
This stress meter mechanic pays homage to the movies, where fear could break down even the most well-trained marines. To maintain control of your team, you'll need to carefully manage their stress levels with a variety of measures, such as:
* Health kits
* Upgrading and customizing your arsenal between missions
* Welding doors shut to create sanctuaries
* Reprimanding your squad
But be warned - resources in Dark Descent are scarce, and every action has consequences. Using tools to weld doors might leave you short on supplies later, health kits spent on stress reduction won't be available for healing, and reprimands are only a temporary fix.
As the game progresses, your marines' stress levels will inevitably climb again, challenging you to think strategically and adapt on the fly to keep your squad intact and focused on the mission at hand.
4) Persistent world
Aliens: Dark Descent immerses you in a dynamic, persistent world where every decision echoes throughout the game. Changes to the environment, like deploying motion trackers or welding doors shut, have lasting effects. Exercise caution: a welded door might stop Xenomorphs, but it could also block your escape later.
Exploration is crucial to discover shortcuts, gather more resources, and deploy motion trackers to monitor alien movements. Tactical creativity is critical, whether using an electrical saw to breach locked doors or sealing passageways for strategic retreats.
Venturing deeper into the facility presents risks and rewards. Spending resources and increasing stress levels may jeopardize your squad and alert the hive, but it could also uncover valuable resources. Move cautiously, keeping an eye on your squad's status and motion tracker updates.
Motion trackers play a vital role, with two types at your disposal:
* The iconic Alien tracker integrated into your UI
* A deployable version placed strategically on the map
These trackers offer invaluable situational awareness but beware—Xenomorphs will eventually locate and destroy deployable trackers, leaving you to face the fear of the unknown lurking around every corner.
5) Challenging missions and adaptive AI
Brace yourself for challenging, longer levels as Tindalos Interactive's adaptive AI pushes back against your playstyle, bypasses traps, infiltrates encampments, and even kidnaps soldiers. With mission durations ranging from 20 minutes to an hour, you're in for a thrilling and immersive experience.
Throughout the game, you'll confront iconic Xenomorph creatures, such as:
* Facehuggers: swift, agile parasites that latch onto their victims
* Warriors: fast and deadly, these Xenomorphs relentlessly pursue their prey
* Praetorians: heavily armored and powerful, they act as guards for the Alien Queen
* Alien Queens: the monstrous, intelligent leaders of the hive
In addition to these fearsome foes, you'll also encounter rogue human commandos from the insatiable Weyland-Yutani Corporation and a brand-new threat unique to this Alien storyline.
Survival is paramount—create safe zones, set up motion trackers, and brace for soldiers losing their sanity as you advance toward the game's climactic conclusion. Real-time combat can slow down to allow strategic planning and ambushes. Remember: death is permanent, and your enemies will adapt as they hunt you down.
Steel your nerves and drop into the gripping journey of Aliens: Dark Descent, a single-player, squad-based action game that plunges you headfirst into the eerie depths of the renowned Alien franchise. Prepare to adapt, strategize, and make life-or-death decisions as you forge your path to victory or defeat.
Experience this gripping journey and discover your next favorite game with Acer's Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, including EA Play. Enjoy one month free with any new Acer, Predator, or ConceptD PC purchase, and explore an ever-expanding library of games that cater to your tastes and keep you on the edge of your seat.
-
Why You Should Update to Windows 11
It's definitely time to upgrade to Windows 11. Since its October 2021 debut, Microsoft has been fine-tuning its operating system (OS) with new features and improvements. If you're still clinging to Windows 10, here's a reality check: Microsoft has halted adding any new OS features.
Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025—a rapidly approaching deadline. The release of version 22H2 marks the final act for Windows 10, leaving only bug fixes and security updates in its wake.
Should you upgrade to the newest Windows OS? Before diving in, remember Microsoft no longer sells new Windows 10 licenses. If you're considering a new computer or upgrade, Windows 11 is the new go-to choice.
Windows 11 vs. Windows 10: what's new and noteworthy
Windows 11 might not seem like a radical departure from Windows 10. Some are minor tweaks, like a new-look Start menu and Taskbar. Others are defining you
can run Android apps on Windows 11. Let's dive into the ten most notable Windows 11 changes:
1) Revamped visual design
Windows 11 ushers in a sleek, modern interface reminiscent of Android or Mac experiences. The OS uses Microsoft's Fluent Design language to boast a clean design with rounded corners and larger, vibrant icons. The intuitive interface is designed with touchscreens in mind and seamlessly adapts when you connect or disconnect displays. Plus, Windows apps now feature a gorgeous Dark Mode.
2) Refined Start Menu and Taskbar
The most striking visual change is the new Windows 11 Start button and task icons, now centered on the screen by default (though you can revert to the Windows 10 layout if preferred). The Start Menu is simplified with a search bar at the top, followed by two customizable sections:
* Pinned: Displays your pinned apps.
* Recommended: Highlights recently opened files and installed apps.
In the Taskbar, the search box is reduced to an icon. Cortana functions are removed, making way for Microsoft Teams, which has full Windows 11 integration. You can remove the icon if you don't use Teams though.
3) Enhanced virtual desktops
Windows 11 builds upon the virtual desktops introduced in Windows 10 so you can stay organized and maximize your productivity. You can easily toggle between multiple customizable desktops for:
* Personal
* Work
* Gaming
* Content creation
4) New window management tools
Snap Layouts helps you work better and improve productivity by sharing many app windows on a single screen. When working on specific tasks, you can get the most from your favorite apps. With many layout sizes to choose from, multitasking is a snap. You can also use the Taskbar's new Task View button to organize and switch between different Desktops.
5) Widgets: Your content, curated by you
Windows 11 introduces an innovative widgets feature, allowing you to quickly access auto-updating widgets and news stories from the left-hand side of your screen. This offers a convenient way to stay updated on what matters most without opening dedicated apps.
Top widgets include:
* Outlook Calendar
* Weather
* Traffic
* Sports
* To-Do app
* OneDrive Photos
* Stocks
You can customize your news feed by topics and sources. Easily find the apps you want and the shows you watch in the new Microsoft Store.
6) Seamless Android and Linux app integration
With Windows 11, you can run Linux, Android, and Windows apps side by side, making it the most open platform for creators.
Windows Subsystem for Android™️ (WSA) enables you to run Android applications from the Amazon Appstore with multitasking and full Taskbar integration. However, you're limited to the Amazon Appstore's selection of around 800,000 apps versus Google Play Store's 3.5 million offerings.
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows you to run Linux applications natively without needing a separate virtual machine. So you can run the free Photoshop-like software Gimp on Windows 11.
7) Improved security
Windows 11 takes security up a notch compared to Windows 10, making it a top choice for hybrid work. Here's a breakdown of its cutting-edge security features:
* Device encryption: Keep your data safe by encrypting it. Unauthorized users can't access your data without the proper decryption key.
* Secure Boot via UEFI (United Extensible Firmware Interface): Only authorized, digitally-signed firmware and operating systems can load during start-up. Say goodbye to unauthorized or malicious software taking over your PC.
* Virtualization-based security (VBS): VBS adds an extra layer of protection by isolating essential system components from the rest of the OS, shielding you from vulnerabilities and attacks.
* Phishing Protection: Microsoft Defender keeps you safe by warning you if you enter your work or school password on a malicious site in any Chromium browser, as detected by Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. It then advises you to change your password.
According to Microsoft, these security enhancements can slash malware infection by up to 60%, making Windows 11 a safer bet.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iss30fbMbkE
8) Enhanced performance
Windows 11 optimizes memory management and prioritizes CPU power for foreground apps, resulting in a snappier experience than Windows 10. Better memory management means Windows 11 PCs can wake up from sleep mode quicker. Additionally, Windows 11 is still in the early years of its product lifestyle. In the future, Microsoft may release new features and updates that significantly boost the performance of Windows 11.
9) Enhanced collaboration and remote work
Windows 11 offers advanced Microsoft Teams collaboration tools to boost your remote work experience:
* Adaptive Background Noise Suppression: Bid farewell to distracting noises during video calls, as this feature intelligently minimizes background disturbances.
* AI-Powered Eye Contact: AI-driven technology automatically adjusts where your eyes are looking to ensure you always are making eye contact with the camera.
* Dynamic Framing: No matter if you stand up or move around, automatic framing ensures you remain centered and in focus during video calls.
* Refined Background Blur: A subtler background blur offers a more natural and less intrusive effect than traditional video conferencing blurs.
Microsoft Teams also allows free voice, chats and video calls regardless of the device your colleagues are using.
10) Gaming experience, leveled up
For gamers, Windows 11 emerges as the definitive choice bringing Xbox Series X's technology to the PC with:
* Auto HDR: This feature upgrades SDR games to HDR visuals, enhancing the color depth and contrast for a more immersive experience.
* DirectStorage: A technology that reduces game load times to under a second by directly loading games into video memory, bypassing the CPU. It also boosts graphics performance by speeding up data transfer between storage devices and the GPU.
* Windowed game optimizations: Windows 11 uses a new presentation model for lower frame latency and variable refresh rate (VRR).
With performance bugs resolved, gamers are flocking to upgrade to Windows 11.
Why you should switch to Windows 11
Windows 11 is Microsoft's vision for the future of PC operating systems. In general, it's simpler, more streamlined, and more secure than Windows 10.
While Windows 10 still has a 70% market share, all new PCs now ship with Windows 11, and any options to buy a Windows 10 PC instead have largely vanished. If your PC has the right hardware, upgrading to Windows 11 from Windows 10 is free.
So, perhaps this is the most compelling reason to make the switch. The main potential roadblock is often fear of change. With Stardock, you can customize Windows 11 to use a Windows 10 start menu and taskbar.
How to install Windows 11
If you're eager to jump into Windows 11, you can upgrade for free if your computer meets the tech requirements. Here's how:
1) Check if your computer meets Windows 11 system requirements
Not all Windows 10 machines can run Windows 11, as Microsoft has stringent hardware requirements, including:
* Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 support
* Secure Boot enabled in the BIOS
To check if your device meets the criteria, run Microsoft's PC Microsoft Health Check app. The hardware requirements page offers workarounds for updating or changing your PC settings to meet the requirements.
2) Check for a Windows 11 update
In Windows 10:
* Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
* Click the Check for updates button.
* If Windows 11 appears, you can install it as an update.
3) Download Windows 11 with the Installation Assistant
If Windows 11 isn't showing up as an update, try the Windows 11 Installation Assistant:
* Visit Microsoft's Download Windows 11 page.
* Under the Windows 11 Installation Assistant heading, click the Download Now button.
* Run the downloaded.Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe file by double-clicking it.
* Click the Accept and Install button to agree to the licensing terms, and your Windows 10 PC will be upgraded to Windows 11.
* Restart your PC when prompted; remember that your computer may restart several times during installation.
In a nutshell, making the jump to Windows 11 has its perks. With a sleeker design, beefed-up multitasking, robust security, and performance boosts, it's a no-brainer for gamers and remote workers.
By embracing Windows 11, you stay ahead of the ever-evolving digital landscape. Compatibility varies, but the upgrade is free if your Windows 10 device checks all the boxes. So, why not take advantage of these advantages and upgrade to Windows 11? Upgrade your tech experience, and join the future of operating systems.
-
Acer @COMPUTEX 2023
Come visit Acer at the COMPUTEX computer expo, running Tuesday May 30 until June 2, in Taipei, Taiwan. “Together we create” is the message welcoming a long awaited return to normal at COMPUTEX this year, so don’t miss out. At COMPUTEX 2023, not only can you discover the latest from Acer and Predator, you can also experience our e-mobility products and explore the entire Acerpure line. This year, in addition to the Acer COMPUTEX Showcase at the Nangang Exhibition Center, we will also have a Downtown Showcase. The Downtown Showcase will have many activities, exclusive gifts (while supplies last), and eco-friendly workshops for you to explore, so come join us and see what's in store!
Innovation awaits at COMPUTEX 2023, and Acer has a truly buzzworthy lineup of new eco-friendly tech and gaming from Acer and Predator for you to check out. Come visit us at Booth No. M0820, 4F, in Hall1 of the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center from May 30 - June 01 09.30 - 17.30. If you want a preview of what we have on show this year, read on for some select highlights of the newest Acer products!
Swift Edge 16
Gain an edge with the new Acer Swift Edge 16, featuring a seamlessly thin and light design, with hardware that’s equipped for today’s AI demands and beyond. The Swift Edge 16 unites performance and portability, and exudes confidence as it flaunts an eye-catching design frame and color display capabilities that are sure to make heads turn.
Its ultra-thin and light magnesium alloy chassis measures a mere 12.95 mm (0.51 inches), weighs only 1.23 kg (2.71 lbs), and is finished off with a sleek olivine black coating. The Swift Edge 16 showcases a stunning 16-inch 3.2K OLED display with an upgraded refresh rate of 120 Hz and support for 100% DCI-P3 color gamut to provide true-to-life colors and images. The Windows 11 laptop also boasts compatibility with up to Wi-Fi 7[1], Microsoft Pluton, and a range of smart features so users can stay connected to fast wireless connections and keep private data secured.
Predator Triton 16
Silver hued, agile, and limitless, the Predator Triton 16 with DLSS 3 is a slim gaming laptop forged with a purpose: to handle all your multitasking woes, dish out extreme performance, and empower your creativity at every turn. The latest addition to Acer’s power-packed gaming line, Predator Triton 16 for gaming and work is equipped with the latest 13th Gen Intel® Core™ processors, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU, and up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, along with an abundance of features that would excite any type of gamer.
Cooling perfected so you can push performance to the max! To ensure the vital components are kept cool throughout gaming sessions, the laptop’s advanced thermal solutions combine dual 5th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fans, Vortex Flow optimization, and liquid metal thermal grease on the CPU, all housed within a thin metal chassis design.
Acer Connect Vero W6m Eco-Friendly Wi-Fi 6E Mesh Router
Acer’s latest addition to the growing Vero line of eco-conscious products, Acer Connect Vero W6m, features 30% PCR plastic casing and a dedicated Eco mode, combining high performance and energy efficiency. With peak speeds of up to 7.8 Gbps and tri-band AXE7800 capability, you can count on Acer Connect Vero W6m to provide swift and secure connections with vast network coverage in homes and offices.
Designed with the environment in mind, Acer’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions is reflected in every aspect of the device, from its chassis to energy-efficient features. It also utilizes 100% recyclable paper in its packaging. The Wi-Fi 6E router also prioritizes data protection and security as it is the first router to pass EU EN 303 645 (RED) Cyber Security Standards.
SpatialLabs™ Stereoscopic 3D Solutions
Expanding support for SpatialLabs™ developers, Acer unveils a suite of tools enabling stereoscopic 3D experiences. These developer tools provide more avenues to develop glasses-free, stereoscopic 3D experiences on Acer SpatialLabs Pro devices. With its new Unity plug-in support, developers from various industries and practices can utilize SpatialLabs Pro devices when creating stereo 3D content and applications.
Acer’s OpenXR runtime for SpatialLabs has been certified, enabling developers to use OpenXR protocols when building stereo 3D content and applications on SpatialLabs’ commercial displays. The Acer SteamVR Bridge helps unlock the potential of stereo 3D for VR application developers to deliver enhanced immersive experiences when using SpatialLabs Pro devices.
Impactful Products
Upgrade your commute with the Acer ebii, an Ai assisted urban e-bike, then convert kinetic energy into reusable electricity while you work with Acer eKinekt BD3. Take a deep breath and relax, knowing that you protect your air with Acerpure home appliances. Come to COMPUTEX 2023 to see how these and many more Acer products are making a difference at home and out and about.
Visit us today
In addition to these exciting new releases from Acer, don’t miss the COMPUTEX Keynote by Acer Chairman and CEO Jason Chen: June 1, 9am in Room 701, 7H, Hall 2, Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center. Take this opportunity to be one of the first people to discover new additions to the Acer Vero eco-friendly range, as well as Acer Swift OLED Laptops, and, of course, the latest gaming laptops from Predator. See you at COMPUTEX 2023!
How to get there: Map
Events not to miss:
1. Media Event
May 30, 18:00-20:00
Acer Downtown Showcase.
Xiangti Avenue Plaza (Shin Kong Mitsukoshi - Taipei Xinyi Place)
2. COMPUTEX Keynote Jason Chen|Acer Chairman & CEO
June 1 09:00
Room 701, 7H, Hall 2,
Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center
Where and when:
COMPUTEX Showcase
Booth No. M0820, 4F, Hall 1
Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center
May 30 - June 02, 09:30 am - 17:30 pm
Downtown Showcase (open to the public)
Xiangti Avenue Plaza (Shin Kong Mitsukoshi - Taipei Xinyi Place)
May 30, 13:00 - 21:30 pm
May 31- June 04, 11:00 am - 21:30 pm
COMPUTEX Showcase
MRT
* Take BR line and get off at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall Center Station (BR24)
* Take BL line and get off at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall Center Station (BL23)
Railway
* Please get off the train at Nangang Station (terminal station), then take the MRT BL line to Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall Station (BL23)
Downtown Showcase
MRT
* Take the Bannan line to "Taipei City Hall" station and use Exits 3.
* Take the Tamsui-Xinyi line of the MRT to "Taipei 101 / Taipei World Trade Center", use Exit 4.
-
Story Of Seasons: A Wonderful Life
Are you longing for a wonderful life? Do you dream of leaving the city behind, becoming a farmer, tilling the soil, raising crops and livestock, and eventually raising a family? Do you hope to own a pitchfork? Well, property prices in rural Japan are very reasonable these days, but if you’re not quite ready to make the move, then perhaps try the upcoming release from Marvelous Inc., Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life. This role-playing, farming simulation game will let you create the best memories of friendship, family, and farm, all from the comfort of your own home, without getting your hands dirty.
Background
First, make a note in your diary for June 27th, 2023, for this is the Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life release date. Next, let us clear up any confusion surrounding the name of this game franchise. Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life is a remake of Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life, originally released in 2004 on GameCube. The original A Wonderful Life is considered a classic of the farm sim genre, and is still many Harvest Moon fans’ favorite game from the series. Still confused? Read on to discover more about the history and development of the game.
Harvest Moon, widely considered the pioneer of the farming simulator genre, was first produced by Yasuhiro Wada and developed by Victor Interactive Software (now Marvelous Inc.). Upon its first release in 1996, games in the series were called Harvest Moon until 2014 when Marvelous Inc. decided to rename and localize the series via their US subsidiary XSEED Games, releasing Story of Seasons in 2015. Subsequent releases followed the Story of Seasons moniker. Headquartered in Tokyo, the Japanese anime and game producer Marvelous Inc. is famous for No More Heroes, Senran Kagura, and of course, Story of Seasons.
Story and gameplay
The many incarnations of Story of Seasons from the Harvest Moon years until today all follow a similar storyline. The basic outline is that you are a young man or woman tasked with taking over a deserted farm with nothing but an empty field, a cow, and a faithful dog to assist you. From these humble beginnings, the player must cultivate and harvest crops, raise livestock, fish, mine, and forage to earn money to invest into growing the farm. Alongside these tasks to bring home the bacon, the player also has to make friends in the town, find a partner, and raise a family. In many Story of Seasons games, the player can participate in festivals. Social festivals include Christmas, and competitions such as livestock festivals where prizes can be won to increase the value of livestock.
Over the years, different Story of Seasons releases have stood out to players around the world. In Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town (first released in 2003-4, remade in 3D in 2020-21) the social aspects in the game are emphasized: there are many pals to be made in the town, and the player even has a bevy of six bachelorettes to court. Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town, released in 2021, features adventures that take the player off the beaten track. By finding Earth Sprites, you can explore new, mysterious places, including islands in the sky, the inside of a volcano, and gardens with unchanging seasons.
What’s new in Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life
This year, the player will be schooled in the ways of farming by the protagonist’s father’s friend. If you have played this series before, A Wonderful Life will be a trip down memory lane, as you revisit the community of Forgotten Valley, with updated character designs and visuals. The quaint farming features of the previous games have also been modernized, but not industrialized, adding to the joy of raising animals, and growing crops. The developer XSEED also promises all new events in the valley, as well as the chance to befriend the rural townsfolk, and assist your fellow neighbors with various tasks.
Furthermore, the character choices in this game are in line with modern times. If you wish to identify as a farmer, a farmerette or a non-binary farmer, Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life lets you be you. With the three gender choices above, all eligible marriage candidates are available for romance no matter your gender. Marvelous Inc. has truly modernized identity and romance choices in the sim farming community for 2023. Dropping all of the restrictions on marriage present in previous Wonderful Life editions, players now have a total of eight different characters to potentially marry and procreate with.
After you have found your partner, get to work on raising the child and guide them into adulthood. A new feature for 2023 is raising the child while growing old as the protagonist. The choices you make in the game will affect the character of your offspring: will they stay on the farm, or head off to find greener pastures? Other exciting additions to Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life include new varieties of crops to grow, many more recipes to cook, enhanced festivals, and the chance to take pictures of your Wonderful Life family using the new camera feature.
There is so much to explore in this charming Wonderful Life, with something for everyone, from cute animals to fun seasonal events, and rural romance. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the franchise, or a first-time player, don’t miss out on the hottest farm simulator of the summer!
We hope that you have enjoyed this article and wonder, is the farm sim life calling out to you? Do you want to find out more about the fantasy world of the role-playing genre? If so, take a minute to read our discussion, here. Also, be sure to check out Xbox Game Pass for access to all of your favorite games. If you want to have a crack at farming in Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life, then remember, the release date is June 27th.
-
A Beginner's Guide to Computer Language: C/C++
Despite being two of the oldest programming languages, C and C++ are still used in system programming, embedded systems, and real-time apps due to their high performance and low-level control. This article will provide a simple introduction to these two programming languages, along with some basic codes and information on where to learn more.
What is the C programming language?
Developed in the early 1970s by Dennis Ritchie at Bell Labs, C began its journey by helping to develop the Unix operating system. Today, the C language is a general-purpose and low-level programming language that offers users fine-grained control over hardware and memory, making it popular for system-level programming. A key feature of the C language is that it is structured and modular. This allows users to divide larger programs into smaller, more manageable pieces. It provides users with several basic data types, such as integers, floats, and characters, and also allows users to define their own data types by using structures and unions.
Programs written in C are converted into machine code (i.e., compiled) by a compiler before being executed. Although this makes for fast and efficient programs, it also means that separate versions of C programs must be precompiled for each platform or operating system before being distributed to users. The C programming language profoundly affected the field of computing and influenced many other languages, including C++, Java, Python, and Ruby. With simplicity, power, and portability, C remains popular for developing operating systems (OS), device drivers, and more.
What is the C++ programming language?
C++ is a general-purpose programming language developed as an extension to the C language in the early 1980s by Bjarne Stroustrup at Bell Labs. Unlike C, C++ is an object-driven language, meaning it combines higher-level features of an object-oriented programming language with the low-level control and efficiency of C. C++ can be used with various programming styles, whether as an object-oriented programming language or with a procedural, generic, or functional approach, meaning it is versatile and usable for a range of applications. Like C, it also provides several basic data types, including integers, floats, and characters, and allows users to define custom data types by using classes.
Just like C, C++ is a compiled language, meaning programs must be translated to machine code by a compiler before being executed. And again, just like C, this makes C++ programs fast and efficient but means they must be precompiled for specific platforms and operating systems.
Thanks to its speed, flexibility, and power, C++ is one of the world’s most popular programming languages and is used to develop operating systems, device drivers, video games, scientific simulations, financial applications, and more. Another benefit of C++ is its compatibility with other programming languages. C++ can be made to work with Python, Java, and Ruby by using language bindings or wrappers provided by certain libraries and frameworks.
C vs C++
What is the difference between C++ and C? The following are some of the key differences between these two languages:
* Object-oriented programming: C++ integrates object-oriented programming features, while C follows a procedural approach.
* Memory management: C++ offers a more sophisticated approach to memory management, including constructors and destructors that are automatically called when objects are created or destroyed. C relies on manual memory management with functions like malloc() and free().
* Containers: The C++ Standard Library includes a richer set of container classes than C, including vectors, lists, sets, maps, and more.
* Exception handling: The C++ Standard Library includes support for exceptions, whereas the C Standard Library does not.
* I/O Streams: The C++ Standard Library includes I/O stream classes to handle input and output, while the C Standard Library uses a simple file-based I/O approach.
* Performance: Generally, C is faster than C++ because it lacks some of the overhead from features like virtual functions and exception handling.
* Compatibility: C can be used in C++ programs, but the opposite is not always true, because C++ adds additional features and syntax that are not in C.
What is C++ used for?
C++ can create almost any kind of program. Here are some applications that commonly use the C++ programming language:
* Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, and Linux are all programmed in C++.
* Browsers: The rendering engines of various web browsers are programmed in C++ primarily because of the high speed of C++.
* Libraries: Tensorflow, one of the most widely used machine learning libraries, uses C++ as its backend primarily because of the high performance of C++.
* Graphics: All graphics applications require fast rendering, just like web browsers do. Programs that perform computer vision processes and high-end digital image processing all use C++ as their backend. Popular games that are heavy on graphics also use C++ as their primary language.
* Banking applications: Banking applications, which process millions of transactions each day, require high-performance programming languages.
* Cloud/distributed systems: Large organizations rely on C++ for in-house and cloud storage systems. C++ connects well with hardware and is compatible with a lot of machines.
* Databases: MySQL, MongoDB, Redis, Oracle, and several other databases have components written in C++. The high performance and low-level memory management control offered by C++ make it ideal for databases.
* Embedded systems: Medical machines, smartwatches, and IoT devices use C++ because it is close to the hardware level.
* Compilers: The compilers of various programming languages use C and C++ because they are low-level languages. (C++ has both low-level and high-level functionality.)
Examples of C++ syntax and code
The following are some examples of C++ syntax:
* #include <iostream>: This is the preprocessor directive to include a header file (in this case the iostream header file).
* int main(): This marks the first function where the program execution begins.
* { }: These are common to almost all programming languages and indicate the beginning and end of a function or a method.
* //comment: The text or information after the (//) command is not a part of the execution program. It is used before a comment the programmer writes to explain the code.
The following is an example of C++ code. This code prints a name as output:
#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
// Generic comment: This code prompts the user to enter a name as input and then outputs the entered name.
int main()
{
string name;
cout << "Enter the name: ";
cin >> name;
cout << "Entered name is: " <<
name;
return 0;
}
C++ Environment Setup
To start coding a program in C++ language on your computer, you will need to have the following:
* Text editor: Examples of a few text editors are Windows Notepad++, VS Code, Linux Vim, and Atom. Files created with the text editor are called source files, and for C++, they are typically given the extension .cpp
* C++ compiler: The code written in the text editor (source code) is not machine-readable and needs to be compiled into a final executable program (machine code). The most frequently used and free available compiler is the GNU C/C++ compiler. If you use VS Code, you do not need to download a compiler separately. Visual Studio comes with Microsoft's Visual C++ compiler.
Where can you learn C++?
If you are interested in learning C or C++, check out the following few online coding courses to get started:
edX: C Programming: Getting Started
This free course teaches the principles of C programming. Students just getting started with C will learn how to write their first programs, make simple computations, print results to the screen, store values in variables, and repeat instructions using loops. Beginners, even those without any programming experience, will be able to immediately start coding in C with the help of simple coding tools that can be accessed through the web browser.
Coursera: Coding for Everyone: C and C++ Specialization
This free course teaches students how to Code in both C and in C++. Students will gain a deep understanding of computer programming by learning to code, debug, and solve complex problems.
Udemy: Beginning C++ Programming—From Beginner to Beyond
This is one of the best paid courses for learning C++, object-oriented programming, and various other skills needed for gaming, system, and application development. Created by Tim Buchalka’s Learn Programming Academy and Frank J. Mitropoulos, the course is well-structured and teaches modern C++ features, such as lambda, threading, and templates. This course is worth the investment at $24.99, but beginners should start with one of the others, first, to get a head start before diving into this one.
-
Lies of P: A Soulslike Game Inspired by the Tales of Pinocchio
A new action role-playing game called Lies of P, inspired by the tale of Pinocchio and resembling souls like games such as Bloodborne, is due to be released in August 2023. The game puts a dark twist on the classic fairy tale and features a unique system that takes advantage of the character’s lies. Who would have thought that a game would be made that is based on the story of Pinocchio? Read on to learn all about this intriguing new title.
Lies of P
Lies of P tells the story of Pinocchio as never seen before. You play as the iconic marionette in search of your maker Geppetto in a fictional French city inspired by the historic Belle Époque era—a time of abundant affluence in France. The once flourishing city, Krat, has long since fallen. In bygone years, the denizens of Krat had invented mechanoids, thinking they could be used as a replacement for human labor, but at some point, the mechanoids had rebelled against their makers and turned the city into what is now a gritty and violent hellscape.
As Pinocchio, you wind your way through the streets of the ruined city, crafting weapons from various materials you discover along the way and interacting with the remaining few who are managing to survive there.
“Inspired by the familiar story of Pinocchio, Lies of P is an action souls-like game set in a dark Belle Époque world. Guide Pinocchio on his unrelenting journey to become human,” reads the game’s Steam page. “Play as Pinocchio, a puppet mechanoid, and fight through everything in your path to find this mystery person,” the Steam page continues. “But don’t expect any help along the way and don’t make the mistake of trusting anyone.”
Although based on a well-known tale and featuring several familiar Pinocchio characters, such as Geppetto, Pinnochio’s creator and father figure, and Gemini Cricket, Pinocchio’s guiding conscience, Lies of P promises intriguing twists through a dark reimagining of the story.
Lies of P is being developed by Round 8 Studio, which previously created the MMORPG Blessed Unleashed. Lies of P will be the developer’s first single-player title. Round 8 Studio is a subsidiary of Neowiz, a video game publisher in South Korea.
Lies of P gameplay and mechanics
Lies of P features profound narrative choices and deeply customizable character progression to round out its RPG features. Here are a few of the features you can expect:
Lying quests
In the popular tale, Pinocchio dreams of becoming human and is a compulsive liar. To achieve his dream, he is told he must first change his lying nature and demonstrate genuine honesty. By contrast, Lies of P features a mechanic where Pinocchio will accumulate Humanity points by lying; these points will affect Pinocchio’s journey and how his story ends. When not in combat, Pinocchio can speak with faceless citizens locked behind their doors and windows. The NPCs question Pinocchio and send him on quests depending on his answers. During conversations, Pinocchio only has a few seconds to pick his answer, and one (or both?) of his choices is seemingly a lie. As of yet, how his conversation choices manifest is still unclear, but the game’s Steam page states these lying quests “play out depending on how you lie” and factor into which of the multiple endings you experience.
The main effect on gameplay is that the more lies Pinocchio tells, the more human he becomes, with all the advantages and disadvantages being human entails.
Legion arms
Pinocchio appears humanoid in the game, but he is a doll, and his body can be modified for different gameplay effects. A swappable extremity called a legion arm exists in the place of Pinocchio’s left arm. This can be used to equip Pinocchio with various weapons, including a grappling hook, a flamethrower, and even an electricity weapon. The legion arms system should help players dial in their strategies and play styles beyond what would be possible with standard equipment.
Pinocchio defaults to wearing the Iron Fist, a hardened extremity capable of strong punches, but at least nine augmentations offer a bevy of additional abilities. For example, the Puppet String is a Hookshot-like gadget that Pinocchio can fire toward enemies to reel them in or vice versa. Once upgraded, the Puppet String possesses an ability called Falling Chase, which is a potent acrobatic attack that launches Pinocchio into the air before he comes crashing down. Other legion arms include:
* The Fulminis, which unleashes a charge of electricity.
* The Flamberge, which spews a violent cone of flame from its barrel.
* The Falcon Eyes, a hand cannon that deals heavy damage.
Heavy weapons have extensive wind-up animations that leave Pinocchio vulnerable to quick strikes but feel incredible when they contact an enemy. Light, thin-bladed weapons unleash a flurry of strikes and can be combined with legion arms to inflict copious damage. Dodging and parrying are essential to survival, with the latter opening up opponents to visceral strikes with precise timing.
Overall gameplay
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9skA157_1s
Pinocchio can equip two weapons at a time that alter things like attack speed and skills. The official Twitter boasts of 30 different weapons and 100 different “combinations,” and not all of these differences will be mechanical.
Further customization can be found in the P-Organ, where players spend Quartz (an upgrade material) to upgrade abilities and activate various skills. Pinocchio can also be customized for noncombat actions, such as breaking down a door. Accessing the customization menus pauses the game, so players can take as much time as necessary when customizing Pinocchio.
Most aspects of gameplay in Lies of P, such as dodging, parrying, and countering enemies, are similar to what you would expect of a souls-like title. However, player and enemy movement in general reflect the mechanical nature of the world—enemies approach with almost doll-like attacks, making it difficult to predict their movements.
Lies of P graphics and design
Lies of P has been built from the ground up using Unreal Engine 4. Although the aesthetics seem to take inspiration from Dark Souls, the game’s steampunk setting in the fallen city of Krat is reminiscent of the plague-ridden Dunwall of Dishonored.
Enemies are almost all mechanical, so they blend into the environment and wait for you to get close before making their move. Lies of P has many different types of enemies, so as soon as you get comfortable with one enemy type, a new one will suddenly appear and force you to adapt.
Souls-like titles tend to be extremely challenging, and a distinctive aspect of this genre is that games typically lack settings for adjusting the overall difficulty level. This often turns players away from progressing and discovering new aspects of the game. With Lies of P, Round 8 Studio appears not to be concerned about how hard the game is. The game looks to be very difficult and one that puts players’ skills to the test during each and every encounter within the gothic world.
Lies of P release date
Lies of P is coming to PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in August 2023. Lies of P will be on Xbox Game Pass as a Day One launch title. Be sure to check out this and other fantasy RPGs and see why Acer is an official sponsor of Game Pass.
estrellarobert
Member Posts: 4
FAQ & Answers
Do you get an error message if you try to boot from the hard drive only with no other drives plugged in? What was the factory-installed operating system?
Jack E/NJ
"Loading the first NTFS partition on this device ... done
"looking for NTFS EFI loader ..... dine
Launching NTFS EFI loader 'EFI\Boot\bootia32.efi.....
Load failure: [14] Not found
May I ask also is that posible to reply hard drive? or posible to take the hard drive and install to other laptop and install win10 OS. may thats the best solution and where I can fund the harddrive in my unit.
Thabks again
What was the factory-installed operating system when you got the machine?
Jack E/NJ
OK. ¿Cuál era el sistema operativo original? ¿Windows 8.1?
Jack E/NJ
WHen I got that machine it windows 10 enterprise
¿Ha tratado de desactivar la opción de arranque seguro en la bios?
Jack E/NJ
Think he is in Ethiopia (ET) so Spanish may not help.
Has Windows Enterprise which may explain the Windows to Go (usually on a removable drive). What happens if you select that at the F12 boot ?
ps you do not just press F2 or alt-F10 once, you need to hold them down then press the power button - do not release until something happens.
Hello everyone!!!, I have your solution for "Secure Boot Fail". Go into firmware/bios settings. Usually seen when prompted to hit enter or esc. Hit esc, you will enter the settings menu. There are multiple tabs you will notice. Navigate to the appropriate tab because the option to disable Secure Boot becomes available when you set your supervisor/master password. Hope that helped!!! It did for me. I was installing Windows 8 along side my Windows 10 (dual boot) and ran into this. I created a password and ta da I could then disable secure boot and now my operating system loads beautifully!!! Cheers!!!
viper1011>>>I created a password and ta da I could then disable secure boot and now my operating system loads beautifully!!! >>>
Congrats. Now that you've got it all up and running, and can put this all behind you, what if you need to get back into the BIOS menu someday but have forgotten the password? 8^) Jack E/NJ
go to BIOS and change BIOS setting
1 secure boot (en..) to de.
f10 enter