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Slitterhead: A New Era of Action-Adventure Games from Bokeh Game Studio
Bokeh Game Studio's upcoming single-player title, Slitterhead, is set to revolutionize the action-adventure genre. Combining a compelling storyline, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visual design, Slitterhead builds upon the legacy of Keiichiro Toyama, the creator behind horror classics like Silent Hill. Adding to the game's immersive horror atmosphere is the haunting music of Akira Yamaoka, also renowned for his work on the Silent Hill video game series.
The Storyline: A Dark Urban Fantasy
Set in the fictional city of Kowlong during the early 1990s, Slitterhead plunges players into a world where parasitic creatures wreak havoc on humanity. Players assume the role of Hyoki, who is described as "an entity devoid of memory and physical form." He navigates the chaotic city's neon-lit streets with one goal in mind: to destroy Slitterheads, who are disguising themselves as normal people. Behind their human appearance and behavior, however, Slitterheads are grotesque monsters. According to Toyama, Slitterheads were inspired by several manga series and Chinese mythical creatures.
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics and Thrilling Action
Slitterhead features dynamic action scenes, utilizing motion capture to enhance realism. Players face a variety of Slitterheads in fast-paced, strategic battles. The motion capture technology ensures fluid animations and lifelike movements, creating an immersive experience that keeps players engaged and challenged.
Central to the Slitterhead gameplay is the possession system, which allows players (as Hyoki) to enter and take control of various characters—including animals—within the game. By quickly changing hosts, he can move through the city at high speeds. This ability also allows him to infiltrate secure locations and bypass obstacles.
When in battle, Hyoki can transform the blood of the person he is occupying into weapons like claws, swords, and firearms. If he becomes critically injured, he can go on fighting as long as he is able to move into a fresh host.
When Hyoki possesses certain humans, known as Rarities, he can deliver more damaging attacks and activate special abilities to vanquish Slitterheads. Some of these Rarities are:
* Doni: A high school student whose skills include the omnipotent Fatal Lance and the Revenge Guard shockwave.
* Tri: An immigrant housekeeper who can reduce enemy movement with Crimson Chains and stun foes with her Bloody Knuckles skill.
* Edo: A former showbiz personality turned street dweller, Edo automatically repels enemy attacks with his Deflect All skill and massively enhances attack power with Burning Edge.
* Alex: When not at his day job as a surgeon, Alex fights Slitterheads using skills such as Bloody Blast and Time Bomb.
* Julee: The first Rarity, Julee wields blood claws. Her powers include Revive All, as well as Sonic Claws that generate shockwaves, and Blood Ripper, which slows down enemies.
Players can also progress through the game by choosing missions and selecting Rarities as companions for each task. These missions vary from combat challenges to stealth investigations, allowing for diverse gameplay.
During intermissions, players can upgrade their Rarities' abilities or change their costumes. Interactions with Rarities are crucial, as conversations with them can help unlock new missions.
Slitterhead Platforms
The Slitterhead game release date is on November 8, 2024, and it will be available on PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games. Besides the standard edition, there will be physical and digital deluxe editions. It's worth noting that the physical edition is available only for PS5.
Additionally, there will be a special Slitterhead Day 1 edition, which includes several perks. Aside from the PS5 physical version of the game, the package features an artbook with commentary by director Keiichiro Toyama and the original game soundtrack on compact disc, plus stickers and a special Slitterhead box.
For PC players, the Nitro 17 Gaming Laptop is an excellent option for playing Slitterhead since it exceeds the game's recommended system requirements with its powerful Intel Core i7-14650HX hexadeca-core processor, 16 GB of RAM, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics processing unit. Console and PC desktop players might want to consider using a display like the 31.5" Predator X32 X Gaming Monitor. In addition to its ultra high-definition OLED curved screen, it features AMD FreeSync Premium, which ensures tear-free, stutter-free gaming.
With the Slitterhead release date right around the corner, the game has garnered significant attention as Bokeh Game Studio's debut title. The trailers of this action-adventure game showcase supernatural elements and body horror reminiscent of Keiichiro Toyama's earlier works, suggesting he's maintaining his reputation for crafting atmospheric, psychologically driven horror experiences that push creative boundaries.
https://youtu.be/2mAkn64FQDU?si=GD44aumcsZLYrJ7y
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About Lalaine Capucion: Lalaine has been working as a freelance writer and editor for more than 12 years, focusing on lifestyle, travel, and wellness. When she isn’t writing, she's most likely curled up with a good book or trying out a new recipe in the kitchen. She lives in Metro Manila, Philippines.
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Top Ten Honkai: Star Rail Characters for Version 2.6
Released on October 23, 2024, Honkai: Star Rail's version 2.6 update is packed with exciting content that pushes the boundaries of exploration and strategy in the game. Headlining this update is Rappa, an eye-catching new 5-star character from the Imaginary element and member of the Erudition Path. Rappa’s stylish, colorful attacks are perfectly suited for exploiting enemy weaknesses, making her a powerful addition for players. She’s featured in the Eyes of a Ninja banner, where she chases down the villain Evil Ninja Osaru across the edges of the cosmos, joined by the returning Dan Heng Imbibitor Lunae. This phase of the update offers players the chance to acquire Rappa and several Quantum and Imaginary 4-star units, while Phase 2 will introduce Aventurine and Acheron along with more familiar characters like March 7th and Sampo.
Adding to the exploration element, players can journey to a new location, Penacony Paperfold University College, a prestigious institution found within the Moment of Sol region. This area is filled with captivating NPCs, hidden treasures, and the mysterious mechanized monkeys involved in the latest Trailblaze mission, Banana Outrage: Battles Without Ninja and Humanity. Here, players can also meet returning characters like March 7th and Dan Heng, and encounter Mr. Reca, the leading examiner at the college. Complementing these updates are two new relic sets—Sacerdos’ Relived Ordeal and Scholar Lost In Erudition—which enhance critical stats like CRIT Rate and Speed, adding strategic options for high-stakes battles.
The 2.6 update also brings the third Simulated Universe DLC, Unknowable Domain, where players can collect and customize Scepters with Components to unlock powerful synergies for the final boss encounter. Events like Sound Hunt Ninjutsu Inscription, Mr. Cold Feet’s Pop-Up Shop, and Planet Fissure offer limited-time rewards, while Garden of Plenty and Shadow of the Ranger enable players to obtain boosted materials and experience. With so much to explore, Honkai: Star Rail 2.6 enriches both gameplay depth and character development opportunities. Below, we’ve rounded up the top ten characters for this patch who excel at taking on its new challenges and maximizing the update’s strategic potential.
Top Ten Honkai: Star Rail Characters for Version 2.6
1. Kafka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEUffI4nAIM
Kafka is a powerhouse in the 2.6 update, known for her strong debuffs and damage-over-time effects. Her Shock debuff deals continuous Lightning damage, and Kafka’s abilities allow her to spread this effect across multiple enemies, especially when paired with allies who have multi-hit skills. This compounding damage-over-time is extremely useful in prolonged battles, particularly against bosses with high health who require sustained damage to bring down. Kafka thrives when teamed with characters who can trigger her Shock with additional attacks, allowing her debuffs to escalate damage quickly and efficiently. Ideal builds for Kafka focus on increasing her Lightning DMG and Effect Hit Rate, ensuring her debuffs land consistently.
2. Luocha
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MDsyvr8SMY
Luocha is a top-tier healer and debuff cleanser, making him indispensable in 2.6’s high-damage environments. His healing skill automatically activates when allies’ HP drops, making him an efficient reactive healer who doesn’t drain SP. Luocha’s ability to cleanse debuffs adds a layer of defense against enemy effects that might slow down or weaken teammates, which is crucial in boss battles with constant debuff applications. His presence allows DPS characters to operate at full strength without worry. For optimal builds, prioritize HP% and Outgoing Healing Boost relics, giving Luocha the resilience and healing boost needed to support his allies in tough encounters.
3. Silver Wolf
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NYW1AzNLi0
Silver Wolf is the ultimate debuffer, specializing in adjusting enemy weaknesses to align with her team’s strengths. Her unique skill allows her to apply a random weakness to enemies, based on the main elements of her allies, which is critical in 2.6’s weakness-oriented content. By debuffing enemies and lowering their resistance to key elements, she enables her teammates to maximize their damage output, which is especially useful with single-element DPS characters. Silver Wolf pairs well with high-damage characters like Seele, who can take full advantage of weaknesses she creates. Ideal builds for Silver Wolf focus on Effect Hit Rate, Quantum DMG, and Break Effect to keep her debuffs consistent and potent.
4. Seele
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXVQmHxAnAE
Seele is a single-target DPS specialist who can devastate enemies in a single turn. Her skill grants her an extra turn upon defeating an enemy, allowing her to chain attacks and eliminate multiple enemies quickly or focus down a single high-health boss. This makes her exceptionally valuable in 2.6, where efficient single-target damage is essential to breaking through bosses with high resistances. Seele shines in teams that can further enhance her speed and damage, ensuring she can act frequently and exploit enemy weaknesses. Critical Rate, Critical DMG, and Quantum DMG relics maximize her damage, making her a dominant force against key targets.
5. Blade
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQeTZ4_77PA
Blade is a self-sustained DPS character who converts his HP into powerful attacks, making him less reliant on support from healers. His ability to deal high damage over time while maintaining his health allows him to serve as both a secondary DPS and a tanky presence on the team. Blade is particularly effective in long fights where he can steadily wear down opponents, as his skills don’t require heavy SP use. In 2.6’s endurance-focused stages, Blade’s durability and consistent damage output make him a reliable asset. His best builds focus on HP%, Wind DMG, and Damage Reduction, allowing him to endure enemy attacks and deal substantial damage.
6. Bronya
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35z1UZ7tuqE
Bronya is a versatile support character, best known for her buffs and turn-manipulation abilities. Her skills boost allies’ attack power and can even advance their turns, giving key DPS characters extra opportunities to strike. This turn manipulation is crucial in 2.6, especially in battles where keeping up with boss attacks is essential. Bronya’s ultimate also increases team damage output, providing a significant boost to characters like Seele or Jing Yuan who thrive with higher attack rates. Critical Rate, ATK%, and SPD relics enhance her utility, making her an essential choice for teams needing consistent DPS boosts and fast-paced combat.
7. Jing Yuan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyCOxxBkPTI
Jing Yuan brings excellent AoE DPS to the table, thanks to his summoned Lightning Lord, which performs multiple hits against all enemies. This ability makes Jing Yuan invaluable in stages with multiple foes or boss fights where summons are involved, as his AoE damage can quickly clear the battlefield. In 2.6, his multi-target skills provide consistent damage output that helps weaken groups of enemies, setting up kills for his allies. Ideal builds for Jing Yuan include Lightning DMG and Crit relics, enhancing his burst damage and enabling his Lightning Lord to deal heavy hits consistently.
8. Sushang
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueLggSAYwbo
Sushang is a burst DPS character specializing in rapid, single-target attacks. Her abilities allow her to perform follow-up attacks, which increases her damage output against high-priority targets, like bosses. Sushang is perfect for the 2.6 update’s boss fights, where single-target focus and high burst damage are key to wearing down powerful enemies. Her fast and relentless attack style keeps up the pressure on single foes, helping break their weaknesses quickly. For Sushang, Physical DMG, ATK%, and SPD relics optimize her burst potential, allowing her to repeatedly strike and capitalize on enemies’ vulnerabilities.
9. Clara
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NycY_n-0M8M
Clara is a tanky counter-attacker who shines in situations where the enemy frequently targets her. When hit, Clara retaliates with powerful counterattacks, allowing her to return damage while absorbing hits that would otherwise target her allies. Her durability makes her a strong defensive option for prolonged encounters in 2.6, particularly against enemies with heavy-hitting single attacks. She’s best suited for fights where the enemy AI frequently targets her, enabling her to use her counterattacks for steady DPS. Ideal builds for Clara emphasize DEF%, Physical DMG, and HP%, ensuring she can absorb and return damage effectively.
10. Yanqing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TY_i3n-7jY
Yanqing is a high-crit DPS who relies on critical hits to deal impressive burst damage. His kit enhances his critical rate and damage, making him one of the best single-target DPS options in the game. Yanqing excels in 2.6, where quickly breaking down bosses is essential. His synergy with buffers like Bronya allows him to consistently land critical hits, maximizing his damage output in each turn. Builds for Yanqing should focus on Critical Rate, Critical DMG, and Ice DMG relics to make him a consistent threat on the battlefield.
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Acer’s Nitro KG2 Monitors: Smooth, Responsive Gaming Within Your Budget
For gamers balancing the performance and the price tag of their hardware, Acer’s Nitro range of gaming monitors presents strong contenders. Models like the Nitro KG2 offer exceptional value with premium features such as high refresh rates and AMD FreeSync support. Today, we’re looking at the KG242Y gaming monitor, and why it’s an excellent choice if you’re building a budget-friendly gaming rig.
Here are the specifications of the Nitro KG2 Gaming Monitor, particularly the KG242Y SQbiip model:
Screen Size: 23.8 inches
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Panel Type: Vertical Alignment (VA)
Refresh Rate: 165Hz
Response Time: 1ms (VRB)
Brightness: 250 nits
Connectivity: 2 HDMI ports and 1 DisplayPort
Dimensions with stand: 16.2" (height) x 21.3" (width) x 8.5" (depth)
Weight: Approximately 8.69 lbs
Additional Features: VESA compliance, AMD FreeSync Premium technology, Acer BlueLightShield, Acer Flickerless, Acer ComfyView
Inclusions: Power cord, HDMI cable, and stand
Stunning Visuals and Fluid Gameplay
Acer has packed the Nitro KG242Y gaming monitor with a range of features to enhance visual quality. The 23.8-inch monitor displays crisp images in Full HD resolution. Adaptive Contrast Management automatically enhances dark details and bright highlights, providing a wider range of colors and making it easier to spot the subtlest visual cues.
The 165Hz refresh rate ensures that visuals are fluid and responsive even in fast-paced gaming environments like first-person shooters and racing titles. To boost your competitive edge further, the monitor has a 1ms response time to minimize ghosting and blurring. This rapid response helps create sharp, precise movements on screen and enables you to react quickly to in-game events.
Ultra-Smooth Gaming with AMD FreeSync™ Technology
Screen tearing and stuttering are the bane of any gamer’s experience, especially when playing graphically intense games. Acer Nitro KG2 monitors combat these issues with AMD FreeSync Premium technology, which synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with your compatible AMD graphics card. This dynamic refresh rate adjustment eliminates screen tearing, providing a smoother and more immersive experience during action-packed scenes.
The combination of AMD FreeSync and a fast refresh rate makes the Nitro KG242Y a prime candidate for competitive gaming, where every millisecond counts. You can enjoy seamless and immersive gameplay whether you’re exploring open-world landscapes or battling enemies in an online arena.
Enhanced Ergonomics
The minimalist design of the Acer Nitro KG242Y gaming monitor features narrow bezels and a thin profile. It’s versatile enough for any gaming setup, whether you’re short on desk space or planning a multi-monitor rig. It’s also VESA compliant, so you can mount it on a wall or an adjustable arm for better ergonomics.
Extra features designed for users’ comfort add to the reasons this monitor is great for extended gaming sessions. It has tilt adjustments from -5° to 15°, allowing you to find the optimal viewing angle that won’t strain your neck. Additionally, this Nitro KG2 display is engineered with Acer’s BlueLightShield, Flickerless, and ComfyView technologies. BlueLightShield reduces harmful blue light emissions to reduce eye strain, while Flickerless prevents screen flickering that can contribute to headaches and fatigue. Acer ComfyView reduces glare from ambient light. This feature ensures that no matter the lighting conditions, screen reflections won’t interfere with your gameplay.
Dual HDMI Connectivity
The Nitro KG242Y gaming monitor includes DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, offering added flexibility for gamers who alternate between multiple devices. With dual HDMI ports, you can connect both your gaming PC and your console to the monitor, then jump between platforms easily without needing to switch cables every time. This feature is also great for multitasking. You can display multiple sources simultaneously, which can come in handy for work tasks or for watching tutorials while playing on your console gaming monitor.
Superior Performance at a Competitive Price
For gamers seeking a well-rounded monitor that doesn’t skimp on performance, an Acer Nitro KG2 model like the KG242Y SQbiip is a solid choice. Its sleek design, stutter-free visuals, and comfortable viewing options cater to both casual and hardcore players. It can also double as a high-quality display for everyday use, such as productivity tasks or streaming and entertainment. Offering versatility and functionality at an affordable price, this monitor is worth adding to any gaming setup.
Looking for a new gaming monitor? Get product guides, gaming news, and other tech-related updates with the weekly Acer Corner Email Digest. Subscribe now at this page.
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About Micah Sulit: Micah is a writer and editor with a focus on lifestyle topics like tech, wellness, and travel. She loves writing while sipping an iced mocha in a cafe, preferably one in a foreign city. She's based in Manila, Philippines.
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The Pros and Cons of Overclocking RAM
Attention gamers! Do higher memory speeds and boosted performance in a range of games sound appealing? If so, overclocking RAM can deliver a plethora of benefits to your gaming prowess. Overclocking RAM lets users experience reduced load times and smoother frame rates when playing memory-intensive games. As well as bringing benefits to your gaming, overclocking also serves up improved multitasking thanks to enhanced data transfer speeds.
What goes up must come down, and while converts to the benefits of overclocking RAM are plenty, you may have heard of various pitfalls of overclocking. Before we proceed, beware that these include overheating, voiding warranties and even stability issues. While we take no responsibility for your RAM overclocking, read on to get the full picture and decide if it's for you or not.
If you’re wondering how to overclock RAM, or want to discover more about what happens if you overclock your RAM too much, then you’re in the right place. In this article we’ll cover the fundamentals of RAM, as well as the benefits and pitfalls of overclocking. We’ll also delve into whether you’re better off buying more RAM, or overclocking what you already have. And in case you were wondering, we’ll also dish out the acronym knowledge, from RAM to DDR and SSDs. Let’s get stuck in!
What is RAM?
Short for Random Access Memory, RAM is the hardware in your computer that provides temporary storage for data the CPU (central processing unit) needs quick access to. This means that when you’re using multiple applications on your PC, the RAM holds the active data, increasing overall system performance. RAM is part of the computer’s primary memory, and is faster to read from, as well as write to than secondary storage like SSDs (solid-state drives).
When you turn off your computer, RAM loses its stored data. Hit the power button again and RAM retrieves stored data from the HDD (hard drive) or SSD. You’ll commonly see computers have 8, 16, 32, or even 64 GB of RAM. The more RAM a computer has, the better it can handle demanding applications and multitasking. For gamers, sufficient RAM, boosted by overclocking delivers smoother gameplay thanks to minimized lag and loading times.
How much RAM do you really need?
More is generally more in computing, and RAM is no exception. The amount you require depends entirely on how you use your PC. For light browsing and document use, 8 GB is likely sufficient, but if you’re gaming or editing videos then 16 GB should be your minimum. For serious gamers and creative pros working with large files, then 32 GB and above should see you through until your next upgrade.
Clocking in
Before we enter the world of DDR, let’s quickly cover how the clock signal synchronizes your PC’s operations. Put simply, the clock signal is a timing pulse that establishes a rhythm for data processing. Each pulse triggers operations in the CPU, ensuring that instructions are executed in synchronicity. The rising and falling edges are transitions in the signal’s waveform, rising occurs when the signal goes from low to high, falling when it goes from high to low. Clock speed, also known as processor or CPU speed, is measured in Herts (Hz) and gigahertz (GHz), displaying how many cycles a CPU executes per second. So, a laptop with a 3.80GHz clock speed can execute 3.8 billion cycles per second.
DDR4 and DDR5
Now, as promised, more acronyms: DDR (double data rate) is a type of memory that transfers data on the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. First introduced in the 90s, DDR is itself classified as SDRAM (synchronous dynamic random access memory), meaning that it synchronizes with the system’s clock speed. DDR doubles the data rate of its predecessor SDR (single data rate), allowing faster data processing, greatly enhancing computer processing power over the past decades.
DDR4 (since 2014) and DDR5 (since 2020) are the RAM iterations you’re likely to encounter in modern PCs. While DDR4 provides greatly improved speeds as well as reduced power consumption compared to predecessors, DDR5 is where it’s at today. DDR5 represents the pinnacle of RAM evolution so far, with next-gen bandwidth, greater capacity and power management features. All in all, DDR5 lets your computer process more data simultaneously, providing faster load times and data transfer rates, reducing latency, and improving frame rates.
What are the pros of overclocking RAM?
* Enhanced performance. A cheeky overclock boosts your overall system performance, delivering quicker load times and better frame rates for games. Better frame rates means increased responsiveness, potentially giving you an edge over your opponents in demanding games.
* Improved multitasking. As we touched on above, more RAM = smoother multitasking, allowing you to run many applications without the dreaded lag.
* Higher efficiency. By reducing latency, overclocking RAM allows data to be processed faster. In games where every millisecond matters, faster response to your commands can be the difference between victory and defeat!
* Budget upgrade. Buying new hardware can quickly become an expensive hobby. By overclocking your RAM, you kill two birds with one stone: postpone that upgrade and achieve better performance.
And the cons of overclocking RAM?
* Warranty issues. Regardless of your PC’s manufacturer, overclocking RAM generally voids your warranty. If you overclock and then something goes wrong with your PC, you might find yourself without support.
* Overheating. Higher temps are quickly reached when overclocking RAM. Without the correct cooling solutions, thermal throttling and even damaged components can be the price you pay for overclocking RAM.
* Stability problems. Depending on your system, your motherboard may or may not support overclocking. If it’s not supported, then overclocking can cause system instability, meaning errors and frequent crashing, especially in demanding applications.
* Not worth it? Performance increases are all well and good, but at what cost? Along with the above negatives, the potential for data loss, and even strain on system longevity are factors to consider. This is an issue for individual users to decide for themselves if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Final considerations
We hope that you’ve enjoyed learning about RAM and the pros and cons of overclocking. Now you may be wondering if it’s worth buying more RAM or just overclocking it instead? This really depends on your individual requirements. For gamers or power users who regularly run memory-intensive games and applications, then an upgrade delivers a solid performance boost. If, however, you're after a budget solution and can stomach the risks, then overlooking RAM is the answer. If that’s the path you choose to take, head over to Intel for an in-depth guide of how to overclock RAM, and learn from the master chefs themselves!
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10 Best Characters in Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero brings fans back to the Dragon Ball universe in a big way, combining iconic characters and flashy battles with gameplay inspired by Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi, the beloved PS2-era series known for its 3D arenas and massive roster. With a character selection of over 180 fighters and the freedom to reenact or even rewrite key battles from Akira Toriyama's classic series, Sparking! Zero pays homage to Dragon Ball’s most memorable moments.
This game isn’t about tight, frame-counting combat like Tekken or Street Fighter. Instead, Sparking! Zero revolves around managing movement, key energy, and transformations while pulling off explosive ultimate moves. Its mechanics are layered enough to reward strategic play, making certain characters stand out as top choices for competitive matches. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top ten most powerful and "broken" characters in Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, showcasing who truly dominates on the battlefield and why.
What makes a character OP or broken in Sparking! Zero
In Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, a character’s strength depends on how effectively they leverage core game mechanics to control battles and outmaneuver opponents. Here’s what we look for:
* Key management and regeneration: Characters who regenerate or sustain key better stay on the offensive longer, winning critical “vanish wars” by outlasting their opponents’ energy reserves.
* Access to core mechanics: Essential abilities like insta-spark, full power, and after-image strike give characters versatile ways to reset, evade, or apply pressure, providing major advantages in competitive play.
* Endurance and health restoration: Self-sustaining abilities and high durability give characters the edge in longer matches, especially in team formats, by allowing them to survive and recover without relying on teammates.
* Unblockable and hard-to-counter moves: Moves that bypass typical defenses force opponents into difficult situations and create openings that are tough to counter.
* High damage and combo potential: Powerful combos and high base damage are critical, especially when these moves can’t be easily interrupted or countered.
* Adaptability: Characters who perform well across different matchups, or have multiple forms or transformations, add strategic depth and flexibility to any team.
Characters that dominate these areas are the strongest in Sparking! Zero, making them top picks for competitive play.
10 best characters in Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
1. Broly (Z)
Z Broly is one of the most overpowered characters in Sparking! Zero, largely due to his incredible durability and key-sustaining abilities, which allow him to dominate opponents through powerful, hard-to-counter attacks. Broly’s unblockable moves make him a nightmare to face off against, especially since he can bypass most standard defenses and gain the upper hand in tight combat situations. His transformation into the legendary Super Saiyan boosts his power significantly, making him even more dangerous.
In competitive play, Broly’s toolkit shines in key management and pressure. Not only does he possess the insta-spark ability to quickly regain key, but he also transforms into a nine-cost powerhouse, meaning he’s stronger in transformed states and able to access more powerful moves and strategies. This heightened strength lets him outlast opponents in vanish wars, as he can efficiently replenish key while staying aggressive and keeping enemies on the defensive.
Z Broly’s combination of unblockable moves, high base power, and endurance creates a nearly unbeatable character, especially for players skilled in key and vanish management. His ability to perform high-damage combos and force opponents into constant defense means that Z Broly can control most battles, making him a top-tier choice for players looking to dominate in Sparking! Zero.
2. Broly (Super)
Super Broly is another top-tier powerhouse, combining sheer offensive power with efficient key management to dominate the battlefield. Like Z Broly, Super Broly benefits from his ability to transform into a nine-cost character, which gives him access to heightened stats and stronger attacks. However, where he truly excels is in his balanced strength across both base and transformed states, allowing him to maintain pressure regardless of his transformation status.
Super Broly’s versatility shines in competitive play. His transformations grant him insta-spark, allowing him to quickly regain key, making him nearly unstoppable in vanish wars, where outlasting opponents is critical. Super Broly is also equipped with heavy-hitting, hard-to-counter attacks that often leave opponents struggling to defend, especially when he combines them with well-timed key blasts. His strong combos, which can inflict heavy damage, make him a brutal force against weaker or poorly timed counters.
What makes Super Broly especially intimidating is his ability to adapt his play style based on the opponent. Against weaker players, his offensive output alone is enough to overwhelm; against high-level players, his insta-spark and ability to manage key effectively make him incredibly hard to take down. This versatility, combined with his raw strength and efficient key usage, makes Super Broly one of the most dominant characters in Sparking! Zero.
3. Yajirobe (Post-Nerf)
Despite recent nerfs, Yajirobe remains a viable choice for players who can master his revised mechanics. Previously, Yajirobe’s ability to use Senzu Beans to fully recover health with ease made him one of the most frustrating characters to face in the game. Now, after an update by Spike Chunsoft, he’s far less of a crutch and more of a skill-based character, but his endurance and unique toolkit still make him valuable in competitive play.
The nerfs primarily target Yajirobe’s Senzu Bean ability. Instead of the original five Skill Count, it now costs six, making it one of the game’s most expensive abilities to pull off. Additionally, Yajirobe starts with zero Skill Count (rather than the standard two), meaning he’ll need to earn Skill Count gradually in battle, making full health recovery a much rarer event. On top of this, his health has also been reduced, and he now begins a match with two and a half health bars instead of three, leaving him more vulnerable than before.
While these changes require players to put in more work to make the most of Yajirobe’s toolkit, his Senzu Bean ability still holds great strategic value, especially in longer matches. His speed, evasiveness, and the potential to recover health with skillful play make him a valuable support character in team settings. With these adjustments, Yajirobe is no longer overpowered but remains a solid choice for skilled players who can navigate his limitations effectively in Sparking! Zero.
4. Android 19 & Dr. Gero
Android 19 and Dr. Gero stand out in the game as two of the most broken characters due to their unique ability to regenerate key indefinitely. While most characters must manage their key carefully, these androids bypass the standard mechanics entirely by having key that never depletes. This infinite key allows them to stay aggressive and outlast opponents in vanish wars, giving them a tremendous advantage in high-level play.
The infinite key regeneration alone makes Android 19 and Dr. Gero formidable, as it allows them to spam key attacks, manage vanish wars effortlessly, and continuously pressure opponents. They don’t need to break off combat to charge or manage key levels, allowing them to maintain offensive momentum. As vanish wars are crucial in competitive play, having an endless key supply means Android 19 and Dr. Gero can sustain key maneuvers where others would be forced to fall back.
Though they lack some of the hard-hitting moves of other top-tier characters, Android 19 and Dr. Gero’s constant access to vanish, super attacks, and evasive moves makes them especially hard to counter. This ability to stay active and responsive regardless of their key levels renders these androids some of the most frustrating opponents to face, cementing them as a powerful, if unconventional, choice in the game.
5. Vegito
When it comes to versatility and adaptability, few characters can match the dynamic toolkit of Vegito. His ability to switch between multiple transformations makes him a strategic nightmare for opponents, as he can adjust his form and play style to suit almost any matchup. With his range of forms, Vegito allows players to tailor their approach, whether they’re facing a defensive character or an aggressive powerhouse.
Central to Vegito’s power are his access to insta-spark and after-image strike—two of the game’s most essential mechanics. The insta-spark lets him quickly recover key, maintaining offensive pressure and allowing him to stay dominant in vanish wars. Meanwhile, after-image strike gives Vegito a significant defensive advantage, letting him evade incoming attacks and setting him up for counterattacks when his opponent least expects it. Together, these abilities make Vegito a character who can seamlessly shift between offense and defense.
Vegito’s flexibility makes him an asset in competitive play, as each transformation can be used strategically to either gain the upper hand or adapt to a changing battlefield. His mix of offensive firepower, defensive options, and form-switching potential makes him one of the most versatile characters in the game, keeping him in top-tier ranks and a favorite choice for players who value adaptability.
6. Ultra Instinct Goku
It’s hard to ignore the advantages UI Goku brings to the battlefield. As one of the few characters with both insta-spark and high-level evasion, he’s built for players who prioritize quick, reactive gameplay. UI Goku’s key strength lies in his ability to dodge attacks effortlessly and turn the tables with powerful counters, which makes him highly effective in fast-paced battles where precise timing is essential.
A standout feature of UI Goku is his near-unbreakable vanish game. Thanks to his efficient key management and access to insta-spark, he can outlast most opponents in vanish wars, maintaining his evasion streak and staying safe from combos. He also gains access to the powerful “charge key blast” ability, which allows him to inflict heavy damage and keep up pressure, punishing opponents who try to approach recklessly. This combination of key management and evasive ability allows him to sustain a defensive stance longer than most characters, buying him time to unleash devastating counters.
UI Goku’s setup rewards those who can master vanish timing and key usage, and he’s a perfect match for players who value strong defensive play with powerful counters. In the right hands, he’s nearly untouchable, as opponents struggle to keep up with his evasion and find openings. His evasive mastery and precise offense make UI Goku one of the most challenging characters to confront in the game.
7. Super Saiyan 4 Gogeta
SSJ4 Gogeta isn’t just about raw damage; he’s a finely-tuned powerhouse that combines high stats, aggressive key control, and unique combo mechanics that make him one of the most punishing characters in the game. With his ability to integrate key blasts directly into combos, Gogeta breaks the typical flow of vanish-counter strategies, making it hard for opponents to defend or reset once they’re caught in his string of attacks. This chaining technique allows him to maintain relentless pressure, capitalizing on any opening to maximize damage output.
His high base stats further set him apart, boosting both his durability and damage potential. As one of the rare characters who can truly dominate vanish wars, Gogeta leverages his insta-spark to continuously regain key, extending his offensive capabilities without pause. Once he charges up, Gogeta’s powerful key blasts and swift transitions between ranged and melee combat create a nearly unbreakable momentum, pushing his opponent to the brink.
In addition, SSJ4 Gogeta’s ultimate attacks are some of the hardest to dodge, with fast animation speeds that make them difficult to counter or avoid. His entire setup caters to players who thrive on sustained aggression, using his blend of power and unbreakable combos to overwhelm opponents. For those seeking a high-risk, high-reward playstyle, SSJ4 Gogeta is a top-tier pick that’s as intimidating as he is effective in the right hands.
8. Whis
Whis brings a unique playstyle to the game, focused on defensive maneuvers that make him exceptionally hard to hit. Unlike most characters, Whis can avoid typical attacks just by standing still, bypassing grabs, standard melee hits, and even some key blasts. This unique stance gives Whis a built-in evasion ability that lets him sidestep attacks without needing to burn key on vanishes or other evasive moves, effectively giving him a free layer of defense that’s tough for opponents to work around.
Beyond his evasive stance, Whis’s stats make him an ideal choice for players who prefer a defensive approach with strong counter potential. His high base stats in both attack and defense mean he can absorb hits when necessary and deal punishing counters when the time is right. Additionally, his healing ability lets him recover quickly, sustaining him through long fights and keeping him a constant threat. In vanish wars, Whis’s evasion skills shine, as he can conserve key while his opponent expends theirs trying to land a hit.
For players who enjoy outlasting their opponent through patience and precision, Whis is one of the most challenging and rewarding characters in the game. His ability to evade most attacks effortlessly and his strong counter options keep him firmly in the high-tier ranks.
9. Android 17 (Super)
Android 17 (Super) brings a deadly mix of agility and energy control to the battlefield. Known for his rapid attack sequences and evasive abilities, 17 is one of the quickest characters in the game, which makes him tough to pin down. His insta-spark ability allows him to instantly recharge key, enabling him to stay mobile and aggressive without the typical limitations of key depletion. This agility is a huge asset in vanish wars, as 17 can outmaneuver and outlast opponents who can’t match his speed or energy recovery.
What sets Android 17 (Super) apart is his low-cost explosive wave ability, which he can activate quickly to push opponents away and reset the fight. This move, combined with his ability to dodge and counter easily, allows 17 to dictate the pace of battle, especially against slower or more rigid characters. His constant barrage of swift attacks and quick counters can easily overwhelm opponents who rely on slower, high-damage moves.
In competitive play, Android 17 (Super) appeals to players who prioritize speed and relentless pressure. His mix of evasive capabilities, quick attacks, and energy management ensures he’s a consistent threat on the battlefield, making him one of the more challenging characters to face in the game.
10. Beerus
Known in Dragon Ball lore as the God of Destruction, Beerus brings a commanding presence to the game with a playstyle that blends precision, power, and tactical key usage. Unlike some of the game’s pure bruisers, Beerus excels at controlling the battlefield through a calculated mix of high-damage attacks and strong key management. His insta-spark ability allows him to efficiently recover key, which means he can maintain offensive pressure while extending combos without the need to pause for a recharge.
What sets Beerus apart is the accuracy and tracking of his key blasts, making it difficult for opponents to dodge and often forcing them to burn key on evasive moves. His ability to land precise, long-range hits adds an extra layer of control over the battlefield, keeping opponents constantly on the defensive. When it’s time to close the gap, Beerus can unleash fast, high-damage melee attacks and ultimate moves with some of the quickest activation speeds in the game, making his close-range offense difficult to counter.
For players who prefer a strategic, commanding playstyle, Beerus offers both offensive and defensive versatility. His ability to control the fight at both close and long range—coupled with the lore-fueled intimidation factor as the God of Destruction—makes him a top-tier choice for those looking to dominate the battlefield with a balance of power and precision.
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In the World of inZOI: Life Simulation Revolutionized
Developed by Krafton, inZOI is a groundbreaking life simulation game that offers a unique and immersive experience. Unlike other games in the genre, inZOI provides a comprehensive community simulation where every character, known as a "Zoi," acts on their free will. This creates a dynamic and ever-changing world that closely mirrors real life.
In August 2024, a Character Studio demo was held, allowing players to explore the game's extensive character customization features ahead of its anticipated release. With Early Access set to launch in late 2024, inZOI is already generating excitement with its promise of photorealistic graphics and deep gameplay mechanics that distinguish it from traditional titles.
Core Concept and Objectives
At its core, inZOI is designed to provide players with a sandbox environment where they can create and control Zois. The primary objective is to manage the lives of these characters by fulfilling their needs—such as hunger, hygiene, and social interaction—while also allowing for a rich narrative experience. Players can explore various cities, engage in diverse activities, and shape their Zois' destinies through choices that reflect real-life scenarios.
The game emphasizes user-generated content, encouraging players to share their creations through an online platform called Canvas. This feature allows users to upload their custom characters and homes, fostering a community of creativity and collaboration. And unlike many life simulation games that focus solely on individual households, inZOI encourages players to decorate or edit public city spaces.
Gameplay Mechanics
The inZOI gameplay loop revolves around open-world exploration, character development, and interaction. Players begin by customizing their Zois using an extensive character creator that offers detailed options for appearance, personality traits, and clothing. The character creator boasts a diversity of, from babies and tweens to young adults and senior citizens.
Once created, players can guide their Zois through various activities—interacting with other characters, forming relationships, embarking on hobbies, and pursuing careers. Each city offers different job options. In Bliss Bay, for example, available jobs include fast food restaurant workers and amusement park employees, while those in Dowon include convenience store staff, firefighters, and K-pop entertainers.
The build mode offers an extensive catalog of items to construct and furnish a Zoi's home. New walls, floors, ceilings, and windows can be created with just a few clicks, and each room can be customized to players' exact specifications. The free mode allows for flexibility in item placement, including stacking objects as desired, ensuring a personalized and engaging building experience.
inZOI goes beyond typical preset colors and patterns by enabling players to generate artificial intelligence (AI) images via an in-game search prompt. These images can be applied to decorative items like curtains and wall art, adding a genuinely personal touch and making the design process accessible even for those lacking artistic skills. Players can mix and match various elements of furnishings, while those preferring quick setups can select build presets to create complete houses with ease. In build mode, players can also choose the Unlimited Floors option, providing limitless possibilities for home creation.
The game's expansive maps offer a variety of customization options, including the ability to adjust city safety levels, impacting crime rates and social dynamics. Players can even control the population of specific animals, such as cats, hinting at the possibility of incorporating pets into households.
Part of the development roadmap, other features that players can expect to see include:
* Karma System: Players' actions have consequences that affect their Zois' future experiences. This adds depth to decision-making as choices can lead to different outcomes.
* City Edit: Players can set the parameters for weather, cleanliness, and what's written on billboards.
* Drivable Vehicles: There are cars that Zois can drive or ride.
Realism and Life Simulation Features
https://youtu.be/aApSteSbeGA?si=OoTJgAkmHIfiVJmX
One of the standout features of the inZOI game is its commitment to realism. Developed using Unreal Engine 5, this real-life simulation game boasts crisp, clear graphics that bring its world to life in ways that similar titles have not achieved. The environments are thoroughly detailed, offering immersive settings where players can engage with their surroundings meaningfully. Additionally, players can scan real-world objects to create in-game 3D models, adding a layer of authenticity to the game
inZOI also implements a comprehensive community simulation where each character operates autonomously. This means unexpected events can occur—such as car accidents or social conflicts—mirroring the unpredictability of real life. Such features aim to enhance the emotional depth of the gameplay experience, allowing players to navigate challenges like those they face in reality.
Is inZOI a Similar Game to The Sims?
inZOI and The Sims represent two distinct approaches to life simulation gaming. One significant difference lies in the level of control players have over their environments; inZOI's inclusion of city editing and decoration allows for a more comprehensive gameplay experience compared to The Sims, which primarily focuses on individual households.
Moreover, the inZOI game's focus on user-generated content through its Canvas platform enhances community engagement by allowing players to showcase their creativity extensively. This feature contrasts with The Sims, which has more restricted sharing options. Additionally, inZOI's dynamic interactions reflect real-life social complexities more effectively than The Sims, encouraging deeper engagement with characters as they navigate various challenges. Overall, while both games cater to fans of life simulation, inZOI's innovative mechanics and community-focused elements provide a fresh perspective that distinguishes it from the established formula of The Sims.
inZOI Game Platforms
inZOI is set to be available on multiple platforms. Initially available on PC via Steam at launch, it’s expected to expand to consoles such as PlayStation 5 and Xbox in subsequent updates according to announcements on the inZOI Discord channel. PC players might want to consider machines like the Predator Helios Neo 16 Gaming Laptop. It exceeds the game's recommended system requirements, ensuring smooth gameplay for users seeking high-performance gaming experiences.
Will inZOI Be Free?
As of now, there’s no information on whether inZOI will be free to play. However, players can add the game to their wishlist on platforms like Steam to stay updated on any announcements regarding pricing and availability.
For news and insights about gaming, AI, gadgets, and the tech-rich lifestyle, subscribe to the Acer Corner Email Digest.
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About Lalaine Capucion: Lalaine has been working as a freelance writer and editor for more than 12 years, focusing on lifestyle, travel, and wellness. When she isn't writing, she's most likely curled up with a good book or trying out a new recipe in the kitchen. She lives in Metro Manila, Philippines.
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Acer Iconia Tab M10: Ultra-Light, Sleek Tablet with Impressive Features
A tablet PC is a wireless computer operated by a touchscreen interface. Nestled somewhere between a laptop and a smartphone, tablets are usually around 7 to 13 inches (7.78 to 33.02 cm) in size. Tablet PCs are portable, comfortable to carry around, and do not require an external mouse or keyboard, making them a sound choice for users on the go. They typically offer a larger storage capacity than smartphones, so users can download applications and store photos and videos without worrying about running out of room. Moreover, tablets have a battery life comparable to laptops, benefiting those who want to catch up with work on a train ride, snap photos on a weekend getaway, or watch a series or movie during a flight.
Why you should buy a tablet PC
Most people nowadays own a smartphone. The number of smartphone users in the US alone was over 310 million in 2024, which is expected to grow as technology advances. Despite this, tablets are still a great option for those who want access to tech while on the move. Here are some reasons why a tablet PC may be a fitting addition to your tech arsenal.
1. Lightweight and portable
Tablet PCs are usually lightweight and ultra-portable, weighing around one-third of a standard laptop, making them an ideal travel companion. They slip easily into a briefcase or bag pocket and are easily accessible during journeys and commutes. Although larger than smartphones, tablet PCs are easier to transport than most laptops, so they are a top choice for frequent travelers.
2. Entertainment during travel
Traveling with a tablet PC means that entertainment is always at your fingertips. From eBooks to mobile games or streaming, tablet PCs offer personal entertainment for home or outdoors. They are excellent for watching movies or binge-watching a series on a screen bigger than a smartphone.
3. Suitable for meetings and presentations
Tablet PCs are user-friendly and suitable for use in various locations. For example, users can simply set up a tablet in the kitchen while playing music or following a recipe instead of transporting a bulky laptop. They are also handy for sharing meeting content such as presentations or other documents and are easier to transport than a laptop. By loading files on a tablet PC, users have work presentations on hand to make an outstanding impression during meetings.
4. Classroom-friendly
Technology is part of learning in today’s world. Schools could opt for tablets to facilitate interactive education instead of setting up multiple laptops around a classroom. Tablets are generally lower in cost than laptops and can be safeguarded by a protective case, keeping them safe from spillage or drops. They give kids access to the online world without investing in laptops, offering connectivity in the classroom.
Introducing the Acer Iconia Tab M10
The Acer Iconia Tab M10 is a lightweight tablet that is perfect for home or school use. Offering an ideal balance between education and entertainment, this sleek tablet boasts a 9-hour battery life and an ultra-light 430g design. But don’t be fooled by its lightweight form — the Acer Iconia Tab M10 possesses a 10.1-inch (25.65) WUXGA touchscreen to grab your attention while surfing the web, watching movies, or playing games.
This stunning tablet is just 8.6 mm thin, making it perfectly portable and slender enough to slip into a handbag or backpack. Users can flick smoothly between videos, photos, and games, so entertainment is always there during travel or downtime. Moreover, the Acer Iconia Tab M10 has dual-band Wi-Fi capability and 5 MP front and 8 MP rear cameras, facilitating crystal-clear video calls and high-resolution photos.
If that wasn’t reason enough to consider purchasing the Acer Iconia Tab M10, there are also kid-friendly apps to keep children safe as they swipe. Google Kids Space features quality educational content designed to engage children while protecting them from inappropriate materials. Parents can also choose to manage screen time and more with the Family Link app.
Acer Iconia Tab M10 Specifications
* Operating system: Android
* Processor type: MediaTek Cortex®
* Processor model: A73/A53 Heterogeneous Multi-Processor
* Processor speed: 2.0 GHz
* Processor core: Octa-core (8 Core™)
* Standard memory: 4 GB
* Memory technology: LPDDR4
* Supported memory card: microSD card reader up to 512GB (SDXC & exFAT compatible)
* Flash memory capacity: 128 GB
* Screen mode: WUXGA
* Screen resolution: 1920 x 1200
* Number of speakers: 2
* Wireless LAN standard: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
* Bluetooth standard: Bluetooth 5.0 & GPS
* USB ports: 1 USB 2.0 (type-C) port
* Webcam resolution: 5MP webcam (front), 8MP webcam (rear)
* Keyboard type: Multi-touch screen
* Height: 0.33” (0.83 cm)
* Width: 9.5” (24.13 cm)
* Depth: 6.3” (16 cm)
* Weight (approx): 0.95 lbs (0.43 kg)
* Battery life: up to 9 hours
So, are tablet PCs really worth the hype?
There are many advantages to owning a tablet PC instead of or in addition to a laptop and smartphone. They are lightweight, portable, and do not require a mouse or a keyboard, making them super convenient for use on vacation, in business meetings, or even in the classroom. The Acer Iconia Tab M10 ticks all of these boxes and more, with a 4GB memory and a sleek 8.6mm design. Check out this Acer tablet and more on the Acer online store.
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How Ideogram AI is Redefining Text-to-Image Generation
Transforming your ideas into exquisite visual content now takes only a few clicks, thanks to generative artificial intelligence (AI), and Ideogram 2.0 has made it even easier. This recently launched AI model introduces large leaps forward in both usability and capability. Today, we’ll explore what makes it a compelling creative companion for marketers, designers, and hobbyists.
Ideogram and other cutting-edge design tools work best when paired with the advanced capabilities of an AI laptop like the Acer Swift X 14. Tailored for creative work, this laptop has a powerful Intel Core Ultra processor, dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, and a brilliant WQXGA+ OLED display.
What is Ideogram 2.0?
Launched in August 2024, Ideogram 2.0 is the latest text-to-image model from Ideogram, a company focused on enabling creative expression with AI tools. Compared to its predecessors, Ideogram 2.0 offers significant improvements in image generation. It can create realistic images, stylized illustrations, and typography with remarkable accuracy and detail. It’s trained to understand context and aesthetic preferences, along with specific user instructions.
What sets this Ideogram AI model apart from the many AI-powered creative tools available? Let’s take a look at its innovative key features.
Unparalleled Image Quality
Ideogram 2.0 generates images with exceptional clarity, detail, and photorealism, outperforming other text-to-image models in user evaluations. Not only does it capture the nuances of texture, lighting, and composition, but it can also render coherent text within images. This is a notable feature that was missing from many existing generative models.
Enhanced Textual Understanding
Due to significant improvements in the model’s comprehension of natural language, it can accurately interpret and respond to a broader range of text prompts. Generated images align more closely with users’ intended concepts and styles.
Diverse Style Options
Users can select from various artistic styles such as Realistic, Design, 3D, and Anime. This feature allows them to experiment with various approaches to visual content. It can also streamline the creative process for those with projects requiring a specific design aesthetic.
Advanced Color Palette Control
Ideogram 2.0 enables users to choose from suggested color palettes or build their own five-color custom palette. This feature facilitates greater artistic control, especially for designers and brands looking to maintain a cohesive visual identity.
Cutting-Edge Prompting Tools
Magic Prompt enhances your inputs by offering variations with more detail and creativity. Describe generates detailed prompts from your uploaded images or existing AI-generated ones you find in Ideogram Search. These advanced prompting features lead to endless iterations and new creative directions.
All in all, Ideogram 2.0’s main features give users greater flexibility and control over the creative process. You don’t need innate graphic design skills to explore different visual styles or achieve specific artistic effects. Ideogram’s improved interface and expanded options help you fine-tune the creative output effortlessly.
To accompany the Ideogram 2.0 web platform and API, its creators launched an Ideogram AI image generator app for iOS. (An Android version is in the works.) The official app retains all the functionalities of the web version while providing a streamlined experience for mobile users.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoF8hAbES7U
How Much Does Ideogram Cost?
Ideogram AI offers four subscription tiers to accommodate various user needs. The free plan gives users 10 slow credits daily, allowing for up to 40 images per month. It includes access to community galleries and the ability to download your creations as compressed JPGs.
Paid plans start with a Basic option providing 400 priority credits (approximately 1,600 images) per month and 100 slow credits a day. Its additional features include seamless tiling and custom aspect ratios. Plus and Pro subscriptions unlock Ideogram’s full capabilities, such as image uploads, custom color palettes, and private image generation. On top of their much higher priority credits, both plans offer unlimited slow credits.
Ideogram’s Vast Community and Image Library
Unlike many AI tools that operate in isolation, Ideogram is a thriving community-driven platform. It fosters a collaborative ecosystem where users can interact, share their output, and learn from one another. This enriches the overall experience and makes Ideogram more than just an image generation tool—it’s also a creative hub.
The focus on community engagement has led to an expansive library of user-created images. In the past year alone, more than one billion creations were added to this public repository. Whether you’re a newbie who’s curious about Ideogram’s capabilities or a long-time user looking for references and inspiration, you’ll find tons of ideas from images generated by users around the world. Paid subscribers can use Ideogram 2.0’s robust search feature to browse the community images more easily. You can filter by style or popularity, or enter specific keywords used in the original prompts.
For its diverse range of users, Ideogram 2.0 is redefining the boundaries of creative expression. AI-powered design tools like this are no longer just aids. They’re becoming true collaborators, enabling creators to explore new visual styles, streamline workflows, and push the limits of what’s possible in AI-generated imagery. As models like Ideogram become more sophisticated, we can expect even more innovative forms of art and storytelling to emerge, making it an exciting era for creatives across all disciplines.
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About Micah Sulit: Micah is a writer and editor with a focus on lifestyle topics like tech, wellness, and travel. She loves writing while sipping an iced mocha in a cafe, preferably one in a foreign city. She's based in Manila, Philippines.
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The Swift 14 AI Laptop Featuring the AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 Processor
Do optimal productivity and a smarter, more efficient digital life appeal to you?
If so, bring a boost to your brilliance with Acer’s Swift 14 AI AMD laptop. This new range of Ryzen AI Copilot+ laptops embodies the latest level of AI performance, transforming your ideas into reality. This is a laptop that delivers AI excellence throughout the device. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 processor, the Swift 14 AI laptop features groundbreaking on-device AI power.
In practical terms, this means up to 50 TOPS NPU AI performance to supercharge multitasking, and did we mention multi-day battery life? If you’re ready to smash your intense workloads with ease, and break on through to the other side of multitasking, then the Swift 14 Ryzen AI may be the tool you require. Read on to discover more about Ryzen AI, and get the downlow on Copilot+ PCs. Once we’ve covered the essentials, we’ll check out the Swift 14 AI Laptop - SF14-61T-R49D for a taste of things to come in the world of on-the-go AI enhanced productivity.
What is Ryzen AI?
Perhaps you’re familiar with NVIDIA and Intel’s AI engines, but what about AMD? Short for Advanced Micro Devices, AMD is a California based semiconductor company. Famous for their Ryzen CPUs, AMD offers superior multi-core performance and value over Intel processors. Ryzen AI is a natural evolution of AMD’s technological innovation as processors move towards on-device AI integration
Powered by XDNA architecture, (AMD’s neural processing unit microarchitecture), a Radeon GPU and Ryzen processor cores, Ryzen AI was first introduced mid 2023 with the Ryzen 7040 series. A year and a bit on, the AMD AI package takes a three-pronged approach with AI infused CPU, NPU, and GPU technology. Let’s dig a little deeper to find out more:
* AMD Ryzen AI 300 CPU: Crafted around the Zen 5 architecture, these punchy processors pack up to 10 high performance cores and 20 threads for optimum multi-threaded performance.
* AMD XDNA 2 NPU: The NPU (neural processing unit) is the on-device AI brain, empowering you to run local generative AI apps as well as LLMs on your laptop. The XDNA 2 is the latest generation of NPU architecture with up to 50 TOPS of AI processing power.
* AMD Radeon 800M GPU: Whether you’re gaming, editing or simply enjoying the hi-res display, RDNA 3.5 architecture is in your corner. The smoothest possible gameplay and jaw-dropping visuals are seamlessly delivered via hardware-accelerated encoding.
What’s a Copilot+ PC?
First unveiled in June at COMPUTEX 2024, Copilot+ PCs are a new breed of devices designed to streamline your daily grind with intelligent AI solutions. As you saw above, in addition to CPUs and GPUs, Copilot+ PCs have NPUs (neural processing units) to power AI applications and services. With on-device AI-infused hardware, Copilot+ PCs feature new Windows capabilities, multi-day battery life and 24/7 intelligent assistance.
Copilot+ PCs such as the Swift 14 AI represent the fastest, most intelligent Windows PCs ever, equipped with ultra-efficient on-device AI processing and innovation. In short, this new wave of PCs is set to become the new norm for AI-enhanced computing, where efficiency and speed combine to optimize performance.
Swift 14 AI AMD in focus
Now let’s take a closer look at Acer’s Swift 14 AI AMD laptop. There are a range of Swift 14 AI AMD models available, and today we’re going to check out what Acer’s Swift 14 AI Laptop - SF14-61T-R49D can do for you. Currently retailing for $1,199.99, this Copilot+ PC is stacked full of impressive features. Let’s take a peek at the tech specs:
* Operating System: Windows 11 Home
* Processor: AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 Deca-core
* Processor Speed: 4 GHz
* Processor Speed (turbo): 5 GHz
* GPU: AMD Radeon™ 880M dedicated memory
* Display: 14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10 IPS 60 Hz Touchscreen
* Display Screen Technology: ComfyView (Matte); In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology; Eyesafe
* Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5X
* Storage: 1 TB SSD
* Wireless: IEEE 802.11be
* Built in Devices: Microphone, webcam, dual speakers, fingerprint reader
* Interfaces/Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Type-A, 2 x USB-C with USB4, headphone jack
* Input: Backlit keyboard, Touchpad
* Color: Pure Silver
* Dimensions: 12.32 x 8.74 x 0.39 - 0.7 inches
* Weight (Approx): 2.91 lbs
Unfold with a plan that won’t fold
A versatile laptop is an essential tool for on-the-go professionals. The Swift 14 AI is beyond versatile, once it's in your bag you may not even realize that it's there. Weighing in at 2.91 lbs, this laptop weighs about the same as your brain, or a medium-sized cat, for reference. Lightweight and ultra-thin, the sleek and stylish laptop is merely 0.39-0.7 inches in height. In today’s world of work, no two jobs are exactly the same, and the Swift 14 AI is ready to adapt, as the 2K touch IPS display opens a full 180 degrees.
Effortless AI
It’s easy to sing the praises of the AI revolution in terms of TOPS, computing power and NPUs. In reality though, the newfangled hardware and software needs to deliver tangible results from first use. A remarkable feature of the Swift 14 AI is the battery life, delivering up to 27 hours of use between charges. This is clearly a game changer for workers who may not always be within reach of a power supply.
Moving on to the supercharged AI performance, Copilot+ PCs are designed to be an extension of your workflow. Copilot is your on-hand AI assistant ready to find solutions and inspirations to support your collaboration and creativity. Recall provides you with an explorable timeline of your PC to find the things you need with minimal effort. Video calls and meetings are also augmented with Windows Studio Effects and real-time translation and subtitles in over 40 languages.
These Windows AI solutions are complemented by Acer’s very own suite of intuitive AI that’s easy to use from the get go. AcerSense is a hotkey to access all of your Swift 14 AI laptop’s AI features delivering a user-friendly AI experience. Acer User Sensing 2.0 detects your presence for secure sessions and quality-of-life features to help with hands-free multi-screen navigation.
Final considerations
That’s about it for today, we hope that you’ve enjoyed learning about AMD’s AI endeavors, as well as the basics of Copilot + PCs, and of course Acer’s Swift 14 AI AMD laptop. Bursting with a range of great features designed for efficient, immersive computing experiences, the Swift AI AMD is a stylish, lightweight powerful AI integrated device that’s ready to boost your brilliance. The final question is -are you ready? For more info, be sure to have a read of the Swift 14 AI AMD page.
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Destiny 2 Revenant Episode Guide: New Weapons, Builds, and Future Updates
Destiny 2 is currently navigating the aftermath of The Final Shape expansion, which serves as a climactic conclusion to the long-standing Light and Darkness saga. This expansion not only resolves key narrative arcs, but also sets the stage for future developments in the Destiny universe. Game developer Bungie has introduced a new episodic format to explore the consequences of this pivotal chapter through three interconnected episodes: Echoes, Revenant, and the upcoming Heresy.
Revenant: Act I
In Revenant, players embark on a journey that picks up where Echoes left off. Act I, launched on October 8, 2024, features weekly challenges and introduces players to a darker narrative centered around Fikrul the Fanatic—a character previously encountered in Forsaken. Taking up the mantle of Slayer Baron, Guardians go against Fikrul, who has seized control of an Echo and is utilizing its powers to forge a new army of darkness.
Players have access to a variety of new weapons, builds, and gameplay updates designed to enhance the Guardian's combat capabilities. When it comes to Destiny 2 builds, the Stasis Warlock build remains a top choice. Focusing on crowd control and area denial, this build utilizes the Osmiomancy Gloves exotic to enhance Coldsnap grenades. Pair this with aspects like Iceflare Bolts and Glacial Harvest to create a constant stream of Stasis shards, boosting ability regeneration and survivability in challenging encounters.
Hunter mains should consider the Void-based Nightstalker build, emphasizing invisibility and debuffing enemies. The Omnioculus exotic chest piece synergizes perfectly with Smoke Bomb, providing damage resistance and extra melee energy. Combine this with aspects like Trapper's Ambush and Stylish Executioner to maintain near-constant invisibility, making you an invaluable asset for team survivability and revives.
The Prismatic Titan build, featuring the Icefall Mantle, focuses on maximizing defense and offensive capabilities. With the Prismatic subclass, Titans gain access to a variety of abilities that enhance survivability and damage output. The Icefall Mantle exotic provides additional defensive benefits, granting Frost Armor and healing when using Stasis abilities. Good aspects for pairing include Diamond Lance, Tectonic Harvest, and Cryoclasm.
Onslaught: Salvation
Act I of Revenant introduces Onslaught: Salvation, a high-stakes activity in which players must navigate through waves of Fikrul's undead Scorn on all-new maps to rescue captured Eliksni, also known as the Fallen. The activity emphasizes strategic positioning and teamwork, with new objectives and defenses to overcome.
The loot pools for Onslaught: Salvation feature several new weapons, including:
* Bitter/Sweet Grenade Launcher: A heavy weapon with Arc damage, it has an adaptive frame of 120 rounds per minute. Perks include Perpetual Motion, Reverberation, and Jolting Feedback.
* Insurmountable Sidearm: This Void weapon includes perks such as Lone Wolf, Destabilizing Rounds, and Threat Detector. It's capable of firing 260 rounds per minute.
* Liturgy Grenade Launcher: A Stasis special weapon with a double fire feature, it shoots two grenades simultaneously. Perks include Rimestealer, Chill Clip, and Chain Reaction.
These powerful additions to the arsenal offer Guardians new strategic options and enhance their combat capabilities. Whether these items will make it to the list of the best Destiny 2 weapons, only time will tell.
Vesper's Host
https://youtu.be/CrEps8C_eYg?si=p6UZXIVDC2R2rFTt
The Vesper's Host dungeon, another major highlight of Act I, offers players an exciting new challenge. To unlock access, Guardians must obtain the Final Shape Dungeon Key, available through the in-game store or as part of specific expansion bundles. Once unlocked, Vesper's Host opens up a mysterious, lore-rich environment filled with intricate puzzles and formidable foes.
Recently, the Contest Mode for Vesper's Host concluded, showcasing the skills of the Destiny 2 community. During this mode, players faced heightened difficulty levels, requiring meticulous strategy and teamwork to succeed. Highlights included impressive completion times and inventive gameplay strategies that demonstrated the depth and potential of the dungeon.
With greater chances for loot and increased play potential, Vesper's Host rewards persistence and skill. Weapons to unlock here include the improved Icebreaker sniper rifle, the 600-rounds-per-minute auto rifle VL Pyroelectric Propellant, and the special grenade launcher VL Velocity Baton.
Fieldwork
Players engage in both major and minor fieldwork to further the storyline and enhance gameplay. Major fieldwork tasks are designed to provide significant rewards and upgrades. One example is the Blood Drive upgrade, where players collect Reclaimed Vitality for a chance to obtain uncommon reagents. These tasks often require players to defeat powerful enemies or complete specific objectives across various locations, including Europa and Nessus, ultimately contributing to the overarching narrative about Fikrul the Fanatic.
Minor fieldwork, on the other hand, consists of smaller tasks that players can complete more quickly. These missions often involve collecting mysterious objects or defeating enemies using specific damage types, such as Solar or Stasis. For example, one minor fieldwork task requires players to assist Eido by collecting items on Europa while defeating enemies. Completing these minor tasks yields tonic reagent sacks, which are essential for potion crafting.
Together, both major and minor fieldwork activities enrich the gameplay experience by encouraging exploration and teamwork while providing valuable rewards.
What to Expect in Acts II and III
Act II of the Revenant episode in Destiny 2: The Final Shape is set to launch on November 19, 2024. This act will continue the dark narrative surrounding Fikrul the Fanatic. Players can expect new activities, including a potential return of the Tombs of Elders, alongside fresh loot and gameplay mechanics that will further enrich the experience and challenge Guardians.
Act III will follow on January 7, 2025, concluding the Revenant episode. This act is anticipated to bring significant revelations about character arcs and lore, as well as an exotic mission that may tie together various narrative threads introduced throughout the episode. Bungie's commitment to delivering a cohesive and engaging story will culminate in this climactic finale, ensuring players remain invested in the evolving world of Destiny 2.
The Destiny 2 DLC Final Shape is available on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. For an optimal experience, PC gamers might want to upgrade to powerful machines like the Predator Orion 7000 Gaming Desktop, which features ample memory along with a high-performance Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card.
What’s Ahead for Destiny 2
Bungie is transitioning Destiny 2 to a new content model, moving away from annual story campaigns and starting a new adventure called Codename: Frontiers. Starting in summer 2025 with the expansion Codename: Apollo, players will receive two medium-sized expansions and four free updates per year, ensuring a more dynamic and engaging gaming experience.
Moreover, Bungie aims to enhance player satisfaction with the introduction of rarer loot and new weapon tiers. Private player vs. player matches will also be available, adding a fresh competitive element. The goal is to keep the game exciting and rewarding for both new and veteran players.
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About Lalaine Capucion: Lalaine has been working as a freelance writer and editor for more than 12 years, focusing on lifestyle, travel, and wellness. When she isn’t writing, she's most likely curled up with a good book or trying out a new recipe in the kitchen. She lives in Metro Manila, Philippines.
