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How to Turn on Admin Privileges in Windows 11
Computers are a minefield of sensitive information, especially for organizations or institutions like hospitals. As a precautionary measure, users can assign an administrator with more advanced control than standard users. Admin privileges allow administrators to change settings and restrict access to sensitive information. By entering a password, administrators can add and remove programs, access all files, and manage other user accounts. This is especially important for organizations or public computers with multiple users, as it offers protection against misuse or malicious actions. With restricted access, users cannot download certain applications or make major changes to computer systems, adding an extra layer of protection.
How do I know if I have admin privileges?
There are a few ways to tell whether or not admin privileges are enabled on a computer system.
1. When installing new software
When trying to install new software or an application, a User Account Control panel will usually appear and request a username and password. Users with admin privileges will be able to enter these credentials.
2. Using the Control Panel
Alternatively, users can check manually by opening the Control Panel and selecting User Accounts and will see the word Administrator if they have admin privileges.
3. Viewing Accounts on Windows 11
Windows 11 users can see whether or not they have admin privileges by pressing Windows + I to open settings, then clicking the user profile image and selecting Accounts from the left-hand menu. They can then check if they are logged in as an administrator.
4. Pressing the Command prompt
Another way to see if admin privileges are enabled is by pressing Windows + R to open to Run window. Then, type cmd into the dialog and press enter to open the Command Prompt, type net user username, and press enter. Replace the username with yours, and the system will state whether that username has admin rights.
5. Checking Computer Management
The final method for checking if a user has admin privileges is to right-click Start and select Computer Management > Local Users and Groups > Users. Double-clicking the user name will bring up the Properties interface. Then, switch to the Member tab to see if your username is a member of administrators.
How to enable admin privileges in Windows 11
If all of these methods are unsuccessful, admin rights are probably not enabled for your username. Luckily, Windows 11 devices can have multiple administrator accounts. Let’s see how to enable admin rights on Windows 11.
1. View Accounts on Windows 11
To switch on admin privileges, right-click Start and select Settings > Accounts. Then, click Family or Other Users, and select the user you wish to change. Click Change account type and choose Administrator from the drop-down box. Clicking OK will finalize this change.
2. Open the Control Panel
Most settings options on Windows 11 are available in the Settings tab, however admin privileges can also be accessed via the Control Panel. First, click the magnifying glass on the taskbar, type control panel, then click Control Panel. Then, select Change account type under the User Accounts banner and click the account you would like to change. Select Change the account type, check the Administrator option, and click Change Account Type.
How to turn off admin privileges in Windows 11
Windows 11 users can also disable admin privileges in just a few steps. This will not delete the account entirely but will nullify the admin rights for that account.
To do this, right-click Start and click Computer Management > System Tools > Local Users and Groups. Then, open the Users folder, right-click Administrator, and select Properties. Check Account is disabled and click OK to disable admin rights for a particular account.
Access all areas: admin privileges
Admin privileges protect computer devices from potential data leaks and malicious changes such as installing malware. With admin rights activated, only certain users can access information that may harm an organization’s computer network. We have provided five ways to check whether or not your user account has admin rights and included step-by-step instructions to enable them if not. It is best practice to activate admin rights only for trusted individuals, as they will have access to sensitive data and change important system settings. We have also included details on deactivating admin privileges in Windows 11 for those looking to remove a specific user account.
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The Upcoming Acer Intel Arc B (Battlemage) Series GPU
Gaming enthusiasts and content creators: If you were searching—or even lost, and find yourself here, then you’re in the right place. Today we’re back at it, reviewing the best graphics cards we can get our hands on. Yes, for your gaming pleasure we have four upcoming Acer Intel Arc B Series GPUs on today’s graphically fantastic menu.
Code-named Battlemage, these Intel B-Series GPUs feature Xe2 architecture and between 18 and 20 cores, bringing beyond-life-like clarity and detail with support for high FPS gaming at 1440p and stunning visuals up to 8k. Throw in clock speeds of up to 2900 MHz and, of course, Acer’s icy-cool FrostBlade thermal system, and the Acer Intel Arc B Series GPUs are game changers for DIY gamers in pursuit of ultimate-performance gaming and content creation.
Before we proceed any further, let’s clear one thing up: there’s nothing B grade about the Acer Intel Arc B Series GPUs. These Intel Arc GPUs are strictly A+ material: your ticket to exceptional gaming, versatile creation and a world of newfangled AI experiences. So, if you’re looking for an upgrade, or simply setting up a new PC andin need of a GPU, then read on to discover all you need to know about the B Series graphics cards, and how they’re ready to revolutionize your gaming journey. Later on in the article, we’ll also cover the tech-specs and release dates for these GPUs
To B, or not to B?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dl81n3ib53Y&list=PLYlJkx6PcK8veQlI2713B8ewnkFnzBAyM&index=1
How could we resist the pun? Jokes aside, the resounding consensus is that the B series GPUs empower gamers to excel in games today, tomorrow and onwards. So don’t be a ninny, be a battlemage, and slay to win with the B Series GPUs. Now let’s get stuck into the details surrounding these four horsemen of the graphics apocalypse!
The Battlemage series are Intel’s second generation of Arc GPUs. The upcoming release definitely represents a third contender stepping into the arena ready to swing its axe with Nvidia and AMD GPUs. If you’re weighing up the Intel B-Series with Nvidia and AMD alternatives, the B-Series models offer viable alternatives to equivalent models in the Nvidia and AMD camps, as you can see in this enlightening article covering the 7 reasons Intel’s Battlemage GPUs are what the GPU market needs.
Balancing performance and cost, B-Series GPUs feature high VRAM capacity, as well as top-notch AI-upscaling to deliver smooth gameplay at 1440p, outperforming comparable Nvidia and AMD GPUs in price-to-performance value. The B-Series provides some serious GPU bang per dollar spent, at prices we hope are accessible to most gamers.
B the best with Xe2 microarchitecture
To understand the B-Series, and how they deliver the best in modern gaming features, as well as accelerating AI workloads, we need to acquaint ourselves with the new Xe2 architecture and the XMX AI engines at the heart of the B-Series GPUs.
* Intel Arc B-Series all feature next-gen Xe2 architecture. This new architecture is designed to deliver improved efficiency and up to 50% better performance per core, while minimizing software overhead. Xe cores feature ray tracing units with increased capability, as well as improved mesh shading performance and better support of key graphics functions to ramp-up performance efficiency in all the latest game engines.
* XMX AI engines are the specialized AI engines at the, er, core of each Xe-core. XMX are high performance AI engines that provide machine learning hardware resources to further accelerate AI-infused gaming, as well as content and media creation.
There are two other key technologies integral to the success of these GPUs that we need to mention before we check out the hardware:
* Intel Xe Frame Generation technology XeFG provides higher fluidity to your gaming adventures, by interlacing AI-generated frames with existing graphics. This massively increases the FPS (frames per second) for added fluidity and performance.
* Intel Xe Low Latency technology. XeLL employs advanced algorithms to predict the best path from your input to the onscreen output, for seamless gaming experiences galore.
Meet the four Battlemages
The four upcoming Acer Intel Arc B-Series GPUs are: the Nitro Intel Arc B580 12GB, Nitro Intel Arc B580 OC 12GB, Nitro Intel Arc B570 10GB, and the Nitro Intel Arc B570 OC 10GB. All four GPUs share Acer’s FrostBlade dual fan technology, featuring smooth and durable dual ring ball-bearings to improve airflow and reduce noise. A corrosion-resistant aluminum protective backplate delivers upgraded structural integrity, while its larger vent design enhances cooling efficiency.
Bringing your gaming to life with unrivalled detail and clarity, the Battlemages can support up to 8k display. Connectivity wise, all of the B-Series GPUs have every output and interface angle covered: HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 2.1, while the PCIe 4.0 BUS Interface, with a max resolution of 7680x4320 on up to 4 simultaneous displays. Here’s the tech specs for the four Acer Intel Arc B-Series GPUs:
Nitro Intel Arc B580 12GB
* Graphics: Intel® Arc™ B-Series Graphics, DirectX 12 Ultimate, OpenGL 4.6, 20 Cores
* GPU Clock: 2670 MHz
* Memory: GDDR6, 456 Gbps bandwidth, 19 Gbps memory speed
* Graphics Memory Amount: 12 GB
Nitro Intel Arc B580 OC 12GB
* Graphics: Intel® Arc™ B-Series Graphics, DirectX 12 Ultimate, OpenGL 4.6, 20 Cores
* GPU Clock: 2740 MHz
* Memory: GDDR6, 456 Gbps bandwidth, 19 Gbps memory speed
* Graphics Memory Amount: 12 GB
Nitro Intel Arc B570 10GB
* Graphics: Intel® Arc™ B-Series Graphics, DirectX 12 Ultimate, OpenGL 4.6, 18 Cores
* GPU Clock: 2500 MHz
* Memory: GDDR6, 456 Gbps bandwidth, 19 Gbps memory speed
* Graphics Memory Amount: 12 GB
Nitro Intel Arc B570 OC 10GB
* Graphics: Intel® Arc™ B-Series Graphics, DirectX 12 Ultimate, OpenGL 4.6, 18 Cores
* GPU Clock: 2900 MHz
* Memory: GDDR6, 380 Gbps bandwidth, 19 Gbps memory speed
* Graphics Memory Amount: 10 GB
B ready for battle
We hope that you’ve enjoyed our foray into the Battlemage series of Acer Intel Arc B-Series GPUs. Representing peak performance at approachable prices, take a closer look at these four GPU beasts, and you’ll surely find the perfect graphics card for your gaming and content creation requirements. If you’re hungry for a taste of these future-ready graphics cards, you can already get the B580 models from your preferred PC store, but you’ll have to wait until Jan 16th 2025 for the release of the B570 models listed above.
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Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition Laptop: Dive into the Depths of Immersive 3D
The world is a three-dimensional space. Such a shame that our on screen activities are often limited by their two-dimensional nature. Well for those of you aspiring to cross over into another dimension, hold on to your seat, forget about clunky 3D glasses, and join us on our three-dimensional journey to discover the Acer Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop.
This laptop harnesses stereoscopic 3D technology: a specialized optical lens combines with eye-tracking technology to project images directly to both of your eyes, letting you enter the 3D realm. So whether you’re a gamer, designer, architect, or film enthusiast, this Acer 3D laptop is a portable portal to three-dimensional gaming, entertainment, and creation.
If you’re new to SpatialLabs, and wondering what we’re on about, don’t worry. Read on, and we’ll cover the essentials of this exciting step forward in immersive 3D technology, before giving you the lowdown on the Acer Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop. Let’s dive head-first into the deep end of 3D immersion!
What is SpatialLabs?
Acer SpatialLabs is an advanced suite of display, optical and real-time 3D rendering technologies found in Acer laptops, projectors, displays, and cameras. Featuring built-in immersive stereoscopic 3D for both gamers and creators, SpatialLabs devices are a next generation tool revolutionizing the ways we see, interact with and create in the digital world.
SpatialLabs works by combining an LCD lenticular lens overlay on the screen with state-of-the-art eye-tracking technology. “Stereos” means 3D in Greek, and to put it simply, the two lenses of the SpatialLabs system create a pair of images. By tracking the location of your eyes, the images are projcted to wherever you’re looking.
This results in the illusion of 3D: while you’re gaming, viewing, or creating, the tracking camera communicates with the display, offsetting each of the two images to add depth, for a glasses-free, immersive, and consistently smooth 3D experience. At this point in time, SpatialLabs technology can only track a single pair of eyes in front of the display —other viewers won’t share the immersive 3D viewing experience with you.
Regarding the eye-tracking tech, you don’t have to stay completely still for the 3D effect to work. The cameras track both eye and head movement, so if you play exciting games that have you jumping for joy, you can still jump for joy (just not too high), without compromising the quality of your gaming experience.
Meet the Acer Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop
https://youtu.be/OHeglrfuTLQ
For a truly mesmerizing 3D experience, the Aspire 3D 15 is equipped with the SpatialLabs tech discussed above, and the 15.6-inch UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS 60 Hz display is your personal 3D canvas. Immersive viewing aside, this isn’t just a laptop with a 3D display.
Exceptional speed and peerless performance are delivered via the 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU with 6 GB dedicated memory. The perfect partner for smooth and seamless 3D rendering and multitasking, the Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition Laptop - A3D15-71GM-79ZM is currently available for $2,259.99. Let’s have a gander at the tech specs of this 3D-enabling beast:
* Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
* Processor: Intel® Core™ i7-13620H processor (Deca-core)
* Processor Speed: 2.40 GHz
* Processor Speed (turbo): 4.90 GHz
* Graphics Card: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4050 with 6 GB dedicated memory
* Display: 15.6” LED 3840 x 2160, 60 Hz IPS SpatialLabs glasses-free 3D screen
* Display Screen Tech: CineCrystal (Glare); In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology
* Memory: 16 GB, DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 1 TB SSD
* Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 AX203
* Built in Devices: Microphone, Webcam, Twin-speakers
* Interfaces/Ports: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 4 x USB, 1 x Kensington Lock
* Input: Backlit keyboard,TouchPad
* Battery: 57 Wh
* Color: Black
* Dimensions: 14.3 x 9.4 x 0.97 inches
* Weight (Approx): 5.11 lb
Inspire with the Aspire 3D 15
The Acer Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop excels as a tool for gaming, creation, and all-round multitasking. The laptop is kitted out with next-gen tech for seamless 3D rendering: state-of-the-art shading and driver tech bring game rendering to true-to-life depths. The addition of AI assistance accelerates conversion, as the system’s machine-learning models enable full auto, real time 2D to 3D conversion. SpatialLabs Model Viewer allows you to design models with your preferred modeling software, then bring them to life in 3D. For entertainment, SpatialLabs Go and SpatialLabs Player transform regular 2D content into immersive 3D spectacles.
The Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition’s display is a screen that simply must be seen. Ultra HD LED 3840 x 2160 spread across 15.6-inches of LED perfection delivers true to life color vibrancy and depth. This display runs the gamut of the colors of the rainbow, and more, with 100% Adobe RGB color gamut. And remember, the cinematic gaming and entertainment experiences and immersive design work will be coming to you in 3D thanks to SpatialLabs technology.
With all this talk of 3D rendering and gaming, did you pick the clock-rate of the Aspire 3D 15 up there in the tech-specs? In case you missed it, the 2.40 GHz processor speed that can be overclocked to 4.90 GHz might have you concerned about overheating. Fret not, for the Aspire 3D 15 has a pair of specially designed fans linked to a fine set of three copper heat pipes. This frosty twin air cooling solution dissipates the heat and keeps everything running smoothly, even when you’re pushing the limits of gaming or creation.
AI elevation for the Aspire nation
The Acer Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop is infused with AI solutions, designed to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary. These innovative AI features include the centralized generative assistance of Copilot, accessible via a single touch of the Copilot Key. Acer’s own suite of AI driven solutions can be easily accessed in the AcerSense app’s Experience Zone. These include Acer PurifiedView, a feature that helps you perfect your video conferencing with automatic framing, gaze correction, and advanced background blur. Acer PurifiedVoice cuts through the noise, using AI algorithms to locate and suppress background noise for engaging, immersive communications.
An intelligent choice
We hope that you’ve enjoyed immersing yourself in the SpatialLabs 3D experience with us today. Stereoscopic 3D tech gives you the power to see, game, and create in 3D, on a device that’s AI infused and ready for the future. If you’re ready to step into the light of portable 3D productivity, go find yourself an Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop, and see the world in 3D for yourself!
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Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut: A Guide to Mods, Best Armor, and Future Adventures
Ghost of Tsushima, developed by Sucker Punch Productions and released in July 2020, quickly became a hallmark of storytelling and gameplay in the action-adventure genre. Set in feudal Japan during the Mongol invasion, players assume the role of Jin Sakai, a samurai who must adapt his traditional warrior ways to combat the overwhelming forces threatening his homeland. Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the game was lauded for its stunning visuals, intricate combat system, and engaging narrative.
In August 2021, the Director's Cut was released, enhancing the original experience with significant additions. This version introduced the Iki Island expansion, which added new storylines, characters, and challenges, alongside various quality-of-life improvements and graphical enhancements that took advantage of next-gen hardware.
The Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC. The PC version, developed by Nixxes Software, was launched in May 2024, and supports ultrawide and super ultrawide displays such as the 57-inch Predator Z57 Gaming Monitor. This adaptation allows players to enjoy an expansive view of Tsushima's breathtaking landscapes and intricate details.
Ghost of Tsushima DLC
The Director's Cut features the Iki Island expansion, which significantly enhances the gameplay experience. This addition introduces players to a new area filled with diverse landscapes and fresh challenges. The narrative follows Jin as he confronts a new Mongol threat on Iki Island, while also grappling with his past and seeking to understand his identity as both a samurai and a ghost.
Iki Island includes new characters such as a mysterious shaman who plays a vital role in Jin's journey. Players will face unique enemies that require different strategies to defeat, adding depth to combat encounters. The expansion also introduces two new Mythic Tales—legendary quests that reward players with powerful armor sets and abilities.
https://youtu.be/Ne0ecXViJxg?si=auZPr294sVzCBeiU
Developer comments highlight their commitment to enriching the player's experience through this content. Patch notes reveal ongoing Ghost of Tsushima updates that address gameplay balance and introduce additional features based on community feedback. These updates ensure that both new players and veterans can enjoy an optimized experience.
Mods That Elevate the Experience
With the game's release on PC, the modding community has flourished, offering numerous ways to enhance the Ghost of Tsushima experience. Popular mods include visual enhancements like reshade mods that improve lighting and color saturation, making the already stunning graphics even more immersive.
Gameplay tweaks are also prevalent among Ghost of Tsushima mods. Players can modify difficulty settings or adjust combat mechanics to suit their preferences better. For instance, some mods allow for more forgiving parry timings or increased enemy AI responsiveness.
Cosmetic mods are another exciting aspect of this community. Players can find outfit reskins that allow Jin to do various styles inspired by different cultures or media. Custom armor sets can also be installed to give a unique flair to gameplay.
When installing mods, it's crucial to do so safely. Players should always back up their game files before making changes and download mods from reputable sources like Nexus Mods. Following installation guides carefully will help avoid conflicts that could disrupt gameplay.
Best Armor and Outfits for Every Playstyle
Selecting the right armor can significantly impact gameplay effectiveness based on individual playstyles. Here are some of Ghost of Tsushima’s best armor options:
* Samurai Clan Armor: Ideal for combat-heavy players who prefer direct confrontation. This armor increases health and provides damage resistance.
* Ghost Armor: Perfect for stealth-focused gameplay, this set enhances stealth capabilities and reduces enemy detection while providing bonuses for assassinations.
* Sarugami Armor: Unlocked by completing the Mythic Tale "The Legend of Black Hand Riku." It empowers players with a chain of three attacks on a perfect parry, encouraging riskier combat.
* Kensei Armor: Boosts Jin Sakai's Resolve gains (or his ability to heal and perform combat techniques) and enhances damage dealt by Ghost Weapons. Ideal for Ghost builds that depend on Resolve to inflict damage.
* Gosaku's Armor: Obtained by completing the Mythic Tale "The Unbreakable Gosaku," this set offers increased health and stagger damage, making it ideal for aggressive playstyles.
https://youtu.be/jj__stBJuMA?si=NXUIJk92aBvVwv6p
For those looking for unique Ghost of Tsushima outfits, completing specific quests or challenges unlocks special skins that offer aesthetic variety without altering gameplay mechanics.
Gameplay Tips
Newcomers to the game may find its expansive world daunting. Here are some practical Ghost of Tsushima tips:
* Combat Strategies: Mastering stances is key; each stance is effective against different enemy types. Switching stances mid-combat can turn the tide in challenging encounters.
* Timing: Learning enemy attack patterns allows players to time their parries effectively. Holding block while practicing can help develop muscle memory for successful counters.
* Exploration Hacks: To uncover hidden locations like hot springs or bamboo strikes, pay attention to visual cues in the environment—such as birds leading you toward points of interest.
* Resource Maximization: Collecting supplies is essential for upgrading gear and unlocking abilities and charms. Engage in side quests that reward you with resources while you explore.
While some players might consider using a Ghost of Tsushima cheat or two for exploration or resource gathering, it's essential to approach this ethically; cheats can diminish the sense of achievement that comes from overcoming challenges organically. For further assistance with strategies or tips on mastering gameplay mechanics, you might consider consulting a comprehensive Ghost of Tsushima guide. Available on YouTube and fan forums, these guides provide detailed walkthroughs and advice tailored for both beginners and advanced players.
The Future of Ghost of Tsushima
Exciting developments are on the horizon for fans of Ghost of Tsushima. A film adaptation is currently in production under director Chad Stahelski, known for his work on the John Wick movie series. The film aims to capture the essence of Jin Sakai's story while expanding on its lore.
Additionally, fans can expect a sequel titled Ghost of Yōtei, which has been announced for 2025. This upcoming game will feature a new protagonist, new quests in 1600s northern Japan, intricate character development, and enhanced gameplay mechanics.
Interested in more news and insights about gaming, artificial intelligence, and using tech in your personal and professional life? Subscribe to the Acer Corner Email Digest and get them delivered straight to your inbox.
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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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All Team-Up Abilities in Marvel Rivals
In Marvel Rivals, Team-Up abilities introduce a unique layer of strategy by leveraging the synergy between heroes to unlock enhanced powers and passive effects. These abilities are tied to specific pairings of characters, creating a dynamic relationship between Team-Up Holders and Team-Up Users.
The Team-Up Holder serves as the enabler, providing the special conditions or energy required to activate the ability. Meanwhile, the Team-Up User benefits from the enhanced powers or passive effects, significantly boosting their utility and effectiveness in combat.
Understanding these roles is essential to fully utilizing the potential of Team-Ups. Whether you’re coordinating aggressive dives, reinforcing defenses, or controlling objectives, mastering these abilities can turn the tide of battle and elevate your team’s performance to the next level. This guide explores all 15 Team-Up abilities currently available in the game, breaking down their effects, roles, and best use cases.
1. Ragnarok Rebirth (Hela + Thor/Loki)
The Ragnarok Rebirth Team-Up leverages Hela’s kills to sustain Thor and Loki, granting them bonus health or instant respawns. Hela’s current S-tier standing makes this synergy a competitive favorite.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Hela
* Team-Up Users: Thor and Loki
Abilities
Loki benefits from Laufeyson Reborn, gaining +50 bonus health per enemy defeated by Hela (up to 100). If Loki is defeated, he respawns at his death location after 1.5 seconds, bypassing the standard respawn timer. Thor gains similar benefits through Odinson Reborn, also receiving +50 bonus health per kill (up to 100) or respawning after 1.5 seconds if eliminated.
How to Use
Focus on Hela to secure kills and trigger the health and respawn mechanics for Thor and Loki. Leverage the instant respawns to maintain constant battlefield pressure and protect critical zones. This trio excels in objective-based scenarios where prolonged combat and survivability are key.
2. Metallic Chaos (Scarlet Witch + Magneto)
The Metallic Chaos Team-Up allows Scarlet Witch to empower Magneto’s greatsword with Chaos Energy, transforming him into a hybrid damage-dealer with devastating melee and ranged attacks.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Scarlet Witch
* Team-Up User: Magneto
Abilities
Magneto gains access to Metallic Fusion, an ability that enchants his greatsword for 10 seconds. During this time, melee strikes deal 30 damage, and ranged slashes deal 55 damage, traveling at a speed of 80 m/s. The enhanced attacks have a 3-meter melee radius and a 30-second cooldown.
How to Use
Activate Metallic Fusion during critical moments to deliver burst damage to priority or clustered targets. Position Magneto aggressively to capitalize on his increased range and damage output while ensuring Scarlet Witch stays protected to maintain the Team-Up’s availability.
3. Planet X Pals (Groot + Rocket Raccoon/Jeff the Land Shark)
The Planet X Pals Team-Up highlights Groot’s supportive role by allowing Rocket or Jeff to ride on his shoulders, reducing incoming damage and providing excellent defensive synergy.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Groot
* Team-Up Users: Rocket Raccoon and Jeff the Land Shark
Abilities
The Friendly Shoulder ability lets Rocket or Jeff ride on Groot, gaining 35% damage reduction while within a 12-meter range. The rider can dismount anytime by pressing Shift, allowing for repositioning and flexibility during engagements.
How to Use
Deploy Friendly Shoulder to protect Rocket or Jeff from heavy fire, particularly in engagements where they are primary targets. Groot’s natural durability complements this ability, creating a mobile defensive combination. Ensure Groot stays in safe positions to maximize the utility of the damage reduction.
4. Symbiote Bond (Venom + Spider-Man/Peni Parker)
The Symbiote Bond Team-Up enables Venom to share his symbiote energy with Spider-Man and Peni Parker, granting them powerful area-of-effect abilities with defensive benefits.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Venom
* Team-Up Users: Spider-Man and Peni Parker
Abilities
Spider-Man gains Suit Expulsion, creating a 5-meter field that deals 50 damage per second and pushes back enemies. This ability lasts for 4 seconds and has a 30-second cooldown. Peni Parker gains Armor Expulsion, which also creates a 5-meter field but provides an additional 50% damage reduction during its activation. The ability deals 50 damage per second, lasts 4 seconds, and has a 30-second cooldown.
How to Use
Use these abilities to control the battlefield by disrupting enemy formations and forcing repositioning. Peni’s Armor Expulsion makes her ideal for tanking damage while maintaining consistent area damage, while Spider-Man’s Suit Expulsion can scatter grouped enemies, creating openings for your team. Coordinate with Venom’s presence to ensure consistent utility.
5. Gamma Charge (Hulk + Doctor Strange/Iron Man)
The Gamma Charge Team-Up empowers Doctor Strange and Iron Man by infusing their abilities with Hulk's gamma radiation, enhancing their damage and utility significantly.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Hulk
* Team-Up Users: Doctor Strange and Iron Man
Abilities
Doctor Strange’s Gamma Maelstrom enhances Maelstrom of Madness, creating a 10-meter spherical field that deals 1.4 damage per point of Dark Magic. At maximum charge, the ability nullifies the Anti-Heal debuff, allowing full healing potential. It has an 8-second cooldown.
Iron Man’s Gamma Overdrive amplifies Armor Overdrive, increasing its performance for 10 seconds with a 20-second cooldown, making it a reliable tool for consistent burst damage.
How to Use
Maximize Doctor Strange’s Gamma Maelstrom by building Dark Magic to its peak for devastating damage and sustained healing. Use Iron Man’s Gamma Overdrive during critical team fights or defensive plays to enhance his hybrid role. Coordinate engagements to ensure Hulk’s presence and capitalize on the synergy for prolonged effectiveness.
6. Ammo Overload (Rocket Raccoon + Punisher/Winter Soldier)
The Ammo Overload Team-Up showcases Rocket Raccoon’s engineering prowess, enabling The Punisher and Winter Soldier to gain infinite ammo and faster fire rates within a buffed radius.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Rocket Raccoon
* Team-Up Users: The Punisher and Winter Soldier
Abilities
Rocket Raccoon deploys an Ammo Overload Device that grants allies within its 10-meter radius infinite ammo and increased fire rates for 12 seconds, with a 45-second cooldown. The Punisher’s Infinite Punishment provides a 67% fire rate boost, while Winter Soldier’s Infinite Grit offers a 25% fire rate boost.
How to Use
Position the Ammo Overload Device strategically in high-pressure zones to allow Punisher and Winter Soldier to maximize its buffs. Focus on The Punisher for maximum impact due to his high fire rate boost, while Winter Soldier excels in sustained fights with infinite ammo. Time the ability during team fights to overwhelm enemies with superior DPS.
7. Dimensional Shortcut (Magik + Black Panther/Psylocke)
Overview
The Dimensional Shortcut Team-Up allows Black Panther and Psylocke to rewind time through Magik’s connection to Limbo, restoring health and enabling strategic repositioning.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Magik
* Team-Up Users: Black Panther and Psylocke
Abilities
Black Panther’s Wakandan Master and Psylocke’s Psionic Disc allow them to rewind 5 seconds to a previous position and restore 50% of health lost during that time. Both abilities share a 30-second cooldown, making them reliable tools for survival and aggressive plays.
How to Use
Utilize the rewind mechanic to engage aggressively and escape safely, minimizing risks during dives. Activate the ability after taking significant damage to regain health and reposition strategically. Ensure Magik’s safety, as her presence is crucial for enabling this synergy.
8. Guardian Revival (Adam Warlock + Star-Lord/Mantis)
The Guardian Revival Team-Up grants Star-Lord and Mantis a powerful resurrection mechanic through Adam Warlock’s cocooning power, allowing them to return to battle after death.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Adam Warlock
* Team-Up Users: Star-Lord and Mantis
Abilities
Mantis gains Nature’s Soul, allowing her to enter a cocooned state upon death, where she can freely move her soul to select a safe revival spot. Star-Lord’s Leader’s Soul provides a similar mechanic, granting him a free-flight state for strategic repositioning. Both abilities have a 120-second cooldown.
How to Use
Revive strategically by selecting safe positions to re-enter combat without immediately being targeted. Use Mantis’s revival to continue supporting allies, while Star-Lord can leverage his free-flight state to flank or reposition aggressively. Protect Adam Warlock, as his survival ensures this powerful mechanic remains available.
9. Chilling Charisma (Luna Snow + Namor/Jeff the Land Shark)
The Chilling Charisma Team-Up infuses Namor and Jeff the Land Shark with Luna Snow’s ice energy, granting them crowd control and consistent damage, making this synergy effective for disrupting enemy strategies.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Luna Snow
* Team-Up Users: Namor and Jeff the Land Shark
Abilities
Namor gains Frozen Spawn, summoning icy turrets that fire projectiles, dealing 25 damage and slowing enemies by 25% for 1 second. Each turret lasts 10 seconds with a 20-second cooldown and a max of two turrets. Jeff gains Frozen Spitball, a projectile that creates a slowing zone upon impact, dealing 30 projectile damage and 40 field damage while reducing enemy movement by 15% for 3 seconds.
How to Use
Use Namor’s Frozen Spawn to zone enemies and protect objectives, while Jeff’s Frozen Spitball creates disruption in choke points. Combine their abilities to layer crowd control, slowing enemy advances and maintaining control over high-value zones.
10. Voltaic Union (Thor + Storm/Captain America)
The Voltaic Union Team-Up empowers Storm and Captain America with Thor’s Thorforce, granting them electrifying enhancements for both offensive and defensive capabilities.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Thor
* Team-Up Users: Storm and Captain America
Abilities
Storm gains Charged Gale, a lightning bolt that bounces between up to three enemies, dealing 50 damage per strike within a 60-meter range, with a 20-second cooldown. Captain America gains Charged Aegis, electrifying his shield for 50 damage per hit (ricocheting once at half damage), while gaining a movement speed boost of 1 m/s for 6 seconds, also with a 20-second cooldown.
How to Use
Use Storm’s lightning barrage to target clustered enemies and disrupt formations. Captain America’s Charged Aegis allows for both engagement and disengagement with added mobility. Combine their abilities to control team fights and maintain flexibility in engagements.
11. Atlas Bond (Iron Fist + Luna Snow)
The Atlas Bond Team-Up channels Iron Fist’s Chi into Luna Snow, enhancing her ice powers with defensive and supportive utility, making it a strong choice for survival-focused strategies.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Iron Fist
* Team-Up User: Luna Snow
Abilities
Luna Snow gains Frozen Chi, creating a 10-meter frost field that deals 25 damage, slows enemies by 20% for 2 seconds, and heals allies for 50 HP. The ability also knocks back enemies and has a 20-second cooldown.
How to Use
Use Frozen Chi to slow and damage advancing enemies while healing nearby allies. Position Luna Snow at the center of engagements to maximize the frost field’s effects, creating space for teammates and disrupting enemy dives.
12. ESU Alumnus (Spider-Man + Squirrel Girl)
The ESU Alumnus Team-Up equips Squirrel Girl with a web bomb from Spider-Man, providing area-of-effect damage and crowd control, making it a strong pick for disrupting grouped enemies.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Spider-Man
* Team-Up User: Squirrel Girl
Abilities
Squirrel Girl gains Webbed Acorn, a projectile that creates a 4-meter radius spell field upon impact, dealing 80 damage and ensnaring enemies for 1 second. It has a 20-second cooldown.
How to Use
Use Webbed Acorn to disrupt grouped enemies and lock them in place, enabling follow-up damage. Aim for high-traffic zones or key targets, and coordinate with Spider-Man’s mobility for maximum battlefield control.
13. Lunar Force (Cloak & Dagger + Moon Knight)
The Lunar Force Team-Up imbues Moon Knight with light and dark energy from Cloak & Dagger, allowing him to create a realm of invisibility for tactical repositioning.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Cloak & Dagger
* Team-Up User: Moon Knight
Abilities
Moon Knight gains Full Moon, creating a 4-meter radius field where he becomes invisible for 6 seconds. The invisibility ends if he takes damage and has a 30-second cooldown.
How to Use
Use Full Moon to flank enemies or escape dangerous situations. Time the ability to initiate fights from unexpected angles or reposition during engagements. Coordinate with Cloak & Dagger’s supportive abilities for maximum survivability.
14. Fastball Special (Hulk + Wolverine)
The Fastball Special Team-Up allows Hulk to hurl Wolverine into combat, creating a disruptive and high-impact initiation. This ability is ideal for aggressive plays, enabling Wolverine to engage quickly and wreak havoc in the enemy’s ranks.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Hulk
* Team-Up User: Wolverine
Abilities
Hulk and Wolverine can interact using Gamma Fastball. Once both players confirm, Hulk lifts Wolverine and hurls him up to 20 meters. Hulk has 5 seconds to aim the throw. If Wolverine is not hurled, the cooldown resets after 3 seconds; otherwise, it has a 15-second cooldown following the throw.
How to Use
Coordinate closely between Hulk and Wolverine to ensure the ability is used effectively. Aim Hulk’s throw to place Wolverine in the heart of the action, targeting enemy backlines or clustered teams. Wolverine can follow up with melee attacks to capitalize on the chaos caused by his sudden arrival. This Team-Up thrives in aggressive, dive-focused compositions where rapid engagement and disruption are crucial. Timing and communication between players are essential to maximize its effectiveness.
15. Allied Agents (Hawkeye + Black Widow)
The Allied Agents Team-Up grants Black Widow access to Hawkeye’s Hunter’s Sight, enabling her to target and damage afterimages of enemies. This synergy enhances Black Widow’s precision and damage output, making her a more reliable DPS option.
Roles
* Team-Up Holder: Hawkeye
* Team-Up User: Black Widow
Abilities
Black Widow gains Supersensory Hunt, which creates afterimages of enemies within her line of sight. These afterimages are generated every 0.5 seconds, last for 3 seconds, and can be damaged by Black Widow during the ability's 8-second duration. The ability has a 30-second cooldown, and the afterimages cannot be critically hit.
How to Use
Use Supersensory Hunt to improve Black Widow’s accuracy and damage output, particularly against evasive or fast-moving targets. This ability is most effective when targeting enemies in motion, as the generated afterimages provide a clearer shot. Pair Black Widow with Hawkeye in scenarios where precision and consistent damage are critical, and position Hawkeye safely to maintain the Team-Up’s availability. This synergy excels in skirmishes where controlled, consistent output can turn the tide of battle.
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Most Hyped Trailer from the Game Awards 2024
The Game Awards 2024 was packed with excitement, featuring some of the most thrilling game trailers we’ve seen this year. From long-awaited sequels to bold new stories, the event gave players plenty to look forward to. Whether you love epic adventures, fast-paced action, or unique worlds, these trailers showcased the future of gaming. Here’s a look at the most talked-about reveals that have everyone excited.
1. Elden Ring: NightReign
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Djtsw5k_DNc
Elden Ring: Nightreign, a standalone cooperative multiplayer roguelike spin-off from From Software, is set to release in 2025 on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms, with a Network Test for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S players in early 2025. Directed by Junya Ishizaki, the game is set in Limveld, a variant of Limgrave, where players face the Nightlord and other foes, including familiar enemies from previous Souls titles. Nightreign features eight playable classes, randomized loot, roguelike mechanics, and cross-generation but no cross-platform multiplayer. Players can embark on three-player runs that culminate in major boss battles and earn currency for character customization and relic upgrades. The game promises a blend of classic Souls elements and fresh cooperative gameplay innovations.
2. Witcher 4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54dabgZJ5YA
The Witcher 4, the highly anticipated sequel in CD Projekt Red's renowned RPG series, will feature Ciri as the protagonist, beginning a new trilogy set after the events of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Currently in full development with Unreal Engine 5, the game promises a story-driven, open-world experience with expansive possibilities for exploration and character progression. The trilogy's first installment is still years away, with no confirmed release date, but it has been described as the studio's "most advanced" project. Fans can expect new Witcher lore, such as the Lynx School, alongside familiar elements like Geralt's possible cameo. CDPR has also assured that the game will not be exclusive to any storefront, signaling widespread availability upon release.
3. Borderlands 4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8CaRnf0zO0
Borderlands 4, set for release in 2025, marks a new chapter in Gearbox Software's looter-shooter franchise, introducing an all-new planet, four new Vault Hunters, and enhanced RPG elements. The game, which will launch on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X (excluding last-gen consoles), continues the series' signature blend of humor, action, and treasure hunting. Gearbox has teased a balance between approachability and depth, with the new Vault Hunters fulfilling archetypal roles like "soldier" and "mage." Developed over several years and published by 2K Games, Borderlands 4 promises fresh gameplay while staying true to the franchise’s roots, as showcased in its cinematic and gameplay trailers revealed during The Game Awards 2024.
4. Okami Sequal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSoZgCCxyQc
Capcom has officially announced a sequel to Okami, with a visually stunning teaser trailer revealed during The Game Awards 2024, featuring Amaterasu’s return in her iconic wolf form. Directed by Hideki Kamiya, the sequel promises to evolve the series’ beloved Celestial Brush mechanics, potentially incorporating innovative control features for modern consoles, including the rumored Nintendo Switch successor. The game’s art style appears to shift toward softer, painterly visuals while maintaining its signature storytelling elements of restoration and rebirth. While no release date or platforms have been confirmed, the sequel is expected to embrace modern hardware capabilities, potentially offering a more seamless open-world design and dynamic gameplay. Capcom's revival of the franchise under Kamiya’s leadership reflects a renewed commitment to honoring the legacy of Okami and delivering a creative, unforgettable experience.
5. Mafia: Old Country
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdnmrHadUdo
Mafia: The Old Country, launching in Summer 2025, serves as a prequel to the Mafia trilogy, exploring the origins of organized crime in 1900s Sicily. Developed by Hangar 13, the game will feature a more linear, narrative-driven experience compared to the open-world structure of Mafia 3, with a focus on authenticity, including fully localized Sicilian voice acting. Players will navigate the fictional town of San Celeste, engaging in knife and gun combat, high-speed vehicle chases, and initiation rituals. Revealed through cinematic trailers at Gamescom 2024 and The Game Awards 2024, the game is set to release on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, promising rich storytelling and a gritty action-adventure experience.
6. Onimusha: Way of the Sword
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xQa_iW958E
Onimusha: Way of the Sword is set to release in February 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, marking the series' return after nearly 20 years. Set in Edo-era Kyoto, the game follows a samurai wielding the Oni Gauntlet to combat demonic Genma amidst a land corrupted by Malice. The gameplay retains the series' signature elements, including the Issen parry system and the collection of souls to empower the protagonist, with hints of the Oni transformation mechanic returning. While the story teaser was minimal, fans can expect a blend of melee combat, survival horror elements, and rich feudal Japanese settings, staying true to the franchise’s roots.
7. Slay the Spire 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krDFltgjLtE
Slay the Spire 2, set to release in 2025 with an Early Access launch on PC, MacOS, and Linux, brings back beloved roguelike gameplay with new twists. Set 1,000 years after the original, the game features returning characters Ironclad and Silent, alongside a new slayer, The Necrobinder, with hints that other familiar faces like Defect may return. Built on the Godot engine, the sequel introduces updated mechanics, new cards, and enhanced visuals, with Mega Crit hiring dedicated art and animation staff to elevate the experience. The game will launch without microtransactions and is expected to expand its roster and content during Early Access. Fans can anticipate fresh challenges, an evolved art style, and an expanded story as they climb the Spire once more.
8. Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLGy63pt9vA
Naughty Dog's upcoming sci-fi adventure, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, was unveiled at The Game Awards 2024, marking a departure from the studio's previous works like The Last of Us and Uncharted. The game follows bounty hunter Jordan A. Mun, voiced by Tati Gabrielle, as she ventures to the perilous planet Sempiria to capture a target named Colin Graves, played by Kumail Nanjiani, hinting at a personal connection. Set on a mysterious and dangerous alien world, Intergalactic promises a character-driven narrative structured like a TV series, with a focus on emotional depth and rich storytelling. While gameplay details remain scarce, a brief trailer highlights melee combat and hints at ambitious mechanics, with Naughty Dog claiming it will feature their "deepest gameplay" to date. With development ongoing since 2020, no release date has been confirmed, but the game is expected to be a major, immersive addition to Naughty Dog's portfolio.
9. The Outerworlds 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClhDyC0ZECs
The Outer Worlds 2, set to release in 2025, is Obsidian Entertainment's follow-up to its acclaimed sci-fi RPG, bringing players to a new star system with a fresh crew while retaining the series' signature humor and gameplay style. Exclusive to Xbox Series X and PC, the game will launch on Xbox Game Pass and promises to be twice the size of its predecessor, featuring expanded environments, new weapons, and enhanced combat mechanics. Revealed during The Game Awards 2024 with a gameplay trailer, the sequel showcases fast-paced shooting, cover-based combat, and stunning alien landscapes, while hinting at an expanded narrative and deeper companion interactions. Fans can expect more of what made the original a standout, with a larger scope and new adventures in a brand-new setting.
10. Virtual Fighter 6
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmeGL2JP9N0
Virtua Fighter 6, revealed during The Game Awards 2024, marks the long-awaited return of Sega's iconic fighting franchise after nearly 20 years. While no release date or platforms have been confirmed, the game is in development, with gameplay footage suggesting a continuation of the series' grounded 3D fighting style focused on combos and positioning. Featuring an older Akira and a new character named Stella, the game aims to innovate while staying true to its roots, with development led by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and supported by original series developers. Fans can look forward to fresh elements in this classic series revival.
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The Future of Meeting Notes: Why Read AI Leads the Pack
Meeting notes are essential for tracking decisions, assigning tasks, and keeping teams aligned, but taking notes manually is often time-consuming and prone to errors. Enter Read AI: a cutting-edge tool that automates notetaking, generates concise summaries, and highlights next steps. Designed to integrate with popular platforms like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, Read AI is revolutionizing how professionals manage meeting documentation.
What is Read AI and Why Does It Stand Out
At its core, Read AI is an intelligent meeting assistant that automates notetaking and transforms raw discussions into actionable insights. Unlike traditional methods, where participants rely on manual notes or scattered recordings, Read AI uses advanced algorithms to capture and structure meeting content efficiently.
Key Features of Read AI:
Real-time transcription: Instantly convert spoken words into text during meetings, ensuring nothing is missed.
AI summary generator: Create concise summaries that include key points, decisions made, and action items.
Actionable insights: Identify follow-up tasks and responsibilities, making post-meeting collaboration more effective.
Imagine this scenario: During a Zoom meeting, Read AI transcribes the conversation in real time, marks critical points as they happen, and delivers a polished summary at the end. Team members can focus on contributing to the discussion rather than worrying about capturing every detail.
Read AI is designed for modern teams, offering tools that adapt to a variety of workflows, from brainstorming sessions to client calls, making it indispensable for today’s professionals.
Benefits of AI-Powered Meeting Notes
The introduction of tools like Read AI has transformed meeting documentation, offering benefits that extend beyond just saving time. One major advantage is the increased accuracy and consistency these tools provide. By reducing the risk of human error, AI ensures that every critical detail and decision is accurately captured, creating reliable records for future reference.
AI-powered notes also improve collaboration by producing concise, well-structured summaries that can be easily shared among team members. This helps build better alignment, ensuring everyone stays on the same page and can contribute more effectively to ongoing projects. Tools like Read AI aren’t just streamlining processes—they’re enhancing how teams communicate.
Consider a project kickoff meeting where Read AI records discussions, assigns action points to team members, and generates a summary that’s immediately shareable. This level of efficiency helps teams move forward faster and with greater clarity.
By automating tedious tasks, Read AI enables professionals to focus on creativity, strategy, and collaboration—areas where human expertise truly shines.
The Future of AI-Driven Notetaking
As AI technology continues to evolve, tools like Read AI are becoming even more intelligent and adaptable, fundamentally changing how meetings are managed and how collaboration unfolds. Recent advancements, such as the integration of Read AI for Gmail, demonstrate how AI can seamlessly connect meeting and message data, enhancing workflows across multiple platforms.
Read AI already integrates with tools like Asana and Trello through platforms like Zapier, enabling automated workflows for assigning tasks and organizing projects. However, the potential for deeper, native integrations is significant. These would eliminate the need for third-party connectors, providing a streamlined experience where tasks and deadlines are automatically created and synchronized directly within project management platforms.
Beyond task automation, future iterations of Read AI could focus on personalized insights, tailoring meeting notes and summaries to individual participants. By focusing on role-specific decisions and action items, this feature would streamline communication and ensure everyone receives relevant updates.
Advancements in sentiment analysis could further enhance collaboration by assessing the tone of discussions, identifying areas of concern and encouraging proactive conflict resolution. Predictive analytics might take AI notetaking a step further by flagging unresolved issues or suggesting actionable next steps based on meeting content.
Pioneering the Next Era of Collaboration
Looking further ahead, AI notetaking might evolve to become a central hub for collaboration, combining data from various tools and platforms into a unified experience. AI assistants like Read AI could become the nexus of workplace communication, integrating everything from meeting insights to email replies and project management tasks into a real-time, cohesive system tailored to individual workflows. As these innovations unfold, the lines between meetings, messages, and tasks will blur, creating an advanced productivity experience powered by AI.
If you're looking to stay ahead of these trends and maximize your productivity, consider exploring innovative devices like the Acer Swift Go 14 AI Laptop, which offers the performance needed to run AI tools. To dive deeper into the latest advancements in AI and productivity, subscribe to the Acer Corner email digest for expert insights and updates.
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About Maxine Sheppard: Maxine is a writer and editor who specializes in topics ranging from travel, tech and music to wildlife and design. When not writing, you might find her driving through a national park with the radio on loud.
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2025's Hottest Survival Games: 7 Must-Play Titles on PC
With their unique blend of resource management, exploration, and intense challenges, survival games have become a significant genre in the gaming landscape. They often place players in hostile environments where they must gather resources, build shelters, and fend off threats to survive. The appeal of the best survival games lies in their immersive gameplay and the sense of achievement that comes from overcoming adversity. Players enjoy the freedom to craft their own narratives, making choices that can lead to vastly different outcomes.
Many gamers prefer playing survival games on PC rather than consoles for several reasons. PCs typically offer superior graphics and performance capabilities, allowing for a more visually stunning experience. Additionally, the flexibility of modding on PC can enhance gameplay significantly, providing new content and features that are often unavailable on consoles. The ability to customize controls and settings further contributes to a more tailored gaming experience. For PC players, powerful computers like the Predator Orion Gaming Desktop ensure smooth performance and crisp visuals, as well as a future-proof gaming setup.
Best Survival Games 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, the survival genre has delivered standout titles that pushed the boundaries of innovation. Pacific Drive, from Ironwood Studios, sets players in the eerie Olympic Exclusion Zone, where managing a vehicle becomes a lifeline against environmental hazards and surreal threats. With its blend of atmospheric storytelling and unique mechanics, it's no surprise that the game won the Best Gameplay award at the BIG Festival in June 2024. Another highly popular title, Endnight Games' Sons of the Forest, builds on its predecessor with adaptive AI-driven enemies and tense gameplay, earning a nomination in the 2024 Steam Awards' Better with Friends category.
City-building enthusiasts were drawn to Frostpunk 2, the highly anticipated sequel from 11 Bit Studios. Released in September, the game expanded on the survival mechanics of its predecessor, challenging players to make morally complex decisions in a frozen wasteland. Frostpunk 2 earned Best Gameplay honors at the 2024 Gamescom Awards and was named Best Sim/Strategy Game at the Game Awards 2024. Together, these titles highlight the survival genre’s evolution, offering unforgettable experiences for a diverse range of players.
7 Must-Play PC Survival Games in 2025
Looking ahead to the coming year, several new PC survival games are generating excitement among gamers:
1. Aloft
https://youtu.be/4XQxVjT6Az4?si=QV_R0zGK68UcD92J
Developed by Astrolabe Interactive and published by Funcom, Aloft is set to launch in Early Access on January 15, 2025. This cooperative sandbox survival game transports players to a colorful world of floating islands, where they can build and customize their own skyships. Players will navigate through serene and stormy skies, gathering resources while cleansing the islands' ecosystems from corruption.
The game allows up to eight players to collaborate, creating vibrant airborne villages that light up the night sky. Unique mechanics include crafting sails and navigating wind currents, enhancing the exploration experience. As players progress, they can unlock new biomes, challenges, and items to craft. With a solid foundation already established through demos, Aloft is poised to be an exciting addition to the best PC survival games lineup for 2025.
2. Atomfall
Scheduled for release on multiple platforms on March 27, 2025, Atomfall is a single-player survival-action game from Rebellion Developments. It's set in an eerie world influenced by post-World War II themes, real-life events, and classic British science fiction, and players must navigate through dark environments filled with danger and mystery. The gameplay combines exploration, crafting, and intense combat as players uncover clues and face off against hostile entities.
Players can utilize a metal detector to unearth hidden treasures while crafting weapons and items essential for survival. The game features light roleplaying game (RPG) elements that allow players to define their character through interactions with nonplayable characters (NPCs) and skill trees. The Deluxe Edition offers additional content such as exclusive weapons and early access to expansions.
3. The Alters
https://youtu.be/IiDOlqALAN4?si=DHSr7w1Q5nvVTwwb%20
The Alters, developed by 11 Bit Studios, is set to launch in the first quarter of 2025 after a slight delay from its original November 2024 schedule. Players take on the role of Jan Dolski, who crash-lands on a hostile planet and must manage a high-tech mobile base designed for a crew he doesn't have. This multiplatform game introduces a unique mechanic where Jan can create alternate versions of himself—known as Alters—by making pivotal decisions from his past. Each Alter possesses distinct skills and personalities that impact gameplay dynamics and relationships within the base.
Players must pay attention to resource management while balancing interpersonal conflicts among the Alters as they strive for survival. The narrative explores themes of choice and consequence, adding depth to the gameplay experience. The Alters demo is already available on PC and can be downloaded via Steam.
4. Dune: Awakening
https://youtu.be/Ud3EW5aAUZ8?si=LMJlE9qOGo8dPREE
Set in the iconic universe of Frank Herbert's Dune series of science fiction novels, Dune: Awakening is an open-world survival massively multiplayer online (MMO) developed by Funcom that's expected to launch on PC in early 2025. Players customize their characters as they crash-land on the desert planet of Arrakis, facing extreme environmental challenges such as heatstroke and thirst. Survival hinges on resource management as players battle against harsh conditions while competing for control over valuable spice resources with other players.
The game incorporates base-building mechanics and allows players to form guilds for cooperative play against both environmental threats and rival factions. Giant sandworms add an additional layer of danger as they can be summoned during gameplay.
5. The Last of Us Part II Remastered
Naughty Dog's critically acclaimed The Last of Us Part II Remastered arrives on PC on April 3, 2025. This remastered version enhances the original's visuals with higher resolution textures, improved character models, and support for ultrawide displays like the 49" EI1 UltraWide Curved Entertainment Monitor. Players will experience Ellie and Abby’s gripping narrative with new gameplay features that include a roguelike survival mode titled "No Return," which introduces permadeath mechanics and randomized encounters for added replayability.
The remaster also optimizes performance across various hardware configurations, ensuring smooth gameplay at high frame rates. Additionally, players can expect new accessibility options such as Speech to Vibrations and Descriptive Audio. This release not only brings one of PlayStation's most beloved titles to a wider audience but also showcases how PC gaming can elevate storytelling through advanced graphics and performance enhancements.
6. Polyaris
https://youtu.be/1Egyg-Q_qR0?si=lhr8KBn0DN_rfJLr
Polyaris, developed by Norwegian indie studio Magic Pie Games, invites players into an icy, post-apocalyptic world where they must survive against extreme cold and hostile wildlife while uncovering secrets buried beneath the snow. Set for release by the end of summer 2025, this first-person, single-player title emphasizes crafting tools and building shelters from available resources while exploring frozen wastelands filled with challenges. Players will need to manage their warmth levels carefully while making their way through treacherous environments teeming with dangers such as aggressive creatures or harsh weather conditions. The game's art style combines realism with stylized elements that enhance immersion in its frigid landscape.
7. Cairn
https://youtu.be/Q4In8-k2A-I?si=lTm1iQNJne7q24ag
From The Game Bakers, another independent studio, comes Cairn, a groundbreaking survival climber that focuses on realistic climbing mechanics. Players must carefully plan their ascents on treacherous Mount Kami while managing limited resources like pitons, which are essential for climbing success. This open-world survival adventure emphasizes exploration as players discover hidden paths and face environmental challenges that test their skills at every turn. With eye-catching visuals powered by Unity technology, Cairn showcases breathtaking, almost surreal landscapes alongside intense survival elements.
With such a diverse lineup of anticipated computer survival games set for release in 2025, players can expect innovative gameplay experiences that’ll keep them engaged for hours on end as they navigate challenging environments of danger and discovery.
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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 Swift X 16 Review: Powerful Performance and Stunning Design for Creators and Professionals
With captivating color and crystal clear clarity, the Acer Swift X 16 laptop offers outstanding performance capabilities for creators and professionals. The 3.2K 120Hz OLED display, exceptional color grading, and image quality will delight users with stunning color accuracy. Weighing just 1.9 kg (4.18 lbs), the Acer Swift X 16 is made for makers, offering cinema-grade industry-standard video editing with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. It is also professionally calibrated and certified by TÜV Rheinland to balance blue light limitations and minimize eye strain. This lets creators continue doing what they do best without causing additional damage to their eyes.
The Acer Swift X 16 makes the future possible now with a dedicated AI engine, offering a brand-new AI experience with AMD Ryzen™ AI. Users can browse, create, and play with dependable performance at up to 8 cores and 16 threads, while the AI engine frees up the processor to multitask and keep running at lightning speed. With 1TB of SSD storage and 16 GB of installed memory, users can experience quicker data transfers, low latency, and faster load times.
Features
Alongside speedy load times, AI capabilities, and excellent color quality, the Acer Swift X 16 also offers the following features.
1. TwinAir cooling and enhanced battery life
The Acer Swift X 16 includes a redesigned thermal arrangement, allowing it to be fitted with a 36% larger battery and TwinAir cooling. Users can benefit from impressive thermal performance and a longer battery life, so they can focus on creating and designing without their device overheating. Twin stereo ring fans dissipate heat throughout dual D6 copper heat pipes, ensuring accurate and controlled heat dissipation. Users can choose from four different fan speeds, Silent, Normal, Performance, and Turbo, depending on their usage requirements, boosting airflow by up to 42%.
2. Advanced video calling capabilities
Acer’s TNR technology provides high-quality imagery in low-light conditions, allowing professionals to continue working day and night. The Acer Swift X 16 also includes Acer PurifiedView™ and PurifiedVoice™ with AI Noise Reduction, ensuring high-quality visuals on the 1080p FHD camera and clear sound during video calls. Automatic framing puts users front and center, helping them appear more engaging and natural during online meetings. Moreover, AI-assisted gaze correction automatically adjusts the user’s eye angle, helping them maintain steady eye contact with their video call partner.
3. NVIDIA® studio exclusive features
Creators can take their creative endeavors to the next level with NVIDIA® Studio. With RTX and AI acceleration in top creative apps, NVIDIA® Studio drivers for maximum stability, and a whole host of exclusive tools like Omniverse, Canvas, and Broadcast. With the Acer Swift X 16 and exclusive content from the NVIDIA® Studio, artists can breathe life into their ideas faster than ever before.
Specifications
* Operating system: Windows 11 Home
* Processor model: AMD Ryzen™ 9 7940HS
* Processor speed: 4.0 GHz
* Processor core: Octa-core (8 Core™)
* GPU: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 4050 graphics
* Graphics memory capacity: 6 GB
* Total installed memory: 16 GB
* Total solid state drive capacity: 1 TB
* Bluetooth: 5.2
* Interfaces / ports: HDMI x 1, USB 3.2 Gen x 1, 3.2 Gen 2 (USB Type-C) x 1, Thunderbolt™ 4 (USB 3.2) x 2
* Keyboard features: Backlit keyboard with OceanGlassTM Touchpad
* Maximum battery run time: 10 hours
* Screen resolution: 3200 x 2000
* Height: 0.7 inches (1.778 cm)
* Width: 14.02 inches (35.61 cm)
* Depth: 9.81 inches (24.91 cm)
* Weight (approx): 4.35 lbs (1.97 kg)
Power, productivity, and precision: the Acer Swift X 16
If you are searching for a powerful laptop to support your creative side, look no further. The Acer Swift X 16 is the best laptop for creators and designers, offering outstanding features like a larger battery and AI functions for enhanced performance. At just 17.9 mm (0.70 inches), the stunning device is easily transportable while users dash between the studio, office, and home. The Acer design team has meticulously built the Acer Swift X 16 with productivity, accessibility, and precision in mind, making it the ideal companion for creators and professionals. Get yours today at the Acer online store.
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How to Play Phone Games on PC
Smartphones, the pocket sized mini-computers the world has grown to love are everywhere nowadays. With over 9 out of every 10 Americans owning one, they are integral to our daily lives. From contacting friends, family, and colleagues, to social media, banking, music streaming, and even health monitoring, the uses we’ve found for these handy devices are myriad!
Smartphones share many of the characteristics of your PC, and it's no surprise that phone games are super popular among people of all ages. Since the early days playing Snake on old school Nokias, to Call of Duty: Mobile, and Candy Crush Saga, there’s a game for everyone.
Today we’re not reviewing phone games. For serious phone gamers, the natural evolution of gaming on your phone screen is to take the game to a bigger screen, namely your PC. In this article we’ll furnish you with the lowdown on why you might want to play phone games on a computer, then provide a step by step guide on how to play phone games on your PC. Read on, and put your phone down while you get stuck in to phone gaming on your PC!
Why play phone games on a computer?
The burning question, is it not? Your phone is a perfectly good device, it’s got you this far in your phone game exploits, so why make the switch to play cell phone games on PC? There are actually some great benefits to transferring your phone gaming to a PC. Let’s have a look at the top four improvements we’ve noticed after making the switch to PC:
Improved performance. Whether you use a laptop or desktop, chances are that your trusty PC has hardware that outguns your diminutive smartphone. A more powerful processor (CPU), graphics card (GPU), and far greater RAM mean that your PC can run your phone games smoother, at faster speeds, and with less lags than on your smartphone. This translates to better gaming performance for you, the player, meaning abundant victories await!
Beat the heat, save your phone. We’ve all been there, stuck in the thick of the action, trying to run a graphically demanding game on our smartphone. As the game progresses, the battery level gets lower and lower, while the phone gets so hot you’re worried the battery might melt! Transfer these gaming odysseys to your PC and you most likely won’t need to worry about overheating, which can seriously shorten the lifespan of your phone’s battery. Another plus: your phone stays free to receive messages and calls while you game.
Control. To play your favorite phone games on your PC, you’ll need an emulator (more on that later), via the emulator, you can map touch controls to your keyboard and mouse inputs. Compared to your phone, keyboard and mouse control delivers faster reaction times and increased precision, giving you the edge over opponents. You can also connect to external controllers (Xbox, etc) enabling console-like gameplay for phone games. The increased control possible with PC keyboard, mouse, and game controllers gives you a competitive advantage over touchscreen players, so get ready to win big. PUGB Mobile is an example of this phenomenon you may well have heard of, where playing with a mouse is akin to paying in god mode!
Screen real estate. Screens come in many shapes and sizes, using a variety of display technologies. One thing is for sure, transport your phone games from the small screen of your phone onto your laptop or monitor and you’ll open up a world of gaming possibilities. Strategy games, RPGs and FPS will come to life on a larger screen, with more details and room to properly play in an immersive environment. Added bonus: no more eye strain from staring at your phone screen, because a larger display can lead to hours of comfortable gaming.
How to play phone games on PC
Now let’s get down to the technical nitty gritty, that really isn’t too challenging at all -the art of playing phone games on your trusty PC. There are a couple of different ways to play Android games on your PC. These include using an emulator (our personal fave), game streaming, screen mirroring and cloud gaming. Emulators allow you to run Android apps and games on your PC. At time of writing the best emulators include:
* BlueStacks is the most widely used emulator, user friendly across a range of apps and games, customizable.
* MEmu, the serious gamer’s choice, prioritizes gaming performance, compatible with demanding titles and delivers smooth gameplay.
* LDPlayer is the casual gamers delight, offering fast, lightweight gaming that won’t ask too much of lower-end PCs.
Steps to phone game on your PC
Most emulators follow a similar process to help you get started playing phone games on your PC. Follow these simple steps to transfer your phone game campaigns to your PC:
* Download an emulator that meets your needs. There are many available, and a quick Google search will deliver the goods.
* Install your chosen emulator. Once you’ve settled on an emulator, simply run the installer and follow on-screen instructions to finish the setup.
* Run the emulator. Log in using your Google account and access the Play store, as you would on your smartphone.
* Download games. Following on-screen instructions, find and download the game you’re burning to play, then install it on the emulator.
* Customize and play. Following the instructions of the emulator, you can map your keyboard and mouse inputs to mimic touchscreen controls. Launch the game and tweak your customizations as you please, for the enhanced performance of smartphone gaming on your PC.
Tips to takeaway
If you’re unsure about the emulators above, try Google Play Games, an official way to get hundreds of your favorite phone games running on your PC. There are a few prerequisites for this app, though: you’ll need Windows 10 or later, an SSD boot drive, and before downloading, you must enable Virtualization support in your PC’s BIOS settings. If that’s too much hassle, we recommend trying out an emulator -you might be pleasantly surprised.
Finally, here’s a few tips to help you have the best phone gaming experience on your PC. Do your emulator research, and choose one that is made for gaming. After you’ve settled on an emulator, optimize the app's settings for your PC’s specs. Don’t forget to also optimize your PC setting for gaming. You can do this by going to Windows Power Settings, and selecting “High Performance” to assign maximum resources to running your game smoothly.
Also free up CPU and RAM by closing background apps that you don’t currently require. Finally, make sure you customize your keys with the emulator’s key mapping tool. The perfect key setup for one game might be incompatible with another, so remember to save your preferred key mapping profiles. We’ll leave you for now, and wish you luck on your gaming journey as you migrate, with your favorite games from phone to PC!
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January 3
