The New Wave of Retro Gaming Enthusiasm

Welcome to the digital playground where nostalgia meets modern technology. At Geekanoids, we've observed a remarkable trend that's as colourful and dynamic as the pixelated worlds of our favorite retro games: the new wave of retro gaming enthusiasm.

Why are vintage games making such a comeback? It seems that in today's fast-paced, ultra-high-definition world, gamers are seeking the charm and simplicity of the classics. But this resurgence isn't just about playing the games of yesteryear; it's about re-experiencing them in new and innovative ways.

With a surge in demand for retro gaming consoles and the birth of 'retro-inspired' indie games, the market is pulsating with energy. This energy is fueled by tech enthusiasts and gamers who find delight in the 8-bit sounds and sights that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Two new games are coming soon to Evercade and are easily accessible with low prices, these are the awesome Evercade Piko Collection 4 and Sunsoft Collection 2, both due in May, they represent great fun and amazing value. If you can’t wait until then and want to prepare yourself with the latest Evercade console, check out our links below.

Let's dive into the pixelated universe and explore how the old-school is becoming the new cool. From the re-release of classic consoles to the incorporation of retro aesthetics in current games, this is a phenomenon that transcends generations and genres. It's not just about reliving the past; it's about celebrating it in the present.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer looking to revisit the games of your childhood or a newcomer curious about the origins of today's gaming marvels, there's something incredibly satisfying about the retro gaming experience. So, grab your joystick, and let's embark on a journey through the timeless realms of retro gaming.

Stay tuned for the latest geek findings in the world of retro gaming, only on Geekanoids. And remember, when you're ready to snag that hot deal on the latest tech or a classic console, hit the country specific links below—you won't regret it!

Get your Evercade EXP Console here
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Get your Evercade VS Retro Premium Pack here
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Get your Evercade Games here
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RØDE MAKES ITS BIGGEST NEW PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT at NAB 2023

RØDE has today made its biggest product announcement ever at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, introducing seven new products and product updates, which will be launched over the coming weeks. This includes new firmware updates for the industry-leading Wireless GO II and RØDECaster Pro II, groundbreaking new products like the Streamer X, RØDECaster Duo and PodMic USB, and much-anticipated accessories.

RØDE will be showcasing these products alongside recent new releases, including the NT1 5th
Generation, Wireless ME and RØDE Capture, at the NAB Show from today, Sunday April 16, until tomorrow, Monday April 17 at the B&H Booth at NAB, Central Hall, #C8317.

WIRELESS GO™ II FIRMWARE UPDATE 

 A new firmware update is coming for the Wireless GO II, which will unlock even more features for what is already the most feature-packed compact wireless microphone system available. This includes the ability to save on-board recordings as WAV files for easy transfer to a computer on-the-go and start/stop on-board recordings using the transmitter and receiver power buttons – two highly requested features – as well as new camera models added to the camera preset feature, which was introduced in the most recent firmware update, and a number of system enhancements and workflow improvements. 

RØDECASTER PRO II™ WIRELESS MICROPHONE CONNECTIVITY

A new firmware update will also soon be released for the RØDECaster Pro II, which unlocks an incredible hidden feature: wireless microphone connectivity. Already the most powerful audio solution for content creators on the market, the RØDECaster Pro II features a flexible array of audio inputs, including combo jacks for connecting both microphones and instruments, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-USB interfaces for connecting computers and mobile devices. With this new update, users will also be able to connect any RØDE Series IV wireless transmitter – including the Wireless GO II and Wireless ME – for recording pristine wireless audio directly to the RØDECaster Pro II. This incredible feature is a world-first and makes the RØDECaster Pro II even more versatile, with more inputs and outputs than any other device of its kind on the market, affirming its place as the ultimate audio production console for content creators. 

RØDE created the world’s first compact wireless microphone system with the original Wireless GO and revolutionised the category again with the Wireless GO II and, most recently, the Wireless ME. These latest updates see RØDE continue to innovate in the wireless category, expanding product capabilities and ensuring they offer maximum creative potential. 

STREAMER X 

The Streamer X is a revolutionary new product that combines a professional audio interface and video capture card in a compact, easy-to-use console. It features studio-grade audio inputs for XLR and line-level devices, headsets and RØDE wireless microphones, with an ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp™ and powerful APHEX audio processing delivering pristine sound quality. It also offers 4K30 / 2K60 streaming and up to 2K120 / 4K60 pass-through for incredible video quality in a wide variety of applications, from streaming and gaming, to podcasting and content creation, to business presentations. Two USB-C connections seamlessly accommodate dual PC setups, and four customisable SMART pads allow for on-the-fly triggering of sound or voice FX and other actions on a computer. It is also fully compatible with RØDE software solutions, including UNIFY, RØDE Central and RØDE Connect for expanded functionality and unmatched flexibility. The Streamer X represents a new way to livestream with incredible audio and video. Never before has broadcast-quality video and audio capture been possible using a single console. This is the ultimate all-in-one streaming solution.

 

RØDECASTER DUO

The RØDECaster Duo is a compact and incredibly powerful all-in-one audio production solution for podcasters, streamers, musicians and content creators​. It offers the same unmatched feature set and peerless versatility as the revolutionary RØDECaster Pro II – with the same high-power quad-core audio engine, Revolution Preamps™, APHEX® audio processing and endless customisability – now in an even more compact and portable form factor. 

RØDE created the all-in-one podcasting console category with the original RØDECaster Pro in 2018 and, since its release in 2022, the RØDECaster Pro II has been praised as the most powerful audio production console of its kind. The RØDECaster Duo will continue this legacy, delivering everything that users have come to love about its sibling in a more compact footprint – perfect for creators that require fewer audio inputs but don’t want to compromise on audio quality.

PODMIC USB

The PodMic USB is an ultra-versatile, broadcast-grade dynamic microphone for podcasting, streaming and content creation. It offers the same incredible sound quality and compact yet rugged form factor as the best-selling PodMic, with a powerful new feature up its sleeve: XLR and USB connectivity. 



Fresh off the back of the release of the NT1 5th Generation – the world’s first studio condenser to offer both XLR and USB connectivity – this incredible feature has now been added to the PodMic. When using the analog XLR output, the PodMic USB is exactly the same as the original, albeit with a sleek new finish and studio-grade pop filter. When using the digital USB output, it offers a range of next-generation features that make it super flexible, including a Revolution Preamp and high-quality analog-to-digital conversion for pristine audio capture, advanced DSP for adding professional APHEX voice processing to any recording, and compatibility with smartphones and tablets for use on the go. It also features a zero-latency headphone output and on-board volume control and is compatible with the complete RØDE software suite, including RØDE Central, RØDE Connect, RØDE Capture and UNIFY, making it the most versatile microphone ever.



RØDECASTER BACKPACK

The Backpack is a custom-designed carry bag for the RØDECaster series, including the RØDECaster Pro, RØDECaster Pro II, and RØDECaster Duo. Made from high-quality materials, including a soft, durable Alcantara® handle, ballistic nylon straps and water-resistant exterior, it is rugged and hard-wearing. It can accommodate a RØDECaster Pro, Pro II or Duo, plus microphones, studio arms and other accessories, as well as laptops up to 16 inches. Ergonomic adjustable shoulder straps with back and chest support ensure absolute comfort, with exterior pockets and compartments providing additional storage.

WIRELESS GO II CHARGING CASE

The Charge Case is a handy charging case for the Wireless GO II. It accommodates both transmitters and the receiver and features an integrated battery that facilitates three full recharges for up to 30 hours of continuous use. With a rugged enclosure and zip system, it is also perfect for protecting the Wireless GO II when in transit or storage. 

Roland SP-404MKII EXCITING V3.0 Update

If you’re looking for a compact, standalone unit for tight playback of multi-track audio, MIDI syncing external gear, and DJing, the SP-404MKII is for you. The v3.0 update expands the SP’s capabilities to support an even wider range of performance and programming possibilities, including motion recording effects, automating mute actions, and quick conversion of complex patterns into manageable samples. Learn why new workflows, a boosted DJ mode, and other enhancements make the SP-404MKII the ultimate sampler for creating and performing any kind of music.

Check out the SP-404MKII here.

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Here’s how you Build an Internet Brand that People will Love #AD

Do you want to make a brand that people are going to love? Maybe you just want to make sure that you are doing everything you can to stand out from the crowd. Either way, this is the guide for you.

Discover the Purpose of your Brand

Did you know that every single brand out there has a very powerful purpose? You should too. Your purpose is what makes you wake up every day and gets you excited to work. If you don’t have a purpose, then you may find that your customers are unable to connect with your brand and this is the last thing that you want. Studies have shown that 50% of consumers across the world buy based on a company’s brand values too, so dig deep and make sure that you find those little nuggets of truth so you can put them on show for the world to see. Look at the casino.netbet.co.uk website, for example. When you do, you will see that the brand focuses on honesty, integrity and customer experience. 

SOURCE: Pexels.com

SOURCE: Pexels.com

Research Competitors

You should never copy the big brands who operate in your industry. You should however try and make yourself aware of where they fail. The ultimate goal here is for you to differentiate yourself from your competitors. You need to convince your customers to buy from you, rather than buying from them. Research the main competition you have and then find out how well they are doing. Create a brand research spreadsheet and then write down your own observations. This might sound boring but at the end of the day, it can help you to really make sure that your brand is better than everything else out there. 

Determine your Target Audience

The foundation for your brand would be for you to determine your target audience. When you have done this, you will then be able to market your product way more efficiently and this can work in your favour. If you are not sure how to determine your target audience, then try and piece together who is going to be buying your product so that you can make the most out of your brand while giving support to your customers.

Establish a Mission Statement

Have you ever given your brand mission a thought? Your brand mission should be a very clear expression of what you are most passionate about within your company. It’s the reason why you market the way you do. Before you can create a brand that your target market audience can trust, you have to make sure that you always do whatever you can to solidify who you are. This will help you to make the best decisions and it will also help you to make sure that every decision you make is a good one.

Of course, there are so many things that you can do to try and rocket your company success, and if you follow this guide then you should have no problems in making sure that you stand out from the crowd while also solidifying your brand for the future.

NordVPN vs. free VPNs – which should you choose?

If you want to access all streaming services, be able to buy video games early, and save a few euros while shopping, chances are, you’ve considered getting a VPN. A lot of internet users turn to free VPNs first, hoping to get the same service for free. The price (or lack of it) is tempting, but let’s see how they compare with paid services, like NordVPN, on other fronts.

Speed

Whenever you use a VPN, you lose some speed, because all your traffic has to go through a remote server before connecting to the internet.

Unfortunately, free VPNs make it even worse. They tend to have a tiny number of servers compared to paid providers, so they are often overcrowded. The servers can't manage the load, slow down, and even crash. And as if this slow and unstable connection wasn't enough, free VPN providers also limit how much data you can send and receive and how fast it travels. So it doesn't matter how fast your internet connection is, it will slow to a crawl whenever you connect to these VPNs.

Paid VPN providers work tirelessly to ensure a fast and stable connection to their users. With NordVPN, you can send an unlimited amount of data. They don't apply any speed or bandwidth limits, and with their new NordLynx technology, you will barely notice that you’re connected to a VPN server. Combine it with more than 5500 servers in 59 countries to choose from, and you are sure to enjoy the best speeds the VPN industry currently has to offer.

Reliability

Free VPNs are unreliable. You will have to connect and disconnect from multiple servers before you find one that works. And even then, there’s no guarantee that your connection will stay up. The servers crash constantly, terminating your connection, so you have to reconnect and reload often. The developers don’t put too much effort into their apps either. They might crash, bombard you with unskippable ads, or have hidden backdoors. What’s even worse, some free VPN apps are malware in disguise. They infect your device and use it for botnet attacks, or collect your data and sell it online. 

NordVPN has dedicated apps for all your devices that receive new functionalities and security patches regularly. You can also install it on your router, so you won’t have to set it up on multiple devices. And if you ever run into any kind of issue regarding any aspect of the service, NordVPN’s award-winning customer support is there for you 24/7 via email or direct chat. You would never get that level of customer service with a free VPN.

Price

The main reason why people turn to free VPNs is the price. NordVPN offers plans that start from €3.10 per month if you choose the three-year plan. And free VPNs are just that – free. But as it usually is with things that are too good to be true, there’s a catch. Whenever you opt for free VPN services, you’re using your privacy to pay for it.

Running a VPN service is costly. Even if the provider doesn’t care about privacy and speed too much, they still need servers in a bunch of different countries to be usable. And maintaining servers does not come cheap. If they are not charging their clients, how do they pay for it all and make a profit at the same time? By collecting your data and selling it to the highest bidder. 

Free VPN providers store all users’ logs: their real IP address, browsing history, what content they interacted with the most, etc. They sell this data to advertisers who use it to create tailored content for you. It makes your digital footprint larger, and there’s no way for you to take this personal information back. 


Security

People use VPNs not only for easier content access. It’s  an essential tool for everyone who wants to stay safe online. 

However, free VPNs won’t protect your internet connection. You won’t be able to choose between different security protocols, and a lot of providers won’t encrypt your traffic at all. This means that everything you do online could be visible to third parties.

NordVPN offers three security protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and its own NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard. You can choose which one you prefer speed and security-wise. No matter which one you pick, any data you send or receive over the internet will travel through a secure VPN tunnel, hidden from prying eyes. 

Bottom line

Free VPNs offer limited speeds and data caps, they are unreliable, and there’s no guarantee they will work when you need it the most. Their only attractive feature is that they are free. However, these VPNs are only free because you are the product.

If you choose a trusted VPN service like NordVPN that has been around for a while, you can hardly go wrong. It offers everything that you could want from a VPN: bulletproof encryption, reliable connection, and amazing speeds, all for a fair price. They won’t sell your data or infect your devices with malware, and they will be there for you should any issues come up.

Therefore, if you want to stay safe online, choose a safe service first.

5G POWER! Three and Activision partner to showcase the future of online gaming in the UK

A formidable 5G force: Three and Activision partner to showcase the future of online gaming in the UK

  • Three’s 5G home broadband delivers an optimum online experience for Activision’s latest instalment of its most iconic series - Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

  • Customers on Three will be given early access to the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Beta plus a bonus in-game weapon charm

Wednesday, September 18, 2019: Three and Activision announce a new partnership that will see Three’s new ultra-fast 5G home broadband deliver an optimum online experience for one of the most popular games in the world - the much-hyped launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, available October 25. 

Image Credit: Activision

Image Credit: Activision

Set to revolutionise the future of gaming, 5G will give Call of Duty players the optimum online experience, where split second decisions mean the difference between winning or losing. Gamers using Three’s 5G home broadband will get plug-and-play access to seamless online gaming and super smooth gameplay, where the only thing limiting a superior performance, will be the player’s skill.

To celebrate the partnership, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Beta codes have been released to Three customers via its wuntu rewards app*. Available for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC players, each early access code combined with Three’s new 5G home broadband means you can immediately experience a quick download and then a super-slick, first look at Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, giving you loads of time to make the most of the final days of the Beta period.

Three customers will also have access to a bonus in-game item, a jet-themed weapon charm.

A 5G connection is a step change in what people have been accustomed to from a mobile connection to date and it paves the way for a whole new level of gaming and live streaming without the all too familiar stuttering, annoying freezing and dull loading bars that we have all become used to. Whether playing on console or PC, Three customers can put 5G through its paces versus the standard wired home broadband connection to witness the speeds for themselves.  

This partnership cements Three’s continued expansion of its 5G home broadband service - the first stage in building the UK’s fastest 5G network. It also showcases Three’s long-term commitment to enhance the gaming and home entertainment experience for customers, which at £35 per month delivers truly unlimited data, so you can play, stream, download and connect all your devices and apps without any restrictions or worries about data.  Plus with the option of same day delivery** and a simple plug and play set-up, you can make the most of your Beta access. 

Shadi Halliwell, chief marketing officer at Three, said:  “Ultra-fast speeds are a priority for seamless streaming of entertainment especially gaming. Three is delivering a 5G experience that can’t be beaten which makes us the natural choice for one of the world’s leading games’ publishers.

“Customers also don’t want restrictions around how they consume entertainment and with 5G it’s important everyone can explore all its exciting possibilities without worrying about incurring hidden data costs. The combination of our superior 5G network that comes at no extra cost, our truly unlimited data plan and this fantastic partnership with Activision, means gamers can play the world’s most popular game without boundaries and simply concentrate on their chosen mission.”

Lee Godfrey, Call of Duty UK Senior Brand Manager at Activision, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with Three in the UK. Their commitment to delivering the very best player experience through its ultra fast 5G Network, is a perfect match for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.”

Three‘s customers will benefit from the vast 5G capacity, reliability and speeds that only Three has access to, due to the amount of spectrum (airwaves) it owns. Three is the only UK network that has 100MHz of contiguous spectrum that supports ultrafast speeds and enables a better customer experience of the power and potential of 5G.

FOSSIL LAUNCHES ITS NEWEST GENERATION SMARTWATCH - GEN 5

London – August 5, 2019 – It is with great excitement that Fossil brand announces its newest addition to our wearables assortment: the Gen 5 Fossil Touchscreen Smartwatch. This watch offers users the recently launched Qualcomm® Snapdragon WearTM 3100 platform alongside the latest software by Wear OS by GoogleTM. Boasting the latest designs, new speaker functionality, smart battery modes, and double the storage, Gen 5 speaks to both the tech-savvy and fashion-forward. The newly redesigned and revolutionized Gen 5 Smartwatch features tech that’s audible, lasts longer, and optimizes performance. Thanks to its sleek design and updated technology, the next generation smartwatch from Fossil is built to be a best-in-class technology experience for new and experienced tech enthusiasts alike.

 "For several years, the health and wellness industry has been converging with smartwatch technology—and Fossil knew there was a tremendous opportunity to provide a connected option for the design-conscious consumer looking to bring style to their wrist. It’s always been a top priority to listen to our consumers and address these big market share opportunities when it comes to technology innovation,’’ said Steve Evans, EVP Fossil Group. “As a direct result of that feedback, we’re incredibly excited to be able to offer our first-ever proprietary apps that offer an extended battery life and increased iPhone compatibility, which is always top of mind with our consumers around the globe.’’

The new smartwatch launches with six colourways in stunning combinations of black, smoke, and rose gold. With a 44 mm case size, and endless strap options, Gen 5 provides consumers with additional technology in designs and styles they have come to expect from Fossil. Personalization has never been more accessible, from customizable pushers to watch faces to notifications, allowing users to make the connected experience their own.

 

New features include:

Extended Battery Mode

Fossil Group has developed a proprietary smartwatch experience that offers four battery life pre-sets, putting the user in control and allowing for extended battery life. This new experience offers an ‘Extended Battery Mode’ where users can extend to multiple days on a single charge while still enjoying essential features like notifications and heart rate. ‘Daily Mode’ allows users to experience most features enabled, such as always-on screen. ‘Custom Mode’ allows users to easily manage battery optimization settings themselves, all in one place, where ‘Time-Only Mode’ gives users additional hours when the watch has a low battery or if they choose to use the smartwatch to only tell time. From the home screen on your watch, swipe down from the top and tap the battery icon to choose the mode that’s right for you.

Swimproof Speaker

Thanks to the inclusion of a swimproof speaker, in addition to the existing microphone, users can enjoy audible functionality, and hear responses from the Google Assistant-- when you ask a question or tell it to perform an action, you can hear your Google Assistant speak back to you.  

With the addition of Speaker, users have the ability to take calls on their smartwatch. In the past, this is a capability that only Android phone users have enjoyed--until now. At launch, Android users will be able to answer tethered calls, and later this fall, Fossil Group has developed a proprietary app allowing iPhone users to answer tethered calls-

making this a first on a Wear OS by Google device.

Functions include:

  • Sound alerts for notifications, alarms, timers, etc.

  • Hear responses from the Google Assistant

  • Google Translate speak out translation

  • Play third party music direct from watch

  • Answer tethered calls directly from watch

Tiles

Tiles, a new update from Wear OS by Google, provide a quick way to view information at a glance and perform actions. With a swipe left, Tiles adds easy access to quick actions and information that previously were hidden in the app menu. You can check your progress towards your fitness goals, start a workout, know where you need to be next, plan ahead with the latest forecast, check your heart rate, follow the latest breaking headlines, and even quickly set a timer.

Additionally, by doubling the total storage to 8GB, including 1GB RAM, users will have even more space to download apps and media, as well as see an overall performance boost. The integrated sensors have also been given an upgrade to help improve fidelity and optimize power consumption. Features familiar from previous generations include heart rate tracking, untethered GPS, NFC for Google PayTM, and Rapid Charging. As with our existing lineup, Gen 5 will come with a series of auto-installed apps: the leading music streaming service, Spotify, peace of mind and safety app, Noonlight, and Nike Run Club.

Cardiogram, a digital companion for your heart health, is the latest app that Fossil will auto-install. Cardiogram visualizes heart rate data into interactive charts that can be tagged with activities from your day, helping you identify what could contribute to spikes and dips in your heart rate. For example, users can monitor how your heart rate changes during a stressful meeting, exercise, or during sleep. Users can also track how health metrics compared to millions of other Cardiogram users for signs of undiagnosed diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation.

With this new generation of watch, Fossil showcases a unique take on technology and redefining what it means to bring activity and balance to your lifestyle. The added functions will give users a 360-holistic way to track all parts of their lives, while keeping true to the authentic creative spirit of innovative watch design that Fossil was founded on more than 30 years ago 

Features include:

  • Stainless steel case, topring, and pushers

  • 44 mm case size

  • Stunning 1.3’’ touchscreen digital display

  • Swimproof (up to 3 ATM)

  • 24+ hours battery life (based on usage) + multiple days in extended battery mode

  • Interchangeable straps and bracelets

  • Qualcomm® Snapdragon WearTM 3100 Platform

  • Sensors: Heart Rate, NFC, GPS, Altimeter, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ambient Light, Microphone

  • Powered with Wear OS by Google and compatible with iOS 10+ or AndroidTM 4.4+ (excluding Go edition)

  • Connect via Bluetooth® technology

  • Wireless syncing + magnetic charging

 

This watch retails for £279 and is available for purchase on www.fossil.co.uk and in select Fossil retail stores globally.

 

Google and Wear OS by Google are trademarks of Google LLC.