Bill Loguidice's Blog, page 9
May 30, 2024
Prediction Correct – Evercade Alpha is a bartop arcade, but is it enough?
As predicted, the Evercade Alpha is a bartop arcade. It’s exactly what I thought it was going to be, with one notable ommision, a rotatable screen for TATE-mode games. Frankly, at a special pre-order price of $229.99 US, I was expecting just a bit more. The TAITO Egret II Mini, which, to be fair, only has a 5-inch screen versus the Alpha’s 8-inch screen, retails for $199.99 or less, and does in fact have a screen that rotates.
Despite that disappointment, it seems like a solid overall product, but I do also dislike the fact that it’s available in two SKUs with different built-in games. They’ve done that before with their various handhelds, but it’s certainly far less practical to buy multiple $200+ large-footprint countertop devices if you want to play the games they’re unable to put on a cartridge or include as built-ins on other devices (licensing restrictions are, as always, a bear).
Pre-orders begin June 4, 2024, for an expected November 2024 ship.
There are also two Deluxe versions for a bit more money from funstock.co.uk that have the following features:
Evercade Alpha Bartop Arcade (Choice of Mega Man or Street Fighter)Pre-installed upgraded Sanwa arcade controlsExclusive Deluxe Edition PackagingExclusive Evercade Alpha USB Controller, only available in this pack (worth ��20)All 6 swappable marquees for your selected Evercade AlphaExclusive Evercade Alpha PosterCertificate of Authenticity
The Evercade Alpha Street Fighter Bartop Arcade has the following built-in games:
STREET FIGHTER





The Evercade Alpha Mega Man Bartop Arcade has the following built-in games:
MEGA MAN





Of course, each cabinet can take all console-ready Evercade cartridges (my updated Evercade game list for May 30, 2024 is here) in one of its two slots like the Evercade VS consoles, although it only supports up to two players rather than four. If you were to buy every Evercade product and all of the cartridges, you’d have access to more than 567 licensed games.
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Exclusive Tales of Kenzera: ZAU PC giveaway from ORIGIN PC
In collaboration with Surgent Studios, ORIGIN PC is giving away a high-performance gaming desktop with a Tales of Kenzera: ZAU theme. The press release follows:
Celebrating a masterfully-written love letter – ORIGIN PC hosts giveaway for exclusive Tales of Kenzera
In collaboration with Surgent Studios, ORIGIN PC is giving away a high-performance gaming desktop��
Miami, FL ��� May 30, 2024 ��� ORIGIN PC, a leader in custom high-performance systems, has partnered with Surgent Studios to host a giveaway for an exclusive Tales of Kenzera: ZAU PC. Following a special gameplay livestream today May 30, the PC can be won by entering through ORIGIN PC���s website from now until 06/12/24 (11:59 PM EST).
The Tales of Kenzera: ZAU PC features a personalized UV print of the game���s main character, Zau. Tales of Kenzera
: ZAU draws upon the experiences of Surgent Studios founder Abubakar Salim���s own experiences with grief to shape its vast, vivid world and emotionally breathtaking story. Aside from their role as creative director behind the game, Salim is also well known for their roles as Bayek in ���Assassin���s Creed Origins��� and Father in ���Raised by Wolves.���
Beyond the gorgeous artwork, the gaming desktop is built with an Intel Core i5-14600K, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Founder���s Edition, and high-quality components by CORSAIR to offer high-performance for an elevated PC experience.
The Tales of Kenzera PC features:
ORIGIN PC 4000D CaseIntel�� Core
Web Pages
To learn more about ORIGIN PC���s Tales of Kenzera: ZAU giveaway, please visit:
ORIGIN PC / CORSAIR ���PR Contacts
PR ��� USA and Canada��� Justin���OcbinaAndrew Williams justin.ocbina@corsair.com ��
andrew.r.williams@corsair.com ��
About ORIGIN
ORIGIN PC builds custom, high-performance desktops, workstations, and laptops for hardware enthusiasts, digital/graphics artists, professionals, government agencies, and gamers. ORIGIN PCs are hand built, tested, and serviced by knowledgeable gaming enthusiasts, industry veterans, and award-winning system integrators. Every ORIGIN PC comes with free lifetime 24/7 support based in the United States. The ORIGIN PC staff is comprised of award-winning enthusiasts, experienced in the gaming and PC markets who want to share their passion with others. ORIGIN PC is located in Miami, FL and ships worldwide. For more information, please visit www.ORIGINPC.com or call 1-877-ORIGIN-��. (674-4460)
About CORSAIR
CORSAIR (Nasdaq:CRSR) is a leading global developer and manufacturer of high-performance gear and technology for gamers, content creators, and PC enthusiasts. From award-winning PC components and peripherals, to premium streaming equipment, smart ambient lighting, and esports coaching services, CORSAIR delivers a full ecosystem of products that work together to enable everyone, from casual gamers to committed professionals, to perform at their very best.
Copyright �� 2024 Corsair Memory, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. NVIDIA, GeForce, and GeForce RTX are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the United States and other countries. Intel and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. AMD is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.
��2024 Origin PC Corporation all rights reserved. Origin and the Origin ���O��� symbol are trademarks of Origin PC Corporation.
###

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May 29, 2024
GameSir unveils Kaleid and Kaleid Flux controllers for Xbox and PC, featuring an illuminated design and advanced capabilities
GamSir’s new wired games controllers are designed with advanced features, illuminated LED strips, and high-quality design. The Xbox-licensed controllers feature GameSir���s Hall Effect sticks, which deliver an anti-drift glide and reliable, precision-tuned performance on Microsoft’s Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One X|S, as well as all Windows 10/11 computers, including handhelds like the Steam Deck. You can check out the Kaleid on Amazon here, and the Kaleid Flux on Amazon here.
The press release follows.
GameSir unveils its Kaleid and Kaleid Flux controllers, featuring a stunning illuminated design, comfortable grips, and advanced capabilities.
Multiple platform compatibility, Hall Effect sticks, and customizable buttons provide gamers with a competitive edge at an affordable price point.
London, 29th May 2024 ��� GameSir, a World-renowned brand in gaming peripherals, is proud to announce the launch of its Kaleid and Kaleid Flux controllers. These amazing new wired game controllers are designed to enhance the gaming experience with their advanced features, vibrant illuminated LED strips, and high-quality, comfortable design. Engineered with precision, and packed with features, these latest additions to GameSir���s outstanding range of controllers are the ultimate choices for FPS and action gamers that are looking to take their gaming performance to the next level. GameSir is focused on providing gamers with a superior gaming experience through its high-quality yet cost-effective controllers.
The GameSir Kaleid is available to purchase on Amazon UK , Amazon US and the GameSir official website , with an RRP of ��59.99/$49.99 from May 30th
The GameSir Kaleid Flux is available to purchase on Amazon UK , Amazon US and the GameSir official website , with an RRP of ��55.99/$46.99 from May 30th.
An additional 10 percent discount coupon is also available for both controllers during the three month launch period.
The Xbox-licensed controllers feature GameSir���s signature Hall Effect sticks, which effectively deliver an anti-drift glide and a reliable, precision-tuned performance on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One X|S and Windows 10/11 and Steam platforms. The Hall Effect Analog triggers are designed to deliver a consistent output, ensuring that actions like accelerating or braking during racing games give reliable and predictable results. Textures on the grips, triggers and bumpers keep fingers firmly in control during rapid actions, while also ensuring comfort and a strong grip during extended gaming sessions.
Both models boast a stunning transparent design that incorporates 2 customisable LED light strips that can be tailored to each gamer���s unique preferences to suit different environments, moods and styles. The Kaleid has microswitch ABXY buttons, rainbow light colors, and an original PCB pattern printed with ���KALEID���, whereas the Kaleid Flux features membrane ABXY buttons, a stunning gold light color, and is printed with a stylish damascus pattern.
Equipped with four distinct motors, these controllers can deliver both strong and subtle vibrations as needed, enhancing the tactile feedback for a more immersive gaming experience. With two asymmetric motors in the grips and in the triggers, gamers can truly experience the real, precise feedback of crashes, gunshots and bumps. The two macro back buttons offer extensive customization, allowing users to map them to a single button or a combination of buttons based on their preferences. Additionally, a turbo function can be enabled for rapid, repeated inputs. For those that like to play FPS and action games, there is a useful quick-switch to Hair Trigger Mode, which can be enabled simply by holding M + LT / RT buttons for 3 seconds. When precise linear control or ultimate responsiveness is required, the Kaleid family of controllers give the competitive edge each and every time.
Using the fully customizable GameSir Nexus software, users can enjoy creating controller profiles by mapping buttons, fine-tuning the sticks and triggers, and configuring vibration and light effects. Up to three profiles can be saved simultaneously, allowing players to adjust their settings based on the game they are playing.
The GameSir Kaleid is available to purchase on
Amazon UK
,
Amazon US
and the
GameSir official website
, with an RRP of ��59.99/$49.99 from May 30th
The GameSir Kaleid Flux is available to purchase on Amazon UK , Amazon US and the GameSir official website , with an RRP of ��55.99/$46.99 from May 30th
An additional 10 percent discount coupon is also available for both controllers during the three month launch period.
Product Specifications:
Working Platform: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10/11 and Steam
Connection: Wired, 3m detachable USB-C cable
3.5mm Audio Jack: Yes
Microphone Mute Function: Yes
Hall Effect Sticks: Yes
Analog Triggers: Yes, Hall Effect Magnetic Sensors
Rumble Motors: Yes, 4 in total, in each grip and trigger
ABXY Buttons: Micro Switches (Kaleid), Membrane (Kaleid Flux)
Back Buttons: Yes, 2
Customization Software: Yes, GameSir Nexus
Battery: No
Product Size: 156*107*60 mm / 6.14*4.21*2.36 in
Net Weight: 213g / 0.47 lbs
Package Size: 160*118*84 mm / 6.30*4.65*3.31 in
Gross Weight: 393 g / 0.87 lbs
About GameSir:
Founded in 2013, GameSir is one of the world���s leading providers of high-performance gaming peripherals, providing high-tech gaming hardware and excellent gaming experience for every gamer. In the name of “Just in Game”, GameSir knows exactly what each gamer really crave – the accurate control and enhanced gaming experience. Therefore, GameSir has been testing every potential solution to meet the needs of gamers, which is the GameSir mission.
For more information, visit��www.GameSir.hk

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May 28, 2024
CI CD Mastery for Cloud Infrastructure and Dive into DevOps book bundle offers!
Here’s the link to check out the CI/CD Mastery for Cloud Infrastructure Book Bundle options with up to 22 items!

Ready to make yourself indispensable? This comprehensive library from Packt is your springboard to mastering all aspects of the CI/CD pipeline for cloud infrastructure.��Cloud Solution Architect’s Career Master Plan��will provide you with a thorough career roadmap.��The Self-Taught Cloud Computing Engineer��will bootstrap you with hands-on projects and expert guidance to get you up and running.��The Ultimate Docker Container Book��is your one stop shop for this increasingly mandatory DevOps skillset. Pay what you want for all these books and more���a value of over $850���and help support First Book with your purchase.
Here’s the link to check out the Dive into DevOps Book Bundle options with up to 22 items!

Are you an IT pro looking to level-up your skills? Or a newbie looking to break into an in-demand field? This bundle of books from No Starch Press will get you up to speed on a spectrum of mission-critical topics.��DevOps for the Desperate��covers the basics you need to get you up and running in today���s full-stack infrastructure.��How Linux Works��will teach you what you need to know to take control of the world���s most powerful and versatile operating system.��The Book of Kubernetes��gives you a deep understanding of containerization as a whole and Kubernetes in particular, as well as imparting essential best practices. Get all these books and more���valued at over $750���and help support the Python Software Foundation with your purchase.
You can always check out the most recent��Humble Bundle��offers��here��and��here.
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May 23, 2024
Atari acquires Intellivision brand and game library
In a new Twitter/X post, Atari has announced that they’ve acquired what remains of the Intellivision brand and game library. It’s basically everything that Intellivision Entertainment hasn’t already sold off after failing to launch the ill-fated Amico console. I’d say this is good news for Intellivision fans as the present Atari regime has shown that they can be good stewards of classic gaming and release some well-targeted products post Atari VCS.
As of this writing, we don’t know what Intellivision Entertainment will be renamed to, but perhaps this will given them the funds they need to continue to limp along with their comically overpriced and confusing-to-setup Amico Home Android games, and maybe even release the console-less Amico controller that’s on their very loose roadmap. Whatever the selling price, it’s definitely not enough for them to finish and manufacture the actual Amico console.

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May 21, 2024
True no-holds-barred gaming laptop now available from Razer
The Blade 18 is now available from Razer. It features the world’s first laptop-based 18″ 4K 200 Hz display and Thunderbolt 5 along with up to 64GB 5600MHz RAM, 4TB SSD, and GeForce RTX 4090 (16GB GDDR6 VRAM). These features, along with the Intel Core i9-14900HX provide true desktop-level power. It’s relatively thin, but quite heavy at 6.8 lbs. The 91.7 WHr battery will no doubt struggle to keep the lights on for an extended period of time, but that’s to be expected with a pure gaming laptop.

There are lower spec configurations available, but if you have the money for the full $4,799.99 package, it’s probably worth the slight extra investment for such a uniquely powerful machine. For $499.99, you can add on a no-questions-asked warranty for 3 years.
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May 20, 2024
Get one or both of these value-packed beat ’em ups and Metroidvania PC Steam game bundles!
Here’s the link to check out the beat ’em ups game bundle options with up to 7 items.
Ready for a rollicking return to simpler times? This bundle of beat ‘em ups delivers classic brawling action, and packs a wallop of a value! It’s time for the ladies to deliver the beat downs in River City Girls 2—which you’ll get along with both its predecessors in this bundle. One of the most revered names in the genre returns in roguelite form in Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons. In Battletoads, get ready for a raucous revival of the amphibian-led brawler that’s overflowing with personality. Get all these games and more, and help support Active Minds and Safe in Our World with your purchase!

Here’s the link to check out the Metroidvania game bundle options with up to 8 items.
Rejoice in the thrills of exploration and discovery with this bundle of Metroidvania games, featuring some of the genre’s most exceptional recent entries. In the critically acclaimed 9 Years of Shadows, you’ll explore a stunning, handcrafted world that’s been drained of all color while wielding amazing powers and taking in a star-studded soundtrack. Lose yourself in the sprawling alien world of Axiom Verge 2, the boundary-pushing sequel to the fan-favorite sci-fi game (that’s also included in this bundle!). Experience the genre at its most subversive in Cookie Cutter, full of dark humor, brutal combat, and some of the finest hand-drawn art the genre has ever seen. Get all these games and more—7 in total—and help support the Global Foodbanking Network with your purchase.

You can always check out the most recent Humble Bundle offers here and here.
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May 15, 2024
GameSir releases pocket-sized X4 Aileron Bluetooth controller for high-performance Android and Xbox gaming
GameSir���s latest mobile controller, the X4 Aileron, boasts a compact two-piece design that magnetically joins together and features Bluetooth connectivity. You can purchase it on Amazon, and get further details from the Gamesir website. I previously looked at the GameSir T4 Cyclone series for IGN, and was suitably impressed. What follows is the official press release.

GameSir redefines the mobile gaming experience with the X4 Aileron Bluetooth controller
With a pocket-sized, versatile design, gamers can enjoy uninterrupted, seamless connectivity and low-latency gaming on-the-go
London, 15th��May 2024 –��GameSir, a leading provider of innovative, high quality gaming peripherals, is thrilled to unveil its latest masterpiece, the X4 Aileron, a groundbreaking mobile controller that redefines gaming. The cutting-edge telescopic controller has been meticulously designed to accommodate most Android devices and allow mobile gamers to enjoy ultra-responsive Bluetooth connection and low-latency play, anywhere, anytime.��The GameSir X4 Aileron is available to purchase now from��Amazon US,��Amazon UK��and the��GameSir website, with an RRP of ��99.99/$99.99.
With a sleek, compact two-piece design that magnetically joins together, gaming on-the-go has never been this seamless and immersive. The X4A is compatible with most Android devices, whilst also allowing for extra space for phone coolers and wireless chargers, meaning users can enjoy extended sessions without needing to worry about devices overheating or the battery dying.
The controller is equipped with an ultra-responsive Bluetooth connection, so gamers can stay in the zone and conquer their opponents with low-latency and lightning-fast reactions. With state-of-the-art Hall Effect sticks, users can also enjoy anti-drift performance, unmatched longevity and unparalleled accuracy, giving them the competitive edge for an affordable price.
Promising E-sport level microswitch buttons, the face buttons, bumpers and D-pad of the controller strike the perfect balance between responsiveness and durability, boasting a lifespan of up to 5 million clicks. Dual trigger options also ensure that gaming style is fully customizable, meaning users can effortlessly and seamlessly switch between analog triggers and hair triggers. The controller is also equipped with interchangeable ABXY buttons, thumb sticks and D-pads, as well as the option to change light effects easily via key combo or the GameSir app.
The X4 Aileron has been thoughtfully enhanced with anti-friction glide rings that provide the ultimate control, allowing users to glide through their gaming adventures with ease. For complex maneuvers, gamers can rely on the multi-function M button for convenient controls at their fingertips, with the ability to adjust trigger mode, RGB brightness, lighting effects, volume and key value freely.
The GameSir X4 Aileron is available to purchase now from��Amazon US,��Amazon UK��and the��GameSir website, with an RRP of ��99.99/$99.99.
Product Specifications:
Working Platform: Android
Connectivity: Low-latency Bluetooth
ABXY Buttons: Microswitch
Hall Effect Sticks: Yes
Hall Effect Triggers: Yes
Trigger mode: Analog triggers or hair triggers
Back Buttons: Yes, 2 mappable Back Buttons
Customization Software: Yes, GameSir APP
Button Layout: Xbox / Switch
Compatible Model Width: 68-95mm / 2.68-3.74 in
Compatible Maximum Model Thickness: 12.5mm / 0.49 in
Pass-Through Charging: Yes
Battery: Yes, one 400mAh battery in each controller
Product Size: 120*104.6*42.7 mm / 4.72*4.12*1.68 in
Net Weight: 188.5 g / 0.42 lbs
Package Size: 160*118*84 mm / 6.30*4.65*3.31 in
Gross Weight: 426.3 g / 0.94 lbs
About GameSir:
Founded in 2013, GameSir is one of the world���s leading providers of high-performance gaming peripherals, providing high-tech gaming hardware and excellent gaming experience for every gamer. In the name of “Just in Game”, GameSir knows exactly what each gamer really crave – the accurate control and enhanced gaming experience. Therefore, GameSir has been testing every potential solution to meet the needs of gamers, which is the GameSir mission.
For more information, visit��www.GameSir.hk
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May 14, 2024
What is the Evercade Alpha?
Towards the end of April, it was noticed that on the packaging for the Evercade VS-R Controller, it was listed as compatible with the VS, VS-R, and Alpha. Now, the VS is the original Evercade console, distinct from the handheld series, and the VS-R is the upcoming cost-reduced version of that console. What’s the Alpha? No one knows, but I have a reasonable speculation.

Several people have put forth the idea that it’s perhaps a 3/4-scale Arcade 1UP-style cabinet or a full countercade, but my first thought was something a bit more modest, although still in that same general wheelhouse.

There’s a product that’s several years old now called the TAITO Egret II Mini. It’s a tabletop unit with a screen that’s easy to rotate and has interchangeable controls. There are plenty of other variations of the form factor and design methodology, with some of the more popular ones featuring Sega and Neo Geo arcade games. So why this form factor?
First off, Evercade has yet to embrace an arcade-style form factor. It’s impractical for them to do an Arcade 1UP- or AtGames-style upright machine since logistics would be difficult for a company based in Europe with a strong US presence. And that’s of course ignoring the reliability and other issues that larger machines have. In short, they’re a bear to support.
So why a TAITO Egret II-style machine? Simple. Evercade has already embraced TATE mode on their EXP handheld series, but there’s not a practical way for many people to do it with the VS series without using a separate, smaller display. After all, it’s not easy to put a big screen TV on its side.

Keeping in line with their current streamlining mindset, it’s unlikely the Alpha would have a TV out. It would rely on its built-in 5-inch or larger display, which again, would almost certainly be something you could manually rotate like on the Egret II. In terms of controls, it could potentially have a built-in Egret II-style arcade controller, since Evercade only supports digital controls and buttons at this time, so no need for analog, spinners, or trackballs. And since Evercade games support up to four players, you’ll need additional player controls, although I’m skeptical that they’d necessarily include four ports on Alpha rather than just two. That’s again with the idea that they’re trying to streamline and cost-reduce the products that support their ever-growing game library.
In terms of cost, I’d estimate a $129 – $149 USD price point for such a device. That’s a bit high, but there would be a bit more going on here than with their usual consoles or handhelds. To put it simply, you have to get that screen and the rotation mechanism exactly right not to have support and reliability issues.
Anyway, that’s my reasoned speculation. What’s yours?
The post What is the Evercade Alpha? appeared first on Armchair Arcade.
May 7, 2024
Get this Programming Languages Mega Software Bundle!
This bundle of 20+ coding items covers JS, Python, Git, and other critical topics! Use this link to check out the three bundle options with up to 26 items.
Looking to build a reference library that���ll cover a wide spectrum of essential programming languages and technologies? This bundle from Packt has you covered. Bone up on the foundational language of web development with��Modern JavaScript from the Beginning. Build a strong and versatile foundation in coding with��Practical Python: Learn Python Basics Step by Step. Enhance your problem-solving skills and get a leg up on tech interviews with��Data Structures and Algorithms: The Complete Masterclass. Get over 20 items covering a diverse range of topics���ranging from Node.js, HTML, and CSS, and to C++ Git���and help support Alzheimer���s Research UK with your purchase!

You can always check out the most recent��Humble Bundle��offers��here��and��here.
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