Tech

Games and projects that you can play together with a friend

Published

8 months ago

January 26, 2024

Harry Miller

The gaming industry is simply overflowing with projects that offer solutions for every taste and number of players.

You can try several formats and choose the most interesting one – it’s worth considering MMO RPGs, shooters, grinds.

World of Warcraft

MMO RPG is one of the most interesting options for gameplay in the company of friends, because it allows you to jointly develop your heroes and achieve results and help each other in strengthening your characters. It was World of Warcraft that became one of the projects that became the progenitor of the entire genre, and now everyone can go through current and old updates and do WoW boost while playing with their friend.

Combine your factions and classes

You need to choose the same faction – this is important, because World of Warcraft has a system of confrontation between two irreconcilable enemies, the Horde and the Alliance. If you accidentally or specifically select two different factions, then you simply will not be able to play together, but will only fight when meeting in the same locations, so be careful and coordinate your choice.

Choose solely based on external preferences, because there is no big difference between all the factions for a long time and the balance of power has been equalized by the developers from Blizzard.

Next, you need to choose a combination of classes and do this in several ways to ensure stable boosting in World of Warcraft:

Two attacking characters – on the one hand, this is an unstable format, because no one can restore health, or strengthen allies with different effects, but you can consistently deal double damage provided you are constantly mobile and take care to strengthen your characters using food and other methods.

One attacker and one support player – this format is chosen by many friends, or couples for stable gameplay like a warrior and a healer, when one player provides full damage to all types of monsters and raids, and also attacks representatives of other factions, while the second character and player provides support, heals and applies protective effects. Equipment and weapons are also distributed according to the principle of increasing attack for the attacking player and defensive for the support class. In this gameplay format, players can go quite far, adding temporary or permanent allies to their group as needed and assigned tasks.

Select priority gameplay

The main advantage in World of Warcraft for any group of players is the several types of WoW boosting and gameplay that you can choose from without losing serious aspects of the game mechanics.

You can purposefully complete all quests related to the storyline in order to find out the history of each major update that was released as the World of Warcraft project developed, and in this way get to the main and current Dragonflight addition, which will open at level 60.

It is in this way that you can level up the fastest, simply by completing quests and helping each other by simply exchanging profitable equipment for each hero.

At the same time, you will be able to engage in professions to collect different materials, combine them, earn gold, create important equipment and weapons for yourself and other players if you put them up for sale, or engage in mass production through the order table – a new mechanic that will be available on Dragon Islands.

Participate in PVP – if you have reached a sufficient level in World of Warcraft boosting, then you can simply fly and run around locations for adjacent leveling for two factions, that is, there will always be a chance to meet opponents, then you can devote yourself entirely to battles with other players.

For each victory over an enemy of your level, you will receive special coins – valor, which will allow you to exchange them in a certain amount for special equipment and weapons, with enhanced values for attacks in PVP against other players, which allows all battle fans to fully concentrate on this kind of gameplay, if you like it.

CS 2

If you like to shoot, play together and prefer the session shooter format, then you can choose one of the best e-sports projects in the history of the gaming industry.

2×2

This is a format that copies the matchmaking familiar to all players, but allows it to be played by two people, rather than the usual lineup of 5 players.

You and your friend will be up against two other players who are also playing as a team, or have been matched at random in a 15-round format with 8 of them switching sides, where classic bomb-planting matches will be played, but on a smaller version of popular maps, where They left only one zone for planting a bomb and there are three directions for approaching it. There may be problems with card balance with one side having an advantage, but overall it is an interesting format for playing with two players, if not ideal.

In this mode, the same reward system will operate as in matchmaking, but with only successes in this mode highlighted.

It is worth recalling that CS abandoned the rank formats and instead there is now an overall rating on each of the maps and the same principle applies in the 2×2 format, which is an exact copy of this mode.

However, you can also pay attention to full-fledged matchmaking if this format is closer and more pleasant to you.

Yes, three random players will play with you on the team, but not always they will not communicate, and with the change in the rating system, now each player does not lose or increase his rank with his results, but loses points, which can, firstly, be easily replenished, and secondly, the more efficiently you play even when you lose, the fewer points you will ultimately lose.

Due to the fact that you are playing together, your allies will not be able to kick any of you out of the match if a conflict arises, because the votes of all group members need to be taken into account, and you and your friend naturally will not vote against each other.

While Valve is in no hurry to add a workshop system and maps with interesting AIM to CS 2, just to shoot at each other without obligations, but the implementation of the old format will have to wait.

Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.