Windows

Best Windows 11 Themes, Backgrounds And Skins 2024

By admin February 9, 2024

Best Windows 11 Themes, Backgrounds And Skins 2024, Windows 11 Themes, Backgrounds, Skins, and Icons can offer a unique look to your computer coupled with unlimited customization possibilities.Using different skins and Themes For Windows 11 you can change your desktop icons, icon packs, background wallpaper, mouse cursor, color scheme, widgets, screensavers, wallpapers, and even system sound effects.

Thanks to Windows 11 Skin Packs it’s even possible to transform your Windows desktop background to look like a macOS or Linux computer.

As the title suggests, in this article, we have shared some of the best Windows 11 Themes And Icon Packs out there.

1. macOS Monterey SkinPack

First on the list is the new macOS Monterey SkinPack. The name says it all, this Windows 11 SkinPack will help you to replicate the latest macOS Monterey.

After applying the theme your background wallpaper, icons, the taskbar, buttons, and even software windows will look and feel like macOS.

The lite version of this Windows 11 Theme is free but you have to pay a small amount to get the icons. Do note that the developer suggests that you delete every existing SkinPack or Theme before applying the macOS SkinPack.

DOWNLOAD macOS Monterey SkinPack

2. 3D Theme

Next on the list is the 3D Theme for Windows 11. The feature-packed theme consists of 17 background HD wallpapers that will completely change the look and feel of your PC.

3D Graphics of this free Windows 11 Theme enhance your desktop and you can even couple 3D Theme with any of your existing themes.

Lastly, the installation is quite simple as well.

After downloading the 3d.deskthemepack file all you have to do is open and it will automatically apply to your PC.

DOWNLOAD 3D Theme

Best Windows 11 Themes, Backgrounds And Skins 2024

3. Ubuntu SkinPack

Once again the name says it all, Ubuntu SkinPack for Windows 11 will help you to transform your Windows PC into a Ubuntu PC.

The Unix-based OS SkinPack is very light and can run flawlessly on low-powered laptops and aging desktops. Sadly, it doesn’t support every Windows program but apart from that, the theme does offer a left-aligned taskbar with Ubuntu icons.

Similar to other packs on the list Windows 11 Ubuntu Theme is free to use but you can unlock some cool features by paying three dollars.

DOWNLOAD Ubuntu SkinPack

4. Xbox Series X theme

Xbox Series X theme is another great theme for Windows 10 that will be compatible with Windows 11 as well. As the name suggests this theme offers Xbox Series X console wallpapers.

If you’re a fan of Xbox consoles then do check out this theme. You can download the Xbox Series X theme from the Microsoft Store for free and it consists of 16 premium wallpapers.

DOWNLOAD Xbox Series X Theme

5. Mountain Light Premium

Next on the list is Mountain Light Premium. This Windows 11 Theme can be directly downloaded from the Microsoft Store and it’s completely free.

The theme consists of around 18 high-quality 4K premium mountain images from around the world. After applying them the Windows 11 accent color will change based on the color of the wallpaper.

DOWNLOAD Mountain Light Premium

6. Windows Nostalgia Bliss

If you consider yourself a long-time Windows user then do check out the Windows XP-inspired, Windows Nostalgia Bliss theme for Windows 11. With this theme, you will get access to the beautiful Bliss wallpaper.

The wallpaper is updated to make it compatible with Windows 11. The resolution of this wallpaper is 1920*1080.

DOWNLOAD Windows Nostalgia Bliss

7. Hacker Theme

Hacker Theme is ideal for anyone who wants to make his PC look and feel like a hacker’s rig.

In addition to Windows 11, this dark theme is compatible with Windows 10 / 8 / 8.1 / 7.

The slideshow of wallpapers offered by the Hacker Theme consists of many classic hacker symbols including the anonymous logo.

Another noteworthy feature of the Win 11 Theme is the green text that changes after every 30 minutes. This theme also gives a look of dark theme for windows 11.

DOWNLOAD Hacker Theme

8. Squid Game Theme

Anyone who is a fan of the Squid Game TV show should definitely check out the Squid Game Theme for Windows 10 and Windows 11.

After downloading and installing this Windows 11 theme you will get access to a total of 15 high-quality wallpapers from The Squid Game Netflix series.

Similar to other wallpaper themes on the list Squid Game theme doesn’t change icons and cursor.

DOWNLOAD Squid Game Theme

9. Northern Lights

If you are looking for a minimalistic theme that will enhance the overall look and feel of Windows 11 then do check out Northern Lights.

Northern Lights can be directly downloaded from the Microsoft App Store. The free theme for Windows offers a set of 15 high-quality wallpapers.

DOWNLOAD Northern Lights

10. Fortnite

Last on the list we have Fortnite. Yes, you read it right, there’s a Fortnite Windows 11 Theme. In addition to Windows 11, the theme is compatible with Windows 10 / 8 / 8.1 / 7.

This free Themepack for Windows 11 consists of 15 wallpapers and you will even get app icons with this Fortnite theme.

DOWNLOAD Fortnite Theme

11. World National Parks

World National Parks was one of the best themes for Windows 10 and now the theme is available on Windows 11 as well.

The theme consists of 18 high-quality images of spectacular national parks from all around the world. The theme is completely free and can be directly downloaded from the Microsoft store.

DOWNLOAD World National Parks

12. Polar Animals Theme

The name says it all, the theme Polar Animals has visually impressive images of snow leopards, polar bears, snowshoe hares, and other snow animals.

If you would like to experience winter vibes right on your desktop then do check out this well-crafted theme.

DOWNLOAD Polar Animals Theme

13. Beach Time PREMIUM

Beach Time PREMIUM is one of the best beach themes for Windows 11. This premium Windows 11 theme consists of 15 idyllic 4k images.

Beach Time PREMIUM is ideal for anyone who wants his desktop to look refreshing and clean. Using this theme you can even set a slideshow. If you do so images will automatically change after regular time intervals.

DOWNLOAD Beach Time PREMIUM

14. Vanilla

The theme Vanilla has been in existence since Windows 7 and now it’s available for Windows 11 as well.

Vanilla features a clean interface that makes your PC looks minimal and since it’s a borderless theme you won’t see any boundaries around open Windows.

DOWNLOAD Vanilla

15. Cosmic Beauty

Next on the list of the best Windows 11 themes and skins we have Cosmic Beauty. This free-to-use theme for Win 11 consists of 20 spectacular photos from outer space.

These photos feature strange planets, nebula, black holes, quasars, stars, and much more. You can download Cosmic Beauty directly from the Microsoft store.

DOWNLOAD Cosmic Beauty

16. Botanical Garden

This theme is offered by Microsoft Corporation and showcases seven aesthetically pleasing wallpapers. For those who prefer simplicity over vibrancy, this could be a perfect fit.

Though the theme solely provides backgrounds, it is an excellent pick for individuals who appreciate simplicity without animated visuals.

The captivating photography ensures a good greenish vibe on your desktop.

DOWNLOAD Botancial Garden

17. Classic Manga Action

Are you an Anime fan? Then you will like this Manga theme for Windows 11.

You get 8 different wallpapers that capture the different shades of the Manga characters.

This fresh Win 11 theme, available for free on the latest Windows, infuses the wallpapers with a burst of color and brings out the character’s energy.

DOWNLOAD Classic Manga Action

How To Apply Windows 11 Themes

If you have selected a good Windows 11 now it’s the time to apply it on your PC. So here’s how to apply themes in Windows 11.

1. Right-click anywhere on your desktop and click on Personalize.

2. Next select Themes. You can now apply any of the installed themes on your PC or click on browse themes to find some more themes on the Microsoft Store.

How to Install Custom Themes On Windows 11

To install a non-microsoft theme on a Windows 11 PC follow these simple steps.

NOTE: Before following this method either create a restore point or an image backup. So if something goes wrong you can always revert back.

1. Firstly, download and install UltraUXThemePatcher on your PC.

2. Next, copy all of your downloaded theme files to “C:/Windows/Resources/Themes“

3. You can now apply your custom theme from the Control Panel’s Personalization menu.

CONCLUSION

So these were some of the best Windows 11 Skins and Themes out there. We will continue to update the post as more and more themes become available for Windows 11.

Windows 11 Themes FAQs

Where can I download themes for Windows 11?

You can download themes for Windows 11 from the official Microsoft store or sites like DeviantArt, Skinpacks and Themepack

How do I customize my desktop in Windows 11?

You can customize your desktop on Windows 11 by using or customizing themes, wallpapers, widgets, apps, start menu, system tray, etc.

Which theme is best for Windows 11?

macOS Monterey SkinPack and Northern Lights are considered to be the best themes for Windows 11.

What are the best themes for Windows 10?

If you are looking for windows 10 themes you can find some of the best ones here in this list.

What are the best Windows 11 themes for Windows 10?

Find out the best Windows 11 themes for Windows 10 in this article.

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Games

Best Offline Shooting Games for Android 2024

By admin February 9, 2024

Best Offline Shooting Games for Android 2024, Unable to play your favorite shooting game because of slow or no internet connectivity?

Sounds frustrating, isn’t it? Offline shooting games is what you need. These games do not require any internet connection and promise uninterrupted gaming.

So, Without any further ado, let’s straight away move on to have a look at the best offline shooting games for Android. Refer to choose a power-packed game for yourself and take your mobile gaming experience to a new level.

Play Your Favorite Offline Shooting Games For Android Without Internet Connection

Get ready for an incredible gaming experience with our top-rated offline shooter game.

#1. Dead Trigger 2 – Zombie Game FPS shooter

Next on our list of Top 12 Offline Shooting Games For Android is this zombie-inspired FPS shooter game. It enjoys a humongous download of around 110 million. During the gameplay, you have to use different fighting and survival strategies to stay in the game.

The game offers:

• 33 different battlefields and 10 regions.

• To stay in the game you have to build your Hideout and safety measures.

• It has around 70 types of gun weapons to offer along with 600 gameplay wars.

• Katana, Swords, Hammers, Bats, Wrench are a few of the brutal weapons that you can use to fight for your survival.

• The game can be played using a virtual joystick or touch control.

Enjoy unleashing the zombie in you and experience cutting-edge graphics with this best offline shooting game.

Download App: Android

#2. Cover Fire – Offline Shooting Games

This one has earned a permanent place in the list of offline shooting games. Loaded with a lot of action and graphics, it provides a massive list of characters and weapons to choose from. Each style in the game is unique and has a special ability to fight various types of battles you will have to face in the game.

The game offers:

• The game has a challenging story mode where you need to be careful with every action.

• You can also enjoy the online tournament mode

• High definition graphics with various challenging modes

To win the game, you will have to build your strategies against your enemies, lead a team of soldiers, and control actions.

Download App: Android

#3. Sniper X With Jason Statham

This is a dream come true for all you, Jason Statham fans. This game gives you a golden opportunity to team up with your favorite fighter and face the evil forces and bring harmony.

Featured Character: Your character in this game is named Sniper X, who works for the team of elite mercenaries, Spear. Jason Statham is the commander of Spear who makes essential strategies and gives voice command throughout the game.

The game offers:

• You accompany Jason Statham by being his teammate in the game

• A lightweight game requires less than 100 MB unlike other heavy games

• Great graphics with various mode

Well, the good news is, despite being loaded with amazing features and graphics, it occupies even less than 100 MB of your total memory space.

#4. Overkill 3

Overkill 3 is an action-packed offline shooting game where players have to fight against evil faction forces for their survival. It is an android multiplayer game where you can team up with your friends to dominate the leader board. It also provides a chat room where you can discuss your game strategy with your teammates.

Apart from this, each player has an online profile that shows individual and team achievements and statistics. The players are supposed to defeat their enemies using high-voltage lightning, customizable guns, and super-power firearms.

The game offers:

• Cinematic Battles.

• Console quality graphics.

• 3D effects and easy controls.

• Ever-changing gameplay with varied environments.

Download App: Android

#5. Hitman Sniper

One of the best offline shooting games available on the google play store. Its advanced features give you a feeling of a professional sniper.

Featured Character: The player is called Agent 47 and is supposed to take down his enemies using his sniper rifle.

It offers you more than 150 different levels and allows you to choose your strategies. Just like a professional hitman, you will be given specific tasks to complete. You can collect as many as 16 types of guns during the game.

The game offers:

• Great game for sniper lover

• To move forward you need to kill the enemy with your sniper

• The game has more than 150 levels and 16 types of guns

Download App: Android

#6. LONEWOLF (17+) – a Sniper Story

Out of the many, best offline shooting games for Android, this one can keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s not meant for kids and is quite an intense game. Let’s take a look at some of it’s best features.

The game offers:

• It offers a great storyline, which keeps unwrapping itself during the game.

• It’s entirely a challenging and exciting game that keeps you tied up with the game for long hours.

• Apart from this, if you want to check your shooting skills and play a ruthless shooting game, then Lone Wolf is what you need.

Download App: Android

#7. Dead Effect 2

Powered with console-quality action graphics and RPG elements, Dead Effect 2 deserves a permanent spot on our list of top offline shooting games for Android. Dive into the world of high-tech body implants, upgradable weapons, movie-quality sound effects, breathtaking graphics, and stunning effects with this incredible gameplay.

The game offers:

• The game is built on RPG layers with character evolution. The players get around 40+ upgradable weapons and 100+ body implants to enhance their powers.

• It comes with enhanced on-screen controls which can be easily customized.

• With this stunning game, you also get around 10+ hours of special mission and around 20 hours of campaign gameplay.

Download App: Android

#8. Mad Bullets – Free Shooting Game

Any search for offline shooting games is incomplete without this power-packed game. This fast-paced action game in the Wild West will put your laughing muscles on a dangerous job.

If you want a break from intense shooting games and want to try something hilarious with quirky characters and a funny game style, then this free android game is the one for you. Enjoy this funny and light-hearted action game today.

The game offers:

• Ideal games for the one who doesn’t like the hardcore killing/shooting games

• Simple yet bright and attractive graphics which no one expects in a shooting game

• A free android game that will make you laugh while killing others

Download App: Android

#9. Into the Dead 2: Zombie Survival

Into the Dead is the best offline shooting game for Zombie movies and game lovers. Unlike regular FPS games, it provides an array of FPS elements.

The game is built to offer a world of zombies in which the player has to protect itself from being attacked.

The player has to face numerous challenges and missions during the game and can access powerful weapons to win the fight. Earn bonus points, run and hunt down as many zombies as you can.

The game offers:

• More than 7 chapters and 60 stages with many challenges in between

• Unlock weapons as you proceed further and upgrade as per requirement

• The games offer a variety of gameplay

Download App: Android

#10. Death Race

This is a replica of the original death race movies where the players are supposed to race for their freedom. Destructive weapons, killing enemies, revenge, shooting, electric vehicles are a few of the main features of this free shooting game.

Defeat your fact racing rivals to win and earn your freedom. Death Race is undoubtedly one of the offline shooting games for Android.

The game offers:

• This game is a mix of shooting and car racing games that can fascinate you.

• List of amazing weapons to choose and customize your vehicle.

• Survive and win the race or kill every other opponent to win.

Download App: Android

#11. Shadowgun Legends: Online FPS

Featured Character: Featuring John Slade, Shadowgun is based on a notorious bounty hunter. The game ends with the death of Dr. Edgar Simon. You will get advanced weapons, ships, and S.A.R.A, Android assistance to fight the enemy, including battle droids, mutant humans, and cyborgs. Shadowgun is a Third shooting game.

The game offers:

• HD graphics with a story-driven single-player game

• Survive and kill the enemies to enter the next stage

• For all the gamepad users, you can enjoy this game with a gamepad connected to your devices.

Download App: Android

Read Also : Windows 10 Media Creation Tool User Guide

#12. Real Commando 3D Sniper Shooter

Next in the list of offline shooting games, we have a fauji (military) game. The game offers survival-style multiplayer offline games. You will never get bored with this game because it is backed with an amazing storyline to follow. More than 100 million gamers have trusted this game. With a variety of missions and engaging gameplay, you can enjoy this shooting game.

The game offers:

• It is a great first-person shooter game to play.

• The game has very smooth gameplay supporting amazing graphics.

• It also has a sniper mission which may interest the gamers who are looking for a sniper game.

Download App: Android

Final Verdict: Play Your Favorite Shooting Games Without Internet

Choose your favorite offline shooting game without worrying about your internet connectivity and speed. Each of the picks mentioned above has something unique and exciting to offer along with power-packed gameplay.

Choose one from the list of best offline shooting games for Android. If you think that we have missed other incredible options please provide your feedback. Happy Playing.

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Computer

How to download Windows 10 for free

By admin February 8, 2024

How to download Windows 10 for free, Windows 10 is the most widely used PC operating system in the world right now. Obviously, it’s a good idea to keep a USB memory stick, a DVD, or an ISO file with the Windows 10 setup handy. You may need it for various reasons, whether it’s reinstalling Windows 10 on your laptop or assisting friends in trouble, when their computers malfunction.

Or, why not, even for upgrading a very old Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 computer. If you want to know how and where to download Windows 10, don’t worry. Here are three ways to get Windows 10 for free and legally, regardless of whether you need to download a 64-bit or 32-bit full version.

1. How to download Windows 10 from Microsoft using the Media Creation Tool

The best option to obtain Windows 10 is to use a small program that Microsoft provides to everyone for free: the Media Creation Tool. This small application allows you to download Windows 10 as an ISO file or to create a DVD or a USB drive with Windows 10 on it. You can download the Media Creation Tool from the Windows 10 website.

The app provides a straightforward and user-friendly interface. It allows you to choose between 32-bit or 64-bit versions of Windows 10 and includes different editions like Windows 10 Pro and Home. For more guidance, you can check out our tutorial: Windows 10 Media Creation Tool: Create a setup USB stick or ISO.

Download: Media Creation Tool.

How to download Windows 10 for free

2. How to get Windows 10 free (full version) with Rufus

Using Rufus is another great way to download Windows 10. Rufus is a handy application that allows you to create bootable drives from image files. What many don’t know, however, is that you can also use it to download operating systems, including Windows 10. To get the most recent version of the software, visit the Rufus website.

Once you get Rufus on your computer, run it and make sure you allow it to check for updates. Otherwise, you won’t be able to download Windows 10.

Then, click or tap the small arrow next to the Select button.

This opens a small menu with two options: Select and Download. Choose Download instead of the default Select option.

That will initiate a small wizard where you can tell Rufus that you want to get Windows 10. Choose it from the Version list and click or tap on Continue.

The next steps of the Download ISO image wizard in Rufus are as clear as they can be. All you have to do is select the options you prefer and click/tap Continue to move on to the next ones.

You can choose the Release (there’s only one option here at the time of writing: version 22H2 v1), then select what edition (Home, Pro, and Education are all inside the same ISO), what language, and what architecture you want to download (Windows 10 64-bit or 32-bit). In the end, you get to download the full version of Windows 10 by pressing the Download button.

TIP: If you’re interested, here’s what the latest version of Windows 10 is, and how the Windows 10 editions are different from each other.

Once you press Download, you’re asked where you want to save the Windows 10 ISO file. Select a location on your computer, choose a name for the ISO or leave the default one, and click or tap on Save to begin downloading it.

Rufus then starts downloading Windows 10 on your PC. While the process is running, you can monitor its status at the bottom of the window.

When the download is over, you’ll find the Windows 10 ISO file saved in the location you specified earlier. Then, you can use it to create a bootable DVD or USB memory stick with the Windows 10 setup. If you need help with that, check out this guide: How to make a bootable USB drive with Windows, Ubuntu, or FreeDOS.

Download: Rufus.

3. How to get a Windows 10 download from a safe site, like Softpedia

The third method I can think of is to get a Windows 10 ISO from websites that offer software downloads. However, this option has the highest risk because many of these websites are not trustworthy, and some may even hide malware in the downloads they provide.

Sadly, most of the big download sites that are reliable, such as FileHippo, CNET, and MajorGeeks, don’t have direct links for downloading Windows 10 ISO files. The only website with a good reputation that I found offering direct downloads for Windows 10 ISO files is Softpedia. Go to it, look for Windows 10, and you should see the download options in the first results.

Download: Windows 10 on Softpedia.

What is your favorite way to download Windows 10?

If you want to get Windows 10 for free, legally, and without any risks, these are the options you have. Do you have any other suggestions on how to download Windows 10? Which method do you like the most? Do you use the official Media Creation Tool from Microsoft, or do you prefer Rufus when creating a Windows 10 USB memory stick? Let me know in the comments section below.

How to restart a Windows 10 computer

Sometimes, you need to restart your Windows 10 laptop or desktop PC simply to give it a fresh new start. Some other times, you may have to reboot because you just installed a new app or driver, or maybe because Windows 10 updated itself. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of ways to restart Windows 10, and they’re all quite simple. I have a list of eight different methods for you to choose from and I’m curious whether you know them all, or just a few of them. Here they are.

1. How to restart Windows 10 using the Start Menu

If you want to restart your Windows 10 computer, the easiest way is to use the Start Menu. First, open the Start Menu by clicking or tapping the Windows button in the bottom-left corner of the screen. Then, click or tap the Power button. From the options that appear, choose Restart to reboot your device.

If you have the Start Menu in full screen or you’re using Windows 10 on a tablet, things look a bit different. However, you can follow the same steps to restart your device: tap the Start button, go to Power, and tap Restart.

2. How to restart Windows 10 using the WinX menu

Another way to restart your PC is to use the power user menu, or the WinX menu for short. You can open it by pressing Windows + X on your keyboard or by right-clicking (or pressing and holding) the Windows button in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Then, choose “Shut down or sign out” and click or tap Restart.

TIP: The WinX menu is one of the most powerful things in Windows 10, out of the box. But did you know that you can make it even more useful by editing its options? Here’s how to edit WinX.

3. How to restart Windows 10 using Alt + F4

You may already know that pressing the Alt + F4 keys closes the current application or window you’re using. But did you know that you can also use this keyboard shortcut to restart Windows 10? All you have to do for that is to go to the desktop by pressing the Win + D keys, and then press Alt + F4 to open the Shut Down Windows dialog box. In it, select the Restart option from the dropdown menu and press Enter or click/tap OK to reboot your Windows 11 device.

TIP: The Shut Down Windows dialog also lets you sign out of your user account or switch to another one if that’s what you want.

4. How to restart Windows 10 from the command line

For those who love working with commands, there are ways to restart Windows 10 from the Command Prompt or PowerShell too. Moreover, some commands can also be executed directly from a Run window if that’s what you prefer. Here’s how it all works:

4.1. How to restart Windows 10 using the “shutdown” command

Open a Command Prompt, PowerShell or Run window, and type the command:

shutdown /r

Then press Enter on your keyboard to restart your Windows 10 laptop, tablet, or desktop computer.

Once triggered, the command makes Windows 10 display a warning window (“You’re about to be signed out”), and after a short while, your computer restarts.

Please note that closing the warning doesn’t stop the restart process.

4.2. How to restart Windows 10 using the PowerShell Restart-Computer command

If you prefer using PowerShell, you can also use this command to restart your Windows 10 device:

Restart-Computer

Once executed, the command instantly reboots your Windows 10 computer. There are no other warnings displayed.

Note that this command only works in PowerShell or in a PowerShell tab inside Windows Terminal. You can’t use it in Command Prompt or in the Run window.

5. How to restart Windows 10 from the lock screen

You can also restart your device from the lock screen: you can see this screen before logging into Windows 10 or if you sign out or lock your device. On it, press the I/O icon from the bottom-right corner and then click or tap the Restart option.

6. How to restart Windows 10 with Control + Alt + Delete

If you have a Windows 10 PC with a keyboard, a quick way to get to the power options is to simultaneously press the Control, Alt, and Delete keys on your keyboard. Once you do, look for the I/O button in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Click or tap on it, and you’ll see the usual power menu with Sleep, Shut down, and Restart. Choose Restart, and your Windows 10 computer will reboot.

TIP: There’s more to the Ctrl + Alt + Del screen than just power options. Here’s what Control Alt Delete is and what you can do with it.

7. How to restart Windows 10 using our Shut Down Windows shortcut

If you want to restart (or power off) your PC, you can also use our handy shortcut for the “Shut Down Windows” dialog box I’ve talked about in the third (Alt + F4) method of this guide. This shortcut is a little file we made for you, that works on any Windows machine, whether it’s Windows 10 or Windows 11. Here’s how to get it and use it: Download the shortcut for “Shut Down Windows”.

After you download it, run it, and it will instantly open the Shut Down Windows dialog box. In it, select Restart and either press Enter on your keyboard or click/tap the OK button.

8. How to restart Windows 10 using Simple Shutdown Scheduler

Last but not least, there’s also an app that I believe you’ll like: Simple Shutdown Scheduler. It can help you with scheduling or triggering immediate actions for shutting down or restarting Windows 10. Before installing it though, you will have to install the additional Windows 10 feature .NET Framework 3.5.

Then, open the app, go to the General tab, and pick the Restart action from the Immediate action dropdown menu. Once you do, hit the Go button next to it.

If you want to learn more about this app, check out this guide we published some time ago: Set your Windows PC to turn off or restart at certain time, with Simple Shutdown Scheduler.

How do you usually restart your Windows 10 computer?

You know now that there are many ways to reboot your Windows 10 device. Depending on what you prefer or need, you may use one or the other. Which one’s your favorite? Also, if you’re having any issues restarting your Windows 10 computer, feel free to leave a comment in the section below, and I’ll try to help.

How to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking

If your Windows is acting up or not booting at all, you may want to try Safe Mode to fix it. Safe Mode is a special way of starting Windows that only loads the essential stuff, so you can troubleshoot and repair the issues.

But sometimes, you need more than just the basics, like internet access. That’s where Safe Mode with Networking comes in handy. It’s a variation of Safe Mode that also lets you connect to the web and other networks. In this guide, I’ll show you how to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking using various methods, including from the command line and the graphical user interface of this operating system.

NOTE: This guide covers the ways in which you can boot Windows 10 into Safe Mode with Networking. If you’d like to know more about Safe Mode, what it is, and why it’s useful, you should read this article first: What is Safe Mode? Also, if you’re interested in starting your computer into standard Safe Mode without networking or internet access, read this tutorial instead: How to boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode.

What is Safe Mode with Networking in Windows 10? What’s the difference between Safe Mode and Safe Mode with Networking?

The default Safe Mode starts Windows using only a few core services and drivers to avoid as many issues as possible. Unfortunately, the downside is that the minimal Safe Mode doesn’t let you connect to the network or the internet, so you’re kind of isolated.

That’s where the Safe Mode with Networking environment comes in handy. If you need to use the internet while in Safe Mode to make it easier to troubleshoot your Windows 10 computer, you should try Safe Mode with Networking. This option lets you start Windows with only the essential services and drivers, but it also includes the networking components. However, keep in mind that this only works with wired Ethernet connections. Safe Mode with Networking doesn’t work with Wi-Fi. That’s because wireless cards need more complex drivers that are not loaded by Windows 10 when running in Safe Mode.

Safe Mode with Networking can be tremendously helpful when you need to download repair tools from the internet or when your computer is infected with malware and you must download and run antivirus tools that are up to date. Now let’s see how to boot into Safe Mode with Networking in Windows 10. I’ll first cover the ways to start Safe Mode with Networking when you can’t log in to Windows 10 and then the ones to use when you can sign in with your user account.

How to boot in Safe Mode with Networking when you can’t log in to Windows 10

Having trouble starting or logging in to Windows 10? You can still boot your computer into Safe Mode with Networking in order to fix the problem(s). Here’s how:

1. How to restart Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking using the Shift + Restart keyboard shortcut

One of the easiest methods to boot Windows 10 into Safe Mode with Networking is to restart it while keeping the Shift key pressed. Furthermore, you can do that from the sign-in or lock screen without having to actually sign in with a user account on your Windows 10 computer:

Boot your Windows 10 PC as you would normally do. When you get to the sign-in screen, press and hold the Shift key while clicking the Power button, and then Restart.

After a short while, you should see a blue screen with four options: “Continue (Exit and continue to Windows 10),” “Use a device (Use a USB drive, network connection, or Windows recovery DVD),” “Troubleshoot (Reset your PC or see advanced options),” and “Turn off your PC.” Click or tap the third one: Troubleshoot.

On the Troubleshoot screen, choose Advanced options.

On the Advanced options screen, click or tap on “Startup Settings (Change Windows startup behavior).”

Next, on the Startup Settings screen, click or tap on the Restart button.

After a short while, Windows 10 restarts and gives you some options for how it will boot up. To make it go into Safe Mode with Networking, choose option number five: “5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking”. To select it, either press the number 5 key or the F5 function key on your keyboard.

Your Windows 10 computer will now restart and boot into Safe Mode with Networking.

2. How to open boot into Safe Mode with Networking when Windows 10 shows a black screen

If Windows 10 fails to boot normally three times consecutively, it automatically enters Automatic Repair mode the next time you try to start it. You can access the Safe Mode with Networking from there. Trigger the Automatic Repair mode manually by interrupting the normal boot process three times over: use the reset or the power button on your Windows 10 computer to stop it during boot.

If you use the power button, you might have to keep it pressed for at least 4 seconds to force the power off. When your Windows 10 computer enters the Automatic Repair mode, the first thing you see is a screen letting you know that the operating system is “Preparing Automatic Repair.”

After a short while, the Automatic Repair tries to diagnose the problems that keep your Windows 10 PC from booting successfully.

When the Automatic Repair screen is loaded, click or tap on the Advanced options button.

Then, the “Choose an option” screen loads. Click or tap on Troubleshoot and take the same steps shown in this guide’s first method. In short, follow this path: Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart > Enable Safe Mode with Networking (press the 5 or the F5 key).

3. How to restart in Safe Mode with Networking from the command line, with a Windows 10 installation disc or USB stick

If your PC doesn’t boot Windows 10, but you have access to another computer, you can use the working computer to create a Windows 10 installation DVD or USB memory stick. Download Windows 10 and create your own installation media. Then, insert the DVD or the USB memory stick into your non-working Windows 10 computer and boot from it. Wait for the Windows 10 setup wizard to load, and choose the language and keyboard layout you prefer. Then, click or tap Next.

On the next screen, don’t click/tap on Install now. Instead, look at the bottom left part of the wizard and click/tap on “Repair your computer.”

The screen called “Choose an option” loads. On it, click or tap Troubleshoot.

The Troubleshoot screen loads. On it, click or tap Advanced options.

A screen called Advanced options is loaded: click or tap “Command Prompt (Use the Command Prompt for advanced troubleshooting).”

To restart Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking from Command Prompt, run this command:

bcdedit /set {default} safeboot network

After you press Enter on your keyboard, the Command Prompt should state: “The operation completed successfully.”

Close the Command Prompt and then click or tap on “Continue (Exit and continue to Windows 10)”.

After your PC restarts, Windows 10 will boot into Safe Mode with Networking.

IMPORTANT: To get back to normal boot after you’ve finished repairs, follow the same steps, but run this command instead:

bcdedit /deletevalue {default} safeboot

4. How to start Windows 10’s Safe Mode with Networking from a recovery drive

If you already have a recovery disk or you create one on another Windows 10 computer, you can use it to boot your broken Windows 10 PC into Safe Mode with Networking.

Plug the recovery drive into your Windows 10 PC and use it to boot. The first screen you see asks you what keyboard layout you prefer to use. Click or tap on the one you want.

Then, on the “Choose an option” screen, click or tap on “Troubleshoot (Reset your PC or see advanced options.” The next steps are the ones shown in the first method from this guide. Essentially, you should follow this path: Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart > Enable Safe Mode with Networking (press the 5 or the F5 key).

How to boot in Safe Mode with Networking when you can log in to Windows 10

If you want to boot your Windows 10 PC in Safe Mode with Networking, and you can still log in normally, here’s are your options:

5. How to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking using Shift + Restart

If you’re signed in to Windows 10, open the Start Menu. Press and keep the Shift key down, click the Power button, and select Restart.

After a short while, you should see a blue screen with four options: “Continue (Exit and continue to Windows 10),” “Use a device (Use a USB drive, network connection, or Windows recovery DVD),”, “Troubleshoot (Reset your PC or see advanced options),” and “Turn off your PC.” Click or tap on the third one – Troubleshoot – and then take the same steps shown in the first method of this guide. In short, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart > Enable Safe Mode with Networking (press the 5 or the F5 key).

6. How to reboot into Safe Mode with Networking using Windows 10’s Settings

You can also boot into Safe Mode with Networking if you use the Advanced startup settings from Windows 10. Start by opening the Settings app and then click or tap on the Update & Security section.

In the left sidebar, click/tap to select Recovery. On the right, click or tap the Restart now button from the Advanced startup section.

Then, Windows 10 loads the same “Choose an option” screen that I’ve shown in this guide’s previous methods. From here on, you should follow the same steps described earlier: Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart > Enable Safe Mode with Networking (press the 5 or the F5 key).

7. How to boot Windows 10 into Safe Mode with Networking using msconfig (System Configuration)

Another easy way to boot a Windows 10 computer into Safe Mode with Networking is to use the System Configuration tool, otherwise known as msconfig.exe. Launch System Configuration: a fast way to do this is to type system configuration or msconfig in the search box on your taskbar and then click or tap System Configuration.

In the System Configuration window, click or tap the Boot tab. Check Safe boot in the Boot options section, and then choose Network.

After you click or tap on OK, Windows 10 pops up a notification saying that you must restart your computer to make the changes. If you want to go into Safe Mode with Networking right now, click/tap on Restart. Otherwise, choose to “Exit without restart,” and when you’re ready, restart your Windows 10 PC in Safe Mode with Networking manually.

When you restart, Windows 10 automatically enters Safe Mode with Networking. The first thing I found when that happened on my test computers was that Microsoft Edge launches automatically in this Safe Mode, loading the Windows help & learning website.

You can now use Microsoft Edge to navigate the internet and read help guides or download any repair tools you might need. Then, when you’re finished troubleshooting your PC, turn off Safe Mode with Networking by following the same steps in this chapter to disable the Safe boot setting from msconfig (System Configuration).

8. How to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking from Command Prompt with the shutdown command

The last method I know for starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking relies on Command Prompt. Open CMD and execute the following command:

shutdown.exe /r /o

This command triggers a reboot of Windows 10 into its recovery environment. Immediately after you execute it, Windows 10 notifies you that it will sign you out.

You will then see the Choose an option screen, just like in the previous chpaters of this guide. From here on, follow the same path as in the first chapter: go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options -> Startup Settings -> Restart. Then, press 5 or F5 on your keyboard to boot into Safe Mode Safe Mode with Networking.

That’s it!

Do you know other ways to boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking?

In this article, I covered all the methods I know for starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking. And as you’ve seen, there are multiple ways to do this, some more complicated than others. While I tried to be as comprehensive as possible, there may be others that I missed, so if you have any other ideas, please let me know in the comments section. Also, if you have any questions or issues regarding this subject, don’t hesitate to ask.

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Artificial Intelligence

10 Best AI Tools to Boost Productivity in 2024

By admin February 6, 2024

10 Best AI Tools to Boost Productivity in 2024, In the last month, a few new AI-powered sensations have swept the internet by storm. Tools like ChatGPT, Google Bard, and other AI productivity tools help people increase their workflow. Now, if you are in seek of more AI tools to boost productivity, then keep reading this article.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a technology that’s becoming famous day by day as we are moving into 2024. It has the potential to change or help individuals or many industries by improving business operations, and healthcare among other things.

As a result, the demand for AI productivity tools is increasing among organizations and the people running small businesses are highly interested in implementing AI tools to gain a competitive edge.

AI tools offer a variety of benefits ranging from automating tasks to enhancing user interaction. As we approach 2024, there are many exciting AI tools that are available to help businesses and individuals.

In this article, we are going to discuss 10 AI tools to consider in 2024, each with its own unique capabilities and potential applications. whether you are looking to automate small tasks, enhance decision-making or gain deeper insights from the data, these tools can help you achieve your goals or unlock new possibilities in the world of AI.

1. ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a natural language processing tool driven by AI technology and developed by OpenAI that allows us to generate a text-based response in human language. In the list of AI productivity tools it is one of the best tool. The language model can assist you with tasks such as generating essays and composing emails, and coding. The main aim to build this tool was to eliminate the problem of the traditional chatbot methods which we were using throughout the platforms like e-commerce, banking, etc and it works like a normal human being.

Features:

• Text Based Response: This can provide information on a variety of topics and responds to the user with text-based responses.

• Wrok Like Vartual Assistant: It can serve as a virtual assistant for managing little jobs.

• Language Feature: Analyze the language and suggest changes that can make the information more readable and accessible.

• User Recommendation: Recommend things like movies, restaurants, etc. based on the user’s input.

• Code Builder: Used to create code for different programming languages.

• Simple UI: ChatGPT is made to be simple to use and navigate while offering a warm and engaging experience.

• Subject Expert: This is able to converse about several different subjects at once and comprehend and react to difficult queries.

•Free: ChatGPT is free.

10 Best AI Tools to Boost Productivity in 2024

2. Hostinger AI Website Builder

Hostinger AI Website Builder is designed to help users build websites that are suitable for a variety of goals. This all-inclusive solution streamlines the process: after registering, provide information about your brand, and watch as the AI creates a unique website design in a matter of minutes. 24/7 customer support is provided in case you get stuck at any step.

The platform is extensive, covering duties like creating engaging material, choosing pertinent graphics, and combining crucial design components. The application ensures an amazing appearance and good search rankings for your site thanks to its intuitive drag-and-drop editor and integrated AI SEO tools. All of this is offered at a price that is exceptionally low. It’s free to try and $2.99 or ₹149 per month, get free hosting and domain and 30-days money back guarantee. The best part is no payment method attachment is required for accessing the free hosting service.

Features:

• AI Logo Generator: The logo maker produces a professional and AI-generated logo for your brand within a few minutes.

• AI Business Name Generator: Discover distinct business name concepts that mirror your brand identity – commence at no cost by inputting pertinent keywords into the search field.

• AI SEO Tool & AI Writer: Includes templates optimized for SEO and a multitude of SEO capabilities. To kick things off, your sitemap will be generated automatically – no manual work is required. Then, their AI tools can craft meta titles, descriptions, and alt texts, all contributing to improved search engine rankings.

• Ecommerce Features: Access a complete set of online selling tools at your disposal. Showcase upto 500 products, oversee inventory and order management, facilitate payment processing, and beyond. Enable hassle-free appointment bookings with just a few simple clicks.

• AI Heatmap: The AI Heatmap feature enables you to understand user interactions with your website. It visually represents the sections of your page that garner the highest engagement, empowering you to rearrange them based on user clicks and gaze patterns.

3. DeepBrain AI

DeepBrain AI is a cutting-edge video synthesis and the best AI video generator company that specializes in creating hyper-realistic AI humans. You can create stunning videos with just a script, and use photo-realistic AI avatars that can speak 80+ languages and gesture naturally.

It has the right template for you, whether you need a training video, a marketing video, a how-to video, or a news video. Creating high-quality videos manually is time-consuming and challenging. But, with the DeepBrain AI productivity tool, video production has become a lot more efficient and less time-consuming.

Features:

• AI Avatars: DeepBrain AI has 100+ fully licensed AI avatars that can support video production. It also gives you the option to create custom avatars for celebrities, politicians, brand ambassadors, and more.

• AI Video Generator: Create generative AI videos with just a script. Text-to-video conversion in 5 minutes and reduce the time and cost by 80%.

• Conversational AI Humans: Humanize the digital engagement by AI Humans that can listen and respond to your customers or users in real time. Also, integrates with chatbots and Large Language Models for natural conversations.

• Metahumans: Create immersive experiences with the upcoming 3D digital humans that are ready for the metaverse.

• This comes with marketing features built-in that can automate certain simpler activities, including creating tweets on any subject.

• It enables you to share your writing with others and work on writing projects with others.

• Flexible Text-to-Video Maker: Use text-to-speech to make your AI avatars speak any language. Select various video templates to start from and do hassle-free online video editing.

DeepBrain AI is the best AI video generator that can help you create amazing videos with ease. All of this is offered at a price of $30 per month and just $24 per month with the yearly plan. It also comes with a free trial. So, try it today, create a free AI video and see the difference for yourself.

4. Freepik AI Image Generator

Freepik’s AI image generator is one of many pioneering features provided by the online platform, placing users at the very center of creating out-of-this-world visuals for personal or commercial projects.

Its highly intuitive interface provides the perfect environment to get creative, and with an entire asset library at your fingertips, this is more than just a clever image generator. Let your inner perfectionist shine with the freedom to edit on the go. Change the style, size, color, and tone levels to squeeze the most out of your dreamlike image. Designed by creatives for creatives, Freepik’s AI image generator is amongst the most sought-after AI tools out there.

Features:

• Free to use: Sign up for free and generate up to 3 images per day

• Subscription benefits: Premium users can generate up to 400 images per day

• Beginners guide: An in-depth beginners guide to get you started

• Huge asset library: Support of a colossal asset library to help create stunning, functional designs

• Editing on the go: An in-browser editing tool that allows you to crop, scale, and retouch

• Fantastic quality: Highly detailed outputs that are generated in seconds

5. Personal AI

Personal AI is an advanced conversational AI tool that is designed to help you have smarter conversations with business partners, co-workers, and prospects. Whether you’re looking to automate responses, generate questions, or just have a more natural conversation.

You can automate responses to frequently asked questions, set up automated replies to emails, and even generate personalized messages for your clients or customers. It is designed to be user-friendly and easy to use, regardless of your level of technical expertise. It can be accessed through various platforms, such as messaging apps, email clients, and social media, making it easy to stay connected and productive no matter where you are.

Features:

• Can be used to book flight tickets, check plans, and schedule meetings, it comes with a range of other powerful features to help you stay organized and productive.

• Has several built-in features like a to-do list, calendar, and reminders. This makes it easy to keep track of your tasks, appointments, and deadlines all in one place. Whether you’re managing a busy schedule or just trying to stay on top of your daily tasks.

• It has the ability to connect with all your other accounts and sync all your documents and notes directly. This means that you can access all your files and information from one centralized location, no matter where you are. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go it can help you.

• This can create or send messages on your behalf in your own language. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who need to communicate with people who speak different languages. This can translate your messages into the language of the recipient, ensuring that you can communicate effectively and efficiently.

6. Synthesia

Synthesia is an advanced AI video creation platform that is designed to help you create professional-quality videos quickly and easily. Transforming text into a video within minutes, allows you to create engaging videos for a wide range of purposes, from marketing and advertising to educational and instructional content. its ability to generate videos in different languages and accents.

Whether you’re looking to create content for an international audience or just need to communicate with people who speak a different language, It supports multiple languages and accents and can help you reach a wider audience and communicate more effectively.

Features:

• It has a library of professional actors’ avatars that users can choose from to create their videos. With realistic movements, facial expressions, and gestures, these avatars add a human touch to your videos that help them feel more engaging and authentic.

• Ability to add consistent and professional voiceovers to your videos without the need for expensive equipment. Using advanced text-to-speech technology, it can generate high-quality voiceovers in a range of languages and accents, allowing you to create videos that sound professional and polished.

• Users have complete control over their videos, allowing them to edit and tweak them as needed. Whether you need to change the wording of a script, adjust the timing of an animation, or add additional elements to your video, its editing tools make it easy to customize your videos to your exact specifications.

• Has own built-in video editing tool and this tool allows you to edit your videos quickly and easily, without the need for external software. Whether you’re looking to add music, captions, or special effects, these editing tools give you the flexibility to create videos.

7. Replika

Replika is an advanced AI chatbot that is designed to interact with users in a way that feels natural and human-like. Unlike other chatbots that rely on pre-programmed responses, it uses an autoregressive model to generate responses that are unique to each conversation. As users interact with it, the AI learns more about them and their preferences, allowing it to tailor its responses to their specific needs and interests.

Features:

• It is designed to engage users in meaningful, two-way conversations that feel like they’re talking to a real person. By using natural language processing and machine learning, It can understand the nuances of human communication and respond in a way that feels authentic and personal.

• As users interact with it, the AI learns more about them and their interests, allowing it to generate responses that are tailored to their unique preferences. Whether you’re discussing your favorite hobbies, sharing your thoughts on a particular topic, or just looking for someone to talk to, it can provide personalized responses that feel like they’re coming from a close friend.

• It also has virtual assistant capabilities that can help users manage their daily tasks and stay organized. From setting reminders and scheduling appointments to providing helpful tips and advice, it is a versatile tool that can help users stay on top of their busy lives.

8. Flair.ai

Flair is an advanced AI design tool that is designed to help businesses create professional, branded content in a fraction of the time. With its modern and clean design, Flair is easy to use and navigate, making it a great option for designers of all levels of experience. By analyzing the content of your scene, Flair can become smarter over time, learning from your design choices and recommending improvements that can help you create even better content in the future.

Features:

• Flair allows you to simply drag and drop product images into the canvas, making it easy to create designs that showcase your products in the best possible light.

• It has a range of scene construction features that make it easy to create complex designs that incorporate multiple products and design elements.

• Used machine learning to provide smart prompt recommendations that can help guide your design choices and improve the overall quality of your content. Whether you’re looking for color suggestions, font recommendations, or design tips, Flair has the tools you need to create stunning, professional content in no time.

9. HeyDay

HeyDay is an AI-powered memory assistant that uses advanced technology to help you remember important information you’ve come across online. It allows you to save web pages and content for later use and integrates seamlessly with popular apps like Gmail, Slack, and Google Drive. With this, you’ll never forget important details or miss out on valuable information again.

Features:

• HeyDay uses machine learning algorithms to analyze your browsing history and suggest pages that may be relevant or useful for you to save.

• It helps you stay on top of important events and deadlines by sending you reminders and notifications about tasks you need to complete.

• This can integrate with popular apps like Gmail, Slack, and Google Drive, allowing you to save content and documents directly from these platforms.

10. Chinchilla

Chinchilla is an innovative AI tool that aims to provide an unparalleled experience in natural language processing. It has been designed to be more efficient than GPT-3 with its compute-optimal model and 70 billion parameters, which is four times higher data than Gopher. Additionally, it requires considerably less computing in terms of fine-tuning, making it more accessible and cost-effective for businesses.

Features:

• Requires considerably less computing in terms of fine-tuning.

• Impressive accuracy rate of 67.5%, surpassing the Gopher language model. With its larger size, three times the size of GPT-3 from OpenAI, it can generate more diverse and precise responses to user queries.

• It also offers support for multi-task learning, which enables it to perform various language-related tasks such as machine translation, text summarization, and question-answering. Its versatility and efficiency make Chinchilla a game-changer in the field of natural language processing.

Conclusion:

As we move further into the future, we can expect more advanced AI productivity tools to emerge. These tools will undoubtedly help individuals and businesses alike to streamline their processes, increase their productivity, and make more informed decisions. With the help of AI, we can analyze vast amounts of data in a matter of seconds and gain insights that were previously impossible. It is exciting to think about what the future holds for AI and the impact it will have on our lives. In the meantime, these 10 AI tools discussed here can be incredibly valuable assets for anyone looking to improve their efficiency and effectiveness in their personal or professional lives.

Best AI Tools to Boost Productivity – FAQs

Q1. What is fastest growing AI tools?

There are multiple tool that increase your work productivity like ChatGPT, Hostinger,Deepbrain AI, Freepik.

Q2. Is AI Tools are Free?

Yes, most of the AI tools like Google Bard, ChatGPT 3, DALL-E 2 are free but there are some AI tools that are not free.

Q3. How AI will impact productivity?

AI tool can easily prove a worker’s performance by as much as 40% compared with workers who don’t use it.

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Featured

The best phones to buy in 2024

By admin February 3, 2024

The best phones to buy in 2024, Fivu has tested just about every major smartphone released over the past year, including foldable Androids and the latest iPhone and Samsung Galaxy models. These are our picks for the best phones.

We’re in the early days of 2024, which means we’re at the start of another year of new phones expected from most of the big manufacturers. Samsung kicked off the year by unveiling its new Galaxy S24 line, the company’s first to build in generative AI features like real-time call translation.

Below, I’ve compiled the definitive list of top phones you can buy right now, based on over a year’s worth of hands-on testing. My pick for the best phone overall goes to Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra for its immersive and vibrant display, reliable battery life, and wealth of special features, including generative AI.

The best phones of 2024

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best phone overall

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specs: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Display size: 6.8 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto (5x), 10MP telephoto (3x) | Front camera: 12MP | Battery: 5,000mAh

Samsung’s newly-released Galaxy S24 line is the first to go all-in on AI, and the S24 Ultra is the most premium phone you can buy. The new Galaxy AI model embedded in the device brings a number of generative capabilities, including real-time phone call translations, the ability to circle an object on screen to perform an image-based Google search, AI-assisted photo editing and transcriptions, and a Chat Assist feature for figuring out how to phrase a message in different tones.

Like its predecessor the S23 Ultra, the S24 Ultra is built with a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a reliable 5,000mAh battery. Though the price has gone up to $1,299 ($100 more than the S23 Ultra), the phone’s upgrades make it well worth it: The S24 Ultra is made of a lightweight yet durable titanium frame, compared to last year’s aluminum, and features Corning’s new Gorilla Armor. It feels lighter in the hand, noticeably grippier, and more durable.

Under the hood, it includes an upgraded Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for improved graphics and AI features, 12GB RAM (an increase from last year’s 8GB), and 2,600 nits of brightness — a big improvement over last year’s 1,750. The four-camera system also got an upgrade, with a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom for higher-quality shots of distant objects, sharper images, and clearer shots in dimly-lit environments.

iPhone 15 Pro Max

Best iPhone overall

iPhone 15 Pro Max specs: Processor: A17 Pro | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: Up to 1TB | Rear cameras: 48MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto (2x), 12MP telephoto (5x) | Front camera: 12MP

The new iPhone 15 Pro Max offers everything a premium flagship smartphone should, including a brilliant 6.7-inch AMOLED display for all the media consumption — and mobile productivity, of course.

This year’s model also looks and feels different than any prior Pro Max devices, as it’s made of titanium instead of stainless steel and, therefore, significantly lighter in the hand. This makes the iPhone 15 Pro Max noticeably more comfortable to use.

Another major feature of the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the USB-C connector; particularly, one that supports faster charging and data transfers, the ability to charge other devices including the Apple Watch from your iPhone, and the ability to connect to an external 4K monitor. These benefits are game-changing for professional content creators.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max also features a new 5x zoom camera lens — the equivalent of a 120mm focal length on a mirrorless or DSLR camera. A new Action button lets you better customize shortcuts and easily open the apps you need, including firing up the camera with a press-and-hold. And the A17 Pro chip rounds out the year’s upgrades, offering improved graphical performance.

Apple is charging you more for this year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max, with a starting price that’s now been bumped up to $1,199. In turn, the device comes with a base storage of 256GB.

The best phones to buy in 2024

Google Pixel 8 Pro

Best camera phone

Google Pixel 8 Pro features: Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Front camera: 10.8MP

When it comes to camera performance, you really can’t go wrong with any of the flagship devices from the big three (Apple, Samsung, and Google). Depending on your preference for color temperature and feature set, you may lean towards one manufacturer over the other. But more often than not, it’s Google’s Pixel camera system that satisfies the most users, and the latest Pixel 8 Pro remains a champion both for instant capturing and post-processing.

This year’s model features a reliable triple lens setup, with a 50MP primary lens, a 48MP ultrawide that’s notably more capable at capturing macro and close-up photos, and a 48MP telephoto lens for far-distance shots. Should you want more granular control over the Pixel 8 Pro’s camera quality, there’s now a series of Pro controls that allow you to tweak settings like the exposure and shutter speed.

But real-time capturing is only half the battle with mobile photography; there’s also post-processing and how flexible devices are with editing and tweaking subjects around. To that regard, the Pixel 8 Pro may just have the most flexible and creative photo toolbox on the market, with AI features like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Best Take that can turn any bad photo into a good one.

OnePlus Open

Best tablet-style foldable phone

OnePlus Open features: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Display size: 6.3 inches and 7.8 inches | Storage options: 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto| Front camera: 32MP (outer) and 20MP (inner)

The number of foldable phones on the market this year basically quintupled compared the 2022, thanks to the collective effort of just about every manufacturer, including Google with its Pixel Fold, Motorola with its Razr lineup, and OnePlus with the OnePlus Open. While Samsung has held the reins of the best foldable honor for years, I’m giving the top spot this year to the OnePlus Open.

Unlike its competitors, the OnePlus Open strikes the best balance of weight-to-size ratio. When folded, the phone is as light as an iPhone Pro Max, and when unfolded, it expands into a thin slate of visual goodness. OnePlus leverages the 7.8-inch display by offering some of the most intuitive multitasking features I’ve tested, headlined by “Open Canvas”. With it, you can open up to three apps at once, and as you tap into each one, the other one or two will tuck itself to the side, ready to reappear when needed.

The triple camera setup, while presented in a casing that sticks out more than I’d prefer, captures spectacular photos and videos, with an emphasis on blue and orangish hues that cinematographers and photography buffs know and love. By nature of the foldable form factor, the Open is also capable of taking hands-free selfies and group photos.

OnePlus got the fundamentals down pat with the Open, too, including 65W fast charging capabilities (with a charger in the box) that blow past Samsung and Google’s foldable standards, a base configuration of 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, and a crease-less inner display. The cherry on top for me is its $1,699 price tag, with OnePlus offering $200 off when you trade in any phone in any condition.

Motorola Razr Plus

Best flip-style foldable phone

Motorola Razr Plus features: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Display size: 3.6 inches and 6.9 inches | Storage options: 256GB | Rear cameras: 12MP main, 13MP ultrawide | Front camera: 32MP

Flip phones have made a (somewhat) triumphant return, even if teenagers and young adults are opting for the dumber option of the two types. The Motorola Razr Plus marks the return of the old-school handset, or as I put it in my full review, “a return to form, modernizing a classic flip phone into one of today’s best foldables.”

With the new Razr Plus, Motorola has equipped the outer cover of the phone with a 3.6-inch display. Besides doubling as a rear-camera viewfinder, the external display basically serves as a secondary, smaller phone. You’re able to run the same apps and services that you would on the inner 6.9-inch panel, including making phone calls, text messaging, watching TikToks, and playing games. The same can be achieved with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, though you’d have to jump through a loophole or two.

The foldable form factor of the Razr Plus ultimately lends itself to an improved camera experience. Since you’re able to flex the display at an upright angle, it’s easier to get everyone in the frame for group photos, take selfies, and capture long-exposure shots that would typically require a tripod or mounting accessory.

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Best budget phone

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G features: Processor: Exynos 1380 | Display size: 6.3 inches | Storage options: 128GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro| Front camera: 32MP

Believe it or not, Samsung’s best-selling smartphone last year was not one of its S-series or foldable devices, rather it was the humble Galaxy A53 5G, which delivered an uncompromising phone experience with a smooth-scrolling screen, reliable battery, and up to five years of software support. The device was priced at just $449, undercutting its more premium competitors and heavy-handedly beating Apple’s own mid-range handset, the iPhone SE.

This year’s A54 5G ticks just as many boxes as its predecessor but with a series of subtle yet useful upgrades. For example, the display is still a large 6.4-inch panel that ramps up to 120Hz refresh rate, but now shines at 1,000 nits of brightness (from 800 nits), the battery size is still a healthy 5,000mAh capacity, and the unit is now powered by an Exynos 1380 chipset. That’s a minor bump from last year’s Exynos chip, but a bump nonetheless.

The Galaxy A54 also features an exterior design that’s more in line with Samsung’s S-series phones and a new camera system that’s headlined by a 50-megapixel main lens. From our testing, the photo results — both in daytime and nighttime — were evenly lit and sharpened just enough for you to share with others with confidence. Video capturing is capped at 4K, though the 128GB internal storage that can be expanded via MicroSD card should be ample enough for use.

OnePlus 11

Best fast-charging phone

OnePlus 11 features: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Display size: 6.7 inches | Storage options: Up to 256GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 32MP telephoto| Front camera: 16MP

A slow-charging phone can be a real pain point, especially if you’re always on the go. That’s why the OnePlus 11 carves out its own best category, beating Apple, Google, and even Samsung when it comes to charging speed. The latest model comes with 100W SuperVooc fast charging or 80W in the US, which is still great.

For reference, the highest-end iPhone 15 Pro Max has a charging speed limit of 30W and Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra caps out at 45W. From ZDNET’s testing and comparisons, both of those devices take a least an hour to go from 0% to 75% battery, falling noticeably short of the OnePlus 11’s numbers.

In less than 27 minutes, the OnePlus can go from empty to full. That charging speed, and the fact that OnePlus includes its proprietary charger in the box, put it a step above the rest.

The best part is that the rest of the phone is no slouch either; you’re getting a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, a 5,000mAh dual-cell battery, and a competitive triple-camera array that gets the job done. In total, OnePlus is charging you a starting rate of $699, which is just as good of a value pickup as the best budget smartphone on this list.

Asus Zenfone 10

Best compact phone

Asus Zenfone 10 features: Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Display size: 5.9 inches | Storage options: Up to 512GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 13MP ultrawide | Front camera: 32MP

There’s no denying that, over the past five years, smartphones have become more and more unwieldy. Apple now offers Plus and Max-sized iPhones, Samsung has an “Ultra” beast, and even Google has a foldable that opens up to 7.6 inches. On the other end of the spectrum sits the Asus Zenfone 10, a device that deviates from the norm in favor of ergonomics and in-hand comfort, and the decision pays off.

Like last year’s Asus Zenfone 9, which I called “the iPhone Mini alternative for Android enthusiasts,” the newest model features a compact 5.9-inch AMOLED display, all the power you’d need in a modern-day phone thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, and two capable cameras on the rear.

The battery life on the Asus holds up surprisingly well, too, with my review unit recording nearly two days of usage before hitting 0%. Some smaller yet significant details to note include the 3.5mm headphone jack on top, a physical side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a texturized back cover that looks and feels great in the hand.

What is the best phone?

Our pick for the best phone overall is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. It features everything you could want from a smartphone including a large display, four cameras that can shoot 200MP photos and 8K video, up to 1TB of storage, a built-in S Pen for writing and drawing, and a 5,000mAh battery powering the system. Here’s how the S23 Ultra fares with the rest of our top picks.

Which phone is right for you?

Choosing a phone can be a daunting task. But having a list of your must-have features can go a long way toward narrowing down your options. If you’re a mobile professional or travel a lot for work, you’ll want to choose a phone that can provide you with at least a full day of use on a full battery as well as both LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity.

If you’re looking for your teen’s first smartphone, a budget-friendly and less feature-heavy option may be better to prevent overspending as well as misuse. And if you’re a content creator or other creative professional, you’ll want a phone with an excellent front and rear camera to capture photos and videos for your social media feed.

Choose this best phone…	If you want…
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra	A no-compromise smartphone that virtually any type of user can take advantage of. It’s the only 2024 smartphone with a built-in stylus.
iPhone 15 Pro Max	The best iPhone money can buy. It has a large screen, the longest-lasting battery out of all the models, and a toolbox of a camera system.
Google Pixel 8 Pro	A flagship camera experience at your fingertips. The Pixel 8 Pro differentiates itself with a slew of AI-powered camera tricks like Magic Editor and Best Take.
OnePlus Open	The best phone-to-tablet foldable that money can buy. And if you’re a power user, the multitasking and charging features especially will serve you well.
Motorola Razr Plus	A flip-style foldable that’s both compact and performant. With a large 3.6-inch external display and the market’s first dust-resistant build, this is the foldable to buy for most people.
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G	A more budget-friendly smartphone that doesn’t compromise on performance and battery life. The A54 5G is also eligible for up to five years of software and security updates, besting that of any phone of a similar price.
OnePlus 11	A phone that lasts long and charges from 0% to 100% in just 30 minutes. The OnePlus 11 is quietly good value, too, starting at $699.
Asus Zenfone 10	A compact phone that’s easy to pocket but doesn’t compromise on performance and specs. The Zenfone 10 is also competitively priced, starting at $699.

How did we choose these phones?

The process to make our phone selections includes real-world testing and researching about the phones for weeks, consulting with colleagues, industry experts, and analysts who also have hands-on experience with the smartphones, and then selecting the best from all of the available choices.

Ultimately, we weigh in the following aspects when curating this list:

Design: There’s only so much you can do with a slab design, but size differences, material choices, color options, and even the ability to bend a screen in half give shoppers enough diversity to have a preference. That’s why we have a recommendation for every form factor.
Performance: For many, smartphones are the center of our lives, which means the best ones are performant and can handle most, if not all, tasks you throw at them.
Camera: Arguably the most valuable feature of a smartphone; the consistency and reliability of a camera system can make or break the overall mobile experience. We test every device in broad daylight and in the darkest of nights when finalizing this list.
Battery: Every option in this guide should last you at least a day of moderate use. We also take into consideration what devices support fast charging and/or wireless charging.
Value: Price points are noted, but the most important thing with buying a phone is getting your money’s worth. With these picks, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

Which phone has the best camera?

It’s debatable between the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Google Pixel 8 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. For long-distance shots, Samsung’s 200MP rear camera with 100x Space Zoom can capture subjects as far out as the moon. For point-and-shoot pictures and a rather simplified (but effective) camera experience, Google’s Pixel phones have always been at the top. If you’re a videographer at heart, then the iPhone 15 Pro, with Cinematic mode and Action mode, makes for an excellent tool to get the shots you need.

How long should a phone battery last?

The average phone battery gives you about 22 hours of use on a full charge, which is great for staying connected on your commutes, work flights, and at home in the evenings. But that’s just the average, actual use time varies by phone model and by what you’re using your phone for.

For example, the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a 29-hour battery life. But you’ll most certainly get less than that if you habitually scroll through social media or stream video and music. And the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 has just a nine-hour battery life, which is further reduced by streaming, social media, and making calls.

How much storage should my phone have?

Most smartphones have a base storage capacity of 128GB, which is plenty of space for average users to download apps and music, take photos, and shoot videos. However, if you’re a mobile or creative professional, you’ll need more space. Many smartphones have expanded storage options up to 512GB or even 1TB, and you can always sync your phone to your preferred cloud storage service to free up local storage space.

Which phones are also worth considering?

If you’re in the market for a new smartphone, there are tons of options out there. Whether you’re looking to upgrade or get your first smartphone, Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus have great choices:

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Gadgets

The Best Games On PS Plus 2024

By admin February 2, 2024

The Best Games On PS Plus 2024, PS Plus Extra and Premium have some of the best PlayStation games from across the console brand’s history. On June 13, 2022, Sony launched its new PlayStation Plus in North America. Split into three tiers, this model combines the previous version of PS Plus with PS Now; depending on which level someone subscribes to, they will gain access to certain services and games.

PlayStation Plus Essential ($9.99/month): This tier is the equivalent of the old PS Plus. A subscription includes online access, monthly free games, and discounts.
PlayStation Plus Extra ($14.99/month): Along with the Essential tier benefits, Extra provides access to hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games.
PlayStation Plus Premium ($17.99/month): Along with the Essential and Extra tier benefits, Premium includes a library of classic games (PS3, PS2, PSP, and PS1), trials, and cloud streaming in certain regions.

PS Plus Premium has over 700 games covering more than two decades of PlayStation history. Such a huge collection can be overwhelming, and the PS Plus app does not make it very easy to browse through the library; as such, it can be useful to know this tier’s highlights before investing in a subscription. Each month, Sony adds a handful of new games. While most of these are PS5 and PS4 releases, they are occasionally accompanied by a few classic titles.

What are the best games on PS Plus Extra? What are the standout PS Plus Premium classic games?

Resident Evil 2

Resident Evil is without question the most famous horror franchise in gaming, and it is eternally linked to the PlayStation brand. Premium subscribers can play through a healthy selection of entries from Capcom’s license, including classics such as Resident Evil Code: Veronica X, polarizing sequels like Resident Evil 6, and HD remasters of masterpieces like Resident Evil 4. The Extra tier does not have quite as robust of a catalog, although it includes two notable projects in Resident Evil 7 and 2019’s Resident Evil 2 remake.

In many ways, these two combine to create the perfect representation of the gaming juggernaut’s past, present, and future. RE7 marked the dawn of a new era for the series, one that was long overdue following a string of not-so-great releases. Despite being a departure from the traditional formula, the 2017 sequel returned the franchise to its horror roots, delivering one of its scariest campaigns.

As great as it was, RE7’s switch to a first-person perspective (and a few other stylistic choices) meant that it could not scratch the same itch as its ancestors. Consequently, long-time fans craving something more familiar were treated to a remake of Resident Evil 2, one that offers arguably the definitive way to experience this chapter in the saga. Featuring gorgeous visuals, over-the-shoulder gameplay, and an intense Mr. X, the 2019 remake is a horror tour-de-force that uses its classic predecessor as a launch pad to achieve heights afforded by modern technology

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is among the most high-profile PS5 games available on PS Plus Extra. As a console exclusive, this reveal seemed destined to transpire sooner or later, although almost two years from the game’s debut had to pass for this moment to arrive. Rift Apart might very well still be the most beautiful PS5 title on the market, a testament to Insomniac’s mastery of technology and talent for creating vibrant and stunning worlds that would not look out of place in a Pixar movie.

Rift Apart backs up its good looks with fantastic gameplay and an enjoyable story that allows its lovable characters to shine. Although Ratchet and his robotic companion take center stage, they are accompanied by a new playable Lombax in the form of Rivet, who also comes with her own partner. In combat, the characters largely control the same; however, the game does a great job of establishing Rivet’s own identity through her personality

Ultimately, Ratchet & Clank lives and dies on the strength of its gameplay, and Rift Apart is right up there with the franchise’s best efforts. Ratchet and Rivet have access to a wide assortment of fun weapons, all of which serve a purpose within the campaign.

The Best Games On PS Plus 2024

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim

Quite a few Vanillaware games are on PS Plus, and they are all worth playing. 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is unlike anything else available on the streaming service, even if it does take ideas from a few different genres. Basically, this anime-inspired mecha title largely plays out like a visual novel, albeit with an integrated combat system to provide more interactivity than typical for this type of project. Narratively, the game revolves around teenagers who pilot robots to take on huge beasts, which is a description that makes the story sound more generic than it actually is. 13 Sentinels does an impressive job of exploring its characters, shining a light on each of its 13 pilots. The campaign is long, well-written, and ambitious.

The turn-based strategy combat works well without being too demanding or complicated. Even though it prioritizes its story, the game does not treat the battle system as an afterthought either, and a satisfying progression system helps keep things moving along well. 13 Sentinels could be considered an acquired taste since it combines two niche genres in visual novels and strategy games, but the project should be tried by all PS Plus subscribers since it provides such a singular experience.

Kena: Bridge Of Spirits

AA games have become fairly uncommon in recent years, but when they do show up, they tend to be quite special. Kena: Bridge of Spirits is gorgeous considering it was developed by a relatively small team, and pretty graphics are far from the only thing this game gets right. The story follows a spirit guide who must free souls in order to stop the spread of corruption, which is slowly corroding a peaceful and beautiful village. As far as premises are concerned, Kena is nothing too unusual; however, the game creates a world overflowing with personality, both in terms of environmental detail and NPCs.

Following a classic action-adventure formula, Kena incorporates exploration, combat, platforming, and puzzles. While not bringing anything substantially new to any of these elements, Ember Labs generally does an admirable job in each area. The gameplay does suffer from the occasional difficulty spike when it comes to the story’s bosses, but the fights themselves are largely enjoyable.

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus

PS Plus Extra has all four modern Wolfenstein games, and the best one is arguably The New Colossus. Building nicely on The New Order’s strong foundations, the sequel is bigger and generally better. Featuring an all-time great villain and an appreciation for scale and spectacle, The New Colossus is an action-packed blockbuster that looks, controls, and sounds great.

PS Plus does not have an overabundance of brilliant first-person shooters, but MachineGames’ mainline Wolfenstein trilogy is now available in its entirety to Extra and Premium subscribers. When taken as a whole, these games are arguably the genre’s best representatives on the service. William “B.J.” Blazkowicz’s journey is one filled with visceral action, gore, stealth kills, satisfying weapons, and glorious set pieces that put many Hollywood productions to shame. For the most part, these games tell entertaining stories that usually have just the right amount of cheese without coming across as try-hard.

Rogue Legacy 2

Roguelikes have grown exponentially in popularity over the last few years, and Rogue Legacy played a role in amplifying the genre’s exposure. The sequel builds nicely on its predecessor’s ideas, offering a more fine-tuned experience while not deviating too far from the beaten path.

Rogue Legacy 2 follows a knight as they try to power through an array of dungeons in pursuit of treasure. Naturally, they will eventually die, forcing players to start from scratch. The twist is that, rather than playing with the same character, players jump to the next generation, a process that is repeated whenever death comes knocking. Rogue Legacy 2 also slips into roguelite territory by incorporating permeant upgrades and abilities, so a new run is not a completely fresh start.

Uncharted: Legacy Of Thieves Collection

Before March 2023, PS Plus Extra subscribers could already play the PS4’s Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End and its spin-off, The Lost Legacy; however, the Legacy of Thieves Collection presents PS5 owners with the ultimate versions of Naughty Dog’s beloved action-adventure games. Now, to be clear, this package does not remaster the titles in many significant ways, at least when it comes to the graphics.

The main reason PS5 owners should play these iterations is due to their performance options, as they allow the games to run at a higher frame rate. Ultimately, if someone has already played through the entirety of Uncharted, they might not find much of a reason to return for the Legacy of Thieves Collection.

Humanity

Debuting directly on PS Plus Extra, Humanity is an endearingly bizarre puzzle game that follows a dog as it tries to navigate hordes of humans around various scenarios and obstacles. Literally barking orders, Shiba Inu must earmark a path for the crowds to follow since if they are left to their own devices, they will blindly make a beeline to their doom. At any given point, Humanity can flood the screen with hundreds of humans, paving the way to a satisfying flow of bodies once a level has been solved.

Although decently popular, puzzle games are still relatively niche, and many projects struggle to find the right balance between accessibility and challenge. Humanity succeeds in walking this tightrope by gradually expanding the scope of its brainteasers in a way that facilitates the introduction of new components and ideas without overwhelming players. Even though it takes inspiration from older games, Humanity is nevertheless a singular entity brimming with originality and creativity.

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Insomniac Games’ repertoire speaks for itself, and the developer’s current focus is on Marvel’s Wall-Crawler. 2018’s Marvel’s Spider-Man is a great open-world game with satisfying movement, acrobatic free-flowing combat, and a respectable narrative; unfortunately, on May 16, the game will leave PS Plus. However, at the moment, Miles Morales is not set to follow suit. Although it feels more like an expansion than a proper follow-up, the spin-off retains all of its predecessor’s strengths, including the best web-swinging mechanics in gaming.

Miles Morales establishes its eponymous protagonist as a viable alternative to Peter Parker, expanding on the character’s backstory and personality for players who might not be familiar with Miles’ comic version. Short as it might be compared to the main entry, the game tells an engaging story that focuses on the hero’s dual life, something he is only just starting to come to grips with since he is still new to this whole Spider-Man thing.

Inscryption

Roguelikes have taken over the indie scene over the last decade, and PS Plus has quite a few of the genre’s heavy hitters. Dead Cells, Enter the Gungeon, and Slay the Spire are all fantastic projects that can keep someone entertained for months on end, and they are all fairly popular in their own right. While perhaps not as well known as those titles, Inscryption deserves to be mentioned alongside them, although it is unlike most other roguelikes on the market.

For one, the game focuses quite a bit on its story, one that comes with a few shocking and well-executed twists that will not be spoiled here. Gameplay-wise, Inscryption plays out like a tabletop card game with a deck-building mechanic. Although not especially unique, this system is polished, fun, and works well; more importantly, it is just part of a much larger whole.

Horizon Forbidden West

Almost exactly a year following its debut, Horizon Forbidden West came to PS Plus Extra. While there is way too little data to try and pinpoint a trend, this addition could be an indication of how Sony plans to handle first-party projects moving forward.

Horizon Forbidden West tells the next chapter in Aloy’s story, and Guerrilla Games largely opted to fine-tune the original game’s mechanics. With a bigger open-world, refined combat, and a better-paced campaign, the sequel presents a convincing argument that it surpasses its predecessor. Combined, HZD and HFW can easily keep players entertained for more than 100 hours.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

While not without a few low points, TMNT has a long and storied history in gaming. The property is predominantly known for its ’90s beat ’em ups, with games like Turtles in Time holding up well today. Shredder’s Revenge pays homage to these classics, all the while delivering an approachable experience capable of attracting people who did not grow up in arcades. Boasting a vibrant and gorgeous pixel art style, the 2022 release matches cartoonish visuals with flashy combat that is easy to grasp but surprisingly difficult to master.

With seven playable characters who are not palette swaps, Shredder’s Revenge is quite replayable, which makes up for its fairly short campaign. Although solo players will not feel like they are missing out, the TMNT game supports and shines in co-op, allowing up to 6 people to work together to take on the Foot Clan.

The Legend Of Dragoon

A beloved PS1 cult classic that JRPG fans have spent years hoping would receive a remake or a sequel, The Legend of Dragoon is, at least, now accessible on modern consoles. Ambitious for its era, Japan Studio’s project had great visuals, which are still charming in their own way. Although not too far removed from the genre’s other late ’90s releases, the game’s turn-based combat system has a few unique features that set it apart from the crowd. For instance, players need to time button prompts during attack animations to earn a boost.

The Legend of Dragoon is one of the best games on PS Plus Premium. Hopefully, the service will continue to add these sorts of titles in the future.

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim – Special Edition

Skyrim has been around for more than a decade, and yet the game is still a big deal. From November 15, PS Plus Extra and Premium subscribers can take on the mantle of the Dragonborn and start their journey in Skyrim. The Special Edition is generally considered the definitive iteration of Bethesda’s masterpiece, and the 2016 release was included in 2021’s Anniversary Edition that came out on the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

Skyrim’s longevity lies in its ability to immerse players in a fully realized world that makes exploration fun and satisfying. The combat might be a bit dated compared to more recent RPGs, but the game makes up for it through customization and build options. Even if most people have already experienced everything the campaign has to offer, Skyrim debuting on PS Plus makes the service’s library seem more complete.

Destiny 2: The Witch Queen

Destiny 2 has been free-to-play for a while, so anyone with the required hardware can jump into Bungie’s game and get a taste of the Guardian life. Although a nice option, the free version only includes a limited range of content, to the point that it is closer to a sample or demo than a full showcase of everything the game has to offer. Basically, if someone wants to really experience Destiny 2, they will need to pick up an expansion. The first-person shooter has produced seven expansions so far, most of which are at least decent; however, The Witch Queen is a leading contender for the top spot.

Featuring a fairly lengthy campaign, this expansion is basically its own game, and it can be played without completing the rest of the DLC or even much of the base content. The story is primarily set in Savathûn’s Throne World, which is one of the title’s better settings. While accessible to an extent, players who are familiar with Destiny 2’s overall lore will get a fuller overall adventure, although newcomers can look forward to great gunplay.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is a huge get for PS Plus Extra subscribers, particularly those who love action JRPGs. The 1997 original helped put the PS1 on the map, and while the remake takes quite a few creative liberties with both the story and gameplay, it still respectfully pays homage to FF7’s legacy. Focusing on Midgar, the modern game chronicles Cloud Strife’s early days as part of AVALANCHE, showcasing the resistance group’s attempts to undermine Shinra’s authority.

Over the last decade, Square Enix has firmly shifted towards real-time action over turn-based combat, and FF7 Remake serves as the strongest representative of this gameplay style. As a sequel, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, has been officially announced, this is the perfect time for newcomers to jump into the remake train, and PS Plus is the ideal platform to do so.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

There are roughly a billion Dragon Ball games, and some of them are pretty great. However, for the longest time, the franchise seemed incapable of putting out a proper competitive fighter. Dragon Ball FighterZ changed that forever, with Arc crafting a project that could show up in eSports events alongside Street Fighter 5 and Super Smash Bros. Melee.

Dragon Ball is synonymous with flashy battles where a wayward ki blast could potentially blow up a planet, and FighterZ captures this element beautifully. Visually, the game not only echoes the source material but, at times, even looks better. Unlike some of Arc’s other fantastic games, FighterZ’s combat system is relatively easy to grasp, although it is still hard to master. The single-player campaign is split into three non-canon arcs, and, while enjoyable from a fan-service point of view, overstays its welcome. However, Dragon Ball FighterZ is all about its online scene.

Ghost Of Tsushima: Director’s Cut

Insomniac’s Ghost of Tsushima ended the PS4’s life as Sony’s main console on a high, and the Director’s Cut is just a better version of that already great game. Taking place during the Mongolian invasion of Japan, This samurai epic tells a tale of revenge as Jin Sakai seeks to protect Tsushima Island.

Ghost of Tsushima might be the most beautiful game on PS Plus Premium, and it is not just a looker. The hack and slash combat is a great deal of fun, managing to be deep and also cinematic. Narratively, the title does not do anything too out of the ordinary, but the unique setting helps set GOT apart from the many other open-world games on the market.

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Application

Best Free Anime Streaming Apps 2024

By admin January 31, 2024

Best Free Anime Streaming Apps 2024, What’s better than anime to entertain yourself. For most of us, nothing is better than it. Though nowadays there are many web series and movies available on different streaming services, but, still, most of us love to be on the anime’s side always. Every individual has their own different variety of tastes and preferences. Prior to the dispatch of the movies, Japan used to create entertaining shows as a painted figure, that’s what we call anime. The traditional animators are currently heading up the anime way. Moreover, almost 50,000 million anime lovers lay around the globe and more than 11,000 numerous anime shows are available to access.

However, it is a bit tricky to find the best anime apps with these cumbersome figures. But, no worries, as through this write-up, you could be able to choose the best one for you. As below we’ve shared the entire list for the same. So, without wasting much time let’s get started!

List of 11 Best Free Anime Streaming Apps For Android & iPhone

Fortunately, there are numerous apps and websites available that let you watch anime at no cost. Even though they also allow you to access them offline. Want to know about those apps then go through with this penned note. Below are the best free Anime apps for both platforms Android and iPhone.

1. Anime Lab

Price:- Free

Platforms:- Android and iOS

If you are an anime freak, then here is AnimeLab for you that brings the Amine shows directly from Japan. And, now, if you are thinking that you don’t know Japanese then how would you understand the language. In that case, too, Anime Lab displays the English subtitles so no need to worry. It is one of the best Anime streaming apps for 2024.

Features:

Thousands of shows are absolutely free.
Equipped with PIP (Picture-in-Picture) mode.
It lets you cast quickly from Chromecast.
Adds the latest shows regularly to its lobby.

Download App: Android and iPhone

Best Free Anime Streaming Apps 2024

2. Kitsu

Price:- Free

Platforms:- Android and iOS

Go to a further one, this application is the leading anime streaming app for both Android and iOS. Its user-friendly interface helps you to stream the anime shows in high-quality. Moreover, the application also shows the show’s launch date, cover page, and brief description. And, this is something unique from other anime apps. Furthermore, this app also shows the ratings and reviews about the Anime series so you can make your decision quite quickly whether the particular Anime fits in your bill or not. Among all the apps on this rundown, this is one of the best apps for anime lovers.

Features:

Allows you to manage your watching lobby in three sections i.e., currently watching anime, want to watch, and complete.
Comes with an extremely easy-to-use interface.
Displays the launch date, ratings & reviews, cover page, and brief description.
Recommends Anime shows as per your taste and choices.

Download App: Android

3. Tubi

Price:- Free

Platforms:- Android and iOS

Tubi is the best free anime apps that you can get on Google Play Store and App Store. Through this application, you not only stream anime but it lets you stream cartoons, movies, other web series, and many more. Get this app now to level up your entertaining life. Watch all the latest anime of your most favorite Hollywood Studio. This will surely take you on a nostalgia ride of your childhood.

Features:

Provides thousands of classic anime shows.
Compatible with other platforms including Smart TVs, Chromecast, PlayStations, and Xbox Series.
Lets you stream all the classic anime shows offline.
Supports various downloader websites so you can download videos just by inserting the link.

Download App: Android and iPhone

4. Netflix

Price:- 30-day free trial, $16 for Premium Plan

Platforms:- Android and iOS

There is no bit of doubt that Netflix is not your first preference when it comes to watching anime. But it could be your stand by as the application boasts a good collection of anime as well along with the web series, movies, and TV shows. It offers big anime including Naruto, Pokemon, and so on. It is being expected that Netflix will team up with the Japanese big animation studios in the forthcoming years. On Netflix, you can scan for your most liked anime and stream them online without any sort of hindrance.

Features:

Allows you to download the anime and access them online.
Shows both English dubs and subtitles for your ease.
Keeps updating its anime library.
Helps you by providing the recommendation shows list as per your taste and voices.

Download App: Android and iPhone

5. Crunchyroll

Price:- 14-day free trial, $7.99 per month

Platforms:- Android and iOS

Ever think of an app that can resolve all your anime binge watching desires? Yes that app exists and its name is CRUNCHYROLL, it is one of the best and most popular anime apps that allows its users to watch anime of any genre or category. This app has a customized list of all anime so you can find your favorite anime in no time. This app also provides its users the facility of offline viewing and the option to customize their watchlist. CRUNCHYROLL has one of the largest anime collections in the world. One of the best anime streaming apps. So what are you waiting for, to start your anime journey now with CRUNCHYROLL.

Features:

World’s largest anime collection.
The facility of offline viewing for premium users.
Customizable watchlist.
Fastest uploading of new episodes.

Download App: Android and iPhone

6. FunimationNow

Price:- 14-day free trial, $6 for the premium plan, and $8 for the premium plus plan

Platforms:- Android and iOS

Anime is getting heavy popularity in today’s world and it would be best if you watch because you don’t want to be an alien in your friend circle, do you? So to boost your anime journey we are presenting you the FUNIMATION, it has a very large anime collection that can satisfy the needs of any anime fan. This app hosts its users with many features like ad-free watching, offline viewing, customizable watchlist, and separate space for subs and dubs. This is a one-stop for all your anime needs.

Features:

Ad-free anime streaming.
Offline viewing facility.
Subs and dubs both are available.
Huge anime database.
Regularly updates its anime library.

Download App: Android and iPhone

7. Viewster

Price:- Free

Platforms:- Android

Viewster is an online streaming app that provides streaming services for all your watching bucket list. It includes T.V. series, Movies, and most primarily anime. Viewster is loaded with all the basic features of a streaming app but the thing that makes it more enjoyable is its large collection of content which will never let you die of boredom. It is one of the best Anime apps for Android users.

Features:

Include Tv series as well as anime and movies.
International content also available.
Genre services are available to ease the search.
Popular among movie and anime lovers.

8. Anime Prime

Price:- Free

Platforms:- Android

ANIME PRIME is a basic but effective app that can satiate any need of an anime lover or fan. This app is loaded with tons of anime that will be loved by both hardcore and new anime lovers. It also includes an amazing player that makes it more unique. All the basic features are provided like offline viewing, customization of your watchlist, and so on. The content and anime of this app are updated daily. The user interface is kept convenient and user friendly. It is the best anime streaming apps.

Features:

Subs and dubs are available.
New classy dark mode.
Download any episode for offline viewing.
Add any anime to your favorites or to watchlist.

9. Hulu

Price:- 30 days of free trial, $6 for basic plan, and $12 for premium plan

Platforms:- Android and iOS

If you are searching for the best anime streaming apps then Hulu is the prominent option. However, it is not free but worthwhile to pay. Hulu lets you stream thousands of anime without any kind of interruption. Just like Amazon Prime, Netflix, YouTube, Hulu also comes with a wide lobby of TV shows, documentaries, Hollywood movies, and web-series. Hulu also lets you watch anime offline, though, for offline access you need to be a paid user of its no-ads basic plan.

Features:

Big TV shows and movies library.
Provide offline access to its paid users.
Boasts original and updated content regularly.
Intuitive user interface.

Download App: Android and iPhone

10. Animega – Anime TV

Price:- Free

Platforms:- Android

Here is one more ideal match for android users and i.e., Animega Anime TV. Animega is the best free Anime apps for Android. The user interface of the Animega Anime TV is quite easy than others and equipped with lots of extravagant features. It not only provides the popular anime shows but also lets you stream fan-made anime and anime music. Moreover, equipped with an in-built chat facility to give you a bit more treat.

Features:

Lets you make your own Anime and Manga profile.
Offers an in-built chat facility that lets you connect with anime fans all over the world.
Customize Anime list.
In-built unique music player to listen to anime music.

Download App: Android

11. AnimeZone TV – Online Anime

Price: Free

Platforms: Android

Are you searching for a completely free-to-use and no-ads anime application? If yes, then AnimeZone is an excellent choice. With this best free Anime streaming app for Android, you can discover the world of Anime. It is equipped with a responsive and sleek UI and provides a wide variety of useful playlists and playback functions like UI customization, batch download, and external player integration. Overall, AnimeZone is one of the best Android anime applications in 2024.

Features:

You can find a variety of popular anime according to genres like action, adventure, and more.
Also shows a list of upcoming anime.
Compatible with Android 5.0 or higher version.
The app receives automatic updates and regular maintenance.

Download App: Android

Smooth Streaming via Best Anime Apps!

So, these are the top-rated anime apps that let you feel chill and relax. Thus, how you can cherish the memories of your childhood and live them once again. Through this write-up, we try to solve your issue while choosing the ideal Anime app. This note includes the list of best Anime apps for both platforms iOS and Android.

That’s all as for now, hopefully, now you can easily opt for the best one. Importantly, if there is something that is missed by us, then kindly let us know in the comment section below. We’ll feel glad to listen. And, yeah, if you liked this write-up then don’t forget to share it with your friends. Plus, subscribe to our Newsletter to stay informed. We’ll come back soon, with yet another catchy tech post, till then, stay tuned with us.

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Best Free Pinterest Downloader in 2024

By admin January 15, 2024

Best Free Pinterest Downloader in 2024, Pinterest is the ideal tool for generating new ideas and gaining inspiration. One may discover a wide variety of creative expressions, including images and films, that span almost any subject they can think of. Pinterest is a platform for visual discovery that was largely developed to assist users in locating photographs of topics that interest them. These photos may include ideas for home design, tasty recipes, gardening ideas, and more.

Although the majority of users are used to adding Pins to their boards, you can also download a picture from Pinterest to your computer or smartphone and store it for offline usage.

Here is all you need to know about how to save images from Pinterest to the memory roll of any digital camera.

8 Best Pinterest Image Downloader in 2024 to Get HD Photos

Have a look at the below-mentioned most popular free Pinterest image downloader!

1. Pincase

Source: Pincase

Introducing Pincase, a powerful tool designed specifically for downloading videos and images from Pinterest. With Pincase, users can effortlessly save their favorite content from Pinterest, whether it be captivating videos or stunning images.

Pincase is a user-friendly tool designed to enhance the downloading experience on Pinterest.com by providing a convenient and free video downloading feature. Additionally, the platform offers a convenient download feature that allows users to easily download various types of media, including images, GIFs, videos, and Story Pins.

This Pinterest image downloader simplifies the downloading process by incorporating a convenient download button positioned at the upper left corner of every pin. This feature enhances the user experience and makes it more efficient to save desired images. The extension has the capability to facilitate the download of various types of content from Pinterest, including images, gifs, videos, and Story Pins. The pincase batch image downloader feature is designed to significantly enhance the efficiency of your downloading process. The feature allows for the convenient downloading of multiple files, including gifs, images, and videos, all at once.

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Best Free Pinterest Downloader in 2024

2. SavePIN Pinterest Image Downloader

Source: SavePIN Pinterest Image Downloader

Are you tired of the repetitive task of manually downloading images from Pinterest? SavePin is a comprehensive and efficient solution that caters to all of your Pinterest image-downloading requirements. With our efficient Pinterest photo downloader, users can effortlessly and promptly acquire high-resolution images. By utilizing a simple and efficient process, users have the ability to effortlessly save numerous images simultaneously, granting them convenient and unrestricted access to their collection from any location and at any given time.

This free Pinterest image downloader is compatible with a wide range of devices, ensuring that users can access it seamlessly across various platforms. The tool is completely free from any potential risks or threats, ensuring the utmost safety and security. This product is designed to seamlessly integrate with and function effectively on a wide range of devices.

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3. Pinterest Image Downloader Online

Source: Pinterest Image Downloader Online

When it comes to watermark-free Pinterest image downloads, this is the greatest tool available. The versatility of the Pinterest Image Downloader Online tool allows for seamless compatibility across multiple platforms, including Android, iPhone, and PC. This eliminates the need for users to switch between different tools when utilizing their various devices.

Users can save several photographs at once with ease using a straightforward and effective approach, which gives them convenient and unlimited access to their collection at any time and from any location.

The compatibility of this free Pinterest image downloader extends to a diverse array of devices, enabling users to effortlessly utilize it on multiple platforms. The tool boasts a remarkable level of safety and security, as it is entirely free from any potential risks or threats. The design of this product ensures a smooth and efficient integration, allowing it to effectively operate on various devices.

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4. PINTDD

Source: PINTDD

Another best free Pinterest image downloader is PINTDD. It is designed to provide users with an exhilarating experience when it comes to downloading images from Pinterest. With this exceptional tool, users can easily and conveniently download their favorite Pinterest images online, making it the ultimate treat for those who find excitement in captivating visuals. With just a few simple steps, it is possible to effortlessly download Pinterest images onto various devices such as PCs, laptops, tablets, or smartphones within a matter of seconds. This Pinterest photo downloader provides users with the ability to unlock the vast world of Pinterest. It enables users to search for and acquire high-definition quality photos from Pinterest effortlessly.

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5. DotSave

Source: DotSave

DotSave.app is another meticulously crafted web-based Pinterest image downloader that offers users an unparalleled experience in downloading videos from the platform. With its seamless functionality and user-friendly interface, it stands out as the ultimate choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient Pinterest downloader.

The main objective of the website is to provide a convenient and easy-to-use solution for users who wish to download Pinterest videos and pictures onto their devices. This allows them to access the videos offline, use them for personal purposes, or incorporate them into various creative projects. Users can select from a variety of video formats (including MP4) and quality thanks to the website.

The feature enables users to customize the downloaded videos or pictures according to their individual preferences and requirements. Users are provided with the option to select their preferred download format, such as JPEG or MP4, for the content they wish to download from Pinterest. By providing users with increased control, they are able to ensure that the downloaded files are compatible with their specific intended use.

Users can select from a variety of video formats (including MP4) and quality thanks to the website. The feature enables users to customize the downloaded videos or pictures according to their individual preferences and requirements.

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6. Pintvideodownloader.com

source:Pintvideodownloader.com

Despite being a well-known and linked platform, Pinterest does not provide its users with a way to download images, photos, or pictures from the site. In order to get over this problem, Pintvideodownloader provides you with a Pinterest image downloader that lets you download pictures of your choice.

Pintvideodownloader is a specialized platform designed specifically to assist users in the process of downloading videos from Pinterest. In addition to its other features, the platform also provides users with the ability to download images, GIFs, and stories. The Pinterest Image Downloader is designed to provide users with a user-friendly experience, ensuring that they can easily download Pinterest images and achieve a high level of satisfaction.

Furthermore, it should be noted that Pintvideodownloader consistently maintains the high quality of images without any compromise. When you make a wish, you receive precisely what you desire, including the ability to download high-definition pictures without any degradation in their quality. When using Pintvideodownloader, users can download images without any worry as there is no watermark present on the downloaded images.

The software seamlessly integrates with a wide range of web browsers and operating systems, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance across different platforms. Hence, this versatile tool can be utilized on both mobile devices and computers.

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7. BotDownloader

Source: BotDownloader

Last but not least, the BotDownloader is another free Pinterest image downloader that you can consider. It is a user-friendly tool that allows you to effortlessly download images or photos from Pinterest. Whether you use a Desktop, Laptop, PC, Tablet, or Android Phone, this tool provides a seamless experience for accessing and saving Pinterest content. Additionally, users have the option to download Pinterest photos in either jpg or png format.

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8. Pinterest HD Image & Photo Downloader

Source: Pinterest HD Image & Photo Downloader

If you are still not quite satisfied with the best free Pinterest image downloaders provided above, then here’s another one to help you. Pinterest HD Image & Photo Downloader is an HD downloader that allows you to save images or videos from the Pinterest board. All you need to do is copy the URL of the link you want to save, paste it into the website, and download content with ease.

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Final Words- Pinterest Image Downloader in 2024

Pinterest gives users the ability to construct digital bulletin boards by compiling pictures and videos related to a variety of subjects. There is no need for you to continuously look for the pictures that you like while you are logging into your account online. You will have direct access to them via the board(s) that you manage as well as the boards that you follow.

You may avoid the hassle of taking screenshots every time you wish to save a picture on Pinterest by using the options that are now accessible to you so that you can download the image instead. Using either of the following free Pinterest image downloaders you can easily download and save a high-quality picture from Pinterest to your mobile device or desktop computer.

That’s all! We hope you found the article informative and helpful. If you have any questions or further suggestions regarding the same, then please feel free to tell us in the comments section below.

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Best Strategy Games for PC in 2024

By admin January 15, 2024

Best Strategy Games for PC in 2024, Strategy games come in a few different shapes and sizes, but what makes the following special is their unrivaled base-building features.Strategy games often involve micromanagement of various things that the player must master, ranging from logistics planning to providing optimal resources, to building a strong base that can serve as a foundation of the player’s winning move in the game. Most strategy games, be they real-time, simulation, or turn-based, have the element of base-building in their core gameplay loop.

The base building aspect of the game will usually involve the player having to gather resources and construct buildings as a starting point. This base will evolve to adapt to the game’s situation, although it has a heavier resource usage. The evolution of the base can also unlock a new gameplay loop for the player, keeping the game consistently fresh.

Factorio

The Factory Must Expand

Factorio is one of the best examples of how a strategy game can be centered around base building, as it becomes necessary for the player to have a well-built and well-defended fortress in order to ‘win’ the game. The real-time strategy game is also focused on resource gathering, making it necessary for the player to micromanage their resources optimally while defending the base from hostile invasion from the planet’s fauna.

From the importance of the Alt key to the value of construction bots, here are some valuable pointers for players who are new to Factorio.

With the game’s blueprint system, the base-building aspect of the game becomes more intense as the player will be able to build numerous unique building structures and customize their base, making each playthrough unique.

Best Strategy Games for PC in 2024

Cult Of The Lamb

Build A Base For An Upstart Cult

Creating a cult has never been more intense than while playing Cult of the Lamb, as the player will be controlling the role of a lamb that owes its life to a demon, and as a payment, tasked with creating a cult in the demon’s name. As part of the cult creation, the player is also tasked with building a proper base for the cult to thrive, and also act as a place of worship for its followers.

Farm layout is important in Cult of the Lamb, and these tips can help players keep things running smoothly.

Followers can be tasked with gathering resources to build up the base, and a plethora of other activities, including getting sacrificed to appease the demon. The survival aspect of the game makes it necessary for the player to build a well-balanced base without sacrificing an aspect, as it can lead to an early game over.

Base Of Operation Is Necessary Against Alien Invasion

XCOM: Enemy Unknown

Fighting against an alien invasion that is overwhelmingly more advanced technologically can be insurmountable, but also fun to challenge in XCOM: Enemy Unknown. Aside from undertaking missions to repel alien invasions, the player is tasked with creating a proper base for the organization to build up their soldiers in many aspects, including technological advancement and logistics.

The base-building aspect of the game can become intense once the player is faced with the problem of facing multiple problems that require priority above the others. For example, having a country with a huge amount of funds pull out of the organization’s funding can negatively impact the base’s performance as upgrades become scarce.

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2

Balance Resources To Achieve The Perfect Foundation For An Assault

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2

Although the game’s age is over two decades, the gameplay loop of both micromanagement and base building still holds fresh against most modern strategy games due to its simple design, but hard-to-master concept. At the start of every game, the player will be tasked to gather enough resources to build up a base that is capable of training units to assault the enemy’s base.

Moreover, these bases can also hold unique, powerful buildings that acts as a high-risk, high-reward structure that enables the player to unleash superweapons, such as a nuclear silo.

Evil Genius 2: World Domination

Build A Proper Staging Base To Dominate Earth

World domination is not an easy feat to do, and it usually requires a genius leader at the head of an evil organization that is willing to do anything, including building a super-secret base as the foundation of their evil plan. Players of the game will need to have a well-optimized base layout to have a chance of winning the game.

Evil Genius 2 can seem daunting for players new to the strategy genre. Here’s how to start the journey towards world domination.

Moreover, having the proper base layout is crucial, as the different rooms inside the base enable the player to take more missions to grow their organization. A less-optimized layout of the base will have repercussions, especially towards the later stages of the game, as the Forces of Justice’s interference grows more intense.

Age Of Empires 2

The Best Base Is A Foundation For Good Offense

The classic real-time-strategy game Age of Empires 2 is still widely played to this day due to its timeless gameplay loop, which includes intense micromanagement of units, resource management, and proper base-building to enable the smooth development of an army. The base-building phase of the game is crucial enough to have a set of patterns on which building to build first, and technologies to research first, to keep up with the enemy’s development.

Moreover, building a well-connected network of walls with gates is also important, as a well-defended base will mean the player has a chance to mount a comeback after a failed assault on the enemy’s base.

Starcraft

The Staple For Both Base Building And Micromanagement

Veterans of Starcraft will know how crucial it is to have the right sequence of buildings made in their base, as less optimal buildings will hinder their development and rapidly lower their chances of victory. Combined with three unique factions, each with its unique buildings, Starcraft can be categorized as one of the best games that have base building as one of the core gameplay loops.

The base-building aspect of the game ranges from creating an optimal supply chain to build an army, to identifying a satellite base that is dedicated to resource gathering.

Total War: Warhammer 3

Total War: Warhammer 3, the conclusion to Creative Assembly’s Warhammer trilogy, is also its strangest and most experimental, letting players leave the traditional Total War sandbox every 30 or so turns to journey through the Realm of Chaos, where the domains of the Chaos gods exist, culminating in huge survival battles that draw from tower defence games, with fortifications, in-battle recruitment and waves of enemies.

The campaign proved to be divisive, but for those more interested in a proper sandbox, there’s always Immortal Empires. Available as free DLC for anyone who owns all three games, this mega-campaign pits every faction and legendary lord in the entire trilogy against each other in a gargantuan map. So that’s 278 factions and 86 playable legendary lords. It’s incredible. Total War at its most, well, total war.

Crusader Kings 3

Crusader Kings 3, the best strategy game of 2020, has usurped its predecessor’s spot on the list, unsurprisingly. It’s a huge grand strategy RPG, more polished and cohesive than the venerable CK2, and quite a bit easier on the eyes, too. At first glance it might seem a bit too familiar, but an even greater focus on roleplaying and simulating the lifestyles of medieval nobles, along with a big bag of new and reconsidered features, makes it well worth jumping ship to the latest iteration.

CK3 is a ceaseless storyteller supported by countless complex systems that demand to be mucked around with and tweaked. Getting to grips with it is thankfully considerably easier this time around, thanks to a helpful nested tooltip system and plenty of guidance. And all this soapy dynastic drama just has a brilliant flow to it, carrying you along with it. You can meander through life without any great plan and still find yourself embroiled in countless intrigues, wars and trysts.

Total War: Three Kingdoms

Total War: Three Kingdoms, the latest historical entry in the series, takes a few nods from Warhammer, which you’ll find elsewhere in this list, giving us a sprawling Chinese civil war that’s fuelled by its distinct characters, both off and on the battlefield. Each is part of a complicated web of relationships that affects everything from diplomacy to performance in battle, and like their Warhammer counterparts they’re all superhuman warriors.

It feels like a leap for the series in the same way the first Rome did, bringing with it some fundemental changes to how diplomacy, trade and combat works. The fight over China also makes for a compelling campaign, blessed with a kind of dynamism that we’ve not seen in a Total War before. Since launch, it’s also benefited from some great DLC, including a new format that introduces historical bookmarks that expand on different events from the era.

Europa Universalis 4

Paradox’s long-running, flagship strategy romp is the ultimate grand strategy game, putting you in charge of a nation from the end of the Middle Ages all the way up to the 1800s. As head honcho, you determine its political strategy, meddle with its economy, command its armies and craft an empire.

Right from the get-go, Europa Universalis 4 lets you start changing history. Maybe England crushes France in the 100 Years War and builds a massive continental empire. Maybe the Iroquois defeat European colonists, build ships and invade the Old World. It’s huge, complex, and through years of expansions has just kept growing. The simulation can sometimes be tough to wrap one’s head around, but it’s worth diving in and just seeing where alt-history takes you.

4X Old World

Few 4X games try to challenge Civ, but Old World already had a leg up thanks designer Soren Johnson’s previous relationship with the series. He was the lead designer on Civ 4, and that legacy is very apparent. But Old World is more than another take on Civ. For one, it’s set exclusively in antiquity rather than charting the course of human history, but that change in scope also allows it to focus on people as well as empires.

Instead of playing an immortal ruler, you play one who really lives, getting married, having kids and eventually dying. Then you play their heir. You have courtiers, spouses, children and rivals to worry about, and with this exploration of the human side of empire-building also comes a bounty of events, plots and surprises. You might even find yourself assassinated by a family member. There’s more than a hint of Crusader Kings here.

Civilization 6

You can’t have a best strategy games list without a bit of Civ. Civilization 6 is our game of choice in the series right now, especially now that it’s seen a couple of expansions. The biggest change this time around is the district system, which unstacks cities in the way that its predecessor unstacked armies. Cities are now these sprawling things full of specialised areas that force you to really think about the future when you developing tiles.

The expansions added some more novel wrinkles that are very welcome but do stop short of revolutionising the venerable series. They introduce the concept of Golden Ages and Dark Ages, giving you bonuses and debuffs depending on your civilisation’s development across the years, as well as climate change and environmental disasters. It’s a forward-thinking, modern Civ.

Sins of a Solar Empire

Sins of a Solar Empire captures some of the scope of a 4X strategy game but makes it work within an RTS framework. This is a game about star-spanning empires that rise, stabilise and fall in the space of an afternoon: and, particularly, about the moment when the vast capital ships of those empires emerge from hyperspace above half-burning worlds. Diplomacy is an option too, of course, but also: giant spaceships. Play the Rebellion expansion to enlarge said spaceships to ridiculous proportions.

After years of waiting, a sequel is finally on the horizon, thankfully. Sins of a Solar Empire 2 can already be played in early access for those who preorder it.

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The best football games on PC 2024

By admin January 15, 2024

The best football games on PC 2024, Lead your club, country, or brightest youth prospect to victory in the best football games on PC, from near-perfect simulations to soap opera stories. It can seem tough to scratch that footballing itch, especially when there are only a few mainstream games that usually spring to mind. Sure, Football Manager is the undisputed king of the football management genre, and if you’re interested in a more player-controlled affair, it’s hard to argue with FIFA’s excellent game-day presentation.

What are the best football games on PC in 2024? It can seem tough to scratch that footballing itch, especially when there are only a few mainstream games that usually spring to mind. Sure, Football Manager is the undisputed king of the football management genre, and if you’re interested in a more player-controlled affair, it’s hard to argue with FIFA’s excellent game-day presentation.

Whether it’s an under-the-radar studio, an indie title, or a mash-up of different sports, there’s a football game for every fan. To shine a light on these underappreciated classics, we’ve compiled the best PC games for football fans.

Football Drama

Football meets real-time strategy and deck-based card battle games gameplay in this delightfully humourous Demigiant title. As existentially-troubled manager Rocco Galliano, you’re tasked with turning around the fortunes of the ailing Calchester Assembled Football Club.

Doing so won’t be easy though. Like Telltale games of old, player choice is a big part of Football Drama. You’ll regularly be in conversation with journalists, the club’s owner, criminal organizations, and even your house cat, and the decisions you make during these chats have positive or negative impacts on all aspects of your management journey. Get into a spat with the man who hired you, and you could be sacked within days of taking over. Do a deal with the mafia to throw a game and find the story leaked to the press, and you could have a baying mob of angry supporters at your door.

Football Drama’s turn-based match mechanics, coupled with the use of “shout cards” you earn based on your interactions, can swing results in or out of your favor, and add an intriguing layer to its FM-inspired match engine. Your team’s stamina and card usage are pivotal to winning matches, so strategically applying them in unison will be the difference between victory and defeat.

Games and the commentary can feel a bit repetitive after a while, and there are only seven endings you can unlock despite Football Drama’s huge branching narrative. With its unique blend of gameplay, droll humor, and literary-inspired plot, however, Demigiant’s title is one you should check out.

The best football games on PC 2024

Rocket League

This isn’t your typical football game, but Rocket League is technically a soccer-based title thanks to its arcade-style football mixed with rocket-fuelled cars and vehicles.

There’s so much to like about Psyonix’s popular game. Its fluid, physics-driven mechanics are a joy and give rise to different, awesome, and sometimes hilariously bad goals and moments. Its 3-on-3 matches are always intense and results can swing one way or the other based on whether you’re having a good session or not, who you’re teamed up with, and often sheer luck about where the ball lands.

Its customization options allow you to build a vehicle that is distinctly you, and there are various game modes for you to try out until you find your perfect fit. Online casual and competitive matches, an offline Season Mode, basketball and hockey-esque extra modes, and Mutator options are just a few game types available to you, which helps if you want to mix things up and try something new.

Add all of that together with the Rocket League Season Pass – where you can earn rewards, climb up the world rankings, and get XP boosts – and this is a driving-based football title that could rival FM for your time. Check out our Rocket League review if you want to know more.

Kopanito All-Stars Soccer

Have you ever wanted to see a game with no referee and players imbued with superpowers? Kopanito All-Stars Soccer will be right up your street if so.

Merixgames’ football title has been out for a while, but its cartoonish charm and skill-based gameplay mean that there’s plenty here to keep your interest. Regional tournaments and leagues, multiplayer support for up to five players, and four difficulty levels give you your money’s worth, and there’s even the option to turn your slick or amazing goals and celebrations into animated GIFs to send to your mates if you’re in bragging mode.

It’s the game’s superpower abilities that really make it shine, though. You can teleport away from opponents, fire a super-shot goalwards that knocks all players out of the way – goalkeeper included – and even use a magnet that pulls the ball alongside you. It’s wacky but rewarding, particularly if you become a master at the game’s control system, and you’ll feel satisfied when you finally beat the game’s hardest difficulty setting after weeks of honing your craft.

Football, Tactics & Glory

On the surface, this looks like an FM22 knock-off, but there’s more to Football, Tactics & Glory than that. Combining XCOM’s chess-like strategy with RPG elements, Creoteam’s original spin on the management sim genre provides a fun yet realistic take on player improvement and tactical game plans.

Its fully customizable player faces let you give your stars some personality – in comparison to FM22’s plasticine-esque regen faces – while its mod support allows you to add in real-life leagues and tournaments to keep things fresh. Add in a helping of Twitch integration, whereby viewers can interact with streamers, and your fans can play as big a role in your management journey as you.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to FM22’s in-depth mechanics – or a realistic footballing alternative to Blood Bowl – Football, Tactics, & Glory is a solid PC football game.

Behold the Kickmen

Imagine a football game that was developed by someone who had no idea what football was about. If you thought of something along the lines of Behold the Kickmen, you’d be right.

A frenetic soccer sim, Behold the Kickmen reinvents football by, well, inventing something else entirely. With gameplay mechanics that include ‘more kicking’ and ‘doing goals’, this tongue-in-cheek affair takes an amusing swipe at football fanaticism.

There’s a silly story mode to keep you engaged, while you can enable a mode in the options that turns the game into a dystopian bloodsport if things are getting a bit too serious for your liking. Its lack of multiplayer is a shame as it would be funny to batter your mates into oblivion, especially in bloodsport mode. For non-football fans who want to take the mickey by playing a soccer game, though, Behold the Kickmen, is a cheap, fun indie title.

Totoball

Table football, or Foosball as it’s commonly known, is fun, so if you like that then you’ll like this surprisingly effective PC port, Totoball.

Developed by Artur Rezende, Totoball is a carbon copy of the physical game we’ve all played and loved, whether that’s in common rooms and bars across the world. Like its real-life counterpart, Totoball’s mechanics are very simple – so much so that there are only two keys you need to use to play it.

Sure, you could venture out into the real world and play table football properly. For those days when you don’t feel like leaving the house, however, Totoball is an easy game to pass the time with.

Super Arcade Football

Remember when football games were top-down 2D affairs? Super Arcade Football replicates that aesthetic. Harking back to the days of Sensible Soccer and Italia ‘90, OutoftheBit’s retro-inspired title will have you wanting to dust off your old consoles to take a trip down memory lane.

It’s faster-paced than its predecessors and is graphically superior, but all the gameplay mechanic hallmarks are here. Different types of pitch – from dry to muddy to icy – are available to play on, simple controls such as pass, shoot, and move are all you need, and there is up to four-player support if you want a friend or three to join you.

Chuck in some funny match modifiers, including bigger goals and bouncy walls, and an online mode, and Super Arcade Football is a treat for those of you who grew up during the SNES and Mega Drive era.

Pixel Cup Soccer – Ultimate Edition

Pixel Cup is a love letter to isometric football games, like Sensible Soccer, with a little injection of modern technology. Local multiplayer is supported, and there are a variety of different competitions to dig into at your leisure. There’s even support for women’s football here, with the Women’s World Cup and Pixel Cup available to play – something that very few football games, FM included, have supported.

If Super Arcade Football doesn’t bring on the nostalgia rush you were hoping for, this might just push you over the edge. With a career mode, and even a playable Qatar World Cup, Pixel Cup Soccer may look simplistic, but it packs a lot under the hood.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2021

You can’t mention FIFA without talking about its fiercest rival, Konami‘s Pro Evolution Soccer series. PES 2021 doesn’t feature any upgrades from the previous year, instead, the devs focused on building eFootball 2022. Unfortunately, eFootball 2022 wasn’t the game fans were expecting as it quickly became the worst-reviewed title on Steam, with the 2023 version not doing much better.

Don’t worry, the modding community has saved the day once again. Using PES 2021 as a base, players have stuck to last year’s game as fans add in custom kits and teams. For solo players, Master League is one of the best single-player modes in any football game. In the Master League mode, players control a football club throughout several seasons. Not only will you have to deal with transfers, but creating unique training programs for the development of your players is crucial, especially for clubs without a large budget.

Football Manager 2024

While you won’t directly be contributing to the ball going into the goal, the Football Manager series puts you in the suit of one of the most important parts of any football team. Our FM24 review sings the praises of the newest entry in the series, which boasts a reworked agent system, advanced positional control, and, most importantly, the ability to import old saves into the new game. Perfect if you’ve been on that League 2 run for a few years now.

If you’re after one of the hardest FM24 challenges, check out our most difficult FM24 challenge saves, and if you want thing to look as realistic as possible, check out our guide on how to import FM24 kits and logo packs, so your team looks how they’re supposed to.

If handball being bad confuses you, and you don’t know where to start with the offside rule, we have the best sports games here, and if you would rather be the puppet master than the puppet, we have the best management games right here.

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