Batman Arkham Trilogy won’t make its debut on Switch til’ December

Remember when Rocksteady Studios and Warner Bros. Games dropped the news about the Batman: Arkham trilogy swinging its way to the Switch this autumn? Well, a tiny update on that.

This bundle won’t feature Batman: Arkham Origins since it’s the brainchild of the Gotham Knights crew over at Warner Bros. Games Montreal. Now, we were all set to dive into Gotham on October 13, but it seems we’ll have to hang tight a bit longer. The new launch date? December.

“More time is needed to bring players the best possible experience on Nintendo Switch. We apologise to fans who are excited to play this version of the trilogy. Thank you for your patience.”

The big reveal about Rocksteady’s Batman trilogy for the Nintendo Switch happened during the Nintendo Direct in June. This epic collection bundles together Batman: Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, Arkham Knight, and – drum roll, please – all the DLCs for these games. Quite the treat, huh?

Now, here’s a fun fact: while this is the debut of Rocksteady’s Arkham series on the Nintendo Switch, it’s not their first dance with Nintendo. Remember the special edition of Arkham City on the Wii U? Yep, that was a thing!

Batman: Arkham Origins APK DOWNLOAD

For those who might be scratching their heads, here’s a quick rundown: Arkham Asylum is a more intimate affair, with all the action unfolding within the eerie walls of the asylum itself. Arkham City? That’s where things get grander, taking you on a whirlwind tour of Gotham City.

And then there’s Arkham Knight, which, besides all its awesomeness, brings the Batmobile into the spotlight, making it a key part of your gameplay. So, whether you’re a Bat-veteran or a newbie, there’s a lot to look forward to!

Moonring: Free RPG for Ultima lovers

Dene Carter, the brilliant mind behind iconic titles like the original Fable and Bullfrog’s cherished Dungeon Keeper, has just dropped his latest masterpiece, Moonring, on Steam. And guess what? It won’t cost you a dime!

Moonring, as Carter puts it, is a “retro-inspired open-world, turn-based, tile RPG in the style of the classic Ultima games.”

This game is crafted “from the ground up with modern design sensibilities.” Dive into the enigmatic realm of Caldera, a world filled with “Devotion and Dreamers, Gods and Gifts,” where you’ll step into the shoes of the Dreamless. Fun, right? We thought so too!

Steam DOWNLOAD

About Moonring

Moonring isn’t just another game; it’s a full-blown experience. Imagine an expansive world brimming with items waiting to be discovered, flexible character development with cool skills, and some intriguing, albeit slightly puzzling, systems to master. Remember those old-school keyword conversations that split opinions? Yep, Moonring’s got them. But, breathe easy, it also comes with modern comforts like auto-noted keywords and a nifty autosave feature every time you embark on a dungeon. So, if things go south, you’re right back at the beginning, turning each dungeon into its own little roguelike adventure.

And for those with a penchant for the high seas, there’s naval exploration and ship-to-ship combat. We’re totally on board with that (pun intended)!

But wait, there’s more! The game mechanics here are genuinely intriguing. While your character boasts health, there’s also a regenerating poise system that cushions you from health damage. This makes tactics like stealth and strategic retreats invaluable. The dynamic interplay of fire and light is another feather in its cap. And did we mention the elemental interactions? Get drenched, and you’re resistant to fire but susceptible to Rot effects. The magic system, influenced by the five moons and their phases, is another layer of complexity, with each deity’s powers shifting based on the moon’s phase.

Carter left a personal message on the Steam page:

“Hi folks. I’ve loved RPGs since the early 1980s, and grew up playing games like Lord British’s ‘Ultima’ series and early Roguelikes. This is my love-letter to a style of gaming that has largely fallen out of fashion: with its vivid, bright sprites overlaid on stark black backgrounds, true open-world gameplay, and lack of handholding. The days I spent playing these games were spent in joyful exploration and discovery, venturing into the dark unknown, a co-author of the experience, filling in the gaps left by the primitive art with my imagination. For those of you who did the same, I hope Moonring recaptures some of the spirit of those days for you. For those who did not, I hope that the more modern conveniences you find in this game allow you to catch a glimpse of what we did 40 years ago. My heartfelt thanks to all who spared even a moment to play this. Please be kind to my mistakes. I will fix them. :-).”

You can download the game from Steam:

Steam DOWNLOAD

Honda to accept Bitcoin and crypto payments

Taking a bold step that underscores a transformative moment in the car market, Honda is now joining forces with the prominent blockchain payment platform, FCF Pay, ushering in the age of cryptocurrency transactions.

This pivotal collaboration not only underlines Honda’s devotion to technological advancement and customer-centricity but also mirrors Japan’s escalating enthusiasm for Web3 solutions.

By welcoming an array of digital currencies, including the renowned Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple, along with trending meme coins like Shiba Inu and Dogecoin, Honda is redefining the boundaries of financial engagement with its clientele.

Binance DOWNLOAD

Honda’s crypto leap

By embracing this change, Honda isn’t merely catering to the growing demographic of crypto enthusiasts; they’re also demonstrating their dynamic approach toward novel tech frontiers. Having established itself as a vanguard in the ever-evolving world of digital currencies, FCF Pay now brings to Honda’s clientele the convenience of purchasing with their favored digital treasures, making the entire transactional journey sleeker.

Honda’s decision to incorporate meme coins, such as Shiba Inu and Dogecoin, into their payment repertoire reflects their keen awareness of the variegated fabric of the crypto sphere, and their intention to resonate with an expansive audience. To provide a clearer picture, FCF Pay recently shared on Twitter/X an exhaustive catalogue of the digital currencies now accepted by Honda.

Japan’s Web3 pursuit

Japan’s trajectory toward Web3 innovations is gathering momentum, a fact underscored by the governing Liberal Democratic Party’s release of a comprehensive white paper.

This document, brimming with strategies and proposals, delineates the nation’s ambitions to burgeon in the Web3 sector. Honda’s recent alliance with FCF Pay dovetails perfectly with this overarching vision for a technologically advanced Japan.

It’s essential to note, Honda isn’t charting unexplored territory here. Fellow Japanese carmaker, SBI Motor, had already taken the leap, integrating Bitcoin into their payment methods.

And on the global stage, electric vehicle titan Tesla caused quite a stir by welcoming both Bitcoin and Dogecoin for their products. Nissan, another heavyweight from Japan’s automotive lineage, is setting its sights on the potentials of Web3.

Such moves are emblematic of a broader acceptance wave, signifying that digital currencies are not just fleeting tech novelties but are steadily steering the course of numerous industries.

Banking meets crypto

Cryptocurrencies are fast becoming the financial lexicon of not just the automotive domain but also the banking cosmos. HSBC, the UK-based banking behemoth, has made its foray into the digital currency sphere, joining hands with FCF Pay. This alliance facilitates users of HSBC to employ a roster of digital assets, such as XRP, Shiba Inu, and Dogecoin, to address mortgages and loan payments.

Binance DOWNLOAD

The synergy between Honda and FCF Pay, combined with such influential collaborations, underscores a pivotal stride in the journey of cryptocurrency acceptance and the seamless weave of blockchain into the broader financial fabric.

The evolution of crypto transactions signifies more than just technological progress. These avant-garde endeavors promise to recalibrate the very essence of our financial and commercial ecosystems, propelling new avenues and potentials for a global clientele.

Your Gmail might look like LinkedIn soon, with emojis

Ever found yourself drafting an email in Gmail, wishing you could spice things up with emoji reaction choices for those on the receiving end? It appears that such an interactive feature is on the horizon. However, the groundwork for its seamless integration still requires a touch more fine-tuning.

Gmail DOWNLOAD

Gmail is bringing emojis in

As reported by 9to5Google, it seems that Google is earnestly diving into the realm of integrating emoji reactions within Gmail. It’s noteworthy to mention that competitors such as Apple Mail and Microsoft Outlook are already ahead in this game, offering their users the flair of emoji reactions in emails.

An interesting discovery surfaced on the Android-focused blog, TheSpAndroid. A vigilant user, AssembleDebug, noticed that emoji functionalities are somewhat already in motion on mobile Gmail. If you’re attentive, you’d spot an emoji reaction icon sitting snugly beside the reply button, offering a curated selection of reactions for the user’s choice.

In a seemingly user-friendly addition, when tapping the “+” icon next to the emojis, users can indulge in selecting any emoji they desire to use as a reaction. However, there’s a caveat: if you’re sending an emoji-fueled email to a non-Gmail user, they’ll be left in the dark. Instead of viewing your reactions directly in the email, they’ll get a separate email showcasing the larger-than-life emojis you enthusiastically sent.

Diving into the Gmail emoji dynamics, it seems the platform is subtly promoting a sense of exclusivity. These emoji reactions might not play well with emails coming from other service providers. AssembleDebug further sheds light on the limitations; you can’t sprinkle more than 20 emojis in a single email.

Also, if you’re hoping to use emojis to respond to bulk emails, you might want to reconsider. And for those discreetly included in the email via BCC? They’ll have to sit out on the emoji action as they can’t add reactions to the conversation.

Gmail DOWNLOAD

The anticipatory buzz is palpable, and soon enough, emoji reactions should grace the Gmail apps across both Android and iOS devices. While Google remains coy, not making an official announcement regarding this feature, their response to The Verge was a playful tease. They cheekily advised to “stay tuned,” punctuating their statement with emojis.

Overwatch League might be dead after all

Shortly following the Florida Mayhem’s triumphant moment as the 2023 Overwatch League Grand Champions, indications have emerged that the Overwatch League may be drawing its final curtains. Earlier today, via a post on X (previously known as Twitter), Blizzard revealed their endeavors in “building our vision of a revitalized esports program.”

Overwatch 2 DOWNLOAD

The league’s financial turbulence hasn’t been clandestine. Over recent years, tales of the league’s economic challenges proliferated, especially after several advertisers retreated in the wake of 2021’s distressing revelations of sexual misconduct within Blizzard.

Amidst the backdrop of economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, team organizations grappled with managing franchising costs. The Chengdu Hunters, feeling the weight of these struggles, opted for a mid-2023 season disbandment.

The nail in the coffin came when a renegotiation attempt with their Chinese publishing ally, NetEase, failed. Consequently, several of Blizzard’s games, including in Overwatch’s major market, China, became inaccessible and remain so.

Subsequent to these events, a revealing financial document from Blizzard unveiled that franchise proprietors would soon determine the league’s fate. They faced two choices: restructure the league with new parameters or concur on a steep $6 million per team exit fee. While the outcome of this critical vote remains undisclosed, prevailing sentiments hint that the owners, navigating an already challenging esports environment, might opt for the monetary exit.

In the wake of such unsettling revelations, Overwatch League’s director, Sean Miller, conveyed a glimmer of hope. He articulated that regardless of the franchise owners’ eventual decision, competitive Overwatch is poised to forge ahead post the 2023 season.

According to a The Verge interview, “I want to be clear on one thing in particular, that Overwatch remains committed to a competitive ecosystem in 2024 and beyond,” stated Miller.

Overwatch 2 DOWNLOAD

This year still holds promise for competitive Overwatch enthusiasts. Blizzard remains steadfast in its commitment to championing diversity in esports, evident as they persist with their inclusive tournament, ‘Calling All Heroes’, and continue the globally celebrated World Cup programming.

While there hasn’t been formal verification the underlying sentiment in the Overwatch League community strongly suggests that we’re witnessing the end of the Overwatch League as we’ve come to know it.

Leaked Pixel 8 ad unveils Best Take and color options

Google, renowned for its prowess in AI, has always brought innovation to its phone cameras. Remember the Magic Eraser that could magically wipe away unwanted elements from your photos? Well, with the Google Pixel 8, it seems they’ve added another intriguing AI feature to their repertoire.

A recent leak from @MysteryLupin (as reported by The Verge) unveiled a promotional video for the Pixel 8 series. The video kicks off by highlighting the simplicity of transitioning to Pixel, then delves into its photography capabilities. The standout feature? It’s called Best Take. It can potentially be a game-changer.

Best Take

This Best Take feature, hinted at in earlier leaks but only now seen in action, captures a series of photos and fuses them to craft the optimal composite image. Now, we know what you’re thinking: composite images have been around for a while, right?

They’re often used for HDR shots. But with the Pixel 8, it’s not just about blending different light exposures. Instead, it’s about mixing and matching facial expressions, poses, and more to create a picture-perfect result—think of it as a photogenic Frankenstein’s creation.

Google DOWNLOAD

Accessories

While the video showcases many familiar features, eagle-eyed viewers might spot another peek at the much-anticipated and frequently leaked Pixel 8 Pro. And if you’re hungry for more Pixel 8 tidbits, you’re in luck. Leaker @Za_Raczke recently showcased a range of what seem to be official Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases on X.

For those of you eyeing the Pixel 8, get ready to jazz up your phone with cases in delightful shades of Rose, Mint, Charcoal, and Hazel. As for the Pixel 8 Pro aficionados, you’re in for a treat with cases in Bay, Charcoal, Mint, and the elegant Porcelain.

Color speculations

Now, here’s a fun twist: these case colors aren’t mirroring the actual phone shades. Word on the street is that the Pixel 8 might grace us with hues like Haze, Jade, Licorice, and Peony. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro is rumored to dazzle in Sky, Porcelain, and Licorice.

But hey, we won’t be left guessing for long. Mark your calendars for October 4, because that’s when the Pixel 8 series is set to make its grand debut.

iPhone 15 NFC glitches are linked to BMW charging

For those cruising in a BMW with an iPhone 15 in hand, it’s advisable to steer clear of using the car’s wireless charging pad at the moment.

In recent developments, several BMW owners have reported a concerning issue on the digital platform X (previously known as Twitter). After utilizing the vehicle’s integrated wireless charging pad for their iPhone 15 devices, they’ve observed a subsequent malfunction within the phone’s NFC chip.

Following the charging process, the affected iPhones transition into a data recovery mode, characterized by a distinct white screen. Upon rebooting, the NFC chip appears to be non-functional, raising questions about potential compatibility issues between the iPhone 15 and BMW’s charging technology.

“Could Not Set Up Apple Pay”

Within the iPhone’s ecosystem, the NFC chip is integral to functionalities such as Apple Pay and the utilization of digital car keys. Users impacted by this anomaly are confronted with a “Could Not Set Up Apple Pay” error notification when accessing the Wallet application.

iOS 17 DOWNLOAD

As of now, no direct remedy seems to be available. Some users have reported that Apple provided replacements after verifying the NFC chip malfunction. However, these replacement units remain susceptible to the identical glitch, indicating the absence of a lasting resolution.

While the grievances primarily emanate from iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max users, there’s a potential risk for the base iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models as well. Hence, it’s prudent for all iPhone 15 series owners to exercise discretion until a definitive solution emerges.

The exact cause of the problem is still unknown. Additionally, the exact number of impacted customers and the specific BMW models involved in this situation have yet to be determined.

Apple admits the iPhone 15 overheating issue, patch on the way

Addressing the iPhone 15 overheating problem, Apple has announced an imminent update. The tech giant acknowledges that the root of the issue isn’t solely theirs but also involves popular apps like Instagram, Uber, and the mobile game Asphalt 9, among others.

Numerous iPhone 15 users have raised concerns about their devices turning uncomfortably hot.

iPhone 15 overheating will be addressed

On Saturday, Apple stepped forward, confirming their awareness of the iPhone 15 overheating problem. They recognized instances where the device would become excessively hot, whether actively in use or merely charging.

iOS 17 DOWNLOAD

“We have identified a few conditions which can cause the iPhone to run warmer than expected. The device may feel warmer during the first few days after setting up or restoring the device because of increased background activity,” told an Apple spokesperson to Forbes.

Many iPhone 15 enthusiasts have voiced that while they did encounter the iPhone 15 overheating problem initially, it seemed to dissipate once the device’s setup concluded. These fortunate individuals are precisely whom Apple alludes to in their statement. Yet, the company doesn’t stop there; they extend their narrative to empathize with users who haven’t been as lucky.

“We have also found a bug in iOS 17 that is impacting some users and will be addressed in a software update. Another issue involves some recent updates to third-party apps that are causing them to overload the system. We’re working with these app developers on fixes that are in the process of rolling out,” stated Apple.

Apple has pinpointed several third-party applications contributing to the iPhone 15 overheating problem. Notably, Instagram, Uber, and the iOS game “Asphalt 9” were among those specifically highlighted by the tech giant. Forbes reported that Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has already taken steps to mitigate the issue, releasing an update on September 27 to address the overheating concerns.

In a conversation with Forbes, Apple was quick to clarify that the iPhone 15’s hardware design isn’t the culprit behind these heating challenges.

Earlier, Ming-Chi Kuo, a seasoned Apple analyst, theorized that certain design elements of the iPhone 15, like its new titanium frame, might be at the heart of the overheating dilemma. Yet, it’s essential to note that while the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models seem to be more affected, the base iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus users haven’t been spared either. Interestingly, these latter models don’t even sport the titanium frame, further complicating the narrative around the root cause.

Ming-Chi Kuo, a respected voice in the Apple analyst community, postulated that to effectively address the iPhone 15 overheating problem, Apple might have to dial back the device’s performance. Contrary to this, Apple has confidently debunked such speculations. The forthcoming update, iOS 17.1, which is currently undergoing beta testing, promises to rectify the overheating issue without compromising the iPhone’s performance.

Furthermore, Apple has issued guidance concerning the USB-C power adapters used for charging the iPhone 15. Given that this is the inaugural iPhone model to embrace USB-C, some users might inadvertently use USB-C chargers designed for other gadgets. Apple cautions that chargers with a capacity exceeding 20W could lead to the iPhone experiencing temporary warmth during the charging process.

Windows 11 users, don’t fall into the fake password generator scam

Proofpoint’s cybersecurity sleuths just unearthed a sly new malware, putting on its best Bitwarden impression to pilfer precious data from unsuspecting users. Big kudos to Malwarebytes’ Senior Director of Threat Intelligence, Jérôme Segura, for giving them the heads up.

This digital menace, now labeled ZenRAT, is basically like that knockoff purse seller in a digital alleyway. Here’s the sneaky part: The culprits snagged the domain “bitwariden[.]com”, a crafty typo that’s eerily close to the real deal. In the tech world, we call this cheeky maneuver typosquatting. And they didn’t stop there. They meticulously crafted a website that’s the spitting image of Bitwarden’s. Tricky, right?

Windows 11 DOWNLOAD

Windows 11 users, be careful

So, how did these digital tricksters spread the word about their deceptive domain? Proofpoint’s brainiacs are betting on tactics like SEO poisoning, malvertising, or the old-fashioned charm of social engineering.

Here’s the silver lining for Mac and Linux device fans: stroll onto the fake site and hit download, and you’ll be whisked away to a harmless page. But for Windows 11 users – it’s a trap! Click that link, and you’re rolling out the welcome mat for ZenRAT.

Once ZenRAT’s made itself at home, it dials up its command & control pals (or C2, if you’re in the know). This malware then goes on a data-hunting spree. Using crafty WMI queries, it’ll snoop around for your CPU name, GPU name, OS version (did we mention Windows 11 users should beware?), RAM stats, IP details, and even that antivirus software you’re running. And, oh boy, if you’ve stored credentials in your browser, ZenRAT’s snatching those too.

Proofpoint’s sage advice? Stick to trusted digital watering holes when downloading software. Yet, here’s the kicker: even the keen-eyed can be duped. Picture this: a sham Bitwarden ad sneaking onto Google. Given the doppelganger website and the sneaky URL, this scheme can reel in quite the catch.

As for the damage report? We’re still tallying up how many folks have been bamboozled into downloading this treacherous malware.

macOS Sonoma welcomes new Game Mode, learn how to enable it

macOS Sonoma has landed, and it’s not coming alone. Introducing the Game Mode – Apple’s snazzy new feature tailored to elevate your gaming escapades.

Picture this: the moment you dive into your favorite game, Game Mode seamlessly rolls up its sleeves, ensuring your CPU and GPU are firing on all cylinders for that buttery-smooth performance. And wait, there’s more! If you’re a fan of going wireless, Game Mode ensures devices like your trusty controllers and those swanky AirPods respond with the agility of a cat, drastically minimizing latency. Neat, right?

So, why the special attention to gaming, you ask? Apple‘s clearly on a mission. They’re keen on painting the Mac not just as a productivity powerhouse but also as a gamer’s paradise. If you’re nodding along, itching to get started, we’re here to help.

What is the Game Mode of macOS Sonoma?

For every avid gamer, be it on PC or elsewhere, the hunger for hardware that can truly breathe life into today’s graphic-intense games is real. PC aficionados might have their fill dissecting CPU intricacies or debating GPU prowess, but Mac loyalists? Well, they’ve traditionally been at a bit of a crossroads. The longstanding gripe? The limited wiggle room to amp up hardware prowess, leading many hardcore gamers to often side-eye the Mac’s gaming credentials.

While Intel chips had their moments under the sun, the new Apple silicon has ushered in performance levels that were once the stuff of daydreams. Now, modern games on Mac not only run but sprint with a newfound zeal. Yet, while hardware customization, like swapping out for a zippier GPU, remains off the table, Apple wasn’t about to leave its users hanging. Enter the macOS Sonoma’s Game Mode. This nifty tool is Apple’s ace up its sleeve, pushing the envelope to amplify game performance.

Expect crisper video framerates, games gliding smoother with rich graphics, and that pesky latency with wireless gear? Considerably slashed. Game Mode is a potential game-changer!

How does Game Mode actually work?

Wondering what’s under the hood of Game Mode? It’s all about priorities. When Game Mode is turned on, your game is in the fast lane, revving with the CPU and GPU’s full attention. Other apps? They’re taking the scenic route in the background.

iOS 17 DOWNLOAD

How to enable Game Mode in macOS Sonoma?

Fire up a game, and Game Mode slips into gear on its own. Keep an eye out for a heads-up notification and a game controller icon nestled in the menu bar. One click on that icon, and you’re in the know about its active status.

Here’s a tip: For Game Mode to show its mojo, your game should be flaunting its full-screen glory. Opt for a windowed gameplay session, and Game Mode takes a coffee break.

Feel like taking the reins? Click that game controller icon in the menu bar, and you’ve got a handy switch to power Game Mode down or up. A heads up: if you switch off Game Mode and bail on the game, remember to give Game Mode a nudge the next time. It won’t jump in automatically; you’ll have to cue it in.