11 Sep
Blog

The Perfect Exercise For Attaining Well-Built Quads

The quadriceps are a great and efficient exercise whose main purpose is to work your quadriceps. This strength-building workout is aimed primarily at your quadriceps femoris and at the same time uses your core, lower leg, buttocks and hip muscles. A leg extension is used in this workout. It's an isolation exercise that primarily works your quadriceps and is responsible for their strength and tone. It is also beneficial in giving you the ability to perform high level cardio and athletic activities with ease and comfort.

Building your quadriceps is essential to promoting better cardio, endurance, and balance to accomplish daily and athletic activities. You will find this exercise useful. Because of its numerous benefits to your body, it is considered appropriate to add this exercise to your regular exercise program.

The ultimate guide to the leg extension exercise listed below is sure to provide you with all of the information you need to surpass this exercise. So, keep reading this article for a detailed understanding of how to train with leg extensions to get the maximum benefits and provide significant benefits to your body.

How to master the art of the leg extension:

Below is everything you need to know about leg extensions, from step-by-step guides and tips, to common mistakes and variations. So if you follow the contents of this article, you will get all the information you need.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. First, you need to set up the leg extension machine. To do this, adjust the device pad so that it is at the top of the lower legs at the ankles. Your knees should be at right angles to each other.

2. Then take a deep breath as you place your hands on the handrails and lift the weight until your legs are erect.

3. Then slowly lower the weights back to the starting position while exhaling.

Repeat.

Tips to keep in mind:

1. Always make sure you have a quick but efficient warm-up session before doing the leg extensions. This should be done to avoid the risk of serious injury or strain and to target all of your muscles.

2. Remember to keep your back straight and upright by pressing it against the backrest. Always avoid arching and bending your back for maximum benefit.

3. Never block your knees when lifting weights as this could result in injury.

4. Always make sure that you choose appropriate weights and that you are comfortable. Choose weights that will not cause you discomfort.

Common mistakes that are usually made:

1. The first and most important thing to keep in mind is never to choose weights that may cause your body any discomfort or problems. It is therefore always recommended to choose weights that you are comfortable with to avoid the risk of straining the knee ligament.

2. Never repeat more than your capacity or ability as it can be harmful to you and your body.

3. Do not rush through this exercise by lifting and lowering weights quickly. Instead, try to reduce your swing and do this exercise in a gentle and controllable manner.

4. Never twist your knees during this exercise, which will put strain on the knee joints.

Variations of leg extension:

Once you are completely familiar with the performance of the classic leg extension exercise, there are a few variations of it that you can try to add a momentum:

1. Leg extension with resistance bands

This version of the traditional leg extension involves the use of a resistance band. This is perfect for those who can't get an expensive leg extension machine. Make sure to warm up briefly before doing this exercise. All it takes is to be patient and focus solely on performing this exercise. It is also responsible for maintaining mobility and can be done anywhere, anytime.

2. Leg extension with dumbbell

This variation involves the use of dumbbells as well as a real bench. It can also be called a seated dumbbell leg extensor and is considered to be very beneficial in promoting physical strength and endurance. Remember to keep your body in a stationary position and your back straight during this exercise.

Frequently asked Questions:

1. How many leg extensions should I do?

You need to do almost three sets of 8 to 12 repetitions of leg extensions.

2. What do leg extensions use the muscles?

Leg extensions mainly work your quadriceps femoris while working your core, lower leg, buttock and hip muscles at the same time.

3. Can I use resistance bands to do leg extensions?

Of course, you can also use resistance bands for the leg extensions.

11 Sep
Blog

Hatfield Squat: How to Perform Like an Expert

The Hatfield squat is a variant in which, in contrast to the traditional squat, you need a safety squat bar. The Safety Squat Bar is another barbell with neck and shoulder pads. The bar is placed on your back as you crouch. Here you hold the safety frame for the right balance during the entire movement.

Different types of squats help burn calories in a fun way. Aside from burning calories, they will also help you build stronger muscles in your lower body. This avoids the risk of injury and ensures a well-toned body.

Hatfield squat is not common, but it is unfair to underestimate its effectiveness. This exercise enables the performer to perform a painless squat.

Why do you need a safety squat bar?

The Safety Squat Bar is nothing more than another barbell that also has neck and shoulder pads. The motive of these pads is to keep the bar perfectly on the performer's back. When you let your hands free. However, a classic barbell can roll on the floor during the squat.

Muscles targeted by Hatfield Squat

The muscles targeted during the Hatfield Squat are the following:

• Quadriceps

• Glutes

• Magnus adductor

• Core muscles (front abdominal muscles, lateral abdominal muscles, lower back)

• calves

How to do Hatfield squats

Don't forget to do a quick lower body warm up before doing these squats

  1. The safety squat bar must be attached to the hook so that the base of the neck pad is the same height as your armpits.
  2. When you finish setting up your squat bar, lower the safety arms a little lower than the position the bar will stop when you bend down. This step is important because it can save you from serious injury in the event of a mistake.
  3. Place the barbell securely on its back by diving under the bar.
  4. Let your body lift the bar off the rack and place your hands on the rack
  5. Adjust your stance width by taking two short steps backwards
  6. While holding the grip of your hands on the frame, crouch down.
  7. An important tip is to maintain your body vertical while bending your knees forward.
  8. Reach down for as long as you think you can handle it. Hold for a second.
  9. Now push up through your heels and come to the starting position with the bar.
  10. Repeat this until you have the number of repetitions you want.
  11. Step forward a little and bend your knees a little. Put the rod on the hooks.

frequently asked Questions

1. Can I do Hatfield Squat with a simple bar instead of a safety bar?

We recommend never doing Hatfield Squat with a simple bar as it is not safe at all. Such bars can roll off your back and cause serious injury.

2. Can I hold the pegs or handles for support instead of the rack?

Absolutely yes, you can also hold ribbon pins to balance your squat.

3. Why should I do Hatfield Squat?

It's an effective version of the squat. This will help you strengthen the muscles in your body. It also helps you improve your balance. It can also help with lower back injuries.

Related articles

How To Do Pistol Squat Perfectly Without Getting Injured?

20 types of squats that are worth your time

AIR SQUATS: BENEFITS, PROCEDURES AND MORE

The best way to master the Bulgarian split squats

11 Sep
Blog

Lost in Random Review: A Soulslike in a Charming Disguise

Even dicey dice to start the fight.

Lost in Random Review: Don't let the adorable exterior of this Soulslike fool you

"Lost in Random is like a living storybook, but that's not enough to get it through its struggles."

advantages

  • Fine art and animation

  • Great characters

  • Interesting central secret

  • Occasionally satisfying fight

disadvantage

  • Frustrating struggle

  • Too much dialogue

  • Lots of bugs

It's late, it's dark and I'm lost. I run through the streets of Threedom chasing a ghost I'm not even sure it's real. Strange, twisted creatures call out to me along the way, promoting their wares and warning me not to wander too far. I shut her out as I run, determined to save my sister – and maybe end Threedom's eternal civil war while I'm at it. The whole time a monster is whispering in my ear, reminding me that I only have until sunset or that my search will be in vain.

This is the world of Lost in Random, the latest project from the Swedish studio Zoink Games. Released by Thunderful Games as part of the EA Originals program, Lost in Random is an indie action-adventure game with a distinctive Tim Burton-like aesthetic. In the world of random, the fortunes of the citizens are decided by throwing a six-sided die. A mad queen rules the six kingdoms of the world, each with a unique number as its theme. When children turn 12, the queen rolls the die and the number she lands on determines which kingdom they are sent to. The main character Even was born to the inhabitants of Onecroft, the lowest and most unfortunate kingdom. When Even's beloved sister Odd rolls a six on her birthday and is taken to the Queen's palace, Even sets out to find her. On the way she meets Dicey, a sentient cube with a surprising amount of power. Armed with Dicey and a deck of cards, Even sets out to save Odd.

Lost in Random is a lush, beautiful adventure through an interesting world full of unique characters. At the same time, it's also a tough action game with relatively limited resources and a strong focus on evasion mechanics. The more I played, the more I felt like this wasn't your average action-adventure game – instead, it's actually soulslike in disguise, or a game that takes its fighting cues from the infamous Dark Souls series. Unfortunately, this reveal came with all of the frustration Soulslikes bring with it.

Places to go, meet people

The best thing about Lost in Random is its world. Every setting is a feast for the eyes, from the strange teapot-shaped buildings of Onecroft to the majestic pink sunset of Threedom. Each area has its share of strange, disturbing characters, many of which have a story to tell. Playing the game really made me feel like I was back in my childhood. Many of the designs are based on creatures that rumble at night, the monsters under your bed that your picture books have warned you about.

The central search is so mysterious and interesting that it kept bothering me. Combined with strong voice acting and narration, the overall package is just creepy and adorable enough that I was always curious to see what I would discover in each new kingdom. I especially liked the short sections with Odd which are creative and gorgeous in the best possible way.

As fun as it is to hear the story of each random resident, the dialogues get a little boring at times. Many of the characters are extremely lengthy and speak exceptionally slowly. After a while I found myself struggling through the dialogues, desperate to just get to the point. I also found a couple of audio bugs that resulted in dialogs being skipped or not playing.

The whole package is just creepy and adorable enough that I was always curious to see what I would discover in each new kingdom.

Even so, the game's writing style is strong and each character feels unique. There are more dialogue options than you'd expect, though they're more about taste and color than about real decisions. Even often, she has a variety of snappy responses available, and I enjoyed hearing the characters' responses to their derogatory comments.

Even and Dicey walk across a bridge.

The only downside to the environments is the difficulty of traversing them. Every street looks similar after a while and the game's map is mostly useless. (It urgently needs a "You are here" token.) The angular nature of battle arenas resulted in my getting stuck on walls quite often in fights, making it impossible for me to dodge enemy attacks. The camera often gets caught behind walls and structures in these arenas too, especially if you throw Dicey near a wall.

Random rules

Lost in Randoms linear exploration and conversation simulator segments are broken up by arena-style battles. After even leaving Onecroft and meeting Dicey, she often finds herself in small, vaguely circular areas with a group of enemies that she must fight. In any battle, the battle begins with a relative impotence: even dodging enemy attacks and using their slingshot to remove crystals from the bodies of enemies. Once she has collected enough crystals, she can throw Dicey to roll a number and stop the flow of time. The number determines which cards from her hand she can use. Each card is assigned a number and an effect, such as making a potion that heals even or takes the form of a sword so that it can defend itself. After making your selection, you can manually restart the time and fight back.

Even attack an enemy.

The whole process feels clunky (especially at the beginning when Dicey can only roll one or two, which limits resources), but it's definitely unique. Even if you have the opportunity to fight back, the game focuses more on precise dodging and mobility than a sense of power. Even's sprint doesn't go very far, but jumping right in front of an enemy attacking grants an extra thrust that propels them further and allows players to turn around and strike while an enemy has their backs on their backs. Timing it right is extremely satisfying, and the game rewards players for luring enemies into other enemies' attacks as they can and will harm each other if they try to reach Even.

Like the dialogues, many of the battles just go on for way too long, which makes it frustrating as you near the end and get knocked out by an enemy spear for dodging the wrong way.

I wish there was a greater variety of cards – I've been using the same ones over and over, and the game's card vendor usually just gives players the option to buy more of what they have. There is also a lack of hostile diversity; By halfway through the game I had only seen four different guys. There are a handful of board game style fights that shake up the combat environments a bit, but they don't add anything particularly interesting to the game.

The arenas themselves can be frustrating. Most of them are circular, which makes it easier to drag enemies around and give room to dodge, but they're still angular enough that I often crashed into walls and other objects and got trapped. The difficulty level increases pretty quickly and the sheer number of enemies in some arenas can make battles a slow blow.

Like the dialogues, many of the battles just go on for way too long, which makes it frustrating as you near the end and get knocked out by an enemy spear for dodging the wrong way. That's the nature of a soul-like.

Choose your poison

Aside from design issues, I've encountered a surprising number of bugs during my time playing the game. Aside from the audio issues mentioned above, every time I started the game, I kept getting “Controller not found” message. I was playing on the pc so it was a strange message to get. I also encountered a breakthrough bug and crash that required me to restart the game to continue. Lost in random autosaves, so it wasn't too big a deal either way, but experiences like this drive the frustration factor higher than it should be. The game will receive a day-one patch at launch that will hopefully fix some of these more egregious issues.

Even goes over another bridge in Onecroft.

Although my review key was for the PC, I would undeniably recommend playing the game with a controller or on a console. There are some very weird default key bindings, and the game felt both too tricky and clunky with the mouse and keyboard. Soulslikes are traditionally best played with a controller, and this game definitely belongs to this group.

Our opinion

Lost in Random is like a living storybook, but that's not enough to carry it through its struggles. I said to myself, I wish a lot: I wish there was more variety of opponents and cards. I wish there weren't that many mistakes. I wish the dialogue wasn't so lengthy. The game has so much promise and succeeds in many things it imagines, but its shortcomings are too numerous and too great to prevent a six.

How long it will take?

The main story itself lasts around 20 hours, although there are plenty of side quests for dedicated players. There are a few collectibles to be found too, so completeers will have a reason to extend their gaming session. The story is linear and unique, so there's no need to replay it.

Is there an alternative?

Players looking for even more hardcore experience should check out the Dark Souls and Bloodborne franchises for a cleaner, more straightforward version of this fighting style. Although it's pretty old at this point, the hack-and-slash game Alice: Madness Returns has a similar visual aesthetic that feels "more grown-up" than Lost in Random.

Should you buy it?

Yes – if you're a gamer who loves storybook-style adventures and conversational games, then you should check out Lost in Random. (For those who just want to see the story, the game's difficulty level can be reduced.) It's also worth a look for players looking to dip their toes in Soulslike games. Everyone else can probably skip it.

Lost in Random is available now for PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One and Series X / S.

Editor's recommendations



10 Sep
Blog

Nokia XR20 Review: A Beautiful Beast of a Phone

Back of the Nokia XR20.

Nokia XR20 put to the test: a beautiful beast built to last

RRP $ 550.00

“Don't let its looks fool you, the Nokia XR20 is a rugged phone through and through. It doesn't have the specifications to rival most other mainstream phones, but its value comes with impressive longevity. "

advantages

  • Attractive but robust body

  • Software updates for 3 years

  • Extended warranty (depending on location)

  • Wireless charging

disadvantage

  • Bad camera

  • Mediocre performance

  • Screen with 60 Hz refresh rate

Hard doesn't have to be ugly anymore, now that HMD Global has unveiled the Nokia XR20 smartphone, which it says can "take anything life throws on it and look great doing it". That's a pretty bold claim when rugged phones usually look like they're tucked away in a clunky, rarely very attractive case.

But does this mean that the XR20 is a rugged phone for everyone, whether or not you spend time in situations where a lesser phone would be pulverized in a matter of moments or not?

draft

The Nokia XR20 effectively straddles the world of rugged phones and clunkier mainstream models by avoiding protruding bumpers and bevel cuts on the back to symbolize ruggedness. It also has a subtle blue tint instead of a black or yellow color scheme that just screams "danger"! While it's obviously not a mainstream phone like the OnePlus Nord 2, it doesn't just look at home when it's dusty and haphazardly tossed in the booth of a heavy device.

The Nokia XR20 in the color Ultra Blue, seen from the rear.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Just look at some details. For example, I like the exposed aluminum metal case on the side of the phone and the simple X pattern on the camera module. But despite those pretty visuals, Nokia hasn't forgotten what the phone is really about by including a cutout for a strap, a textured polymer back for added support, and a programmable emergency button.

One-handed operation is practically impossible with small hands.

It's a chunky beast with a thickness of 10.64 mm and 248 grams. A slim plastic case covers the phone, effectively looks like an ergonomic, sturdy case on a slimmer phone and gives it the "military specification" MIL-STD-810H- Certification and an IP68 rating. This means that it has withstood falls from a height of 1.8 meters and up to an hour's water depth to a depth of 1.5 meters, as well as withstanding dust and much more. It has Gorilla Glass Victus above the screen.

It is a very wide phone and one-handed operation is practically impossible with small hands, but it is comfortable and natural to hold as it has no protrusions or protective sections on the body. There's a subtle raised lip around the screen to protect it when it's face down, but it's not so extreme that you feel it every time you swipe through the menus.

Unusually for a phone test, I deliberately dropped the XR20 and also put it in the water. It still works as you'd expect after various dunkings and drops from waist height onto a variety of surfaces from grass to gravel. However, the hard plastic shell has already had some abrasion, suggesting that while it looks pretty now, it may not last as long if it is really abused. That's the price you pay for the XR20 to look vaguely normal. I like the confidence of being able to quickly scrub it off with mild soapy water.

The Nokia XR20 is not a catwalk model, but it is not just made for the construction site. It definitely wants to cross into both worlds, but once we get into the rest of the phone it becomes clear that while the beauty is all disguised, it is only superficial. It's not a criticism, just don't mistake it for something it isn't. If I was a surfer, weekend hiker, or someone who worked in environments that were generally not electronics focused, it really fit the bill. Not really as a primary phone, but certainly as a second “lifestyle-friendly” phone.

camera

The camera module may look like it contains three or four camera lenses, but in reality it has two, with the other two spots being occupied by two flashes – a dual-tone LED and a single LED. There is an 8-megapixel selfie camera in a hole punch in the top center of the screen.

Nokia XR20 camera module.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The dual 48 MP main rear camera and 13 MP wide-angle camera mean the XR20 will never be a camera superstar, and in fact, it can't compete with phones that are built for camera performance. Color balance, white balance, and dynamic range are ubiquitous, and rarely do two photos have the same tone. The inconsistency continues when you switch to wide angle.

It may be called Zeiss, but the Nokia XR20's capabilities don't do it justice. It's not worth judging too harshly because Nokia really doesn't sell the phone as a top camera performer, and the photos it takes are mostly acceptable in decent lighting, but really good ones if you're interested at all Taking pictures and having some creative fun with a camera, this is not the phone for you.

power

The Nokia XR20 has many buttons. The Google Assistant button on the left side of the case is big and easy to find, which also means you'll definitely press it by mistake. There is a programmable button on the top of the phone that can be set to perform a single action like turning on the flashlight or dialing an emergency contact after a long press. It is almost flush with the body so it is unlikely that you will accidentally do this.

Fingerprint sensor of the Nokia XR20.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The fingerprint sensor is located inside the power key and is in the middle on the right side of the case. Annoyingly, I find that when I pick up the phone, my finger naturally presses the volume button above it, which doesn't help because the tiny sensor is flush and has no texture to help locate it. It's reliable when you find it, and a quick face unlock system is there as a backup.

It has enough power for general tasks.

A Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 processor with either 4 GB or 6 GB of RAM makes the XR20 a mid-range mobile phone. It has enough power for general tasks, and I have had no problems browsing, social networking, swiping through Google Discover, and editing photos. The main difference to more powerful phones lies in the overall speed of performing tasks such as starting the phone and starting apps or playing games. In these cases the XR20 responds a little slower. It's not annoying in most situations, but it can be if you're multitasking or just want to get things done quickly.

You will also notice the underperformance in watching videos and games where there are sometimes some stuttering when watching 1080p movies. The 6.67-inch LCD screen with an aspect ratio of 20: 9 and 1080 x 2400 has large bezels and unfortunately only a refresh rate of 60 Hz. The screen sits "under" the bezel, which makes the design look a bit antiquated. The brightness of 550 cd / m² doesn't sound like much, but it is easy to read in sunlight.

Nokia XR20 screen.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Looking at Carfection's Ferrari Portofino M test results in good viewing angles and a pleasant color palette. It's a good screen for a mid-range phone, but it's not very modern and many mainstream phones have the more desirable higher refresh rate. There are two speakers, but the stereo separation is minimal, with most of the volume – of which there is plenty – coming from the speaker on the bottom of the phone. The mobile phone plays Asphalt 9: Legends relatively smoothly and does not get hot. The overall weight of the Nokia XR20 means it's not exactly the ideal video or gaming partner, and the Snapdragon 480 lacks the guts to impress.

Battery, software and connectivity

Android One is neatly designed and laid out in the same way as it is on a Google Pixel phone, so it's very easy to use and I haven't encountered any reliability issues. HMD Global promises three years of phone version updates and four years of security updates, which is excellent. It has 5G, assuming you have coverage near you and NFC for Google Pay, plus a 3.5mm headphone jack, but the Wi-Fi connection struggles to maintain a weak signal compared to other phones.

Emergency button on the top of the Nokia XR20.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Google Assistant button on Nokia XR20.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Charging port for the Nokia XR20.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The 4,630 mAh battery is very powerful and offers two days of run time even when you're playing games, watching videos, or making a few calls. It's great to see that 15 watt wireless charging is included, as is wired charging 18 W Quick Charge 4.0. However, it does not come with a charger, so actual charging speeds will depend on the charger you ultimately use.

Price and availability

The Nokia XR20 is priced at $ 550 and is available for pre-order now from B&H Photo and is likely to be available in other outlets as well. In the UK, the XR20 is available now and costs £ 399 / $ 552 or £ 449 / $ 621 for the 6GB / 128GB model. It is available in either Ultra Blue, as seen in our photos, or Granite Gray.

Our opinion

An uninspiring camera, a 60Hz refresh screen, and a Snapdragon 480 processor are a recipe for a phone that costs $ 250, but the Nokia XR20 costs $ 550. Though it looks better than most rugged phones, at its core it's still a rugged phone – and a good one at it – and you pay for the tech and certification that go into it, rather than a camera and processor-centric spec list .

The XR20 will almost certainly outlast phones that cost half the price and still look decent when you take it around town.

The story often ends here, which means that ruggedness is really the only reason to buy, but that's not exactly the case with the XR20. It's not just the body that makes it last – there is real longevity elsewhere as well. HMD Global promises three years of Android version updates and four years of security updates. It's also backed by a three-year warranty if purchased in the UK or Europe, complete with a one-year free screen replacement warranty. The US warranty details vary, and HMD Global states it comes with a two-year extended warranty.

Combine that with the rugged case, Gorilla Glass Victus, and IP68 water resistance, and you have a phone that will last through 2024 and beyond. The performance might not offer much value, but the updates and warranty do a far better job. As a second phone when things get muddy or rocky, the XR20 will almost certainly outlast phones that cost half the price and still look decent when you take it around town.

Is there a better alternative?

The ruggedness of the Nokia XR20 sets it apart from the Cat S61 and Cat S62 Pro, which both cost more but have Flir's thermal imaging technology and a far more traditional rugged design. The Cat S48c is older but is available at a much lower price, as is the current Motorola Defy.

If you're looking to spend around $ 500 on a phone without the rugged design, we recommend the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. It's waterproof and made of plastic, so it should be moderately durable, but the screen and camera are superior to the Nokia XR20.

How long it will take?

As mentioned above, the Nokia XR20 Android software will be updated for three years and the security updates will continue for another year after that. The warranty period varies depending on where you buy the phone, but it may be covered for up to three years. That means you should be able to securely own and use the phone until at least 2024. Plus, it has 5G so you can take advantage of the fastest connection speeds too.

Should you buy it?

Yes, but only if “tough treatment” is at the top of your wish list.

Editor's recommendations



10 Sep
Blog

Origin Neuron (2021) Review: A Prebuilt Worthy of the Premium

Origin neuron on a table.

Origin Neuron (2021) Review: A Pre-Made Well Worth the Premium

RRP $ 2,387.00

"You can build the same system for less money, but Origin makes a compelling case not to do that."

advantages

  • Excellent cable management and design

  • Minimal bloatware

  • Lifelong 24/7 support

  • Great CPU, GPU, and motherboard options

  • Easy to update

disadvantage

  • Expensive

  • Few non-Corsair part options

  • Limited ports on the front

Why buy a desktop PC when you can make one yourself for less? Origin PC, which was acquired by Corsair a few years ago and specializes in pre-built PCs, has been trying to answer this question for years. But now, with GPU prices where they are, buying a pre-built desktop has never made so much sense.

Although Origin's pre-built desktops contain many off-the-shelf parts, they're more than just a few hastily thrown together components.

The Origin Neuron shows that. It is the mid-tower option from the Origin range and serves as a middle ground between the extended Tower Genesis and the Chronos with a small form factor. Like all Origin desktops, you can equip the Neuron with whatever parts you want, including the latest graphics card from AMD and Nvidia.

Given how expensive graphics cards are right now, the Neuron is a solid alternative to building your own gaming PC. If you don't want a massive tower to take up too much space, or a small form factor machine that could be prone to noise issues, the Neuron is the perfect option. And in 2021, most midrange configurations won't cost much more than building a gaming rig yourself.

draft

Origin Neuron sits on a table.

The Origin Neuron is made up of off-the-shelf parts – assuming you can find a graphics card, you can put together an exact match. Because of this, it doesn't offer the convenience of an HP Omen 30L with its tool-less design. You still need to unscrew things and have a shelf for parts on hand when you want to get in.

Still, the Corsair 4000X case makes upgrades effortless. The side parts are each equipped with latches to the front, which allow easy insertion, and the knurled screws cannot be lost. They even have a little yellow ring around them, which makes them easy to spot when you remove the side panel.

It's worth noting that the Corsair 4000X is just one of the case options. It has a tempered glass side panel that stays on the side of the case even when the knurled screws are pulled out. There is a handy lever for removing it that I could use to remove the side panel without smearing fingerprints on it.

While you can put together the individual pieces of the Origin Neuron yourself, it may not be possible to do so with the same level of cleanliness. The device is remarkably well built, with neat cable routing on the back of the case and minimal overhang at the front. That's a testament to Origin's building expertise, as well as the large, open space that the Corsair 4000X offers.

The back of the Origin Neuron.

You also have plenty of room for upgrades. With all commercially available parts, you can swap everything in the case across the board. The Corsair 4000X comes with two SSD trays and two hard drive bays that offer you plenty of space for storage. M.2 support depends on the motherboard you choose.

After everything was set up, I checked out the pre-installed software. There were a couple of programs out there that you will be using most of them. You have access to a graphics card overclocking utility, Corsair iCUE and an audio settings app. I would have preferred MSI Afterburner for the overclocking tool as it is the de facto option for many enthusiasts (including myself). Even so, these programs are useful and won't bloat the machine.

Connectivity

Which ports you get on the Neuron depends on the selected configuration. Each case and motherboard has a different combination. For the build Origin sent me, I was spoiled for choice in terms of connectivity, but unfortunately only the back of the case.

Up front, the Corsair 4000X has a pathetic choice. They have a USB 3.0 port, a USB-C 3.1 port and a headphone / microphone combo jack. That's it. While I loved seeing USB-C on the front, Corsair could have squeezed an additional USB port or two on the front. The 4000X has a clean design without too many exposed ports, but a few extra USB ports wouldn't have hurt that.

Connections on the front of the Origin Neuron.

My test unit came with an Asus ROG Crosshair VIII Hero motherboard, which is not available on the Origin website at the time of publication. This board comes with an absurd number of ports. It includes Gigabit and 2.5 Gbit LAN, USB-C 3.2 and 10 USB 3.2 ports. If you need a lot of USB devices, this board is for you.

While you can't currently buy the board in my unit – at least through Origin – there are many other options. At the time of publication, I found an MSI MEG X570 Ace board that fits in the same class as the Crosshair board. Unfortunately, it doesn't have that many USB ports, so grab the Crosshair when it's available and you want a high-end motherboard.

Each case has two USB ports on the front – either USB-A or a combination with USB-C. An SD card reader would have been nice too, although most commercial cases don't come with one.

Internals

My test device was equipped with the latest parts from AMD and Nvidia, including the 16-core Ryzen 9 5950X and the 12 GB RTX 3080 Ti. Although this is about as high-quality as gaming desktops, the Neuron can hold even more. Origin offers up to 64 cores Ryzen Threadripper 3990X (but not the Pro model like the Lenovo P620 offers).

Central processor AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
GPU Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti
Motherboard Asus ROG Crosshair VIII Hero WiFi
case Corsair 4000X
Storage Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro 32 GB 3,200 MHz (2 x 16 GB)
storage Corsair MP600 1TB, Samsung 870 QVO 2TB
power supply Corsair RM850X 80+ gold
USB ports 11 USB-A, two USB-C
Networking 2.5 Gbit, 1 Gbit Ethernet

The standard configuration costs about $ 2,400. For that price, you get a Core i7-10700K, 16GB of storage, and an RTX 3060 Ti. While this is the "starting price," you can actually save money by configuring the machine yourself. By swapping out a Ryzen 5 5600X and RX 6700 XT, I was able to bring the Neuron down to $ 2,100 using the configurator.

My review unit is just over $ 5,100, and that's a mid-range configuration. Armed with the best of the best, you can easily spend over $ 10,000 on the Neuron. If that sounds like a lot, it's because the Neuron is way more expensive than the competition.

I configured an almost identical Maingear Vybe for $ 5,051, and a similar Falcon Northwest Talon configuration was $ 5,352. For Custom, the Neuron is where it should be. Pre-made ones are a different story. The slightly lower spec HP Omen 30L costs around $ 2,500. The pre-configured Maingear Vybe with an RTX 3080 Ti now costs $ 3,500.

The pre-made vybe is the most interesting comparison. It's almost identical to the Neuron Origin I sent myself, just with a Ryzen 9 5900X processor. Origin offers a pre-built version of the Neuron, but it is limited to one configuration. At HP and Maingear, you have access to a range of options, all less than customizing your own rig.

This is a top of the line machine with some of the highest quality components inside.

Still, it is difficult to get into a bad configuration given the options the Neuron offers. Outside of the motherboard, graphics card, and processor, you have access to Corsair parts, and Corsair makes great RAM, power supplies, and AIO coolers. While vertical integration may rub some people the wrong way, I can't fault it. This is a top of the line machine with some of the highest quality components inside.

You will have access to Corsair drives most of the time too, although Origin does offer some Samsung options as well. Samsung drives are some of the best, so I was excited to see them.

Still, I have a few issues with the build options. For one, there are no options for air cooling. You can only choose one AIO, and only one is available from Corsair. Additionally, RGB case fans are obscenely expensive as you can only access Corsair options. They're some of the best pc case fans out there, but they come at a price to match.

And price is the main problem. I split the base machine at currently available prices (with the MSRP for the graphics card) and came up with $ 1,430. That's nearly $ 1,000 in premium for Origin for additional branding, and it all adds up to a standard configuration of $ 2,400. However, given current graphics card prices, the Neuron isn't bad business. Given the inflated pricing, building this machine yourself would cost nearly $ 2,000.

Processor power

CPU block on the Origin Neuron.

Processor performance depends on how you configure the Neuron. If you choose the Ryzen 9 5950X, as with my test device, you're in luck. Aside from AMD's own Threadripper chips, there is nothing that powerful on consumer desktops.

The 16 cores and 32 threads went to work quickly in Cinebench R23. Cinebench uses the processor to render an image instead of the graphics card and measures both single and multi-core performance. It got a score of 25,116 on the multi-score, which is faster than any desktop CPU you can buy outside of Threadripper.

Aside from parts of the workstation class, there is no other processor as powerful as the Ryzen 9 5950X.

As a reference, Intel's 10-core i9-10900K achieved a score of around 15,000. Single-core performance was on par with other processors in the Ryzen 5000 series, including the one in the Falcon Northwest Talon.

Geekbench 5 offers more down to earth performance, but even then, the Ryzen 9 5950X outperformed the Core i9-10900K by around 30%. This test also showed some benefits for single-core performance. My example chip showed a modest improvement of around 6% over the CyberPower Xtreme that rocks the Ryzen 7 5800X.

The Ryzen 5950X showed how close it can get to Threadripper chips in the content creation benchmarks. It got a total of 1,088 in PugetBench for Premiere Pro. That's about 18% off the Threadripper 3995WX, which costs nearly $ 5,500. Aside from parts of the workstation class, there is no other processor as powerful as the Ryzen 9 5950X.

In Handbrake, the Ryzen 9 5950X actually met the Threadripper 3995WX, with only one second between the render times. Intel's Core i9-10900K didn't do that well and was about 35% below the Ryzen 9 5950X in my handbrake test.

Gaming performance

For the machine Origin sent me, 4K is the goal. The RTX 3080 Ti can exceed 1080p and 1440p in most games and achieves frame rates of around 100 frames per second (fps). You don't have to look any further than Red Dead Redemption 2 to see where the Neuron averaged 110 fps at 1440p Ultra settings.

The RTX 3080 Ti aims at 4K but doesn't always arrive. At maximum 4K resolution, I managed 55 fps in Assassin's Creed Valhalla. This is a very punishing title, and the RTX 3080 Ti is on the high end of the performer. Nevertheless, the HP Omen 30L only showed a slight improvement over the RTX 3080. As far as the Falcon Northwest Talon with an RTX 3080 is concerned, it performs identically.

Origin neuron with side wall turned off.

Red Dead Redemption 2 did much better with an average of 72 fps at 4K Ultra. Fortnite was also no match for the RTX 3080 Ti, as it scored points above the RTX 3080 at 89 fps with all sliders. Assassin's Creed Valhalla and Red Dead Redemption 2 are two of the most challenging games on PC, and the RTX 3080 Ti can still keep up with them.

The RTX 3080 can also keep up. Even in the most demanding of situations, just a few frames separate it and the Ti model at 4K. Keep in mind that the RTX 3080 Ti costs an extra $ 718 over the RTX 3080 in the Neuron. This additional price hardly buys you any more performance with 4K.

This even applies to synthetic benchmarks. When I compare my 3DMark Time Spy result to the average of the RTX 3080 results with the same configuration, there is only about 5% difference. For reference, the RTX 3070 Ti is only about 10% slower than the RTX 3080 Ti in this test, while it costs $ 1,000 less on Origin.

Ray tracing is a major feature of the RTX 30 series, so I turned to Control for ray tracing performance. To my surprise, the RTX 3080 Ti managed 35 fps at 4K with ray tracing on high. That's about a 44% performance hit for enabling ray tracing, but you can always use Nvidia's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) to increase the frame rates.

The RTX 3080 Ti is a 4K gaming monster, but that shouldn't come as a surprise. It's better for the price Origin is asking. What surprised me is the proximity to the RTX 3080, which is significantly cheaper. The non-Ti model is slower, but with over $ 700 at stake, a few extra frames are hard to justify.

Guarantee and support

An important reason to be pre-fabricated is the support. After all, there are no guarantees of screwing up a build yourself (even if the chances are slim with the right guidance). Origin, along with virtually all other custom PC builders, doesn't do well in this regard. The Neuron comes with a standard one-year parts exchange warranty with free shipping for the first 45 days only.

The Neuron comes in a wooden box so free shipping after 45 days is not a big deal. One year is the standard for most PC manufacturers, including Maingear, Falcon Northwest, and CyberPowerPC. For the warranty period, however, I would have liked free shipping. That upgrade alone costs $ 70 on Origin.

It's not all bad news for support, however. After purchase, Origin offers 24/7 lifelong support as well as lifelong free labor if you want to upgrade your PC across the board.

Our opinion

Like most custom-built PCs, the Origin Neuron charges a premium for convenience. However, this premium is not as high in 2021 as in previous years. Given the current price of an RTX 3080 Ti, you could build the exact machine Origin sent me for around $ 1,400 versus $ 2,400. That extra $ 1,000 will give you the build, some extra goodies, and a parts guarantee.

As someone who loves to assemble PCs, I will always choose to save money and share a system myself. However, the price difference on Origin isn't that big, especially on machines with lower specs. As my tests show, you can get most of the performance of an RTX 3080 Ti out of the RTX 3080, and this difference alone brings the price scales back into balance.

Overall, the Origin Neuron is an expertly built machine that deserves its price in a sea of ​​machines that don't. However, DIY is always cheaper, and the 2021 Neuron won't change that either.

Are there alternatives?

Yes sir. The Maingear Vybe and Falcon Northwest Talon are custom alternatives, and the HP Omen 30L and pre-made Maingear Vybe are cheaper options that you can't configure. Origin stands out for its build quality, including clean cable management and minimal bloatware. However, all components are sold separately and you can save a lot if you put them together yourself.

How long it will take?

The Origin Neuron will last as long as you want it to. It uses standardized parts so you can upgrade and expand it for as long as it complies with the ATX standard. The base model will last at 1080p and 1440p for several years before you need to upgrade.

Should you buy it?

A $ 1,000 building fee is hard to swallow when you can make an exact match yourself, but for those who don't want to build their own, the Neuron is an excellent premium option.

Editor's recommendations



10 Sep
Blog

Jabra Elite 3 Review: All Of The Basics On A Budget

Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbuds.

Jabra Elite 3 review: all the basics on a budget

RRP $ 80.00

"Jabra's Elite 3 are a good selection of basic buds that want us to have a few more features."

advantages

  • Super comfortable fit

  • Excellent controls

  • Excellent call quality

disadvantage

  • Fewer functions than the competition

  • No AAC codec support

For years, Jabra's elite family of true wireless earbuds has been some of the best you can buy. But they were never particularly affordable, with regular prices often starting at $ 180. So to think of a set of Jabra earbuds that keep the brand's reputation for great sound, great fit, and great features at well under $ 100 is very appealing. That's the premise behind the new $ 80 Jabra Elite 3.

The price is certainly right, but has Jabra ditched too many of the Elite's signature features to achieve such cost savings? Let's check them out.

What's in the box?

Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbuds included.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Jabra has done an exemplary job reducing its product packaging, and the Elite 3 are further proof that you don't need to use plastic or foam to protect your product. The cardboard is 100% recyclable and the only touch of plastic (which is also made from the easily recyclable PET variety) is the small protective cover for the two optional earbuds. (You get a total of three sizes.) Inside you will find the Elite 3 earbuds, their charging case, a short USB-A to USB-C charging cable and a printed warranty brochure.

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Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbuds alongside the Jabra Elite 75t.Jabra Elite 3 (left) and Jabra Elite 75t. Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

If it isn't broken, the saying goes, don't fix it. And Jabra has clearly followed this cliché with the Elite 3. The design of the earbuds is very similar to the Elite 75t and Elite 85t in that they maintain the ultra-comfortable ergonomics of these more expensive earbuds. But the Elite 3 also improves on these designs by increasing the size of the physical multi-function buttons and tilting the scale at a slightly lighter weight.

The charging case is also a near-perfect carbon copy of the 75t, albeit a bit shorter, and places the LED display on the front instead of the back. Jabra introduced this on the 85t and it's great to see it's been kept on the Elite 3.

They fit my ears perfectly – almost as if they were made just for me.

The case lid is easy to open and close, with a small notch in the hinge arm to keep it open when removing or reinserting the earbuds. There's no way an earbud can accidentally come off once in the case – a strong set of magnets conveniently grips the earbuds as they get close to their charging jacks, holding them firmly in place. Thanks to the shape of the buds, despite the power of the magnets, they're surprisingly easy to remove.

Jabra has also given the Elite 3 the same IP55 water and dust resistance as the Elite 75t, which should protect them from damage as long as you don't immerse them in water.

Comfort, controls and connections

Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbuds.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Jabra's earbuds have always been some of the most comfortable you can buy, and the Elite 3 continues that tradition. They fit my ears perfectly – almost as if they were made just for me. There were no pressure points and they remained securely in place after insertion. Thanks to their small size and light weight, they are hardly noticeable. You shouldn't have a problem using them on your walks, runs, or other activities.

The Elite 3's buttons are Jabra's best yet.

Jabra's physical button controls are also some of the best in the true wireless world, and the Elite 3's buttons are the company's best yet. Since they occupy the entire outer surface of the bud, it's impossible to miss, and their precise click response means you'll get that tactile feedback every time you press it.

The click patterns (single, double, triple and click-and-hold) give you access to playback, call management, track skip, volume and voice assistant, as well as a one-click function to activate transparency mode (which Jabra calls HearThrough). ). I like the patterns Jabra chose for these controls and that you can use both earbuds solo if you want. But what I miss is the MyControls option that is available on the Elite 75t and 85t Buds, which gives you the ability to reassign which key clicks do those actions.

Another feature that is missing in Action is the automatic pause. Jabra's more expensive headphones use in-ear detection to pause and resume sound when you remove or reinsert them, but the Elite 3 lacks that capability.

Pairing the Elite 3 is a breeze. especially if you are an Android user thanks to the integration of Google's Fast Pair technology. After connecting, the bluetooth signal stayed strong and stable. I was able to put 30 feet of space between the buds and my phone before I noticed a disconnection.

It's a bit of a disappointment that they don't sound better than the competition.

The Android-only features don't stop there. You can also use Amazon Alexa instead of the Google Assistant, and with Jabra, Android users can swap voice assistant controls for double-tap access to Spotify. Use this option and your Spotify songs will start playing right away.

Unfortunately, Jabra decided to drop one of its signature features with the Elite 3: unlike other Jabra earbuds and headphones, you cannot connect the Elite 3 to more than one device (such as a smartphone and a computer) at the same time. It's a super-handy feature, especially for people who regularly switch between voice calls and video calls.

Sound quality

Man with Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbuds.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

For the occasional listening, the Elite 3 are good performers. The factory sound signature is balanced, preferring neither highs nor lows, and there is decent detail and separation of the mids. It's the kind of vibe that works well with almost every genre of music, from hip-hop to classical, though it's not really stellar in any of them.

The bass response is satisfactory, although I think it doesn't quite live up to Jabra's "strong bass" promise. It's definitely strong enough to let you feel the beat – my test track, Billie Eilish’s Bad Guy, had a lot of oomph – but if really big bass is your passion, then you should look elsewhere.

However, when comparing the Elite 3 to other earphones in this price range – like the Soundcore Life P3, Wyze Buds Pro, and Earfun Air Pro and Air Pro 2 – the Elites definitely feel like they're lacking some energy.

Jabra's set-up feels almost conservative compared to these other models, with a not-so-clear high-end and a relatively narrow soundstage. It's not dramatic, but considering how many features Jabra left out to bring these Buds to their $ 80 price point, it's a bit of a disappointment that they don't sound any better than the competition.

Thinking this might be the result of the Elite 3's lack of AAC Bluetooth codec support, I switched from my iPhone 11 to a Google Pixel 5 to try out the Qualcomm aptX codec. Warmth and detail have improved slightly, but the clarity in the highs, especially with female vocals, has remained mellow.

Jabra gives you several EQ presets to play with in the Sound + app – like Bass Boost, Treble Boost, and Energize – but none of them added as much to the overall quality as I hoped. And right now there is no way to create your own custom EQ (Jabra says this will come with a firmware update).

Battery life

Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbud charging case.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Jabra claims the Elite 3 can get you 7 hours on a charge. If anything, that number could be more conservative. With HearThrough turned off and the volume set to 50%, I ended up with 7.5 hours before the batteries ran out.

A quick charge option adds an extra hour to your listening time with just 10 minutes of charging, and the case holds three full charges for a total of 28 hours before you need to find a USB charger.

Transparency mode

Jabra's HearThrough mode has always been one of my favorite features in the Elite series. They do an excellent job at passive noise isolation so it is really valuable to direct the outside world for conversation or just general awareness. Turning HearThrough on and off is almost instantaneous, and the Elite 3 won't bother you with verbal feedback like other earbuds – instead of a message like “HearThrough On,” you'll get a quick and discreet tone to let you know that mode has itself changed.

The quality of transparency isn't quite as good as Apple's AirPods Pro or Jabra's Elite 85t – your own voice still sounds a bit muffled – but it's fine for most external noises.

Call quality

Jabra Elite 3 true wireless earbuds.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Achieving good call quality with a set of real wireless earbuds can be a big challenge. Even buds that cost more than three times what Jabra charges for the Elite 3 – like the Klipsch T5 II ANC for $ 299 – can end up producing less than great results.

And yet the Elite 3 are great for making calls. Not only do they excellently block out background noise, they also deliver excellent speech reproduction. There's none of the usual wobble or compression noises that plague these devices, and when you're in a quiet area, your callers will be treated to a comfortably warm tonality that may even sound better than the microphone built into your phone.

When sidetone is on, you can hear yourself more clearly when you speak. All of this makes the Elite 3 a great accessory for those who make a lot of voice calls.

What is missing?

At this price point, it might not be reasonable to expect a brand like Jabra to offer all of the features of their high-end models, but there's no denying that the competition does just that. the Soundcore Life P3, Earfun Air Pro 2, and Wyze Buds Pro all cost $ 80 or less and include features like wireless charging and active noise cancellation (ANC). The Earfun and Wyze models also have an automatic pause.

But I'm more surprised at the lack of app-based features that the Jabra usually has, like sleep mode (which allows you to turn off the earbuds after a preset time), soundscape (a collection of sounds like rain, ocean waves, songbirds, etc. .), the ability to see how much battery life is left in the charging case, and the ability to automatically mute your audio when HearThrough mode is selected.

Our opinion

With the Elite 3, Jabra shows its strengths with first-class design, comfort and fit, controls and call quality. But given what the competition is offering for the same price or less, they're not quite as easy to recommend as the company's more expensive models.

Is there a better alternative?

In terms of call quality and convenience, I don't think you will find a better set of earbuds at any cost, but given the lack of advanced features on the Elite 3, these models should definitely be considered:

  • Soundcore Life P3: Better sound quality, ANC, customizable controls, customizable EQ, longer battery life, wireless charging, low latency gaming mode and Find My Earbuds.
  • Wyze Buds Pro: Better sound quality, ANC, Amazon Alexa compatibility, auto-pause and wireless charging.
  • Earfun Air 2 Pro: Better sound quality, ANC, longer battery life, wireless charging and automatic pause.

How long will they last?

Jabra products are very well made and use high quality materials. With an IP55 protection class against water and dust, the Elite 3 should prove to be quite robust, and Jabra supports this water / dust protection with a two-year guarantee that gives you great security.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. You might not throw it off the beaten track in terms of features, but they do Elite 3 are still a great set of true wireless earbuds that are especially good for those who are struggling to find a comfortable seat and / or make a lot of calls.

Editor's recommendations



09 Sep
Blog

MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo Review: A Nice 2-in-1, At a Price

MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo sits on the tabletop.

MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo

RRP $ 1,900.00

"The MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo does almost everything right – except for the price."

advantages

  • Modern and attractive aesthetics

  • Thin and light

  • Excellent keyboard and touchpad

  • Great battery life

  • Solid productivity performance

disadvantage

  • Lid is a bit flexible

  • Display is badly calibrated

  • Too expensive

When looking for a convertible 2-in-1 laptop, MSI might not be the first brand that comes to mind. It's best known for its gaming laptops, but the company makes several other lines of laptops aimed at general consumers and business users. For the latter, MSI offers the Summit line, including the new Summit E13 Flip Evo 2-in-1, which offers a 16:10 display and an extremely attractive design.

I tested the high-end configuration, which costs $ 1,900 and includes an 11th generation Intel Core i7-1185G7 and a 13.4-inch IPS display in a productivity-friendly 16:10 aspect ratio. It immediately convinced me with its aesthetics and left a clear impression of quality. At a higher total price and without cheap basic equipment, however, the attractiveness remains limited.

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My first impression of the Summit E13 Flip Evo was that it bears a clear resemblance to the HP Specter x360 14. At least that's the case with my Ink Black version; the impression is not as pronounced with the Pure White color scheme.

I say this because the Summit E13 Flip Evo has case and display corners that are cut off at angles similar to the Specter x360 14, and the various edges of the laptop (including around the touchpad) are a familiar rose gold color. It's easy to tell the difference between the laptops, but it seems that MSI has adopted some aesthetic concepts from HP.

This does not apply to functionality – unlike the HP, the MSI does not have a USB-C port, which is conveniently placed in a corner. Regardless of its inspiration, the Summit E13 Flip Evo is a beautiful laptop with modern lines and attractive colors that add up to an overall elegant design. MSI makes a lot of the golden ratio (1,618) used to proportion the laptop, and I can't fault its math.

What I can criticize, however, are the large display bezels, which detract from the otherwise modern look. They're bigger at the top and bottom than they could be, and that makes the 13.4-inch laptop with its 16:10 display a little deeper than necessary. It's only a fraction of an inch away from the Specter x360 14 with its larger and taller 13.5-inch 3: 2 display, though it's a bit thinner at 0.59 inches compared to the HP's 0.67 inches.

The MSI is only slightly heavier at 2.98 pounds than the HP at 2.95 pounds. It's larger in width and depth than the Dell XPS 13, which also uses a 13.4-inch 16:10 display, and the Dell is slightly thinner at 0.58-inches and lighter at 2.64-inches. Part of the added depth of the Summit E13 Flip Evo is due to the convertible 2-in-1 hinge, but even so, MSI could have made this laptop a smaller laptop with a little more attention to the bezels.

The construction of the Summit E13 Flip Evo is certainly top notch as it uses CNC machined aluminum to carve the lid and chassis from individual blocks of metal. The lid bends only slightly when you press it lightly and the LCD becomes distorted in the process. However, the bottom chassis and keyboard deck are solid and give the laptop a solid feel overall. Thanks to the lid, it's not as stiff as the HP Specter x360 14 or Dell XPS 13, but it is close. The hinge allows the lid to be opened with one hand, but it also makes it a little wobbly when you move the laptop.

At that price point, the Summit E13 Flip Evo is expensive in its $ 1,900 configuration. It's worth the premium given the high-end design of the laptop, but most users will likely be put off by the high-end price. The $ 1,600 configuration with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD is cheaper and on par with the competition. The Specter x360 14, for example, currently costs $ 1,460 for the same configuration as the $ 1,600 Summit E13 Flip Evo, but with a Core i7-1165G7 versus the MSI Core i7-1185G7. So it's $ 140 cheaper, but it also has a smaller processor.

With an identical configuration, the Dell XPS 13 costs almost exactly the same price at $ 1,620. MSI is asking too much to upgrade to 32GB of RAM, which most users in this class won't need.

Connectivity is good for a very thin and light laptop, with a USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port and two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports with Thunderbolt 4 on the left and a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port ( no Thunderbolt 4) with a 3.5mm audio jack and a hidden microSD card reader on the right. Wi-Fi 6E – the Summit E13 Flip Evo is the first laptop with the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard that supports an exclusive 6 GHz band – and Bluetooth 5.2 ensures wireless connectivity.

power

MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo easel, foldable, sitting on the tabletop.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

In the Summit E13 Flip Evo, MSI activates the full 28 watts of the 11th generation Intel Core i7-1185G7 and theoretically promises the best possible performance of the chip. However, according to our benchmarks, the 2-in-1 does not necessarily jump to the top among similarly configured laptops.

In Geekbench 5, the Summit E13 Flip Evo was in the midfield. MSI includes a utility to tune performance versus fan noise, and it made a modest difference in some tests. For example, the Geekbench score jumped to 1,519 single-core and 5,310 in performance mode. The utility also improved the laptop's Handbrake Score, which measures the time it takes to encode a 420MB video as H.265, from 207 to 178 seconds. Both values ​​are more competitive. The utility made less of a difference in Cinebench R23 and PCMark 10. In the last-mentioned benchmark, the notebook was in the midfield across all included tests, including Essentials (web browsing etc.), productivity (Office apps etc.), and Creation (video coding and more).

Overall, the Summit E13 Flip Evo was a fast laptop for its configuration, which included 32GB of RAM and a fast 1TB SSD, but it wasn't dominant among the Intel machines. As mentioned above, the $ 1,600 base configuration comes with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB solid-state drive. A model with 8 GB of RAM and less storage is not offered, which puts it behind its competitors.

In any case, the MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo will be fast enough to keep up with demanding productivity workflows, but it won't please creative types who crave a laptop that can handle CPU-intensive tasks. For this you need an AMD Ryzen 5000 series chip, an M1 MacBook or a larger 45 watt Intel laptop.

Geekbench (single / multiple) Handbrake
(Seconds)		 Cinebench R23 (single / multiple) PCMark 10 3DMark time spy
MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo
(Core i7-1185G7)		 1352/4891 207 1360/4392 4872 1751
Dell XPS 13 (Core i7-1185G7) 1549/5431 204 1399/4585 n / A 1380
HP Specter x360 14 (Core i7-1165G7) 1214/4117 236 1389/3941 4728 1457
Lenovo Yoga 9i 14
(Core i7-1185G7)		 1532/5415 207 1435/4409 4800 1648
Asus ZenBook 13 OLED
(Ryzen7 5800U)		 1423/6758 124 1171/7824 6034 1342
MacBook Pro 13 (M1) 1707/7337 n / A 1487/7547 n / A n / A

Like all laptops with Intel's built-in Iris Xe graphics (and AMD machines with Radeon graphics), the Summit E13 Flip Evo doesn't pretend to be a gaming laptop.

Its 3DMark Time Spy Score is inconspicuous and it only managed 26 frames per second (fps) at 1080p high settings in Fortnite. With the Epic graphics switched on, this dropped to 19 fps.

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Close up on the MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo laptop screen.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

I love seeing so many new devices with larger displays, especially in different sizes and form factors. The Summit E13 Flip Evo is such a laptop with a 13.4-inch 16:10 display in Full HD + resolution (1,920 x 1,200). That's the only choice that's unfortunate – I'd love to see a higher resolution display option.

Subjectively, the display seemed to me well suited for productivity tasks, as it was very bright and with good contrast, so that black text popped out of the white background (as an author, this is one of my most important display attributes). The colors seemed fine when looking at the display alone, though I did notice that things were a little out of place in color compared to some of the other laptops I had lying around.

This is where my colorimeter came in. So the display has some good and some not so good features. As I said, the panel appeared to be bright, at 471 nits (well above our 300 nit threshold), and the contrast ratio was 950: 1 – just below our preferred ratio of 1,000: 1. The colors matched at 73% AdobeRGB and 97% sRGB the average of the premium laptop (not creative). All of this is good enough for a machine in the Summit E13 Flip Evo's class.

The color accuracy was not so great with a disappointing DeltaE of 3.94. That explains my subjective impression. Gamma (how light or dark an image or video is displayed compared to the original) was also extremely poor at 1.4. I usually don't mention gamma as most laptop displays measure the 2.2 standard. However, the MSI's display is way too bright, which I noticed again when using the laptop.

Close up on close up of the screen and bezels of the MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

It is possible that my device was poorly calibrated and could be repaired by anyone with the right tools – not many people have access to a colorimeter to do their own calibration. But it detracts from the experience of using the laptop including watching videos where the poor gamma has an impact. Creators will also find it too imprecise for their needs.

The sound was fine, with enough volume from the two down-facing speakers to enjoy a YouTube video without distortion when it was all the way up. The mids and highs were clear, but there was no bass. You will need a pair of headphones to enjoy Netflix and listen to music, but otherwise the sound quality is average for the class.

Keyboard and touchpad

Close-up of the trackpad and keyboard on the MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The keyboard of the Summit E13 Flip Evo is characterized by excellent spacing and large keycaps with legible lettering and three useful levels of constant backlighting. The layout is standard for the most part and I was up to speed in no time. I enjoyed the 1.5mm of travel, especially considering the light switches that didn't cause fatigue. Floor motion was a bit soft, and I prefer the crisper HP Specter range of keyboards, but overall I found MSI's keyboard comfortable for longer tips sessions (like writing this review).

The touchpad was large and medium in size, but there is more room on the keyboard deck for a larger touchpad. It supports Microsoft's Precision touchpad drivers and responded well to Windows 10's multitouch gestures. The buttons were clicky and quiet, which is a nice combination. Apart from the fact that it would be a bit bigger, I have no complaints.

The active MSI pen is included in the scope of delivery and is attached magnetically to the lid or housing of the laptop. It supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt and is conveniently charged via USB-C. I found it to be as good a Windows Ink experience as any other modern 2-in-1 device I've used. The touch display also responded. An infrared camera and face recognition as well as a fingerprint reader on the palm rest offer Windows 10 Hello passwordless support. Both were quick and reliable.

Close up of the trackpad, keyboard, and fingerprint scanner on the MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

Interestingly, MSI has built a switch on the side of the laptop to electronically turn off the webcam. This is the same mechanism that HP used in some older Specter 2-in-1s, such as the Specter x360 13 and Specter x360 15. HP has since moved on to placing a key on the keyboard that closes a physical shutter over the webcam , but it's interesting that this is something else that MSI apparently borrowed.

I prefer the electronic version because it turns off the webcam completely and doesn't let hackers take advantage of it. The keyboard also has a button to turn off the microphone, another welcome privacy feature.

Battery life

MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo sits on the tabletop.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

MSI packed 70 watt hours of battery into the Summit E13 Flip Evo, which is a lot for a 13-inch laptop. In combination with the Full HD + display, I expected a good battery life.

That's exactly what I saw, starting with our web browsing test, where the 2-in-1 lasted about 11 hours. This is a strong score that surpassed the seven hours of the HP Specter x360 14 (an OLED display was used in our test device, so that's not a really fair test) and the Dell XPS 13 Full HD + with around 8.5 hours. In our video looping test using a local Full HD Avengers trailer, the MSI achieved 16 hours, which is also a good value. The XPS 13 only lasted 12 hours, the Specter x360 14 was well behind with 10 hours.

I also ran the PCMark 10 Applications battery test which got the Summit E13 Flip Evo to reach 13.5 hours. The Specter x360 14 ran for nine hours and the XPS 13 for 10.75 hours in this test, which makes the MSI's score impressive. In the PCMark 10 gaming battery test, which stresses the CPU and GPU, the Summit E13 Flip Evo scores 2.5 hours better than many laptops – although this test seems to demonstrate how hard a laptop runs on battery power instead of directly testing battery life .

Ultimately, battery life is a strength of the Summit E13 Flip Evo. It runs all day, leaving some time for evening work or Netflix bingeing. You don't have to worry about taking your PSU with you unless you really put a load on the processors.

Our opinion

The MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo is a useful addition to the stable 13-inch convertible 2-in-1. It's fast, has a long battery life, and looks great. The lid is a bit flexible and a bit expensive in its high-end configuration, but I found it to be a comfortable laptop for real world use.

The problem is that there are a lot of competitors. The MSI is as good as most of them, just make sure you choose the right configuration to avoid spending too much.

Any alternatives?

The HP Specter x360 14 is a great alternative. It's not that fast (at least without activating the performance mode), but it has a spectacular 13.5-inch OLED display with a 3: 2 aspect ratio. It's almost as expensive as the MSI when configured with the OLED display, but it only comes with a maximum of 16GB of RAM compared to the Summit E13 Flip Evo's 32GB.

The Dell XPS 13 is another great option if you don't need a 2-in-1. It's just as fast, has good battery life, and is better built – there's a reason it tops several best-of lists.

How long it will take?

The Summit E13 Flip Evo is so well built that you don't have to worry about its longevity. In addition, it is future-proof equipped with modern components such as the fast Wi-Fi 6E. The one year warranty will always be disappointing.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. You will love using the Summit E13 Flip Evo; Just be prepared to pay a few extra dollars if you go for the high-end version.

Editor's recommendations



09 Sep
Blog

Life is Strange: True Colors Review: An Emotional Triumph

Alex in Life is Strange: True Colors

Life is Strange: True Colors Review: An Emotional Triumph

RRP $ 59.99

"Warm and moving, the only thing Life is Strange: True Colors stumbles over is its own words."

advantages

  • A similar story

  • Warm moments

  • Happy characters

disadvantage

  • Random pace

  • Pathetic dialogue

  • Inconspicuous optics

If you're looking for a mental health story, it's that easy to find one by logging into Twitter and scrolling a little. Media, regardless of its format, now have a way of presenting the wide range of mental health problems. The theme of widespread depression or anxiety has taken hold and is now represented by the characters in the games we play and the shows we watch. At some point, many of us noticed that something was wrong internally, something was not good.

Life is Strange: True Colors is about that notion – that we are all broken or wrong in our own unique way. However, the story it tells isn't just about coping with everyday life. It's not a healthy lifestyle anyway. It is about accepting these imperfections, addressing them directly and, in some cases, fighting for life to be the way it should be.

This message comes alive through the game's wonderful characters, each with their own experiences and traumas. It's nearly impossible to complete Life is Strange: True Colors without referring to Alex or one of her friends. Even with a staggered story pace and sometimes repulsive dialogue, the game managed to connect with me in a way that not many have done before.

In someone else's shoes

Life is Strange: True Colors puts players in the shoes of Alex Chen, a woman who has apparently been through everything. She spent a large part of her life with the foster family, whom I don't know firsthand, but who have known them all too well through the experiences of a close friend. With a look at their phone, players can see that even the few social relationships they established during their time in the system weren't working. One ends with Alex haunting a boy who expects her to have sex after a few meetings, another ends because Alex seems to have "freaked out".

This freak was caused by Alex & # 39; causes latent force that is not as spectacular as flying or shooting laser beams. Instead, she's an odd mix of a telepath and an empath (a telempath, if you will). She can see how people feel, visualized by colorful auras that appear around their bodies. When someone feels something, they can tap into it and understand the reasons for their emotions. Overall, it's a powerful tool that she and the players can use to get to the heart of each character's motivation. When someone acts out of fear or anger, Alex can identify this deep-seated emotion and bring it to the surface.

Alex with her guitar in Life is Strange: True Colors.

However, if she really gets into someone's feelings, Alex & # 39; Forces to lead them elsewhere. Instead of simply seeing how someone is feeling – albeit on a deeper level than most others – she can see the world through her eyes, filtered by her emotions. Sometimes this experience is bizarre and puts Alex into a Dungeons and Dragons-esque world that a kid imagines. Other experiences are not as pleasant, but still poignant. In one of these passages, Alex sees through the frightened eyes of a woman who is slowly losing her memory of a "state" through the lens of her fear of eventually failing to remember basic things, like the face of her own granddaughter. Those moments came close to me in the end as terrifyingly brilliant depictions of the fear, anger, and fear I felt in my own life.

Sometimes this experience is bizarre and puts Alex into a Dungeons and Dragons-esque world that a kid imagines. Other experiences are not as pleasant, but still poignant.

The negative emotions players experience in Life is Strange: True Colors are balanced equally by moments of tenderness and real joy. The game begins with Alex arriving in the town of Haven Springs, Colorado to move in with her brother Gabe. The first day they are together is one healthy moment after the other, whereby the calm, restrained shell that Alex has built up over the years slowly flakes off as she sees her brother and the close family he has in the little one City has built, is presented.

Family found

That perfect day ends with Gabe's death, an event that sets the rest of the game's plot in motion. Alex and her two best friends Steph (returning from Life is Strange: Before The Storm) and Ryan begin investigating a mining company that was in town and set off an explosion that caused Gabe's death. This story of corporate espionage and intrigue, however, largely takes a backseat in four of the game's five chapters. There are moments when you focus directly on that plot, but for most of the game, the spotlight is on Alex and her slow but safe habituation to a place that is safe at home.

This ultimately creates a strange imbalance in a story that I generally enjoyed and that I eventually connected with. Alex's battle against the Typhon mining company seems to be the focus at all times. Instead, however, it provides an ominous backdrop for Alex & # 39; her own story of personal improvement and how she comes to terms with her new role in Haven Springs as a person who recognizes himself as broken but feels the need to fix others.

For most of the game, players walk around the small, quaint town, interacting with the locals, and helping them with their own problems. Through these little interactions, Alex builds her own found family, slowly replacing the one who either died or left them.

The city of Haven Springs in Life is Strange: True Colors.

While most of these moments are touching, they're also where writing Life is Strange: True Colors is worst. Sometimes everything the game's characters say is powerful and relatable, but sometimes the words sound hollow (and sometimes they are downright inappropriate). Alex, a 21-year-old, doesn't have to spit out Internet-era memes when looking at random objects in the area. That makes them less of a relatable example to people my age (which may be a stretch since I'm at the ripe old age of 25) and more like a caricature.

The story of Life is Strange: True Colors, while slow for most, is entertaining. It's not a chore, but rather a pleasant walk that can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. However, that feeling changes completely in the final act of the game when things take an extremely sharp turn. The story is entirely about Alex & # 39; Getting used to their new surroundings directly leads to their conflict with Typhon. It's a dramatic twist that really grabs you. While I could stop playing at any time in the first few chapters of the game, I had to stop after the fifth hit.

While most of these moments are touching, they're also where writing Life is Strange: True Colors is worst.

In this final chapter, players are also given one of the game's six endings. At this point, I've only worked my way through the game once, but will likely try again to experience all of the things I've missed that the game generously displays at the end of each chapter. I don't think it's possible to have a really "bad" ending, but there are some who would be worse than others, at least for me. I tried to get Alex to find one of the game's two love interests, and I succeeded. There are several other important decisions players make about Alex & # 39; Future may meet, but I will not dwell on these spoilers.

Our opinion

There's no easy way to recommend Life is Strange: True Colors. Like the rest of the Life is Strange franchise, it's not a typical game. It's more like a visual novel or a point-and-click adventure. The game is a slow, fun experience, perfect if you want to end the night or get up in the morning.

Beyond that, however, it is an emotional triumph. Alex & # 39; Experiencing adventure and seeing the world through its excellently designed perspective is a joy that hit me harder than I expected. I've often written off the Life is Strange franchise as inaccurate and never gave it the chance it deserved. However, Alex's story and the trials of those around them sounded true to me. Your fears, fears and other emotions are all personal and come from a place that I consider to be common. Fear of old age, anger at corporations and their endless greed, as well as sadness and anger after the loss of a loved one, are not only reserved for the characters of this game – they are universal feelings. Life is Strange: True Colors, despite its unbalanced story and sometimes pathetic dialogues, uses its emotional weight masterfully.

Is there a better alternative?

Telltale's The Walking Dead still reigns first in this genre. It's a perfect emotional story for those looking for a more mature game.

How long it will take?

My play through of Life is Strange: True Colors took about 10 hours, but that was just one play-through. Players can go through the game multiple times to find their ideal ending.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. Life is Strange: True Colors is assignable at almost any level and offers a solid experience for those who like slower, more relaxed games.

Editor's recommendations



09 Sep
Blog

Razer Basilisk V3 Review: Not Revolutionary, But Still Good

Razer Basilisk V3 top overview

Razer Basilisk V3

RRP $ 70.00

"The Basilisk V3 from Razer is an all-rounder gaming mouse."

advantages

  • Tons of RGB

  • 10 + 1 programmable buttons

  • Optical switches

  • Great 26K sensor

  • Quality cable

disadvantage

  • Heavy for a wired mouse

  • More attractive competition

Razer makes a lot of gaming mice, and the Basilisk is one of its most admired offerings. Today the company is releasing a new, updated variant: the Basilisk V3. Razer has slightly updated its design, adding a new sensor and a freely rotating scroll wheel, and even added a little more RGB to be on the safe side.

This isn't the Basilisk Ultra wireless – the Basilisk V3 comes with a traditional cable – but that means it's only $ 70. The third iteration of the Razer Basilisk isn't revolutionary, but the upgrades mean this standby mouse is still one of the best wired mice you can buy.

draft

A front view of the Razer Basilisk V3 with the side buttons and RGB.

Starting with the design of the mouse, Razer has kept the shape of the mouse largely identical to the previous one – a slightly ergonomic right-handed gaming mouse that is great for palm and claw grips. With a medium size, unless you have particularly small hands, chances are good that this pointer will make you prone to a claw grip, especially in play.

Weighing in at 101 grams, the mouse is a bit heavy by today's standards, especially for a wired mouse. The advantage here is that Razer didn't shave the shell to make it ultra-light, so the mouse instills confidence in the build quality. The middle is made of textured plastic with some shiny elements, while the left thumb rest and right handle are made of a nice, grippy rubber material.

Previously, the Razer logo and scroll wheel were lit like they are here, but the V3 adds an RGB strip along most of the mouse's bottom perimeter, creating a sort of under-lighting effect that looks pretty dashing.

A look at the plush cord of the Razer Basilisk V3.

And then there is the cable that can be the elephant in the room for many gaming mice today. That's not the case here as Razer did a good job with it. Companies have relentlessly developed their wireless technology over the past few years to get rid of the cable, but that doesn't mean cable evolution has stopped: the Basilisk V3 has a thick, pretty braided cable, but it's extremely light and oh so flexible, that you hardly notice your presence. Yeah, you see it, but it doesn't look that bad.

The main competitor of the Razer is the G502 Hero from Logitech, a mouse with almost identical design and functionality. In terms of shape at least, although the dimensions are nearly identical, the G502 is a bit fuller and has more angular edges – it's not as round as the Basilisk V3, and I prefer it. But there is very little in it, and if you don't have the two next to each other, you can't tell which one you like more.

Buttons and sensors

A bottom view of the Razer Basilisk V3 with sensor and slippery pads.

The Basilisk V3 is powered by Razer's 26K DPI Focus + sensor, and while there's no situation where I can recommend games at this type of DPI, it's a good sensor. It's responsive and tracks accurately with no acceleration. Tracking is said to be accurate at up to 650 IPS, and while I haven't tested that number, I personally play with a low DPI and the V3 was more than able to keep up with my fast flicks over long distances.

The Basilisk V3 is a mouse fast enough to keep up with you, the gamer.

Meanwhile, under the main left and right buttons, Razer has implemented its second generation optical mouse switches, which is another factor that adds to the Basilisk V3's gaming pedigree. Although conventional buttons are very fast, the advantage of an optical switch is that the mouse controller does not have to consider debouncing, which leads to faster actuations – as soon as the button is pressed and the optical signal is interrupted, the actuation signal is sent to the PC.

Combine that with the mouse's 1000Hz polling rate and you can be sure that whatever leads to your in-game death, it isn't the mouse.

Other properties

But the fun with the Basilisk V3 doesn't end there. One of the most important upgrades that I personally really appreciate is the scroll wheel. It now spins freely at the touch of a button, making navigating large text and websites a breeze. The catch is that the V2 mouse's adjustable resistance is gone, but I'd say this is a justified compromise.

A side view of the Razer Basilisk V3 with purple RGB.

The second highlight of the Basilisk V3 is the hypershift button – a button directly in front of the thumb that briefly lowers the DPI when pressed. Think of this as some sort of sniper mode, and when you press it, you can aim more accurately to aim your shot. The button has been redesigned from the V2 mouse to a more subtle implementation.

In the meantime, all of the buttons on the mouse are fully customizable, and there's a button at the bottom to toggle through different profiles. This last feature is ideal when you play multiple types of games and need completely different mouse assignments. For example, you may need a low DPI profile for FPS shooters who have specific buttons assigned to throw grenades or switch to your melee weapon, but then want to switch to high DPI and other button assignments for strategy games. It's all easy to configure in the Razer software, and the button below makes switching between them a breeze.

Gaming performance

A view showing the top of the Razer Basilisk V3.

To test the gaming performance of the Razer Basilisk V3, I jumped straight into Insurgency Sandstorm as this is a realistic first person shooter game that is ideal for testing a gaming mouse. With my friends we play this game as a team of people against the highest possible number of bots – a real challenge – and the Basilisk V3 has more than kept up with my gameplay.

My usual go-to mouse is the Logitech G Pro X Superlight, and while the Basilisk V3 didn't quite go with it, it wasn't far from it either. Every new mouse takes getting used to, and the Superlight is both much lighter and wireless – but also twice as expensive and as feature-rich as a piece of cardboard. This is a strong argument in favor of the Basilisk V3.

Our opinion

Razer's Basilisk V3 might not be a huge update, but its newly shaped hypershift button, free-spinning scroll wheel, updated sensor, and added RGB component make it interesting and certainly worth considering.

It's not a mouse to get excited about, but it's a good all-rounder and, thanks to its scroll wheel and semi-ergonomic shape, a good option for both gaming and general desktop use.

Are there alternatives?

The main competitor is Logitech's G502 Hero, which has a very similar shape. While it doesn't have as many RGB or optical switches in it, it has two more programmable buttons, tunable weights, and a more modern, angular design. It's also often discounted to just $ 50, making it a more compelling option overall and making it one of the best gaming mice out there.

In the meantime, Corsair's Nightsword RGB may be better suited if you have a Corsair-themed setup. It also has a ton of RGB and a similar set of features.

How long it will take?

Under normal circumstances, the Basilisk V3 should last at least about five years. Razer's warranty covers it for two.

Should I buy it?

Yes sir. If you're looking for a new gaming mouse, are looking for a good jack of all trades, and are looking for something that will fit a Razer setup, the Basilisk V3 is an excellent buy, although it might be worth waiting for can be reduced to $ 50.

Editor's recommendations



08 Sep
Blog

Tales of Arise Review: Another Step Forward for JRPGs

tales of rise review screenshot 3 04212021 1619049970996 160w

Tales of Arise Review: Another Step into the Future of JRPGs

RRP $ 60.00

"Tales of Arise is a big step towards the development of the JRPG and a must for fans of the genre."

advantages

  • Excellent fight

  • Funny characters

  • Strong topics

  • Nice look

  • Funny twists of the genre

2021 has been a great year for the Japanese RPG genre so far, and Tales of Arise only adds to a strong lineup. When I played a demo of it earlier this year, I wanted to learn more about the fight, the characters, and the story. The finished product keeps the promise of the game and a lot more.

Tales of Arise is the latest in Bandai Namco's long-running JRPG franchise known as the "Tales of" franchise. However, Arise is a unique turning point, adopting an entirely new style of fighting and seemingly benefiting from a bigger budget (when it comes to the graphics). This fresh feeling was palpable throughout my playthrough and reminded me of classic blockbuster JRPGs from earlier days. While the story isn't all that groundbreaking, the characters, gameplay, graphics, and themes of race and freedom have put me on a par with the game's standout characters throughout my adventure.

This is one of those JRPGs that entertains from start to finish, and a title no fan of the genre wants to skip.

Weighty issues

Tales of Arise puts players in control of the mysterious Iron Mask, later called Alphen, a member of the Dahnan race who wear an unusual mask on their head and lack pain receptors. He and the rest of his race are enslaved by the technologically advanced Renans, or "Bright Eyes," as the Dahnan lovingly call them. These Renans are ruled by five lords from five regions, each of whom participates in a long-term game to find out who will become the most powerful lord of the lords. Alphen, a group of Dahnan rebels, and Shionne, their enigmatic new ally Renan, team up to defeat these rulers.

Shionne and Alphen become a powerful duo and embark on an adventure that spans all five regions of the world to defeat the Lords one after the other. In usual JRPG fashion, the two encounter more party members, who grow in numbers as they comb the regions.

The party has always been one of the main draws of Tales of Games as the series features "sketches". These are little comic-style cutscenes in which the characters interact with each other in conversations that reveal their quirks. The Tales of Arise party members are so entertaining that I checked out every one of these chats I could.

The history of these races and the environments they share contribute to the spectacular world building in Tales of Arise.

As with other JRPGs, the game delves into political themes. Alphen questions what true freedom really is and wonders what his future will be when he accomplishes his mission to free his enslaved brothers and sisters. These issues, as well as the racial relations between the members of the Dahnan party and the only Renan in the group, really caught my eye because they are so well written. As a black player, the topics are very popular with me. I loved seeing Alphen's range of emotions expressed in the face of his oppressors. For example, he approaches a partner with some discomfort who shares the same blood with his oppressors, but is also ready to show them forgiveness. He's a protagonist that I can stand behind.

The history of these races and the world they share contributes to the spectacular world building in Tales of Arise. I enjoyed how much the history of this world is a driving force as the adventure progresses. Despite these great parts, I still found the game a bit generic in terms of the storyline. It follows the usual beats that a lot of JRPGs make and instead is carried by great characters and gameplay. The story is still fun, it just offers nothing too groundbreaking aside from its strong thematic undertones.

One step beyond Final Fantasy

The Tales of series has always been known for its struggles. Players are constantly looking for new combinations and techniques to use in the game, and I'm here to say that Tales of Arise won't disappoint, whether you're a casual gamer or a die-hard gamer like me.

The new Linear Motion Battle System is more or less what we got in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake with additional bells and whistles. Combos are even more important in this system as they give players a few more gimmicks to play around with. For example, there are healing points, or CP, which limit how many healing spells players can use before resting in an inn or campsite, or before using an item to refill them.

The battles are close to FF7R's hack-and-slash style, featuring launcher, juggling, and more classic stories of the staples fans will love to see again. Artes or spells and special attacks also reappear in Tales of Arise with an additional rule. The more often they are used in a combination, the less effective they are. That, along with their need to regenerate after spending Artes Gauge (AG) points to use them, adds an extra strategy to the fight, which is a welcome challenge.

There are some super attacks that will be unlocked as the game progresses. including team attacks that can be used to inflict a ton of damage on an enemy and everyone around them once players hit a certain combo threshold. Boost attacks, which players can use as soon as a character's boost meter fills up, can counter enemy shields and spells directly. You can also extend combos with additional damage and fill up the Artes gauge. And there are solo vengeance super attacks that can be unleashed once a character takes a certain amount of damage without being knocked out.

This fight is so addicting that the usual RPG grind is not an issue. During my grind sessions, I experimented with how deep the combo system could go. During combat, players can perform character switch combos and fierce laser cannon juggling, use the menu to switch their move list, or immediately launch an attack in the middle of the combo. I love the variety of options available. And yes, like the older Tales of games, players can get their allies to do nothing, giving them full control over the group's actions.

The visuals bring it all together

If the weighty story and complex battles don't attract casual gamers, Tales of Arise's graphics will. The game is absolutely great, to the point that it's one of the first games in a long time that makes me think it's totally worth playing on a next-gen console (should you afford one or find one). I've played on a PlayStation so I can definitely say that with both generations you will still get the most of it.

On my travels through this fantasy world, I got lost in the surroundings or even looked a little at the character models after changing their outfits. When you reach the water-filled caves and meadows in particular, you will see exactly what I mean. It's a game that looks like a beautiful painting at times.

All of these visuals are complemented by an amazingly orchestrated soundtrack that builds on every moment, whether the party is storming a castle to take on the next lord or taking a breather by the campfire.

Our opinion

Tales of Arise is a game I would recommend to anyone looking for the "future" of the JRPG genre. This game could easily be Bandai Namco's Final Fantasy 7. It feels like it was tailor-made for the era and pushes the boundaries of RPGs thanks to complex battles, weighty stories, and beautiful graphics.

How long it will take?

Tales of Arise lasts around 60 hours, depending on how much a completer and combat addict you are. I'm both so there is a good meaty game for you here.

Is there an alternative?

Scarlet Nexus and Final Fantasy 7 Remake are powerful action RPGs for anyone looking for alternatives. Both games feature similar solid battles, but stronger stories.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. If you are looking for another JRPG to add to your collection or are curious about the series and need an entry point, it is highly recommended that you jump in.

Editor's recommendations



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