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‘Monster Hunter Now’ Season 3 To Add Magnamalo, Heavy Bowgun Weapon, Cooking, and More on September 11th – TouchArcade

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‘Monster Hunter Now’ Season 3 To Add Magnamalo, Heavy Bowgun Weapon, Cooking, and More on September 11th – TouchArcade


Niantic and Capcom just detailed the next major update coming to Monster Hunter Now (Free). Monster Hunter Now Season 3 “Curse of the Wandering Flames” sees Magnamalo arrive as the first Monster Hunter Rise original monster joining the Monster Hunter Now roster. Alongside Magnamalo, two other monsters join in the action including my favorite: Rajang. The final monster addition is Aknosom. Monster Hunter Now’s Season 3 update also brings in a new weapon, the Heavy Bowgun, cooking as a feature, and more. I’m curious to see how Magnamalo and Rajang are in-game as I adore hunting both of them in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak and Monster Hunter World: Iceborne for Rajang. Check out Magnamalo’s artwork for Monster Hunter Now below:

Check out some of the new gear from the update below:

If you’ve not played Monster Hunter Now recently or are planning to just start playing, I put together tips and tricks for the game, details on the weapons, special skills, the current monsters list, my wishlist for future update monsters, and more. You can grab Monster Hunter Now on the App Store for iOS here and on Google Play for Android here. The in app purchases include different sets of gems and upgrades. Check out the official website here. What do you think of the current state of the game and are you looking forward to Teostra next month?



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Blue Exorcist Another Story’ From Aniplex Gets a New Trailer Ahead of Its Launch on Mobile and PC – TouchArcade

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Blue Exorcist Another Story’ From Aniplex Gets a New Trailer Ahead of Its Launch on Mobile and PC – TouchArcade


At Anime NYC this weekend, Aniplex USA shared more details for its upcoming 3D action RPG Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story (). Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story is in development for iOS, Android, and Windows release this year. Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story is based on the Blue Exorcist IP, and the story of the game features new original characters showcased in the game’s new trailer. In addition to this new trailer, pre-orders and pre-registrations have gone live for the game. Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story sees you taking on the role of an exorcist assigned to the Special Investigations Unit in the Japanese branch of the Knights of the True Cross. Watch the new trailer below:

Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story doesn’t have a confirmed release date yet, and the App Store page also confirms that the date listed there is a placeholder. If you’d like to try Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story, you can pre-order it on the App Store for iOS here and on Google Play for Android here. Check out the official website here where a lot of the pre-registration reward tiers are detailed. Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story is due this summer on iOS, Android, and Windows. What do you think of Alterna Vvelt: Blue Exorcist Another Story so far?



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Most expensive necklace in the World: Jewels That outshine Confidence

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Most expensive necklace in the World: Jewels That outshine Confidence




August 26, 2024








Nothing speaks of luxury and elegance like a necklace—the perfect piece of jewelry for the lady of distinction. Necklaces have always been much more than mere ornaments, they have been precious icons of status, richness, and the ability to show due respect to the finest aspects of life.

They are worn on the necks of queens, celebrities, or other high-profile individuals, and with this comes history, elegance, and power. There are countless most expensive necklace in the world that were made over centuries and millennia, but there are a few rare ones that are unmatched not only in terms of their appearance but also in terms of their value.

This is the story of the most expensive necklaces in the world, which cost as much as it tells about the artistic brilliance enshrined in the piece. Sculpted using only the finest materials, including exquisite stones, these masterpiece necklaces are far more than a mere fashion accessory.

This is a historical masterpiece of human creation, a living art, a showcase of how luxury can be defined with precision and elegance, and a representation of what is possible when talent, determination, and the very best of materials are combined. These necklaces are not just an ornament; it is history, pronunciation, and, more importantly, art, and for that matter, the final epitome of luxury.

In this blog, we are going to discuss the most expensive necklaces in the world and how they are capturing the eyes of individuals from all over the world. Our discussion will cover the necklaces’ rich history.

1. A Heritage in Bloom

A Heritage in Bloom

The Wallace Chan magic we can call it, This necklace is designed and crafted by a Chinese jeweler Wallace Chan, The necklace is called “A Heritage in Bloom”. It is considered one of the most expensive necklace in the world when it was revealed in front of the entire world.

If we talk about the specification of this necklace it has 11,551 diamonds that weigh a total of 383.4octs, The inspiration behind the design of this necklace comes from Chinese culture itself. The bats and butterflies are featured as the symbolic icons for this necklace.

The story goes back to Hong Kong, where Chow Tai Fook asked Chan to craft and create this famous necklace, Chow Tai Fook is the owner of Cullinan Heritage diamonds. In this piece of jewel, 24 D-colour internally flawless diamonds are cut from 507.55ct rough stone, which also includes the 104ct centerpiece revolved around jade.

There are some amazing things associated with this masterpiece, it took more than 47,000 hours to complete this necklace and it can be styled in 27 different ways. It is the most expensive necklace in the world for a reason. 

2. The Blue Belle of Asia

The Blue Belle of Asia

As the name suggests “The Blue Belle of Asia” is considered one of the fabled pieces of sapphires in the world. Due to its rarity, this is the most expensive sapphire in the whole world. In November 2014 it was bought by Christie’s Geneva.

This piece of luxury jewelry went through the process of bidding, in which the initial bid price was 6,650,00 Swiss Francs (approximately $6.9 million), and later on it was bought by an unidentified individual which is not known till now at the final prize of 16,965,000 Swiss Francs ($17,564,156).

There’s an interesting story behind this gem as it was first found in Ratnapura in 1926. Back in those days it was owned by a famous gem dealer called Macan Markar “Colombo”. Macan Markar also started this famous firm called O.L.M. Markar has clients from the British Royal family.

Markar used to consider this sapphire as one of his prized possessions, later on in 973 it was sold to Lord Nuffield who was the founder of famous Morris Motors. These ornaments are very rare and exclusive which  makes them so expensive and they cannot be bought just directly. These special stones can only be purchased via auction and the “The Blue Belle of Asia” is ranked as the most esteemed gemstone in the world. 

3. L’Incomparable Necklace

The Most Expensive Necklace in the World L’Incomparable Necklace

Being sold for $55 million, the L’Incomparable Necklace is a still unparalleled piece of jewelry art that can be hardly considered a simple piece of jewelry. This is a splendid necklace that has been developed based on a single concept: the largest internally flawless diamond in the world, which is 407.

The 48-carat gem is popularly referred to as the Incomparable Diamond. It was cut in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the 1980s. The diamond was tipped as worthless when a young girl stumbled on it while sorting through a pile of debris.

In fact, later they came to know it to be a unique and extremely valuable stone without any comparison in size or quality. Mouawad, the luxury jeweler, has designed this necklace, and it is a tremendous combination of innovation and beauty.

The remaining arrangement of petals showcases 90 white diamonds that amount to almost 230 carats and are all set in rose gold in a most unconventional, maddening, and beautiful pattern. The design emphasizes the fact that this is a triangular cut diamond and makes sure that the light reflects off the stone in the most alluring manner.

L’Incomparable Necklace is not only a piece of jewelry but an admiring piece of art that was created by mankind, found in the bowels of Earth, and turns into the symbol of the uppermost chic. It is therefore no exaggeration to speak about this necklace as the true jewel, which is highly appreciated and sought after by collectors all over the world and can be admired from a close distance very rarely.

4. The Heart of the Ocean Diamond Necklace

The Heart of the Ocean Diamond Necklace

One more renowned beautiful jewel is the Heart of the Ocean Diamond Necklace, which is estimated at $20 million. This is an extremely beautiful piece of jewelry that is famous for its incredible design and its core gemstone.

The necklace consists of a stunning dark blue diamond, described as being similar to the Hope diamond, that is surrounded by a design of platinum and diamonds. It is not only the beauty of the stone that captivates people on the one hand but also its background and provenience on the other hand.

This version of the necklace was in fact based on the one that was worn by the character of Rose portrayed by actress Kate Winslet in the movie ‘Titanic,’ and it does not surprise that it copies all the features of the motion picture’s legend by its exquisite and utterly unique charm.

The central diamond is 45 impressive carats in weight. It is famous for its size, which is 52 carats, and it shines bright because of its top-quality color, clarity, and cut. In addition to the main diamond on the centerpiece are additional plots made in a subtle network that add to the luster of the necklace and provide an aesthetic rhythm of bright and dark.

The Heart of the Ocean is not only just a jewel; it is an art that is of the highest standards of art and beauty, and the sole sight of this piece was enchanting and awe-inspiring. Apart from the cost of the actual diamonds and the uniqueness of the item, the price includes the craftsmanship of creating an item as a symbol of an era.

5. Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace

The Most Expensive Necklace in the World Hutton Mdivani Jadeite Necklace

A Jadeite necklace valued at $27 million is owned by the Hutton-Mdivani family. It is a fine image of the exquisite standards and history within the world of high jewelry. This piece is well-known for its Beyond Wonderful jadeite cabochons, jadeite is one of the most prized gemstones in the world due to its scarcity.

There are 27 jadeite beads in the necklace, carefully chosen high-quality jadeites with regard to their color, which is bright green with brilliant luster. These beads are interconnected with each other with no gap, so the design of this piece of jewelry is harmonious, and the real beauty of the jadeite color is revealed.

The necklace is traditionally named after the socialite and philanthropist Barbara Hutton and Princess Himmeh Mdivani, whose additional provenance enhances the value of that piece.

It was taken in by Ruth Seymour Hutton, a widely famous American heiress famous for her extravagant lifestyle and penchant for the finest in everything in the 1930s. This is shaped as a piece of timeless elegance that speaks of its history, this necklace is a work of art to which collectors and admirers of vintage pieces cannot remain indifferent.

The worth of the Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace extends far deeper than the aesthetic appeal and rarity of the piece; it is in historical importance, paired with the fact that only the most recognizable celebrities have ever been able to wear it.

The jadeite beads that are used have to meet certain criteria as far as color, translucency, and texture are concerned, and each bead is selected with these qualities in mind. This appraisal extensively vindicates the attributes of sheer superb workmanship, finest quality jadeite, and business of legend behind this grand jewel—the necklace.

6. The Red Emperor Necklace

The Red Emperor Necklace

The Red Emperor Necklace costs $10 million, and it has to be one of the most enduring pieces of haute couture jewelry ever made. This piece is most remarkable for the centerpiece—an incredible red diamond, which is even rarer than the blue one.

Weighing approximately 3.02 carats, the red diamond is famous for its rich and strong tone and wonder, which cannot be observed in any other gemstone. The red diamond is located in a necklace made with remarkable detail in combination with diamonds and precious metals that serve to complement the intense color of the central diamond.

The setting of the necklace also features an extra pave of white diamonds that create a ballet of contrast to the visibility of the red diamond. What is produced is, therefore, a piece that also articulates the best characteristics of a red diamond alongside the design brilliance worthy of top-tier jewelry niches.

The Red Emperor Necklace is not just a piece of jewelry worn to convey a sign of wealth but can also be a sign of the type of personality that the owner has and the type of gemstone that the owner loves to wear.

The fact that the Red Emperor Necklace could be valued so highly is due to the fact that red diamonds are one of the rarest and most valuable diamonds in the world. These are rare due to the elaborate work and superior quality workmanship of the necklace, which raises the price significantly.

The Red Emperor Necklace could not be a better illustration of how a single stone is enough to bring life and color to the necklace and turn it into an art piece that collectors would lay down their lives to own.

7. A Diamond and Emerald Necklace by Bulgari

A Diamond and Emerald Necklace by Bulgari

The spectacular and one-of-a-kind necklace is a true masterpiece of Bulgari’s high jewelry collection, and it is estimated to be worth $3 million! This stunner is admired for its creation of an elegant diamond setting augmented with bright and vibrant emerald stones that are characteristic of the Bulgari brand.

This model is adorned with an impressive necklace set, which comes with a multitude of cut diamonds coordinated in a unique manner that first captures attention with the quality and flexibility of the cuts. Accompanying these sparkling diamonds are fine emerald, green stones characterized by high clarity and rich color.

Every emerald is hand-picked because of its shade and clarity; this contrast with the lacelike setting of the surrounding diamonds makes this design unique.

The necklace that is presented is also typical for Bulgari, where the timeless classics are combined with the tendencies of the present days. In the current designs, the use of the four Cs will be done in a manner that will make the emeralds’ setting to be elegant and appealing to the eyes.

The setting of the necklace tends to be of first-class platinum or gold, thus offering a perfect background that enhances the glow of the stones and the tones of colors.

The above Bulgari necklace was valued at $3 million, and they have got it right in terms of the quality of the gemstones, finishing, and the reputation of the Bulgari brand. This piece is a testimony of the volume of elegance that defines fine jewelry pieces, which, while retaining classical feelings, presents a touch of contemporary liberalization.

Its value is a result of the rarity of the emeralds, the brilliance of the diamonds, and the absolutely total professionalism with which Bulgari approached the creation of masterpieces of haute couture jewelry.

8. Leviev’s Diamond Necklace

The Most Expensive Necklace in the World Leviev's Diamond Necklace

One of the well-known masterpieces of Leviev’s creation is a diamond necklace that is worth $10 million; it is the embodiment of the jewelry traditions of exquisite taste and refinement. This phenomenal creation is set with a range of the world’s finest diamonds, famous for their fire and clarity.

The necklace features an elaborate setting of diamonds, with each piece of diamond having been expertly placed and cut to give the best glittering and shine. The diamonds are mounted on a precious metal, which may be platinum or white gold, and this serves to complement the cut of the gemstone while providing a backdrop on which to display the luminosity integral to the diamond.

Leviev’s diamond necklace is not just big in terms of size and the number of diamonds, but it is also conceptually superior, more creative, and visually arresting than its rivals. Despite the presence of larger gems, it presents the stones in such a way that one cannot help but appreciate their individual sparkle.

An element that often appears in the design of the necklace is the use of several diamond cuts—round brilliants, marquises, or pears—all the stones are placed next to each other, creating an amazing effect. Such an arrangement is considerate in the sense that the necklace is able to light up from all sides, leading to the brightness and sparkle of the piece.

The $10 million worth price of Leviev’s Diamond Necklace is an indication of the diligence that went into modeling the necklace and the quality of the diamonds that were used to make it.

Leviev is one of the most famous high jewelry companies in the world and is famous for its ability to buy some of the largest and best quality diamonds and cut them into fantastic shapes that really suit the jewelry.

This necklace is so much more than just a jewelry piece; it is the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship, to become a true standout in any collection of luxurious jewelry.

9. Marie Antoinette’s Necklace

Marie Antoinette’s Necklace

Marie Antoinette Necklace also known as the Diamond Necklace Affair is one of the most famous and of course most expensive jewelry items of all times. The necklace as an ornament is perfect and magnificent; it symbolizes the royal taste of the French queen and the crisis of pre-revolutionary France.

Made in the second half of the eighteenth century, the necklace was ordered by the renowned firm of Boehmer and Bassenge. It has a mind-blowing 647 diamonds and is arranged in a masterpiece that is classy to the extreme and yet it has that over-the-top appeal to it.

In the middle of the necklace is a series of diamonds of different shapes and sizes each set in a way that ensures that the light emitted from the diamonds is out of this world.

It is perhaps for that reason that the necklace gained notoriety as a result of the “Affair of the Diamond Necklace,” which involved the French court. The crime was a plan to steal the necklace on the pretext of purchasing it for the Queen and then bringing her to the investing of funds embezzled by the Police. While the queen never participated in it, her name was stained and public unrest that fueled the French Revolution grew.

In the contemporary world, the necklace is valued not only for its craftsmanship, and the quality of diamonds used for its creation but for being a part of the history of human civilization.

It is a symbol of the hedonism of the royal family of France and is a reminder of the materialistic richness of that period. The necklace hence cannot be valued, it is an example of artwork, and the history that it forms part of cannot be quantified.

10. The Christie’s Diamond Necklace

The Most Expensive Necklace in the World The Christie’s Diamond Necklace

A stunning and breathtaking piece of high jewelry is the Christie’s Diamond Necklace, which is estimated at a wonderful $8,000,000. This stunning creation is well known for the special attention paid to its workmanship and the caliber of diamonds used. The necklace has a range of shaped round brilliant cut diamonds, hand-picked for their ‘fire,’ and set in a pattern that will enhance the flames.

The focus of the Christie’s Diamond Necklace is usually a single big stone or, in best cases, several distinct big diamonds surrounded by a number of stones that enlighten and sparkle magically.

The ‘jewelry design’ as the name implies generally involves a more refined pattern that brings the shine of the diamonds to life, be it in the basic line of formation or an artistic formation. The necklace is made from precious alloys, including platinum or white gold, that give the diamond a classy and elegant background.

This has been valued at $8 million, which we can also see is a result of the scarcity and quality of the pieces as well as the workmanship put into a piece such as this. Christie’s, which specializes in auctions and luxury jewelry, guarantees that each jewelry piece is a perfect example of exquisite class and craftsmanship.

Some other factors that informed the value of the necklace are the possible historical value of the jewelry as well as the value of Christie’s brand. Due to its nature as a unique and extraordinary piece, Christie’s Diamond Necklace is one of the most desired pieces of luxury jewelry by most collectors and lovers of jewelry items.

11. The Blue Moon Necklace

The Blue Moon Necklace

The Blue Moon Necklace, with its eye-watering valuation of $48.4 million, stands as a paragon of opulence and extraordinary craftsmanship in the realm of high jewelry. This breathtaking creation, designed by the prestigious jeweler Mouawad, showcases a stunning 12.03-carat Blue Moon diamond, which is one of the rarest and most sought-after gemstones globally.

The diamond’s captivating deep blue hue, achieved through a natural and exceptionally rare combination of elements, is further accentuated by its cushion cut, a shape that maximizes its brilliance and scintillation.

The meticulous craftsmanship of the necklace extends beyond the central gem, with the diamond being set in a luxurious platinum setting that not only supports but amplifies the stone’s inherent beauty. Surrounding the central Blue Moon diamond is a halo of exquisitely matched smaller diamonds, each carefully selected for their clarity and brilliance, creating a dazzling contrast that highlights the central gem’s striking color.

The necklace’s design is a testament to the mastery and artistry of its creators, blending classic elegance with modern sophistication. Unveiled at a high-profile auction, the Blue Moon Necklace immediately garnered global attention and admiration, not just for its staggering price tag, but for its unparalleled rarity and the exceptional skill involved in its creation.

The necklace is a symbol of the zenith of luxury and exclusivity, representing a singular achievement in the world of fine jewelry and remaining a coveted treasure among collectors and connoisseurs alike.

12. The “Incomparable” Diamond Necklace

The Most Expensive Necklace in the World The “Incomparable” Diamond Necklace

The Necklace of “Incomparable” Diamond is one of the main pieces of art of haute joaillerie, which is admired for its loveliness and history. This is a magnificent piece of jewelry characterized by the centerpiece, which is stupendously rare and perfect. It is set with a 48-carat diamond known as the Incomparable Diamond and has a surrounding row of other smaller marquise-cut diamonds.

The necklace is cultured elegant and trendy with an aesthetic architectural design that provides an orderly arrangement of the centerpiece that is the diamond and ensures that the entire structure is in harmony to produce a coherent jewel that is the necklace in question. This particular necklace was crafted in the early part of the twentieth century, although the diamond used in the construction of the necklace was discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The necklace is a model of the highest class of diamond work and has an exciting and interesting history related to rare stones’ adventurous and prestigious traditions. They know from experience that its value is more than just a financial one, for it is both an example of the earth’s beauty in its natural state as well as the result of centuries of human adaptation and refinement.

Conclusion

In the world of luxury, these incredible necklaces represent the height of elegance and rarity. Each piece, from the dazzling Heritage in Bloom to the stunning Blue Moon Necklace, showcases amazing craftsmanship and precious gemstones. These necklaces are more than just beautiful accessories—they symbolize the ultimate in luxury and timeless style.







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Bubble Pop’ Is a New Bust-a-Move-Like Coming to iOS and Android Through Tic Toc Games, Nickelodeon, and Netflix – TouchArcade

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Bubble Pop’ Is a New Bust-a-Move-Like Coming to iOS and Android Through Tic Toc Games, Nickelodeon, and Netflix – TouchArcade


Netflix recently announced more games coming to its service in the coming months, but an unannounced (as far as I’m aware) casual Bust-a-Move-like game in the form of SpongeBob: Bubble Pop has gone up for pre-order on the App Store and pre-registration on Android. SpongeBob: Bubble Pop (Free) from Tic Toc Games and Nickelodeon is due on September 17th going by the App Store listing, and it aims to offer players hundreds of puzzles where you match colors and free sea snails to save Bikini Bottom. It will include boosters, various unlocks, SpongeBob cosmetics, a skill crane to earn even more costumes, and more. Check out some screenshots from it below:

If you’d like to play SpongeBob: Bubble Pop at launch, you can pre-order it on the App Store for iOS here and on Google Play for Android here. If we get a gameplay trailer, Ill post about it, but I think everyone knows what to expect from a game like this. I’m curious if we see more games announced at Netflix Geeked week in the near future. What do you think of SpongeBob: Bubble Pop and Netflix bringing more casual games like this to its service?



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‘Genshin Impact’ Version 5.0 Update Pre-Installation Now Live, New Trailer Released – TouchArcade

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‘Genshin Impact’ Version 5.0 Update Pre-Installation Now Live, New Trailer Released – TouchArcade


HoYoverse has begun pre-installation for the major Genshin Impact (Free) version 5.0 “Flowers Resplendent on the Sun-Scorched Sojourn” update for on supported platforms. If you’ve not followed the game recently, Genshin Impact 5.0 brings in the sixth nation: Natlan, new characters like Mualani, reruns for Raiden Shogun, and much more. The update will launch beginning August 28th for mobile, PC, PS5, and PS4 with the game launching on Xbox Series X this November. The first Genshin Impact 5.0 banner features: Mualani, Kachina and Kaedehara Kazuha while banner 2 has Kinich and Raiden Shogun. This update is also supposed to bring in updated visuals. Read about that here. Watch the new Genshin Impact trailer for Kachina below:

You can pre-install it by tapping the pre-install resource package button. The download size is 2.67GB on iOS and about 16GB on PC. If you’d like to play Genshin Impact and don’t own it yet, you can download it for free on the App Store for iOS here and on Google Play for Android here. The PC version is available on the official website here and the Epic Games Store. If you play on iOS, with iOS 14.5 or iPadOS 14.5 and later, you can use PS5 and Xbox Series X|S controllers to play Genshin Impact. We featured Genshin Impact as our Game of the Week when it released and awarded it our 2020 Game of the Year. I also featured it as one of the best iOS games to play with a controller. What do you think of Genshin Impact 5.0 so far?



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OSFest 2024 Opens for Builders and Participants – Hypergrid Business

OSFest 2024 Opens for Builders and Participants – Hypergrid Business


OSFest 2024 Opens for Builders and Participants – Hypergrid Business
OSFest 2024. (Image courtesy Lisa Laxton.)

The virtual doors of OSFest 2024 have swung open, welcoming creators, builders, merchants, performers, and sponsors to begin crafting their digital spaces. This annual event, hosted on the OpenSim Fest grid, is set to run from October 4 through October 20, 2024, offering a diverse platform for virtual exhibitions, performances, and commerce.

Lisa Laxton

“The grid is open for participants to build or bring in their creations via the hypergrid,” said Lisa Laxton, OSFest director and founder of the Infinite Metaverse Alliance and Laxton Consulting.

Based on the feedback from previous events, OSFest now has a new mainland layout, she told Hypergrid Business. There are also small sponsor parcels available at US$3 each for other grids or region owners looking to increase their visibility in the hypergrid community and promote their grids.

There is also a limited number of free parcels available for exhibitors and merchants, paid for by sponsors.

OSFest is also looking for volunteers to join the OSFest team and help get everything ready for the event, and to help out during the festival itself.

For more information, check out the event’s home page, or the FAQ page.

The festival will feature 110 hours of performer events and 84 hours dedicated to exhibits, stores, and interactive activities. In a nod to the broader virtual community, OSFest has also allocated eight hours for satellite events on other grids, encouraging cross-platform participation.

OSFest 2024. (Image courtesy Lisa Laxton.)

Most of the 110 hours of performer slots are already booked, Laxton said, and merchant sales event times have been scheduled. There are non-music events and activities on the schedule as well, she added.

“Some participants have started or will soon bring in their builds, and the content infrastructure is ongoing with expected updates on the website, calendar, and Discord server,” she said. “This is the fun and exciting time leading up to opening day.”

This year’s festival breaks new ground by eschewing a unifying theme, a decision made through community vote. This approach promises an eclectic mix of exhibits, stores, and performances, reflecting the diverse interests of the virtual world community. Adding to the fresh feel, the grid layout has been completely redesigned, offering new experiences for both returning participants and first-time visitors.

Participants can access the grid via hypergrid using the address: grid.opensimfest.com:8022:OSF_HGWelcome.

Organizers are encouraging early setup, with a target completion date set for late September.

OSFest 2024 is Gloebit-enabled, allowing for virtual transactions within the grid.

Various sponsorship levels are available for those wishing to support the event financially.

Hypergrid Business editor and publisher Maria Korolov is a science fiction novelist. During the day, Maria Korolov is an award-winning freelance technology journalist who covers artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and enterprise virtual reality. See her Amazon author page here and follow her on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, and check out her latest videos on the Maria Korolov YouTube channel. Email her at maria@hypergridbusiness.com. Her first virtual world novella, Krim Times, made the Amazon best-seller list in its category. Her second novella, The Lost King of Krim, is out now. She is also the publisher of MetaStellar, a new online magazine of speculative fiction.
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Top 17 Luxury Unisex Perfumes You Need To Try

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Top 17 Luxury Unisex Perfumes You Need To Try


High-end perfumes have long been associated with gender-specific scents, but a new trend is emerging in the fragrance industry. Luxury unisex perfumes are gaining popularity among discerning consumers who seek sophisticated aromas that aren’t easily pigeonholed.

These innovative fragrances blend complex notes to create scents that appeal to all, regardless of gender identity. From niche boutique brands to established perfume houses, luxury unisex fragrances allow individuals to express themselves through scent without conforming to conventional expectations.

This article explores the world of luxury unisex scents, examining their rise in popularity and the artistry behind their creation.

Defining Characteristics of the Top Luxury Unisex Perfumes

Top luxury unisex perfumes mix smells that appeal to everyone. They play with woods, musks, and fresh notes like bergamot and orange blossom. This blend creates a unique aroma that doesn’t lean too masculine or feminine.

Imagine the warmth of sandalwood combined with the freshness of bergamot. That’s what makes these fragrances stand out.

Signature scents such as Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 draw people in with their special mix of jasmine, saffron, and cedarwood. It’s all about finding a scent that feels personal yet can be worn by anyone.

These perfumes use ingredients like oud, vetiver, and tonka bean to make an unforgettable smell.

Luxury unisex perfumes bridge the gap between genders with their universal appeal.

Olfactive families and common notes

Luxury unisex perfumes blend various olfactive families to create scents that both men and women love. Woody, musky, floral, and citrus notes are common in these fragrances. For example, Le Labo Santal 33 offers a woody scent with cardamom and sandalwood.

Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria shines with its bright citrus notes. These perfumes might also have patchouli or black pepper for depth.

Each unisex fragrance mixes top, middle, and base notes to last all day. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 uses amber and floral scents as base notes to add warmth. Byredo Gypsy Water combines fresh lemon with pine needles in its top notes for an immediate allure.

This careful layering makes each gender-neutral perfume unique.

Signature scents and their allure

Signature scents make people feel unique. They blend distinctive notes like pink pepper and black tea to create a personal smell that stands out. This is why brands like Jo Malone London and Chanel Sycomore put so much work into their fragrances. They know that a special scent can tell your story without words.

People love these perfumes because they offer more than just a nice smell. They bring back memories or give feelings of confidence and comfort. Every bottle, from Maison Margiela to Calvin Klein CK One, is crafted to strike the perfect balance between aromatic richness and gender-neutral appeal.

Choosing a signature scent becomes an intimate journey of finding the fragrance that matches your personality perfectly.

Highlighting Seventeen Iconic Unisex Perfumes

These iconic unisex perfumes offer diverse olfactive experiences suitable for various individuals’ preferences.

1. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 has emerged as an outstanding creation in the fragrance industry. Introduced in 2015, this gender-neutral scent showcases middle notes of jasmine and saffron, accompanied by cedarwood to add a masculine touch.

Its distinctive blend has garnered significant admiration from perfume aficionados in search of gender-inclusive scents. The fragrance is particularly coveted for its minimalist design.

Amid the increasing popularity of unisex perfumes shaping the market, Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 maintains a prominent position.

Baccarat Rouge 540 Maison Francis Kurkdjian - best luxury unisex perfumes
Baccarat Rouge 540 Maison Francis Kurkdjian

2. Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria

Acqua di Parma Bergamotto di Calabria is a unisex fragrance known for its fresh, citrusy scent. It’s part of the Blu Mediterraneo collection by Acqua di Parma, which draws inspiration from the Italian Mediterranean.

This fragrance features top notes of bergamot, citron, and lemon with a heart of ginger and cedar wood. The combination evokes the essence of the Calabrian summer and creates a lively and uplifting aroma perfect for both men and women seeking an invigorating perfume experience.

3. Bentley Magnetic Amber Eau de Parfum

Bentley Magnetic Amber Eau de Parfum is a unisex fragrance by Bentley, a renowned British luxury car brand. Launched in 2023, this perfume was created by Karine Dubreuil-Sereni.

Falling into the woody spicy olfactive family, this elegant fragrance features top notes of bergamot and rosemary, while base notes include white amber, vanilla, tonka bean and cedarwood. The heart features olibanum oil and cardamom oil.

With its allure emanating from the fusion of woody and herbal scents, it has gained popularity as a sophisticated and versatile fragrance suitable for both men and women. The faceted 400g flacon is engraved with the iconic winged B logo.

4. Chanel Sycomore

Chanel Sycomore is a woody fragrance that belongs to the olfactive family of warm and floral musk scents. It features notes of sandalwood, vetiver, and pink pepper which contribute to its alluring and distinctive aroma.

As one of the iconic luxury unisex perfumes, Chanel Sycomore is appealing to those interested in genderless fragrances.

Introduced in 2008, Chanel Sycomore meets the ever-evolving demand for customized and personalized fragrances in an era where consumers are looking for more than just a pleasant aroma.

As part of this trend in the luxury unisex perfume market, Chanel Sycomore stands out for its ability to deliver a sophisticated yet approachable scent experience that captures the essence of modern luxury.

5. Le Labo Santal 33

Le Labo Santal 33 exudes sophistication and allure. This unisex perfume has gained a cult following for its unique blend of sandalwood, cardamom, and leather notes.

Launched in 2011, it has risen to prominence as one of the best unisex fragrances appreciated by both men and women alike.

The unique aroma lies in its unparalleled combination of ingredients, making it a sought-after choice that resonates with modern fragrance preferences.

Upscale unisex fragrances - Le Labo 33Upscale unisex fragrances - Le Labo 33
Upscale unisex fragrances – Le Labo 33

6. Byredo Gypsy Water

Byredo Gypsy Water presents itself as a unisex fragrance celebrated for its fusion of citrus and woody notes. Infused with touches of juniper berries, lemon, and incense, it presents a vibrant and grounded aroma that appeals to people of all genders.

Introduced in 2008, it has garnered favor as a versatile and natural scent suitable for a range of settings. The minimalist bottle features the brand’s signature black domed top.

This fragrance epitomizes the growing movement toward all-encompassing scents that accommodate varied preferences, positioning it as one of the remarkable luxury unisex perfumes in today’s industry.

7. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette

One of our personal favorites, Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 Eau de Toilette is known for containing a single note fragrance of Iso E Super. It was created by perfumer Geza Schoen in 2006, and quickly gained popularity due to its unique minimalist approach.

This unisex fragrance offers a subtle, velvety, woody scent with undertones of cedarwood and warm musk. Its intriguing simplicity has garnered a dedicated following among both men and women seeking an understated yet alluring aroma.

The discreet character of this perfume allows it to blend seamlessly with the wearer’s natural pheromones, resulting in an individualized scent experience.

Escentric Molecules gift setEscentric Molecules gift set
Escentric Molecules fragrance

8. Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Eau de Parfum Intense

Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Eau de Parfum Intense is a captivating unisex fragrance known for its warm and luxurious scent. It combines the rich, resinous myrrh with sweet, almond-like tonka bean.

This distinctive combination appeals to both men and women looking for a sophisticated and opulent scent that lingers throughout the day.

Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Eau de Parfum Intense has received positive reviews from fragrance enthusiasts and critics alike, solidifying its status as one of the top luxury unisex perfumes.

With its timeless appeal and exceptional versatility, this fragrance continues to be a sought-after option for those seeking an exquisite olfactory experience.

9. BDK Gris Charnel

BDK Gris Charnel offers an enticing blend with notes such as vetiver and caraway, created for those in search of a unique scent. Launched in 2019, this oriental spicy fragrance unlocks a truly personalized olfactive experience.

The top notes of black tea, cardamom and fig, combine artfully with middle notes of vetiver and iris, and base notes of tonka bean and sandalwood.

With its distinctive mix of elements and meticulously developed production process, BDK Gris Charnel stands out as a leader among iconic unisex perfumes, catering to individuals who value both intricacy and sophistication in their scents.

BDK Gris CharnelBDK Gris Charnel
BDK Gris Charnel

10. Commodity Gold

Commodity Gold is a renowned unisex fragrance known for its warm and inviting scent. It incorporates bergamot, juniper berries, and camphor to create a fresh and vibrant top note.

The heart of this oriental fragrance reveals amber, vetiver and benzoin for an aromatic twist. Finally, it settles into a rich base of tonka bean, sandalwood, vanilla and musk- providing a luxurious depth that appeals to both men and women.

This versatile perfume has garnered popularity due to its unique combination of ingredients that give it an enduring appeal in the ever-changing market of luxury fragrances. Gold by Commodity offers an olfactory experience that is ideal for layering over other scents.

11. Atelier Cologne Clémentine California

Atelier Cologne Clémentine California is a unisex perfume known for its fresh and citrusy scent. It features notes of clementine, juniper berries, and vetiver, creating a vibrant and invigorating aroma.

Launched in 2016, this fragrance has gained popularity for its long-lasting formula that combines the essence of sunny California with the elegance of French perfumery. The blend of citrus and woody notes makes it a versatile choice for both men and women looking for a refreshing yet sophisticated scent.

The perfume comes in a distinctive clear glass bottle with an elegant two-tone cap, embodying the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and luxury. Atelier Cologne has positioned Clémentine California as part of their Absolue Collection line, which emphasizes modernity and refinement.

Luxury unisex perfumes - Atelier Cologne ParisLuxury unisex perfumes - Atelier Cologne Paris
Clementine California by Atelier Cologne Paris

12. MALIN+GOETZ Dark Rum

MALIN+GOETZ Dark Rum is a unisex fragrance that’s adored for its distinct fusion of warm and spicy notes. The scent harmonizes top notes of bergamot and plum with middle notes of leather and rum and boasts base notes of amber, patchouli, and milk for a luxurious and extravagant olfactory experience.

Since its launch in 2010, this aromatic fruity fragrance has garnered praise for its long-lasting presence on the skin, making it a lasting choice for those in pursuit of a refined yet adaptable fragrance.

A remarkable feature of MALIN+GOETZ Dark Rum is its appeal to people of all genders—it’s crafted to be savored by everyone, irrespective of gender.

13. Diptyque Philosykos

Diptyque Philosykos, a unisex scent in the woody aromatic fragrance category, encapsulates the spirit of a Greek fig grove during the summer. With hints of fig tree leaves, wood, and white cedar, it radiates a fresh and natural aroma.

Olivia Giacobetti created the scent, which debuted in 1996. The distinct combination has established Diptyque Philosykos as a favored option for both genders.

Its lasting allure is its capacity to conjure visions of vibrant Mediterranean scenery with each spray. This classic fragrance remains a top selection for individuals in search of an authentic and adaptable unisex aroma.

Diptyque luxury unisex perfumeDiptyque luxury unisex perfume
Diptyque Philosykos

14. Tom Ford Noir Extreme

Introduced in 2015, Tom Ford Noir Extreme is celebrated for its rich and spicy aroma, featuring notable hints of amber, vanilla, and kulfi.

This oriental woody scent has played a pivotal role in the upscale unisex fragrance market since its introduction. Blending notes of mandarin orange, kulfi, jasmine, sandalwood and rose absolute, the result is a resounding success.

15. Maison Margiela REPLICA By The Fireplace

Maison Margiela REPLICA By The Fireplace is a unisex perfume with woody and spicy notes. It captures the ambiance of frosty mornings, with a blend of strong tobacco, vanilla, and leather scents.

Launched in 2015, this fragrance was created to embody the cosy atmosphere of a warm fireplace in Wintertime. The warm and rich aroma makes it ideal for both men and women who appreciate sophisticated, alluring scents.

REPLICA By The Fireplace offers a unique blend featuring pink pepper, orange flower petal, clove, juniper oil, chestnut, Peruvian balm, guaiac wood oil and Cashmeran, setting it apart from typical perfumes.

This distinct combination appeals to individuals seeking an unconventional yet elegant fragrance that stands out in today’s constantly changing perfume market.

Maison Margiela unisex fragranceMaison Margiela unisex fragrance
Maison Margiela fragrance

16. House of Bō Espiritu

House of Bō Espiritu is a rising star in the world of gender-neutral fragrances. Their selection features genderless perfumes that cater to a wide range of preferences.

Embodying the essence of luxury, House of Bō Espiritu offers an exclusive line that aims to create a mindful experience rather than just a fragrance.

The American fragrance brand places emphasis on tailored scent creation, supporting its commitment to providing unique olfactory experiences for individuals seeking luxurious yet gender-neutral fragrances.

17. Calvin Klein CK One

Calvin Klein CK One has established itself as a unisex fragrance icon since its launch in 1994. This fresh and clean scent was groundbreaking in reshaping gender norms in the perfume industry.

The brand’s innovative marketing broadened the fragrance audience beyond traditional gender boundaries.

This aromatic blend features notes of bergamot, cardamom, pineapple, papaya, jasmine, violet, rose, nutmeg, musk, and amber creating an invigorating yet subtle allure that appeals to both men and women alike.

It perfectly embodies simplicity and modernity, making it a timeless addition to anyone’s fragrance collection. The understated yet captivating nature of CK One illustrates how luxury unisex perfumes can be inclusive and diverse without compromising elegance or quality.

CK One - the original unisex fragranceCK One - the original unisex fragrance
CK One gift set

Trends in the Luxury Unisex Perfume Market

The luxury unisex perfume market is experiencing a significant increase in gender-neutral marketing. Brands are increasingly focused on creating scents that appeal to everyone, challenging traditional notions of fragrance categorization.

This change in approach has led to a more inclusive and diverse range of perfumes, catering to a wider audience. Moreover, there have been notable innovations in scent creation techniques within the luxury unisex perfume market.

Perfumers are exploring unique combinations of notes and ingredients to develop intricate yet versatile fragrances that defy conventional boundaries and appeal to a broad range of consumers.

In general, the luxury unisex perfume market is undergoing a transformation characterized by a focus on creative olfactive expression. This trend reflects a growing demand for perfumes suitable for all individuals.

The rise of gender-neutral marketing

Luxury unisex perfumes are gaining traction due to the rise of gender-neutral marketing. Brands are defying traditional gender stereotypes in the fragrance industry by creating scents that appeal to all.

This shift has paved the way for a more inclusive approach, breaking away from conventional male or female-oriented fragrances and embracing diversity in scent preferences. The market is witnessing an increase in genderless packaging and advertising campaigns, promoting perfumes as a personal expression rather than being restricted to specific genders.

The shift towards gender-neutral marketing reflects a broader cultural move towards inclusivity and diversity. Major brands are acknowledging the importance of appealing to a wider audience by offering scents that cater to individual tastes rather than predetermined gender norms.

As a result, consumers have more choices when selecting luxury fragrances, leading to greater freedom of self-expression through scent without limitations based on traditional gender labels.

Innovations in scent creation

Innovations in scent creation have transformed the perfume industry. Progress in technology and chemistry has enabled perfumers to explore new ingredients and extraction methods, resulting in distinctive and long-lasting fragrances.

For example, the use of headspace technology allows perfumers to capture the scent molecules that surround an object or environment, enabling them to replicate natural scents such as fresh flowers or exotic fruits with exceptional accuracy.

Furthermore, sustainable practices are increasingly prominent in fragrance production, with brands utilizing eco-friendly extraction processes and ethical sourcing of raw materials to reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality.

Customization has also gained popularity in scent creation. Perfume houses now offer personalized fragrance experiences where customers can create their own tailored scents to match their individual preferences.

This trend not only boosts consumer engagement but also indicates a shift towards more inclusive and diverse olfactive expressions within the market.

Conclusion: The Future of Luxury Unisex Perfumes

The world of luxury unisex perfumes is constantly changing. Gender-neutral marketing is on the rise, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences. Innovations in scent creation continue to shape the realm of luxury fragrances.

These top perfumes showcase the industry’s dedication to personalized scents that appeal to all. As we explore an ever-evolving market, it’s evident that luxury unisex perfumes are here to stay.

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Rush Royale Bosses Guide | How to Counter Boss in Rush Royale

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Rush Royale Bosses Guide | How to Counter Boss in Rush Royale


Hi guys, we are back with another new Rush Royale Guide, and Today we will tell you Rush Royale Bosses Guide & How to Counter All Bosses in Rush Royale. I have seen so many new players asking these questions that How to Counter Tribunal In rush royale, How to beat Badlam In rush royale.

If you don’t know how to play against particular bosses then this guide is for you, this Rush Royale Bosses Guide will help you to counter all boss in rush royale so without wasting any time let’s get into it.

Tamer,
Gorgon,
Bedlam,
Warlock,
Tribunal.

Currently there are 5 bosses in rush royale and every bosses has it’s unique ability, for me Tamer and Gorgon are very easy to counter in game but when you are playing against Warlock, Bedlam, and tribunal you should use some strategy which I am going to to tell in this post.

How to counter All Bosses in Rush Royale:

1.) Tamer:

Tamer is one of the easiest boss in the game, The ability of tamer is very simple he summons a portal which spawns minions these minions do spawn behind tamer, you can easily kill him with your level 1 dps cards. If tamer is your first boss that appears during pvp it’s very easy to counter but if tamer is like the 4th or 5th boss then It’ sis going to be very though to counter tamer.

2.) Gorgon

Gorgon is also a very easy to kill, her main ability is she truned you units into rocks, that mean when the units are turned to stone they can’t do any damagemand those units can’t attack gorgon so keep in mind that scince she truned your two units into rocks make sure you have filled your board with as much as possible having more units on the board.

I will recommend you to fill your board with High DPS units, Like Enigineer, Sharpshooter etc etc..

 

3.) Tribunal:

Rush Royale Tribunal Counter Tips

Tribunal is one of the most hated boss in rush royale and I am sure you are looking for How tribunal works ? how to counter trinbul without loosing your units on board, so now let’s talk about how to counter tribunal & tribunal ability.

Tribunal ability is very diffrent from other bosses, He downgrades half your units by 1 level so more units on the board means more units downgraded or lost.

Basically Tribunal lowers 50% of your cards by 1 tier

Tribunal doesn’t destroy units, it lowers their merge rank, and if their merge rank is 1, they die
if their merge rank is 2, tribunal will downgrade them to rank 1

If you have 11 cards on boards so it will attack on 6  cards instead of 5 cards so make sure you have an even number when he uses his ability also there is one more trick to beat trinbul in rush royale.

When you are playing against tribunal, you can save your mana and Once Tribunal uses his ability you can spam units with the mana you saved up to kill him easily this trick is used by many players and It works well.

4.) Warlock:

How to Counter warlock in Rush Royale

This boss is easy to kill in compare to tribunal, If I talk about warlock ability He throws a 1 fireball and that fireball targets and destroy your 1 random unit.

5.) Bedlam:

Just like tribunal, Bedlam is also one of the most hated boss in rush royale, and many people don’t know how to counter bedlam and what kind of deck and cards works well against him.

First of all let’s talk about his ability is He changes your every cards/units on your board into an alternative random cards/units, It’s very difficult to defeat bedlam in rush royale but not impossibe even if you are lucky enough you can kill Bedlam before he uses his ability.

yes it is possible to kill bedlam before he uses his ability, you just need Bombardier and few high DPS cards in your deck. why we need bombarider ?? because Bombardier has ability to stun a boss for few seconds, and when Bombardier will stun the bedlam, you high DPS cards can kill him before he uses his ability.

6.) Puppeteer:

You’ll be able to meet Puppeteer in the PvP mode and on the 60th wave in Co-Op mode. Unlike the other bosses, Puppeteer features not one but two nasty abilities that he will use in turns to affect your units.

First ability: Reduces the mana power-up level of all units by 1.
Second ability: shifts your field in one direction by one cell. Units on the edge in that direction are moved to the other side.

In conclusion. I will just say if you are a new player or begginer in rush royal, just wait because you will learn everything by time & experience. The more you will play, the more you will learn so that’s it for

I hope you all liked reading this Rush Royale Bosses Guide | How to Counter All Boss in Rush Royale post.



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The Wizard’s Cat’ – TouchArcade

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The Wizard’s Cat’ – TouchArcade


I’m a simple man. Give me an old-school first-person dungeon crawler and I’m a pretty happy guy. Make one centered around rescuing a cat and, oh boy, now you’re really speaking my language. Throw in a really unique touchscreen control scheme that I’ve never seen in a game of this type before and we’ve got a winner winner chicken-that-you-found-in-a-barrel dinner. That accurately describes Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat from developer ZombiSoft, who appears to be just a single person named Anders Gustavsson. There are some rough edges here, and some negative things to note, but by and large I’m just having a super good time with Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat and I’m excited to see where it takes me.

So as the story goes, you’re an apprentice wizard who is tasked with finding the runaway cat of your mentor wizard, and you graduating to become a full-blown wizard hinges on you completing this mission. Just when you think you’ve cornered the adorable little feline you find yourself transported to a dungeon labyrinth filled with traps and enemies. You also spot the kitty roaming around and so your mission now becomes more difficult as you try to make your way through this dungeon alive as well as rescue your boss’s pesky little cat.

Now, Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat isn’t a highly complex game by any means. There’s some light RPG elements in the form of leveling up and finding cool new weapons and gear, but there’s no party system or any extensive character progression. It reminds me a lot of Questlord in that it’s a pretty simple affair mechanically but the story, the visuals, and the personality of the game compel you to keep moving forward. Also, just because this game is bright and colorful and has a fairly straightforward design don’t think it’s some pushover. The game actually gets rather difficult rather quickly, but thankfully you can save anytime and anywhere, which is something you should practice doing often.

The really neat feature here is the control scheme. You can choose between virtual arrows or swipe gestures for directional movement, which is pretty par for the course. But if you lay a second thumb down on the screen you can free look in any direction. It takes a little getting used to but the swipe gesture movement coupled with the free look gesture combines to make for a very satisfying touchscreen control scheme. It almost feels like you’re playing a first-person shooter at times, once you get comfortable and start zipping around to and fro, but you’re actually still playing a game with grid-based movement.

My small nitpicks are that I really wish this game had an option to play in portrait, and the swipe detection for movement is a bit finicky. It recognizes short, fast swipes as opposed to longer ones, and before I figured that out I was having a really frustrating time thinking the game wasn’t detecting my inputs. Probably something that can be smoothed out in an update. Overall though, despite being a bit basic overall and having some rough edges, Labyrinth: The Wizard’s Cat is a very enjoyable retro dungeon crawler, which is something we don’t get too many of nowadays. If that’s not worth a couple of bucks then I’m not sure what is.



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Gamescom 2024 Steam Deck News, Reviews Including Bakeru and SCHiM, New Verified Games, Discounts, and More – TouchArcade

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Gamescom 2024 Steam Deck News, Reviews Including Bakeru and SCHiM, New Verified Games, Discounts, and More – TouchArcade


Welcome to this week’s edition of the Steam Deck Weekly. I delayed publishing this because Gamescom 2024 is on right now with news from Geoff Keighley’s Opening Night Live, game announcements, show floor information, and more. If you missed my Black Myth: Wukong Steam Deck review, read it here. Today’s article has Steam Deck impressions for Bakeru and Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse, reviews of a few notable indies, Shaun’s take on the Warhammer 40K: Boltgun DLC, bundles, new Steam Deck Verified games, and more. Let’s get into the reviews and impressions first.

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

Bakeru Steam Deck Review

When Bakeru was released in Japan, a friend of mine imported it and praised it quite a bit. I tried the demo and was turned off by the technical issues. It was charming, but not enough to put up with no localization and performance issues on Switch. When it leaked on the eShop, I was hoping we’d see performance improvements or a port to PC. We ended up getting both more or less. Bakeru’s Switch release in the West is improved over the Japanese launch version, and it is also now on PC with an excellent port.

Bakeru is an action platformer from Good-Feel who are most known for the Yoshi games and also more-recently Princess Peach Showtime from Nintendo. The studio has done some games outside Nintendo brands, and the newest in this line of non Nintendo games from Good-Feel is Bakeru. Shaun will be doing a full review for this one, but so far Bakeru feels and plays great on Steam Deck.

On Steam Deck and PC, Bakeru lets you adjust display mode (windowed and borderless only), resolution (with full 16:10 support), toggle v-sync, adjust frame rate cap (Note that v-sync off means the game runs at 60fps. Turn it on if you would like to play at your monitor’s refresh rate or at 90fps on Steam Deck OLED), anti-aliasing (off, FXAA, SMAA), adjust filtering quality (trilinear, 2x, 4x, 8x, and 16x), and draw distance (low, medium, high).

I played Bakeru on both my Steam Decks. My LCD is running the newest SteamOS beta. On that, I had zero issues with the game and it ran at a locked 60fps at maximum settings. On Steam Deck OLED running the public build of the OS, I only had some issues at 90fps. This seemingly wasn’t related to the settings, but something in the game because I had some shader-related or traversal stuttering in parts, but they only happened initially. I imagine Bakeru will be Steam Deck Verified soon as it runs perfectly if you play at 60fps and near-perfectly at 90fps.

The one issue I ran into pre-release that Spike Chunsoft and the developers already fixed is button prompts being incorrectly displayed. This had the game showing Switch positions instead of Xbox ones when using my 8BitDo Xbox controller or the Steam Deck itself. I’m glad this was resolved pre-release as the game has no port issues, and it is dramatically better than the Switch version. When using a DualSense, it correctly showed PlayStation prompts with the proper labels and positions as well.

Bakeru is a good platformer that I recommend playing on PC over Switch right now. The Switch version, despite performance improvements over the Japanese demo, still has too much variance in its performance to be an easy recommendation. The HD Rumble there is nice, but everything else holds it back. On PC, you miss out on the HD Rumble, but Bakeru runs a lot better across the board, and I’ve been enjoying digging into it over the last week. Stay tuned for Shaun’s full review of the Switch version in the near future.

Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Steam Deck Review

There have been many game franchises that I completely missed out on over the years. The Sam & Max series of games is one of those. When I was offered a code to play Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse, I figured now was the time to finally play these games with the new remasters. If you’re just here for the game itself, I urge you to read Shaun’s Switch review here. I’m going to focus on how it plays on Steam Deck.

Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is the final game in the episodic Sam & Max main trilogy. This new remaster is amazing in basically every way. This includes how it controls, looks, sounds, and feels. It even has many accessibility options to make things go smoothly if you’re new to this kind of adventure game. You can toggle different hint levels and disable flashing in the accessibility settings.

On the graphics and display side, you can play Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse at higher resolutions when docked on Steam Deck, but performance doesn’t hold close to 60fps if you play at 4K. I recommend sticking to it in handheld mode for a 60 or higher experience. You can adjust the graphics quality, texture quality, anti-aliasing, toggle v-sync, and adjust display mode and resolution in the graphics settings.

With Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse, I’m glad I finally got around to playing these games. Not only are they all absolutely worth your time and money, but they play superbly on Steam Deck. I’d love for the remasters to hit iPad, but until then the Steam Deck is my favorite way to play Skunkape Games’ remasters.

SCHiM Steam Deck Review

Given the sheer amount of releases lately, I didn’t get around to playing SCHiM much at launch. I’m glad I finally rectified that because it is equal parts charming and gorgeous, and it has been the perfect game to relax with as a break from the longer upcoming games I’m playing for review right now. Developers Ewoud van der Werf and Nils Slijkerman have released a brilliant take on a 3D platformer using light, shadow, and more for puzzles, and it is all elevated by excellent audio.

Aside from the striking aesthetic, what really carries SCHiM through its four or so hours long runtime is the animation work and sound design. As you work towards solving the various puzzles in the game, every interaction has a lovely little animation, and it all feels beyond polished when played at a rock solid 90fps on Steam Deck OLED. The blend of the shadows and lights for puzzles also are enhanced by the screen in handheld mode.

So SCHiM runs perfectly out of the box on Steam Deck at 90fps, but how about docked? When played at 720p docked, it nearly does a locked 144fps. Playing at 1080p results in well over 100fps at all times. SCHiM supports 16:10 as well which is great to see on Steam Deck. I have no complaints with it aside from the fact that it might seem short for its price to some, and that there really is no evolution of the mechanics over the course of the game. While this isn’t a dealbreaker, it does hold SCHiM down from perfection.

SCHiM is a lovely abstract take on games like Frogger for the modern era. Come into this expecting a work of art with excellent audio design more than a complex puzzle game. I enjoyed just about every level despite the mechanics not really evolving. I enjoyed it enough on Steam Deck to order a physical copy of the Switch version from Japan already. This is definitely worth your time if you enjoy delightful, gorgeous, and relaxing puzzle games.

SCHiM Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Gestalt: Steam and Cinder Steam Deck Review

Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is another game I wish I got around to playing sooner like SCHiM above. It has been on the review backlog for a bit now, but having played it, this action platformer is fantastic. Not only does it nail the aesthetic with its blend of 16 and 32-bit visuals, but the sound design, story, and gameplay are sublime.

What initially drew me to Gestalt: Steam and Cinder, is the steampunk visual style in pixel art. I adore the character designs, but wasn’t sure another action platformer would be able to hit hard enough for me in recent years. Having played it, the story is very good, but without getting into spoilers, I feel like there’s more to this tale. Hopefully we see some story DLC in the future.

On the gameplay side, Gestalt: Steam and Cinder felt a bit easier than I expected outside of two bosses I had trouble with. Nothing major though, and the responsive controls help across the board.

Gestalt: Steam and Cinder ships Steam Deck Verified, and it is perfect on Valve’s handheld. The only thing I’d like to see, if feasible, is support for 90fps. Right now, the game is capped at 60fps and 16:9. I tested this on both my Steam Decks docked and in handheld mode.

Given how crowded the genre is, I know most people roll their eyes when they see another action platformer, but Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is one you cannot afford to miss. It is one of the best in the genre with its excellent gameplay, narrative, music, and slick visuals. Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is also perfect on Steam Deck from start to finish.

Gestalt: Steam and Cinder Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun – Forges of Corruption Expansion Steam Deck Review

The original Boltgun was a refreshing surprise for me when it was released last year. While I’m not as into first-person shooters as deeply as some, I can certainly enjoy a good boomer shooter. Give me fast, furious action with some interest levels to explore, a satisfying selection of weapons, and challenging enemy encounters and I’m there. Boltgun had all of that, all dressed up in a Warhammer theme that if nothing else helps the world feel like it extends outside of the borders of the game.  A thoroughly enjoying game to play through, and one that left me properly sated… or did it?

While I thought I had had my fill of Boltgun, I was actually quite happy when Forges of Corruption was released. I guess I was still hungry. This expansion gives you five more levels of carnage to engage in, and they run on the larger side. You get two new guns to play with, one being an enhanced flamethrower and the other a rocket launcher. Sure, can’t argue with that. You also get some new enemies to try those toys out on, and you’ll need every edge you can get to deal with them.

When compared to the original game’s levels, Forges of Corruption‘s stages favor more wide open spaces. This puts your mobility skills to the test, as you’ll have to keep on moving to avoid getting surrounded or cornered. If you haven’t mastered the dash already from playing the main campaign, you’ll need to get up to speed fast here. It’s an interesting change-up from the more compact design that the base game relied on so much. The enhanced flamethrower’s spread can really help you out here, and rockets always prefer open spaces.

Difficulty-wise, these levels are mostly going to be a relative breeze for those who played through the first game. The last one is a real beast though, and you’re going to have to use everything you’ve learned to overcome it. Which is to say that while you can play this expansion without finishing the main game, you really should leave it for after. All-up, it takes a few hours to get through it all.

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun – Forges of Corruption keep the party rolling with a set of new stages that show off a slightly different design intent than those of the original. The new weapons and enemies are appreciated, and the level design makes the most of both. I do wish there was something more interesting going on visually here, and the difficulty curve isn’t as smooth as it was in the base game. Still, those looking for more Boltgun challenges to tackle will find them here.-Shaun Musgrave

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun – Forges of Corruption Expansion Steam Deck review score: 4/5

News and Trailers

Let’s begin the massive (and fast-paced) news section of this week with a brand-new trailer for my most anticipated game of 2025: Monster Hunter Wilds. The trailer has the game looking better than before, and I’m getting more excited reading all the details from hands-on gameplay sessions people have at Gamescom. Watch the third Monster Hunter Wilds trailer below:

The next bit of news I’m excited for is Final Fantasy XVI, the best singleplayer Final Fantasy game since XII, is coming to Steam in a few weeks with pre-orders and a demo now live. It is sadly pretty rough on Steam Deck, but I hope things improve.

Terry Bogard launches on September 24th in Street Fighter 6 as the second DLC for the Year 2 Pass. His gameplay trailer looks incredible.

While not directly Steam-related, Capcom is also bringing Resident Evil 2 to GOG on August 27th. I couldn’t get Resident Evil 1’s GOG release to work on Deck, but I hope this one works.

Capcom also released a demo for the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection on Steam and consoles. Check it out here. Read my preview of the full game here.

Silent Hill 2 from Konami got a new story trailer, and this is the first trailer that’s been liked by a friend of mine who is a huge fan of the series. This will be my first Silent Hill game, so I’m excited to try it.

Square Enix released a new “Final” trailer for Visions of Mana ahead of its launch next week. I can’t wait to talk about the full game soon.

A few days ago, Cygames released the big Version 1.50 update for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising on Steam and consoles bringing in big balance adjustments, the new DLC character Versusia, and in-game content included with Battle Pass Round 5. Watch the trailer below:

Persona 3 Reload’s expansion Episode Aigis is adding Joker as a boss fight. I didn’t expect that one, but I’m looking forward to playing the DLC very soon.

Atlus will host a new ATLUS Exclusive showcase for Metaphor: ReFantazio on August 28th at 8 PM. It will be on YouTube. I’m looking forward to playing this hopefully soon for review. Atlus also revealed the English voice cast for the game. Check it out below:

Protagonist – Caleb Yen
Strohl – Stewart Clarke
Hulkenberg – Kristin Atherton
Gallica – Alejandra Reynoso
Heismay – Phillipe Spall
Junah – Emma Ballantine
Eupha – Emily Burnett
Neuras – David Monteith
Louis – Joseph Tweedale
More – Greg Chun
Grius – Gordon Cooper

A new trailer for Metaphor has also gone live, and it is the best one yet for the game ahead of its launch in October. Watch it below:

SEGA released a new trailer for Sonic X Shadow Generations that makes me wish the game was out sooner. We need anime music videos based on this for sure.

Tempest Rising from 3D Realms got a new PvP teaser trailer this week at Gamescom 2024. It looks superb. Check out the footage below:

A game I’m excited to play later this year, Slitterhead from Bokeh Game Studio, got a new story trailer this week. Watch it below:

A game most thought wouldn’t release this year, The Plucky Squire from Devolver Digital, launches on September 17th with a lovely new trailer you can watch below. I’m excited to try this out on Steam Deck and Switch.

Devolver Digital is also launching Sumerian Six, the real time tactical stealth game via Steam, on September 2nd.

Raw Fury is releasing the horror survival game Post Trauma on October 29th. Check out its release date trailer below:

Blizzard is celebrating Warcraft’s 30th anniversary in Overwatch 2 with a new skin for Widowmaker as Sylvanas next month. Check it out below:

Action adventure game Unknown 9: Awakening from Bandai Namco launches on October 18th for Steam and consoles. Pre-orders are now live with a new gameplay trailer you can watch below:

Eternal Strands, set to launch in 2025, got a new gameplay trailer at Gamescom 2024 from Yellow Brick Games. Watch it below:

Superhero-themed visual novel Sacrifice Villains from Shiravune is set to release on Steam this year. It will be priced at $19.99. Check out the Steam page here.

Little Nightmares III also had a new trailer during Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024. It releases on Steam and all consoles next year.

Diablo IV’s Vessel of Hatred expansion got a new trailer showcasing the Mercenary companions ahead of the expansion’s launch this October.

Inti Creates is releasing a demo for Card-en-Ciel on September 4th for Steam. Alongside this news, a new gameplay trailer has been released. Watch it below:

A sequel to Wilmot’s Warehouse is set to release on Steam on October 23rd in the form of Wilmot Works It Out. I loved the original and cannot wait to play this.

Risk of Rain 2’s Seekers of the Storm DLC launches on August 27th for PC and consoles. I’ll be checking this one out on Steam Deck.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II launches on February 11th, 2025 and a new gameplay showcase this week makes me wonder if this will even run on Steam Deck with how good it looks. I’ll definitely try it. Watch the showcase below:

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves from SNK launches on April 24th, 2025 for Steam, PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series X. The launch price is a special edition with the first pass. Watch the new trailer showing off the amazing Mai Shiranui and the release date showcase below:

Level Infinite streamed its recent “Into the Infinite” showcase featuring updates from its partners covering games like Soulframe, Warframe, and much more. Watch it below:

Sharkmob’s Exoborne had a new trailer released during the showcase above as well. Watch it below:

Civilization VII from Firaxis and 2K launches for Steam and all consoles on February 11th, 2025 with pre-orders now live. Check out the gameplay trailer below:

2K also revealed two other games for 2025, and they’re big ones. Borderlands 4 and Mafia The Old Country are in development for Steam and consoles for 2025 release. Watch the trailers below:

Arc System Works has revealed new details for Double Dragon Revive including the composers and story details. The composers include Raito and many more. Check out the website here.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle launches on Steam and Xbox on December 9th with pre-orders now live on Steam. I’m looking forward to playing this.

The newest Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream trailers focus on Leafa and Sinon. Watch them below:

Delta Force, the first person multiplayer shooter, previously known as Delta Force: Hawk Ops launches later this year for PC via Early Access on Steam from Level Infinite. It is also set to come to iOS and Android and consoles.

Amazon Prime is doing a series on video games titled Secret Level with a focus on specific games over 15 episodes. These include Armored Core, Spelunky, New World: Aeternum, and more. It is set to begin streaming this December.

Speaking of New World: Aeterum, a new video series based on the game can now be watched ahead of the game’s launch on October 15th:

Marvel Rivals from NetEase Games launches as a free to play game on December 6th for Steam and consoles with all heroes included for free.

Starfield’s Shattered Space DLC launches on September 30th for Steam and Xbox. A new update is also available now on all platforms.

Akatsuki Games released a new trailer for the extreme action game Tribe Nine ahead of its launch on Steam and mobile.

Free to play third person MOBA Predecessor is now available on Steam and consoles from Omeda Studios. Watch the trailer for it below:

Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO gets another trailer showing off more of the game in its “50 days from now” trailer. Watch it below:

Path of Exile 2 launches on Steam and consoles via Early Access on November 15th. Watch the new trailer from Grinding Gear Games below:

Dying Light: The Beast is a standalone open world game that’s free for owners of Dying Light 2 Ultimate Edition. It is set to release in the future.

Idea Factory International announced that Date A Live: Ren Dystopia releases on September 5th for Steam. I’ll be reviewing this one. Check it out on Steam here.

Torn Banner Studios (Chivalry 2) announced that the UE5-powered shooter No More Room in Hell 2 will launch in Steam early access this Halloween. Watch the trailer below from Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024:

Warner Bros Games also showcased a new Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns gameplay trailer focussing on Cyrax who is a part of the new DLC.

Tokyo Xtreme Racer from Genki is a new entry in the long-running series coming to Steam in 2025. I’m glad to see this because a friend of mine is a huge fan. Watch the trailer below:

Square Enix released a new trailer for Life is Strange: Double Exposure showcasing Max’s powers. Watch it below:

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

This week, Yakuza 4 and Devil Blade Reboot are the highlights for new Verified games, and EA’s anti-cheat issues continue to make more games unplayable on Steam Deck. Check out every notable game tested by Valve since the last article below:

#BLUD – Verified
Atlas Fallen – Unsupported
Battlefield 1 – Unsupported (new anti-cheat issues)
DEVIL BLADE REBOOT – Verified
EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25 – Unsupported (new anti-cheat issues)
Eastward – Playable
Flatout 3 – Playable
hololive treasure mountain – Verified
Isles of Sea and Sky – Verified
LISA: The First – Unsupported
Metropolis: Lux Obscura – Playable
Mika and The Witch’s Mountain – Verified
Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare 2: Deluxe Edition – Unsupported (new anti-cheat issues)
Pocket Bravery – Playable
shapez 2 – Playable
Skull and Bones – Playable
SNK VS. CAPCOM SVC CHAOS – Playable
SPY×ANYA: Operation Memories – Playable
Squirrel with a Gun – Verified
Sword of Convallaria – Unsupported
Teeny Tiny Trains – Playable
The Infectious Madness of Doctor Dekker – Playable
THE LAST BLADE – Playable
Tomba! Special Edition – Playable
Wild Bastards – Verified
Yakuza 4 Remastered – Verified

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

The highlights of the week when it comes to sales and discounts are the Steam Rhythm Fest until August 26th with discounts on games like Crypt of the Necrodancer, Trombone Champ, and DJ MAX RESPECT V, and also the new Capcom Resident Evil Humble Bundle.

Next week, following the Rhythm Fest, the Isometric Games Sale begins with many discounts from publishers and developers including Owlcat Games. Check out a trailer for the event below:

That’s all for this edition of the Steam Deck Weekly. As usual, you can read all our past and future Steam Deck coverage here. If you have any feedback for this feature or what else you’d like to see us do around the Steam Deck, let us know in the comments below. I hope you all have a great day, and thanks for reading.



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