Latest news with #retro
Geek Tyrant
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Tyrant
New THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS Images Feature Galactus, Silver Surfer, and The Fantastic Four — GeekTyrant
Marvel has just dropped some new images for The Fantastic Four: First Steps thanks to Empire Magazine with a couple of striking new covers for its June issue, and they're loaded with character reveals. One cover spotlights Marvel's First Family with Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm—posing heroically with Silver Surfer soaring behind them. The second, a stylized piece from artist @_doaly, goes full cosmic, giving us a surreal new look at both the Silver Surfer and the looming presence of Galactus. I'm excited that Galactus is officially coming to the MCU, and that he's being played by the thunder-voiced Ralph Ineson. I'm excited to see how his story will play out over the course of the film As for Silver Surfer, she's portrayed by Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal, a femal version of the iconic Herald of Galactus that fans have mixed feeling about. Set in a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is being described as a bold stylistic shift for the MCU. 'Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios' The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel's First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Ben Grimm/The Thing—as they face their most daunting challenge yet.' Directed by Matt Shakman ( WandaVision ), the film stars Pedro Pascal as Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrachas The Thing. Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, and Natasha Lyonne also appear in the film in undisclosed roles. Michael Giacchino is scoring the film, so expect the soundtrack to match the retro-future vibe. The film marks the start of Phase Six and hits theaters July 25, 2025.
The Verge
4 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
There's no word yet on a wider global release, but Sharge has launched a
Sharge's new USB charger has a retro dot matrix status display. new USB charger in China that trades LCD and OLED screens for a grid of white LEDs on the side showing its charging status. It's available with 140W of power output and 3 USB-C ports, or 100W that adds an additional USB-A port. The display can rotate at the push of a button so it remains upright and easy to read.
Geeky Gadgets
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
Anbernic RG34XXSP Review : Nostalgia Meets Modern Gaming in Your Pocket
Have you ever wondered if a handheld gaming console could truly balance nostalgia, portability, and affordability without cutting corners? The Anbernic RG34XXSP boldly steps into this arena, promising retro gaming enthusiasts a compact, foldable device that fits in your pocket and takes you back to the golden age of gaming. But with a smaller screen than its predecessor and no significant performance upgrades, it raises a critical question: does the RG34XXSP deliver enough to justify its place in your collection, or is it simply a repackaged version of what we've seen before? In this rundown, ETA Prime explores whether this device lives up to its promise or falls short of expectations. From its dual analog sticks and tactile Japanese dome switches to its sleek foldable design, the RG34XXSP packs features that cater to gamers who prioritize precision and portability. But this isn't just about specs—it's about the experience. How does the smaller 3.4-inch IPS screen hold up for text-heavy games? Can the unchanged H700 quad-core CPU handle your favorite retro titles without breaking a sweat? And what about the quirks, like the cumbersome battery replacement process? Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or someone curious about diving into the world of handheld nostalgia, this review will unpack the highs, lows, and everything in between. After all, the best gaming experiences are about more than just hardware—they're about how it all comes together. Compact Retro Gaming Device Design and Build The RG34XXSP's defining feature is its compact, foldable design, making it an excellent choice for gamers who value portability. This design ensures the device is easy to carry, fitting comfortably into pockets or small bags, which is ideal for on-the-go gaming. A notable improvement over its predecessor is the inclusion of dual analog sticks, which enhance control across a variety of gaming genres, from platformers to action-adventure titles. The device features a 3.4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720×480. While slightly smaller than the RG35XXSP's 3.5-inch screen, the IPS panel delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making sure a visually pleasing experience. However, the reduced screen size may impact the enjoyment of games with intricate visuals or text-heavy interfaces, particularly for users accustomed to larger displays. Available in four color options—indigo, yellow, gray, and black—the console caters to diverse aesthetic preferences. The use of Japanese dome switches provides tactile feedback, enhancing precision for games that require accurate inputs, such as fighting games and platformers. Additionally, the inclusion of a glass screen protector improves durability, making the device more resilient to scratches and wear, a practical feature for gamers frequently on the move. Hardware and Features The RG34XXSP is powered by the H700 quad-core Cortex A53 CPU, clocked at 1.5 GHz, the same processor used in its predecessor. While this ensures compatibility with a wide range of retro gaming platforms, it does not offer any significant performance improvements. The device is equipped with 2GB of RAM, which is sufficient for running most retro games smoothly, though it may struggle with more demanding titles. A 3,300mAh replaceable battery powers the console, providing several hours of gameplay on a single charge. However, replacing the battery requires disassembly and adhesive removal, which can be challenging for users unfamiliar with hardware modifications. The device offers a variety of connectivity options, including: Dual microSD card slots for expandable storage. A USB-C charging port for fast and convenient charging. A mini HDMI output for connecting to external displays. A 3.5mm headphone jack for private audio playback. Additionally, the RG34XXSP supports AC Wi-Fi (5 GHz) and Bluetooth 5.2, allowing wireless multiplayer gaming and the pairing of accessories such as controllers or headphones. These features add versatility, particularly for users who enjoy cooperative or competitive gaming experiences. Anbernic RG34XXSP First Look Watch this video on YouTube. Learn more about handheld games consoles with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Performance The RG34XXSP is optimized for retro gaming, supporting platforms such as Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 1, Dreamcast, and some Nintendo 64 titles. It performs well on these platforms, delivering smooth gameplay and responsive controls. However, the device struggles with higher-end systems like the PSP, where performance issues such as frame drops and lag may occur. The addition of dual analog sticks is a welcome improvement, offering greater control for games that benefit from precise directional input. However, their potential is somewhat limited by the device's inability to handle more demanding games effectively. The Japanese dome switches further enhance the gaming experience by providing responsive and tactile feedback, which is particularly advantageous for fast-paced or precision-based games. Despite its strengths, the 3.4-inch screen may detract from the overall experience for certain games, especially those with detailed visuals or text-heavy interfaces. This limitation could be a drawback for users who prefer larger displays for an immersive gaming experience. Drawbacks While the RG34XXSP offers several appealing features, it also has notable limitations. The smaller screen size may not satisfy users accustomed to larger displays, and the lack of performance upgrades due to the unchanged CPU could disappoint those expecting a more powerful device. Although the dual analog sticks improve control, their utility is constrained by the device's limited ability to handle higher-end gaming platforms. The replaceable battery, while a practical feature, involves a cumbersome replacement process that requires disassembly and adhesive removal. This could deter users who are less comfortable with hardware modifications or lack the necessary tools. Furthermore, the device's focus on retro gaming may not appeal to gamers seeking a more versatile handheld console capable of running modern titles. Final Thoughts The Anbernic RG34XXSP is a compact and affordable handheld gaming device designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. Its foldable design, dual analog sticks, and tactile Japanese dome switches make it a practical choice for nostalgic gaming sessions and everyday portability. Priced at $68, with a promotional launch price of $59.99, it offers good value for its intended purpose. However, the device's smaller screen, lack of significant performance improvements, and limited capability for higher-end platforms may restrict its appeal to a niche audience. If portability and retro gaming are your primary concerns, the RG34XXSP is worth considering. For those seeking a more versatile gaming console with enhanced performance, exploring other options may be a better choice. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Telegraph
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Telegraph
Renault R4 review: A fine-driving machine that's more luxurious than the original
Renault, the 126-year-old, partly French state-owned car maker, has changed direction in recent years. Once it was remorselessly future-faced, with advanced and controversial ideas of what cars should look like, typified by models such as the Dauphine, the 16, the Espace, Avantime and Vel Satis and of course the original Renault 5. It's now moving in a contrary direction with this year's distinctly-retro Car of the Year, the electric Renault 5. Under Luca De Meo, who was appointed in 2020 after masterminding and relaunching the retro-inspired Fiat 500, Renault has once again looked to the models we once loved for inspiration. And with the electric R5 occupying first place in retail EV sales in the UK, it proves that with the right car at the right price, European firms can take on and beat the Chinese. Costing from £26,995, the Renault 4 goes on sale this July with first deliveries in September. The name harks back to the phenomenally successful Renault 4 launched in 1961 and selling eight million globally in 30 years of production. This new R4, however, is much larger and a deal more luxurious than the charming but utilitarian original. Homage or all new? That hasn't stopped the PR machine telling us how much inspiration came from that first R4, many of which can still be seen still working hard in the more rural parts of Portugal where the launch took place. The rear three-quarter window over the rear wheel, the full-length illuminated glass grille, the round headlights and the tailgate shape are all touted as similar to the old R4. That's as maybe, but the windscreen is the wrong shape, which loses the original's naive and cute look; the stripped-out, utilitarian feel of the Sixties car is completely gone. That's confirmed when my wife calls me in the car on Apple CarPlay and Reno, the car's super-annoying avatar, appears over the top of the navigation page on the touchscreen to listen in and won't go away until I'd given it some choice Anglo-Saxon commands. Add a litany of extras such as heated seats and steering wheel, powered tailgate, various driver-assist modes and one-pedal regenerative braking and you end up with a car which is as far from utilitarian as a Sultan's palace. The truth is that Dacia is Renault's utility marque; the new R4 merely plays with the idea for modern families. As to the rivals, well think Fiat's 600e and Grande Panda, Kia's EV3, the new Mini Aceman, Citroën's new ë-C3 Aircross, or the Jeep Avenger, another Car of the Year award winner. Back in the day, the R4 was always cheaper than its better-equipped R5 counterpart. This 21st century R4 is the more expensive of the two, although comparisons are complicated. The new R5 has a lower-power battery option starting at £22,995, which isn't available in the R4. If you match battery size, not trim levels, there's nothing in it; the 52kWh R5 costs the same as the starter-price R4 with the same battery at £26,995. Match the cars spec-for-spec and you're looking at an additional £2,000 to move from R5 to R4, up to £30,995 for the top model Iconic, although a forthcoming canvas roof option will add another £1,500. The running order Under the skin is Renault's Amp-R chassis also used in the R5. Unusually for this segment the suspension is all-independent, MacPherson strut at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear, which hints that a 4x4 option could eventually be offered. The EV drivetrain comprises a 52kWh lithium-ion NMC battery, with a 148bhp/181lb ft permanent-magnet AC motor driving the front wheels through a step-down gear. Top speed is 93mph and 0-62mph achieved in 8.2sec. Claimed efficiency is about 3.9 miles per kWh, although that doesn't quite equate to the claimed maximum range of 247 miles. Portugal was warm and the route, though hilly, was gentle, which gave an efficiency reading of 4.2 miles per kWh, which means a range of about 218 miles. Tailpipe (spot the deliberate error) emissions are zero, but using UK electricity generation data, CO2 emissions are of the order of 27g/km. The R4 will fast charge up to 100kW DC, which means a 15 to 80 per cent charge takes about half an hour. Using a household 7.4kW wallbox, a full charge takes almost eight hours. A heat pump is standard and the R4 weighs 1.462 tonnes (an original weighed only 600kg) and will tow up to 750kg. Inside job Although there's an additional 8cm in the distance between the front and rear wheels compared with the R5, it's not much wider and it feels quite snug inside. You'll just about jam three grown teenagers in the back but they'll be moaning within a couple of miles. The rear-seat backs fold 60/40 per cent on their bases to give a highly stepped load floor. The boot capacity is a healthy 420 litres (375 litres in VDA measure) with the rear seats up and 1,405 litres with them folded – there's also a false floor with a 55-litre space underneath for the charge cables, while the top model Iconic trim has a powered tailgate. Of note, too, is the low load lip. As mentioned, there's not much utilitarian to the plush interior, with expensive-feeling fabrics over the facia and an angled twin screen comprising the instrument binnacle and the touchscreen. The graphics and control systems are straightforward, but occasionally distracting, while the Google-based navigation system misbehaved so I resorted to Waze to follow the test route. The seats are plush, nicely upholstered and well bolstered. You sit quite high at the wheel, with good visibility to the sides but rearward views slightly obstructed by the rear-seat headrests. On the road No original R4 was ever this brisk. This new battery-powered version feels like a speeded-up chase sequence from a caper movie, not madcap fast, but a deal quicker than you'd expect, which makes overtaking easy. It rides nicely, too, with a gentle, almost bobbing gait, with a bit of body roll which is ultimately well controlled; it feels as though passengers are going to be comfortable rather than queasy. That said, the 18-inch tyres will crunch through potholes and over the more pronounced sleeping policemen. The handling is also well configured, imparting a sense of control and confidence that allows you to accurately position the car into a corner, it doesn't create a drama if you find you need to apply a bit more steering lock. In fact, the R4 feels progressive and balanced if you push it hard through a turn. While that sort of fast driving isn't what this car is intended for, it matches the spirit of the original which always seemed to be driven with some gusto. The brakes feel powerful with a progressive-feeling pedal and a decent grab at the top of its travel. And as with all Renaults, there's a Perso button, which can be set up to eliminate some of the more annoying advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) aids with a double push. In fact, it's a really fine-driving machine and after four hours at the wheel I still felt comfortable and ready to carry on, which can't be said of all its rivals. The Telegraph verdict There's not a lot of the past in the appearance of this new R4 and in that respect at least, it lacks the gotta-have-it mien of the R5, which is reminiscent of its forebear visually. Therefore the new R4 speaks more to the head than the heart, which is probably about right for what will be for many families their only car. The family crossover market is looking for space and comfort before nostalgia and, in that case, the R4 delivers au point. The facts On test: Renault R4 Techno 150PS Comfort Body style: five-door five-seat family crossover On sale: July 2025 How much? £26,995 to £30,995 (£29,000 as tested) How fast? 93mph, 0-62mph in 8.2sec How economical? 3.9 miles per kWh (WLTP Combined), 4.2m/kWh on test Powertrain: 52kWh gross lithium-ion NMC 622 battery pack with AC permanent magnet motor, front-wheel drive Range: 247 miles (WLTP), 218 miles on test Charging: 11kW on-board charger on board; 15-80 per cent on 100kW charger 30 minutes, 0-100 in 4hr 44min; 7.4kW household wallbox, 100 per cent in 7hr 47min Maximum power/torque: 148bhp/181lb ft CO2 emissions: 0g/km (tailpipe), 27g/km (CO2 equivalent well-to-wheel) VED: £0 Warranty: three years/100,000 miles on car, eight years/100,000 miles on battery The rivals Jeep Avenger Electric, from £29,999 A former Car of the Year winner and available with pure electric and hybrid petrol/electric and with front-wheel drive or 4x4, the this is stylish and good to drive but not as comfortable, fun or as spacious as the R4. The 54kWh battery can be fast charged at 100kW and gives a 249-mile range. Citroën ë-C3, from £21,990 Also available as a hybrid, this family crossover has a 44kWh battery using the more robust but space-hungry LFP chemistry so the 203-mile range and 100kW DC fast charging are far from class-leading. It's great to drive though, with a terrific ride quality. The £23,095 e-Aircross is larger and just as good to drive, but the range is only 188 miles.
Forbes
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Watch AI Trailer Of ‘The Last Of Us' Starring 1980s Era Mel Gibson
Mel Gibson in publicity shot for Lethal Weapon. (Photo by Aaron Rapoport/Corbis via Getty Images) The 1987 versions of Mel Gibson and Jennifer Connelly play Joel and Ellie in a retro AI trailer reimagining The Last of Us as an HBO movie. The Last of Us, of course, is a big hit for HBO and its streaming service Max. The small screen adaptation of the blockbuster Naughty Dog video game kicked off in 2023 with a nine-episode season starring Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie and returned for its seven-episode second season on April 13. The Last of Us series follows the survivors of a global pandemic following an outbreak of the Cordyceps fungal infection that turns victims into zombie-like creatures. At the beginning of the series, Joel is tasked with smuggling Ellie, who is immune to the disease — outside of the quarantine zone in a future dilapidated United States. Season 2 of The Last of Us is set five years after the first and sees the tragic demise of Joel in an act of revenge by Abby (Kaitlyn Dever). In a new artificial intelligence-generated retro-style VHS trailer on YouTube posted over the weekend, content creator Multiverse of Movies reimagined version of The Last of Us as a 1987 movie release on HBO. In its description of the faux 1 minute and 24 second trailer, Multiverse of Movies notes, 'What if The Last of Us wasn't a modern prestige HBO series ... but a gritty, synth-drenched action drama from 1987 by HBO? 'Experience Joel and Ellie's journey like never before — in glorious VHS quality. Starring Mel Gibson, Jennifer Connelly, and Christopher Walken, this retro reimagining blends post-apocalyptic chaos with 80s-style action.' See The Last of Us '80s-style retro movie trailer below. While the AI trailer imagining a 1987 version of The Last of Us as an HBO movie is impressive enough with its rendering of Mel Gibson and Jennifer Connelly in the roles of Joel and Ellie, it also populates the post-apocalyptic landscape with the younger versions of several other major stars, circa the 1980s. The faux movie trailer of The Last of Us features characters from the first and second seasons of the series. The all-star lineup imagines Christopher Walken as David, Linda Hamilton as Abby, Sigourney Weaver as Tess, Patrick Swayze as Tommy, John Goodman as Bill, Kevin Kline as Frank and Angela Bassett as Marlene. Additionally, the AI trailer features Rae Dawn Chong as Maria, Glenn Close as Kathleen, Lisa Bonet as Riley, Denzel Washington as Henry, Emmanuel Lewis as Sam, Carl Weathers as Isaac and Jennifer Beals as Dina. Of course, if you want to see the actual screen version of The Last of Us, Season 1 and Season 2 of the series — through Episode 6 — are on HBO and streaming on Max. The season finale of The Last of Us premieres this Sunday, May 25.
