But keep those tissues at bay because he won’t be ghosting us like a Boo in a haunted castle. As an ambassador, he’ll continue to spread Mario’s love worldwide, just without the studio mic.

Nintendo, in a statement as heartfelt as a Princess Peach letter, thanked Martinet and teased a special video message from him and Mario’s creator, Shigeru Miyamoto.

My new Adventure begins! You are all Numba One in my heart! #woohoo !!!!!!! https://t.co/3YWYewlnXt

— Charles Martinet (@CharlesMartinet) August 21, 2023

“Charles Martinet has been the original voice of Mario in Nintendo games for a long time, as far back as Super Mario 64. Charles is now moving into the brand-new role of Mario Ambassador,” writes Nintendo in its farewell tweet. “With this transition, he will be stepping back from recording character voices for our games, but he’ll continue to travel the world sharing the joy of Mario and interacting with you all!

It has been an honor working with Charles to help bring Mario to life for so many years and we want to thank and celebrate him. Please keep an eye out for a special video message from Shigeru Miyamoto and Charles himself, which we will post at a future date.“

Martinet was in the recent Super Mario Bros Movie, where he voiced Mario’s dad. The film, starring Chris Pratt and Charlie Day, scored a massive glowing 1-Up, grossing over $1 billion.

With Martinet stepping back, the big question is, who will voice our favorite plumber in the next game, Super Mario Bros Wonder?

Nintendo reps remain as silent as Luigi in a ghost house. But hey, no rush. It’s just the voice of the most iconic character in gaming. No big deal, right?

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The Nintendo Switch is now the third-best-selling console ever
• Super Mario RPG is making a triumphant return to the switch
• What is Mario Day?
• The best Nintendo Switch accessories (2023)

The post The voice of Super Mario hangs up his overalls for retirement appeared first on KnowTechie.

Mike Verdu, VP of Netflix’s gaming division, broke the news in a blog post, saying they’re about to throw open the doors to their surprisingly robust mobile gaming stash.

So, who gets access and who doesn’t? For now, only a chosen few in Canada and the UK can game on their TVs via Netflix. But don’t worry: PC and Mac users, your turn is coming soon.

The beta version’s got games like Oxenfree and Molehew’s Mining Adventure. To play, you scan a QR code on your screen, and bam, it launches a separate app that turns your phone into a gaming controller, which they launched last week.

The gaming beta app, which Netflix sneakily released last week, is available now. But you’ll need the beta functionality to make it work on your TV. If you’re a computer gamer, your good ol’ keyboard and mouse will do the trick.

You should be able to access the gaming feature on the Netflix app across various platforms like Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, LG TVs, and more. Netflix says they plan on expanding its services in the future.

The Game Controller App, which looks like your traditional controller buttons and a joystick, is the only way to play Netflix games on TV for now.

What about 3rd-party controller support? Don’t hold your breath; Netflix says they’re focusing on polishing the app first before piling on extra features. Some might see this as a missed opportunity since some Netflix games are already console-ready.

But at the same time, if this venture whiffs, that’s a whole lot of resources spent for nothing just because you want to play Netflix games on your $50 retro gaming controller that you insisted on buying.

Some games like Wonderputt Forever and Poinpy are designed for mobile phones, so it’ll be interesting to see how they adapt to bigger screens and Netflix’s limited interface.

As Netflix’s subscription costs go up and the benefits seem to go down, the addition of quality indie games could be a lifeline. This new gaming venture might be what Netflix needs to keep subscribers who’ve run out of shows to binge.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Netflix wants to micromanage your viewing habits with “My Netflix”
• New Netflix feature allows easy profile transfers
• Netflix’s password shakedown begins now, $8 per user
• Netflix doubles down on 40 more games nobody asked for

The post Netflix levels up with new in-app gaming feature appeared first on KnowTechie.

But before you start a petition or build a shrine to your favorite 360 titles, there’s a silver lining. 

Any original Xbox or Xbox 360 games and DLC that are backward compatible on the Xbox One or Series X/S will still be up for grabs on the newer consoles’ storefronts. So, you can still get your nostalgia fix, just not on the 360.

And I’ve got some bad news for those of you who’ve been using your Xbox 360 as a glorified TV remote. The Microsoft Movies & TV app is also getting axed on the same date. 

But it’s not much of a big deal; any content you’ve bought will stay in your library, and you can watch it on Windows 10 and 11 devices, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.

Now, this move isn’t entirely surprising. The last game for the 360 was released five years ago, and keeping the store open doesn’t make much business sense for Microsoft. Also, it’s 2023; cmon, we have to put this thing out to pasture already. 

But it does throw a wrench in the works for game preservation. Digital-only games will be as extinct as a dodo on the 360, which is a real gut punch for preservationists.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Well, it’s a reminder that in the digital age, nothing lasts forever. Not even our favorite gaming platforms. 

But as we bid adieu to the Xbox 360 store, let’s not forget that gaming, like any other medium, is about evolution. 

And while it’s okay to mourn the loss of an old friend, let’s also look forward to new experiences like fighting digital robot scalpers for new consoles.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• PS5 cloud streaming service leaves beta testers wanting more
• Rumored Sony PlayStation 5 Slim appears in new video 
• Netflix’s new app turns your smartphone into a controller
• Lenovo is reportedly cooking up a handheld gaming beast

The post Xbox 360 Store to close its doors, marking the end of an 18-year era appeared first on KnowTechie.

However, this isn’t the first time Lenovo dabbled in the handheld gaming territory. The company was rumored to launch an Android-based device called Legion Play, which was ultimately a no-show. 

So, a month earlier, when we reported the Legion Go rumor, we wondered how this new handheld would stack up against major players like Steam Deck or ROG Ally. Fortunately, we now have leaked images of the device, which look very good! 

Lenovo Legion Go really exists!

The initial report about the Lenovo Legion Go didn’t reveal anything except the name. So, we were skeptical.

Thankfully, Windows Report lifted the veil of mystery from the Lenovo Legion Go with a new leak, where the outlet shared detailed images of the handheld device from multiple angles. 

According to the images, Lenovo’s take on PC handheld looks quite similar to the Steam Deck or ROG Ally but also takes cues from the Nintendo Switch. 

Lenovo Legion Go looks excellent with Joy-Con-like controllers

Windows Report has revealed that the Legion Go sports an 8-inch display, which is considerably larger than the 7-inch displays of the Deck or Ally.

The device also features Joy-Con-like slide-out controllers and has the same kickstand as the Switch.

However, Legion Go’s controllers aren’t exactly similar to Nintendo Switch. While the controllers are detachable, the design is a combination of Switch’s flat and Steam Deck‘s outlined grips. 

We noticed what looked like a touchpad on the right controller. In contrast, Steam Deck features touchpads on both controllers. We speculate the display to be touchscreen as the controllers are detachable. 

That said, the most important takeaway from the images is the fact that Lenovo Legion Go is thick. Thicker than thick, in fact.

ASUS hastily steered off from making the ROG Ally bulky, compromising the device’s battery life. However, Lenovo isn’t shy about making Legion Go beefier. 

Windows Report also mentioned that Legion Go will run Windows 11, meaning you can enjoy all Windows games on this upcoming gaming handheld. 

The previous report suggested AMD Phoenix processors like the one in the ROG Ally and other upcoming Windows handhelds will power the Legion Go. However, we have no confirmation yet. 

Moreover, the release window and the rest of the specs are still unknown. Hopefully, we will get more information in the coming weeks. Until then, let’s stare at these leaked images some more.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Is Sony working on a new PlayStation handheld?
• Razer reveals its new $399 handheld cloud gaming system
• Microsoft replaces Xbox Live Gold with Game Pass Core
• Windows 11 might finally add RGB lighting controls

The post Lenovo Legion Go looks beefier than Steam Deck in leaked images appeared first on KnowTechie.

This new feature will potentially change everything for PlayStation owners, eliminating the need for lengthy downloads that consume valuable storage space.

An email from PlayStation to a selected tester, which surfaced on Reddit, expressed excitement over the unveiling of the PS5 cloud streaming.

The email emphasized the importance of the tester’s contribution to the beta testing period, which operates on exclusive invite codes that cannot be shared with other users.

It also hinted at potential changes to the features before the official launch of cloud streaming.

One beta tester, ArashiGames, shared their experience on ResetEra, stating that they tested the game God of War: Ragnarok at 2160p without any hitches.

They also noted the availability of resolution options ranging from 720p to 2160p for that particular title and mentioned that the game Returnal streamed in 4K.

According to the tester, a new section in the PS+ menu is dedicated to streaming PS5 games, which load in just a few seconds. They listed Horizon Forbidden West, Fortnite, Destiny 2, and Death Stranding, among others, as streaming options.

The ability to support 4K resolution could give PlayStation a competitive edge over Xbox Cloud Gaming, which currently tops at 1080p resolution and 60fps.

In addition, Sony is working on “Project Q,” a streaming handheld device with an 8-inch, 1080p screen and a 60Hz refresh rate.

While the device is confirmed to use Remote Play, streaming directly from a console rather than the cloud, it could also support cloud streaming.

The device is slated for a release later this year, though the price remains undisclosed. The game streaming feature will be exclusive to PS Plus Premium members.

This service, priced at $18 per month, already supports cloud gaming for PS4, PS3, and select classic titles, allowing games to be streamed to PS5, PS4, or PC.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Two new Pixel tablet accessories are still in the pipeline
• Leaked Google Pixel 8 Pro ad showcases “Audio Magic Eraser”
• Google Pixel 8 series will stick to 128GB base storage, says leak
• Pixel Watch 2 leak hints at a lighter build, new Fitbit features

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post PS5 cloud streaming service leaves beta testers wanting more appeared first on KnowTechie.

The rumor about the PlayStation 5 Pro model in development has been running for a few months at least. However, very little is known about the PlayStation 5 Slim variant. 

Sony started the trend of having a PlayStation Slim variant since the PlayStation 2. And it has been three years since the original PlayStation 5, so we’ve all been wondering whether Sony would be release a Slim variant of the PS5.

The video of the PlayStation 5 Slim was leaked on X, formerly Twitter

A video was leaked on X, formerly Twitter, that appears to be the new “Slim” variant of the PS5 through BwE_Dev.

The video showcases the device from various angles. However, we are uncertain at the moment whether this is a new PS5 variant. The device looks pretty much the same as the existing PlayStation 5 in the video. Unfortunately, we are unable to confirm its validity, so take this video with a grain of salt. 

Coincidentally, another leak has appeared regarding the so-called PlayStation 5 Slim from a Chinese forum called A9VG. 

Like the previous leak, the Chinese forum didn’t leak a video, but they did leak a partial image of the device, which looks like a differently designed PlayStation 5. It could be the alleged “Slim” variant. 

The leaked image also matches the device showcased in the leaked video. The leak also says that the new model is 5 cm (roughly 2 inches) taller than the existing PlayStation 5 model but has the same thickness. 

Additionally, the leak says the new PlayStation 5 Slim has a new black slit in the middle, a detachable disc drive, and two USB-C ports at the front of the device.

Once again, even with two consequent leaks showcasing the same device, we are still not sure about its legitimacy. So, don’t get your hopes up just yet. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Sony says its EV will be built around the PlayStation 5
• PlayStation 5 with detachable disc drive reportedly coming in 2023
• Budget-friendly expandable storage cards are coming to Xbox
• Microsoft jacks up prices for Xbox Series X and Game Pass

The post Rumored Sony PlayStation 5 Slim appears in new video  appeared first on KnowTechie.

Basically, the new app will transform the user’s phones into game controllers, letting them play games on their TV. It’s currently only available on the iPhone.

However, this is not the streaming giant’s first encounter with the gaming industry. Back in 2021, the company launched multiple mobile games, included as free to play for its subscribers through its service.

The Stranger Things: 1984 game and Shooting Hoops were a part of this release. However, the streaming company’s mobile game library has since expanded, with more than 63 titles currently available.

Is Netflix trying to enter the Cloud gaming market? 

Since the launch of its mobile games, Netflix has been quite vocal about its plans to expand to the cloud-based gaming territory. 

At the TechCrunch Disrupt event back in 2022, Netflix’s VP of Gaming, Mike Verdu, stated that Netflix was “exploring a cloud gaming offering.” 

However, it is not yet clear which games will be available for the subscribers to play on their TVs via smartphone-turned-game controller.

We expect the company to bring this controller support for some of the already-released games. Whether it will be a hit or a miss is yet to be seen. 

Will Netflix’s new cloud gaming venture be successful?

Several cloud gaming platforms have failed in the past, most notably Google’s Stadia. And Netflix is just starting out at a time when it is experiencing a loss in subscribers.

So right now, it is difficult to conclude, although the streaming giant already has a solid subscriber base, which could push the company toward success. And turning the smartphone into a gaming controller is a good start, to begin with. 

So, at the moment, we have no other option but to wait and watch. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• New Netflix feature allows easy profile transfers
• Netflix doubles down on 40 more games nobody asked for
• Disney Plus says price hikes and password crackdowns on the horizon
• Paramount+ overtakes Apple TV+ in streaming wars

The post Netflix’s new app turns your smartphone into a controller appeared first on KnowTechie.

Razer Leviathan V2: Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar with Subwoofer	SAMSUNG HW-B650 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1 DTS	Bose Smart Soundbar 300	Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2	Creative Stage V2 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer	Klipsch Cinema 600 Sound Bar 3.1 Home Theater System	VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar	Sonos Playbar - Sound Bar
4.3	4.5	4.3	3.9	4.1	4.3	4.6	4.6
$249.99$202.99	$397.99$367.99	$449.00	$259.99	$109.99$99.99	$549.00$403.99	$119.99$99.88	$599.00$349.99
Check Availability	Check Availability	See at Amazon	See at Amazon	See at Amazon	See at Amazon	See at Amazon	See at Amazon

Razer Leviathan V2: Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar with Subwoofer

4.3

$249.99$202.99

Check Availability

SAMSUNG HW-B650 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1 DTS

4.5

$397.99$367.99

Check Availability

Bose Smart Soundbar 300

4.3

$449.00

See at Amazon

Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2

3.9

$259.99

See at Amazon

Creative Stage V2 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer

4.1

$109.99$99.99

See at Amazon

Klipsch Cinema 600 Sound Bar 3.1 Home Theater System

4.3

$549.00$403.99

See at Amazon

VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar

4.6

$119.99$99.88

See at Amazon

Sonos Playbar - Sound Bar

4.6

$599.00$349.99

See at Amazon

It’s expensive to be a high-end gamer in 2023. You have to buy a console, your yearly subscription, expensive games, and all of the accessories.

But that only gets you the basic requirements. Once you start talking TVs and audio, you’re getting in over your head.

We’re here to help alleviate a small portion of that right now. We’ve compiled the best affordable soundbars for your Xbox Series X that you can buy today.

Why should I get an affordable soundbar?

Most sound systems are bulky and don’t leave space for anything else. Soundbars are a fantastic way to upgrade your TV’s audio without taking up much room.

Not only will it enhance any shows or movies that you want to watch, the built-in audio on TVs for gaming just kind of sucks to begin with. It’s time to hear what the game developers really intended for you to hear.

To keep your bank account from being angry, we’re looking at nothing over $499.99. That might seem like a lot, but soundbars can get way more expensive than that.

Don’t worry, though. We’re keeping your budget in mind here with more affordable soundbars than not. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Razer Leviathan V2

The Razer Leviathan line shows up on these types of lists nearly every time. We’re including it because of its versatility with both PC and mobile devices and the rad RGB Chroma lighting.

It also works great for the Xbox Series X, even though it isn’t actually designed for console gaming. It’s actually designed for a PC.

Utilizing this soundbar for your Xbox would mean plugging it through whatever monitor or TV you’re using to play on, just like most options on this list.

It has THX Spatial Audio, offering 7.1 surround sound, which the Xbox can take advantage of. But, as mentioned, you’re not directly connecting to the console itself.

The original Leviathan model rated 4.3 on Best Buy’s website. The newer V2 model sits at the same 4.3 ratings, making this a solid option. It’s a great “bang for your buck” system.

Razer Leviathan V2: Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar with Subwoofer

4.3

$249.99 $202.99

Experience audio excellence with the Razer Leviathan V2 Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar and Subwoofer. Equipped with 2 full-range drivers and a down-firing subwoofer, it delivers high-fidelity sound.

What We Like:

• Impressive Audio Performance: Equipped with full-range drivers and a powerful subwoofer, delivering rich and full-range sound for an immersive gaming and entertainment experience.
• THX Spatial Audio: Enjoy advanced 7.1 surround sound that provides pinpoint accuracy, enhancing realism and immersion in movies, games, and music.
• Compact Design: Fits neatly under your monitor, minimizing clutter on your desktop while providing clear, unobstructed audio.
• Bluetooth 5.2 Connectivity: Seamlessly switch between devices with low-latency Bluetooth connection, and manage multiple pairings easily through the Razer Audio App.
• Dynamic Lighting: Powered by Razer Chroma, featuring 18 customizable lighting zones that synchronize with your gaming setup for a captivating visual experience.

Check Availability See at Best Buy

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 10:58 pm GMT

Samsung – HW-B650/ZA

For better or worse, Samsung generally makes notable tech pieces. Their soundbars tend to be hit-or-miss. But, the moderately priced HW-B650/ZA is sitting at a 4.6-star rating on the Samsung website with well over 1,000 reviews.

Since the Xbox Series X offers Dolby Digital 5.1, this Samsung soundbar feels like it was designed with modern consoles more in mind. With a “Game Mode” built-in, this affordable soundbar may be one of your best options on this list.

SAMSUNG HW-B650 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1 DTS

4.5

$397.99 $367.99

The SAMSUNG HW-B650 3.1ch Soundbar enriches your audio experience with Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS Virtual:X, immersing you in multi-directional sound. Elevate dialogue clarity with the built-in center speaker and intensify your entertainment with the included subwoofer's powerful bass.

What We Like:

• Captivating Multi-Directional Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS Virtual:X immerse you in a dynamic audio experience.
• Enhanced Dialogue Clarity: The built-in center speaker ensures clear and impactful dialogue.
• Powerful Bass Boost: Elevate your entertainment with a touch of a button for intensified bass.
• Cinematic Intensity: The included subwoofer adds depth and vibrancy to action-packed scenes.
• Optimized Audio: Adaptive Sound Lite technology delivers enhanced voice clarity for favorite video content.

Check Availability See at Samsung

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 10:58 pm GMT

Bose Smart Soundbar 300

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 brings the quality that Bose is known for along with it. If you ask any audiophile, Bose will be on their list.

This soundbar may be higher on our pricing. But it’s sleek and can also be mounted on a wall. Like most others, it also offers Spotify and Apple AirPlay 2 connection.

If you want to connect it through the television, you can, with the optical cable. But it also offers HDMI connectivity as well.

The great part about this one is that it’s compatible to hook up with the Bose Bass Module 500 and 700, the Bose Surround Speakers, and the Bose Surround Speakers 700.

Seriously, it’s like the sexiest audio Megazord you can put together. Or it works as a stand-alone beast too. It sits at 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with over 2,000 reviews, which totally makes sense.

Bose Smart Soundbar 300

4.3

$449.00

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 redefines your entertainment experience. Delivering spacious sound, rich bass, and exceptional clarity through 5 full-range drivers, it's perfect for TV, movies, and games. With built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, hands-free control is seamless.

What We Like:

• Exceptional Audio Quality: Spacious sound, clear dialogue, and rich bass create an immersive experience.
• Enhanced TV Control: Bose Voice for Video technology expands Alexa capabilities, managing soundbar and devices.
• Versatile Connectivity: Stream wirelessly via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Spotify Connect.
• Sleek Design: Slim profile and flexible placement enhance any space.
• Expandable Ecosystem: Pair with other Bose products for multiroom listening or add-ons.
• Easy Setup: Guided installation through the Bose Music app.
• Voice Pickup Technology: Noise-rejecting microphones capture clear voice commands.

See at Amazon See at Lenovo

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:02 pm GMT

Panasonic SoundSlayer

This 2.1-channel Panasonic SoundSlayer was designed with gaming in mind.

Panasonic partnered with Square Enix as part of their “features” to make a speaker optimized for both games and movies.

A discontinued version of this affordable soundbar even has the Final Fantasy XIV logo plastered all over it. Three gaming modes come equipped with the robust lineup of modes it already packs.

These include RPG mode, First Person Shooter mode, and Voice mode. Considering it was built with Final Fantasy in mind, these modes make sense. This Panasonic sits at a nice 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon and seems to go on sale occasionally.

Panasonic SoundSlayer Dolby Atmos Soundbar

4.5

$297.00 $249.00

The Panasonic SoundSlayer Dolby Atmos Soundbar redefines home audio. Experience cinematic 3D sound realism through Dolby Atmos and DTS technology, immersing you in a world of detail and depth. Enjoy high-definition 4K content without image quality loss and optimize your experience with customizable sound settings.

What We Like:

• Cinematic Realism: Revolutionary Dolby Atmos and DTS technology deliver 3D sound with astonishing detail and depth, enhancing movies and TV shows.
• Mind-Blowing Sound: Compact design partnered with Final Fantasy XIV (FFIXV) Online sound team for immersive audio in movies, music, and games.
• Preserved Image Quality: High-definition 4K content with zero loss in image quality through 2.1 Channel 3-Way Speaker System and 4K HDR passthrough.
• Customizable Sound: Tailor your experience with dedicated modes for movies, music, and gaming genres, enhancing intensity and realism.
• Seamless Connectivity: Connect to TV, Blu-ray player, PC, USB hard disk, or smart devices via HDMI and Bluetooth. Included remote for easy control.
• Elevated Gaming: Experience RPG, FPS, or Voice Mode for different game styles, immersing you further into the virtual world.

See at Amazon See at BestBuy

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:04 pm GMT

Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2

Creative Sound looked at the Razer Leviathan on this list and said, “bet.” This 5.1 channel surround sound, Dolby Audio, RGB lit soundbar is designed for gamers, through and through.

This one is one of the only soundbars on this list to boast being able to connect to all of the current generation consoles.

The Katana V2 also offers enhanced sound with your headphones, specifically for gaming. The “Super X-Fi” options are for action games that require listening to gunshots and footsteps.

And yes, the Katana has fully customizable RGB lighting with programmable settings. This affordable soundbar is rocking a 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, making it one of the highest rated on this entire list.

Compared to the Razer Leviathan, it is slightly bulkier and only offers 5.1 surround sound, unlike the Razer’s 7.1 surround sound.

However, the Katana has more connectivity options and is designed for consoles, including our Xbox Series X via HDMI.

Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2

3.9

$259.99

The Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2X offers powerful audio in a compact package. With tri-amplified amps and a proprietary DSP chip, it delivers stunning clarity. The discreet subwoofer, 40% smaller than the Katana V2, suits smaller rooms without compromising quality. Experience immersive 5.1 channel playback, up to 180W peak power, and Dolby Audio certification.

What We Like:

• Powerful Audio: Tri-amplified amps and proprietary DSP chip deliver clarity.
• Compact Subwoofer: 40% smaller than Katana V2, ideal for smaller rooms.
• Immersive Playback: 5.1 channel with up to 180W peak power, Dolby Audio certification.
• Super X-Fi Technology: Personalize headphone experience for realism.
• SXFI Battle Mode: Accurately pinpoint enemy locations in FPS games.
• Versatile Connectivity: USB, HDMI ARC, optical port, wireless Bluetooth 5.0.
• Built-in Microphone: Conduct calls directly from the soundbar.
• Customizable Controls: Access functions through remote buttons, fine-tune audio with Sound Blaster's technologies, RGB presets, and EQ settings.

See at Amazon See at Best Buy

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:11 pm GMT

Creative Stage V2 ($109.99)

Coming in at a 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon, the Creative Stage V2 is a cheap option for anyone looking to stay on a hardcore budget while enjoying the audio of their TV. Running a 2.1 system, you get what you pay for.

It’s not designed with gaming as the priority, but it rates well among gamers. You’ll just have to plug it into the TV instead of the Xbox.

In any case, it’s the most affordable soundbar on this list and isn’t half bad. Also, it comes with a remote. There are soundbars on this list that are double to triple this price that doesn’t even come with a remote.

Creative Stage V2 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer

4.1

$109.99 $99.99

Experience enhanced vocal clarity and immersive surround sound with Clear Dialog and Surround technologies powered by Sound Blaster expertise. Creative Stage V2's 2.1 speaker system boasts custom-tuned mid-range drivers and a powerful subwoofer for captivating audio.

What We Like:

• Enhanced Audio Experience: Clear Dialog and Surround technologies provide improved vocal intelligibility and wider surround sound, delivering a cinematic experience at home.
• Immersive Sound: Custom-tuned mid-range drivers and a powerful subwoofer create captivating, room-filling audio with deep bass.
• Versatile Connectivity: TV ARC, optical, AUX, Bluetooth, and USB audio options make it a comprehensive audio entertainment system for various devices.
• Convenient Controls: The included remote allows easy playback control, treble and bass adjustment, audio mode selection, and input switching.
• - Sleek Design: Minimalist and wall-mountable, the Creative Stage V2 complements your TV and interior design seamlessly, enhancing your entertainment without distraction.

See at Amazon See at B&H

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:14 pm GMT

Klipsch Cinema 600 ($549)

This Klipsch Cinema is the priciest soundbar on this list. But, as mentioned, they get a heck of a lot more expensive than this. This beast is at a 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon with over 2,600 reviews, so you know it’ll be good.

Honestly, you’re paying for the length of this thing. It’s the longest piece of tech on this list at 45 inches long. That’s nearly four feet for those bad at math.

It may only have a 3.1 system built in, but it virtualizes as 5.1. It also blasts with a 600W peak power.

The top question about it on Amazon is, “How do you unpack this product?” The answer given is “Like a kid on Christmas morning.” If you want power, you have to pay for power. This Klipsch will do the trick.

Klipsch Cinema 600 Sound Bar 3.1 Home Theater System

4.3

$549.00 $403.99

The Klipsch Cinema 600 3.1 Sound Bar offers a cinematic experience. With a wireless 10" subwoofer, dedicated center channel speaker for enhanced vocals, and horn-loaded tweeters, it delivers dynamic power and clarity. Enjoy easy setup, custom-tuned dialog modes, and a motion-sensing remote for immersive sound.

What We Like:

• Cinematic Audio: Wireless 10" subwoofer, dedicated center channel, and horn-loaded tweeters provide dynamic power and clarity, reminiscent of legendary cinema speakers.
• Effortless Setup: Plug-and-play with included HDMI cable (or optical), HDMI-ARC for single remote control, and easy connection to the wireless subwoofer.
• Enhanced Dialog: Custom-tuned dialog modes optimize EQ settings for crisp, clear, and intelligible sound, ensuring every word is heard.
• Intuitive Control: Motion-sensing remote adjusts subwoofer level, surround level, and sound mode for a personalized listening experience.
• Powerful Subwoofer: The largest in its class, the 10" wireless subwoofer delivers impactful sound with minimal latency, perfect for any location.
• Dolby Audio®: Built-in Dolby Audio® enhances your audio experience, bringing cinematic quality to your home entertainment.

See at Amazon See at Best Buy

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:15 pm GMT

VIZIO V-Series 2.0 ($119.99)

We promised some cheaper alternatives than the pricier superpowers from Klipsch and Bose. Enter: VIZIO V-Series 2.0.

For being one of the cheapest soundbars that work, it’s running with a 4.5 out of 5 on Best Buy. If you aren’t looking for a 45-inch baseball bat like the one from Klipsch, you’re in luck here.

The VIZIO doesn’t have a subwoofer, only offering a 2.0 channel system using DTS Virtual: X. But, if you’re looking for something that works without breaking the bank, the V-Series will get you gaming on a budget.

VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar

4.6

$119.99 $99.88

The VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar delivers enhanced audio with its sleek design and DTS Virtual:X technology, providing room-filling virtualized sound. Full-range speakers, wide frequency response, and impressive loudness ensure coherent, clear, and dynamic audio.

What We Like:

• Sleek and Versatile Design: The compact all-black finish with an easy-to-clean textured surface complements small to medium-sized rooms.
• Immersive Sound: DTS Virtual:X technology delivers room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized sound.
• Clear and Coherent Audio: 2 full-range speakers provide brilliant clarity and coherent sound for an immersive experience.
• Wide Frequency Response: A natural 70Hz – 20kHz frequency response captures the artist's intended audio details.
• Remarkable Loudness: With 95dB loudness, experience dynamic, room-shaking sound with minimal distortion or compression.

See at Amazon See at Best Buy

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:17 pm GMT

Sonos Playbar ($489.99)

Sonos is another brand that shows up on every list of audiophiles. This soundbar, like the Bose, hooks up with your other Sonos equipment like a melodic Voltron.

It sounds great as a stand-alone, but the more you add, such as the separate subwoofer, the higher quality you get.

The Sonos Playbar can be mounted and will tune itself based on necessity. They also boast that Oscar-winning sound engineers helped tune the system. So, that’s cool too.

Of course, it’s a 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with nearly 2,000 ratings. If you’re looking for some of the highest quality sounds without spending a grand on a single item, Sonos is the way to go.

If you want to spend a grand, the good news is that they have many options to help you do that.

Sonos Playbar - Sound Bar

4.6

$599.00 $349.99

The Sonos Playbar, a mountable soundbar, enriches your TV, movie, and music experience. Crisp dialogue and impressive bass span the room. Control via Sonos app, remote, and more. Whether wall-mounted or on a stand, Playbar self-tunes for optimal sound. It's tuned by Oscar-winning engineers to emphasize human voices, ensuring an engaging storytelling experience.

What We Like:

• Versatile Sound Enhancement: The Sonos Playbar elevates TV, movie, and music experiences with its mountable design and impressive bass.
• Intuitive Control: Manage Playbar effortlessly through the Sonos app, remote control, and more, offering convenience and flexibility.
• Adaptive Sound: Whether wall-mounted or on a stand, Playbar automatically optimizes its audio for the best possible sound in any setup.
• Enhanced Dialogue: Tuned by Oscar-winning sound engineers, Playbar emphasizes human voices, ensuring captivating storytelling.
• Whole-Home Sound System: Seamlessly connect Sonos speakers across different rooms via WiFi, creating a unified home sound system that brings everyone together.

See at Amazon See at Sonos

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/08/2023 11:26 pm GMT

Final thoughts

Once you get your soundbar, you need to know the best way to hook it up to your Xbox Series X. The newest systems don’t have optical ports, so you must buy accordingly and know what your TV offers.

If you’re looking for more options, you can see our slightly older thoughts about soundbars for gaming here. You might find something you like there if you’re looking for something a little more substantial.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Budget-friendly expandable storage cards are coming to Xbox
• How to connect a soundbar to your Xbox Series X
• The best Xbox controllers
• The best JBL speakers (2023)

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post The best soundbars for Xbox Series X under $500 (2023) appeared first on KnowTechie.

This epic Western adventure, previously confined to PC, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms, is ready to blaze a trail on the Switch, bringing its immersive narrative and gameplay to a whole new audience.

According to Rockstar Games, the Nintendo Switch version of Red Dead Redemption is set to include the original game and its zombie-horror companion, “Undead Nightmare.”

This dual package promises to deliver the full experience of the critically acclaimed game, introducing both new players and original fans to the sprawling expanses of the American West and Mexico.

John Marston rides again

The narrative of “Red Dead Redemption” follows the story of former outlaw John Marston, a character who has captivated gamers with his quest for redemption.

The game’s move to the Nintendo Switch allows a fresh wave of gamers to experience Marston’s journey, tracking down the notorious Van der Linde Gang in a bid to save his family.

A mixed reception

However, not all reactions to the news have been positive. Kotaku points out that the port won’t include any changes to the underlying game nor support multiplayer, leaving some fans disappointed.

Despite these drawbacks, the excitement around the game’s arrival on the Nintendo Switch is palpable.

A New Era for Red Dead Redemption

This is a significant milestone for Red Dead Redemption.

The game’s arrival on the Nintendo Switch marks a new chapter in its history, potentially opening the door for future Rockstar Games titles to make the leap to the platform.

With the game set for release on August 17 and physical copies hitting the shelves on October 13, it’s time to saddle up for a wild ride in the world of Red Dead Redemption.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Samsung accidentally confirms Galaxy Tab S9 FE series
• Galaxy Tab S9 FE leak reveals an impressive new budget tablet
• Samsung Galaxy Smart Tag 2 redesign appears in FCC listing
• New Samsung Galaxy S23 FE leak points at upgraded camera specs

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Red Dead Redemption rides its way onto the Nintendo Switch appeared first on KnowTechie.

It is unexpectedly growing, and every big brand is developing its own iteration of the product in a desperate attempt to grab hold of the market. The most notable recent addition is ASUS’s ROG Ally.

It appears that Chinese tech giant Lenovo is working on a handheld gaming device, trying to grab a piece of the pie.

Lenovo Legion Go — a gaming handheld with an 8-inch display 

According to Windows Central, a so-called “Lenovo Legion Go” could be in the works. Legion is a gaming-focused sub-brand of Lenovo.

According to the rumor, Lenovo is developing a gaming handheld device under the Legion” banner featuring an 8-inch display.

In other words, Lenovo’s upcoming device could have a larger display compared to the 7-inch display available on the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally.

Lenovo Legion Go could also sport the new AMD Ryzen Phoenix processor, making it more powerful than ROG Ally. However, at this point, it’s all just speculation, and we don’t have any concrete information about the Lenovo Legion Go. 

But remember that this is the first time we heard that Lenovo is working on a gaming handheld.

Years ago, Lenovo was rumored to work on an Android-powered gaming handheld, which never came to light. So, it is totally possible the Lenovo Legion Go may never become a reality. 

Given the lack of information about the device, we are unlikely to see it launch this year. However, if you want to purchase a gaming handheld in 2023, the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally are your best bet.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Asus ROG Ally gunning for Steam Deck in portable gaming war
• Valve plans screen and battery improvements on Steam Deck 2
• You can now buy the Asus ROG Ally at Best Buy, but should you?
• Razer reveals its new $399 handheld cloud gaming system

The post Lenovo is reportedly cooking up a handheld gaming beast appeared first on KnowTechie.