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Is There A Way To Bring Consoles To The Forefront of Gaming in India After Mobile Gaming’s Dominance in 2020?

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After the times of the PlayStation 2 and the PSP, consoles have waned in popularity year after year in India. Mobile gaming, however, has still brought gaming to the masses in droves. With the next generation of consoles around the corner, can they make some changes in this trend, buck it, and bring consoles back on everyone’s minds again?

Gaming in India has a lot of societal “weight” all around it. It also is something select people can enjoy fully. Hurdles like income limitations, high pricing, poor marketing and sub-par availability have hounded the landscape here quite heavily. Some of these problems have been much subdued, but many haven’t done that so well. We explore some of these events, facts and arguments in this piece. These and also how mobile gaming has come to the fore, have a role to play in the task the new consoles have ahead of them.

Genesis

The liberalisation of the Indian economy in 1991 brought many foreign companies to the market without the barriers they had to steer through. Still, there was a high import duty on anything eligible. The first attempts at selling a console in India at a price that would be accessible for, was when Sega tried to enter the market while partnering with a liquor manufacturer, Shaw Wallace, to sell the Sega Genesis. It was not cheap back then, even with the circumvention of the import duties, which were an exorbitant 80% of the MSRP of the $189 launch price of the Japanese console. At Rs. 18,000, it was not at all cheap, but it still was a release, which was a start.

Sega Genesis Model 2 (NA)
The Sega Genesis, Sega’s attempt at entering India post-1991. (Image courtesy of: Evan Amos)

Sega’s efforts only diversified in the future, until the failure of the Sega Dreamcast against the PlayStation 2 saw its worldwide withdrawal from the console hardware market. Games such as Virtua Cop 2 and Daytona USA being classics many of us may remember playing, were all efforts of Sega. A partnership between them and Mahindra and Mahindra to create arcade entertainment centres in Indian cities also came along. It is unknown what fate that deal had, but we still got those games at least. However, the fifth-generation Sega offering, the Saturn, never caught on well enough because of the already high MSRP of the console at that time, India and overseas. It eventually lead to a lull in the home console market for the time being, because Nintendo and Sony did not have any interest in the Indian market at that time either. Nintendo still does not, but the latter has since changed that position for the better, as we may well know.

High Price, Low Interest – The Consumer and The Manufacturer

It was until after the release of its successor, in other regions, that the PlayStation, in its smaller PSone avatar, saw a launch in India. Of course, a limited release, but again, a release nonetheless, unlike Sega who quit console making completely after the Dreamcast’s failure. Sales numbers would be a real challenge to provide without connections with Sony themselves, but the sales would’ve been in the thousands at best. It’s hard even to find the price they were being sold at! But as a lot of people who have lived through the early 2000s would know, Sony was indeed the dominant player for gaming in India. Except for generic models that had hardware similar to old Nintendo and Sega consoles, like Mitashi consoles and similar. And since then, Sony has been at the front of pretty much all progress the console industry has made for gaming in India, being joined by Microsoft in just the past decade.

Sony PSone
Sony’s PSone came to India in around 2000, while the PS2 was just about to launch in other regions (Image Courtesy: Evan Amos)

But any advancements the PlayStation 2 tried to make with its convincing selling price, an extensive collection of games and relative ubiquity were still only enough to sell the console itself. It did not affect the sales of any other consoles related to it, like the PlayStation 3 (the few units that were on Indian shelves), Nintendo Wii or the Xbox 360. Even PlayStation 2’s original games didn’t see units flying off their shelves. The newer consoles saw some interest, but nothing came close to the PlayStation 2, even when it was a generation older and unable to be relevantly compared with the competition. In this manner, the console market never really “got going” without the PS2 to be at the front. And gaming in India is no less expensive even now.

The Importance of the PlayStation 2 for Gaming in India

Sony PlayStation 2, India's best-selling console
Sony’s PlayStation 2 sold the best in India of all gaming consoles, and this is its most recognisable iteration: the Slim PS2.

It was the time of the PlayStation 2 when India got the most attention from console makers. A lot of readers here may remember the ads on Desi Adda, and a series of games made around India, for example, the Street Cricket games. These games were sold specifically in the Indian market and were produced by Sony themselves. That period, from around late 2008 to the arrival of the PS4 and the subsequent discontinuation of the PS2 and PS3 can be considered as the time when India had the most attention it ever had from console makers. This was with titles for Indian markets being bundled with consoles, & more importantly, a PlayStation 2 that at its lowest was available for just 5,499 INR with two free games with it.

The low price, the time at which the PS2 arrived, and the way Sony was handling the Indian market all combined were the catalysts for elevating the PS2’s status in its last stages to such a level. The PS2 was already quite common in the mid-2000s in India when it was available for a price of around 10,000 INR. The cost of getting games was subsidised by the large modding community and their workarounds, which was helpful for PS2’s sales but didn’t help the sales of original titles as much. Sony had put a platform and its brand name in many homes and small gaming cafes. People with little knowledge of the alternatives to Sony’s product had one as well, and that was a great help for Sony’s operations in India.

Desi Adda games from 2009 to 2011
Some Desi Adda games from the time, starting with Hanuman: Boy Warrior and the Street Cricket series, amongst others

But the PlayStation 2, despite how good it was for the brand and Sony, was still a gadget that was getting close to a decade in age. Not many developers found much incentive in keeping on making games for it over its successor and its competition. So after the Desi Adda series of games moved to the PS3 in the days of its Super Slim variant, the series as a whole fell out of favour as well as the console itself. The PS2 was finally discontinued in 2013 and could be found at retailers until around two years after the fact. The PS3 was not able to enjoy the same amount of attention in its later years because of its initial lukewarm reception, stricter competition from Xbox 360 and a comparatively higher price (16,500 INR at its lowest) at that time. And thus, Desi Adda was abandoned, seemingly forever.

Smartphones and Decline

The newer consoles, the PlayStation 4 and the Xbox One came to the market around when smartphones were getting into everybody’s hands.

Mobile gaming at that time, and even now in many instances, is considered a different niche: A separate genre of gaming, which is no direct replacement for “traditional” console and PC gaming. However, with the rise of mobile gaming, particularly in the past three years, the need for a separate gadget for gaming has been seemingly eliminated. It is a given that the experience on console is levels above a mobile phone and a significant point of consideration, but the price argument is necessary to be considered. The Xbox Series S, seemingly the cheapest of the ninth-generation consoles will cost Indians 35,000 INR. At the same time, a decent phone can cost anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 INR and do much more than just game, and this is an essential fact for the future of gaming in India/

Chinese app ban
We all know what this is. It may be banned, but it has had an immense impact on gaming in India, and a far bigger reach than any other endeavours in gaming ever had.

This combination of ubiquity, utility and portability helps mobiles a lot better, than the decidedly inferior experience it provides one with, can hurt them. The arrival of mobile gaming on the scene and the gradual push towards obscurity of consoles and PC gaming in many areas leaves the upcoming consoles at a tricky spot. They have two challenges to face: The hardware one: That mobile gaming is established better just because the hardware for it is present with everyone.

The other challenge being a process of gaining (back, in the case of PlayStation) the mind-share of gaming in India and the user base. Most of the allocations for India will be scooped up by enthusiasts who maybe already have the older consoles of the brand and are looking to upgrade, for example. The Series X is already out of its allocated pre-orders, which could suggest a minuscule allocation of units in the first place, all pre-ordered by people who were going to buy it anyway before it was announced. With close to zero targeted marketing for India, they are not moving any units from people who are already into mobile gaming, and thus gaming in general and are looking for the next level in gaming experiences.

Signs of Progress, Though?

The market for gaming in India and consoles seems to be in a situation similar to what the Google Pixel was in 2018-19. The manufacturers can either choose to abandon the market entirely and not release the product just to sell to a few people, thereby making no dents in the industry because of how different your product is to the market. This happened with the Pixel 4; it saw no release in India. Or, they can still push towards some presence in the market, with a proper strategy they may be better in devising. And that happened with the Pixel 3a which did see a release in India. Still not a hit, though, but an attempt to have a foot in the door from the manufacturer nonetheless. Something like that, but from Sony and Microsoft.

One such thing to look forward to is Xbox Game Pass. It is an exciting proposition for anyone looking to get into console games, as it will take away the problem for paying per game and replace it with a more convenient subscription-based model. You still need the console itself first, of course. But the fact that Microsoft has this program available for India, with regional-normalised pricing is still something of a start. It is some form of commitment, and the model itself is very lucrative for someone looking for the console: Buy a Series S and game away.

Series S and Game Pass, for gaming in India
This combination may have potential in the Indian market. If Sony can be up to the task of providing competition as well.

In conclusion, having mobile gaming as direct competition and a hindrance in the industry has stagnated a lot of progress consoles could make into the mainstream after the decline of India-specific game development in the early 2010s. It also disincentivises the proliferation of regional pricing, which in turn helps make gaming inexpensive. Still, the ninth generation brings with it some promise that can change the landscape of console gaming in India somehow, but we will have to wait and see how that pans out in the long run.

Here are the latest technological advancements to look out for in 2023.

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As we head into 2023, we are on the cusp of some of the most exciting technological advancements in history. From self-driving cars to virtual reality, the world is about to be transformed in ways we never thought possible. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most anticipated technological advancements that are expected to be released in the coming year.

One of the most exciting areas of technological advancement is in the field of artificial intelligence. AI is already being used in a variety of industries, from healthcare to finance, and we can expect to see even more widespread use of this technology in the coming years. AI-powered assistants, in particular, are expected to become even more advanced and intuitive, making our lives easier and more efficient. In healthcare, AI-powered assistants are already being used to help doctors diagnose and treat patients more effectively. They can analyze medical data and provide personalized treatment recommendations based on a patient’s unique medical history. With the continued development of AI, we can expect to see even more powerful and accurate medical tools in the years to come.

Another area of technological advancement to keep an eye on is the development of 5G networks. With faster speeds and lower latency, 5G networks are expected to revolutionize the way we connect and communicate with each other. We can expect to see a wide range of new applications and services that take advantage of this technology, from virtual reality to remote surgery. The potential of 5G networks is not limited to just faster download speeds. It can also enable new technologies such as smart cities, where everything from traffic lights to streetlights are connected and can be controlled remotely. This can lead to more efficient and sustainable cities, reducing the carbon footprint and improving the quality of life for urban dwellers.

In addition to AI and 5G, we can also expect to see significant advancements in the field of quantum computing. This technology has the potential to solve some of the most complex problems in science and industry, from drug discovery to climate modelling. While quantum computing is still in its early stages, we can expect to see significant progress in the coming years. Quantum computing can also have a significant impact on the field of cybersecurity. It can help organizations detect and prevent cyber threats more effectively by providing advanced encryption algorithms that are virtually unbreakable. With the continued development of quantum computing, we can expect to see a safer and more secure digital world.

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Photo by Z z on Pexels.com

Of course, one of the most talked-about technological advancements in recent years has been the development of self-driving cars. While fully autonomous vehicles are still a few years away, we can expect to see significant progress in this area in 2023. Self-driving vehicles have the potential to significantly reduce accidents and traffic congestion, as well as provide mobility options for people who are unable to drive. In addition to the benefits of self-driving cars, there are also concerns about their impact on the job market. With the potential for truck drivers and delivery drivers to be replaced by autonomous vehicles, there may be significant job losses in these industries. Governments and businesses will need to develop strategies to address these potential challenges.

person sitting inside car
Photo by Roberto Nickson on Pexels.com

Another area of technological advancement that is gaining momentum is virtual reality. VR technology is already being used in a variety of industries, from gaming to education. In the coming years, we can expect to see even more advanced VR applications and devices that provide immersive and realistic experiences. Virtual reality can have a significant impact on the way we learn and work. It can provide realistic simulations that allow us to practice skills and scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. This can be particularly useful in industries such as healthcare and aviation, where mistakes can be costly or even life-threatening. As we look to the future, it’s clear that technology will continue to play an increasingly important role in our lives.

From AI and 5G to quantum computing and self-driving cars, the advancements we are seeing are truly awe-inspiring. While there are certainly challenges and risks associated with these technologies, we can be optimistic about the positive impact they will have on our world. In conclusion, the technological advancements that are expected to be released in 2023 are truly groundbreaking. From AI and 5G to self-driving cars and virtual reality, we are on the verge of a new era of innovation and progress. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, we can look forward to a future that is brighter, safer, and more connected than ever before. With careful planning and responsible deployment, these technologies can be harnessed for the benefit of all humanity.

The most exciting slots to try in Spring 2023

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As the warmth of spring 2023 unfurls, a new season of gaming excitement follows close on its heels. In the rapidly evolving universe of online casinos, the upcoming spring season promises a bouquet of captivating games, each designed to infuse a new zest into your gaming experience. Engaging storylines, vibrant visuals, and innovative features have been crafted with precision, ensuring that the online slots of Spring 2023 are set to take the world of online gaming by storm.

Big Bass Bonanza: An Underwater Adventure

If you’re a fan of the tranquillity of the ocean and the thrill of fishing, Big Bass Bonanza from Pragmatic Play will be a delightful escape. The game is set against an exquisite underwater backdrop, teeming with vibrant fish and marine elements.

The game promises engaging gameplay with medium volatility, enhancing your chances of scoring a win. Unique bonus features such as extra spins and re-triggers amplify the excitement. Offering a maximum pay out of 2,100 times your bet, Big Bass Bonanza is the perfect spot to cast your line and reel in the winnings.

Sahara Riches: An Exotic Expedition

Next in line is Sahara Riches Cash Collect, an enthralling game designed to keep players engaged with its unique features. The thrill intensifies as money symbols land on the reels, with the Cash Collect icon acting as the final piece of this enticing puzzle.

Its captivating Arabian Nights theme beckons players to saddle up and journey across the dunes. Sahara Riches Cash Collect, with its intriguing gameplay, is certainly a must-try this spring.

Wolf Gold: Into the Wild

Prepare to journey into the heart of the American desert with Wolf Gold. The game’s reels and symbols are set against a backdrop reminiscent of Arizona, with symbols representing native fauna such as mustangs, eagles, buffaloes, cougars, and wolves.

Key symbols like the wolf wild and Sunset Scatter contribute to the game’s appeal, activating bonus spins and respin features for enhanced wins. Wolf Gold offers a comprehensive gaming experience that is not to be missed.

Bust the Bank: A High-Stakes Heist

Bust the Bank, another exciting addition, combines simple gameplay with enticing special features. The game offers a range of betting options, appealing to players with varying budgets.

Players can look forward to several bonus features, including a safe symbol that reveals coin prizes, a piggy bank bonus, and two robbers who can appear randomly to offer bonus prizes. While the game does not feature a progressive jackpot, the engaging gameplay and potential for big wins make it an exciting option for players.

Gates of Olympus: A Mythical Journey

Finally, Pragmatic Play presents Gates of Olympus, a slot game rich with unique features based on Greek Mythology. With an All Ways engine that disregards paylines, the game requires a minimum of 8 matching symbols on the reels for a payout. The game boasts tumble and multiplier features, promising potential returns of up to 500 times the initial bet. With a maximum win of 5000 times your stake on the line, Gates of Olympus offers an exhilarating gaming experience.

Final Thoughts

Spring 2023 promises many new and exciting slot games for online casino enthusiasts. With themes ranging from tranquil fishing expeditions to thrilling bank heists, these games offer a refreshing diversity that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, the spring lineup at online casino UK is sure to provide a memorable gaming experience.

Play-To-Earn Games: How Do They Work And How Do Players Make a Profit

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The gaming industry is one of the most successful worldwide, with a market value that is estimated to reach 365 billion USD in 2023. Since the 1990s, when video games became a more mainstream source of entertainment, players have engaged with games that encourage them to progress through challenging levels. Now, a new type of game seeks to revolutionise the industry by combining gamification with the possibility to make a profit.

What are pay-to-earn games?

As their name suggests, pay-to-earn games (also known as crypto games), are online games that allow players to earn rewards—typically small amounts of cryptocurrency, skins, and virtual land. In order to get these rewards, a player must complete various tasks, join special events,  battle other players, and progress through the game’s various levels.

Players can then sell and trade their rewards with their peers, which will help them rank higher on the live leaderboard and continue multiplying their earnings. It’s also possible to exchange the earned cryptocurrency with fiat money once its value increases over time or thanks to market trends.

Play-to-earn games benefit game creators as well. Every time the game is played, developers make a profit.

When it comes to developing a profitable play-to-earn game, developers can take two approaches. One of them is to create a game with its own native cryptocurrency in the form of tokens. While these tokens act similarly to the in-game currencies of traditional video games, they have real-world value. Another option is to rely on existing and familiar cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, etc.

What are NFT pay-to-earn games?

No discussion of pay-to-earn games is complete without mentioning NFTs. In short, NTFs (Non-Fungible Tokens), are digital tokens on the blockchain that represent a unique item, be it an image, music, or even a tweet. Because an NFT is “non-fungible”, it cannot be swapped identically for another token. For example, while you are able to trade 1 bitcoin for another bitcoin, this isn’t applicable to NFTs.

In NFT play-to-earn games, players can own characters or avatars, which are NFTs themselves. If the game were to shut down or cease to exist for whatever reason, that NFT will remain the player’s property.

Throughout these games like Axie Infinity, a player is progressively rewarded with tokens and a few NFTs on occasion. In games such as CryptoKitties, rather than collecting tokens, the player can earn NFTs that represent collectible items.

Can players make a profit?

Play-to-earn games have become popular ways to have fun while making a profit. However, the amount of money a player can earn will largely depend on the specific game mechanics and market demand, which all vary from game to game. In general, the money comes from other users who collect NFTs or use the cryptocurrency utilised in the game. To cash out, a player must sell the products on the market or trade them.

Of course, earning crypto tokens or NFTs isn’t as easy as it might seem. Similar to games such as Aviator, there’s an element of chance to them. The more players engage with a particular game, the more likely they are to get tokens or earn NFTs, which are more chance-based.

Popular pay-to-earn games

Axie Infinity occupies a spot in almost every pay-to-earn game ranking. Players can collect creatures known as “axies”. It’s possible to breed axies with other axies or make them battle each other to earn crypto tokens called “smooth love potions” or simply SLP.

Similarly to Axie Infinity, CryptoKitties allows players to deal with creatures—only it is cats with unique traits that distinguish them from the rest. This Ethereum-based blockchain game allows players to buy, collect, breed, and sell their virtual animals.

Yet another popular game is Decentraland, which gives players access to a 3D world where they can purchase virtual land. The land can be worked on, rented, or sold to other players in exchange for the MANA cryptocurrency.

To conclude

While most pay-to-earn games are in the early development stages, their popularity will likely continue soaring with the proliferation of cryptocurrency and NFTs. Axie Infinity, CryptoKitties, and Decentraland are some of the games that are providing both a source of entertainment and the opportunity of making a profit.

A selection of the best cricket betting apps in India│Top 2023

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Many betting sites offer their players the best cricket betting apps in 2023. With them, you get to bet from anywhere in the world at any time.  Mobile applications for sports betting can be downloaded for free by both Android and iOS users – they are maximally adapted to the screen of your device and, at the same time, contain a number of useful functions. In this article, we will tell you more about the best cricket betting apps in India, the pros and cons of using them in the country.

Top 10 mobile apps

Not all betting apps can be trusted. There are many brands with dubious reputation, which, for example, encounter problems with bonuses accrual, withdrawal of funds, long response time customer support or unstable operation of the application in general. 

To prevent you from getting in such situations, we have compiled best cricket betting apps:

  • Parimatch
  • Melbet
  • 1win
  • Bluechip
  • 888starz
  • Mostbet
  • 1xbet
  • Indiabet
  • 4Rabet
  • Pin-Up

Parimatch App

Parimatch offers a quality solution for betting on cricket from your phone – a fast and convenient sports betting app. You can download the app for Android and iOS from Parimatch website. 

The app makes it easy to communicate with support operators. Users learn about the nuances of bets, financial transactions and other important things in the chat. Note that players are available about 15 payment methods with a minimum deposit of only 200 INR.

Melbet App

One of the few best cricket betting apps that has exotic sports such as hunting and fishing in addition to the usual cricket. In the main menu, players will find promotions for both beginners and more experienced players. If you apply Melbet promo code in the app, it will open access to all bonuses. 

According to the reviews of many customers, the bet in the application is fixed very quickly. Bets are also accepted in rupees. Looking for events is very easy if you use the filter. It is also convenient that the app has analytical information about specific events and recommendations for betting. The information will be useful to all bettors.

1win App

1win is often rated as the best betting app in India. In comparison with the applications of other operators, it has a rich choice of settings and functions. Users can change the type of odds, customize the type of spreads and choose the payment system for settlements.

Since the app 1win is frequently updated, the betting line is now as adapted as possible to the needs of players. The spreadsheets have links to all types of markers, recent results and opponent statistics. Making bets in the mobile app 1win is comfortable, even on systems. Everything is intuitive even for newbies for which, by the way, there is a welcome bonus of 500%. 

Bluechip App

Not all mobile applications have informative statistics sections. Bluechip has one. Players learn not only about the latest cricket team results, but also about performance, information about the main squads and the tournament grid. There are 1000+ daily available for betting. Results are available both in progress of matches, as well as for the past days and even week. Also available on Bluechip is a betting exchange for sports and other events where players form odds. There is support in Hindi.

888starz App

Undoubtedly one of the best cricket betting apps in india. Understand the menu, and the main sections of 888starz can be understood in the first 5 minutes of use. Players can easily register and perform financial transactions in Indian rupees. You can find the link to the installation file by contacting the support operator in the chat after registration. Usually within 5 minutes, users get the installation file for Android and iOS.

Mostbet App

The operator has been working since 2009, which shows its reputation. All users of the Mostbet mobile app are offered bonuses. Among them is a welcome reward of 25,000 INR for newcomers. For payments, such well-known systems as PayTM and UPI are available. The minimum deposit is only 300 rupees.

1xbet App

For new players, 1xbet offers a welcome package of 100% up to 10,000 INR. With one or two clicks, you can select match and sports, including cricket. Players have access to an event filter with betting groups and odds. In the settings, you can specify the type of odds and language (there are Hindi and English). If you choose the best betting apps by interface and betting format, 1xbet is one of them. Betting on cricket here is easy and convenient.

Indiabet App

If you’re looking for modern mobile cricket betting apps, check out Indiabet. There are two versions available to players – iOS and Android. Links to the apps are on the mobile version page and on the main site. Since this is a local operator, there is a full-fledged Hindi language helpdesk as well as top payment systems PayTM and UPI.

4Rabet App

Another representative of the local market in India. Among others stands out favorably with the increased bonus of 200% on the first deposit. All bets from the 4Rabet website are available in the mobile app. When you add the odds to the coupon, a choice of betting types appears. The coupon of the mobile app has buttons that indicate the amounts of bets, which reduces the time when registering a bet. The “Quick bet” option is also available to players.

Pin-Up App

Pin-Up is considered one of the leading online cricket betting apps in terms of transactions. The financial transactions here are almost perfect. Deposits (minimum 100 INR) and withdrawals are available to payment systems in different currencies. With the help of the application, customers are always quick to transfer the necessary sums. Pin-Up also offers a welcome bonus of up to Rs 25,000.

Find Your Favorite Slots Games

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Slots are a huge part of the gambling industry. Slots are popular because they’re easy to learn and fun to play. Online slots come in all different shapes and sizes. Never accept a bonus without reading the terms and conditions first. A good online casino will have everything you want from a slot’s site.

Slots are a huge part of the gambling industry

Slots are a huge part of the gambling industry, and they’re easy to play. They’re available at many different casinos around the world, so you can find them wherever you go. If you’re looking for something fun and exciting that doesn’t require much skill or knowledge to win money with, slots are a great option!

Easy to learn and fun to play

You don’t need any special skills or knowledge to start playing slots, but you do need a little bit of money in your bankroll. The amount you’ll spend depends on how much time you want to spend playing and which machines (or “slots”) you choose, but it’s usually not too much more than $20 per hour if you stick with basic machines at casinos or racetracks.

Availability on both desktop and mobile devices

If you’re looking to play slot games, it’s important that they’re available on both desktop and mobile devices. Lots of people play on their phones–and others only have access to a computer at work or school. No matter what type of device you use, make sure that the game will be playable on both platforms before clicking “Play Now”.

Play for free as well as for real money

There are many reasons why players should be able to play for free. One of the most important is that it helps you learn the game and get a feel for how it works. If you’re new to slots, then this is especially important because there are so many different types of games out there. You’ll want to make sure that what you’re learning is right for your preferences before spending any money on it.

Another reason people enjoy playing free games is that they’re just plain fun! There’s nothing wrong with wanting something entertaining while also enjoying some excitement or risk-taking–and luckily, there are plenty of options available online today where users can do just that without having to spend any actual money at all (though if they do want something more substantial than just simple entertainment value out of their experience then there are plenty more ways besides just playing through one site).

As you may have noticed, there are many different kinds of slots. Some are more complex than others while some are simpler and some are just plain fun or exciting to play.

You’ll find that online slots come in all shapes and sizes which makes it easy for you to find the one that fits your fancy!

Never accept a bonus without reading the terms and conditions first

The terms and conditions of a bonus are often the most important part of it. They’re what tells you what you can and can’t do with your money, how long you have to play before withdrawing it, and more importantly, whether or not the bonus is available for your favorite game.

When reading through a casino’s terms and conditions for a sign-up bonus, look out for these key points:

  • Read through all of the information carefully so that you understand exactly what you need to do in order to qualify for this offer.
  • Make sure that the bonus is available on your preferred game type (i.e., slots). For example, some casinos offer bonuses only on specific slot machines while others may have no restrictions at all–so make sure yours fits into one category or another before signing up!
  • Check out any restrictions placed on your account as well; some casinos may limit how much money players can withdraw per day/week/month depending on their age or location so be aware if there are any limitations here too!

Understand the return to a player percentage before playing

  • Return to player percentage (RTP) is the amount of money that you can expect to win back on a slot machine. It’s usually expressed as a percentage, and it tells you how much of your bet will be returned in payouts.
  • You can calculate this by dividing the total amount paid out by all players by the total number of bets made on that game or slot machine. For example, if there were 100 spins played at an online casino with an RTP of 95%, then 95% x 100 = 95 spins paid out $100 each time they hit a winning combination–$9500 total earnings divided by 100 total spins equals an average payout rate of 95%.
  • Most online slots games have an RTP between 85% and 92%, though some may go as low as 80% or higher than 95%. The average return-to-player percentage across all gambling sites is about 93%.

Bonuses and promotions can help you give your bankroll a boost

Bonuses and promotions are another great way to give your bankroll a boost. These can be used to play for free, or they may actually help you win more money. For example, if you’re playing slots games online and want to use a bonus that gives an extra $10 in free play money, the casino will ask that you deposit at least $20 into their account first. If they don’t ask for this deposit requirement up front during registration (and many do), it will be disclosed in the terms of service section on their website later on–so make sure not only do you read through all of those documents but also take a look at what kind of conditions apply before accepting any offers!

As far as getting started with bonuses goes: keep an eye out for them when registering at new casinos; check out our list here; search Google News under “Slots Bonus” or similar terms if unsure where else might offer some good deals… possibilities are endless!

A good online casino will have everything you want from a slots site

A good online casino will have everything you want from a slots site. The first thing to look for is the bonuses, which can be anywhere from 100% up to 200% or more! You’ll also want to make sure there are plenty of games available and that they’re all high quality. Another important factor is customer service, which should always be quick and helpful when you need it most–whether via email or live chat. Finally, make sure your favorite mobile casino has enough selection so that no matter where you go (or how long it takes), there will always be something fun waiting for you on those tiny screens!

Conclusion

We hope we’ve given you some insight into what makes a good casino and how to find one. If you’re looking for more information on slots games, check out our other articles on this site. You can also visit our blog where we cover all things related to gambling, including new trends in the industry!

Point-and-Click Games That Will Get You Hooked On

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It was a simpler time when all gamers had to do was click on their computer mouse. Simple point-and-click mechanics have long fallen out of fashion in favour of more complex and rewarding gameplay. But while the genre peaked in the distant 1990s, classic point-and-click entries revolutionised the medium with their story-driven focus, colourful characters, and sharp dialogues. So, we’ve put out a list of some of the best games to discover or revisit, mixing some timeless gems with modern takes on the genre.

Doko Doki Literature Club!

This 2017 point-and-click visual novel is a case in point of not judging a book by its cover. At first glance, Doki Doki Literature Club might seem like your average dating simulator with its anime-styled characters and bubbly design.

The main protagonist joins a high school literature club upon the invitation of her childhood friend, Sayori. As per the usual eroge formula, said book club is brimming with cute girls you may either seduce or friend-zone.

But a much darker truth is lurking in the shadows. So dark indeed that this indie game caused quite a moral panic back in the day, as its light-hearted vibe quickly gives way to sheer psychological horror. So, brace yourself for unexpected plot twists that will send shivers down your spine.

Ace Attorney

Ace Attorney is one of these series you needn’t have played to know. From fiery attorney Phoenix Wright to stylish prosecutor Miles Edgeworth, its iconic characters have spawned more than a few memes to become an integral part of internet culture.

Beyond the memes, though, lovers of legal dramas may discover some of the best visual novels ever put out. Bar a few exceptions, all cases toggle between investigation phases and courtroom trials. Players must interrogate witnesses and gather clues to clear their client’s name in epic court battles. Yet, many dubious witnesses and prosecutors willing to do anything to strike a guilty verdict will get in your way.

Despite its eccentric characters, the series balances out a light tone with compelling murder scenarios tackling mature themes. Newcomers have six main entries to delve into the franchise, besides several spin-offs. History buffs may even travel back to the 19th century with the recent Great Ace Attorney Chronicles.

Grim Fandango

When it comes to retro point-and-click entries, no game boasts as enduring a legacy as Grim Fandango. Mixing elements of film noir with Mexican folklore and dark comedy, Grim Fandango bombed upon its release in 1998. Still, the game gradually reached cult status among critics and gamers.

This retro classic from LucasArts tells the tale of Manny Calavera, a travel agent working in the Death Department of the Aztec Land of the Dead. His line of work boils down to sending recently departed souls to their final destination. But the arrival of a new client, Meche, will set him on an adventure to save this virtuous soul, taking him from the Edge of the World to an underworld casino.

Unlike several recent hits, though, the game boasts no casino minigames. Gamblers may turn to online casinos instead. In Britain, for instance, free guides help players find the best casino bonuses in the UK. Top casino offers may include welcome bonuses for newcomers. Free spins and no deposit bonuses even allow gamers to have a blast without committing any money. So, trying out some Aztec-themed slots has never been easier before revisiting the iconic Grim Fandango.

Machinarium

If you’re looking for an award-winning point-and-click title, look no further. Published by Czech independent developer Amanita Design, Machinarium is a brilliant adventure game that received too many accolades to count.

Meet Josef, an adorable robot who discovers a plot by three villains to bomb Machinarium as he finds his way back to the city after being dumped in a junkyard. Only solving brainteasers and puzzles may foil the impending tragedy. Surprisingly enough, Machinarium contains no dialogue. But cute hand-drawn design, an intriguing storyline, and original mechanics are reasons enough to give this indie gem a try.

The linear gameplay and barebone mechanics of point-and-click games may fend off hardcore gamers. But if you love the strong narration and engaging characters, nothing beats a good old point-and-click adventure. While vintage classics are ideal for a nostalgic gaming session, many developers have rejuvenated the genre for modern audiences. So, get ready to scratch your brain with the best titles the genre has to offer.

Everything you need to know about the Xiaomi Redmi K50i

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The latest phone in the K-series was released late last month, and there’s already a lot of buzz about it. Many people have been heralding it as one of the best affordable phones on the market, but does it live up to such high praise? Let’s dive into the details; here’s everything you need to know about the Xiaomi Redmi K50i.

The spiritual successor to the Redmi K20 Pro, the K50i gives you powerful hardware at an affordable price. The base variant starts at ₹25,999, which comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage – a very reasonable price for such a powerful phone. The more advanced model will cost you ₹28,999 and comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Getting 2GB more RAM and double the storage for only ₹3000 more seems like a great deal to us, and that’s the one we’d recommend. The phone comes in three colours: Phantom Blue, Stealth Black, and Quick Silver. The cameras are another impressive feature of the K50i, as it sports a triple camera setup. It has a 64MP Samsung GW1 lens as its primary camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 2MP macro lens. It may not be able to compete with high-end phones, but it’s one of the best camera setups in its price range. The camera setup is best used during daylight hours, as it will start to struggle in low-light settings.

While the phone is entirely made from plastic, the screen is made of Gorilla Glass 5, so it’s much more durable than it feels when you hold it in your hand. While the phone itself may look quite boxy, it’s still comfortable to hold when you’re using it. The back of the phone has a frosted look and is very good at repelling fingerprints and smudges. Even though the back of the phone is flat, the camera section sticks out, and the lenses come out even further, so it won’t be stable if you lie it down on its back. The phone’s display is somewhat mixed in its quality. It’s a 6.6-inch Full HD+ LCD panel, which will disappoint those who are used to much higher quality LED displays, like those found on other phones we’ve reviewed here at TechQuila. However, Xiaomi has emphasised that the K50i has a fringe-field switching (FFS) LCD screen, which offers many benefits compared to a standard LCD screen, such as fast response times and a low operating voltage, quick response times, and a wide viewing angle. It even has a 144Hz refresh rate, one of the best you’ll see on a phone – particularly for this price. However, the LCD screen means that the phone lacks an OLED phone’s impressive contrasts and deep colour palettes.

While the screen may not be up to scratch for some people, the phone’s performance is where it sets itself apart from other phones in the same price range. As mentioned before, it comes with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the model you choose, as well as a maximum of 256GB of storage space. Both models come with a MediaTek Dimensity 8100 chipset which is more than capable of handling any task you throw at it. Even if you’re running many processor-intensive apps, the phone stays cool in your hand thanks to the Liquidcool 2.0 technology. It’s the perfect phone for whatever you need, whether you want to stream HD videos, work on important documents, or even play online games anywhere in the world, such as the latest casino games that have state-of-the-art animations that can be hard for some phones to run. There are no such problems with the Xiaomi Redmi K50i, as it’s capable of handling whatever game you throw at it, whether it’s online slots, blackjack, or roulette. Whether in India, the UK, or New Zealand, there are many online casinos to choose from, which is why it’s important to read expert reviews before signing up. These review sites will try out every aspect of a site, from the welcome bonus to the casino software, so you know you’re playing on a high-quality site that will look good on your phone. Sites like CasinoReviews give you the expert reviews you need to make your decision. Whatever site you sign up for, the K50i can handle it, as it’s by far the best performing phone for its price.

We think that the Xiaomi Redmi K50i is one of the best phones you can get in its price range. If you’re working on a budget, this phone is for you.

YouTube’s streaming service is the next big plan: Internal Reports from 13th August

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YouTube, one of the Alphabet Inc’s premium companies is planning to launch a new streaming service this fall. As reported by The Wall Street journal, YouTube might launch a new online store for streaming videos. “Channel Store”, is what the company is referring to the aforementioned store internally. The reports are that YouTube is trying map deals with various entertainment platforms to provide participation for the same.

YouTube’s streaming service might be here soon

Expected launch date for YouTube’s new streaming service

YouTube’s streaming service is going to be an online store

Also read: Bumble brings back the ‘Stand For Safety’ initiative in India

As of now there is no official confirmation nor any word as to when the store will be live. But the product has been in the works for 18 months as of now and YouTube is firm on launching the service sometime soon this fall. While Alphabet Inc has not officially released any press statements, a close source from the company has reported that the company plans to set the store on floors by the end of this fall.

The streaming market is the current “big thing” and almost all major companies are in the horde to launch their respective platforms to raise up the stakes. Apple has it already going great with it’s Apple TV. It is expected that the Walmart Inc is also joining the crowd and is in talks with various media houses for a similar fest.

The shift from cable TVs to OTTs

The boom of the new boy “OTT” platform has raced past the age old cable-TVs recently when the world was locked up inside their homes. With almost all major countries providing access to unlimited and fast internet, people were quick to shift from the traditional usage of TV-channels to the new fast paced OTT content. Almost every household is now adapted to this change and for the right reasons as the idea of accessing entertainment anywhere-and-everywhere is quite convenient as compared to older times.

It is hence very much expected from YouTube to keep an eye on the market and plunge into the already blooming streaming services market. As to how well the plan is executed is yet to be seen.

The New Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro launched

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Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro has been officially launched in China. Earlier, Xiaomi had announced that it will launch the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro alongside a bunch of different products. Xiaomi’s Watch S1 debuted in the market in December 2021. S1 Pro is the next one in the line up of watches. It is expected to have a few other siblings in the line up, much like S1 Active. Read on to get more information on the out-of-the-box features of Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro.

Watch S1 Pro
Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro Image Credit: MI

Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro Features

The Watch S1 pro is a modified and more advanced version of Watch S1. It comes with a stainless steel case. The devices has been designed with 5ATM waterproofing. The screen sits at a width of 1.47 inches which is a full AMOLED display with 600 nits peak brightness. The screen resolution is 480 x 480 pixels with a density of roughly 462 ppi. The sensor list is all of the basics and some advanced ones which are: Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2, and a thermometer for body temperature. The WLAN, Bluetooth and GPS are updated to the latest.

S1 Pro comes with a battery backup of 500mAH and if we take Xiaomi’s word for it, the Watch S1 Pro should run for 10 days with heavy usage and 14 days with normal usage. The charging is wirelessly docked and takes around 85 mins to get the juice of S1 Pro up to 100% as claimed by the company.

Also read: Android 13 Beta update is now available on OnePlus, Xiaomi, and many others

Watch S1 Pro Design

As for design differences, the S1 Pro is similar to Xiaomi’s S1 Active. Compared to the previous year, the dual button mapping has been replaced with a digital crown like setup. It looks familiar once you know about Apple’s Watch as the latter comes with a similar placement. The glass is sapphire crystal protection, both front and rear wise. The shape continues to be a round circle.

Color options for S1 Pro and Launch

The Watch S1 Pro will be available in three colors. As of now Black and Silver are the initial colors launched in China. As of now, there is no official statement, as to when will the watch be launched globally. It might take some months before the watch gets global post the China launch.

Marvel’s Spider Man PC Remastered is finally arriving on 12th August and we are excited

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Marvel’s Spider Man, the smasher hit PS4 and PS5 game developed by Insomniac Games is finally being ported to the Windows for PC gamers. The news on the line that is officially stated says that the game will be released on 12th August worldwide. It is however interesting to note that in some places the game will be released on 13th August.

Marvel’s Spider Man was first released back in 2018 on the PlayStation 4 console by Insomniac Games and since then the game has developed a cult following. It was both a critical and commercial success. The game was supremely praised for it’s artistic visuals, engaging storyline, and gameplay. The news about the release of Marvel’s Spider Man PC was around for a long time. Especially after Sony announced the ports of Horizon Zero Dawn and God of War (2018), gamers were particularly curious about the porting of Marvel’s Spider Man to PC.

Marvel’s Spider Man PC was announced back in June 2022

It was only recently announced officially by Sony at the June 2022 State of Play showcase, that Marvel’s Spider Man: Remastered will be a released on 12th August for worldwide PCs. The game has since then held a spectacular buzz. It’s liquid smooth graphics and crisp 4K visuals have had gamers drooling.

Also Read: New God of War Ragnarok Trailer

With hardly 2 days to go, the pre-release reviews for the pc port have been overwhelming, much like the 2018 PlayStation version. Sony also announced the subsequent release of Spider-Man: Miles Morales for Windows. The sudden increase of PC ports from Sony’s PlayStation exclusive titles is a step taken after years of requests (and protests) by gamers across the globe.

Sony has been in the business of PlayStation exclusive titles and Insomniac Games developed Spider Man is one of it’s premium titles. PC gamers have always been disappointed with the exclusion of Windows for certain blockbuster titles from the past that were limited to PlayStation consoles. God of War series, Uncharted Series and the two The Last of Us parts were one of most sought after PlayStation games in the past 2 decades.

It is only now that the times are changing and there is a lot of hope for PC gamers to play all those exclusive golden titles.

Games apart from Marvel’s Spider Man that are in the news for a PC port.

The word has it that after the ports of Horizon Zero Dawn, God of War (2018) and Marvel’s Spider Man, Sony has lined up an Uncharted game and The Last of Us (2013) for the PC remaster. While The Last of Us remake has been officially announced by Naughty Dogs for a PC release, the former title is yet to be officially picked out of the curtains.

As of now, while there is no news, the gaming community is strongly hoping Horizon Forbidden West and God of War: Ragnarök will be transported to Windows too.

What to expect from Marvel’s Spider Man: Remastered?

Well we don’t expect anything less than a complete spectacle of a game. The PlayStation version is still considered to be one of the best console games of the past decade. So it is no wonder that the PC version will be going to give a tough competition to other titles. The gameplay mechanics of Marvel’s Spider Man is considered to be one of the best. The fluid web swinging, the beautiful city of New York, the articulate hand-to-hand combat system and a powerful plot are one of the core strengths of this 2018 PlayStation title. So far, the early reviews have all expressed their satisfaction with the game.

The expectations that were targeting Insomniac Games were well met with a solid game. Now it’s for the gamers to play and give the final verdict.