Justin Kahn

It’s time to look at this month’s best console releases. August does tend to be a slow one but we are seeing some major releases across all the big platforms here. Switch gamers will be getting their first taste of some Monster Hunter with Generations Ultimate while story-driven cult classic Shenmue makes a triumphant return to PS4 and Xbox One. This year’s Madden NFL hits next week and you’ll find all the rest of August’s best console releases down below.
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These days our iPhones provide some of the best and most convenient ways to capture special moments on video. While they will surely get the job done for your casual videographer, including live location audio from the subjects in the shot in combination with the ambient noise of the setting isn’t always that simple. Whether it’s wind noise or just a busy public area, picking up high quality voices and things of that nature with basic iPhone videos can be a chore at best.

Clearly, some kind of mic system is needed to ensure you get high quality voices and there are some options out there for that specifically tailored to mobile recording environments. But the new Sennheiser Memory Mic looks to bring a level of simplicity to the whole process, but does the functionality here justify the somewhat steep price tag?
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Today we are taking a look at a hilarious indie game about being a raccoon that makes giant holes to steal things from people. Donut County is an odd and yet interesting looking physics-based experience that is set for release later month on iOS, Mac/PC and PS4.
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Nintendo has an incredibly successful console generation with the Switch. The console has smashed records all over the place and is nearing 20 million in total sales. All of that sounds pretty impressive but the numbers have started to slide over the last quarter or so. After reporting 2.93 million and 7.23 million units sold in the previous two quarters, sales have slowed down to 1.88 million in the most recent three-month period. That number is still quite high, especially considering it’s the slowest time of year for console sales and the company hasn’t been cranking out as many big-time titles. However, Nintendo is going need an amazing holiday this year in order to meet its sales projections.
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In today’s best game deals, Walmart is now offering Minecraft on Nintendo Switch for $19.99. Shipping is free in orders over $35, otherwise opt for in-store pickup to avoid the delivery fees. Regularly $30 at Amazon and Best Buy, this is the best produce we can find.

More game/console deals:

• Super Mario Odyssey $50 or $40 w/ GCU (Reg. $60) | Best Buy
• Far Cry 5 Xbox One $29.50 (Reg. $40+) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWSP33 at checkout
• Assassin’s Creed Origins $30 (Reg. $38) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWSP33 at checkout
• Cave Story+ on Nintendo Switch $20 (Reg. $30) | Target
• Owlboy Standard Edition PS4 $19 (Reg. $30) | Amazon
• Owlboy Xbox One $20 or $17.50 w/ Live (Reg. $25) | Microsoft
• DOOM + Wolfenstein II $32 or $26 w/ Live (Reg. $60+) Microsoft

ICYMI: Here’s the Spider-Man PlayStation 4 Pro and Microsoft is reportedly readying cloud-only next gen Xbox Scarlett console.

Down below you’ll find more console game deals and new products. Your daily iOS/Mac app sales are on the way!

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Audiobus 3 has a major new update out now. The handy little tool for iOS musicians and sound designers allows many of those audio apps in your collection to talk to one another and it just got a whole lot more fluent.
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Hello Neighbor is developed by Dynamic Pixels and was later picked up by publisher tinyBuild for release on Xbox One and PC. It is a unique stealth experience with interesting AI that will see players sneaking into a neighbor’s house to discover its secrets. Today the game is set for release on both iOS and Android devices along with Nintendo Switch and PS4.
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Synthesizers in general, especially hardware variants, can seem daunting at first to your average musician. Modular synthesis adds another level (or two) of complexity on to the formula making it even more out of reach for up and coming producers, sound designers and audio programmers. Another thing to keep in mind is that synthesizers are inherently expensive and modular setups can get pretty crazy with the need for external power supplies, cases for each unit, cables and more.

There are certainly companies out there looking to offer up interesting products to ease musicians into the world of modular synthesis and synthesizers in general, but the new desktop modular boxes from Hungry Robot certainly caught our eye.
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A few months back we touched down with a fresh Guacamelee 2 update. We were hit with a load of gameplay footage and a series of details from the game’s GDC 2018 appearance. While its colorful action-based gameplay and interesting twist on Mexican folklore has caught our attention from day one, developer Drinkbox studios has now dropped a brand new release trailer along with the official launch date.
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Last week, Microsoft announced that it would unveiling next generation hardware and accessories at gamescom come August. While there’s basically no chance of this being the new Xbox, it is likely we could see an updated Elite Xbox controller along with some special bundles. However, some new leaks have pointed at interesting details regarding the currently in development next generation Xbox console hardware.
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Japanese audio/electronics company Roland is once again teaming up with the folks at PUMA for an exclusive new sneaker design. Earlier this year, the two brands linked up for the RS-0 which brought vintage elements from PUMA’s early silhouettes together with Roland’s iconic TR-808 drum machine. And now, the two have joined forces once again on the new PUMA RS-100 Roland.
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PreSonus is one of those music production gear companies that offers up some great gear at very affordable price tags. It just recently debuted the latest version of its FaderPort controllers and has now issued a new podcasting/home recording bundle. The new package brings together just about everything one might need to get their YouTube media empire off the ground for under $300.
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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe may not have been the completely new, refreshed cart racing title Switch fans were hoping for when Nintendo’s latest console dropped, but it has been a great addition to the library nonetheless. It’s hard to imagine a new Nintendo console without an updated Mario Kart game to play on it, so it’s easy to see why Nintendo opted for a re-release of sorts while it toils with the next generation Mushroom Kingdom racer.

However, that’s not going to stop Nintendo from introducing new content to the game. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is getting a free Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild update that will see the titular character in his latest iteration enter the fray.
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Arturia has been one of our favorite music gear makers over the last few years. Its affordable analog Brute-series synths and drum machines provide that classic sound to those that may have otherwise been left dreaming about having that MiniMoog one day. While personally I like to have a balance between pricey analog sound sources and interesting software options, Arturia is unveiling the latest member in its analog Brute family and we are stoked about it.
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Microsoft had a surprisingly notable E3 showing this year. After it appeared as though it might not have much to show when it hit the stage, it proceeded to bombard us with 50 games including 18 exclusives and 15 world premieres. So yeah, things turned out alright. After all, we awarded the Cyberpunk 2077 trailer shown off during the Xbox presser one of our Game of Show awards this year.

Since then, we have seen some notable official price drops and even a pair of new Xbox One bundles as we continue through summer 2018, but it looks like the Xbox announcements and product unveils are just starting to heat up.
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In today’s best iOS and Mac app/game deals, we have notable price drops on YoWindow Weather, Dawn of Crafting, Survival: Man vs. Wild-Escape, Anytune Pro+ and more. You’ll find a complete list of today’s absolute best apps curated by hand down below:
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We feature our fair share of interesting gear and instruments for Mac/iOS musicians and producers around here. Just last week Elektron debuted the new Analog Heat external FX processor just after the fully-loaded Synth One iPad Synthesizer hit the App Store for free. A couple of months back Moog brought us the new Grandmother semi-modular analog synth, but today we are looking at the brand new SKULPT from British designer Modal.
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In today’s best game deals, Newegg is now offering Far Cry 5 on PS4 and Xbox One for $29.99 shipped. Simply use code EMCPWES25 at checkout to redeem the special price, It still fetches $60 at Best Buy and $39+ at Amazon.

More game/console deals:

• Rayman Legends Definitive $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $40) | Best Buy
• Prey $14 (Reg. $20) | Amazon
• Grand Theft Auto V Digital $20 (Reg. $40) | GameStop
• Mega Man Legacy Collection $6 (Reg. $15) | Microsoft
• Mega Man Legacy Collection 1 & 2 Combo Pack $15 (Reg. $30) | Microsoft
• Wolfenstein II The new Colossus $20 (Reg. $40) | GameStop
• Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 $12 (Reg. $20) | Microsoft
• The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt $20 (Reg. $40+) | GameStop

ICYMI: Here are the best console game releases for July: Captain Toad, Octopath Traveler, Sonic, more

Down below you’ll find more console game deals and new products. Your daily iOS/Mac app sales are on the way!

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We have seen some interesting innovations for guitar players over the last few years like the IK app-connected stomp boxes. Even Fender released it’s own iOS/Android powered amps in mid-2017, but today BOSS is announcing the availability of “the world’s first totally wireless guitar amplifier”.
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Whether it’s Passport holders, gorgeous leather messenger bags or iPhone and iPad cases, Pad & Quill makes just about everything except for pads and quills. Until today that is. The company is introducing its new lineup of journals and journal accessories, all of which carry on the company’s tradition in premium materials and focused craftsmanship.
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In today’s best game deals, Best Buy is offering Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle on Nintendo Switch for $29.99. However, those still with a GCU membership can grab the game for just $23.99. That’s one of the best prices we have ever tracked and well under the $54 you’ll pay at Amazon right now.

More game/console deals:

• God of War on PS4 for $45 (Reg. $60) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWPY35 at checkout
• Yakuza Kiwami SteelBook Edition $15 or $12 w/ GCU (Reg. $20) | Best Buy
• Prey $14 (Reg. $20) | Amazon
• Doom $14 (Reg. $20) | Amazon
• Bloodborne $15 or $12 w/ GCU (Reg. $18+) | Best Buy
• Rayman Legends Definitive $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $40) | Best Buy
• Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection $30 (Reg. $40) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWPY35 at checkout
• The Last Guardian $15 (Reg. $20) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWPY35 at checkout
• Mega Man Legacy Collection $6 (Reg. $15) | Microsoft
• Mega Man Legacy Collection 1 & 2 Combo Pack $15 (Reg. $30) | Microsoft
• Wolfenstein II The new Colossus $20 (Reg. $40) | GameStop
• Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 $12 (Reg. $20) | Microsoft
• The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt $20 (Reg. $40+) | GameStop

ICYMI: Here are the best console game releases for July: Captain Toad, Octopath Traveler, Sonic, more

Down below you’ll find more console game deals and new products. Your daily iOS/Mac app sales are on the way!

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Today Microsoft is unveiling the latest in its long lineup of Xbox One controllers. The company looks to be introducing a new series of controllers to the family with the Xbox Wireless Controller Sport White Special Edition. While it seems as though just every possible color combination has already been released in some way or other, Microsoft is taking the design touches up a notch here as opposed to just dropping a fresh coat of paint on the standard gamepad.
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Elektron is one of our favorite audio production companies out there. It may not have a long-standing history like some of the more well-known brands like Moog, Korg and others, but it has been producing some of the more interesting hardware instruments in the game for a number of years from analog drum machines, effects boxes and synths, to digital beat machines and more. We have been lucky enough to go hands on with some of its gear in the past and we’re excited to hear about the launch of the new Analog Heat MKII.
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In today’s best iOS and Mac app/game deals, we have notable price drops on Tomb Raider: Underworld, Week Calendar, Braveland, Candleman, Planescape: Torment, Alto’s Adventure and more. You’ll find a complete list of today’s absolute best apps curated by hand down below:
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In today’s best game deals, Newegg is now offering God of War on PS4 for $44.99 shipped. Simply use code EMCPWPY35 at checkout. It still goes for $60 at Best Buy and Amazon.

More game/console deals:

• Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild $45 (Reg. $60) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWPY35 at checkout
• Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle $30 or $24 w/ GCU (Reg. $60) | Best Buy
• Rayman Legends Definitive $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $40) | Best Buy
• Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection $30 (Reg. $40) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWPY35 at checkout
• The Last Guardian $15 (Reg. $20) | Newegg
  • Using code EMCPWPY35 at checkout
• Mega Man Legacy Collection $6 (Reg. $15) | Microsoft
• Mega Man Legacy Collection 1 & 2 Combo Pack $15 (Reg. $30) | Microsoft
• Wolfenstein II The new Colossus $20 (Reg. $40) | GameStop
• Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 $12 (Reg. $20) | Microsoft
• The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt $20 (Reg. $40+) | GameStop
• Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition $20 (Reg. $30) | Amazon/GameStop
• Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Siege from $30 (Reg. $40+) | GameStop
• Yakuza 0 $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $40) | Best Buy
• Stardew Valley $13 (Reg. $20+) | Walmart

ICYMI: Here are the best console game releases for July: Captain Toad, Octopath Traveler, Sonic, more

Down below you’ll find more console game deals and new products. Your daily iOS/Mac app sales are on the way!

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The summer months tend to be slow for game releases while all of the biggest publishers blowout the next year or more of titles at E3. You’ll find all of our coverage of the biggest gaming event of the year right here, but it’s time to get back to the new games. July will see a couple re-releases and add-ons in the way of Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker for Switch and 3DS along side Sonic Mania Plus, Octopath Traveler and more. Head below for more details on all the best game releases of July 2018.
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Founded in the mid 1920’s, Beyerdynamic has been producing high-quality audio gear out of Germany for many years. As of late, it is best known for its over-ear studio headphones that easily rank among our favorites in the price range. But today the company is introducing a new product in an audio category the it is not normally associated with.
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In today’s best iOS and Mac app/game deals, we have notable price drops on AirDisk Pro, Doom and Destiny, Demon’s Rise, Civilization games, Assassin’s Creed Identity and more. You’ll find a complete list of today’s absolute best apps curated by hand down below:
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At this point in the console cycle it is unlikely we will be getting any major announcements on the hardware side of things until the next generation machines get debuted. In the mean time, it will all be about special editions and new bundles looking to carry consoles as deep into the lifecycle as possible.

Sony recently unveiled the new Days of Play PS4 which headlined its big summer promotions this year surrounding E3 where it teased the new Kingdom Hearts 3 Special Edition console. And now, Microsoft is ready to turn out a pair of new bundles featuring Minecraft and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds.
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The App Store is loaded with amazing music production tools. Many of our favorite instruments come by way of companies like Moog, but there are a few from smaller developers that really shine on the platform. While it has been hard to put down the iPad Model-D as of late, a new, open-source synth caught our eye recently.
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Seasoned gamers might remember that hilarious beat’em up-adventure game Shaquille O’Neal starred in back in the 90’s known as Shaq Fu. The title released on Super Nintendo, SEGA Genesis, Game Boy and Game Gear back in 1995, before being resurrected on Indiegogo a few years ago. After a few licensing delays and final polishing, the game finally hit store shelves earlier this month on June 5th. In other words, Shaq is back, but it looks like President Barack Obama is making a special appearance here as well?!?
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In today’s best iOS and Mac app/game deals, we have notable price drops on Brave Guardians TD, Hitman Sniper, the GO games,Montessorium: Intro to Letters and more. You’ll find a complete list of today’s absolute best apps curated by hand down below:
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In today’s best game deals, Amazon and Best Buy have now knocked $5 off Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Nintendo Switch. But that means those still with a GCU membership can grab the game for $43.99 shipped. That’s the best price around and a great deal on Nintendo’s flagship racer. It now has full Labo support and you can see our full hands-on review right here.

More game/console deals:

• Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Siege from $30 (Reg. $40+) | GameStop
• Yakuza 0 $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $40) | Best Buy
• Super Mario Odyssey $49 or $39 w/ GCU (Reg. $60) | Best Buy
• Stardew Valley $13 (Reg. $20+) | Walmart
• Grand Theft Auto V $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $30+) | Best Buy
• Dark Souls Remastered $30 or $24 (Reg. $40+) | Best Buy
• Horizon Zero Dawn: Complete $20 or $16 w/ GCU (Reg. $40) | Best Buy
• Horizon Zero Dawn $10 or $8 w/ GCU (Reg. $30) | Best Buy

ICYMI: The Steam Summer Sale is here! and Nintendo is bringing Labo support to Mario Kart 8 so you can race w/ your cardboard creations.

Down below you’ll find more console game deals and new products. Your daily iOS/Mac app sales are on the way!

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We are officially in the battle royale era with titles like Fortnite at 125 million players strong and an increasing number of development teams vying for player share in the hottest genre in gaming. Essentially just a new game mode expanded from the tried and tested online arena shooter format titles like Call of Duty, Battlefield and Overwatch, even the biggest franchises in gaming have plans to enter the space. Last we week highlighted a lesser known survival-based battle royale title and today it’s time to take things up a notch.
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Just last week, Minecraft for Nintendo Switch got a major update which, among other things, allows for cross-platform play between Nintendo’s latest console, Xbox One and PCs. One glaring omission from that list is the PlayStation 4 which currently will not allow players on other platforms to match with PS4 gamers. And that includes Minecraft, Rocket League and the ever popular Fortnite. Sony has yet to officially alter its position on blocking cross-play and the like, but a new statement from the company hints that might be changing. 
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Bringing full mouse and keyboard support to Microsoft’s home console has been a contentious topic for a while now among gamers and industry analysts. While there are already some games that allow for it (basically just Minecraft), new information in conjunction with leaked documents point at a major partnership between Xbox and Razor that is already in the works. Redmond has been teasing complete seamless mouse and keyboard support on Xbox One for what feels like years at this point, and it looks like it might finally be on the way.
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Microsoft impressed many when it showed off around 50 titles at this year’s Xbox E3 event. We caught a glimpse of Halo: Infinite, Forza Horizon 4, Kingdom Hearts 3, and our game of the show, Cyberpunk 2077. But one title that may have gotten overshadowed by the big hitters is The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. It is a sort of intro or prologue to the upcoming Life is Strange sequel, available today on most platforms and is completely free.
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Things are heating up over at Bethesda as the major publisher is claiming a smaller studio stole its code to create a new Westworld mobile game. Warner Bros. and HBO dropped more information on the new iOS and Android Westworld title just a few days ago as the official App Store Twitter account revealed the June 21st release date. Only problem is, it looks like the developers ripped the game off the famous Fallout/Elder Scrolls creator and Bethesda is not happy about it.
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In today’s best iOS and Mac app/game deals, we have notable price drops on Ticket to Ride, Tokaido, The Bonfire: Forsaken Lands, Iron Marines, Kingdom Rush games and more. You’ll find a complete list of today’s absolute best apps curated by hand down below:
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The battle royale genre took off with PUBG a little while back and now Fortnite has taken the helm of what can only be described as the biggest gaming phenomena since Pokémon GO. While Fortnite has mostly stolen the thunder from PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, the popular Call of Duty franchise announced it was stepping into the space with a new mode for Black Ops 4 back in May. But there’s a smaller battle royale-style game known as Darwin Project that has also caught our attention.
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