Bill Loguidice's Blog

The Bilestoad, by Marc Goodman, aka, Mangrove Earthshoe, for the Apple II, published by Datamost in 1982, was a commercial flop due, in part, to piracy. It’s a shame too, because while it ended up being Goodman’s only game, it was absolutely brilliant in execution as a more brutal and graphic take on the equally classic and groundbreaking 1979 Vectorbeam arcade game, Warrior.

Interestingly, Goodman also did the excellent cover art for The Bilestoad, which you can see below.

The Bilestoad (Apple II, 1982)

Truly a talented guy! Anyway, color me surprised when I came across this 1987 Eaglesoft-published version of a 1985 Pony Canyon-published game, Crusader. While the original Pony Canyon version features what appears to be unique cover art, not so much for the Eaglesoft version, as you can see below.

Crusader (MSX, 1987) [Source: Generated MSX]

Since Goodman effectively left the business after The Bilestoad, how did his artwork make it onto the European version of Crusader, a very different type of game? Is it another case of Goodman’s work being stolen, or did he somehow get to squeeze out just a tiny bit more compensation for his earlier work? We’ll have to investigate further, though I suspect the conclusion won’t be positive.

Warrior (1979)The Bilestoad (1982)Crusader (1985)

The post The Bilestoad (Apple II) versus Crusader (MSX) cover art – It’s a mystery! appeared first on Armchair Arcade.

Amazon link (less than $20!).

There are lots of options for wireless lavalier microphones, but few are as inexpensive and straightforward as the AMPOMOV Wireless Microphone set.

In the box, you get a charging case that displays charge level remaining, a USB-C transmitter, two lapel microphones, a short USB-C to USB-A charging cable, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, a USB-C female to USB-C male adapter, and a user manual.

There’s little you have to do to get this setup to work. Using my Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max as the test device, I plugged the USB-C transmitter in and powered on one of the lapel microphones, whose light turned green once connected. That was it, it just worked.

Recording quality is very good overall. As you can tell from me reading this script, voice quality is clear. While it doesn’t have superior noise isolation and will pick up movement on your shirt or wherever else you clipped it with its 360-degree recording field, as long as you’re thoughtful about the microphone’s placement, it gets the job done.

You can get more sophisticated solutions with better voice isolation, but considering this has a roughly 65-foot range and is as plug-and-play simple as it gets, this is a great device to have handy when you need to be a distance from your video recording device. At less than $20, it’s a steal.

AMPOMOV Wireless Lavalier Microphone

The post AMPOMOV Wireless Lavalier Microphone – Quick Video Review appeared first on Armchair Arcade.

The new GameSir X5s Wireless Mobile Game Controller delivers what is referred to as pro-level control in an ultra-lightweight, travel-ready design. It features tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4GHz), Hall Effect sticks for drift-free precision, HD rumble, native motion control, and swappable ABXY layouts. Weighing just 174g and complete with a protective carry case, the X5s is a multi-platform companion for mobile gamers.

You can get it for just under $50 via Amazon using this link.

The full press release follows:

GameSir Unveils X5s Wireless Mobile Game Controller with Tri-Mode Connectivity

Tri-mode connectivity, Hall Effect sticks, HD rumble, native motion control, and swappable ABXY layouts combine in an ultra-lightweight, travel-ready design for Switch, Android, iOS, and PC gaming

Video here

SHENZHEN, China — August 26th, 2025— GameSir, a leading innovator in gaming peripherals, has announced the launch of the X5s Wireless Mobile Game Controller, a high-performance, multi-platform controller that delivers precision engineering and immersive features for gamers on the go. Building on the success of the X5 Lite, the X5s retains its lightweight, travel-friendly design while introducing tri-mode connectivity for broader compatibility, native motion control, dual HD rumble motors, and swappable ABXY layouts. The result is a controller designed to meet the demands of modern gaming, whether at home or on the move. The GameSir X5s is available for $49.99/£49.99 from Amazon US, Amazon UK, Best Buy and the GameSir website.

With Bluetooth, USB-C wired, and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity (dongle sold separately), the X5s works seamlessly across Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, Android, iOS, and PC. Supporting devices between 105–213mm in length, it adapts to a wide variety of smartphones and handheld consoles. At just 174 grams, the X5s is exceptionally portable, and comes complete with a durable PP storage case for protection during travel.

Precision is at the heart of the X5s, thanks to GameSir Hall Effect sticks. Using non-contact magnetic sensors, these sticks eliminate the risk of stick drift while delivering ultra-smooth 360° control and an extended lifespan of up to two million cycles. The controller also features Hall Effect analog triggers for accurate, responsive input, enhanced by a dedicated hair trigger mode—activated by pressing M+LT/RT—for rapid response in competitive titles.

Immersion is taken to the next level with dual HD rumble motors embedded in each grip, delivering finely tuned haptic feedback. From the recoil of gunfire to the subtle rumble of an engine, every movement is felt with precision. For Switch users, the integrated 6-axis gyroscope offers native motion control, enabling intuitive aiming, steering, and movement in compatible titles for an even more engaging gameplay experience.

The X5s further enhances versatility with physically swappable ABXY buttons, allowing quick layout changes between Xbox and Switch configurations using the included button clip. Turbo functionality is supported across the A, B, X, Y, LB, RB, LT, and RT buttons, providing an edge in fast-paced gameplay.

Performance-conscious gamers can pair the X5s with the optional FX5 or FX5 Lite thermoelectric coolers (sold separately) to help manage device temperatures during extended sessions. Meanwhile, the included GameHub platform unlocks access to PC emulators, cloud gaming, and game streaming services, with support for both controller and touch inputs.

Personalisation is made easy through the GameSir app, which allows firmware updates, stick and trigger dead zone adjustments, vibration intensity tuning, and button testing—ensuring the X5s performs exactly how each player prefers.

Launching globally on August 25, the GameSir X5s delivers a feature-rich, ultra-portable solution for gamers looking to take full control—anytime, anywhere, on any platform.

The GameSir X5s is available for $49.99/£49.99 from Amazon US, Amazon UK, Best Buy and the GameSir website.

Media Kit and High resolution imagery of the GameSir X5s available here.

About GameSir:

Founded in 2013, GameSir is one of the world’s leading providers of high-performance gaming peripherals, providing high-tech gaming hardware and excellent gaming experience for every gamer. In the name of “Just in Game”, GameSir knows exactly what each gamer really crave – the accurate control and enhanced gaming experience. Therefore, GameSir has been testing every potential solution to meet the needs of gamers, which is the GameSir mission.

For more information, visit www.gamesir.com

GameSir X5s

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This wild The Three-Body Problem controller from PB Tails – designed around the Ghost Silver Crush as a new Droplet edition – is only available in China. However, you can get a similar Chromeposite Mirror controller, except with upgraded TMR – rather than Hall Effect – sensors.

You don’t get The Three-Body Problem branding and related special inclusions, but you do get one heck of a multi-platform wireless controller for around $100 with the PB Tails Metal Crush Chromeposite Mirror TMR.

I previously reviewed the PB Tail Metal Crush Defender TMR controller for IGN, and came away impressed. This is no different.

As you can see in my video, if you’re in China, you get the shiny controller, pin, cleaning cloth, and – removable from its acrylic display case – a heavy chrome droplet that represents the small, manoeuvrable unmanned spaceships from The Three-Body Problem. While the non-Chinese version doesn’t feature any of that except for the controller and cleaning cloth, I’d say the arguably best-in-class TMR sensor upgrade more than makes up for it.

PB Tails Three-Body Problem Droplet Edition Chromeposite Mirror Controller Unboxing

Video content (script and unboxing) and editing by me (Bill Loguidice). Voiceover, Kore from Google AI Studio. Opening and ending videos generated from Google Veo. Background music, Pixabay, Growing Corporate (Corporate music, background music) by Artur_Aravidi_Music.

PB Tails Three-Body Problem Droplet Edition Chromeposite Mirror Controller

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The highly rated Fanttik T1 Max Soldering Iron, either by itself or bundled with other useful tools, is up to 40% off. Here are the various options:

You can get the iron itself for $76.99 and then an additional $20.79 off!

You can get the iron and the B8 Ace Electric Air Duster for $89.96, a savings of $60.02, or 40%!

The iron and K2 Nano 3.7V Mini Power Drill is just $105.97, a savings of $64.01!

The iron and E1 Max 3.7V Mini Electric Screwdriver in white is just $105.99, a savings of $43.97!

The iron and F2 Master Mini Cordless Rotary Tool Kit is just $106.99, a savings of $67.99!

The iron and E2 Ultra 3.7V Mini Electric Screwdriver is just $107.97, a savings of $62.01!

Fanttik T1 Max Soldering Iron.

The post Fanttik T1 Max Wireless Soldering Iron plus various bundles up to 40% off! appeared first on Armchair Arcade.

Blaze’s Evercade offshoot, HyperMegaTech!, is releasing a new product line, Super Micro Keychain Gamer, with four SKUs to start. There’s Asteroids, Centipede, Space Invaders, and BurgerTime, each with 1 – 3 games on them. There’s clearly no cartridge port, so these will strictly be plug and play devices.

What follows is my breakdown of what versions of the games I think are on each one. My guess for Space Invaders is that it’s a custom version rather than the arcade or console, but I guess we’ll eventually find out.

SM01 – Super Micro Asteroids Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!) includes: Asteroids (Atari 7800), Gravitar (Atari 2600), Yars’ Revenge (Atari 2600)

Super Micro Asteroids Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!)

SM02 – Super Micro Centipede Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!) includes: Centipede (Atari 7800), Crystal Castles (Atari 2600), Millipede (Atari 2600)

Super Micro Centipede Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!)

SM03 – Super Micro Space Invaders Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!) includes: Space Invaders

Super Micro Keychain Gamer series (HyperMegaTech!)

SM04 – Super Micro BurgerTime Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!) includes: BurgerTime (NES), Karate Champ (NES), Side Pocket! (NES)

Super Micro BurgerTime Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!)

You can see my full Evercade/HyperMegaTech! game list here. Right now, you can find all four of the Super Micro Keychains available from Songbird for a late October 2025 release. It should also come to Amazon at some point.

Super Micro Asteroids Keychain Gamer (HyperMegaTech!)

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ACEMAGIC has their M1 Mini PC, which is regularly just $729.99, for an additional 40% off on Amazon with promo code QFUSRZFV! It features an Intel Core i9-11900H, 32GB DDR4, 1TB SSD, WiFi 6, and more, including a host of connectivity options, in ACEMAGIC’s proven mini PC form factor. It’s a great deal for such a high-performance mini workstation.

ACEMAGIC M1 Mini PC

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Antigravity finally unveiled more details about their hotly-anticipated A1 drone. The 8K 360-degree footage it captures looks to be a big step up in drone photography. I’ll be reviewing the A1 for How-To Geek in the not-too-distant future.

Check out the sizzle reel:

Meet Antigravity A1Antigravity Vision GogglesAntigravity Grip Motion Controller

Here’s the press release:

Los Angeles – [August 14] — Antigravity, a drone brand incubated by Insta360 and third parties, has today unveiled its first product: Antigravity A1, the world’s first drone¹ equipped with 8K 360-degree capture. A1 redefines what drones can do by combining an immersive flying experience with intuitive controls.

360 Capture, Reimagined for Flight

At the heart of Antigravity A1 is a dual-lens camera system that captures everything around it in 360 degrees. The lenses are mounted on the top and bottom of the drone’s fuselage, enabling complete environmental capture with no blind spots.

Advanced stitching technology renders the drone invisible when viewed through the goggles and in the final footage. The result is immersive, clean video that places drone pilots directly inside the scene without distractions.

360 Immersive Flight

A key feature of Antigravity A1 is its unparalleled level of immersion. The drone, the Vision goggles, and the Grip controller work together to enable a new way to explore the skies.

With Antigravity’s unique FreeMotion technology and responsive head tracking, pilots can look freely in any direction while flying the drone using intuitive hand gestures. This separates flying the drone from viewing the surroundings, allowing pilots to look in one direction while flying in another. The result is a level of immersion that makes it feel as if you’re really there — turning Antigravity A1 into a tool for aerial exploration.

The 360 immersion doesn’t end when the drone lands — recorded footage can be viewed in 360 degrees over and over again, letting users discover new angles every time they watch.

Designed for Limitless Creativity

Antigravity A1 is built to fit into everyday life. Its dual-lens setup mirrors the capabilities of Insta360’s popular X Series, making it easy for anyone to capture stunning 8K 360 footage — this time in the sky.

Every angle is recorded, giving creators the power to reframe their footage in post and make sure they never miss a shot. This enables powerful new editing possibilities like dynamic camera moves, Tiny Planet effects, and horizon flips. Creating cinematic FPV-style footage is now more accessible than ever. This technology also allows users to export multiple angles from a single clip in any aspect ratio without losing quality.

Lightweight and Travel-Ready

Weighing only 249g, Antigravity A1 meets regulatory requirements in most countries and regions. It’s the perfect drone for creators, families, travelers, and first-time pilots seeking a powerful yet accessible tool for aerial storytelling. Its compact size makes it easy to pack, carry, and launch in seconds.

A New Standard in Ease of Use and Safety

Antigravity A1 is built with simplicity in mind. Pilots fly using the Grip controller, which responds to natural hand movements, eliminating the need for traditional stick controls. Paired with the Vision goggles, users can freely explore their surroundings in real time with full 360-degree visibility. To ensure that Antigravity A1 is used solely for exploration and storytelling, it includes a payload detection to prevent misuse or unauthorized modifications.

“We didn’t want to just build another drone. We wanted to create an entirely new way to fly,” said BC Nie, Head of Marketing at Antigravity. “A1 is the first step in reimagining flight as something anyone can enjoy — something that is safe, intuitive, expressive, and endlessly creative.”

Antigravity A1 Key Features8K 360-degree capture with top-and-bottom lens configuration.Compact and lightweight at 249g for license-free flying in most countries and regions.Invisible drone effect through advanced image stitching.Intuitive point-to-fly controls with the Grip controller.360 immersive live view and head tracking via the Vision goggles.Never miss a shot with easy post-flight reframing and editing.Safety features including return-to-home and a payload detection system.

Availability

Antigravity A1 is scheduled to launch globally in January 2026. Final pricing, bundle details, and regional availability will be announced closer to launch.

In the meantime, applications are now open for the first-ever Antigravity co-creation project. We’re inviting creators from around the world to join the journey and help shape the future of Antigravity products.

Selected participants will receive a pre-production Antigravity A1 to test, explore, and share their ideas. The best ideas will be integrated into the retail version, and contributors will have a chance to win a share of the US$20,000 reward pool.

Applications are open at www.antigravity.tech.

About Antigravity

Antigravity is a consumer drone company reimagining how people experience flight. Incubated by Insta360 in collaboration with third parties, Antigravity develops powerful 360 drones that are immersive, creator-ready, and easy for anyone to fly — whether capturing family moments, weekend adventures, or creative projects. Its mission is to make drone flight more inclusive, expressive, and fun. By combining 360 capture with intuitive control systems, Antigravity is pioneering a new category of aerial exploration and storytelling. Built by a global team of engineers, designers, and creators, the company will release its first drone in early 2026.

Follow Antigravity on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AntigravityGlobal/

Follow Antigravity on X: https://x.com/Antigravity_HQ

Follow Antigravity on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antigravity_global/

Follow Antigravity on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@antigravity_global

Follow Antigravity on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/antigravitytech/

Subscribe to Antigravity’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Antigravity_Global

Press Contact

Ben Liu

Antigravity

pr@antigravity.tech

¹ The term “world’s first” refers to the fact that, as of July 28, 2025, Antigravity has announced the market’s first 8K all-in-one 360 drone. It captures high-quality 360 video directly without the need for an external 360 camera attachment. The drone features a built-in 360 camera, supports real-time data transmission, and allows users to adjust shooting parameters on the fly.

The post Antigravity Unveils A1 – World’s First 8K 360 Drone appeared first on Armchair Arcade.

The Video Game History Foundation, as part of their Digital Archive, has made Computer Entertainer (nee, The Video Game Update) newsletter archive available within their wider magazine library. Many of the scans have even been enhanced. Here’s what they have to say about the 1982 – 1990 collection:

Computer Entertainer, originally titled The Video Game Update, was a video game newsletter published from 1982 until July 1990. It began as a newsletter for the video game mail-order company Video Take-Out, operated by sisters Marylou Badeaux and Celeste Dolan, before branching out into general video game coverage.

Computer Entertainer was one of the few American video game publications that ran continuously through the 1983–1984 American game industry crash. As such, it was one of the few American press outlets to cover console video games in the mid-to-late-80s. Notably, the magazine features some of the only known American coverage of the launch of the Nintendo Entertainment System, including one of the only American reviews of Super Mario Bros. Because of its connection with Video Take-Out’s mail order business, Computer Entertainer is also one of the few reliable sources of American release date information for 1980s video games, which were printed in each issue.

The Video Game History Foundation acquired the rights to Computer Entertainer in 2025 and released the complete run of the magazine into the Creative Commons. See “Conditions Governing Reproduction” for more information.

The Video Game Update includes Computer Entertainer – June 1983

The post Computer Entertainer / The Video Game update 1982 – 1990 newsletter archive now freely available appeared first on Armchair Arcade.

Press release for the new GameSir G7 Pro, available on Amazon and other retailers:

GameSir Launches G7 Pro: A Next-Gen Controller Engineered for Precision, Performance, and Platform Versatility

Refined from the celebrated G7 lineage, the new G7 Pro delivers tri-mode connectivity, Hall Effect analog triggers, GameSir Mag-Res TMR sticks, gyroscope support (PC only), and a swappable magnetic faceplate design—offering gamers an immersive, customizable, and high-performance experience across Xbox, PC, and Android

London, 11th August 2025– GameSir, a leading innovator in gaming peripherals, today announced the official launch of the GameSir G7 Pro, an advanced multi-platform controller designed for pro-level performance across Xbox, PC, and Android devices. Building upon the legacy of its predecessors—the G7, G7 SE, and G7 HE—the G7 Pro introduces a wealth of upgrades, including Hall Effect analog triggers with clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, enhanced latency and polling rate, and the new GameSir Mag-Res TMR sticks, delivering anti-drift accuracy and ultra-smooth control. The GameSir G7 Pro is available for $79.99/£79.99 from Amazon US, Amazon UK, Best Buy and the GameSir website.

Available in sleek Black and White finishes, the G7 Pro embraces a versatile tri-mode connectivity model. It supports wired play for Xbox, wired and 2.4G wireless connections for PC, and Bluetooth for Android, all accessible via a physical mode switch for effortless platform transitions. A detachable cable retainer ensures a secure and stable connection during wired sessions.

At the core of its precision is GameSir’s Mag-Res TMR stick technology, which merges the low power consumption of traditional potentiometers with the longevity and stability of Hall Effect sticks. As the first Xbox-licensed controller featuring TMR sticks, this innovation enables faster response times and consistent in-game control, further supported by a 1000Hz polling rate when connected to PC via wired or 2.4G.

Performance is further enhanced by the Hall Effect analog triggers, which offer smooth, linear control ideal for precision gameplay. Paired with tactile Micro Switch trigger stops, players can customize their trigger feel, including activating Hair Trigger Mode for rapid-fire input during competitive scenarios.

The G7 Pro introduces four customizable macro buttons, including two mini bumpers (R5/L5) and two lockable back buttons (R4/L4), giving gamers flexible configuration for personalized control. A built-in gyroscope (PC only) enables intuitive motion input mapping, allowing movement-based control schemes across various games.

Durability and tactility are also key components of the G7 Pro. Optical Micro Switch ABXY buttons and a mechanical Micro Switch D-pad ensure crisp, e-sports-level feedback, while four independent rumble motors—one in each grip and trigger—deliver immersive, localized haptic feedback for a more lifelike gameplay experience.

For gamers seeking style and personalization, the controller features a three-part magnetic swappable faceplate, along with two additional D-pads for ergonomic variety. The G7 Pro faceplate is also compatible with previous G7 series designs, expanding customization options.

Completing the premium package is a Smart Auto Start-Stop Charging Station bundled with a built-in 1200mAh battery for extended wireless play. The station includes an integrated receiver storage bay, offering convenience and organization between sessions. Audio support is also top-tier, with 3.5mm headset compatibility available over both wired and 2.4G wireless connections.

Unlocking the full potential of the G7 Pro is the newly developed GameSir Nexus 2.0 software, a powerful customization suite offering features like gyroscope configuration, stick curve adjustment, and button-to-mouse mapping—delivering unmatched personalization across gameplay styles.

The GameSir G7 Pro supports Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Steam, and Android, and comes packaged with a charging station, receiver, dual D-pads, a cable retainer, and a 3-meter Type-C cable.

The GameSir G7 Pro is available for $79.99/£79.99 from  Amazon US ,  Amazon UK ,  Best Buy  and the  GameSir website.

Media Kit and High resolution imagery of the GameSir G7 Pro available  here

About GameSir:

Founded in 2013, GameSir is one of the world’s leading providers of high-performance gaming peripherals, providing high-tech gaming hardware and excellent gaming experience for every gamer. In the name of “Just in Game”, GameSir knows exactly what each gamer really crave – the accurate control and enhanced gaming experience. Therefore, GameSir has been testing every potential solution to meet the needs of gamers, which is the GameSir mission.

For more information, visit www.gamesir.com

The post PR: GameSir Launches G7 Pro: A Next-Gen Controller Engineered for Precision, Performance, and Platform Versatility appeared first on Armchair Arcade.