Calling all Adepts! Prepare to unleash your Psynergy, for a long-awaited treasure has risen from the depths of gaming history: Golden Sun and its beloved sequel, The Lost Age, are now available on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack! This is more than just a nostalgic throwback – it’s a chance for a new generation to discover the magic and wonder of Weyard, a vibrant world teeming with elemental powers and thrilling adventures.
A Golden Return:
Golden Sun, released in 2001, captivated players with its charming story, engaging turn-based combat, and a unique Psynergy system that allowed characters to manipulate the elements. Follow the journey of Felix and his friends as they embark on a quest to restore balance to Weyard, facing off against formidable enemies and unraveling ancient secrets along the way.
The Lost Age Continues the Adventure:
The Lost Age takes place directly after the events of the first game, thrusting players into a thrilling new chapter. The stakes are higher, the mysteries deeper, and the Psynergy battles more epic. Prepare to reunite with familiar faces, encounter new allies and adversaries, and explore even more of Weyard’s breathtaking landscapes.
More Than Just Nostalgia:
Golden Sun and The Lost Age aren’t just relics of the Game Boy Advance era. Their timeless charm, engaging gameplay, and heartwarming story resonate with players of all ages. The addition of these classic RPGs to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack opens doors for a new generation to experience the magic of Weyard and forge their own Adeptic legends.
For veteran Adepts, the Switch Online versions offer some welcome enhancements:
Save states: Never lose your progress again with the ability to create save states at any point in your journey.
Fast forward: Speed up battles and exploration to revisit your favorite moments at a quicker pace.
Visual filters: Choose from a variety of filters to customize the visuals and add a touch of nostalgia or a modern flair.
A Bright Future for Weyard:
The arrival of Golden Sun and The Lost Age on Nintendo Switch Online is not just a win for fans of the series – it’s a testament to the enduring power of classic gaming. With a passionate community and the potential for future installments, Weyard’s future is looking brighter than ever.
So, Adepts, are you ready to unleash your Psynergy once more? Share your excitement, memories, and hopes for the future of Golden Sun in the comments below! Let’s celebrate the return of these beloved classics and welcome a new generation to the wonders of Weyard!
Buckle Up, Xbox Fans! 2024 Promises a Thrill Ride of Exhilarating Games
As the curtain closes on 2023, Xbox gamers can’t help but feel the electric hum of anticipation for what 2024 holds. From long-awaited exclusives to genre-bending surprises, the year promises a smorgasbord of gaming delights ready to tantalize our taste buds. So, grab your controllers, Xbox enthusiasts, and let’s delve into the juicy highlights waiting to explode onto our screens!
Epic Exclusives Take Center Stage:
Get ready for the heavy hitters! 2024 marks the triumphant arrival of titles that have been simmering in development for years. Starfield, Bethesda’s epic space odyssey, promises to send us on a mind-bending interstellar adventure, while Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 will plunge us into the depths of psychosis with unparalleled psychological realism. And let’s not forget Ark 2, where dinosaurs and primal survival converge in a breathtaking open world. These exclusives alone are enough to make 2024 a banner year for Xbox.
A Spectrum of Genre Gems:
But Xbox isn’t just about blockbuster sequels. 2024 brings a kaleidoscope of diverse experiences. Gear up for the next evolution of competitive shooters with Redfall, from Arkane Studios, where vampires roam a sun-starved city and your squad stands as humanity’s last hope. For a more cerebral adventure, Contraband Police, published by Xbox Game Studios, will test your moral compass as you navigate the complexities of law enforcement in a gritty, open-world setting. And if you crave a dose of pure, unadulterated adrenaline, Indiana Jones promises to whisk you on a globe-trotting treasure hunt filled with classic Indy charm and whip-cracking action.
Game Pass Keeps the Feast Going:
Of course, no Xbox discussion is complete without mentioning Game Pass. This subscription service continues to be a gamer’s dream, offering an ever-expanding library of titles for a single monthly fee. In 2024, expect even more beloved franchises and indie darlings to grace Game Pass, with rumors hinting at the inclusion of Persona 5 Royal and the long-awaited STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl.
Beyond the Horizon:
But wait, there’s more! The Xbox landscape stretches far beyond our current view. Hidden in the developer studios, projects like the mysterious Avowed from Obsidian Entertainment and the sci-fi epic Starfield promise to keep us enthralled for years to come. And with whispers of the Forza Horizon 6 location already making the rounds, gearheads can start dreaming of exotic new locales to conquer.
2024: A Year to Remember for Xbox:
As we stand on the precipice of a new year, one thing is clear: Xbox is poised for a phenomenal 2024. With groundbreaking exclusives, diverse genre offerings, and a Game Pass service bursting with potential, the year promises to be a non-stop thrill ride for every kind of gamer. So, buckle up, Xbox Nation, because 2024 is shaping up to be a year we’ll be talking about for years to come!
Which Xbox highlights are you most excited about in 2024? Share your predictions and hopes in the comments below! Let’s get the conversation started and celebrate the future of Xbox gaming!
Activision Blizzard, the gaming giant behind popular franchises like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft, is facing backlash from its quality assurance (QA) workers over a new mandatory return-to-office policy. The policy, which was announced in October 2023, requires all QA workers to return to the office full-time starting in January 2024.
Reasons for the Protest
The policy has been met with strong opposition from many QA workers, who argue that it is unfair and impractical. They cite a number of reasons for their opposition, including:
The cost of relocation and commuting: Many QA workers live far from the company’s offices, and they would have to incur significant costs to relocate or commute. For example, a QA worker living in Orange County, California, would have to face an average commute time of over an hour and pay high gas prices to reach the company’s headquarters in Santa Monica.
The impact on childcare and eldercare: Many QA workers have childcare or eldercare responsibilities that would be difficult to manage if they had to go back to the office full-time. A survey conducted by the ABK Workers Alliance found that 70% of respondents had childcare or eldercare responsibilities that would be impacted by the return-to-office policy.
The effectiveness of remote work: Many QA workers have been working remotely for the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and they have been productive and efficient during that time. A study by Stanford University found that remote workers were 13% more productive than their in-office counterparts.
Calling it a “Soft Layoff”
The ABK Workers Alliance, a union representing Activision Blizzard workers, has called the new policy a “soft layoff.” They argue that it will force many QA workers to quit their jobs, as they will not be able to afford to relocate or commute, or they will not be able to find childcare or eldercare. The union estimates that up to 30% of QA workers could be forced to leave the company as a result of the policy.
Activision Blizzard’s Response
Activision Blizzard has defended the new policy, saying that it is necessary to improve collaboration and communication among employees. The company has also said that it will offer some financial assistance to help employees with relocation costs. However, the amount of financial assistance offered has been criticized by the union as being inadequate.
The Union’s Demands
The ABK Workers Alliance is demanding that Activision Blizzard rescind the mandatory return-to-office policy and allow QA workers to continue working remotely. They are also demanding that the company provide better pay and benefits for QA workers. QA workers are some of the lowest-paid employees at Activision Blizzard, and they often have to work long hours under demanding conditions.
The Future of the Dispute
It is unclear how the dispute between Activision Blizzard and its QA workers will be resolved. The union has said that it is prepared to take legal action if the company does not rescind the policy. The outcome of this dispute could have a significant impact on the future of remote work in the gaming industry.
Additional Notes
This is an ongoing story, and new developments may emerge in the coming days and weeks.
I have tried to present the facts of the situation in a neutral and objective manner.
I have included links to sources so that you can learn more about the story.
Forget blurry pixels and clunky controls. The Oculus Quest Pro shatters the limitations of virtual reality, ushering in an era of hyper-realism that will make you question where the digital ends and the real begins. Prepare to be swept away by:
Oceans of OLED: Forget jaggy edges and pixelated landscapes. The Quest Pro boasts stunning OLED displays, painting virtual worlds with vibrant colors and unparalleled clarity. Immerse yourself in lush jungles so detailed you can practically smell the damp earth, or explore alien vistas so breathtaking they’ll leave you breathless.
Eye on the Prize: Forget clunky controllers and awkward movements. The Quest Pro’s cutting-edge eye-tracking technology takes virtual interaction to a whole new level. Your gaze is your command, allowing you to navigate menus, manipulate objects, and even express emotions with uncanny precision. Imagine summoning a weapon with a mere glance, or having your avatar mirror your real-world smirk – it’s a level of immersion that’s simply mind-blowing.
A Symphony of Senses: The Quest Pro doesn’t just paint a picture; it orchestrates a symphony of senses. Spatial audio soaks you in every rustle and roar, while haptic feedback lets you feel the coarse grip of a virtual weapon or the gentle caress of a digital breeze. It’s like stepping into a living, breathing world, where virtual reality becomes a tangible extension of your own.
Beyond the Battlefield: The Quest Pro isn’t just for slaying dragons and conquering galaxies. It’s a portal to endless possibilities. Work in a virtual office, collaborate with colleagues across the globe, or step into the shoes of historical figures through immersive educational experiences. The Quest Pro is a canvas for imagination, a tool for productivity, and a gateway to a world where anything is possible.
A New Reality Beckons: The Oculus Quest Pro isn’t just a gadget; it’s a revolution. It’s a leap into the future, a blurring of the lines between reality and the digital realm. It’s a chance to experience the world in ways never before possible, to unleash your creativity, and to connect with others in ways that transcend physical limitations. So, are you ready to take the plunge? Are you ready to dive into the hyper-real world of the Oculus Quest Pro? The future of reality is waiting, and it’s time to answer the call.
This article expands on the initial description, adding sensory details, potential applications beyond gaming, and a touch of excitement to entice readers to explore the possibilities of the Oculus Quest Pro. Remember, you can customize the tone and content further to fit your specific audience and publication.
After more than two years since the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) initiated a high-profile lawsuit against Activision Blizzard, alleging extensive gender discrimination and pay disparities, the two parties have reached a settlement of approximately $54 million.
The Wall Street Journal broke the news of the settlement on Friday, followed by a statement from the CRD on its website. Pending court approval, Activision Blizzard will undertake additional measures to enhance fair pay and promotion practices within the company, as outlined in the settlement, which also includes providing monetary relief to women employed by or contracting with Activision Blizzard between October 12, 2015, and December 31, 2020. The CRD indicates that approximately $45 million of the settlement will be allocated to a fund for compensating affected workers. Any surplus funds will be directed to charitable organizations, with a focus on advancing women in video games and tech or supporting initiatives that raise awareness of gender equality issues in the workplace.
The lawsuit against Activision Blizzard, filed by the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (formerly known as the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing), in 2021 stemmed from a two-year investigation. The legal action alleged multiple violations of California’s Equal Pay Act and Fair Employment and Housing Act, citing a pervasive “frat boy” culture that discriminated against women within the company.
Despite Activision Blizzard’s repeated denials, the lawsuit persisted, and the company’s attempt to have it dismissed was unsuccessful in October 2022. The controversy surrounding the lawsuit was one of the factors influencing Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision, with the latter’s stock facing significant declines.
Bobby Kotick, the contentious CEO, has confirmed his tenure will extend only until the end of 2023 post the acquisition, and no new CEO has been appointed yet.
According to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal, the regulatory body initially sought a settlement far exceeding the one reached with Riot Games in December 2021. In 2021, the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing estimated Activision Blizzard’s potential liability to be close to $1 billion.
The individual behind an unofficial PC port of the Game Boy Color classic Link’s Awakening, which gained widespread attention on social media, has taken it down from itch.io following a takedown notice from Nintendo.
The creator, ‘linksawakeningdxhd,’ had uploaded a PC port of 1998’s Link’s Awakening DX, featuring HD visuals, 120fps scrolling, and widescreen support. However, the game’s files were suspended after Nintendo issued a copyright claim.
The takedown notice, published on itch.io, is reproduced below:
To Whom It May Concern:
I am an authorized representative of Nintendo of America Inc., owner of the following copyrighted material:
PA0002212311 (The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening) and PA0000772666 (Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (Game Boy version).
It has come to our attention that the following game, https://linksawakeningdxhd.itch.io/links-awakening-dx-hd, offered on Itch.io infringes and makes unauthorized use of Nintendo’s copyrights in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening video game.
Please act expeditiously to remove the download and information page for the infringing game.
I have a good faith belief that the material is not authorized by the intellectual property owner, its agent, or the law. The information provided in the notice is accurate, and I swear under penalty of perjury that I am authorized to make the complaint on behalf of the intellectual property owner.
Sincerely, Nintendo Legal Nintendo of America Inc. 4600 150th Avenue NE Redmond, WA 98052 425-882-2040 [email protected]
The port garnered attention for allowing players to zoom out for a complete view of Koholint Island, with all NPCs and enemies remaining active.
I've found out that there's a port of Zelda Link's Awakening for PC and I'm amazed with it. This version not only offers widescreen support, but the game now runs at a single screen without any transitions and you can zoom out to see more of the overworld. pic.twitter.com/yQBbbFeytn
PlayStation Plus is currently on sale once again post-Black Friday, though the discount is less substantial. This offer is applicable only for new subscribers or those with expired PS Plus memberships. The sale provides a 30% discount on specific 12-month subscriptions, limited to Extra and Premium plans. Unfortunately, existing Essential or Extra tier members won’t benefit from upgrade or stackable discounts, and there are no additional discounts with PS gift cards, as seen during Black Friday.
It’s important to note that this deal is active until December 17, offering a limited window for interested individuals to avail themselves of the discounted rates.
PlayStation Plus Extra 12-Month Subscription: $94.49 (originally $134.99)
PlayStation Plus Premium 12-Month Subscription: $111.99 (originally $159.99)
This PS Plus offer commenced on December 11, and while it was initially overlooked during the Seasons of Play sale announcement, it remains available. Additionally, the ongoing deal for PS5 slim bundles at $499, including a free game, continues after Black Friday. Note: Some users may encounter difficulties accessing the PS Plus discount on their first attempt.
PlayStation Plus is set to undergo a price increase in 2023. Here are all the details regarding the change
The current top-notch PS5 deal offers savings on a Spider-Man 2 PS5 bundle. This package includes the latest game, the standard console, and a DualSense wireless controller. Priced at $499, it represents an 11% discount from its regular $559.99 price. Additionally, there are savings available on this bundle with the new Slim PS5 console, as detailed below.
Top PS5 Deal: Spider-Man 2 Slim Bundle Available for $499
The current best PS5 deal allows you to save on a Spider-Man 2 PS5 bundle, featuring the new game, the standard console, and a DualSense wireless controller. Priced at $499, it’s an 11% discount from its usual $559.99. Additionally, there are savings available on a bundle with the new Slim PS5 console, as detailed below.
GTA 5 Takes the Spotlight in the PS Plus Game Catalog for December
December brings an exciting lineup to the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog, headlined by Rockstar’s GTA 5. This addition coincides with the recent launch of GTA Online: The Chop Shop update, introducing new content like a Salvage Yard business and Drift Races. The full list of games for December includes:
Grand Theft Auto 5 | PS4, PS5
Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin | PS4, PS5
MotoGP 23 | PS4, PS5
Metal: Hellsinger | PS4, PS5
Salt and Sacrifice | PS4, PS5
Moonscars | PS4, PS5
Mega Man 11 | PS4
Gigabash | PS4, PS5
Grime | PS4, PS5
Tinykin | PS4, PS5
Prodeus | PS4, PS5
Shadowrun Returns | PS4, PS5
Shadowrun: Dragonfall – Director’s Cut | PS4, PS5
Shadowrun: Hong Kong – Extended Edition | PS4, PS5
Is PS Plus Premium Worth the Investment?
PlayStation Plus underwent a transformation in the summer of 2022, introducing a three-tiered membership structure. Similar to popular streaming subscriptions like Netflix and Disney+, the higher the tier you subscribe to, the more benefits you unlock.
PS Plus Essential: This tier is the core offering, providing access to online play, cloud saves, two free games every month, and discounts on the PS Store.
PS Plus Extra: Moving up a tier, Extra offers new PS4 and PS5 games each month, expanding the game library with around 400 titles, and includes all the features of the Essential tier.
PS Plus Premium: Opting for the Premium plan grants additional access to PS1, PS2, PSP, and PS3 titles, in addition to the benefits provided by the Extra and Essential tiers.
In summary, if you’re keen on playing more PS4 and PS5 games, Extra is the ideal choice. For those feeling nostalgic and seeking access to a broader range of titles, Premium is the top-tier option. If online play is your primary focus, Essential provides all the necessary features. The breakdown aims to simplify the decision-making process based on your gaming preferences.
The Epic Games Store’s extensive Holiday Sale is in full swing, featuring a daily giveaway of free games. Starting on December 19, players can add a substantial free game to their library. Destiny 2: Legacy Collection, comprising three expansions, is available for free on the Epic Games Store until December 20.
Epic Games Store Holiday Sale 2023: Discounts and Free Games Galore
Commencing on December 19, the Epic Games Store is set to feature a daily giveaway of free games, with notable titles likely to be unveiled on Christmas Day. Throughout the giveaway period until January 4, 2024, users can anticipate a mix of AAA and indie games to enhance their gaming library.
In tandem with the free game offerings, the Holiday Sale 2023 on the Epic Games Store boasts enticing discounts on popular titles such as Alan Wake II, FC 24, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Hogwarts Legacy, Red Dead Redemption 2, Mortal Kombat I, and more. Additionally, users will receive a 33% discount coupon applicable to any purchase exceeding $14.99 (approximately INR 1,249) during the sale. This coupon can be applied to already discounted games, providing users with additional savings, or utilized for purchasing multiple games at an attractive bundled price.
Here are some standout deals on games featured in the Epic Games Holiday Sale 2023:
Game
Price
Alan Wake II
INR 2198.4 (20% off)
FC 24
INR 1399.6 (60% off)
Assassin’s Creed Mirage
INR 1749.3 (60% off)
Dead Island 2
INR 1979.4 (40% off)
Hogwarts Legacy
INR 2399.4 (40% off)
Mortal Kombat 1
INR 2699.4 (40% off)
Payday 3
INR 1679.25 (25% off)
Red Dead Redemption 2
INR 1,055.67 (67% off)
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
INR 1,749.50 (50% off)
Dead by Daylight: Ultimate Edition
INR 1,374.50 (50% off)
LEGO 2K Drive
INR 1,121.67 (67% off)
The Last of Us Part I
INR 2,679.33 (33% off)
Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
INR 2,399.40 (40% off)
Dead Space
INR 1,199.60 (60% off)
God of War
INR 1,649.50 (50% off)
Claim Destiny 2: Legacy Collection for free on the Epic Games Store
The Destiny 2: Legacy Collection encompasses three expansions—Shadowkeep (2019), Beyond Light (2021), and The Witch Queen (2022). It features 37 potent Exotic weapons, 15 Exotic armor pieces, and provides access to the Stasis subclass. You can now acquire the game for free on the Epic Games Store.
In response to a viral topless stream featuring an OnlyFans model, Twitch has updated its sexual content guidelines. The changes now permit “artistic depictions of nudity,” including erotic dances, body writing, and content that highlights certain body regions, as long as it is properly labeled. The updated guidelines also address nudity in gaming, differentiating between prohibited pornographic games and those with incidental nudity. The move has sparked discussions and humor on social media under the trending term “Artistic Nudity.”
Twitch has faced ongoing challenges in managing sexual content on its platform
Twitch has encountered ongoing challenges in managing explicit content, with incidents like the “hot tub meta” in 2021, where streamers engaged in suggestive behavior in jacuzzis. In 2022, Twitch removed a feature that was exploited to promote explicit content on its front page. Recently, an OnlyFans model named Morgpie garnered attention for seemingly appearing topless on a stream while cleverly staying within Twitch’s guidelines. This incident sparked discussions among Twitch users, prompting the platform to clarify its rules. Despite operating within the terms of service, Morgpie faced a ban shortly after the incident. The ambiguity in Twitch’s guidelines and the ensuing debates highlight the ongoing struggle to strike a balance on the platform. Twitch is now seeking feedback and considering personalized viewer settings for the future.
OnePlus enters the keyboard arena with the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro, signaling a shift from its primary focus on mobile phones. Collaborating with Keychron, renowned for high-quality mechanical keyboards, OnePlus has adapted and introduced tweaks to the existing Keychron Q1 Pro, presenting the 81 Pro as its inaugural mechanical keyboard offering.
Features and Design of the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro: Upon unboxing, the standout characteristic of the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro is its substantial weight. The CNC aluminum body not only imparts a robust and durable feel but also tips the scales at a considerable 1.8 kg, making it a heavyweight contender in the keyboard realm. Inside the packaging, users will find additional foam gaskets, thanks to the double gasket mounting, enhancing the overall build quality.
OnePlus goes the extra mile by including a keycap and switch puller, spare screws, and a hex key (Allen key) for enthusiasts keen on customization. Catering to those who prefer wired connections, a 2-meter USB Type-C to Type-C cable, sporting OnePlus’s distinctive bright Red hue, is provided. What sets it apart is the inclusion of a USB Type-A dongle, offering versatility for usage in both USB-C and A ports—an added convenience for users.
Discover the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro’s full potential as we delve into its performance and usability.
Now, let’s delve into the design of the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro. Embracing a clean and work-centric aesthetic, it exudes sophistication. The volume knob on the right side is not merely functional; it’s a visual delight with a diamond-like luster and tactile steps that feel rubbery. This feature adds both functionality and elegance, making volume adjustments a quick and enjoyable task. The OnePlus branding is subtle, with a red “Escape” key showcasing the company logo and a matching red “Enter” key – a tasteful nod to the brand without overwhelming the design. Turning the keyboard over reveals the company’s “Never Settle” tagline, maintaining a clean and minimalist appearance without flashy logos.
The OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro adopts a 75% layout, a smart decision that optimizes desk space by omitting the Numpad area. Despite this space-saving choice, it retains essential keys like Page Up, Page Down, and Home on the right side. Interestingly, the keyboard comes with Mac keycaps by default, requiring a simple swap for the included Windows keys – a user-friendly customization touch.
The bottom features a feet bar that serves not only to adjust the keyboard’s angle and height but can also hold the keyboard upright, creating extra desk space when needed. While this is a noteworthy feature, its practicality might be overlooked, as users may forget about it in the midst of their work. It’s a reminder of the subtle yet ingenious features our gadgets offer.
Let’s delve into the essential details of the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro – the keycaps, pricing, and connectivity. In my hands, I had the Winter Bonfire variant equipped with Red tactile switches. OnePlus has adorned this version with PBT keycaps, crafted from high-quality polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) plastic. These keycaps boast solidity and resilience, maintaining their integrity without succumbing to the common issue of developing an oily shine from prolonged use. The sleek Dark Grey color scheme complements the premium feel, all priced at ₹16,999.
For those eyeing the Summer Breeze version with Blue linear switches, OnePlus introduces the Marble-mallow keycaps, adding a playful touch. These keycaps exhibit a soft and flexible nature, noticeable when squeezed off the keyboard. Adorned in a light Grey color scheme, this variant comes with a slightly higher price tag of INR 19,999.
Having transitioned from the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro to my previous Asus TUF Gaming K3, the tactile experience was noticeably different. Setting aside the price difference – with the Asus keyboard priced at ₹5,000 – the TUF keyboard felt somewhat plastic-like, making me yearn for the premium feel of the OnePlus keyboard’s keycaps.
Despite the redundancy of the Page and Home keys for my usage, the Delete key’s placement next to the volume knob proved quite handy. Adapting to the arrow keys’ location required some time, but once accustomed, their usage became comfortable. Individual preferences for key travel may vary, but I found the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro remarkably comfortable, providing responsive spring-back feedback and an overall satisfying typing experience.
As a lover of the clackity sounds of a keyboard, the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro’s tactile switches produced music to my ears. The keyboard emitted refined clicks, offering a gratifying typing experience without being excessively loud or harsh.
Crafted for Enthusiasts: A Comprehensive Review of the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro
Battery Performance of the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro: Equipped with a 4000mAh battery, the keyboard demonstrates commendable longevity in Bluetooth mode, lasting for a few days on average. It’s worth noting that if you activate the RGB lights, the battery will deplete at a quicker rate. In my usage, I tended to favor the wired connection to ensure a consistent power source.
Software Customization: Unlike some competitors, OnePlus doesn’t provide proprietary customization software for the Keyboard 81 Pro – a notable advantage. Owners can utilize third-party options, such as QMK and VIA, commonly supported by Keychron keyboards. These tools enable extensive configurations, allowing users to personalize keymapping, create macros, adjust language ISO layouts, and more. The QMK web app, accessible through a browser, offers a quick and seamless experience for remapping keys, creating macros, and tweaking lighting. Alternatively, the VIA app, available for installation, provides another avenue for software-based customization.
Value for Money: For keyboard enthusiasts exploring premium options like the Keychron Q1 Pro, the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro presents a compelling choice. Offering Bluetooth functionality and distinctive keycaps, it comes with the added benefit of well-established after-sales support from OnePlus. On the other hand, if wireless connectivity isn’t essential, the Keychron Q1 offers a more budget-friendly alternative, sacrificing wireless capabilities for a lower price. In the sub-INR 10,000 range, Keychron also offers several alternatives.
Where to Buy: As of the review’s writing, the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro is exclusively available for purchase on the OnePlus website.
The Verdict: The OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro stands out as a heavyweight contender, both in its physical build and overall appeal. With a robust construction, stylish design, and catering to high-end keyboard enthusiasts, it introduces Bluetooth functionality and premium keycaps, delivering a comfortable typing experience. While the absence of backlit lettering and dependency on third-party tools may be drawbacks for some, the keyboard’s hot-swappable keycaps and switches offer customization options. If you have even a mild interest in mechanical keyboards and prioritize after-sales support, the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro is a worthwhile investment.
