Kategorie: News

  • Code faster with the new Arduino AI Assistant

    Code faster with the new Arduino AI Assistant

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    We’re very excited to share that the Arduino AI Assistant is now available in the Arduino Cloud Editor! This expert coding companion truly understands your project and board, and can generate and fix your code in seconds.

    We know that many of you already use other AI tools to assist with coding, but switching back and forth between different platforms is frustrating. That’s why we built an AI Assistant directly into the Cloud Editor, where it has the full context of your project and can make coding easier, faster, and more intuitive than ever before.

    By taking care of repetitive setup tasks and generating reliable boilerplate code, the Arduino AI Assistant lets you spend more time exploring, experimenting, and building. It’s a powerful extension of your own creativity. After all, it’s not about replacing learning, it’s about assisting it, one smart suggestion at a time.

    Arduino + Cloud: coding with AI

    The Arduino AI Assistant, powered by Anthropic Claude, is designed to help you at every stage of development:

    • Generate code quickly – Just tell it what you want to build, and it will write the sketch for you.
    • Fix bugs instantly – if there is a mistake in the code, let the AI analyze and suggest corrections.
    • Provide explanations – Need help understanding a function? The Assistant can break it down for you.

    To showcase its power, let’s dive into 2 quick demos and see how the Arduino AI Assistant can transform your coding experience! 

    Demo 1: Generating an Arduino sketch

    With the AI Assistant, you can bypass manual coding and debugging to create simple animations on an LED matrix. For instance, you can instruct the Assistant to animate a column of four LEDs moving from left to right across the display.

    Step-by-step:

    1. Open the Arduino Cloud Editor and navigate to the AI Assistant panel.
    2. Type: “I want to draw on the LED matrix a column of 4 LEDs that is moving from left to right over time.”
    3. Instantly, the AI generates a functional Arduino sketch, complete with pin configurations and logic.
    4. You can tweak the code as needed and upload it to your board right away!

    The AI Assistant instantly generates the Arduino sketch, saving you time and effort. You can then upload the code and watch as your LED matrix displays the smooth animation exactly as you envisioned.

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8OSdhaBe-M?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    Demo 2: Debugging help

    Imagine you’re working on a project where you want to read temperature and humidity data from a DHT11 sensor and display it on an LCD. You write the code, but when you try to compile it, you get an error. Frustrated, you turn to the AI Assistant for help.

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwwk91yLVxQ?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    Unlock more with Arduino Cloud

    The great news is that everyone can code faster with Arduino Cloud’s AI Assistant! All users receive 25 free daily compilations and 30 monthly AI Assistant chats.

    If you’re an individual user looking to code more with AI, you can upgrade to a Maker Plan which offers unlimited compilations and expands AI interactions to 1,500 per month.

    If you’re part of a business looking to take advantage of the AI Assistant and other premium features, the Team or Enterprise Plans will give you access to unlimited compilations.

    Try the Arduino Cloud AI Assistant out for free

    If you want to try out any plan, you can enjoy a 30-day free trial! It’s a great way to explore all the possibilities before committing. And you can cancel anytime!

    Also, we’d love to hear what you think! Inside the Cloud Editor, you’ll see thumbs up and down buttons next to the AI output — just give it a quick tap. If you hit the thumb down button, you’ll get the chance to tell us what didn’t work so we can keep making it better for you.

    Get started

    AI Assistant FAQ

    1. Where can I find the AI Assistant in Arduino Cloud?

    It’s super easy! Just head over to app.arduino.cc, open an existing sketch or create a new one. Then, look for the ? magic star icon at the bottom of the left-hand menu—that’s your gateway to the AI Assistant. Click it, type your prompt in the chatbox, and let the Assistant help you write or fix your code in seconds.

    2. Is the AI Assistant free to use?

    Yes! You can try the AI Assistant for free with up to 30 interactions per month. If you need more, the Maker Plan ($6.99/month) gives you up to 1500 interactions. And for unlimited access, you can upgrade to our Team or Enterprise plans. To see all the options, check out cloud.arduino.cc/plans.

    The post Code faster with the new Arduino AI Assistant appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • tinyML in Malawi: Empowering local communities through technology

    tinyML in Malawi: Empowering local communities through technology

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Dr. David Cuartielles, co-founder of Arduino, recently participated in a workshop titled “TinyML for Sustainable Development” in Zomba, organized by the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), a category 1 UNESCO institute, and the University of Malawi. Bringing together students, educators, and professionals from Malawi and neighboring countries, as well as international experts from Brazil, Slovenia, Italy, and Sweden, the event aimed to introduce participants to tiny machine learning (tinyML) and its applications in addressing global challenges, bringing cutting-edge technology to new frontiers.

    The workshop was supported by various global organizations and companies, including RAiDO, ICTP, NAiXus, UNESCO’s IRC-AI, the EDGE AI FOUNDATION, ITU’s AI-4-Good, CRAFS, and the Ministry of Education of Malawi. As part of our commitment to supporting educational initiatives that promote technological empowerment and sustainable development worldwide, Arduino contributed by donating equipment for the hands-on sessions, enabling participants to gain practical experience with embedded systems and machine learning.

    Cuartielles – who centered his session on an introduction to Nicla Vision – is a long-time supporter of the importance of providing access to advanced technologies in regions with limited resources. He believes that such communities can leapfrog traditional development stages by adopting innovative solutions tailored to their specific needs. During the workshop, participants engaged in projects focusing on agriculture, health, and environmental monitoring, demonstrating the potential of tinyML in improving local livelihoods.

    “You cannot imagine the pride of seeing things work, when students and teachers from different countries or regions join to learn about our technology, and about how they can apply it in their own education programs or everyday implementation cases,” Cuartielles says.

    For those interested in learning more about the workshop and its content, all presentation slides and resources are available online. 

    In partnership with

    The post tinyML in Malawi: Empowering local communities through technology appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • How to bring digital literacy into your classroom: practical tips from the Hello World podcast

    How to bring digital literacy into your classroom: practical tips from the Hello World podcast

    Reading Time: 4 minutes
    Teacher tips: Digital literacy thumbnail. The background of the image comprises of a still taken from the episode, featuring Hello World podcast host James Robinson on the right of the image. The episode title 'Teacher tips: Digital literacy' is overlayed on the left of the screen. The Hello World logo has been superimposed on the top right hand corner of the image.

    Are you looking to strengthen digital literacy in your classroom? In the latest episode of the Hello World podcast, three experienced teachers from the USA and the UK share practical tips they’ve used in their classrooms to help their students build digital literacy. Whether you’re just getting started with digital literacy or looking for new ideas, the episode is full of real-world advice you can apply straight away.

    Behind the scenes image of the team recording an episode of the Hello World podcast.
    Behind the scenes whilst recording the Teacher Tips: Digital literacy episode of the Hello World podcast.

    The episode also marks the launch of a new mini-series on the Hello World podcast focusing on digital literacy. Throughout the series, which totals three episodes, we’ll continue conversations that feature in the latest issue of the Hello World magazine, sharing expert insights and real-world examples from educators who are integrating digital literacy into their classrooms.

    So tune in this week, then stay tuned!

    Who features in this episode, and what will I learn?

    We’ve got tips from three teachers whose articles feature in Hello World’s newest magazine issue.

    Katie Dahlman from Bloomington, MN, USA

    Get ready for some top tips from Katie Dahlman, a preschool teacher and Digital Learning Specialist in Bloomington Public Schools in Minnesota, USA. With over 16 years of experience as an early childhood educator, Katie has dedicated her time to developing engaging computer science (CS) lessons for young learners.

    Headshot of Katie Dahlamn, a guest teacher who featured on the 'Teacher tips: Digital literacy' episode of the Hello World podcast.

    Katie believes that digital literacy starts with building foundational skills to prepare students for their roles as digital citizens. One of the tips Katie shares in the episode emphasises the importance of integrating computational thinking into the classroom: 

    “My second tip for enhancing digital literacy in your classroom is to integrate computational thinking skills and vocabulary into your existing curriculum.”

    Read Katie’s article ‘Tech tinkering and teamwork’ on pages 52–53 of Hello World, issue 26.

    Curt Hitchens from Rock Spring, GA, USA

    We also hear from Curt Hitchens, a computer science teacher at Saddle Ridge Elementary and Middle School in Rock Spring, Georgia, USA. Since 2018, Curt has been teaching computer science and now serves as a Virtual CS Specialist for the Georgia Department of Education.

    Headshot of Curt Hitchens, a guest teacher who featured on the 'Teacher tips: Digital literacy' episode of the Hello World podcast.

    Curt explains in the podcast that digital literacy is about equipping students with the necessary skills to use technology effectively in everyday situations and the workplace. He also shares an important tip for teachers, encouraging them to give students regular chances to engage in hands-on learning:

     “Make sure that you’re providing consistent opportunities for creation and exploration within your classes.”

    Read Curt’s article ‘Computer science opportunities in rural schools’ on pages 46–47 of Issue 26.

    Halima Bhayat, London, UK

    The episode also features Halima Bhayat, the Head of Computing and Digital T Levels at Ursuline High School in London, UK. Halima is an Asian Women of Achievement 2021 Finalist, a digit<all> ambassador, an Amazon teacher, and the Computing at School Merton lead for all schools.

    Headshot of Halima Bhayat, a guest teacher who featured on the 'Teacher tips: Digital literacy' episode of the Hello World podcast.

    With a wealth of experience, she emphasises that digital literacy is more than about using technology — it’s about understanding how the digital world functions, how technology shapes our daily lives, and how it impacts individuals and communities.

    One of Halima’s top tips for enhancing digital literacy in the classroom is to focus on touch typing. She believes that students should be equipped with fast and efficient typing skills, as so many tasks today are online.

    “My first tip would be to get [your students] touch typing, get them to start becoming faster with their fingers on those keyboards, because lots of things have become online.”

    Read Halima’s article ‘From switches to success’ on pages 76–77 of Issue 26.

    Listen now

    To hear more practical tips and discover what else our guest teachers have to say, listen to or watch the full episode here. 

    We hope this episode inspires you and helps you to engage your students in computing. We’d love to hear your thoughts, your feedback, and any of your own tips on the topic of digital literacy in the comments section below.

    We hope you enjoy the episode!

    More to listen to next week

    Next week, the podcast brings you an insightful conversation featuring Rachel Arthur, Chief Learning Officer at the Raspberry Pi Foundation, Dr Jessica Hamer from King’s College London, and Becky Patel from Tech She Can.

    Photo of Dr. Jessica Hamer, Becky Patel and Rachel Arthur, on set of the Hello World podcast.

    They’ll discuss the current state of girls’ engagement in computing and explore ways to empower young women in computing at school, at university, and onwards into their careers.

    You can watch, or listen, to each episode of our podcast on YouTube, or listen via your preferred audio streaming service, whether that’s Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music. 

    Subscribe to Hello World today to ensure you never miss a podcast episode or issue of the magazine.

    Website: LINK

  • Find the right Arduino Cloud plan for you

    Find the right Arduino Cloud plan for you

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Arduino Cloud has grown tremendously over the past year, adding powerful features to make development smoother and IoT deployments more scalable. From real-time collaboration to interactive digital twins on a dashboard and AI-powered coding assistance, our platform has evolved to support everyone.

    Now, if you tuned in to Arduino Days 2025 (watch the video), you may have heard that our Arduino Cloud plans are evolving! We’re simplifying and expanding our plans to make it even easier to find the right fit:

    • Makers and individuals get access to all premium features under a single Maker Plan.
    • Businesses and teams have a clearer path to growth with new professional and enterprise options.

    Arduino Cloud plans: what’s changing?

    • A clear path for businesses – Companies can now start small and scale up with Prototyping and Team Plans, designed to support professional IoT applications with multi-user collaboration, fleet management, and advanced data retention.
    • A unified Maker Plan – Hobbyists and individual developers now have one simple Maker Plan, with everything they need for IoT projects.
    • Free Plan remains available – Everyone can explore Arduino Cloud for free with support for up to 2 devices and essential features.
    Check out the plans in detail

    Choosing the right plan for you

    For makers and individual developers

    If you’re working on personal IoT projects, the Maker Plan gives you unlimited compilations, OTA updates, dashboard sharing, and AI-powered assistance – all in one plan.

    For startups and professional users

    If you’re building an IoT product or scaling a business, the Prototyping Deal lets you experiment with the full power of Arduino Cloud for 6 months at a special rate. When the period ends, you’ll seamlessly transition to the Team Plan to continue growing.

    For teams and enterprises

    The Team Plan provides RBAC (Role-Based Access Control), up to 50 users, and 100 devices – perfect for professional projects requiring security, white labeling, and efficient device management.

    Explore all plans on Arduino Cloud

    The evolution of Arduino Cloud

    Over the past year, we’ve introduced some major improvements to Arduino Cloud:

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HV4GWjxejvM?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    Watch the latest Arduino Cloud for Business video

    Frequently asked questions

    I’m on an Entry or Maker Plus Plan – do I need to switch?

    Nope! You can continue using your plan. But if you’d like more features, you can upgrade at a discounted rate. 

    I plan to use Arduino Cloud for my own business or professional application. Where do I start?

    The Prototyping Deal gives you six months to experiment with all Team Plan features at a special rate. After that, you’ll automatically transition to a monthly Team Plan ($100/month) for seamless continuity.

    What happens if I don’t want to continue after my six-month Prototyping Deal?

    You can cancel anytime before the end of your period to avoid automatic renewal.

    Can I still use Arduino Cloud for free?

    Yes! The Free Plan lets you explore Arduino Cloud with limited usage, supporting up to two devices for getting started.

    Ready to take your IoT projects to the next level? Try Arduino Cloud now!

    The post Find the right Arduino Cloud plan for you appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • Raspberry Pi Pico Ticket Game

    Raspberry Pi Pico Ticket Game

    Reading Time: < 1 minute

    Chris emailed us a little while ago (sorry, Chris!) about his fun little Raspberry Pi Pico project which he describes as “a simple stand-alone Q&A game or ice-breaker for a party, using a Pico, a thermal printer, and a big red button” – although we’d say the button is medium-size compared to the 100 mm ones we’ve seen/used in the past.

    pico ticket game

    According to the GitHub page for the project (which includes the build instructions too), it was made for a New Year’s event, and is easily modifiable. “I used a cigar box for the build, but it can fit into any suitable project box,” Chris says. Although we quite like the box ourselves.

  • Solar upgrades the Nebulophone synthesizer to enhance playability 

    Solar upgrades the Nebulophone synthesizer to enhance playability 

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    Woodwinds and brass are so 19th century. We’re living in the future and now it is synthesizers all the way down. There are many to choose from and the Bleep Labs Nebulophone is a neat example that was sold from 2012 to 2016, with the design files now available on GitHub for DIYers. Marcus Dunn liked how the Nebulophone sounds, but wanted it to be more practical. That’s why he developed this “Solar” upgrade that dramatically enhances the playability of the Nebulophone.

    The primary interface of the Nebulophone is a stylus keyboard integrated directly into the PCB. That was a design choice that saved a lot of money and has a lot of character, similar to the iconic Stylophone, but a stylus is a bit unwieldy during performances that include several pieces of equipment.

    Dunn’s Solar upgrade adds a tactile keyboard and repackages the entire thing so that it can fit in a Eurorack along with other modules. There is also a sync-in for using Solar with other synths.

    The audio circuitry is based on the original Nebulophone, but Dunn completely redesigned the PCB to accommodate the new features. In fact, Solar has two PCBs: one for the circuitry and one that mostly acts as a cover plate. It looks great with the Cherry MX key switches and key caps. 

    The brain of the operation is an Arduino Nano board and it runs the Nebulophone sketch, available on Dunn’s GitHub page. As Dunn demonstrates in his video, Solar sounds really cool and would be a great addition to your Eurorack. 

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggaYos6u02A?start=151&feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    The post Solar upgrades the Nebulophone synthesizer to enhance playability  appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • Raspberry Pi Foundation joins UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition

    Raspberry Pi Foundation joins UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Introduction

    We are thrilled to announce that the Raspberry Pi Foundation (RPF) has been accepted as a member of UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition (GEC). 

    Global Education Coalition.

    Initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when 1.6 billion learners were shut out of the classroom, the GEC aimed to provide continuity of education in times of crisis. Since then, the Coalition has grown into a global multistakeholder network, and we are proud to help drive education transformation and accelerate the path to achieving UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4 – Quality Education).

    UNESCO’s vision to transform education for the world’s most underserved aligns with our mission at the Raspberry Pi Foundation. Being part of the Coalition enables us to work together to achieve this shared aim. 

    In addition to being part of the GEC, we have been invited to join the Digital Transformation Collaborative (DTC), a tech-focused subgroup that empowers educators and education leaders to include emerging technologies in their teaching practices and decision-making through capacity building and training.

    Coalition achievements

    We’re joining a coalition that has already achieved a lot. Having attended the GEC annual conference last week in Paris, Ms Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, stated that to date the GTC has:

    • Helped over 858,898 youth develop skills that make them more employable
    • Trained 794,580 teachers
    • Offered learning resources to more than 1,000,000 learners studying foundational subjects, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
    • Reached 2,459,192 of the most marginalised girls and women

    Source: https://www.unesco.org/en/global-education-coalition

    Whilst these are amazing achievements to celebrate, there is still more work to do, with Ms Giannini also highlighting that there are currently 251 million children and youth out of school and that 44 million more teachers are needed for universal primary and secondary education by 2030. 

    A group of educators at a conference.

    Digital Transformation Collaborative

    Our commitment to the Coalition

    The Digital Transformation Collaborative (DTC), which the Foundation has committed to support, aims to play a crucial role in shaping the future of education through technology. The group has established a framework structured around six core pillars:

    1. Coordination and leadership
    2. Connectivity and infrastructure
    3. Cost and sustainability
    4. Capacity and culture
    5. Content and solutions
    6. Data and evidence

    Through our work at the Foundation, we believe we have the expertise to provide meaningful support through the sharing of our expertise across these issues. Many of these are challenges we work to overcome through the delivery of our programmes. 

    Six pillars for the digital transformation of education.

    Conclusion

    Joining UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition marks a significant milestone for the Raspberry Pi Foundation. Our mission to empower the underserved aligns with the Coalition’s goals. We are excited to contribute our expertise and resources to this global effort, driving forward the agenda for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

    I’m looking forward to writing more on our projects and initiatives within the GEC as we move forward and work together to transform global education.

    Website: LINK

  • Using a racing sim rig with a real RC car

    Using a racing sim rig with a real RC car

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    Most of us will never get a chance to drive a Ferrari F50 around the Nürburgring in real life, but we can all do so in a racing sim. To get the most out of that experience, many people build serious and elaborate racing sim rigs. What if one could use their racing sim rig to control something in the real world? That’s exactly what YouTuber bitsbits did by linking a racing sim rig to an actual, physical RC car.

    Traditional RC cars relied on fairly rudimentary analog signals, but complete digital control is common today. The transmitter simply sends encoded digital data containing whatever information is necessary, such as the steering angle and throttle position. Typically, that is a standard protocol that the receiver can understand and translate into motor movement.  

    In this case, the transmitter sends data that comes from the racing sim rig instead of joysticks and buttons. The rig connects to a PC that runs a Python script that turns inputs (steering wheel angle, brake pedal position, and so on) into simple values sent to an Arduino board. The Arduino then tells the RC transmitter what to control commands to send to the RC car’s receiver.

    An FPV (first-person view) camera on the car, with the video streamed to the rig, completes the experience. It is like miniaturizing oneself and sitting in the driver’s seat of the RC car!

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0sRbt8xrbY?start=56&feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    The post Using a racing sim rig with a real RC car appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • Introducing the Image Map widget: A smarter way to visualize your data

    Introducing the Image Map widget: A smarter way to visualize your data

    Reading Time: 4 minutes
    Visualize your data like never before with the Arduino Cloud Image Map Widget

    We’re excited to introduce the new Image Map Widget in Arduino Cloud! This powerful feature allows you to overlay live data onto an image, creating interactive and highly visual dashboards. Whether you’re managing a factory floor, an office space, or a piece of industrial equipment, this widget brings your data to life in a whole new way.

    In case you’re wondering how to use it, we’ve put together a few examples using some of our existing dashboards to help you understand how this feature can make your data easier to visualize.

    1. Create an interactive office floor plan

    Need a better way to monitor different areas of your office, home, or factory? With the Image Map Widget, you can upload a floor plan and place real-time data points directly on it.

    Example of an office map with real-time data 

    At our Arduino offices in Turin, we rely on Arduino Cloud and GIGA Displays to keep our meeting rooms organized and accessible. A few months ago, we shared a blog post about how our engineers developed a custom room booking system that integrates with Google Calendar APIs. 

    We used a traditional Arduino Cloud dashboard listing all meeting rooms, showing details like seating capacity and availability (see screenshot below). 

    Before: A standard Arduino Cloud dashboard listing all meeting rooms

    While functional, it lacked a spatial representation, making it harder to get an immediate overview of the office layout. Now, with the Image Map Widget, our meeting room dashboard has become a fully interactive floor map. Instead of scanning through a list, you can instantly see where each room is located and its real-time availability. Plus, thanks to embedded URLs, you can book a room directly from the dashboard!

    After: A smarter meeting room dashboard: real-time availability at a glance

    2. Generate a digital twin for machinery

    Monitoring industrial equipment has never been easier. Instead of manually checking machine status on-site, the Image Map Widget lets you create a digital twin, an interactive visual representation of your machine with real-time data overlays.

    Example 1: Air Compressor Monitoring

    Before: A static dashboard showing pressure levels, run hours, and power usage in separate widgets.

    After: A virtual air compressor with markers displaying key data directly on an image of the machine. Now, you can quickly assess its health and performance without being on-site.

    Example 2: Industry main control panel

    The new Image Map Widget also supports skeuomorphic data visualization, which means you can use real images or schematics of your physical environment — like the layout of your production lines, machinery, or control panels — and overlay them with live sensor data from Arduino-connected devices.

    The photo of an industrial control panel with live data markers placed on top providing operators with an intuitive view of what’s happening on the floor.

    3. Access status of production lines in an industry plan

    Imagine managing a plant with multiple production lines. With the Image Map Widget, you can upload a schematic of the factory layout or simply a clean visual split into 5 vertical columns, each representing a production line (Line 1 to Line 5). For each line, you can display:

    • Current phase (Development, testing, optimization, or completion)
    • Boolean states (e.g. “Ready,” “Maintenance needed,” “Paused”)
    • Throughput metrics

    Live status of five industrial production lines

    Why you’ll love the new Image Map Widget

    • Instant insights – No more scanning lists of data; see everything at a glance.
    • Customizable – Add images, pin multiple values, and embed links for deeper insights.
    • Exclusive to paid plans – Unlock this premium feature with the Maker plan and any plan for businesses to take your dashboards to the next level.
    Get started today!

    Ready to transform your dashboards? Try the new Image Map Widget now on app.arduino.cc and make your data more visual, interactive, and actionable!

    Let us know how you’re using it — we’d love to feature your project!

    The post Introducing the Image Map widget: A smarter way to visualize your data appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • A homemade launchpad for compressed air-powered rockets

    A homemade launchpad for compressed air-powered rockets

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    A conventional model rocket engine is simple combustible solid fuel (black powder or more advanced composites) molded into a cylinder that uses expanding gas to produce thrust. Though it is minimal, there is some danger there. An alternative is compressed gas, which will also expand to produce thrust — just without the explosive chemical reaction. If that intrigues you, then take a look at this compressed air launchpad for paper rockets by Aiden Wyandt.

    Compressed air can be dangerous, too. But 80 PSI (the highest tested pressure for this project) doesn’t pose a huge risk with proper hardware. The downside is that all of the gas expansion is immediate and comes from the launcher. In that way, it is more like a cannon than a true rocket. This is perfect for cheap, handcrafted paper missiles and the launcher makes that both fun and safe.

    Inside the laser-cut plywood enclosure is an Arduino UNO R4 WiFi board. It receives power from a 20V DeWalt tool battery boosted to 24V. That also powers solenoid valves through relays and the Arduino controls those, along with the LED lighting. The Arduino hosts a web interface for arming and launching, so the kids can move to a safe distance. Once the countdown completes, the solenoid will open and compressed air will expand into the launch tube to send the rocket flying.

    That air comes from an external air compressor through a standard fitting. It goes into a pair of small tanks and the solenoids sit between those tanks and the launch tubes. Because there are two, this launcher can handle two rockets before needing to be reset.

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TJtClWpqHs?feature=oembed&w=500&h=375]

    The post A homemade launchpad for compressed air-powered rockets appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • Hello World #26 out now: Digital Literacy

    Hello World #26 out now: Digital Literacy

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    We often believe we understand the meaning of ‘digital literacy’, but it can be a misleading term. Do we mean digital skills? Online safety? Where does AI fit in? As computer science education evolves to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world, we believe that true digital literacy empowers young people to engage with technology thoughtfully, critically, and confidently.

    In this issue of Hello World, out today for free, we discuss what digital literacy means, how it is taught in different countries around the world, and how educators are rethinking digital literacy for their students and themselves.

    Digital image of Hello World, issue 26 'digital literacy' displayed at an angle.

    Digital literacy

    As the use of digital technology grows, a broader view of digital literacy is necessary. Digital literacy is more than knowing how to use software. It’s the ability to use digital technologies effectively, safely, and responsibly.

    In Issue 26 of Hello World, we explore this topic in detail and hear insights from educators across the world, including:

    • Becci Peters shares how Computing at School (CAS) in the UK is supporting digital literacy skills for students and educators
    • Sourav Pattanayak discusses how digital literacy is defined in India, and the formal and informal ways educators are teaching digital literacy
    • Sandra Hartman explores strategies for enhancing digital literacy in the US
    • Gavin Davenport asks what would happen if we considered digital literacy in the same way as we consider traditional literacy
    Photo of young people sitting at a desk, working on small computers.

    This issue also includes inspiring articles from the world of computer science education:

    • Leah Dungay tells us about a programme combining physics, video games, and the Large Hadron Collider to engage young people in particle physics 
    • Gina Fugate shares how digital accessibility enhances digital experiences for all
    • Halima Bhayat shares her inspiring journey in computer science

    And there is lots more for you to discover in issue 26.

    New podcast series in audio and video

    We’re also pleased to announce that the Hello World podcast has returned alongside the magazine with a miniseries also focused on digital literacy.

    We asked for your thoughts on the podcast in our previous annual survey, and you kindly sent us lots of helpful feedback. Based on that, we’re trialling new episode formats, welcoming additional hosts, and bringing in more expert voices from around the world.

    On Tuesday 15 April we’ll be releasing our first teacher tips episode, a shorter podcast with 3 teachers sharing practical, actionable tips for improving digital literacy in the classroom. 

    Image featuring Dr. Jessica Hamer, Becky Patel and Rachel Arthur after recording an episode of the Hello World podcast.

    The week after, Tuesday 22 April, you’ll be able to hear a brilliant conversation between the Raspberry Pi Foundation’s Chief Learning Officer, Rachel Arthur, and two special guests: Dr Jessica Hamer from King’s College London’s School of Education and Becky Patel from Tech She Can. They’ll be discussing the current state of girls’ engagement in computing — a wide-reaching and important conversation exploring how we can empower more girls in computing through school, university and their careers.

    Then on Tuesday 29 April the final episode in the miniseries will be a panel debate about “digital natives” where we’ll be asking, ‘Are young people who grew up with technology around them truly tech-savvy, or are they dependent on digital tools without understanding how they work?’ James Robinson — Senior Learning Manager here at the Raspberry Pi Foundation and regular host of the podcast — will lead this discussion as global educators debate the myth of the “digital native,” uncover how it could overlook complex issues of access, skills, and education, and consider what it really takes to be tech-smart in the modern world.

    More information and links to listen can be found inside the magazine.

    Share your thoughts & subscribe to Hello World

    We hope you enjoy this issue of Hello World, and please get in touch with your article ideas or what you would like to see in the magazine.

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    Website: LINK

  • A Minecraft Movie – Out Now!

    A Minecraft Movie – Out Now!

    Reading Time: < 1 minute

    Will you lovingly tame wolves as Dawn or build your own Chicken Shack as Steve? No matter what type of adventurer you are, there’s a hero and skin to suit your playstyle. 

    FREE WALLPAPER

    A MINECRAFT MOVIE isn’t just for the silver screen! Bring the adventure to your small, medium, and big screens with a free wallpaper. Simply go here to choose your screen size or download the entire set by clicking the button below. 

    DOWNLOAD HERE 

    We couldn’t be more excited for you to finally see A MINECRAFT MOVIE! We hope you have fun seeing the Overworld through a new lens and enjoy the ride together with Steve, Garrett, Dawn, Natalie, and Henry. And remember, always bring a water bucket! 

    * Requires Internet, a valid Microsoft account, and Minecraft: Bedrock Edition (sold separately). Geography limitations, country and balance restrictions, taxes, platform-specific online subscription requirements and Internet connection fees may apply. Add-on, skin pack, and DLC are available on Minecraft Marketplace until 12/31/2025. 

    Website: LINK

  • Next Week on Xbox: New Games for April 7 to 11

    Next Week on Xbox: New Games for April 7 to 11

    Reading Time: 11 minutes

    Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!

    Age of Empires IV: Knights of Cross and Rose

    Age of Empires IV: Knights of Cross and Rose

    Xbox Game Studios

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $14.99 $12.74

    Age of Empires IV: Knights of the Cross and Rose – April 8
    Console & PC

    Embark on an epic journey with Age of Empires IV: Knights of Cross and Rose, the newest DLC that puts you in command of two well-known armies inspired by history. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or new to the series, this DLC delivers rich, historically inspired content that can be enjoyed across a variety of modes.

    Faircroft's Antiques: The Mountaneer's Legacy Collector's Edition

    Faircroft’s Antiques: The Mountaneer’s Legacy Collector’s Edition

    Ocean Media

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    IXION

    IXION

    Kasedo Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    IXION – April 8
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    With Earth on the brink of ecosystemic collapse, DOLOS A.E.C. leads to efforts to find a new home for the human race. Whether by chance or fate, its prototype space station, the Tiqqun, finds itself cast adrift, a disintegrating ark upon which the remnants of humanity must find sanctuary – and you, Administrator, are at its helm.

    South of Midnight
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    South of Midnight

    Xbox Game Studios

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $39.99

    South of Midnight – April 8
    Console & PC / Game Pass / Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere /

    A spellbinding third-person, action-adventure game set in the American Deep South. As Hazel, you’ll encounter creatures of Southern folklore and explore a macabre, fantastical world. You can play early starting today, April 3, by picking up either the South of Midnight Premium Edtion or the Premium Upgrade Edition for Game Pass members.

    Anima Flux

    Anima Flux

    JollyCo

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Commandos: Origins

    Commandos: Origins

    Kalypso Media

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $59.99 $53.99

    Commandos: Origins – April 9
    Game Pass / Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Witness the very beginning of the legendary elite WWII force in Commandos: Origins. The long-awaited sequel to the Commandos series brings you right back to the foundation of the real-time tactics genre. And to the days where Jack O’Hara, the Green Beret, and his five companions met to form the infamous unit sent to complete missions which no others would dare to accept.

    Detective From The Crypt (Xbox Series X|S)

    Detective From The Crypt (Xbox Series X|S)

    Sometimes You

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $9.99 $7.99

    Detective From The Crypt – April 9
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    A mystical Victorian detective story in which you play as a ghost girl helped by a ghost cat. Jane wakes up in a crypt as a ghost and begins investigating the death of her family. Seeking and researching evidence, you’ll build a case by utilizing a laboratory to research evidence.

    Ellphaser

    Ellphaser

    Afil Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Ellphaser – April 9
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Ellphaser throws you into a frozen world where every jump reshapes reality. In this 2D platformer with puzzle mechanics, platforms disappear and reappear with each jump, creating dynamic challenges at every move. Control a fearless elephant and plan each jump carefully to escape traps — sharp spikes, electric orbs, and unstable platforms are waiting for a misstep.

    Little Droid
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    Little Droid

    Stamina Zero LLC

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $5.99

    Little Droid – April 9
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

    An adventure platformer that takes you to a world of mysteries, tough enemies, and hidden dangers. The journey is packed with challenges, requiring careful battery management to keep the droid energized at crucial moments.

    Secrets In Green

    Secrets In Green

    Eastasiasoft Limited

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Secrets In Green – April 9
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Following an unfortunate episode of mental illness, Alma is sent to a cottage in the countryside where she finds peace tending to the overgrown garden. However, while admiring the large ivy growing across its fence, she discovers a leaf bearing a single written word – hello. Her father and caregiver brush it off as nothing but a hallucination, a symptom of her hysteria. Can you help Alma find her power and solve this dangerous mystery before it’s too late?

    Suika And Dragons (Xbox Series X/S)

    Suika And Dragons (Xbox Series X/S)

    Synnergy Circle Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Suika and Dragons – April 9 – Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    The moment of destiny has arrived — the dragon eggs are ready to hatch! As the revered Elder Dragon, it is your sacred duty to guide these young hatchlings, ensuring they grow, evolve, and rise to become majestic, unstoppable forces of nature. Will you lead them to greatness, forging a new era of dragonkind in this puzzle game inspired by Suika?

    Blue Prince
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    Blue Prince

    Raw Fury

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Blue Prince – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere

    Welcome to Mt. Holly, the mysterious manor with shifting rooms. In Blue Prince, you embark on a genre-defying experience, filled with a unique mix of mystery, strategy, and puzzles that weave together to create an unpredictable journey. Will your explorative steps lead you to the rumored Room 46?

    Hook: Complete Edition

    Hook: Complete Edition

    Ultimate Games S.A.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Hook: Complete Edition – April 10

    Experience the ultimate relaxing puzzle game collection with Hook: Complete Edition, featuring both Hook 1 and Hook 2 in one package. A minimalist puzzle game where your goal is to remove all hooks from the board using intuitive mechanics. No timers, no scores, just pure, stress-free gameplay complemented by a calming ambient soundtrack.

    HordeCore Console Edition

    HordeCore Console Edition

    E-Home Entertianment Development Co., Ltd

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $11.99 $9.59

    HordeCore – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Become the leader of an ever-expanding group of survivors. Manage supplies, upgrade your team, and craft deadly contraptions to defend yourself! Remember, exploration is vital in this harsh new world. Prepare to forge bizarre alliances and, together, face the many dangers of the wastelands.

    Monaco 2

    Monaco 2

    Humble Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Monaco 2 – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Monaco is a city overflowing with luxury and greed, which makes it a perfect target for you and your international gang of criminal masterminds. The best of the best has been assembled, and they’ll need to work together using their unique abilities to rob the city blind. Do you and your friends have what it takes to bring the city of Monaco to its knees?

    Monster Energy Supercross 25 - The Official Video Game

    Monster Energy Supercross 25 – The Official Video Game

    Milestone S.r.l.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $59.99

    Monster Energy Supercross 25 – The Official Video Game – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Get ready for the official 2025 Supercross season with Monster Energy Supercross 25! Experience the thrill of racing on newly designed tracks that replicate real-world events and compete against the latest roster of professional riders: forge your path in a revamped career featuring intense competitions, rivalries, and strategic choices.

    Pilo and the Holobook

    Pilo and the Holobook

    ©RedDeer.Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Pilo and the Holobook – April 10

    An exploration-based adventure game set in a colorful galaxy where you guide Pilo, an apprentice explorer, on a journey to document the universe’s wonders and solve mysteries. Using the Holobook, a powerful encyclopedia-like tool, Pilo collects stickers to record his discoveries and uncover the story behind a mysterious dark force known as the Tar.

    Pocket Bravery Demo

    Pocket Bravery Demo

    PQube Ltd

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 43

    ★★★★★

    Pocket Bravery – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Inspired by classic fighting games from the ‘90s such as Street Fighter, Fatal Fury, and The King of Fighters, Pocket Bravery channels the Neo Geo Pocket aesthetic for a modern fighting game with a retro twist! With original characters, vibrant colors and an impressive combat system, Pocket Bravery is designed with high-level players in mind, while making it easily accessible for beginners to pick-up-and-play!

    Promise Mascot Agency

    Promise Mascot Agency

    Kaizen Game Works Limited

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Promise Mascot Agency – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    From the creators of Paradise Killer comes a mind-bending open-world narrative adventure mascot management simulator where mascots are more than just symbols – they’re unpredictable forces of nature! Step into the chaos, unravel the conspiracies, drive a tiny truck and try to keep it all together in Promise Mascot Agency!

    Steel Seed

    Steel Seed

    ESDigital Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Steel Seed – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Steel Seed is a single-player, stealth action-adventure game set in a dark sci-fi world. In her epic journey inside a hostile underground facility run by AIs, Zoe is alone with Koby, a flying drone, as her only companion.

    The Sekimeiya: Spun Glass

    The Sekimeiya: Spun Glass

    Viridian Software

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    The Sekimeiya: Spun Glass – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    In the rural town of Yushibana, the Ashiya family holds much of the wealth. After they discover a rare gemstone, a showing is scheduled in Ashiya Tower, drawing the attention of many of the townspeople. However, during the exhibit, the tower is flooded with smoke, activating emergency shutters that trap eight people inside. With twelve hours until their release, they must grapple with an increasingly complex series of unnatural events.

    The Talos Principle: Reawakened

    The Talos Principle: Reawakened

    Devolver Digital

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    The Talos Principle: Reawakened – April 10
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    Step back into a world of thought-provoking puzzles, philosophical intrigue, and breathtaking visuals with The Talos Principle: Reawakened. This definitive edition revisits the groundbreaking narrative of The Talos Principle, immersing players in an expanded and remastered journey through the world of the Simulation.

    BEAR ESCAPE MISSION

    BEAR ESCAPE MISSION

    YUME GAME STUDIO

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Bear Escape Mission – April 11

    A casual platformer designed to be simple and relaxing. With 40 short and challenging levels, you’ll guide a cute bear through obstacles at a light and pressure-free pace, thanks to infinite lives. Easy to play, fun to master – perfect for any player, anytime!

    Big Buck Hunter: Ultimate Trophy
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    Big Buck Hunter: Ultimate Trophy

    GameMill Entertainment

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $39.99 $35.99

    Big Buck Hunter: Ultimate Trophy – April 11
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere

    Get ready to lock, load, and dominate the wild like never before with Big Buck Hunter: Ultimate Trophy! This groundbreaking experience takes the #1 arcade hunting game to thrilling new heights, delivering over 3X the content of its hit predecessor.

    The Black Within

    The Black Within

    Dolores Entertainment

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    The Black Within – April 11
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    A single-player, first-person psychological horror game that takes players on a chilling journey into the depths of the human psyche. When selling her soul for fame and fortune, Laila Rose faces the consequences of her actions. A tale where greed, fear, and change intertwine.

    Capy’s Quest

    Capy’s Quest

    ChiliDog Interactive

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $4.99

    Capy’s Quest – April 11
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Become the best chef on the summer islands! Play as a Capybara named Capy, a young chef who is out to prove that your culinary talent can outshine even the most renowned chefs in the world! Embark on a journey full of obstacles and puzzles and cook the most delicious dishes in exciting mini-games to delight as many residents of the summer islands as possible!

    Mayhem Mail

    Mayhem Mail

    Ratalaika Games S.L.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Mayhem Mail – April 11
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

    The mail has been scattered! Take on the mail route from hell, recover and deliver mail to its rightful place! Mayhem Mail is a classic single screen arcade platformer with some added puzzle elements.

    Mob Control

    Mob Control

    QubicGames S.A.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $4.99 $3.99

    Mob Control – April 11

    Experience the strangely satisfying thrill of watching your mob multiply as you aim and shoot at the gates. Witness your army grow to massive proportions! Strategically deploy your mighty champions to break through enemy mobs and reach their bases. Choose the best combo to win!

    Mortisomem

    Mortisomem

    Sometimes You

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $9.99 $7.99

    Free Trial

    Mortisomem – April 11

    Mortisomem is an adventure, mystery, and horror game with retro visual aesthetics. The game takes place in the year 1917, in the vast forest of inland Brazil. Explore the forests of inland Brazil, meet people, uncover the region’s history, and escape from Mortisomem alive.

    West Escape

    West Escape

    QubicGames S.A.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $5.99 $4.79

    West Escape – April 11

    West Escape throws you into a chaotic frontier where the law is on your tail and alien invaders are wreaking havoc. As a fugitive desperate to reunite with your lost love, you’ll need to collect scrap, upgrade your gear, and face off against relentless extraterrestrial threats.

    Windborn - Concrete Jungle

    Windborn – Concrete Jungle

    EpiXR Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $6.99

    Xbox One X Enhanced

    Windborn – Concrete Jungle – April 11
    Xbox One X Enhanced

    Embark on an exhilarating journey as a bird navigating the skies alongside your flock. In this beautifully crafted adventure, you will soar through 11 vibrant and diverse levels, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking landscapes. Your mission isn’t just about speed—it’s about staying connected with your flock as you all journey together, guided by instinct and unity.

    Website: LINK

  • Next Week on Xbox – Neue Spiele vom 7. bis 11. April

    Next Week on Xbox – Neue Spiele vom 7. bis 11. April

    Reading Time: 9 minutes

    Willkommen bei Next Week on Xbox! Wie immer stellen wir Dir alle neuen Spiele vor, die bald für Xbox Series X|S und Xbox One, Windows und im Game Pass erhältlich sind. Klick Dich einfach durch die Spiel-Details, um mehr zu möglichen Vorbestellungen zu erfahren (Änderungen vorbehalten).

    Konsole & PC
    Begib Dich mit Age of Empires IV: Knights of Cross and Rose, dem neuesten DLC, auf eine epische Reise, in deren Verlauf Du das Kommando über zwei der bekanntesten Armeen der Geschichte übernimmst. Ganz egal, ob Du Dich als erfahrene*n Strateg*in oder Neuling bezeichnest – dieser DLC liefert spannende, historisch inspirierte Inhalte, die durch eine Vielzahl von Modi zum Leben erweckt werden.

    Mia Faircroft genießt den Sommer im französischen Hochland! Dieses Wimmelbildspiel nimmt Dich mit in eine malerische Stadt in den Bergen. Erkunde atemberaubende Orte, rette unbezahlbare Schätze und hilf den Bewohner*innen von Mont Cache!
     

    8. April – IXION

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Während die Erde am Rande des Kollapses steht, versucht DOLOS A.E.C. eine neue Heimat für die Menschheit zu finden. Die Menschen, die bis hier hin überlebt haben, müssen auf der Raumstation Tiqqun, einer dahintreibenden, zerfallenen Arche Zuflucht finden – die von Dir gesteuert wird.
     

    Konsole & PC / Game Pass / Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere
    Ein fesselndes Third-Person-Action-Adventure, das tief im amerikanischen Süden spielt. In der Rolle von Hazel triffst du auf Kreaturen der Südstaaten-Folklore und erkundest eine düstere Welt. Du kannst schon heute losspielen, indem Du Dir entweder die South of Midnight Premium Edition oder die Premium Upgrade Edition für Mitglieder des Game Pass sicherst.

    Anima Flux ist ein 2D Jump ’n‘ Run, in dem Du einen von zwei Charakteren mit individuellen Fähigkeiten steuerst. Als Soldat einer Spezialeinheit bist Du in einer alternativen Zukunft unterwegs. Schulter an Schulter mit einem zuverlässigen Partner bekämpfst Du alle möglichen Feinde, Mutanten, Roboter, Sicherheitsvorkehrungen und natürlich Endbosse. Rette die letzte Festung der Menschheit, falls überhaupt noch jemand lebt und teste die kostenlose Demo von Anima Flux.

    Game Pass / Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    In Commandos: Origins erlebst Du die Anfänge der legendären Eliteeinheit aus dem Zweiten Weltkrieg. Die lang erwartete Fortsetzung der Commandos-Reihe bringt Dich direkt zurück zum Beginn des Echtzeit-Taktik-Genres. Und zu den Tagen, an denen sich Jack O’Hara, der Green Beret, und seine fünf Kameraden trafen, um die berüchtigte Einheit zu bilden. Meistere die Missionen, die sonst niemand zu übernehmen wagte.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Eine mystische viktorianische Detektivgeschichte, in der Du als Geistermädchen von einer Geisterkatze unterstützt wirst. Jane erwacht als Geist in einer Krypta und beginnt, den Tod ihrer Familie zu erforschen. Du bearbeitest den Fall, indem Du die Beweise in einem Labor unter die Lupe nimmst.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Ellphaser entführt Dich in eine eisige Welt, in der Du mit jedem Sprung die Realität neu formst. In diesem 2D-Plattformer mit Rätselmechanik verschwinden Plattformen, ehe sie wieder auftauchen. Übernimm die Kontrolle über einen furchtlosen Elefanten und plane jeden Sprung sorgfältig, um den Fallen zu entgegen – scharfe Stacheln, elektrische Kugeln und instabile Plattformen bestrafen jeden Fehltritt.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
    Ein Abenteuer-Plattformer, der Dich in eine Welt voller Geheimnisse, hartnäckiger Feinde und versteckter Gefahren führt. Die Reise ist prall gefüllt mit Herausforderungen, die ein sorgfältiges Batteriemanagement erfordern, um den Droiden in entscheidenden Momenten mit Energie zu versorgen.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
    Nach einem mentalen Zusammenbruch wird Alma in ein Cottage auf dem Land geschickt, wo sie in der Pflege eines verwilderten Gartens zur Ruhe kommt. Als sie jedoch den großen Efeu bewundert, der über den Zaun wächst, entdeckt sie ein Blatt, auf dem ein einziges Wort geschrieben steht: „Hallo“. Ihr Vater und ihre Betreuerin halten es für eine Halluzination, ein Symptom ihrer Hysterie. Kannst Du Alma helfen, ihre Kraft zu finden und dieses gefährliche Geheimnis zu lösen, bevor es zu spät ist?

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Der Moment des Schicksals ist gekommen – die Drachenkinder sind kurz davor, zu schlüpfen! Als Drachenälteste*r ist es Deine heilige Pflicht, die Jungtiere zu beschützen und dafür zu sorgen, dass sie wachsen, sich entwickeln und zu majestätischen, unaufhaltsamen Naturgewalten emporsteigen. Wirst Du sie in diesem von Suika inspirierten Rätselspiel zu Größe führen und eine neue Ära der Drachenwelt einläuten?

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere
    Willkommen in Mt. Holly, dem mysteriösen Herrenhaus, in dem sich die Räume bewegen. Blue Prince ist ein atmosphärisches und architektonisch hoch anspruchsvolles Abenteuer, in dem es darum geht, 45 Räume zu erkunden, die sich ständig verändern. Gelingt es Dir, das berüchtigte 46. Zimmer zu finden?

    Genieße die ultimative Puzzlespielsammlung mit der Hook: Complete Edition, die sowohl Hook 1 als auch Hook 2 enthält. Ein minimalistisches Puzzlespiel, bei dem Dein Ziel darin besteht, alle Haken mit Hilfe einer intuitiven Mechanik vom Spielbrett zu entfernen. Keine Timer, keine Punkte, nur ein stressfreies Gameplay, das durch einen beruhigenden Ambient-Soundtrack untermalt wird.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Beweise Dich als Anführer*in einer immer größer werdenden Gruppe von Überlebenden. Verwalte die Vorräte, rüste Dein Team auf und errichte tödliche Vorrichtungen, um Dich zu verteidigen! Vergiss jedoch nicht, dass Erkundungen in dieser rauen Welt überlebenswichtig sind. Bereite Dich darauf vor, bizarre Allianzen zu schmieden, um Dich den vielen Gefahren des Ödlands zu stellen.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Monaco ist eine Stadt, die vor Luxus und Gier geradezu strotzt, was sie zu einem perfekten Ziel für Dich und Deine internationale Bande von kriminellen Superhirnen macht. Die Besten der Besten wurden zusammengezogen, um die Stadt auszurauben und es ist Deine Aufgabe, ihre einzigartigen Fähigkeiten optimal einzusetzen. Haben Du und Deine Freund*innen das Zeug dazu, die Stadt in die Knie zu zwingen?

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Mach Dich bereit für die offizielle Supercross-Saison 2025 mit Monster Energy Supercross 25! Erlebe den Nervenkitzel eines Rennens auf neu gestalteten Strecken, die realen Ereignissen nachempfunden sind und trete gegen die neueste Riege professioneller Fahrer*innen an: Bahne Dir Deinen Weg durch die überarbeitete Karriere und stelle Dich intensiven Wettkämpfen, Rivalitäten und strategischen Entscheidungen.

    Ein auf Erkundung basierendes Abenteuerspiel, das in einer farbenfrohen Galaxie spielt. Du begleitest Pilo, den Forschungslehrling auf seiner Reise, die Wunder des Universums zu dokumentieren und die dahinterstehenden Geheimnisse zu lösen. Mit dem Holobook, einem mächtigen enzyklopädieartigen Werkzeug, sammelt Pilo Sticker, um seine Entdeckungen aufzuzeichnen und die Geschichte hinter einer mysteriösen dunklen Macht, dem Tar, aufzudecken.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
    Inspiriert von klassischen Kampfspielen aus den Neunzigern wie Street Fighter, Fatal Fury und The King of Fighters, vereint Pocket Bravery die Ästhetik des Neo Geo Pocket mit einem Retro-Touch zu einem modernen Kampfspiel! Mit originellen Charakteren, leuchtenden Farben und einem beeindruckenden Kampfsystem wurde Pocket Bravery für erfahrene Spieler entwickelt. Selbstverständlich haben aber auch Anfänger*innen ihren Spaß, sodass Du direkt loslegen kannst!

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Die Entwickler*innen von Paradise Killer liefern mit Promise Mascot Agency ein spannendes Open-World-Adventure, in dem Maskottchen mehr als nur Symbole sind – sie sind unberechenbare Naturgewalten! Stürze Dich ins Chaos, decke Verschwörungen auf, steuere einen kleinen Truck und versuche, alles unter Kontrolle zu halten!

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Steel Seed ist ein Stealth-Action-Adventure für Einzelspieler*innen, das in einer düsteren Science-Fiction-Welt spielt. Auf ihrer epischen Reise durch eine unterirdische Anlage, die von künstlichen Intelligenzen betrieben wird, ist Zoe allein auf sich und die Drohne Koby angewiesen, die sie begleitet.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
    In der Provinzstadt Yushibana besitzt die Familie Ashiya einen Großteil des Vermögens. Nachdem die Familie einen seltenen Edelstein entdeckt hat, soll dieser im Ashiya-Turm ausgestellt werden, was die Aufmerksamkeit vieler Bürger*innen auf sich zieht. Während der Ausstellung wird der Turm jedoch mit Rauchbomben attackiert, wodurch die Notverschlüsse aktiviert und acht Personen eingeschlossen werden. Zwölf Stunden vor ihrer Freilassung müssen sie sich mit einer immer komplexer werdenden Reihe übernatürlicher Ereignisse auseinandersetzen.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Mit The Talos Principle: Reawakened kehrst Du in eine Welt voller spannender Rätsel, philosophischer Intrigen und atemberaubender Bilder zurück. Die Edition greift die bahnbrechende Geschichte von The Talos Principle wieder auf und nimmt Dich mit auf eine Reise durch die Welt der Simulation.

    Ein einfaches und lockeres Jump’n’Run. In 40 kurzweiligen Leveln steuerst Du einen niedlichen Bären über Hindernisse und das dank unendlich vieler Leben ganz ohne Druck. Einfach zu spielen, unterhaltsam zu meistern – perfekt für alle Spieler*innen, zu jeder Zeit!

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere
    Mach Dich bereit, mit Big Buck Hunter: Ultimate Trophy die Wildnis zu erobern wie Du es noch nie zuvor getan hast. Dieses bahnbrechende Erlebnis katapultiert die Nummer 1 unter den Arcade-Jagdspielen in neue Sphären und erweitert die Inhalte seines Vorgängers um mehr als das Dreifache.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Ein psychologisches Ego-Horrorspiel für Singleplayer, das in die Tiefen der menschlichen Psyche führt. Als Laila Rose ihre Seele für Ruhm und Reichtum verkauft, muss sie die Konsequenzen ihres Handelns ertragen. Eine Geschichte, in der Gier, Angst und Veränderung miteinander verwoben sind.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
    Werde zum besten Koch der Sommerinseln! Du schlüpfst in die Rolle eines Capybara namens Capy, das sein Talent unter Beweis stellen und zeigen will, dass es die berühmtesten Köch*innen der Welt in den Schatten stellen kann! Überwinde Hindernisse, löse Rätsel und koche in spannenden Minispielen die köstlichsten Gerichte, um so viele Bewohner*innen der Sommerinseln wie möglich mit Deinen Skills zu begeistern.

    Optimiert für Xbox Series X|S
    Die Post ist verloren gegangen! Übernimm die Postroute aus der Hölle, rette die Post und bringe sie an den dafür vorgesehenen Platz! Mayhem Mail ist ein klassischer Arcade-Plattformer mit zusätzlichen Puzzle-Elementen.

    Erlebe den seltsam befriedigenden Nervenkitzel, der entsteht, wenn Du auf die Tore schießt und siehst, wie sich der Mob vervielfacht. Schaue Deiner Armee zu, wie sie in gewaltigem Ausmaß heranwächst. Setze Deine mächtigen Champions strategisch ein, um die feindlichen Mobs zu zerschlagen und ihre Basen zu erreichen. Wähle die beste Kombo, um zu gewinnen!

    Mortisomem ist ein Abenteuer-, Mystery- und Horrorspiel mit visueller Retro-Ästhetik. Die Handlung spielt im Jahr 1917 in den riesigen Wäldern des brasilianischen Hinterlandes. Erforsche die Wälder, triff Menschen, entdecke die Geschichte der Region und entkomme lebend aus Mortisomem.

    West Escape nimmt Dich mit in ein chaotisches Grenzland, in dem Dir das Gesetz auf den Fersen ist und außerirdische Invasoren ihr Unwesen treiben. Als Flüchtling, der verzweifelt versucht, seine verlorene Liebe wiederzufinden, musst du Schrott sammeln, Deine Ausrüstung aufwerten und Dich gegen unerbittliche Bedrohungen aus dem All zur Wehr setzen.

    Xbox One X Enhanced
    Du bist ein Vogel, der zusammen mit seinem Schwarm durch die Lüfte fliegt. In diesem wunderschön gestalteten Abenteuer schwebst Du durch elf lebendige und abwechslungsreiche Level, die jeweils einzigartige Herausforderungen und atemberaubende Landschaften bieten. In diesem Spiel geht es nicht nur um Geschwindigkeit, sondern auch darum, mit Deinem Schwarm verbunden zu bleiben. Lasst euch von eurem gemeinsamen Instinkt leiten.

    Website: LINK

  • F/A-18C Right Console

    F/A-18C Right Console

    Reading Time: < 1 minute

    To many readers, ‘F/A-18C Right Console’ will look like a bunch of letters and numbers thrown together. To aviation enthusiasts, though, those letters and numbers clearly refer to the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, a fighter plane developed in the 1970s for the US Marines and US Navy. This replica control console by ValeNoxBona was apparently the maker’s first ever build using the Arduino microcontroller, which is used to control the addressable RGB LEDs that light this project. The build uses a 3D-printed enclosure with a laser-cut and engraved acrylic top, backlit with WS2812 addressable RGB LEDs mounted on a custom PCB and controlled by the Arduino.

    The lettering is engraved into the acrylic, which makes the material thin enough for the lights underneath to shine through. Apart from the time involved, the biggest cost in building this was the switches, made by NKK of Scottsdale, Arizona.

  • Sechs Tipps, um in der düsteren, fantastischen Welt von South of Midnight zu bestehen

    Sechs Tipps, um in der düsteren, fantastischen Welt von South of Midnight zu bestehen

    Reading Time: 6 minutes

    Zusammenfassung

    • South of Midnight erscheint am 8. April. Besitzer*innen der Premium Edition können schon ab sofort starten!
    • Das Spiel erscheint für Xbox Series X|S, die Xbox App für Windows PC, auf Steam, Cloud und ist direkt zum Release im Game Pass verfügbar. Mit Xbox Play Anywhere kannst Du es auf Xbox-Konsolen, über Windows PC und in der Cloud spielen, inklusive Cross-Entitlement und Cross-Saves.
    • Um die Veröffentlichung gebührend zu feiern, haben wir sechs Tipps zusammengestellt, die Dir auf Deiner Reise durch den amerikanischen Süden helfen.

    South of Midnight entführt Dich in eine düstere und außergewöhnliche Welt, die auf dem Mythos des amerikanischen Südens basiert. Obwohl das Spiel an ein Märchen erinnert, sind sowohl die Geschichten als auch die Herausforderungen, die es zu bieten hat, alles andere als einfach.

    Auf Deiner Reise lernst Du Hazel kennen, die die magische Kraft des Webens erlangt hat, nachdem ihre Mutter einer katastrophalen Flut zum Opfer gefallen ist. Auf der Suche nach ihr und nach Antworten, was genau hier eigentlich vor sich geht, muss Hazel eine verzerrte Version des Südens durchqueren. Unterwegs trifft sie immer wieder auf verdorbene Feinde, die aus dem Leid der Welt entstanden sind. Außerdem heilt sie die Wunden von mythischen Kreaturen, die von den Entwickler*innen von Compulsion Games zum Leben erweckt wurden.

    Als Besitzer*in der Premium Edition kannst Du ab heute starten (ehe South of Midnight am 8. April für die gesamte Community erscheint). Zur Feier dieses lang erwarteten Tages haben wir einige Tipps zusammengestellt, die Dir sowohl bei der Erkundung der Gegend als auch im Kampf gegen Deine Widersacher helfen. Mach Dich bereit für eine unerwartete Reise!

    Beobachte Deine Umgebung

    Die Navigation durch die einzelnen Kapitel von South of Midnight könnte kaum einfacher sein und fast fühlt es sich so an, als würdest Du von magischen Fäden zum nächsten Ziel geführt werden. Doch das ist noch lange nicht alles, was es zu entdecken gibt. Jeder Schauplatz ist voll von versteckten Herausforderungen, bei denen es mal darum geht, eine bestimmte Plattform zu erreichen und mal einen mächtigen Zauberspruch einzusetzen. Manchmal kann es auch passieren, dass Du in einen Kampf verwickelt wirst, den Du sonst vielleicht nicht ausgefochten hättest. All diese Herausforderungen findest Du nur mit einem scharfen Auge.

    Als Belohnung erhältst Du Floofs – die Upgrade-Währung des Spiels. Wir empfehlen Dir dringend, genug Zeit einzuplanen, um nach ihnen zu suchen. Indem Du Deine Umgebung etwas gezielter erkundest, kannst Du Deinen Fertigkeitsbaum (mehr dazu später) viel schneller aufwerten, als wenn Du einfach von einem Ziel zum nächsten hastest.

    Dazu kommt, dass Du auf Deinem Weg auch Lebensfäden finden kannst. In den meisten Kapiteln gibt es einen davon – meist in einem verstecken Nebenbereich. Sobald Du drei Lebensfäden gesammelt hast, erhöhen sich Deine Lebenspunkte langfristig.

    Erweitere die Geschichte

    In South of Midnight dreht sich alles um Geschichten – von Hazel, die sich auf die Suche nach ihrer Mutter macht bis hin zu den tragischen Hintergrundgeschichten der mythischen Kreaturen, denen Du unterwegs begegnest. Wenn Du noch tiefer in die Geschehnisse eintauchen willst, solltest Du jedes Kapitel nach Items, Notizen und anderen Elementen durchsuchen. Diese werden durch kleine Kreise markiert und befinden sich oft an abgelegenen Orten.

    Die versteckten Notizen in den einzelnen Kapiteln sind weit entfernt vom üblichen Aufbau der Welt und doch liefern sie noch mehr Details zu den Charakteren und Geschichten, die Du im Verlauf der Handlung kennenlernst. Vielleicht erfährst Du mehr darüber, warum die Charaktere so sind wie sie sind, einfach weil Du Dir die Zeit genommen hast, mehr über ihr Leben zu lernen. So kannst Du die Geschichte ganz einfach vertiefen.

    Rüste früh und oft auf

    Wie bereits erwähnt, kannst Du Dich schneller durch den Upgrade-Baum arbeiten, wenn Du ein wenig mehr Zeit für die Erkundung aufwendest. Sobald härtere Kampfsequenzen auf Dich zukommen, wirst Du Dir selbst dafür dankbar sein. Schon im normalen Schwierigkeitsgrad haben es die Kämpfe in sich, denn selbst die harmlosesten Feinde können Dir mit einem einzigen Treffer den Großteil Deiner Lebenspunkte rauben. Nun kannst Du Dir selbst ausmalen, was passiert, wenn Du es mit einer mythischen Kreatur zu tun bekommst. Mit gezielten Upgrades kannst Du den Spieß umdrehen.

    Die Upgrades konzentrieren sich eher darauf, Dir zusätzliche Vorteile zu bieten als einfach nur die vorhandenen Werte aufzubessern. Wenn Du zum Beispiel einen am Boden liegenden Feind entfesselst, um seine Lebenspunkte zu erhalten, kannst Du eine Explosion mit Flächenwirkung auslösen, die alle Haints in der Nähe schwächt, ehe Du Dich wieder ins Getümmel stürzt. Ein doppeltes Ausweichmanöver wird sich als sehr nützlich erweisen, wenn Du auf Gegner*innen triffst, die schnell mehrere Geschosse abfeuern können. Nimm Dir die Zeit, den Fertigkeitsbaum zu erforschen, und priorisiere die Upgrades, die Dir als besonders nützlich erscheinen.

    Weiche aus, um Dich zu verteidigen und anzugreifen

    Hazel kann keine Angriffe blocken – allerdings kann sie dieses Defizit durch ihre außergewöhnlichen Ausweichmanöver mehr als kompensieren. Indem Du die Ausweich-Taste drückst, kannst Du in jede Richtung fliehen (mit einigen Unverwundbarkeitsframes). Noch besser ist ein perfekt getimtes Manöver, kurz bevor Du getroffen wirst, das eine böse Überraschung für alle bereithält, die sich Dir in den Weg stellen.

    Diese Art von Ausweichmanöver löst einen Energiestrahl aus, der alle Feinde in Deiner Nähe zum Taumeln bringt und immensen Schaden anrichtet. Es lohnt sich, nicht nur darauf zu achten, welche Angriffe Deine Feinde ausführen können – sondern auch darauf, wie viel Zeit sie dafür benötigen. So kannst Du mit Deinen Ausweichmanövern fast genauso viel Schaden anrichten wie mit Deinen Angriffen.

    Nutze Zaubersprüche als Unterbrechung

    Es kann in South of Midnight sehr schnell sehr unangenehm werden, wenn Du tatsächlich von einem Angriff getroffen wirst. Und obwohl Hazel über effektive Ausweichmanöver verfügt, ist es manchmal einfacher, einen Angriff im Voraus zu verhindern. Gegen die meisten Feinde kann es schon reichen, einen Zauber auszusprechen – egal, ob es sich dabei um einen Zug- einen Stoß- oder einen Web-Zauber handelt (der die meisten Haints außer Gefecht setzt).

    Es ist zwar sehr verlockend, diese Zauber so oft wie möglich einzusetzen, doch wir empfehlen Dir, stets einen Zauber in Reserve zu halten. Sobald Du siehst, dass sich Dein Feind windet, kannst Du mit Deinem Zauber immer wieder zuschlagen.

    Verkette Deine Zaubersprüche

    Wenn Du einen Gegner wirklich in Schach halten willst, kannst Du Dein gesamtes Zauberrepertoire nutzen, um Deine Angriffe ohne Unterbrechung fortzusetzen. Diese Fähigkeit kann sich als besonders nützlich erweisen, wenn Du schon ein paar Upgrades auf dem Buckel hast.

    So kannst Du zum Beispiel einen Feind mit einem zusätzlichen Web-Effekt zu Dir ziehen. Diesen Effekt kannst Du natürlich verbessern, damit Deine Feinde schon Schaden nehmen, während sie gefesselt sind. Sobald sie sich befreien, kannst Du sie mit dem Kernzauber erneut fesseln und wenn sie sich wieder befreien, kannst Du einen Stoß-Zauber einsetzen, um Schaden zu verursachen und Deine Feinde auf Distanz zu halten. Lade die Leiste für den Fernkampfangriff auf, um ihnen schlussendlich den Todesstoß zu versetzen.

    Mit ein bisschen Übung können Feinde, die zu Beginn des Spiels gefühlt eine Ewigkeit zum Ausweichen und Attackieren benötigten, mit einer einzigen Kombo besiegt werden – was äußerst befriedigend ist.

    ———————————————————-

    South of Midnight erscheint am 8. April 2025 für Xbox Series X|S, die Xbox App für Windows PC, auf Steam und die Cloud und ist direkt zum Release im Game Pass erhältlich. Sichere Dir die Premium Edition, um schon heute loszuspielen und Zugang zu digitalen Extras zu erhalten.

    Website: LINK

  • South of Midnight: 6 Tips to Help You Thrive in This Dark, Fantastical World

    South of Midnight: 6 Tips to Help You Thrive in This Dark, Fantastical World

    Reading Time: 8 minutes

    Summary

    • South of Midnight launches on April 8, or play now with the Premium Edition.
    • The game arrives for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox app for Windows PC, Steam, cloud, and will be available day one with Game Pass. And with Xbox Play Anywhere, play on Xbox consoles, Windows PC, and cloud with full cross-entitlements and cross-saves.
    • To celebrate release, we’ve put together 6 tips to help you in both exploration and combat.

    South of Midnight invites you into a dark, fantastical world drawn from tales of the American South – and while this might look like a fairytale, both the stories it tells and the challenges it poses are far from simplistic.

    Telling the tale of Hazel, who gains the magical power of Weaving after her mother is swept away by a supernatural flood, you’ll need to cross a warped take on the South in your hunt to find her mother, and answers to what exactly is going on. Along the way, you’ll battle Haints – corrupted enemies borne from the sorrow of the world – and cure the wounds of Mythical Creatures, the subjects of real-life folktales brought to life by developer Compulsion Games.

    Premium Edition owners can play from today (ahead of an April 8 release date for all players), and to celebrate we’ve put together some tips that cover both exploration and combat, which will help you prepare for this very unexpected journey:

    Look Everywhere

    South of Midnight Screenshot

    Navigating each of South of Midnight’s chapters could be as simple as following your Guiding Strand – a feature that sees magical threads guide you to your next goal. But that’s far from all there is to discover. Each location is stuffed with hidden areas – some require platforming to reach, others need you to use your spells, while others will lead you into battles you might never have otherwise had. All of them will require a keen eye to find.

    Your rewards for doing this usually come in the form of Floofs – the game’s upgrade currency – and we hugely recommend you take the time to look for them. With just a bit of concerted exploration, you can add upgrades to your skill tree (more on those later) much faster than by simply running from one objective to the next.

    Even better, you may also find Life Filaments as you go. Most chapters contain one of these – usually in its most hidden side area – and collecting three offers a permanent upgrade to your health bar.

    Expand These Stories

    South of Midnight Screenshot

    South of Midnight is all about stories – from the tale of Hazel’s search to find her mother, to the tragic backstories of the Mythical Creatures you’ll find along the way. But if you want to dig really deep, make sure to search each chapter for items, notes, and more. You’ll see these marked by small circles as you approach, often in out-of-the-way locations.

    Far from your regular world-building, each chapter’s hidden notes add even more detail to the characters and stories you’re learning about along the core questline. You may discover hidden motivations for why characters are the way they are, simply because you took the time to read about their lives. It’s an enriching way to add to the wider tale.

    Upgrade Early and Often

    South of Midnight Screenshot

    As mentioned above, you can speed through the upgrade tree with a bit of exploration – and when you start hitting harder combat sequences, you’ll thank yourself for doing it. Even on its regular difficulty level, South of Midnight’s combat packs a punch, with even the most basic Haint enemies removing whole chunks of your health bar after a single hit – never mind when you come up against a Mythical Creature. Upgrades are your means of turning the tables.

    Upgrades tend to focus more on offering you added perks, rather than simply buffing an ability’s existing stats. When you Unravel a downed enemy to claw back some health, for example, you can add an area of-effect blast to stagger any nearby Haints before you get back into the fray. Adding a quick double-dodge to your repertoire, meanwhile, will come in very handy when you start meeting enemies that can quick-fire multiple projectiles. Take the time to explore the skill tree, and prioritize upgrades that look like they’ll solve problems.

    Use Dodges as Attack and Defence

    South of Midnight Screenshot

    Hazel doesn’t have the ability to block attacks – but she more than makes up for that with a powerful bonus to her dodge. Hitting the dodge button will help you escape in any direction (with some invulnerability frames thrown in) – but hitting a perfectly timed dodge, just before you’re hit, comes with a nasty surprise for whoever was trying to hurt you.

    Perfect Dodges send out a blast of energy, staggering any enemy around you and doing some nice damage, too. It’s worth paying attention to not just what attacks enemies can do, but the time it takes to pull them off – pretty soon, you can be doing almost as much damage by not attacking.

    Use Spells as Interrupts

    South of Midnight Screenshot

    As we mentioned, getting hit in South of Midnight can get very nasty, very quickly – and while Hazel has that handy dodge, it can sometimes be easier simply to stop an attack in the first place. Against most enemies, throwing out a spell – whether that’s a Pull, a Push, or a Weave (which incapacitates most Haints) – will break them out of an attack completely.

    While it’s tempting to spam your spells as soon as they’ve cooled down, we’d recommend keeping one in reserve as an emergency interrupt – if you see an enemy winding up during your combo, simply hit them with a spell and keep thwacking.

    Chain Your Spells

    South of Midnight Screenshot

    If you really want to keep an enemy locked down, you can use your full spell repertoire to keep attacks going without interruption. This is particularly useful once you have a few upgrades under your belt.

    For example, you could Pull an enemy towards you, with an added Weave effect (which you can also upgrade to have them take more damage while tied up). As soon as they break free, Weave them again with that core spell – and when they break free again, use Push to deal some damage and keep your distance, before charging up your ranged attack to deal the killer blow.

    With a bit of practice, enemies that felt like they took an age of dodging and poking to beat in the early game can begin to go down in a single combo – it’s extremely satisfying.

    South of Midnight will be available on April 8, 2025, on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam and cloud, and arrives on day one with Game Pass. Play from today by purchasing the Premium Edition, and get access to digital extras.

    South of Midnight Premium Edition
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    South of Midnight Premium Edition

    Xbox Game Studios

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $49.99

    Immerse yourself into the macabre and fantastical world of South of Midnight with the Premium Edition, which includes the full game, up to 5 days early access, and digital access (in English) to: • South of Midnight Artbook • Original Soundtrack composed by Olivier Deriviere
    • The Boo-Hag Comic book by Rob Guillory
    • Music Video: Songs & Tales of South of Midnight • Documentary: Weaving Hazel’s Journey, Director’s Cut UNRAVEL THE PAST From the creators of Contrast and We Happy Few, South of Midnight is a spellbinding third person action-adventure game set in the American Deep South. As Hazel, you will explore the mythos and encounter creatures of Southern folklore in a macabre and fantastical world. When disaster strikes her hometown, Hazel is called to become a Weaver: a magical mender of broken bonds and spirits. Imbued with these new abilities, Hazel will confront and subdue dangerous creatures, untangle the webs of her own family’s shared past and – if she’s lucky – find her way to a place that feels like home. A DARK MODERN FOLKTALE When a hurricane rips through Prospero, Hazel is pulled into a Southern Gothic world of memory made real and must embark on a journey to rescue her mother and safeguard her hometown. In this folktale for modern times, Hazel will need to reconcile the weight of family, history, and legacy against her own identity. CONFRONT MYTHICAL CREATURES Wield an ancient power to restore creatures and uncover the traumas that consume them. Cast weaving magic to fight destructive Haints, explore the diverse regions of the South, and reweave the tears in the Grand Tapestry. HAUNTING BEAUTY OF THE GOTHIC SOUTH Discover the lush, decayed county of Prospero and its locals. Experience a crafted visual style, touching storytelling, and immersive music inspired by the complex and rich history of the South.

    South of Midnight
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    South of Midnight

    Xbox Game Studios

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $39.99

    From the creators of Contrast and We Happy Few, South of Midnight is a spellbinding third person action-adventure game set in the American Deep South. As Hazel, you will explore the mythos and encounter creatures of Southern folklore in a macabre and fantastical world. When disaster strikes her hometown, Hazel is called to become a Weaver: a magical mender of broken bonds and spirits. Imbued with these new abilities, Hazel will confront and subdue dangerous creatures, untangle the webs of her own family’s shared past and – if she’s lucky – find her way to a place that feels like home. A DARK MODERN FOLKTALE When a hurricane rips through Prospero, Hazel is pulled into a Southern Gothic world of memory made real and must embark on a journey to rescue her mother and safeguard her hometown. In this folktale for modern times, Hazel will need to reconcile the weight of family, history, and legacy against her own identity. CONFRONT MYTHICAL CREATURES
    Wield an ancient power to restore creatures and uncover the traumas that consume them. Cast weaving magic to fight destructive Haints, explore the diverse regions of the South, and reweave the tears in the Grand Tapestry. HAUNTING BEAUTY OF THE GOTHIC SOUTH
    Discover the lush, decayed county of Prospero and its locals. Experience a crafted visual style, touching storytelling, and immersive music inspired by the complex and rich history of the South.

    Website: LINK

  • Monstrous 40ft Alligator, Two-Toed Tom Spotted Near New Orleans (with a Gaming Lounge in His Mouth)

    Monstrous 40ft Alligator, Two-Toed Tom Spotted Near New Orleans (with a Gaming Lounge in His Mouth)

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    Summary

    • Two-Toed Tom, a legendary beast of Southern folklore, comes to life in South of Midnight, the new action-adventure from Compulsion Games
    • To celebrate the launch, Xbox has recreated Two-Toed Tom and dropped him in a real gator-infested bayou for a truly unique gaming experience. Register now for a chance to enter the belly of the beast.
    • South of Midnight launches on April 8, or play now with the Premium Edition.

    Deep in the heart of the bayou, something stirs. Bigger than any gator you’ve ever seen, Two-Toed Tom is a legend of scales, survival, and insatiable hunger. More than double the size of the world’s biggest recorded alligator, Tom is an unstoppable force of nature.

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f4xKyVXYGg?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    To celebrate the launch of South of Midnight, in which Tom makes a very big appearance, Xbox has brought this monstrous gator to life in the gator-infested waters of Marrero, Louisiana, a location chosen for its haunting resemblance to the game’s Southern-inspired setting. Murky swamps, ancient cypress trees, and the distant splash of unseen creatures make it the perfect place to step into Hazel’s world and experience the bayou’s dark magic first-hand.

    Our recreation of Tom is truly startling – at 40 feet long, his jaws alone stand open at almost twice the height of a person, and inside his belly lies a 20-foot cabin, inspired by the very one that Hazel, the protagonist of South of Midnight lives in.

    Website: LINK

  • Free Play Days – Age of Wonders 4, Dead by Daylight, Catan and Everspace 2 

    Free Play Days – Age of Wonders 4, Dead by Daylight, Catan and Everspace 2 

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    It’s another jam-packed weekend and a Free Play Days first, with Age of Wonders 4 unlocked on both console and PC!  

    Dead by Daylight, Catan and Everspace 2 are available this weekend for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Standard and Core members to play from Thursday April 3 at 12:01am Pacific until Sunday, April 6 at 11:59pm Pacific.

    Age of Wonders 4 is free for all Xbox members to try from April 3 until April 6 (Xbox Game Pass Game Pass Ultimate, Standard and Core membership not required). Additionally, those on PC can try the game for free through the Xbox App.  

    How To Start Playing

    Find and install the games on each of the individual game details page on Xbox.com. Clicking through will send you to the Microsoft Store, where you must be signed in to see the option to install with your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Standard and Core membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and navigate down to the Free Play Days collection on your Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.

    Keep The Fun Going

    Purchase the game and other editions at a limited time discount and continue playing while keeping your Gamerscore and achievements earned during the event! Please note that discounts, percentages, and title availability may vary by title and region.

    Free Play Days (Xbox Game Pass Membership Required)

    Age of Wonders 4

    Age of Wonders 4

    Paradox Interactive

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 223

    ★★★★★

    $49.99 $32.49

    Age of Wonders 4 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
    Rule a fantasy realm of your own design in Age of Wonders 4! Explore new magical realms in Age of Wonders’ signature blend of 4X strategy and turn-based tactical combat. Control a faction that grows and changes as you expand your empire with each turn. Explore more Age of Wonders 4 additional content together with the latest expansion – Giant Kings. 

    Dead by Daylight

    Dead by Daylight

    Behaviour Interactive Inc.

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 1596

    ★★★★★

    $29.99 $11.99

    Xbox Game Pass

    Dead by Daylight 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery
    Trapped forever in a realm of eldritch evil where even death is not an escape, four determined Survivors face a bloodthirsty Killer in a vicious game of nerve and wits. Pick a side and step into a world of tension and terror with horror gaming’s best asymmetrical multiplayer. 

    CATAN® - Console Edition

    CATAN® – Console Edition

    Dovetail Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 208

    ★★★★★

    $16.99 $5.09

    Catan 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery
    A Board Game that comes to life! Catan is reimagined on Xbox, with an interactive board, online multiplayer, couch multiplayer, and all the fun (and frustration) of the classic board game beloved by enthusiasts all over the globe.  

    EVERSPACE™ 2
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    EVERSPACE™ 2

    ROCKFISH Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 264

    ★★★★★

    $49.99

    Free Trial

    Everspace 2 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Play Anywhere
    Take flight in this fast-paced single-player space shooter, where vicious encounters and brutal challenges stand between you and that next epic loot drop. Explore the war-torn star systems of the Demilitarized Zone of Cluster 34—each massive handcrafted area is packed with secrets, puzzles, and perils to encounter. 

    Website: LINK

  • Grand Theft Auto V erscheint am 15. April im Game Pass und PC Game Pass

    Grand Theft Auto V erscheint am 15. April im Game Pass und PC Game Pass

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    Wenn Du die Straßen von Los Santos vermisst hast, gibt es gute Nachrichten: Grand Theft Auto V ist ab dem 15. April wieder im Game Pass verfügbar! Und für diejenigen von uns, die am PC spielen, wird es sogar noch besser: GTAV Enhanced ist ab dann auch im PC Game Pass verfügbar – inklusive der neuesten Updates wie Haos Special Works Vehicles und vieles mehr.

    Ultimate-, PC- und Standard-Mitglieder – behaltet am 15. April @GamePass und @XboxGamePassPC im Auge, um unseren „Heute verfügbar“-Reminder nicht zu verpassen!

    GTA Online-Features

    Alle, die GTAV Enhanced auf dem PC spielen, erhalten Zugriff auf neue Fahrzeuge und Modifikationen, Chamäleon-Lackierungen und vieles mehr in Haos Special Works.

    Wenn Du GTA Online gemeinsam mit Deinen Freund*innen spielen möchtest, muss musst Du sicherstellen, dass ihr dieselbe Edition nutzt.

    Die gute Nachricht: Game Pass Ultimate und Game Pass Standard-Mitglieder haben Zugriff auf alle Konsolen- und PC-Editionen haben, sodass Du einfach die Edition herunterladen kannst, mit der Deine Freund*innen spielen. PC Game Pass-Spieler*innen können beide Editionen herunterladen und spielen, auch wenn Deine Freund*innen Steam oder Epic Games verwenden.

    Neues Update: Oscar Guzman fliegt wieder

    Egal, welche Version Du spielst − alle haben Zugriff auf das neueste Update Oscar Guzman fliegt wieder, mit dem Du in die Lüfte steigen und die Kontrolle über den McKenzie Field Hanger in Grapeseed übernehmen kannst. Spiele neue Waffenhandelsmissionen, fliege neue Flugzeuge und vieles mehr.

    Während Du auf den 15. April wartest, kannst Du Dir die Grand Theft Auto-Radio-Playlists auf Spotify anhören, um in Stimmung zu kommen, bevor Du wieder die Straßen von Los Santos eroberst. Bleib dran und behalte @GamePass und @XboxGamePassPC im Blick – bis bald!

    Auf Deiner Reise lernst Du Hazel kennen, die die magische Kraft des Webens erlangt hat, nachdem ihre Mutter einer katastrophalen Flut zum Opfer gefallen ist. Auf der Suche nach ihr und nach Antworten, was genau hier eigentlich vor sich geht, muss Hazel eine verzerrte Version des Südens durchqueren. Unterwegs trifft sie immer wieder auf verdorbene Feinde, die aus dem Leid der Welt entstanden sind. Außerdem heilt sie die Wunden von mythischen Kreaturen, die von den Entwickler*innen von Compulsion Games zum Leben erweckt wurden.

    Als Besitzer*in der Premium Edition kannst Du ab heute starten (ehe South of Midnight am 8. April für die gesamte Community erscheint). Zur Feier dieses lang erwarteten Tages haben wir einige Tipps zusammengestellt, die Dir sowohl bei der Erkundung der Gegend als auch im Kampf gegen Deine Widersacher helfen. Mach Dich bereit für eine unerwartete Reise!

    Website: LINK

  • Grand Theft Auto V Coming to Game Pass and PC Game Pass on April 15

    Grand Theft Auto V Coming to Game Pass and PC Game Pass on April 15

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    If you’ve been missing the streets of Los Santos, I’m excited to share that Grand Theft Auto V is making its way back to Game Pass on April 15! And for those of us who play on PC, I’m even happier to announce that GTAV Enhanced will be playable with PC Game Pass, and includes the latest features, like Hao’s Special Works Vehicles and more.

    Ultimate, PC, and Standard players — keep an eye on @GamePass and @XboxGamePassPC on April 15 for our favorite “available today” reminder!  

    GTA Online Features 

    Everyone playing GTAV Enhanced on PC will have access to new vehicles and modifications, Chameleon Paints, and a bunch more all in Hao’s Special Works.  

    When playing GTA Online, you’ll need to make sure you and your friends are all playing in the same edition so you can squad up — the good news is that Game Pass Ultimate and Game Pass Standard players have access to all console and PC editions so you can download to play whatever your friends are on. And PC Game Pass players, both editions are available for you to download and play, even if your friends are on Steam or Epic Games.  

    Oscar Guzman Flies Again  

    No matter what version you’re playing, everyone will have access to Oscar Guzman Flies Again, the latest update where you can take to the skies — taking control of the McKenzie Field Hanger in Grapeseed. Play new arms trafficking missions, fly new aircraft, and more. 

    While you’re waiting for April 15, you can check out the Grand Theft Auto Radio playlists on Spotify to whet your appetite before getting back into the streets of Los Santos. Keep an eye on @GamePass and @XboxGamePassPC and we’ll talk soon! 

    Website: LINK

  • Supporting teachers to integrate AI in K–12 CS education

    Supporting teachers to integrate AI in K–12 CS education

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    Teaching about artificial intelligence (AI) is a growing challenge for educators around the world. In our current seminar series, we are gaining insights from international computing education researchers on how to teach about AI and data science in the classroom. In our second seminar, Franz Jetzinger from the Technical University of Munich, Germany, presented his work on supporting teachers to integrate AI into their classrooms. Franz brings a wealth of relevant experience to his research as an accomplished textbook author and K–12 computer science teacher.

    A photo of Franz Jetzinger in a library.

    Franz started by demonstrating how widespread AI systems and technologies are becoming. He argued that embedding lessons about AI in the classroom presents three challenges: 

    1. What to teach (defining AI and learning content)
    2. How to teach (i.e. appropriate pedagogies)
    3. How to prepare teachers (i.e. effective professional development) 

    As various models and frameworks for teaching about AI already exist, Franz’s research aims to address the second and third challenges — there is a notable lack of empirical evidence integrating AI in K–12 settings or teacher professional development (PD) to support teachers.

    Using professional development to help prepare teachers

    In Bavaria, computer science (CS) has been a compulsory high school subject for over 20 years. However, a recent update has brought compulsory CS lessons (including AI) to Year 11 students (15–16 years old). Competencies targeted in the new curriculum include defining AI, explaining the functionality of different machine learning algorithms, and understanding how artificial neurons work.

    Two students are seated at a desk, collaborating on a computing task.

    To help prepare teachers to effectively teach this new curriculum and about AI, Franz and colleagues derived a set of core competencies to be used along with existing frameworks (e.g. the Five Big Ideas of AI) and the Bavarian curriculum. The PD programme Franz and colleagues developed was shaped by a set of key design principles:

    1. Blended learning: A blended format was chosen to address the need for scalability and limited resources and to enable self-directed and active learning 
    2. Dual-level pedagogy (or ‘pedagogical double-decker’): Teachers were taught with the same materials to be used in the classroom to aid familiarity
    3. Advanced organiser: A broad overview document was created to support teachers learning new topics 
    4. Moodle: An online learning platform was used to enable collaboration and communication via a MOOC (massive open online course)

    Analysing the effectiveness of the PD programme

    Over 300 teachers attended the MOOC, which had an introductory session beforehand and a follow-up workshop. The programme’s effectiveness was evaluated with a pre/post assessment where teachers completed a survey of 15 closed, multiple-choice questions on their AI competencies and knowledge. Pre/post comparisons showed teachers’ scores improved significantly having taken part in the PD. This is surprising as a large proportion of participants achieved high pre-scores, indicating a highly motivated cohort with notable prior experience teaching about AI.

    Additionally, a group of teachers (n=9) were invited to give feedback on which aspects of the PD programme they felt contributed to the success of implementing the curriculum in the classroom. They reported that the PD programme supported content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge well, but they required additional support to design suitable learning assessments.

    The design of the professional development programme

    Using action research to aid AI teaching 

    A separate strand of Franz’s research focuses on the other key challenge of how to effectively teach about AI. Franz engaged teachers (n=14) in action research, a method whereby teachers engage in classroom-based research projects. The project explored what topic-specific difficulties students faced during the lessons and how teachers adapted their teaching to overcome these challenges.

    The AI curriculum in Bavaria

    Findings revealed that students struggled with determining whether AI would benefit certain tasks (e.g. object recognition, text-to-speech) or not (e.g. GPS positioning, sorting data). Franz and colleagues reasoned that students were largely not aware of how AI systems deal with uncertainty and overestimated their capabilities. Therefore, an important step in teaching students about AI is defining ‘what an AI problem is’. 

    A teenager learning computer science.

    Similarly, students struggled with distinguishing between rule-based and data-driven approaches, believing in some cases that a trained model becomes ‘rule-based’ or that all data models are data-driven. Students also struggled with certain data science concepts, such as hyperparameter, overfitting and underfitting, and information gain. Franz’s team argue that the chosen tool, Orange Data Mining, did not provide an appropriate scaffold for encountering these concepts. 

    Finally, teachers found challenges in bringing real-world examples into the classroom, including the use of reinforcement learning and neural networks. Franz and colleagues reasoned that focusing on the function of neural networks, as opposed to their structure, would aid student understanding. The use of high-quality (i.e. well-prepared) real-world data sets was also suggested as a strategy for bridging theoretical ideas with practical examples. 

    Addressing the challenges of teaching AI

    Franz’s research provides important insights into the discipline-specific challenges educators face when introducing AI into the classroom. It also underscores the importance of appropriate professional development and age-appropriate and research-informed materials and tools to support students engaging with ideas about AI, data science, and machine learning.

    Students sitting in a lecture at a university.

    Further reading and resources

    If you are interested in reading more about Franz’s work on teacher professional development, you can read his paper on a scalable professional development offer for computer science teachers or you can learn more about his research group here.

    Join our next seminar

    In our current seminar series, we are exploring teaching about AI and data science. Join us at our next seminar on Tuesday 8 April at 17:00–18:30 BST to hear David Weintrop, Rotem Israel-Fishelson, and Peter F. Moon from the University of Maryland introduce ‘API Can Code’, an interest-driven data science curriculum for high-school students.

    To sign up and take part in the seminar, click the button below; we will then send you information about joining. We hope to see you there.

    The schedule of our upcoming seminars is online. You can catch up on past seminars on our previous seminars and recordings page.

    Website: LINK