It was the year of generative artificial intelligence and a set-up for more immersive AR and VR, as 2023 saw its fair share of highs and lows in the tech hardware landscape, continuing the traditional of yearly refreshes and upgrades. For the most part, flagship gadgets basked in the spotlight, leading the charge with evolutionary, but not revolutionary experiences.

Among the heavyweights, however, are the overlooked players that delivered. From flagship smartphones and gaming laptops to lifestyle products, here are our top tech picks for the returning Geek Culture Awards 2024.

BEST SMARTPHONE (Gold): Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

Small changes mean little on their own, but together, they can go a long way in improving the user experience. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the culmination of the little things that matter, including a brush-finished titanium design (which should inspire a slew of phone makers to follow suit in 2024), an all-new turbocharged A17 Pro chip, and improved camera capabilities — among others. Apple has long established itself as a trailblazer within the industry, and it’s easy to see just why.

BEST SMARTPHONE (Silver): OPPO Find N3

In an oversaturated market, the OPPO Find N3 stood out with its near-perfect take on foldable devices. The flagship offering builds on its impressive predecessor to bring a diverse repertoire of intuitive features, a nearly crease-less design, and powerful photo-taking hardware powered by camera giant Hasselblad. A high-performing all-rounder, it outclasses the competition in almost every way.

BEST SMARTPHONE CAMERA (Gold): Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The most premium of Samsung’s high-end lineup, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is a photography darling for users who like to capture images while on the move. It runs a 200MP camera, offering bright colours with greatly reduced oversaturation (an issue that continues to plague previous models), sharp detail in low-light environments, and a nifty array of other features. There’s plenty to love about the device, and its improved camera performance is at the top of the list.

BEST SMARTPHONE CAMERA (Silver): Xiaomi 13 Ultra

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra comes armed with the Leica guarantee, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. From crisp detail and well-balanced exposure to natural colours, it delivers in the areas the matter most, with various filters and photo modes tailoring to different styles. Additionally, the huge circular module lends a refreshing touch to the design, breaking the monotony of similar-looking phones on the market, and reinforcing its camera-focused identity.

BEST PRODUCTIVITY (Gold): Macbook Air 15 (M2)

A powerhouse that can juggle both work and entertainment with ease, the Macbook Air 15 (M2) continues to prove that size doesn’t equate power. Measuring just 1.15 cm and tipping the scales at 1.51 kg for the base model, it bundles hardware prowess with visual glory and audio immersion for an all-rounded experience. A reliable and handy companion, the laptop is ideal for those seeking more screen real estate.

BEST PRODUCTIVITY (Silver): ASUS Zenbook 15 OLED

For non-Apple MacOS users, the ASUS Zenbook 15 OLED would be their best bet. The slim and lightweight laptop promises exceptional visuals and good performance, packing enough horsepower to run most applications without hiccups. Also capable of some light gaming, it shows that functionality can easily go hand-with-hand with stylish aesthetics, offering a one-stop solution for users productivity and leisure.

BEST GAMING (Gold): MSI Titan GT77HX

Laptop gaming doesn’t get any better than the MSI Titan GT77HX. At a whopping S$9,300, it packs a powerful punch that won’t only make desktop owners jealous, but also offers a tantalising taste of gaming nirvana. Ultra-fast speeds, silky smooth performance, and efficient cooling technology — you name it, and it’s there.

BEST GAMING (Silver): Acer Predator Helios Neo 16

True to its namesake, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 dominates on the field as an apex, well, predator. It looks good, plays well, and arms users with an array of features, with its range of entry-level to high-end configurations easily meeting different demands. Where the former is an option for those with leaner wallets, the more enthusiastic gamers can turn to the fully-specced builds for maximum enjoyment.

BEST AUDIO (Gold): Sennheiser Profile USB Microphone

A good microphone goes a long way, and the Sennheiser Profile USB Microphone is a solid pick for everyday use. Available in two versions, the table-stand Profile and the boom arm Profile Streaming Set, it promises great ease of access for both causal users and content creators. Simply plug it into a computer, and let Sennheiser work its magic.

BEST AUDIO (Silver): Creative Sound Blaster Katana SE

Immersion means little without good audio, so it falls to the Creative Sound Blaster Katana SE to enhance the sound stage. The middle sibling of the Katana V2 soundbar series, it ditches the subwoofer for a more compact design, with heavier emphasis on the mids and highs. More importantly, it’s loud and reliable, making it a viable soundbar for those who like to put their volume on full blast.

BEST DISPLAY (Gold): Samsung S95C OLED TV

The Samsung S95C OLED TV is bright and big, but don’t be fooled by its glitzy appearance. There’s plenty of horsepower packed within its 77-inch body, which translates brilliantly onto the cutting-edge 4K display. Scoring well in all areas, this TV is one to put on your list of considerations with its eye-popping visuals and impressive audio – if you have the room to spare, that is.

BEST DISPLAY (Silver): Sony Bravia XR A80K OLED 4K TV

A gem amid the mid-range models, the Sony Bravia XR A80K OLED 4K TV is well worth its price. In addition to beautiful images, it comes packed with a rich array of features, including an efficient user interface, room-filling sound, and an external camera that allows users to enjoy even more functionality. Highly recommended for users seeking a well-rounded home theatre setup.

BEST ACCESSORY (Gold): Logitech G Pro X TKL Keyboard & Superlight 2 Mouse

Speed is the name of the game with the Logitech G Pro X TKL Keyboard and Superlight 2 Mouse. Fast, light, and feature-rich, the high-performing duo proves to be an invaluable addition to any gamer’s arsenal, with competitive titles bringing out the best of their combined potential. Bonus points for its clean, elegant all-white look, too.

BEST ACCESSORY (Silver): Belkin BoostCharge Pro Wireless Charger + Power Bank

If there’s one word to describe the Belkin BoostCharge Pro Wireless Charger + Power Bank, ‘convenience’ would be it. A nifty all-in-one accessory, it reduces carrying bulk by allowing users to charge multiple devices while on the move, which is perfect for packing light and travelling. The best part? It can charge everything from Android phones and Apple devices to even the Apple Watch.

BEST LIFESTYLE (Gold): TP-Link Tapo RV30 Plus LiDAR Navigation Robot Vacuum

A clean home makes for a happy home, and the TP-Link Tapo RV30 Plus presents an efficient solution. Equipped with a high-precision dual navigation system, the robot vacuum is designed to be intuitive and reliable, serving as a great investment for those looking to streamline their cleaning routine. Adding to the convenience is a user-friendly app, which can be used to control it from anywhere.

BEST LIFESTYLE (Silver): Dyson V12s Detect Slim Submarine

The most comprehensive cleaning machine from Dyson, the V12s Detect Slim Submarine‘s greatest appeal lies in its ability to clean mixed floorings. Not only does the wet-and-dry vacuum let users vacuum and mop at the same time, it comes with multiple heads that work best in different environments. Need to vacuum carpeted surfaces? There’s the Motorbar Cleaner Head. Can’t reach the deep corners of a room? The Crevice Tool gets the job done.

Head over to Geek Culture Awards 2024: The Best of Entertainment to find out the best movies, shows, and games that left an indelible mark on 2023!

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Geek Culture Awards 2024: The Best Of Tech appeared first on Geek Culture.

2023 wasn’t just another year; it exploded as a dazzling showcase of entertainment spanning multiple formats, as streaming services launched into hyperdrive, bombarding us with must-watch shows, while film studios delved into our collective childhood, rejuvenating classic franchises that both warmed our hearts and dominated the box office. As for the gaming world, selecting a top pick was like picking a single star in a universe of hits.

So, dive in as we dissect the year’s pop culture phenomena, from the cultural shockwave of Barbenheimer to the tear-jerking finale of your favourite season finale. We’ll crown the kings and queens of streaming, hail the heroes (and villains) who rocked the silver screen, and award the golden pixels to the games that kept us glued to our consoles.

But enough reminiscing, it’s time to crown the champions! Brace yourself, popcorn prepped, controllers charged – the Geek Culture Awards 2024 are here to celebrate the Best of Entertainment!

BEST MOVIE (Gold): Oppenheimer

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, led by an exceptional performance from Cillian Murphy, is a cinematic tour de force that masterfully intertwines complex character building and non-linear storytelling. This biographical epic delves deep into the life of noted scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer, brilliantly capturing the dualities of his character amidst the backdrop of the Manhattan Project.

Supported by a stellar cast including Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., and Emily Blunt, and elevated by Ludwig Göransson’s powerful score, the film offers a riveting, multi-faceted portrayal of one of history’s most enigmatic figures, solidifying itself as a monumental achievement in filmmaking that is deserving of first place.

BEST MOVIE (Silver): Barbie

Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, transcends its playful premise to deliver a witty and profound exploration of feminism, identity, and societal norms. The film ingeniously uses the iconic doll to navigate through complex themes such as sexism, the fragility of masculinity, and the impacts of patriarchy, all while maintaining a delightful sense of humor and self-awareness.

With its vibrant Barbiecore aesthetic, a star-studded cast delivering memorable performances, and a narrative that balances insightful social commentary with light-hearted fun, Barbie proves to be an entertaining yet thought-provoking experience for all audiences. Gerwig’s skillful direction turns a seemingly simple story into a kaleidoscope of human emotions and societal reflections, making Barbie a standout film that is both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating.

Honourable Mentions: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, The Boy and the Heron, Killers of the Flower Moon, Gran Turismo

BEST STREAMING SHOW (Gold): Reacher – Season 2

Amazon Prime’s Reacher triumphantly returns for a second season, elevating Lee Child’s titular character with sharper writing, and Alan Ritchson’s remarkable portrayal of the military man turned drifter. The series, which dives deeper into Reacher’s military past alongside former Master Sergeant Frances Neagley, captivates with its blend of brutal, realistic action and a commanding presence by Ritchson, who embodies Reacher with a mix of forceful intensity and charming wit.

In a year filled with great streaming shows from Netflix, Disney+ and Apple TV+, the adaptation stands out for its excellent casting, well-choreographed action sequences, and a compelling narrative that doesn’t rely on elaborate budgets but rather on strong storytelling and character development.

BEST STREAMING SHOW (Silver): Monarch: Legacy of Monsters

Apple TV’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, the latest installment in the MonsterVerse franchise, skillfully blends monstrous mayhem with compelling human drama. Spanning 10 episodes, the series introduces two groups of characters across different timelines, intricately connected by the secretive organisation, Monarch.

With a narrative that alternates between post-Godzilla attacks and the discovery of Godzilla and other titans, the show offers a perfect balance of action and emotional depth. Enhanced by remarkable CGI and realistic worldbuilding, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters grounds the MonsterVerse in a way that appeals to both longstanding fans and newcomers, making it a standout series that competes with major franchises in depth, storytelling, and visual spectacle.

Honourable Mentions: The Last of Us, One Piece, Percy Jackson and The Olympians, The Glory

BEST GAME (Gold): Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Don your mask, heroes, this city needs you. Insomniac Games swings into a new era with Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, an electrifying web-slinging extravaganza that explodes with heart-pumping action and emotional depth. Buckle up as Peter Parker and Miles Morales tag-team against Manhattan’s most notorious villains, their iconic powers amplified by sleek Web Wings and mind-blowing combat moves.

This 25+ hour web-crawler odyssey throws you headfirst into a vibrant New York City teeming with hidden secrets and pulse-pounding encounters. Whether you’re soaring through neon-drenched skyscrapers or weaving through labyrinthine rooftops, the city becomes your ultimate playground, every wall a canvas for your acrobatic justice. Prepare to spin a new legend in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, the superhero game that redefines the genre.

BEST GAME (Silver): Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon

FromSoftware and Bandai Namco throw down the gauntlet with Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon. Forge your ultimate mech, then unleash hell on Rubicon 3, a planet crackling with political fury and a forbidden energy source. This isn’t your grandpa’s mech game, it’s a white-knuckled thrill ride of customisation, tactics, and gut-wrenching combat. No franchise knowledge needed, just a thirst for victory. Dive into a story of warring factions, ethical dilemmas, and explosive action. Fires of Rubicon is FromSoftware at its finest – a titan among giants.

Honourable Mentions: Baldur’s Gate 3, Pikmin 4, Alan Wake 2, Final Fantasy XVI

BEST GAME REMAKE (Gold): Resident Evil 4

The Resident Evil 4 remake by Capcom is a masterful reimagining of the survival horror classic, setting new standards in modern gaming. This remake enhances every aspect of the original, from a more fluid and dynamic control system to smarter enemy AI that challenges players in innovative ways. The game’s blend of action, stealth, and horror is paced impeccably, offering an unceasingly thrilling experience.

Visually and audibly stunning, the game leverages the RE Engine to bring its rural nightmare vividly to life. Not just a mere retouch, the remake enriches every facet of the game, making it more engaging and enjoyable, especially with the improved handling of companion Ashley and the revamping of memorable locations. With its enhanced combat mechanics, atmospheric world-building, and added replayability features, including New Game+ and upcoming DLCs, Capcom’s Resident Evil 4 remake, which now includes versions for Apple MacBooks and iPhone 14, transcends its legacy to deliver an unparalleled survival horror experience, becoming the new gold standard for the genre.

BEST GAME REMAKE (Silver): Dead Space

Claustrophobic corridors pulse with dread. Necromorph shrieks echo through the mangled hull of the USG Ishimura. Electronic Arts and Motive Studio’s Dead Space remake isn’t just a polished classic – it’s a bone-chilling plunge back into the abyss. This meticulously crafted reimagining amplifies the terror in every pixel, from Isaac Clarke’s desperate struggle to survive, to the viscerally detailed Necromorphs that stalk your every step. Prepare to scream as the Frostbite engine paints a horrifying masterpiece, where dismemberment becomes a strategic dance and zero-gravity becomes a twisted playground of terror. Forget nostalgia, this is a modern masterpiece of survival horror, surpassing its predecessor to become the definitive way to face your fears.

BEST INDIE GAME: Dave The Diver

Dave the Diver emerges as a delightful surprise in the indie game landscape, masterfully blending deep-sea diving adventures with sushi restaurant management. Dive headfirst into the kaleidoscopic Blue Hole, where you’ll spearfish vibrant fin-flappers, dodge jellyfish barrages, and uncover ancient sunken mysteries. On land, your cosy sushi bar awaits, with hungry patrons eager for your handcrafted salmon nigiri and playful octopus sashimi.

The gameplay loop is as addictive as a sea anemone’s grip, with seahorse racing, restaurant management, and a captivating storyline keeping you hooked. Sure, the boss squids might not put up much of a fight, but Dave the Diver is pure fun distilled into an underwater RPG, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment (and maybe a craving for sushi) long after you surface.

Honourable Mentions: Sea of Stars, Dredge, A Space for The Unbound

Head over to Geek Culture Awards 2024: The Best Of Tech to find out the tech products for the year 2023!

Natalie

Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.

The post Geek Culture Awards 2024: The Best Of Entertainment appeared first on Geek Culture.

Change is the only constant, and that’s just how things roll in the tech scene. With each passing year, there are always new devices and upgraded models to check out, ranging from high-end smartphones and audio picks to various accessories. 

2022 has seen its fair share of gadgets, presented through small improvements, overhauled aesthetics, imaginative design, and a combination of any or all three. It’s fairly standard business, but every now and then, there’ll be standouts that comes along to shake things up, and set a new standard for the market. 

These are the heavyweights that would go on to become the talk of the town, and which we celebrate here at Geek Culture. Making a return this year, the Geek Culture Awards 2023 has found its winners for each category, where the spirit of the very best can be found.

BEST SMARTPHONE (Gold): Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max

Apple has always been about pushing the boundaries of innovation, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max is no exception to the rule. Like most follow-up models, it offers incremental improvements, but pairs them with a handful of nifty new features, such as Always-on display and Dynamic Island. Coupled with a new 48MP camera and the latest A16 Bionic processor, the flagship proves its worth as a one-stop for gathering the best that Apple has to offer in one place.

BEST SMARTPHONE (Silver): Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

Samsung once again retains its title as the king of android smartphones. Not only is the Galaxy S22 Ultra the best in the Galaxy S family, it’s also the best Samsung Galaxy Note device out there, impressing users with a seamless combination of the finest qualities that are present in both models. 

Honourable mentions: Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, Google Pixel 7 Pro

BEST PRODUCTIVITY (Gold): ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED Space Edition

It looks good, works good, and sounds good. The ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED Space Edition is a solid all-rounder for productivity, and has the flair to go along with it – on top of space-themed accents and morse code messaging (yes, you read that right), there’s an extra screen on the back of the main display as well, which is used to show an idle animation, date and time, or a custom message. Who says productivity has to be boring?

BEST PRODUCTIVITY (Silver): Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022)

The MacBook Pro may be the most powerful member of the family, but the MacBook Air is by no means a slouch. Between the improved M2 chip, hardware upgrades, and revamped appearance, the sleek, and more affordable, machine continues to show why it’s consistently a top pick, offering value for money with an improved experience that’s difficult to beat. 

Honourable mentions: ASUS Zenbook Pro 16X OLED, ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED, Acer Swift Edge Ultrathin OLED

BEST GAMING (Gold): MSI Titan GT77

True to its name, the MSI Titan GT77 takes the top spot as the, well, titan of gaming laptops. A powerful desktop replacement, the 17.3-inch behemoth is the epitome of ‘size is king’, and packs a powerful punch with formidable hardware and software capabilities. There’s also the option to turn on RGB lighting, which brings an added bling to the gamer identity.

BEST GAMING (Silver): ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2022)

There are the big boys, and then there are the lightweight alternatives. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 continues to establish itself as a powerhouse that squeezes impressive specs into a slim chassis, combining style and substance to become a prime choice in the field of highly portable gaming laptops. 

Honourable mentions: Predator Triton 300 SE Gaming Laptop, ASUS ROG Flow Z13, Intel Raptor Canyon NUC 13 Extreme PC

BEST AUDIO (Gold): Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

It isn’t easy to stay at the top for long – unless you’re Sony, that is. Representing the apex of ANC technology, the WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones are the go-to choice for those who wish to drown out the world and enjoy the music, with no sacrifice made to audio quality.

BEST AUDIO (Silver): Razer Kraken V3 Pro HyperSense Wireless Headphones

Here’s one for the gamers. The Razer Kraken V3 Pro HyperSense Wireless Headphones offer great comfort, rich audio, and a wireless configuration, but the ultimate cherry on the top comes in the form of a haptics button, which adds tactile immersion during gameplay sessions. While the rumbling effect serves players of first-person shooters best, fans of other genres should still benefit from the headset’s gaming prowess. 

Honourable mentions: Creative Outlier Pro Earbuds, Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen), Sony INZONE H9 Wireless Cancelling Gaming

BEST LIFESTYLE (Gold): BenQ WiT Eye-Care Smart Desk Lamp

Good illumination? Check. Adjustable angles? Double check. Wide coverage? Triple check. Standing proud and tall, the BenQ WiT Eye-Care Smart Desk Lamp sports more heft than traditional desk lamps, and it isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The added inches, coupled with a wide 90cm dual LED light source, means that everything on a large surface will be illuminated nicely.

BEST LIFESTYLE (Silver): Secretlab MAGNUS Pro XL Sit-to-Stand Metal Desk

The Secretlab MAGNUS Pro XL Sit-to-Stand Metal Desk has a strong design element that looks good, but its primary function goes beyond looking pretty. Decked out in a stealthy, sturdy metal frame, it impresses as a sleek beast that rises and lowers silently, offering an alternative to those looking for a non-wood aesthetic in their homes. 

Honourable mentions: Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer AF300, Arcwave Voy, Brompton C Line Foldable E-bike

BEST ACCESSORY (Gold): ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX TKL Keyboard

One of the best tenkeyless (TKL) options on the market, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX furnishes its durable build with a slew of features, multiple connectivity options, and stable keys. The added comfort and speed are but a bonus for gaming enthusiasts looking to save some desk space.

BEST ACCESSORY (Silver): Belkin Boost Charge Pro 4-Port GaN Charger 108W

The Belkin Boost Charge Pro 4-Port GaN Charger is the ultimate all-in-one solution for all your charging needs, with its nice, portable form factor packing in a healthy dose of convenience and power. Say goodbye to multiple chargers, and hello to on-the-go charging goodness. 

Honourable mentions: Logitech MX Master 3S Ergonomic Mouse, Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Wireless, Apple Watch Ultra

BEST DISPLAY (Gold): Samsung S95B OLED TV

The search to perfect OLED technology remains an uphill task, but Samsung is no stranger to the hard work. Despite being relatively new to the market, the S95B TV blows away all expectations with its consistent performance and vibrant visuals, and serves as living proof of the brand’s continued pursuit for excellence.

BEST DISPLAY (Silver): LG C2 OLED TV 

Striking a good balance between a TV and desktop display is the LG C2 OLED TV. While smaller than its 48-inch C1 OLED predecessor, the 42-inch trooper cuts no corners and comes armed with a well-rounded kit to deliver increased immersion, which is conveyed through vivid, sharp images and fast refresh speeds. 

Honourable mentions: Alienware 34” Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor, BenQ MOBIUZ EX480UZ 4K OLED Gaming Monitor, PRISM+ 65AL OLED TV

BEST SMART HOME (Gold): Linksys Atlas Pro 6 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

Good things come in pairs, and it’s a statement that extends to the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System. Bundled into two or three units, it promises, and delivers, quicker speeds, enhanced security and improved connectivity to more devices on the network, but its greatest appeal lies in its affordability – users will get to enjoy Wi-Fi 6 features and performance at a fraction of the price of tri-band systems.

BEST SMART HOME (Silver): TP-Link Deco Voice X20 – AX1800 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

The Wi-Fi system of choice for multi-device households, the TP-Link Deco Voice X20 is a space-saving two-in one pick that can easily be set up without any fuss, with a built-in Alexa voice assistant helping to ease the burden of managing connected devices by turning into a control centre.

Honourable mentions: Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Wireless Security Camera, ASUS ZenWiFi Pro XT12 Mesh Router

Head over to Geek Culture Awards 2023: The Best of Entertainment to find out the best movies, shows, and games that left an indelible mark on 2022!

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Geek Culture Awards 2023: The Best Of Tech appeared first on Geek Culture.

2022 was a year of celebrating the revival of entertainment. Streaming services have been working at full speed, releasing hit TV shows and originals that viewers are quite literally, spoilt for choice. Studios have been feeding our inner child by putting out nostalgic sequels and superhero films, and the world of video games has hits after hits that a favourite is so hard to pick! Though, that doesn’t mean we won’t try too. 

After hours spent being couch potatoes binge-watching new shows, chomping down popcorn at every screening and sleep lost because we stayed up all night gaming, it’s time to recognise the Best of Entertainment in the Geek Culture Awards 2023!

BEST MOVIE (Gold): Top Gun: Maverick

I am where I belong, Sir.

You got that right Maverick – up there at the top. This one is a clear winner and will be hard to top (oh pun definitely intended) moving into 2023. The best movie of the year goes to Top Gun: Maverick, Tom Cruise’s nostalgic sequel that respects the past and honours the legacy of the key characters in the original. Come for the memories, stay for the new chapter, and fly with the pilots again in the cockpit of an F-18. 

BEST MOVIE (Silver): The Batman

He’s vengeance and while Robert Pattinson’s The Batman is not an origin story, Matt Reeves’ take on the Dark Knight and Battinson’s performance makes The Batman a unique comic book movie. The movie does not follow a tried and tested formula, and Batman continues to set its own tone and rules for other comic book superheroes to follow. In The Batman, the vigilante ventures into Gotham City’s underworld when a sadistic killer leaves behind a trail of cryptic clues and starts to unravel the abuse of power and corruption that has long plagued the metropolis. 

Honourable Mentions: The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Avatar: The Way of Water, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever 

BEST STREAMING SHOW (Gold): House of the Dragon (HBO Go)

After a disastrous final season of Game of Thrones, HBO Go’s House of the Dragon is just what fans need. A strong cast, compelling characters and a gripping storyline surrounding the revered House Targaryen, House of the Dragon portrays the events leading up to the beginning of the decline of House Targaryen, a devastating war of succession known as the Dance of the Dragons. 

BEST STREAMING SHOW (Silver): Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (Paramount+)

Boldly going where no Star Trek show has gone before, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds warped out of space dock as a direct prequel to the original Star Trek TV series, and blew audiences and fans away by being socially relevant, exciting, invigorating, while also respectful to the source material, and not afraid to take leaps in the right direction, thereby surpassing all the other recent live-action Star Trek shows available. For fans who have never been keen on recasting of any types, especially with fan-favourite characters, the series placed new actors in familiar roles, and gave us a new Star Trek trinity, of Captain Christopher Pike, First Officer Number One, and Science Officer Spock. Anson Mount, Rebecca Romijn and Ethan Peck play Pike, Number One and Spock respectively to a T, and our only complaint is that as a streaming service, we don’t get the usual 20-plus episode season, but a fine 10-episode one that is too darn short. If this is the future of Star Trek, then Live Long and Prosper.

Honourable Mentions: Stranger Things (Season 4), She-Hulk: Attorney At Law, Peacemaker, Prey 

BEST STREAMING SERVICE (Gold): Disney+ 

This may be a little no-brainer for Geeks like ourselves whose watchlists are just superhero and sci-fi content. Disney+ and Marvel Studios have been releasing a slew of new Marvel TV series like Ms Marvel and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law amongst many others, and all the new series from Lucasfilm are just the cherry on top. 

BEST STREAMING SERVICE (Silver): Netflix

Anime lovers already know that Netflix is where it’s at if you’re looking for a series – old and new – to binge on. Aside from the service’s impressive library of anime and Japanese content, Netflix also has numerous book-to-series adaptations that novel and book lovers look forward to like The Sandman and The Gray Man, as well as films like Glass Onion which was inspired by Agatha Christie’s novels.

BEST GAME (Gold): Elden Ring

Elden Ring won Best Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2022 and we completely agree as it takes the Best Game at the Geek Culture Awards 2023 too. An almost neverending treasure trove of amazing combat experiences interspersed with an inviting world full of surprises, Elden Ring is FromSoftware’s best game ever for its fans, and that is no mean feat. The world is ripe for exploration, the narrative keeps things fresh, intriguing and full of discoveries that will be a delight for a hardcore fanbase. 

BEST GAME (Gold): God of War Ragnarok

This. This game is one sequel that surpasses all godly expectations, and continues to showcase the AAA prowess of Sony’s first-party studios. The characters are wonderfully realised individuals, the visuals are amazing and the gameplay was engaging. Ascending beyond our wildest expectations, God of War Ragnarok bucks the trend of misfiring sequels and sets a new bar for video games in general, cementing Kratos and Atreus’ positions as true legends in this industry.

Honourable Mentions: Marvel’s Midnight Suns, Pokemon Legends: Arceus, Horizon Forbidden West 

BEST INDIE GAME: Cult of the Lamb 

If you have been searching for the lovechild of the stupendous games that are Hades and Stardew Valley, then Cult of the Lamb is the perfect panacea, combining addictive gameplay loops with an unassuming charm that just works to perfection. Committing to the evil idea of cults with a healthy dash of goofiness and complementary gameplay systems that are a delight, Cult of the Lamb has everything it needs to cast a spell on everyone.

Honourable Mentions: Tunic, I Was A Teenage Excolonist, Midnight Fight Express

Head over to Geek Culture Awards 2023: The Best Of Tech to find out the tech products for the year 2022!

A'bidah Zaid

Don’t judge a book by its cover, for behind all this makeup, is a geek just like you. To simply put it, superheroes, Star Wars, Harry Potter and all things gore and creepy makes this girly girl swoon.

The post Geek Culture Awards 2023: The Best Of Entertainment appeared first on Geek Culture.

The only constant is change and that’s also an apt description of the latest technological innovations by the biggest brands – there’s always something new every year. And even during a pandemic, brands have found reason to launch new gadgets and the deluge of products that we have to choose from this year has been incredible, either through incremental improvements, total revamps or imaginative design. This is the Geek Culture Awards 2022, where we celebrate the best in tech products launched in 2021!

To start 2022 with a bang, these are the tech products we tried out and loved in 2021 that left an indelible impression on us.

Here’s to a better 2022 and a big thank you and congratulations to our winners for making our lives easier.

BEST SMARTPHONE (Gold):
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is the best phone in the Android market bar none. With its phenomenal camera and innovative design, this is the camera phone for mobile photographers and content creators.

BEST SMARTPHONE (Silver):
Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max

The new Cinematic Mode here allows videographers to easily shift focus from one subject to another while filming, and it’s also the most fun feature on this new Apple iPhone. It lets users feel like they’re professional filmmakers, opening up new avenues for content creators. Beyond that, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is also simply an across-the-board incremental upgrade from its previous iteration, which is why it makes the Geek Culture Awards list for best tech in 2021.

Honourable Mentions: Samsung Galaxy Flip 3, ASUS ROG 5, Huawei P50 Pro

BEST SMARTPHONE CAMERA (Gold):
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra boasts four rear cameras: 108MP wide angle at f/2.8, 12MP ultra wide camera at f/2.2, 10MP telephoto at f/2.4 and 10MP telephoto at f/4.9. As for the front, users can take selfies with the main 40MP selfie camera at f/2.2. It also features a sharper 100x zoom compared to the S20 Ultra. This is one camera system that is highly versatile and able to take great shots in almost any situation. It is a mobile photography powerhouse.

BEST SMARTPHONE CAMERA (Silver):
Huawei P50 Pro

Photography has always been the lynchpin of Huawei’s phones, which is no surprise given the company’s collaboration with Leica. The camera matrix is dubbed the true-form dual-matrix camera, it boasts a 50MP true-chroma colour camera, a 40MP true-chroma mono camera, a 13MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 64MP telephoto camera, with up to 100x zoom range. There is a wide variety of modes to cater to any photo-taking enthusiast, allowing users to be more creative and explorative with the way they approach mobile photography.

Honourable Mentions: Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max, ASUS ROG 5, Oppo Reno5 Pro 5G

BEST PRODUCTIVITY (Gold):
Apple MacBook Pro M1 Max

The Apple MacBook Pro M1 Max is a beast of a laptop powered by the company’s latest M1 Pro or M1 Max processor. Everything has been improved upon compared to its predecessor. A sharper display, a new keyboard, more ports, and of course, removing the Touch Bar and going back to basics with proper keys.

With up to a 10-Core CPU, 32-Core GPU, 64GB of Unified Memory and a 2TB solid-state drive, this machine is a performer right out of the box, capable of running multiple programs concurrently, and able to handle the most intensive of content, it was a no-brainer to be the winner in the Geek Culture Awards for best tech in 2021.

BEST PRODUCTIVITY (Silver):
ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED

At 1.4kg of weight and 16.9mm of thickness, the Zenbook 14X OLED is light and easy to carry around. The scene-stealer comes in the form of its 14-inch OLED touchscreen and by combining a WQXGA+ resolution (2880 x 1800 pixels) with an aspect ratio of 16:10, makes viewing entertainment a highly-enjoyable and delightful affair. Unlike most of its peers on the market, the Zenbook 14X doesn’t come with just one display in tow. ASUS’ proprietary ScreenPad 2.0 makes an appearance here, doubling up as either a regular trackpad or a secondary screen that doesn’t just look cool, it’s also very useful.

Honourable Mentions: ASUS Zenbook Pro 15, Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Pro, Apple iMac (2021)

BEST GAMING (Gold):
Aftershock Apex 15X

Gaming laptops have come a long way. Where they were once lacking the horsepower and efficiency of desktop setups, they have since caught up and the smaller form factor can now pack a punch, with their portable nature bringing added appeal to gamers. The Aftershock Apex 15X has embraced and improved upon the mix of performance and mobility, sporting an upgrade to the RTX 3070 GPU and the new Intel 11th Gen 11800H processors.

From its pretty, fluid visuals to beastly performance, there’s very little to complain about the laptop. This is a laptop for both gaming enthusiasts and content creators, and sets a high benchmark for future models looking to explore the potential and capabilities of high-spec configurations.

BEST GAMING (Silver):
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15, in more ways than one, is one beauty of a powerhorse that ticks all the checkboxes for a desktop replacement laptop. It has plenty of quality picks that are well worth the investment, from the near-impeccable gaming performance to the impressive, gorgeous visual prowess, despite missing out on some practical features. It’s hardly the sveltest RTX 3080 laptop on the market, but more than makes up for the lack of portability in raw, beastly power – and for some, that’s all that really matters.

Honourable Mentions: Lenovo Legion 7 (2021), Aftershock Trixel Custom PC, Aftershock Horizon Small Form Factor Gaming PC

BEST AUDIO (Gold):
Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2 Gaming Soundbar

The Katana V2 blasts your tracks on with such clarity, it is able to reproduce natural and realistic sounds with the Dolby Audio decoder which serves up cinematic entertainment experiences at your desk or living room. Not only is Creative’s newest Katana pretty to look at with its now reactive RGB lights and functions, but it also cuts deep into the finer details with SXFI BATTLE Mode and Scout Mode. These modes place emphasis on enemy footsteps, reloads, firearms and the directionality of your foes’ movements.

This soundbar is certainly a welcoming addition to the Creative family. Its loud and crisp audio makes it perfect for every situation from hardcore gaming to enduring long conference calls. With its sleek design and solid build quality, it saves space without compromising on the quality of sound. Taking its rightful place at the Geek Culture Awards, the Katana V2 can slice up anything you throw at it and deserves a spot as one of the best tech entries in 2021.

BEST AUDIO (Silver):
Blue Yeti X Microphone (Logitech)

From its elegant and polished design to its superb sound quality and intuitive customization with Blue Voice Technology, Blue has really outdone themselves for a microphone suited for almost everything with the Yeti X.

With its state-of-the-art sound, four versatile pickup patterns, illuminated multi-function smart knob and a slew of functions with the G Hub app, the Yeti X allows precise control over one’s audio. From content creators to musicians and gamers, the Yeti X has taken what a standard typical desktop experience would be to a broadcast studio setting.

Honourable Mentions: Apple AirPods (3rd Gen), Sonos Roam, Sony WF-1000XM4 Wireless Earbuds

BEST LIFESTYLE (Gold):
Omnidesk Ichi Collection Kawa Standing Desk

As far as tables go, the Omnidesk Ichi Collection Kawa Standing Desk manages to seamlessly blend style and substance into one solid, reliable package. The most eyecatching thing here is the teak wood tabletop with an epoxy resin strip that runs the middle. Omnidesk has worked hard to ensure that its craftmanship corresponds well to the quality of wood they’ve used. The resin and wood top are completely melded together and the company has sanded down the whole surface so there’s little chance of feeling any ridges when running your fingers over the surface.

Each table in this collection is unique, and is definitely for those who enjoy the finer things in life.

BEST LIFESTYLE (Silver):
igloohome Push-Pull Mortise Smart Lock

Nothing beats having the ease of simply pushing and pulling a door without fumbling around for keys to enter one’s home. The igloohome Push-Pull Mortise Smart Lock rids the door of the usual knob, handle, and even keys makes entering and leaving a truly effortless gesture for anyone living in the home.

With a range of options from fingerprints to key fobs to an app catering to one’s preferred method for unlocking a door, it optimises this simple yet crucial everyday act. Security is also paramount, and this smart lock uses only Bluetooth and thus won’t be susceptible to Wi-Fi hacking or instability, which gives the user greater peace of mind. It is easy to see why the Mortise is on the list of best in tech for 2021 as part of the Geek Culture Awards.

Honourable Mentions: 22seven Design Orion Modular Backpack, BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light, Apple Watch Series 7

BEST ACCESSORY (Gold):
LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier (Gen 2)

Let’s face it, facial masks are an integral part of our daily lives now. What started as a mild pandemic irritation has become something we have all grown used to. With a comfortable fit and clean, understated design, this is one accessory that truly shines over a long period of use.

BEST ACCESSORY (Silver):
Razer DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed

The Razer DeathAdder V2 X Hyperspeed leaves almost nothing more to be desired as an unassuming, robust workhorse boasting low latency, strong battery life, and iconic ergonomic design. While it doesn’t sport Razer’s iconic RGB Chroma lights, its modest presentation comes off as classy because of that. This is a mouse that makes it hard to go back to wired mice.

Honourable Mentions: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Xbox Controller, Dyson Omni Glide, Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split Keyboard

MOST INNOVATIVE (Gold):
Secretlab (TITAN Evo 2022 Chair + MAGNUS Metal Desk)

Secretlab expands beyond their range of signature gaming chairs with the MAGNUS Metal Desk, which comes with magnetic features that help to de-clutter wires and cables. Its all-black design also makes for a stylish mainstay in any setup.

Naturally, the company’s latest gaming chair also lives up to the legacy of superb Secretlab gaming chairs. The Titan Evo 2022 fuses the best parts of the company’s previous two models, the Omega and Titan. It is testament to the company’s drive to reach for the stars by combining the best of its predecessors to exude a familiar yet freshly-premium appeal.

MOST INNOVATIVE (Silver):
Creative (SXFI Carrier Soundbar + Sound Blaster Katana V2)

Immersion is undoubtedly a core element of the movie-watching and gaming experience, and Creative has zoomed in on the audio with their soundbars in 2021. The soundbars are able to offer superlative sound while being much more compact than a bulky surround sound setup.

Not only do they save space, they also fit right into any elegantly decorated room and don’t look at all out of place. A good soundbar has effectivelty replaced the traditional bulk setups, and Creative has proved that convincingly.

Honourable Mentions: igloohome, Apple, Samsung

BEST SMART HOME (Gold):
Linksys MX4200 WiFi 6 Mesh Router

Many of our entertainment and productivity needs must be anchored by a strong wireless foundation of unfettered Internet access. The Linksys MX4200 WiFi 6 Mesh Router combines the best features of mesh networking, with WiFi 6 network support, to handle the most intensive load on any home network.

Why Wi-Fi 6? It’s the latest standard in wireless networking technology that supports more devices and bandwidth, so that network crawl that many of us have experienced before won’t become an issue. Simply put, it is faster and more reliable internet. For urbanites, what more can we ask for, and the Geek Culture Awards are happy to recognise this product as one of the best in tech in 2021.

BEST SMART HOME (Silver):
Synology Disk Station DS1621+

Having an intelligent storage device is often one of those things that an office requires, to function properly or at least efficiently, especially in this day and age of remote working. A Network Attached Storage (NAS) will easily become essential and helps smooth out a lot of file sharing and collaborative work even across long distances.

A NAS is a network attached external hard drive which can store all your files, whether they’re documents, photos, artworks, or videos, by connecting devices via a network connection. It is like Dropbox and Google Drive, except a NAS is much more secure. Not only that, it also backs up the computer automatically and even lets people stream videos without needing to copy them across devices. Having a NAS also sets one up in the future for storage upgrades. This is a quiet, less visible, but critical device.

Honourable Mentions: igloohome Rim Lock, TP-Link Deco X68 Mesh WiFi 6 System, TP-Link Archer AX72 Wi-Fi 6 Router

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (Gold)
Apple MacBook Pro M1 Max

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (Silver)
ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED

Head over to Geek Culture Awards 2022: The Best Of Entertainment to find out the best movies, shows and games for the year 2021!

Brandon Toh

Brandon shapeshifts between being a nerd and a geek like Mystique, but with fewer options. He reads an unhealthy amount of comics and manga, while playing a healthy amount of board games and video games.

The post Geek Culture Awards 2022: The Best Of Tech appeared first on Geek Culture.

Whilst 2020 saw the death of entertainment, 2021 saw a slow revival., capped by a year-end bang that debuted the best movies and shows of the year. Despite having several movies pushed to streaming and delays to some highly anticipated video games, 2021 still managed to pull through with some major movie, series and game releases that excited fans. For all the good, it is only fair that we recognise them in the Geek Culture Awards 2022!

Whilst movie-going may still be a thing in the past for some folks, we had the privilege of catching some of the best action and drama on the big screens, as well as getting our hands on the newest games to play after a long hard day.

Here’s to a better 2022 and hey, thank you to our winners for keeping us entertained.

BEST MOVIE (Gold):
Spider-Man: No Way Home

Perhaps it comes as no surprise that the web-slinger’s movie starring Tom Holland snagged the best movie of the year. After all, the movie spun a record-breaking web in its box office debut. Spider-Man: No Way Home ties in 20 years of Spider-Man films and sees Peter Parker discover what it truly means to be Spider-Man after the events of Spider-Man: Far From Home.

BEST MOVIE (Silver):
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

We would love to see more of Simu Liu as the rings-wielding hero. With a sequel in tow, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings sees the martial-arts master Shang-Chi confront the past he thought he left behind when he’s drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization. In December, the movie became the top trending movie in Singapore for the year, and is easily one of the best movies for entertainment in the year.

Oh, and Tony Leung.

Honorable Mentions: Cruella, Drive My Car, Ghostbusters: Afterlife

BEST STREAMING MOVIE:
Zack Snyder’s Justice League

Fans have been begging for a #SnyderCut for years, and boy were they not disappointed. Snyder’s version looks good on paper, looks good on screen, and shows fan what could have been. We’d go so far to say that it’s the superior version to what the original 2017 film was, and that’s why it is deserving of recognition in the Geek Culture Awards.

Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman’s selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists newfound ally Diana Prince to face an even greater threat. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to recruit a team made up of Aquaman, Cyborg and the Flash to stand against a newly awakened enemy.

Honorable Mentions: Swan Song, Luca, Army of the Dead

BEST STREAMING SERIES:
WandaVision

Released in the earlier part of the year, Marvel Studios’ first ever series WandaVision has had us under a spell for the whole of 2021. The series follows Wanda Maximoff post Avengers: Endgame and sees how the hero dealt with loss and grief. What first starts off as an idylic suburban dream, turns into a nightmare as nothing is as it seems.

Although star Elizabeth Olsen claims that there won’t be a second season to this series, fans will be able to catch her in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Honorable Mentions: The Witcher, Dota: Dragon’s Blood, What If…?

BEST GAME:
Returnal

Returnal is a third-person shooter roguelike video game developed by Housemarque and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. The game follows Selene, an Astra scout who lands on the planet Atropos in search of the mysterious ‘White Shadow’ signal and finds herself trapped in a time loop.

A truly AAA sci-fi roguelike masterpiece full of intense moments and inviting mysteries, Returnal continually reminds us of why we love Housemarque so much in the first place, and why it deserves a Geek Culture Award for the entertainment it provided in 2021.

Honorable Mentions: Yakuza: Like A Dragon, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Tales of Arise

BEST INDIE GAME:
It Takes Two

After telling their daughter Rose that they are divorcing, Rose takes her hand-made dolls, which look like her parents, into the family shed, and tries to repair their relationship by play-acting. In a magical twist, the parents find themselves trapped inside the dolls’ bodies, and must confront their shortcomings in order to save their family.

It Takes Two is a masterclass of breathtaking gameplay ideas meshed with flawless execution. The entire 10-hour journey is astoundingly entertaining, paced perfectly, and just brimming with creative energy.

Honorable Mentions: Life is Strange: True Colours, Tails of Iron, Lost in Random

Head over to Geek Culture Awards 2022: The Best Of Tech to find out the tech products for the year 2021!

A'bidah Zaid

Don’t judge a book by its cover, for behind all this makeup, is a geek just like you. To simply put it, superheroes, Star Wars, Harry Potter and all things gore and creepy makes this girly girl swoon.

The post Geek Culture Awards 2022: The Best Of Entertainment appeared first on Geek Culture.