Check out Gears of War 4 and you could win a $100 gift card!

Gears of War 4 is releasing in the first half of October and will feature a fully co-operative campaign following JD Fenix and his squad. Gears of War 4 also sees the return of PvP multiplayer, which is gearing up to be even more brutal than previous installments. For those of us who enjoy co-operative PvE however, The Coalition has revived Horde mode once again for Gears of War 4, and it looks like it could be better than ever.

Gears of War 4 is among the first batch of Play Anywhere titles. Microsoft announced the Play Anywhere program at E3 to show their commitment to gaming mobility. Whether you're on a Windows 10 PC or an Xbox One, purchasing the digital version of Gears of War 4 will net you a copy for both the Windows 10 PC Store and Xbox One. Super cool!

THE RULES There are three ways to enter using the widget below, and you can do each one daily! Maximize your chances of winning by coming back every day for three more entries, and a total of 15 entries if you complete all three each day of the contest! Please note that if you are using the Windows Central app, you will need to click the button at the bottom of the page to access the widget.

Due to sponsor restrictions and limitations on the gift cards, this giveaway is only open to residents of the US. The giveaway ends on September 30th, so you just have this week to get entered! We'll announce the winners right here in the widget shortly after the closing date.

That's it! Good luck, everyone!

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dlxAAp
via IFTTT

The best Acer laptops you can buy

If you're looking for a new laptop from Acer, then look no further as we round up the best it has to offer.

Acer has been making laptops for a long time, and is a brand that virtually anyone looking for a new one will have heard of. And, like many other manufacturers, Acer covers a wide range of prices and needs with its notebook PCs.

So, to try and help you make your decision on what to buy, here we round up the very best of the bunch. Let's take a look!

Note: Acer has announced new laptops across their entire product line, but they aren't yet available. When they are, we'll update this article to reflect what will almost certainly be the new best Acer laptops you can buy.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/1QfrwjX
via IFTTT

Microsoft, Minecraft, and Libations – Live Stream and Gears of War 4 Elite Controller Giveaway!

Tonight we're kicking off our fifth episode of Microsoft, Minecraft, and Libations, our new show where we sit back, talk about Microsoft while playing Minecraft, and, well, having a few drinks! The live stream should kick off at 6 PM ET (3 PM PT, 11 PM GMT). You can find the start time based on your location and time zone in our event announcer.

If you missed our earlier announcement for the full context you can find that here to learn more about the format and plans.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2c0xYnk
via IFTTT

Some Windows 10 PC users can't install the 14393.222 cumulative update

A number of Windows 10 PC users in the Release Preview and Production update rings are reporting they are unable to install the latest 14393.222 cumulative update for the OS.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dtOojQ
via IFTTT

BioShock: The Collection review: An exemplary return to the unforgiving depths

Aside from some minor technical flaws, BioShock: The Collection proves just how timeless an iconic franchise can be.

It's been over three years since the last BioShock game was released. In that time, fans have heard next to nothing about where the series is headed. After an internal restructuring left the game's original developer with only fifteen employees, the future of 2K's once-flagship series has remained ambiguous. Apart from an unfavorable mobile port, BioShock: The Collection is the first title to appear after Irrational Games severed ties with the franchise.

BioShock: The Collection brings together the three core BioShock installments into a single package, marking the first time any have been available on a current-generation console. Each of these games has seen differing levels of graphical enhancements, ranging from slight performance increases to complete texture overhauls. But with all these changes, have we received the definitive BioShock experience?

Gameplay mechanics have been left untouched during the porting process

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cRz2s5
via IFTTT

WWE 2K17: The full and complete roster list for Xbox One

WWE 2K17 is the latest wrestling game from 2K Sports and Yuke's, and here's the full roster!

2K17 will features over 130 current and classic wrestlers, including the debut of AJ Styles, Becky Lynch, and others. This roster with all DLC wrestlers will help you prepare for WWE 2K17 when it launches on October 11th.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dxEMde
via IFTTT

Snag 12 months of EA Access for just $25

If you're looking for a reason to check out EA Access, the game publisher's subscription service for the Xbox One, then Newegg has a deal worth checking out.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2ddz650
via IFTTT

Starz revamps its Xbox One app with new design and more

The Starz network has relaunched its Xbox One app with a new design that also combines all the content from its other two movie networks, Encore and Movieplex.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dBYsfA
via IFTTT

New Farming Simulator 17 trailer rides the rails with its drivable trains

Developer Giants Software and publisher Focus Home Interactive have released the newest trailer for the upcoming Farming Simulator 17 for the PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4. This gameplay glimpse takes a look at one of the game's new features: drivable trains.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cHrip5
via IFTTT

Beginner's guide to maps in Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta

How do I use maps in Minecraft?

While they initially appear simple, making and using maps in Minecraft requires a bit of know-how so you don't waste valuable resources or get lost somewhere far from home.

• How to make maps
• How to initialize maps
• How to keep maps in frames
• How to create a seamless mosaic of maps
• Maps in the Nether

How to make maps

Depending on the resources you have in your inventory, you can make a few different types of maps. Start with an empty map, get the hang of navigating, then start cloning and make a map room for visitors to your realm!

Empty map

An initialized empty map kept in your inventory will automatically fill in as you explore the Overworld.

Empty map with indicator

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cRlUmO
via IFTTT

Teslagrad 2D platformer game makes its Windows Store debut for $10

Teslagrad, the acclaimed 2D platformer game, has been released in the Windows Store for Windows 10 PCs. The game, from developer Rain, is available for $9.99.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2d1QyaH
via IFTTT

Snag this Xbox One Quantum Break console bundle with four free games for just $229

Microsoft has lowered the price of its Xbox One Quantum Break console bundle down to $229. It includes four free games, but the offer to get the fourth game will end after Saturday, October 1.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dxqkCa
via IFTTT

Best Sports Games for Xbox One

Looking for a great, gun-free, sports-focused title on Xbox One? You're in the right place.

Not everyone wants to play games filled with wall-to-wall combat and swearing. Sports titles are some of the most popular games out there, though they're often overlooked when the spotlight's are shining on heart-pounding action games like Call of Duty or Battlefield.

In any case, if you're a sports nut with an Xbox One, then there's plenty to get stuck into. Here are the best sports games for your favorite console:

FIFA 17

EA's FIFA is always one of the biggest selling video games every single year. It's not always been the best, but the '17 update is definitely the series' finest hour entry in several years. Key areas of gameplay have been given an overhaul, such as corners and free kicks, and the whole game is now powered by the Frostbite engine. If you've heard that somewhere before, Frostbite is what powers Battlefield, so it's got some serious credentials.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dhrQUY
via IFTTT

Pre-registration begins for Microsoft Ignite 2017 in Orlando, Florida

Microsoft has announced that its Ignite conference for IT professionals will be held in 2017 in Orlando, Flordia from September 24-29. Pre-registration has already started for the event.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2ddo1nP
via IFTTT

How to get back into Destiny with the Rise of Iron expansion

Destiny is approachable, even if you haven't played since before The Taken King was released.

Destiny's second expansion, Rise of Iron was just released and it's a ton of fun whether you've been playing since day one, or you're just getting started. There is a third category of Destiny players: the lapsed, the folks who played the original game and then wandered away before the first expansion was released.

So you're hearing how great the new expansion is and you want to get back into Destiny? Here's what you need to know.

Returning is easy

Bungie has made it really easy to return to the game, even if you've been gone for two years. The main aspects of Destiny remain unchanged; basically... shoot everything. If you need a refresher before you jump into the new campaign, you can continue where you left off when you stopped playing.

Granted, doing so means you'll mow through the waves of baddies with ridiculous ease, but it means that you can remember where all of your controls are. This might not be necessary, but it is handy in a pinch.

Tokens are your friend

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2ddkWV3
via IFTTT

Disko Windows 10 storage management app is free through October 1

Disko, a Windows 10 PC and Mobile storage management app, is currently free through Saturday, October 1. The regular price of the app is $9.99.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cH3bHb
via IFTTT

Fitbit app for Windows 10 adds support for Microsoft HoloLens

The official Fitbit app for Windows 10 has received a new update that adds support for the Microsoft HoloLens headset. Now, users of the company's fitness wearable can check out their goals and more directly from the headset.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dcWpvM
via IFTTT

Explore the complex Clockwork Mansion in Dishonored 2's latest gameplay trailer

A new trailer has arrived for the upcoming Dishonored 2, giving us just over 7 minutes of new gameplay footage to chew on.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cGqxl0
via IFTTT

Gears of War 4 Windows 10 pre-loading begins, but you should update to build 14393.222 first

Windows 10 PC gamers who have pre-ordered Gears of War 4 from the Windows Store can now start pre-loading the sci-fi shooter on their hard drives ahead of the game's official launch. However, those gamers should update their Windows 10 version to the current 14393.222 cumulative build first.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2djcWxZ
via IFTTT

Game Troopers launches Pebble for Windows Phone and Windows 10 Mobile

Publisher Game Troopers has launched Pebble, its latest free-to-play game for Windows Phone and Windows 10 Mobile.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dFhgqV
via IFTTT

Today is the deadline for age ratings to be added to current Windows Store apps

Today, September 30, is the deadline that Microsoft has announced for age ratings to be included in all apps that are published in the Windows Store. Any app that does not have an approved age rating risks being removed from the store after today.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dKnW9O
via IFTTT

Race forever into deep space with Blue Comet on Windows 10 Mobile

Endless runner games are fantastic ways to help you pass the time and Blue Comet hopes to catch your eye with its space racing theme. Available for Windows 10 Mobile, Blue Comet has you piloting a spaceship through a deep space obstacle course.

Graphics are decent with plenty of color and detail. Gameplay begins slowly and steadily quickens the longer you survive. The only thing holding the game back from being a fun time waster is a little quirkiness with the game controls.

This Windows 10 Mobile game is currently priced at $0.99 in the Windows Store. Blue Comet has lots of potential, but with a little fine-tuning it could be an entertaining game when you need help passing the time.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2d1dAi6
via IFTTT

Maps for Windows 10 updated for production ring with dark theme and traffic hub

Microsoft has updated its Maps app for Windows 10 on PC and Mobile for people in the production (non-Insiders) ring. It adds the dark theme and traffic hub features that were previously included in updates for Fast ring Insiders.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cGbiIZ
via IFTTT

Two more Gears of War 4 Xbox One S bundles revealed, in 500GB 'deep blue' and 1TB verisons

Microsoft has announced two more Xbox One S bundles with free copies of its upcoming sci-fi shooter Gears of War 4. One is the regular 1TB white console for $349, and the other is a 500GB "deep blue" color version for $299.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2d19feE
via IFTTT

Digital Offers: Become an A+ certified IT professional for $60

The Information Technology job market has never been more competitive. The number of operating systems, devices, and types of networks that you need to know how to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain can be a little daunting. A great place to start your training is by acquiring an official Computing Technology Industry Association certification.

The CompTIA certification is the gold standard of training in the IT world; however, it's time consuming and expensive to even take the test, let alone prepare for it. So what do you do? Relax. Windows Central is here to help.

The CompTIA Core & Cisco CCNA Bundle is a collection of four courses that will give you the experience and knowledge you need to become a CompTIA certified technician.

Over the course of three years, you have unlimited access to lessons and test that will grant you CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications, meaning you have the proper education to work as a Computer Technician and Network Technician.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dq6xD6
via IFTTT

HTC Viveport online VR app store launches worldwide

HTC has launched its Viveport online VR app store to the rest of the world, after previously making it available only in China. It gives owners of the HTC Vive virtual reality headset another way to browse and purchase apps and games. Before today, the only other place for Vive owners to get apps was via Valve's Steam store.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dwE0gv
via IFTTT

Don't miss this 500GB Xbox One S bundle with four free games!

Right now you can pick up the 500GB Minecraft Favorites Xbox One S bundle with four extra games for just $299. That's right, you can get a new 500GB Xbox One S console, the full Minecraft game, the Builders and Favorites pack, along with four additional games. Those titles are NBA 2K15, Titanfall, Pro Evolution Soccer 2015, Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag and Assassin's Creed Unity, which is a value of around $80 that comes at no additional cost.

This is a limited time offer, so if you are interested you'll want to act quickly! All you have to do is add the bundle linked below and the free gifts will automatically be added to your cart.

See at Newegg

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dwB57Q
via IFTTT

Is it worth paying out for more expensive mice and keyboards?

Should you go for affordable mice and keyboards, or invest some funds and go all out with top of the range solutions? It's the question that crosses most minds when looking at new mice and keyboards to go with a shiny new desktop PC.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dEQYVP
via IFTTT

How to change Lock screen timeout before display turn off on Windows 10

If you like to see the images and apps status on the Lock screen, but the display goes black in about a minute, then use this guide to change the Lock screen timeout setting on Windows 10.

On Windows 10, similar to Windows 8.1, the operating system features a Lock screen before you sign in to your account. The new experience showcases date and time, quick status for apps you choose, and more importantly a background image, which typically, users opt to display personal pictures or those from Windows Spotlight.

While the Lock screen provides useful information and beautiful pictures, you probably noticed that your computer's display turns off after 60 seconds when you lock your Windows 10 account. This happens even if you change the power options to never turn off the monitor or never put the computer to sleep.

The reason is that by design, the operating system includes a function that detects when the device is locked and waits for 60 seconds. After the time expires, the computer screen goes black. This is a function, which for a mysterious reason, users can't customize in Control Panel or the Settings app. However, you can modify the Registry to enable a new option in the power settings to change the time to anything you want.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dwnqO5
via IFTTT

Grab this USB-C desktop charging dock for just $16.95!

Tired of constantly fumbling around with your USB-C cable to get your phone charged? If so, Seidio's desktop charging cradle is a great option to consider. It gives you an easy place to rest your phone when you want to charge or sync it without worrying about if the cable is where you think it was. Right now you can pick one up for just $16.95.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dwqEMQ
via IFTTT

Grab a great deal on Sandisk's 64GB microSD at Amazon UK!

Looking for a good deal on a new microSD card? Head on over to Amazon UK where the deal of the day is currently Sandisk's Extreme 64GB class 10 card, reduced to just £17.99!

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2cQdGLv
via IFTTT

Logitech's C922 Pro Stream Webcam is made for serious video streamers

Logitech has announced its C922 Pro Stream Webcam, designed as a successor to its popular C920 webcam. It includes a background replacement feature and can stream or record video at 60fps at 720p or 30fps at 1080p.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows Phone http://ift.tt/2dpp2HO
via IFTTT