14 must-follow Mixer streams for gamers

Mixer is Microsoft's video streaming service, giving access to thousands of hours of live entertainment, generated by users across game consoles, PCs, and now mobile phones.

Mixer's signature features include native streaming support from Xbox and Windows 10 PCs, as well as industry-leading low latency between streamer and viewer for more engaging chat experiences, and also an interactive SDK, allowing game developers to allow viewers to control streamer's games directly.

We have our own channel on Mixer, right here, which features game broadcasts from the Windows Central team, and our official live podcast with our own Exec Editor Daniel Rubino and our Windows guru Senior Editor Zac Bowden.

If you're getting started with Mixer for the first time and don't know who to follow, consider taking a look at some of our favorite channels below, and as always, suggest your own in the comments!

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Microsoft has killed its Groove Music streaming service

The day has finally come – Microsoft has retired its Groove Music streaming service across all platforms.

Back in October of last year, Microsoft announced it was winding down support for its "Groove Music Pass", and all features related to streaming and purchasing content via the Groove Music app. Since its formal debut in 2015, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft's music streaming service failed to gain traction among strong competition. This eventually led to Microsoft scheduling a shut-down of the service for December 31, 2017.

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How to use Xbox One and Nintendo Switch cross-play

Cross-play is becoming common on Xbox One and Nintendo Switch – here's what you need to know.

Cross-platform multiplayer is one of the latest features on the rise across new releases, with a growing list of titles offering multiplayer between platforms. Allowing players to band together regardless of their console, "cross-play" blurs the lines between ecosystems, making it easier than ever to play with friends.

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This week's Deals with Gold feature Diablo III and Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3

Every week Microsoft and certain publishers discount numerous games for Xbox Live users.

Some deals are available only to Xbox Live Gold members and others are available to anyone who utilizes the service through a Spotlight sale. A wide variety of titles, ranging from small experiences to massive blockbusters, are available for substantially less. This week, prominent games like Diablo III and Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3 are on sale. Here's a look at what's on sale this week.

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Everything we know about Rainbow Six Siege Operation Chimera: New operators, zombies, and more

Rainbow Six Siege is set to receive a cooperative zombies mode in early 2018, with the release of "Operation Chimera." Here's what we know so far.

Rainbow Six Siege has grown to be one of Ubisoft's biggest successes of the generation, delivering a shooter experience that while competitive, delivers unrivaled tension and atmosphere. Despite its rocky beginnings in 2015, the game has grown to be one of the biggest titles of today – now entering its third year of post-launch content.

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Chime in: Do you miss the 'simple' days of gaming?

Games might be better than ever, but do you miss the simpler days of gaming?

Video games have evolved a lot over recent decades, growing from niche beginnings to one of the biggest industries in entertainment. With growth not only for the industry but the technology behind it, games are now more advanced than ever. But do you ever look back and miss the "simpler" days?

While games are shifting in scale and potential, many have lost their simplicity. Back in the day, you could buy a game, insert the disc and jump straight into the full experience. Today, between installation times, updates and downloadable content, there's a lot more to consider when choosing the best games for you.

A similar discussion recently surfaced on the Windows Central forums, when one of our older members, PAC757, shared his thoughts on the current state of console gaming.

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Best Portable Mouse for Windows PCs

• Best Overall
• Best Gestures
• Best Comfort
• Best Budget
• Best Wired

Best Overall

Razer Atheris

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Sporting dual 2.4GHz and Bluetooth LE connectivity, the Atheris takes portability to a whole new level. With up to 350 hours of use on a pair of AA batteries, the Atheris ($49.99) is great for those who need a companion pointer while on the go. Handy specs include adjustable 7,200 DPI for enhanced precision (depending on how you prefer to have the mouse configured).

It's also an ambidextrous mouse, meaning this is one portable pointer that can be used by both right- and left-handed notebook owners.

Bottom line: It'sc heaper than Razer's Orochi mouse, and the Atheris focuses more on connectivity, which is important for any frequent traveler.

One more thing: This mouse sports Bluetooth and a dongle for optional 2.4GHz wireless.

Why the Razer Atheris is the best portable mouse

Razer makes great mice for gaming. The company also makes solid mice for travelers.

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