PlayStation 5 Slim Redesign Sparks Praise for Matte Finish but Backlash Over Storage Cut
PlayStation's Latest Console Redesign Draws Mixed Reactions from Gamers
Sony's newly updated PlayStation 5 Slim has started hitting store shelves in Europe, and it's already sparking heated debates online. While some fans are celebrating one particular design change, others are voicing frustration over what they see as a step backwards in hardware.
A Leak That Turned Out to Be True
Earlier this month, French outlet Dealabs Magazine leaked details of an updated PS5 Slim model. At first, many players dismissed the information, worried that the rumored specifications suggested some disappointing compromises. But those leaks proved accurate: the refreshed PS5 Slim is now available in select regions, and tech enthusiasts have begun tearing it apart—literally.
Popular YouTuber Austin Evans , known for his hardware teardowns, managed to get his hands on the revised unit and posted a detailed breakdown. One change in particular caught the community's attention, and surprisingly, it's not about performance—it's about aesthetics.
Matte Finish Wins Fans Over
The original PS5 design featured glossy side panels, a choice that many gamers disliked because of its tendency to attract fingerprints, scratches, and scuff marks. The new Slim version replaces that shiny plastic with a matte finish , and gamers online are praising Sony for finally addressing the issue.
On X (formerly Twitter), players expressed their excitement:
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"This should've been the standard from day one. Glossy panels look cheap on any device," wrote one user.
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Another added, "I'm not even kidding, I might buy a PS5 just for this change. Glossy plastic is a nightmare—it scratches if you breathe on it."
For design-conscious gamers, the update feels like a small but meaningful improvement. But as is often the case, the positive comes with a negative.
Storage Capacity Takes a Hit
The more controversial change lies beneath the hood. According to tech outlet VGC , the new Slim now ships with an 825GB SSD , compared to the 1TB storage capacity found in the earlier PS5 Slim model. For many, this reduction feels like a downgrade in an era where blockbuster titles regularly exceed 100GB in size.
To make matters worse, Sony hasn't lowered the retail price. The console costs the same as before, meaning buyers are essentially paying the same amount for less storage.
Community Pushback
It didn't take long for the gaming community to react. On the r/gaming subreddit , frustration poured in almost instantly:
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"They DE-MADE the PS5," one commenter complained.
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Another added, "Oh great, shrinkflation has officially hit consoles."
This kind of backlash highlights a growing frustration in the gaming world, where companies are often seen as cutting costs without lowering prices.
Why Did Sony Make the Change?
While Sony has not given an official explanation, analysts suggest the move was financially motivated. By reducing the SSD size, manufacturing costs go down, allowing Sony to maintain profit margins without increasing the retail price.
This strategy may be linked to the ongoing global trade tensions, particularly tariffs imposed on electronics entering the United States. Instead of hiking the console's price—something that could harm sales—Sony likely chose to trim costs internally.
The Bigger Picture: Storage Demands in 2025
Even with cost-cutting in mind, an 825GB SSD raises practical concerns. Today's biggest releases demand enormous amounts of storage. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III , for instance, can exceed 200GB with updates. And with the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI on the horizon, some gamers joke that the PS5 Slim might not even be able to hold the game on its own.
Sure, players can expand storage with external drives or additional SSDs, but that requires extra spending—something that may leave new buyers feeling short-changed.
A Case of Priorities
The reaction to the new PS5 Slim highlights an interesting divide among gamers. For some, aesthetics and design are key. They appreciate the matte panels and sleeker look, especially since the PS5 has often been criticized as bulky and awkwardly shaped. For others, performance and storage capacity far outweigh cosmetic tweaks. For them, Sony's decision feels like prioritizing style over substance.
What It Means for Sony's Future
Sony is no stranger to hardware revisions. Previous PlayStation generations all received "slim" redesigns that aimed to cut production costs while offering a sleeker product. But in most cases, those revisions either maintained or improved specifications. This time, however, many players see the reduced SSD as a downgrade that doesn't match the premium price tag.
If history is any guide, the backlash may not significantly impact sales. The PlayStation brand remains incredibly strong, and demand for the PS5 continues to outstrip supply in many markets. Still, the mixed reception should serve as a reminder to Sony that gamers are paying attention—not just to graphics and gameplay, but also to the value they're getting in their hardware.
Final Thoughts
The new PS5 Slim proves that even small design tweaks can spark big reactions in the gaming world. While the matte finish has won praise, the cut in storage has left many disappointed, especially since prices remain unchanged. For now, buyers will need to decide what matters more: a sleeker look or more room for their growing game libraries.
One thing is certain—Sony's decisions around hardware design will continue to be closely watched as the next generation of gaming looms.
Resident Evil 7 Biohazard Full Gameplay Walkthrough | Complete Horror Experience
Step into the terrifying world of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard with this full gameplay walkthrough. This survival horror masterpiece delivers an intense first-person experience filled with suspense, puzzles, and shocking encounters. Watch as the story unfolds inside the eerie Baker family mansion, where every corner hides danger and every choice matters. Whether you're a fan of horror games or exploring this title for the first time, this walkthrough gives you the complete journey from start to finish.
Steam Releases 6 Free Games Worth Playing – From Horror to Wholesome
Steam Just Dropped 6 Free Games That Feel Too Good to Be Free
When it comes to gaming, the word free often raises eyebrows. Many players assume a free title must be shallow, low-quality, or just another microtransaction trap. But every so often, Steam surprises us with genuinely impressive experiences that don't cost a cent.
In fact, free games can sometimes feel more rewarding than their premium counterparts. You don't have to worry about spending money upfront, yet you still get a shot at discovering unique stories, quirky mechanics, and even hidden gems that could rival big-budget productions.
Recently, six new free-to-play titles have landed on Steam, and they're already generating buzz. From psychological horror to cozy storytelling, here's a closer look at each one — and why they deserve a spot in your library.
1. 50 Minutes 'Til Impact – A Retro-Futuristic Race Against Time
Developed by Atomic Baby Games, 50 Minutes 'Til Impact is an adventure set aboard a space train in a stylish retro-futuristic world. The clock is ticking: you have less than an hour to prevent catastrophe.
The gameplay combines exploration, puzzles, and light visual-novel elements, keeping players engaged as they uncover the story. Despite its short runtime — most players finish in one to two hours — it has earned a 100% positive rating so far.
One Steam reviewer summed it up well: "The story makes it absolutely worth the time." For those who enjoy narrative-driven experiences that don't overstay their welcome, this one is an easy recommendation.
2. License to Grill – Chaotic Cooking Combat
If you prefer something multiplayer and absurd, License to Grill might be your flavor. This third-person brawler lets up to eight players engage in frantic kitchen warfare. The objective? Cook your opponents before they cook you.
It's goofy, fast-paced, and ideal for party play. Reviewers are already throwing around words like "life changing" and even simply calling it "Peak." Sometimes, the most fun games don't need elaborate explanations — just friends, chaos, and laughter.
3. REDSHIFT – Psychological Horror in the Shadows
For players who crave suspense, REDSHIFT offers a chilling dive into psychological horror. Developed by Gravity Interactive, the story centers on a mysterious research facility known as Tower 7. Inside its dark corridors, you're not alone — something is hunting you.
Unlike many horror games, REDSHIFT avoids cheap jump scares, instead relying on atmosphere, tension, and narrative intrigue. Most players report finishing the game in about an hour, making it a short but intense ride.
As one self-proclaimed "cowardly" gamer put it: "The perfect amount of thrill without overdoing it."
4. With My Little Eye – A Wholesome Cat Hunt
After the tension of horror, you might want something lighthearted. Enter With My Little Eye , a hidden object game from indie studio Papa Koala. Your mission? Spot 50 cats cleverly tucked into a hand-drawn illustration.
It's short — around 20 minutes of playtime — but its charm lies in its simplicity. Players describe it as "super chill" and "sneaky fun." It's the kind of game you can relax with after a long day, proving that not every free title has to be intense or complicated.
5. Goodbye from Amabird – A Cozy Yet Bittersweet Story
This one's tough to categorize. Goodbye from Amabird blends elements of adventure, walking simulators, and even a touch of horror. At its core, though, it's a heartfelt narrative about an elderly woman trying to reconnect with her granddaughter while living through her quiet daily routine.
You'll bake, feed birds, and navigate small domestic rituals — until an unexpected guest arrives. That visitor seems to represent something far heavier: death itself.
The game lasts only about 20 minutes, but it leaves a lasting impression. Reviewers call it "a lovely and simple short story that resonates deeply." Others praise its voice acting, soothing music, and emotional depth.
One standout comment captures the mood perfectly: "In just 20 minutes, it made me feel more than many multi-million dollar games ever could."
6. Haus of Irondrous – Mystery in a Haunted Mansion
Finally, there's Haus of Irndrous , the only entry on this list without reviews yet. But its premise already feels promising.
Set in the eerie Afgarn Mansion, the game mixes action-adventure with horror. The official description warns: "Don't ask why it's empty. Nor why the lights flicker. If you hear voices, don't respond."
The setting channels an 80s aesthetic, blending nostalgia with dread. Whether it delivers on that promise remains to be seen, but its mystery alone makes it worth keeping an eye on.
Why You Should Pay Attention to Free Steam Games
The beauty of these releases is that they don't demand a single dollar from you, yet they often provide creativity and experimentation that big-budget titles can't risk. Some offer laughs, some chills, and some even bring moments of genuine emotional weight.
While not every free game on Steam is worth your time, these six clearly stand out. If you're hunting for something fresh to play this week, they're an easy, risk-free place to start.
5 Prime Video Action Series That Are Absolutely Flawless
Prime Video has quickly become a powerhouse in the world of streaming entertainment, and one of its biggest strengths is its catalog of action-packed television series. Whether it’s gritty superhero tales, post-apocalyptic adventures, or spy thrillers, the platform consistently delivers stories that balance spectacle with substance. What makes these shows stand out isn’t only their jaw-dropping fight sequences, but also the complex characters and layered storytelling that keep viewers invested long after the credits roll.
Unlike many traditional action shows of the past, today’s Prime originals push boundaries with graphic violence, bold themes, and unapologetic commentary on society. They don’t just rely on explosions or car chases—they combine adrenaline with emotional depth, making the genre more relevant than ever.
While Prime hosts a wide range of action titles, only a select few can be called truly flawless—shows that hit every note perfectly, leaving audiences with nothing to critique. Below are five standout series that represent the very best of Prime Video’s action lineup.
1. Invincible (2021–Present)
Prime Video has redefined the superhero genre with projects that lean darker and more self-aware than Marvel or DC fare, and Invincible is perhaps its boldest entry yet. Based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley, the animated show is unapologetically violent and doesn’t shy away from shocking imagery that would be impossible to replicate in live action.
At its core, Invincible is the story of Mark Grayson, a teenager learning to live in the shadow of his father, Omni-Man, who is revered as Earth’s mightiest protector. But Omni-Man is far from the flawless hero the world believes him to be, and Mark’s journey to step into his own identity as “Invincible” is as heartbreaking as it is thrilling.
What elevates the show beyond simple superhero spectacle is its emotional weight. The betrayals cut deep, the moral dilemmas are messy, and every victory feels earned. Over the seasons, new villains and morally gray allies keep complicating Mark’s choices, ensuring the series never stagnates. Invincible blends fast-paced, creative fight choreography with gut-wrenching drama, making it one of the best examples of animated storytelling for adults.
2. Gen V (2023–Present)
Spinning out of the phenomenon that is The Boys, Gen V proves that a spinoff can be just as gripping—if not more accessible—than its parent series. Set within the same universe of corrupt superheroes and corporate exploitation, Gen V narrows its focus to the lives of young supes training at Godolkin University, a place where ambition, hormones, and deadly powers collide.
The show introduces Marie Moreau, played by Jaz Sinclair, who quickly emerges as a standout character torn between personal struggles and the broader chaos of her world. While The Boys is known for its satirical jabs at politics and celebrity culture, Gen V adds another layer by addressing themes of adolescence, social pressure, and the impact of technology on a generation trying to find its place.
And yet, the series never skimps on the blood, guts, or gore—it proudly embraces the outrageous violence that defines The Boys. What makes it compelling, however, is that beneath the shocking imagery lies real emotional resonance. The friendships, betrayals, and struggles for identity feel authentic, ensuring audiences are invested in the characters, not just the carnage. As The Boys nears its final chapter, Gen V is perfectly positioned to carry the torch as Prime’s flagship live-action superhero saga.
3. Fallout (2024–Present)
In an era where video game adaptations are finally being taken seriously, Prime Video’s Fallout stands as a high point for the genre. Inspired by the legendary Bethesda game series, the show immerses audiences in a post-apocalyptic wasteland where survival is brutal, alliances are fragile, and violence lurks around every corner.
Ella Purnell leads the cast as Lucy, a bright-eyed vault dweller thrust into the unforgiving outside world. Alongside her, talents like Walton Goggins, Aaron Moten, and Kyle MacLachlan bring grit and nuance to an ensemble that captures the essence of the games while adding fresh narrative layers.
What makes Fallout work so well is its ability to mix tones—it’s equally grotesque, humorous, and action-heavy. The visual effects and production design perfectly capture the bizarre retro-futuristic aesthetic of the games, while the action sequences are as inventive as they are brutal. Whether it’s fending off mutated monsters or navigating tense standoffs with raiders, the show thrives on unpredictability.
With its first season ending on a cliffhanger and a second installment already in development, fans are eagerly anticipating what new horrors and adventures await. Fallout is proof that action television can be both imaginative and emotionally gripping, even when set in a radioactive wasteland.
4. Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2024–Present)
Espionage has always been fertile ground for action television, and Prime Video’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith offers a fresh spin on the spy thriller by weaving in romance and domestic drama. Starring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine, the series reimagines the premise of the 2005 film but builds something entirely new.
Here, the central couple is not only tasked with dangerous missions but must also maintain their cover as a married pair—blurring the line between fake intimacy and real connection. Each episode cleverly pairs explosive action sequences with deeply personal moments, forcing the characters to navigate love, mistrust, and betrayal against the backdrop of espionage.
The chemistry between Glover and Erskine anchors the show, making the action all the more impactful because the stakes feel personal. Though currently on hiatus, the first season delivers a complete narrative arc that balances thrills with heart. Even if the wait for future episodes stretches longer than fans would like, Mr. & Mrs. Smith has already proven itself to be one of the most creative action shows on streaming today.
5. Reacher (2022–Present)
Few action shows embrace the classic lone-wolf archetype as effectively as Reacher. Based on Lee Child’s best-selling novels, the series stars Alan Ritchson as Jack Reacher, a towering ex-military drifter who travels from town to town righting wrongs and dismantling criminal enterprises.
Ritchson’s portrayal has been hailed as the definitive on-screen Reacher, capturing both the intimidating physical presence and the quiet intelligence that make the character iconic. The show doesn’t shy away from big, bruising action sequences—Reacher takes down enemies with ruthless efficiency—but it also finds space to explore his vulnerabilities and principles.
What sets Reacher apart is its balance of pulp and polish. On one hand, it’s unapologetically a “dad show,” packed with brawls, shootouts, and tough-guy bravado. On the other, it’s genuinely well-crafted, with strong storytelling, sharp dialogue, and a self-awareness that keeps it from feeling dated. Fans keep coming back not just for the spectacle, but because each season feels like a complete, satisfying story.
Final Word
Prime Video has carved out a niche for itself by producing action series that go beyond cheap thrills. Shows like Invincible, Gen V, Fallout, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, and Reacher demonstrate that action television can be bloody, bold, and thought-provoking at the same time.
These aren’t just shows to binge for the fight scenes—they’re projects that stay with you because they blend violence with character, spectacle with heart, and entertainment with commentary. As the streaming wars heat up, Prime’s lineup proves it has the muscle and creativity to remain one of the leading players in the action genre.
PlayStation 6 First Game Revealed: Kojima's Physint
PlayStation 6's First Game Confirmed: Kojima Productions Unveils Physint
Hideo Kojima has once again managed to capture the gaming world's attention. At the recent Beyond The Strand showcase, held to mark the 10th anniversary of Kojima Productions, the legendary creator revealed what lies ahead for his studio. Alongside a slate of upcoming projects, Kojima confirmed the very first PlayStation 6 title: Physint .
The announcement immediately sent shockwaves through the industry. While Sony has yet to officially launch or detail the PS6 itself, Kojima made it clear that Physint is being built with next-generation hardware in mind. For fans, this is more than just another game reveal—it's a glimpse into the future of PlayStation gaming.
A Long-Awaited Kojima Project
Kojima initially teased Physint back in January 2024, vaguely describing it as a "next-generation action-espionage" experience. That short description was enough to fuel months of speculation. The phrase alone rekindled memories of Kojima's earlier work on Metal Gear Solid , arguably his most iconic franchise.
At the time, Kojima hinted that the project would combine the talents of both the film and video game industries, developed with "cutting-edge technology" and some of the most accomplished creative minds in entertainment. While he admitted that the title is still five to six years away, the anticipation has only continued to grow.
The Beyond The Strand showcase provided the first substantial update since that initial tease. Although the game remains in its early stages, Kojima gave fans a tantalizing look at what's to come—offering both technical demonstrations and a first promotional poster.
A Glimpse of PS6 Graphics
While no full gameplay footage was shared, Kojima presented facial animation tests created for Physint . The results were striking. The demo suggested that PS6 hardware will push realism to new heights, delivering character models so lifelike that distinguishing them from real footage may become increasingly difficult.
These early visuals highlight Kojima Productions' ambition to set a new industry benchmark. Although current PlayStation 5 titles already deliver impressive graphics, the next-gen showcase suggests a leap forward in detail, subtlety, and cinematic immersion.
The Poster Reveal
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) September 23, 2025
The studio also unveiled the game's first official poster. Featuring a male character holding a gun with towering skyscrapers in the background, the image bore the tagline: "Here Comes the Feeling."
The design quickly sparked discussion. The character's left side is practical, evoking the classic espionage hero archetype. However, his right side is covered by a one-sleeved trench coat, a detail that hints at futuristic or possibly dystopian elements in the narrative. While the poster leaves more questions than answers, it successfully sets the tone—dark, stylish, and mysterious.
Star-Studded Cast Announcement
No Kojima project would be complete without a Hollywood-inspired cast, and Physint is no exception. The director revealed the first three confirmed actors for the game:
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Charlee Fraser – The Australian actress and model recently appeared in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga .
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Don Lee (Ma Dong-seok) – Known globally for Train to Busan and Marvel's Eternals , Lee brings both presence and versatility to the project.
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Minami Hamabe – The Japanese actress, celebrated for her role in Godzilla Minus One , rounds out the initial cast list.
Kojima has built a reputation for blurring the line between film and video games, consistently enlisting high-profile actors to enhance the cinematic quality of his projects. With this cast announcement, Physint looks to continue that tradition.
Fans React with Excitement
Unsurprisingly, the reveal has already lit up social media. Enthusiasts flooded Twitter/X with reactions ranging from comparisons to Metal Gear Solid to predictions of entirely new mechanics.
"This has Snake written all over it ... and I love it," wrote one fan. Another observed, "It looks like a blend of MGS and Dishonored to me."
The general sentiment is clear: excitement is building, even if the game itself is still years away from release.
A Bigger Picture for Kojima Productions
It's worth noting that Physint was not the only announcement during the showcase. Kojima Productions also revealed:
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OD – Knock , an Xbox title.
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Death Stranding: Mosquito , an animated film expanding the Death Stranding universe.
These projects highlight Kojima's wide-ranging ambitions. Rather than sticking solely to traditional video game development, his studio is branching out across mediums and platforms.
What Physint Means for PlayStation 6
For PlayStation, the reveal of Physint is significant beyond just the name. It officially positions the PS6 as a future-ready console that will play host to ambitious, genre-defining titles. While Sony has not yet shared technical specifications or a release window for the system, the early glimpse of Physint strongly implies that developers are already preparing for the leap.
If Kojima Productions is any indication, the PS6 will not just be an incremental upgrade—it could represent a dramatic step forward in immersive, cinematic gaming.
The Road Ahead
Although the wait will be long, the reveal of Physint is already one of the most talked-about gaming stories of 2025. For Kojima, it's another chance to redefine what players expect from the action-espionage genre. For PlayStation fans, it's reassurance that the next console generation is shaping up to deliver unforgettable experiences.
Whether Physint ends up as a spiritual successor to Metal Gear Solid , or something entirely new, remains to be seen. What's certain is that Kojima's vision will once again push boundaries—and that the PlayStation 6 just secured its first major exclusive.
Backup Google Photos to External Drive | Step-by-Step Guide
How to backup your Google Photos to a portable drive — clear, step-by-step
Short intro: This guide explains several easy, dependable ways to move your Google Photos library onto a portable external drive (USB HDD/SSD, flash drive). I cover a full-library method (best for complete backups), smaller/album exports, phone downloads, and tips for verification and future incremental backups.
Before you start — checklist
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Portable drive with enough free space (connect it to your computer and confirm free space).
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A good USB cable and a stable internet connection.
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A computer (Windows or macOS) you can download files to.
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Know your Google account credentials.
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Optional but recommended: external drive formatted as exFAT for both Windows & Mac compatibility (or NTFS for Windows-only, APFS/HFS+ for Mac-only).
Method 1 — Best for full backup : Use Google Takeout (recommended)
Use this when you want all your photos and videos in one go, with original filenames and metadata.
Steps
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Open Google Takeout: go to Google Takeout (search for “Google Takeout” or visit takeout.google.com) and sign into the same Google account you use for Photos.
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Click "Deselect all" (we only want Google Photos).
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Scroll down and check Google Photos . You can click the arrow to select specific albums or export everything.
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Click Next step . Choose:
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Delivery method — "Send download link via email" or "Add to Drive/Dropbox/OneDrive/Box".
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File type & size — zip (common) and an archive size. Google will split larger exports into parts if needed.
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Click Create export . Google will prepare your archive(s). This can take time (depending on library size). Google will email you when ready.
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When you get the email, download the archive file(s) to your computer. If you used "Add to Drive," go to Drive and download the exported archives.
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Extract the zip/tar archives to a local folder:
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Windows: Right-click → Extract All…
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macOS: Double-click the .zip to extract automatically.
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Linux:
unzip filename.zipor use your archive manager.
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Connect your portable drive and copy (drag-and-drop or use copy/paste) the extracted folder(s) to it. Keep the folder structure Google Takeout produced (albums/date folders) to stay organized.
Notes & tips
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If archives are split, download all parts before extracting.
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If you chose "Add to Drive," you can use Drive for desktop to sync the exported archives to your PC, then copy them to the portable drive.
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Keep an extra copy (cloud + external) if these photos are important.
Method 2 — Smaller backups / single albums (quick & manual)
Good if you only need certain albums or a small number of photos.
Steps
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Go to photos.google.com and sign in.
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Open Albums (or select photos in the Library).
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Open an album → click the three-dot menu → choose Download all . Google will create a zip of that album.
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Download, extract, and copy the folder to your portable drive (same as extraction/copy steps above).
When to use this: quick backups, sharing one album, or if your whole library is huge.
Method 3 — From your phone (Android / iPhone)
Use this if photos are already on your phone and you prefer transferring from device to drive.
Android
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Open Google Photos app → select photos (long-press first, then tap others).
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Tap the three-dot menu → Download (this saves selected items to your phone's local storage).
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Connect phone to PC (USB) and set it to File transfer (MTP) . Copy the downloaded photos folder to your portable drive.
iPhone
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In Google Photos, select photos → Save to device . (Saved items go to iPhone Photos app.)
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Connect iPhone to Mac/PC and transfer using Finder (macOS) or Windows Photos import, or use AirDrop to a Mac and then copy to external drive.
Note: For very large libraries, prefer Google Takeout — it's designed for bulk exports.
Verification — make sure nothing is missing
After copying to the portable drive:
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Check file count and total size:
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Windows Explorer / Get Info (Mac) gives file count & size.
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Command examples (optional):
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macOS/Linux:
find /Volumes/YourDrive/GooglePhotosBackup -type f | wc -l -
Windows PowerShell:
(Get-ChildItem -Recurse "E:\GooglePhotosBackup" | Measure-Object).Count
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Spot-check a few photos and videos: open them from the drive and confirm they play/open and metadata (date) looks right.
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For extra safety, create checksums (optional advanced):
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macOS/Linux:
shasum -a 256 file.jpg -
Windows:
certutil -hashfile file.jpg SHA256
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Making future backups easier (incremental)
If you want to add new photos over time without repeating full Takeout:
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Use FreeFileSync (GUI) or rsync (macOS/Linux) or robocopy (Windows) to mirror only new/changed files from your download folder to the external drive. Example
rsynccommands: -
Or export new albums periodically via Takeout or from Google Photos web for selected albums.
Encryption & security (optional)
If photos are sensitive, encrypt the drive or create an encrypted container:
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Windows: Use BitLocker (right-click drive → Turn on BitLocker).
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macOS: Use Disk Utility to create an APFS (Encrypted) volume or encrypt the drive.
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Cross-platform: Use VeraCrypt to create an encrypted container that both Windows and macOS can mount (install VeraCrypt on each OS).
Common problems & fixes
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Not enough space on drive: buy a larger drive or export smaller chunks (choose smaller archive size in Takeout).
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Download interrupted: re-start the download; if Takeout link expires, re-create the export.
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Many small zip parts: download all parts before extracting; use a wired connection for reliability.
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File names changed: Takeout usually preserves original names; if you see changes, check inside extracted folders — originals are usually preserved.
Quick summary (TL;DR)
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For a full backup use Google Takeout → create export → download archives → extract → copy to portable drive.
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For single albums use Google Photos web → Album → Download all → copy to drive.
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From phones , save to device then transfer to your computer and copy to the drive.
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Verify counts & sample files, and consider encryption + a second backup for safety.
Cinder City Gameplay | 12 Minutes of HD Action
Cinder City is an action-packed game that delivers nonstop excitement. In this post, you can watch 12 minutes of Cinder City gameplay in full HD. From stunning graphics to fast-paced battles, every moment is loaded with thrill and energy. If you enjoy exploring new games and watching pure action gameplay, this video is definitely worth checking out
Silent Hill f Beginner Tips: 7 Fun Tricks to Survive the Fog
Fog-Tested & Freak-Proof: 7 Beginner Tips to Survive Silent Hill f (A Fun Guide)
Jumping into Silent Hill f as a newcomer is equal parts “cool mystery” and “oh please don’t jump-scare me.” The game borrows the old-school survival-horror vibe but flips some mechanics in ways that matter—especially combat, puzzles, and the whole sanity system. Below are seven practical, slightly cheeky tips to make your first run far less rage-quit and a lot more “I actually finished that.”
Tip 1 — Pick your difficulty like it’s a date: choose the right vibe
Silent Hill f locks your combat and puzzle difficulty once you start, so pick carefully. If this is your first time, set combat to Story. Why? You’ll face lots of encounters that feel fiddly if you treat them like a Souls match; Story mode smooths the rough edges. You’ll also get the mercy of being able to restore sanity at hokora shrines (massive relief).
Puzzle difficulty isn’t just “more clues” or “fewer clues.” Often the whole puzzle changes—different hints, sometimes different solutions. If you’re here mostly for the narrative and atmosphere (and fewer brain-melters), Story difficulty for puzzles makes the plot flow without chewing your skull off.
Tip 2 — Don’t rush corners — look first, scream later
Approaching a doorway or a shadowy alley? Slow down and rotate the camera before stepping in. Enemies don’t NOTICE you until you cross into their sight cone, and seeing something before it springs gives you precious planning time (run, hide, or pre-aim). This won’t stop every scripted scare or everything hiding on high ledges, but it cuts down on the surprise-drop-heart-rate events.
Little trick: treat the camera like a flashlight for your nerves. If you hear something weird, pan first. You’ll thank me when your character stops becoming an instant appetizer.
Tip 3 — Sanity is a resource, not a suggestion
Sanity isn’t just “spooky meter” — it’s survival currency. On easy sections you might never notice it, but later areas chew away your sanity via enemy attacks and weird world effects. Low sanity eventually starts hurting your health, and then the panic spiral is real.
Plan how many sanity-restoring items you’re carrying and where the nearest hokora is. If you’re low and far from a shrine, play conservatively—avoid risky focus moves and get out of combat faster. If you’re stocked and safe, go ham with focus attacks. Managing sanity = avoiding deaths that feel cheap.
Tip 4 — Use the shrine smartly: offers, faith, and upgrades
Hokora shrines are more than lore set dressing — they’re your upgrade station. Certain items exist primarily to be offered (the dried carcass is the obvious one): place them ASAP. You earn faith (the upgrade currency) from enshrining items, and that faith is how you power Hinako up.
Not everything is worth keeping. Decide what you need based on your playstyle. If you spam focus attacks, stock sanity restoratives. If you prefer dodging and counters, stash stamina and minor heals to the shrine. On Story difficulty, prioritize keeping strong healing items in your bag and donating smaller, niche stuff to the shrine for faith. Little offers stack up and unlock upgrades faster than you’ll expect.
Tip 5 — Sound is your sixth sense: headphones strongly recommended
Silent Hill f uses audio cues like a cheeky predator: music swells when something nasty is near, or you’ll hear wet shuffles and things scraping in the dark before you see them. That change in ambience is an early warning system—listen for it.
Radios in the world also matter. They play fragments—memories, whispers—that add layers to the story and often point you toward useful items. You won’t get weapons from them, but you’ll usually find a restorative or an item nearby and a deeper piece of Hinako’s backstory. So yes, follow the static. Your ears will reward you.
Tip 6 — Read everything, check everything
This isn’t one of those third-person action games where notes are optional fluff. Silent Hill f hands you story fragments, journal prompts, and environmental clues that make the narrative hold together. Skipping notes can leave plot beats confusing or make character motivations feel random.
Exploration pays in concrete ways too: rare offerings for hokora, skill-up ema, inventory pouches, and other small but vital boons hide in dead-ends and cupboards. Inventory is tight, so expanding it is huge. Take your time scavenging—every scrap of paper and hidden drawer might save you a backtrack later or finally explain why someone hates Hinako so much.
Tip 7 — Run like you mean it… most of the time
Not every foe deserves a smackdown. Many encounters in town and the overworld are easier to bypass than to fight—enemies lose interest if you break line of sight and will stop chasing after a while. If a fight is optional and the alternative is messy resource loss, dodge and run.
That advice flips in the spirit world. There, clearing enemies often makes future traversal simpler (you might have to backtrack where mobs respawn), and ceremonial weapons you find there are usually unbreakable—so killing enemies pays off. Also, spirit-world hokora are frequently close by so you can restore sanity after a difficult fight. In short: outside? Evade. Inside the spirit realm? Fight smart, fight fast.
Closing notes — A few small habit-changes that matter
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Quick-scan corners = fewer heart-stops.
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Treat sanity like ammo—don’t waste it on showboating.
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Don’t hoard tiny items; shrine them for upgrades if they don’t match your playstyle.
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Headphones give you a major advantage.
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Read the lore — it pulls the whole story into focus and unlocks journal entries you’ll want to see.
Silent Hill f isn’t about brute force; it’s about choosing when to be brave and when to be clever. Take your time, listen more than you sprint, and remember: surviving the fog looks way better on a second playthrough where you know the map (and the jump-scares) in advance. Now go—light that lamp, step into the mist, and don’t forget to breathe. You’ve got this.
