Gaming

Unlocking the iPad Mini’s gaming potential with the GameSir G8+ MFi

Gaming handheld feel

Published

December 22, 2025

GadgetMatch

There’s a point where mobile gaming stops feeling like a compromise and starts feeling intentional. For the iPad mini, that moment usually comes when you stop treating it like a stretched-out phone and start using it like the compact gaming console that it can be. The GameSir G8+ MFi is designed precisely for that shift.

Designed like it belongs

At first glance, the G8+ MFi looks like a premium console controller that’s been split down the middle. The gray-and-white colorway feels clean and understated, more lifestyle accessory than gamer toy.

It doesn’t scream for attention, but once your iPad mini snaps into place, it immediately reframes the entire experience. This isn’t just an add-on. It feels like a missing piece.

Plug-and-play, the iOS way

What makes the G8+ MFi instantly approachable is its official MFi certification. There’s no pairing process to fuss over, no settings rabbit hole to fall into. You plug it in through the built-in Type-C connector and it just works.

Inputs register instantly, games recognize it properly, and latency simply isn’t part of the conversation. That plug-and-play reliability is a big deal on iOS, where controller support can feel inconsistent depending on the accessory.

Built to fit more than phones

The ultra-wide stretch design is the other quiet hero here. With support for devices from 125mm to 215mm, the G8+ MFi holds the iPad mini securely without feeling overextended or awkward. It will work with any Type-C device that fits within that range, whether it’s a compact tablet or a larger smartphone.

Weight distribution matters when you’re gaming for longer sessions, and GameSir gets this right. The controller grips take the strain off your hands, so the iPad mini never feels top-heavy or uncomfortable, even after extended play.

Console-grade comfort and control

Once you start playing, the console-grade ambition of the G8+ MFi becomes obvious. The laser-textured grips add just enough friction to feel secure without being abrasive. The mechanical D-pad is crisp and responsive, especially noticeable in fighting games and platformers where precise inputs matter.

This made playing Zenless Zone Zero and NBA 2K26 Apple Arcade Edition even more engaging. Everything feels deliberate, as if the controller was tuned for real gameplay rather than quick demos.

Hall Effect precision, no drift

The Hall Effect sticks and triggers are the standout feature, and not just on paper. In use, the sticks feel smooth and consistent across their full range of motion, with none of the dead-zone uncertainty that cheaper mobile controllers suffer from.

Because they rely on non-contact magnetic sensors, stick drift isn’t something you have to worry about creeping in months down the line. The triggers mirror that same philosophy. They’re analog, smooth, and responsive, and with hair-trigger mode enabled, they snap into instant-response territory that works especially well for shooters and racing games.

Customization that actually matters

Customization is another area where the G8+ MFi leans into enthusiast territory without becoming overwhelming. The magnetic faceplate pops off easily, letting you swap ABXY layouts or thumbsticks depending on your preference.

Two rear buttons sit right where your fingers naturally rest, and they’re fully remappable for quick actions or shortcuts. It’s the kind of flexibility you appreciate more over time, especially when you start tailoring controls to specific games.

Immersion without compromise

GameSir also didn’t skimp on immersion. Dual asymmetric vibration motors provide feedback that feels purposeful rather than noisy. Explosions, collisions, and subtle environmental cues come through clearly, adding texture to gameplay without becoming distracting.

Combined with the wired connection and pass-through charging, it encourages longer sessions without the usual battery anxiety.

After spending time with the GameSir G8+ MFi, it’s hard to go back to touch controls or generic Bluetooth pads. It turns the iPad mini into something closer to a dedicated handheld console—one that feels focused, comfortable, and capable.

For anyone serious about mobile gaming on iOS, this controller doesn’t just improve the experience. It completes it.

Gaming

Tides of Annihilation opens first public demo at Gamescom 2026

First hands-on

Published

August 6, 2026

Leez

Tides of Annihilation will make its public playable debut at Gamescom 2026.

Developer Eclipse Glow Games announced that attendees can try an extended demo of the upcoming action-adventure game during the event in Cologne, Germany. Players can find the demo at Hall 6, Booth B-050 inside Koelnmesse.

The studio will also reveal a new trailer during Gamescom Opening Night Live on August 25, before the show floor opens.

Demo offers more exploration and combat

The Gamescom demo gives players a longer look at Tides of Annihilation. It features branching paths that lead to different exploration routes and combat encounters. Players can also explore key locations and experience several of the game’s biggest set pieces.

“Gamescom will be an incredibly important moment for our team since this will be our first global playtest and we’re excited to see how first-time players experience our game,” said Ary Chen, Game Director and Co-CEO of Eclipse Glow Games.

“The team has poured heart, soul, and maybe even a few tears into developing the game over the last few years, and it’s finally our opportunity to share it with players. We’re looking forward to seeing their reaction.”

Members of the press and content creators can also schedule private hands-on sessions with the development team during the event.

Arthurian-inspired adventure

Tides of Annihilation blends fast-paced action with a Neo-Medieval vision of modern London. The story follows Gwendolyn after an Outworld invasion leaves the city in ruins.

Driven by a mission to save her sister, she travels between a shattered London and the mythical realm of Avalon. Along the way, she uncovers the mystery behind her newfound powers. She must also decide the fate of reality itself.

Eclipse Glow Games is developing Tides of Annihilation for PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5.

Gaming

Street Fighter 6 adds first Filipino fighter Yasmine to its roster

Eskrima fighter joins battle

Published

August 6, 2026

Rodneil Quiteles

Street Fighter 6 has officially welcomed Yasmine, making history as the first Filipino martial artist to join the franchise’s playable roster. The new character is now available across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2 as part of the game’s Year 4 content.

Yasmine practices Eskrima, having learned the Filipino martial art alongside her older brother under their grandfather’s guidance. She wields Karambit knives in battle and embarks on a journey to find her missing brother.

Players can access Yasmine by purchasing the Year 4 Character Pass or Year 4 Ultimate Pass. Her default outfit features traditional Eskrima-inspired combat attire, while a school uniform serves as her second costume. In combat, she specializes in fast, aggressive attacks that build toward an enhanced Bayani Mode.

Yasmine is the first of four Year 4 fighters, followed by Arjun, Tifa from the Final Fantasy VII Remake series, and Bosch. Her release also arrives alongside battle balance adjustments affecting the entire roster.

Onimusha crossover arrives this week

Capcom also announced a limited-time collaboration between Street Fighter 6 and Onimusha. Running from August 7 to August 31, 2026, the event introduces Oni EX character colors, themed Battle Hub decorations, avatar items, and additional rewards for players who log in during the event.

The update also adds new Avatar Arcade courses, additional ending scenes, a Frame Meter option for Avatar Random Match, and refreshed Master ACT rewards.

Philippine launch event set for August 9

Capcom will celebrate Yasmine’s debut with an official Philippine community launch event on Sunday, August 9, at Salud! by Primera Bar & Restaurant in Palanan, Makati. The event runs from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM and features a double-elimination tournament, gameplay showcases, giveaways, and community activities.

Attendees can also receive limited-edition Yasmine merchandise, including event T-shirts, lanyards, and collectible keychains while supplies last. Special guests and cosplayers are also scheduled to appear. Admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is subject to venue capacity.

Gaming

Gangstar Mirage City launches on August 20 with SEA localization

Join a faction now for a chance to win rewards

Published

August 5, 2026

GadgetMatch

Gangstar Mirage City is set for a full regional launch on August 20, with localization for the Southeast Asia region.

Published by Level Infinite, the free-to-play multiplayer, urban, open-world action game is available for download on iOS and Android.

The full regional release features an expanded open world, a new PvP Arena mode, and local languages.

In Gangstar Mirage City, players can team up for up to 4-man co-op heists, drive powerful vehicles, customize their arsenal, build an empire, and fight for control of Rooklyn City.

Players can register on gangstarmiragecity.com for in-game rewards.

In Southeast Asia, players can also register as a member of their respective local faction and get an exclusive in-game Avatar to represent their loyalty:

Philippines: Manila Brigade
Indonesia: War Kanda
Malaysia: Taiko Tedung
Thailand: SIAM APEX

Factions will be ranked based on how many players join and support them. The winning faction will enable all members to get 300 Diamonds, sent directly to their accounts.

Meanwhile, all players, including those who already began their journey in Rooklyn City with the soft launch last July, are invited to join the Global Vault Heist.

Reaching the final Registration Milestone will unlock the Full Tilt Vehicle Pack. These are the rewards up for grabs per milestone: