REVIEW: Gunnar Pinnacles in Onyx/Silver with the Amber Lens

Review by Jon Donnis

Gunnar Optiks have been in this space long enough that expectations tend to be high, and the Pinnacles in Onyx/Silver with the Amber tint slot neatly into that reputation. The first thing that stands out is the design. The modified navigator style has a clean, modern edge without trying too hard, and the layered magnesium aluminium and stainless-steel frame gives it a more premium feel than many rivals in the same category. They sit lightly on the face at 29 grams, and that matters more than it sounds when you are several hours into a working day. The flexible spring hinges help them settle comfortably without constant adjustment, which is one of those small details that quickly becomes noticeable when it is missing.

Performance is where these glasses do their most convincing work. I tested them across a full day in a hot UK office, (Yes I am working during the UK heatwave!) with strong sunlight pushing through a side window and long screen exposure, they handled eye strain better than expected. By the afternoon there was a clear absence of the usual headache build up that tends to creep in during extended computer use. The Amber lens tint does its job without overly distorting the screen, and the G Shield Plus coating keeps reflections and smudging under control, which helps maintain visual clarity throughout the day. It feels like a straightforward case of the technology doing what it claims rather than overpromising.

There is also the practical side of the package that should not be overlooked. The included quad fold case, microfiber pouch and cleaning cloth give it a more complete presentation than many competitors, and it reinforces the sense that this is a product designed for regular daily use rather than occasional wear. The UV protection and blue light filtering are now expected at this level, but they are still reassuring to have working quietly in the background.

The negatives are difficult to find in any meaningful sense. The design will not suit every face shape, particularly if someone prefers a more subtle or traditional frame, and the navigator style does carry a slightly more pronounced visual profile than minimalist alternatives. That said, this is more about personal preference than an actual flaw in the build or performance. Personally I loved the shape and design of the frame, and I got a few compliments on them too.

Overall, the Pinnacles feel like Gunnar Optiks operating at full confidence. They are comfortable, effective, and visually sharp enough to double as both office and casual wear. In practical terms, they do exactly what they are meant to do, and they do it without fuss.

Available now at https://gunnar-optiks.eu/product/gunnar-pinnacles-computer-glasses-onyxsilver-amber-gunnar-focus

Thanks again to GUNNAR for providing the glasses for review.

REVIEW: R-Type Dimensions III (2026 Video Game) on PS5

Review by Jon Donnis

R-Type Dimensions III arrives on PS5 as a fully remastered return to one of shoot ’em up gaming’s most unforgiving traditions, and it wastes no time reminding you why the series has such a loyal following. This is the classic Bydo invasion story reborn, where humanity once again finds itself on the edge of extinction after its own experiments spiral into something far beyond control. You step into the cockpit of the R-90 Ragnarok and are thrown straight into hostile space where reality itself bends under the weight of biomechanical horror.

What immediately stands out is how strongly the game leans into its heritage while still trying to feel modern. Every stage, boss encounter and bullet pattern has been rebuilt with updated visuals and sound, yet the familiar structure of tight corridors, overwhelming enemy waves and near constant pressure remains intact. The option to switch instantly between the original presentation and the remastered version is one of the most striking features here, and it adds a layer of appreciation for how far the presentation has come without losing the identity of the arcade original.

The gameplay itself remains as demanding as ever. R-Type has never been subtle about difficulty, and Dimensions III continues that tradition with levels that rely heavily on memorisation, precise positioning and patience. It is the kind of game where success feels earned through repetition, and failure is a constant companion until patterns start to sink in. For newer players, the inclusion of an infinite mode softens the blow slightly, allowing progress even after repeated deaths, and it does change the overall rhythm of how approachable the game can feel without fully compromising its identity.

There is also a welcome range of modern additions that help smooth out the experience. Local co-op is included, giving the chaos a shared edge, while expanded scoring and survival mechanics add another layer for those chasing mastery. Customisable controls and a suite of quality of life options make the game easier to tailor to individual playstyles, and the inclusion of adjustable 3D camera settings gives a small but noticeable sense of flexibility in how the action is presented.

Despite these improvements, it is not without issues. There are noticeable bugs that can interrupt the flow of play, including hit detection problems and instances where bullets appear to pass through solid objects. In a series built so heavily on precision, these moments stand out more than they might in a less demanding shooter. It is the kind of flaw that ideally would be addressed through updates, but at launch it does affect the sense of polish.

There is also the question of value. At over £30, this remastered package may feel steep for what is essentially a revisited version of existing material, even with the added features and visual overhaul. Fans of the series will likely find more justification in the nostalgia and preservation effort, but newcomers might hesitate when weighing content against cost.

Taken as a whole, R-Type Dimensions III is a game defined by contrast. On one side, it is a loving restoration of a brutally iconic shoot ’em up, complete with enhanced presentation, flexible viewing options and modern conveniences that make it easier to engage with than ever before. On the other, it is still a punishing experience with technical imperfections and a price point that may not convince everyone.

For long time fans, it delivers exactly what it promises, a return to a familiar kind of chaos that demands memory, skill and persistence. For everyone else, it is a stark introduction to one of gaming’s toughest legacies, and one that does not soften its edges as much as you might expect.

Overall, R-Type Dimensions III lands as a solid but imperfect revival, best appreciated by those already invested in its history, and it earns a 7.5 out of 10.

Out Now on PlayStation

https://amzn.to/4duKXud

REVIEW: GUNNAR Monterey Office/Gaming Glasses

Review by Jon Donnis

GUNNAR have spent years building a reputation as one of the biggest names in gaming and office eyewear, and the Monterey glasses continue that trend with a product that feels premium from the moment you pick them up. Designed for people who spend long hours in front of screens, whether gaming late into the night or working through endless office tasks, the Monterey model combines comfort, style and practicality in a way that feels genuinely well thought out.

The Monterey style itself is one of the strongest aspects of the glasses. The sophisticated extra wide wayfarer inspired design gives them a modern, versatile appearance that works equally well at a gaming setup or out in public. Finished in a matte gunmetal titanium frame, they avoid the overly flashy look that often plagues gaming accessories. Instead, they come across as sleek, understated and surprisingly fashionable.

Comfort is another area where these glasses excel. The lightweight titanium construction makes them easy to wear for extended periods without becoming irritating or heavy. During long gaming sessions or full days sat in front of a PC screen, they remain comfortable throughout. The adjustable nose pads also help create a secure fit, which makes a noticeable difference over time.

As expected from GUNNAR, the lenses are the real focus here. The company’s patented blue light blocking technology is designed to reduce eye strain, headaches and poor sleep caused by excessive screen exposure, and in day to day use the effect is noticeable. After several hours in front of bright monitors, your eyes simply feel less fatigued. The amber lens tint may take a little getting used to initially, but it quickly becomes natural and helps improve contrast and visual clarity during extended use.

Text appears easier to focus on and long stretches of gaming feel more comfortable than they normally would without protection. Anyone who spends most of their day switching between monitors, phones and tablets will likely appreciate the reduction in eye stress. There is also something reassuring about wearing a product from a company that has specialised in this area since 2006 and remains one of the few gaming eyewear brands recommended by doctors.

The premium lens coatings add another layer of quality. Reflections are reduced nicely thanks to the anti reflective G Shield coating, while the smudge resistant finish keeps the lenses looking cleaner for longer. It all contributes to the sense that these are a genuinely premium pair of glasses rather than a cheap novelty item cashing in on the blue light trend.

Ultimately, the GUNNAR Monterey glasses deliver exactly what they promise. They look fantastic, feel genuinely premium and make long hours in front of screens far more comfortable. Whether for gaming, office work or everyday screen use, they tick virtually every box imaginable.

Once again, GUNNAR have produced an excellent pair of glasses that are very difficult to fault, and they are our go to brand for long sessions of reviewing the latest video games.

Available now at https://amzn.to/43p897b

Or through Gunnar's own site https://gunnar.com/products/monterey

Thanks to Gunnar for sending us the pair to review.

REVIEW: Lumentale: Memories of Trey (2026 Video Game) - on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

LumenTale: Memories of Trey arrives as a 2026 monster collector RPG that leans heavily on atmosphere, lore and creature bonding, set in the divided land of Talea where war and memory sit close to the surface. It follows Trey through a world shaped by civil conflict between Logos and Mythos, with the Lumen acting as guardians in a fractured society. On paper it is rich material, and at its best the game really does feel like it is building something meaningful rather than just another creature-collecting loop.

Visually, the game makes a strong first impression. Talea has a layered, almost painterly quality, with regions that feel distinct enough to stick in the mind after you have moved on. The Animons themselves are a real highlight. Their designs carry personality and intent, with a wide variety that helps the world feel populated rather than padded out. There is also a clear sense of care in how they are presented, and it helps anchor the emotional angle the game is aiming for, where creatures are not just tools but beings tied to a strange energy called Anivis.

Sound design and music also land well, giving the world a consistent tone that supports its more reflective moments. When LumenTale settles into its rhythm, the turn based combat system is genuinely engaging. It focuses on strategy, elemental strengths and weaknesses, and positioning your team with intention rather than relying on chance. The shift between 1v1 duels and larger 4v4 encounters adds some welcome variety, and building a team of Animons does feel rewarding when the systems click into place.

The problem is that it often takes too long to reach that point. The opening hours are slow, heavy on text, and frequently interrupt momentum just when you want to actually play. There is a constant sense of being held back by dialogue and setup, and it risks losing attention before the core systems properly open up. Even beyond the start, the pacing can feel uneven, with sections that drag more than they should for a game that is trying to hook you on discovery and collection.

There is also a roughness to the overall execution. The game feels closer to an early access build in places than a fully polished release, with unclear mechanics that are not properly explained and leave you learning through trial and error longer than is enjoyable. The user interface can also become intrusive during battles and exploration, occasionally blocking the action or breaking the flow at moments where clarity matters most. It is the sort of friction that builds up over time rather than in one single flaw.

Systems like trading, cooking at the Fountain, and managing your Animon collection through the Anispace show ambition and depth, but they are not always introduced in a way that feels smooth or intuitive. The idea of a space where your captured creatures live and train is strong, and it does help add emotional weight, yet even here the experience can feel slightly underdeveloped in terms of guidance and clarity.

In the end, LumenTale: Memories of Trey is a game with clear ambition and some genuinely strong ideas, particularly in its world building, creature design and strategic combat. However, it struggles to present those strengths cleanly, especially in its opening hours and overall polish. It is the kind of game that might find a dedicated audience willing to push through its rougher edges, but it does not make that initial investment easy.

LumenTale: Memories of Trey is ultimately a mixed experience, held together by its creativity but weakened by pacing and presentation issues. I score it a disappointing 6 out of 10.

Released on 26th May on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2261430/LumenTale_Memories_of_Trey/

REVIEW: Psyvariar 3 (2026 Video Game) - by RED ART GAMES

Review by Jon Donnis

Arcade shoot ‘em ups have always lived and died on one thing. Flow. That hypnotic state where chaos somehow becomes rhythm, bullets become patterns, and survival feels like a dance rather than a desperate scramble. Psyvariar 3 understands that better than most modern shooters, and while it does not reinvent the genre, it absolutely captures the spirit of the old arcade classics with confidence.

Set decades after the events of Psyvariar 2, humanity once again finds itself facing annihilation after the appearance of a mysterious alien signal tied to Gluon particles. The setup is pure arcade nonsense in the best possible way. It exists mainly to push you into wave after wave of enemy ships, laser storms and screen-filling boss attacks. Nobody is coming here for deep storytelling, but the presentation gives the game enough atmosphere to feel connected to the long running series.

Visually, Psyvariar 3 looks fantastic. The neo retro art direction works brilliantly, mixing crisp 2D sprites with impressive 3D environments that twist and move beneath the action. It feels old school without looking dated. Explosions are vibrant, enemy designs are sharp, and the backgrounds constantly shift with movement and depth that give the game real energy. It genuinely looks like a lost arcade shooter rebuilt for modern hardware.

The real star, though, is the famous buzz mechanic. Bullet grazing has existed in plenty of shooters over the years, but Psyvariar still makes it feel unique. Flying dangerously close to enemy fire levels you up, powers your abilities and rewards aggressive play rather than cautious survival. It completely changes how you approach combat. Instead of avoiding danger at all costs, you are actively throwing yourself towards it, weaving between projectiles in search of experience boosts and temporary invincibility.

It creates an addictive risk versus reward loop that feels brilliant when everything clicks. Levelling up at the right moment can save a run entirely, especially during later stages where enemy patterns become overwhelming. There is genuine satisfaction in learning how to manipulate the system to your advantage. Practice really does make perfect here.

The seven playable characters also help keep things fresh. Each pilot feels distinct thanks to unique shot types, bomb systems and scoring mechanics. Some are built for aggressive close-range play, others favour precision and survival. Even the guest appearance from Cotton adds something fun and unexpected. Switching characters noticeably changes how stages play out, which adds plenty of replay value across the various game modes.

There is certainly no shortage of content either. Arcade, Endless, Mission, Caravan and Practice modes give players plenty to work through, while the branching difficulty system encourages repeat runs to uncover tougher boss encounters and alternate routes. It has that classic arcade mentality of constantly pushing you to improve your score and refine your technique.

That said, Psyvariar 3 can occasionally become a victim of its own intensity. The screen gets incredibly busy during stages, especially once enemy fire starts flooding every corner of the display. While experienced players may thrive on that chaos, newcomers could find it frustrating. There are moments where the sheer volume of bullets makes it difficult to properly read the action, and trying to buzz projectiles safely can sometimes feel more reliant on luck than skill.

The updated roll mechanic works well overall, especially on modern controllers, but the speed of movement combined with the visual clutter can occasionally make positioning awkward during tighter encounters. When everything is exploding at once, it becomes easy to lose track of your ship for a split second, and in a game this demanding, that is often enough to end a run.

Still, for fans of arcade shooters, Psyvariar 3 delivers exactly what it promises. Fast action, clever mechanics, stylish visuals and an almost overwhelming sense of arcade energy. It respects the legacy of the series while making enough smart adjustments to feel modern without losing its identity.

Honestly, the only thing missing is an old arcade cabinet with a vertically mounted screen. This is absolutely the kind of game that makes you wish you could physically rotate your television sideways just to recreate that authentic experience at home.

Psyvariar 3 is not always easy to read, and newcomers may bounce off its brutal intensity, but underneath the chaos is an excellent shoot ‘em up with a rewarding skill system and a huge amount of replay value.

A strong return for the series, and one that genre fans should absolutely keep on their radar.

7.5/10

Out Now on PS5 - https://amzn.to/43k4Fmk