Tag Archives: Nostalgia

2025, EXG, Minecraft, Minecraft Movie

Gear Up for Minecraft: The Movie with These Brilliant EXG Pro Collectibles

March 27, 2025 Matt Porter Leave a comment

As Minecraft: The Movie prepares to blast into cinemas on April 4th, there’s never been a better time to bring a bit of blocky brilliance into your own world – and EXG Pro has just the thing.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a redstone rookie, these official Minecraft-themed Cable Guys and Holdems are the perfect way to celebrate your love for all things pixel-perfect – while keeping your gear tidy and your setup looking sharp.

🎮 What Are Cable Guys and Holdems?

If you’re new to the world of EXG Pro, here’s the lowdown: Cable Guys and Holdems are collectible device holders that double up as awesome display pieces. They’re designed to hold controllers, phones, earbuds, and more, making them the ideal mix of practicality and fandom.

Let’s take a look at the Minecraft lineup…

🧱 The Full Roster of Blocky Legends:

Steve Cable Guy R.E.S.T – £29.99

The original icon. Classic Steve is here to hold your controller, phone or even your snacks (we won’t judge). A must-have for any Minecraft purist.

Gear Up for Minecraft: The Movie with These Brilliant EXG Pro Collectibles

Creeper Cable Guy R.E.S.T – £29.99

Sssssstylish and strangely charming, this explosive little number brings the game’s most infamous mob to your desk – without the damage.

Steve in Diamond Armour R.E.S.T – £29.99

Decked out in shimmering diamond gear, this version of Steve is the premium pick for those who’ve fought their way to the top – in-game and IRL.

Enderman Cable Guy – £29.99

Tall, dark and mysterious, the Enderman adds some height and intrigue to your gaming space. Just, uh… try not to make eye contact.

🟩 Mini Marvels: Minecraft Holdems – £17.99 each

Perfect for phones, earbuds or just to look good on your desk, these compact versions of the big hitters are ideal for tighter setups.

Steve Holdems – A pixel-perfect pal in miniature form.
Enderman Holdems – Small, spooky and stylish.
Piglin Holdems – Straight out of the Nether and full of flair.
Zombie Holdems – Shuffly, snappy, and surprisingly useful.

🎥 Get Ready for the Big Screen Adventure

With the Minecraft movie just around the corner, there’s no better time to upgrade your setup with a themed holder that screams style and loyalty to the block-built world. Whether you’re bingeing on survival mode, watching YouTube Let’s Plays, or getting ready for the cinematic debut, these figures make the perfect companions.

Plus, they make brilliant gifts for Minecraft fans of all ages (8+, officially) – especially with Easter and birthdays on the horizon.

🛒 Where to Buy

All of these EXG Pro collectibles are available now from Smyths Toys and other retailers. Prices start from just £17.99 – so whether you want one for your desk, your car, or every room in the house (hey, no judgement), there’s something for everyone.

🧡 Final Thoughts

Minecraft has always been about building your world your way – and with these brilliant EXG Pro Cable Guys and Holdems, you can carry that spirit into your real-world setup. Fun, functional and seriously cool, they’re the perfect celebration of Minecraft’s leap to the silver screen.

Until next time – keep mining, keep crafting, and keep your gadgets held in style.

— Matt, The Gadget Man

2025, Gadget Man, Game Tie-Ins, Games Consoles, Gaming, retro, Retro Consoles, Retro Gadgets

5 Ways To Make Gaming More Fun

February 25, 2025 Matt Porter Leave a comment

Do you love gaming but now find yourself wishing that it could be more fun? You are not alone. It is a situation that many people find themselves in. This is despite the fact that graphics and tech capabilities are greater than ever.

So, how can you restore the fun factor to your gaming activities? Here’s all you need to know.

Win Money

If you play modern titles, you’ll be familiar with in-game purchases. Players often spend more money on them than they do on the game itself. However, you can now grab free spins on registration at casino and bingo sites. Rather than paying out more money to play a game you’ve already paid for, you could win money.

The financial rewards are great. In truth, though, the thrill of winning gives you a dopamine hit that most video games no longer do. Another way to earn money from gaming is to enter tournaments or play eSports.

Play Retro Games

When playing today’s games, it feels like all features are aimed at microtransactions and long-term investments. Back in the day, games had a “pick up and play” quality. Retro games ranging from Pac-Man to popular platformers of the 80s and 90s are far simpler. You can play for an hour and then not worry about them.

You don’t need to dedicate half of your life to the game. You simply have some fun for the duration of play before doing something else. This more balanced approach to gaming will enhance your life in and out of those activities.

Focus On The Fun

Whether playing retro games or modern titles, the focus should be on fun. There’s no need to worry about completing a game to 100% of doing things a certain way. It’s meant to be a recreational activity. So, don’t be afraid to embrace cheats or skip sections that you don’t want to do. The aim is to have fun.

Similarly, there should be no pressure to keep playing a game beyond the point you want. If you’ve completed the main story and want to try another title, go for it. This has to be a smarter move than boring yourself just to keep up with other gamers.

Invite Friends Over

When you think about all the fun you had playing games in yesteryear, it’s not just about the great titles. In truth, the company you shared those moments with was an equally key factor. While jumping in a Call of Duty online lobby is great, there’s nothing like being in the same room as friends. Do not ignore it.

It’s not something you’ll do as often as you did in your youth. Still, inviting pals over to play games and have some snacks is great fun. And it’s certainly cheaper than a night out on the town. Embrace it.

Combine Gaming With Another Love

The one thing that we do love about modern gaming is that it opens the door to doing things your way. Therefore, you may find that streaming or content creation is the perfect way to rediscover your love of gaming. Not least because it encourages you to join the community and find people with similar interests.

Or your love of gaming could be combined with creative writing, films, or other entertainment. The options are endless. And if you can alter your approach to rediscover a love of gaming, it has to be worthwhile.

2025, Amazon, Amazon Prime, Game Tie-Ins, Games Consoles, Gaming, New World

Secret Level: A Love Letter to Gamers, Past and Present

February 18, 2025 Matt Porter Leave a comment

From the moment I first laid eyes on Pac-Man as a kid, weaving that little yellow guy through a maze of ghosts, I was hooked. Video games have been a constant presence in my life, evolving alongside me from the pixelated sprites of the ‘80s to the photorealistic worlds we now explore. So when I stumbled upon Secret Level on Amazon Prime, it immediately captured my imagination. A series dedicated to telling cinematic, thought-provoking stories within the universes of video games? That’s exactly the kind of thing that speaks to someone like me—someone who has journeyed through countless digital worlds, from Pac-Man to Cyberpunk 2077, from Doom to New World.

This anthology series, created by Deadpool director Tim Miller, taps into the rich lore of some of the biggest gaming franchises, giving us fresh, compelling narratives that go beyond button-mashing and high scores. It’s the kind of storytelling that validates gaming as an art form, weaving together action, philosophy, and imagination into something truly special. And no episode encapsulates this better than New World: The Once and Future King—a breathtaking tale of ambition, power, and the price of eternity.

New World: The Once and Future King – A Warrior’s Struggle Against Time Itself

This episode takes us into the world of New World, Amazon’s MMO set on the mysterious island of Aeternum. In this tale, we follow King Aelstrom—voiced by none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger—who washes up on Aeternum’s shores after a brutal storm annihilates his fleet. Aelstrom is a man who has spent his entire life conquering and expanding his empire, but now, in a land where no one can truly die, he’s faced with a paradox. How do you conquer a kingdom where war has no end and death is meaningless?

Secret Level: A Love Letter to Gamers, Past and Present — Image: MGM Amazon

Opposing him is King Zimah (Gabriel Luna), a ruler who has long since embraced the island’s eternal nature. Unlike Aelstrom, Zimah has come to understand the futility of endless war. Time after time, Aelstrom charges into battle, only to fall and rise again, unable to escape the cycle he himself created. Through his encounters with Zimah, he’s forced to confront the true nature of his ambition—was it ever about ruling, or was it simply about the fight itself?

The episode is visually stunning, capturing the ethereal beauty and haunting isolation of Aeternum. But more than that, it’s a masterclass in storytelling, using the lore of New World to explore deeper themes of purpose, pride, and the search for meaning beyond power.

Why You Should Watch Secret Level on Amazon Prime

If you’ve ever lost yourself in the worlds of video games, Secret Level is something you need to check out. Each episode is a deep dive into a beloved gaming universe, but you don’t need to have played the games to appreciate the stories. These aren’t just rehashed plots or cutscene compilations—they’re thoughtful, beautifully crafted narratives that stand on their own.

For me, New World: The Once and Future King was a standout, blending action, philosophy, and a touch of mythic grandeur. But the whole series is a love letter to gaming history, from retro classics to modern epics. If, like me, you grew up watching video games evolve from simple dots on a screen to fully realized worlds, this show will hit that sweet spot between nostalgia and discovery.

So grab your controller—or in this case, your remote—and dive into Secret Level, streaming now on Amazon Prime. You won’t regret it!

Batteries, Electric Car, Electric Cars, Electric Vehicles, Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Technology, The Gadget Man

Renault 5 E-Tech Electric Crowned Car of the Year 2025

January 12, 2025 Matt Porter Leave a comment

Renault has done it again! The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric, alongside its sibling, the Alpine A290, has been awarded the prestigious Car of the Year 2025 title. This marks a significant milestone, not just for Renault’s electrification strategy but also for fans of the Renault 5, a model with a legacy that spans decades.

A Personal Connection: My First Car

This victory feels particularly special to me because my first car was a 1974 Renault 5TL, a quirky, compact vehicle I proudly owned back in 1985. It was my introduction to driving freedom, and I still hold a soft spot for that little hatchback with its distinct personality. Fast forward 40 years, and the Renault 5 has been reimagined as an all-electric icon that’s redefining what city cars can be.

Renault 5 E-Tech Electric Crowned Car of the Year 2025 — Renault R5 image bank media Test-Drive, from September 21 to 23th 2024 at Nice, France – Photo Yannick Brossard / DPPI

Reinventing an Icon

Renault’s decision to electrify the Renault 5 is part of their broader Renaulution plan, aimed at making electric mobility desirable, accessible, and sustainable. The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric brings together retro-inspired design, cutting-edge technology, and eco-conscious production. Starting at an impressive €25,000 (before incentives), it promises to make EV ownership more accessible than ever.

Built on the AmpR Small platform, the Renault 5 E-Tech shares its underpinnings with the Alpine A290, allowing both cars to cater to different markets while maintaining a high standard of performance, design, and onboard technology.

Why the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric Stands Out

The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric isn’t just another city car—it’s an electric game changer. Here’s what makes it special:

Retro Meets Modern: The design pays homage to the original Renault 5 while embracing modern aesthetics. It’s a car that sparks nostalgia while looking firmly towards the future.
Affordable Electric Driving: With a starting price that competes with petrol-powered hatchbacks, the Renault 5 is poised to bring EVs to a broader audience.
Built Sustainably: Manufactured in northern France at Renault’s Ampere ElectriCity, the car is produced as part of a sustainable and energy-efficient process.
Award-Winning Innovation: As the eighth Renault model to win Car of the Year, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric solidifies Renault’s leadership in automotive innovation and electrification.

A Historic Win for Renault

Renault has a rich history of winning the Car of the Year title. The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric follows in the footsteps of iconic models like the Renault 16 (1966), Renault 9 (1982), and Clio (1991 and 2006). This latest win, along with the Scenic E-Tech Electric in 2024, highlights Renault’s ability to blend innovation with consumer appeal.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of Renault, summed it up perfectly: “Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is a real game changer in Europe. It makes electric vehicles desirable as well as inspiring an emotional response.”

Looking Ahead

Renault’s electrification strategy is about more than just one car. Models like the upcoming Renault 4 and Renault 5 are designed to accelerate EV adoption across Europe, cementing Renault’s position as a leader in sustainable mobility.

For me, as someone who started their driving journey in a Renault 5, it’s heartening to see this legendary car reimagined for the future. The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric isn’t just a tribute to its heritage; it’s a bold leap forward, proving that electric vehicles can be stylish, practical, and affordable.

Is the Renault 5 E-Tech the EV for You?

The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric isn’t just another car—it’s a statement. Whether you’re drawn to its retro-inspired design, its impressive tech, or its game-changing price, this is an EV that demands attention.

What do you think? Would the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric make it onto your shortlist? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

2024, Clothing

Retro Voices in Modern Threads: The Rise of Custom 80s Slogan Tees in the 21st Century

February 18, 2024 Matt Porter Leave a comment

In an era where fashion intertwines with statements, the resurgence of 1980s slogan T-shirts in the 21st century is a fascinating blend of nostalgia and contemporary relevance. These iconic pieces of attire, once the voice of a generation’s ethos, politics, and humor, have found new life in today’s fashion scene. As we delve into this revival, we uncover not just a tribute to retro style but a reinvigoration of the T-shirt’s power as a medium for expression. In today’s digital age, where online platforms often mediate our voices, the physicality of wearing one’s beliefs, fandoms, or comedic flair on a T-shirt offers a tangible, unfiltered form of personal expression.

The ’80s were a time of bold statements and even bolder fashion choices. Slogan T-shirts, in particular, served as wearable billboards for everything from political protests to band fandoms. Fast forward to the present, and we see these items not just as retro throwbacks but as a continuing tradition of wearable expression. This revival speaks volumes about our ongoing desire to connect, communicate, and make statements through what we wear.

This trend’s resurgence also highlights the cyclical nature of fashion, where yesterday’s statements become today’s style icons. It’s a reminder that fashion is not just about aesthetics but about messages, moments, and movements. As we wear these slogans, we’re not just recalling the past; we’re redefining their significance for a new era, making them as relevant today as they were decades ago.

In embracing 1980s slogan T-shirts, we weave the fabric of the past with the threads of the present, creating a tapestry of personal and collective expression that transcends time. Whether it’s a vintage find or a modern reinterpretation, these T-shirts remind us that fashion is a powerful form of communication, one that allows us to wear our hearts, humour, and histories on our sleeves.

In the 21st century, the evolution of fashion customization has empowered customers to create their own slogan fashion, reflecting personal tastes, beliefs, and creativity. A standout example of this trend is the ability to design personalized clothing through platforms like TShirtsSlogans.uk. Here, customers can produce customised 80s-style slogan T-shirts, choosing their messages and colours to echo the iconic fashion of the past while embedding their individuality into each piece. This innovation bridges the gap between retro style and personal expression.

A standout example of this trend is the ability to design personalized clothing through platforms like TShirtsSlogans.uk

BBC Radio Kent, Gadget Man, Retro Gadgets

The Relics of Technology: A Stroll Down Memory Lane

October 6, 2023 Matt Porter 1 Comment

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In the rapidly evolving world of technology, it’s easy to forget the gadgets and gizmos that once dominated our lives. Today, we’ll take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the tech tools that have faded into the annals of history.

Floppy Disks and CD-ROMs:
Once, the clunky floppy disks and shimmering CD-ROMs were our only recourse to data storage and transfer. They have now gracefully bowed out, making way for sleek USB drives, capacious external hard drives, and the omnipresent cloud storage that promises accessibility from every corner of the globe.
VHS Tapes and VCRs:
The ritual of rewinding VHS tapes and the magic of VCRs bringing images to life on screen are chapters from a bygone era. They’ve been overshadowed by the crisp clarity of DVDs, Blu-rays, and the instant gratification delivered by streaming services.
Fax Machines:
The whirring and buzzing of fax machines, once music to the ears of office-goers have been replaced by the silent, instantaneous delivery of emails and other digital communication channels.
BlackBerry:
Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.

Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.
The Pager:
The humble pager, a precursor to the mobile revolution, once clipped to belts, has quietly retreated to the shadows as smartphones dominate the communication landscape with various features unimaginable back in the day.
Film Cameras:
The instant gratification of digital photography has replaced the thrill of loading film and the patience of development. Though a niche of enthusiasts still cherishes the craft of film photography, digital cameras and smartphones have become our lenses to the world.
CRT Monitors:
The bulky CRT monitors that once occupied desks were replaced by sleek LCD and LED monitors, marking a significant leap in aesthetics and technology.
Cassette Tapes and Players:
The tactile joy of flipping a cassette tape is a forgotten pleasure. Digital audio and streaming services have ensnared the auditory senses with a promise of endless playlists.
Typewriters:
The rhythmic clacking of typewriter keys is a sound from a bygone era, replaced by the soft tapping on modern-day keyboards as computers and word-processing software took over.
Rotary Phones:
The nostalgic spin of the rotary dial has been replaced by the swift taps on touch-tone and mobile phones, making communication faster and smoother.
The Evolution of Industrial Automation:
Beyond personal gadgets, industrial technology has also undergone dramatic transformations. Take, for example, the servo convertidor, an essential component in early automation systems that controlled motor speed with precision.Once a staple in manufacturing plants, these devices have gradually been replaced by more advanced digital controllers and AI-driven automation. The seamless efficiency of modern robotics and smart technology has streamlined production like never before, leaving behind the once-revolutionary servo convertidor as a relic of industrial progress.

Each piece of outdated technology carries with it stories and memories that shaped the era they belonged to. As we embrace the new, it’s a sweet reminiscence to look back at the tech relics that paved the path for today’s digital wonderland.

You can also listen in to my chat with Steve Ladner on BBC Radio Kent by clicking on the play button at the top of the post

Matt Porter, The Gadget Man – AI, Technology News and Reviews

Tag Archives: Nostalgia