KitGuru KitGuru.net – Tech News | Hardware News | Hardware Reviews | IOS | Mobile | Gaming | Graphics Cards
Acer is the official hardware partner of Intel Extreme Masters, the longest running global pro gaming tour in the world! Started in 2006 by ESL, the competition features the world’s best gamers in Counter-Strike, StarCraft II and other esports titles. Acer invited us to join them in Katowice, Poland to look at some new hardware releases as well as visit the opening ceremony and first day of the esports events, namely the opening rounds of the 2024 IEM Katowice Counter-Strike 2 playoffs…
Timestamps:
00:00 Start
00:53 The Media Event
02:37 Spodek Arena
02:52 Predator Aethon 700 keyboard
03:24 Predator Galea 330 earbuds & controllers
03:42 Predator Aethon 303 keyboard
04:01 Predator Galea 365 and 550 Headset
04:20 Predator XB3 / X34v / X45 OLED Monitors
05:16 Predator Z57
06:15 Predator SpatialLabs View 27
06:44 Predator Helios Neo 16 & 18, Triton Neo 16
08:18 Predator Scooter
09:05 Spodek Arena EXPO
09:57 IEM Hall of Heroes – Counter Strike
11:03 Some raw footage from the event
17:00 Sign off
The day kicked off with a visit to E1GoKart in Chorzów where we were treated to a test drive of the new Predator Extreme e-scooter. Featuring a 350w (960w peak) motor, up to 35km of range, IPX5 waterproofing, front and rear suspension and disc brakes as well as 10″ crocodile tyres, the Predator Extreme scooter is well equipped to be taken almost anywhere.
We then headed over to the legendary Spodek Arena in Katowice for a look at some of the latest hardware releases from Acer. A number of new keyboards and peripherals are on the horizon. The Predator Aethon 700 keyboard features a toggle that changes the switch feel from clicky to linear and vice versa. The Aethon 303 keyboard will bring a hot swappable PCB design, alongside 360 degree edge lighting for under £100. Acer are also releasing a number of new headsets, the Galea 365 and Galea 550 as well as a controller and set of earbuds.
Acer were showcasing a number of new monitors at the Spodek Arena. The Predator XB3, Predator X34V, Predator X45 and Predator Z57. There are features and specs across the range of monitors to match just about any requirement. From OLED to Mini-LED, 16:9 to super ultrawide. The Predator Z57 was a particular highlight – a massive 57″ mini-LED panel running a resolution of 7680×2160!
The Predator SpatialLabs View 27 was also on display. This is a very unique monitor that features built in 3D capabilities that provide a 3D gaming experience without the need for glasses or a headset. We tested this during our trip and was surprised at just how good it works. Even with Mat being a glasses wearer, the monitor handled it with ease.
All images image credited to: Acer & ChilliBob PR
The we had the chance to have another look at the Predator Extreme e-scooter, as well as get some more detail on the specs. After testing this earlier in the day, we can confirm this is a solid feeling, well built scooter that doesn't hold back on the speed!
After checking out the plethora of new hardware releases from Acer we headed over to the IEM Expo, with the main focus being esports and Counter-Strike skins. Finally, we ended the day by watching the opening match of the IEM 2024 Katowice playoffs – Faze Clan took on G2 Esports in a match that saw the reigning champions G2, take on the 2022 champions Faze Clan. To see footage from one of the biggest events of the esports calendar head over to our full video over on YouTube.
Discuss on our Facebook page HERE.
KitGuru says: There are a lot of exciting releases on the horizon from Acer. The Predator Z57 is a colossal monitor and has to be seen to be believed. The SpatialLabs hardware is showing some real promise and works very, very well. The event overall was very well put together and I enjoyed my time in Poland immensely. Seeing the absolute top tier of Counter-Strike 2 competitive gaming in person is an experience that everyone with a interest in gaming should try out at least once.
