The 2024 Wishmas Guide... for Younglings!

 

Don't look now, but... it's time for the Younglings to get some love!

 Gaming 

Video Games: While there are other consoles... handhelds are still the way to go for kids who are usually on the go. Great for use on the telly (sure), but those trips to other locations like the Doctor's office, travel, and much more. These types of devices like the Nintendo Switch or the Valve Steam Deck... go a long way, for younglings, and... your nerves.

If your kid(s) doesn't have a system just yet... I can help you decide on which route to go.

Nintendo Switch is a system I recommend for ages 5+, especially for fans of Nintendo first party titles, because... you won't get them anywhere else beyond their platforms (legally).

Valve Steam Deck is a system I recommend for ages 13+, especially for PC gamers who already have a Steam library. This system will give access to newer games a lot longer because it isn't at risk of Valve pulling the plug on store access. It's a PC that gives you access to your game library on Steam just like a desktop... so it's a total win and gives you the option of connecting monitors + keyboard + mouse + speakers for the standard pc experience.

On that note, no matter which route you go... here are some games we recommend:

• Cat Quest 3 is the third installment in the award-winning Cat Quest series. This 2.5D open-world action RPG takes players on a swashbuckling adventure in a fantastical pirate-themed world known as the Purribean. Players control a purrivateer cat, exploring varied dungeons and biomes, engaging in fierce battles with a refined combat system, and sailing the seas in their very own ship. The game features solo and local co-op play, allowing players to embark on treasure hunts, purrsue bounties, and more! The Trilogy is also available.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  

• LEGO Horizon Adventures is an action-adventure game set in a distant future where the land is made of LEGO bricks. Players join hunter Aloy as she battles to save Earth from an ancient digital demon and a gang of sunworshippers. The game features thrilling online and couch co-op action, allowing players to hunt machines and customize their home and characters. With stunning cinematic visuals and a mix of action, exploration, and customization, this game offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of both LEGO and Horizon.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  

• Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope: Take your dream team on a galactic adventure with Mario + Rabbids. Unleash your heroes' skills but be strategic as you dash your enemies, team jump on your allies, and... take cover! This game was added because it's a highly rated budget friendly game for the Switch! $14.99!
  
  

• Yars Rising: On the Steam Deck side... I can't sleep on this side scrolling, charisma filled adventure with a cool cast of hackers. Run, jump, sneak, and hack your way to the... heart of the mystery as you infiltrate the QoTech Corporation. Emi will continue to powerup as your adventure progresses, by way of... challenging retro minigames (to hack the system). This one is for fans of 2D side scrolling, vibrant anime art, humor + story.
  

  
  
  
  
  
• Barbie Project Friendship: Girls game too, and while some play various types of games (duh of the day)... some are girly girls and enjoy games like BPF. You play as Malibu Barbie & Brooklyn Barbie working together with friends and family to complete challenges and quests to help the community by restoring the Malibu Waves Community Center. Fans of decorating, adventure, story, and mini games will enjoy this title.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  
  
  
  

• Sonic X Shadow Generations: Strap on your kicks and dive into Sonic Generations... starring Sonic + Shadow! In this new standalone campaign for Shadow, Black Doom has reemerged and threatens to take over the world. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world. Harness those new Doom Powers to battle horse of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. These abilities will give you the abilities to surf on water, stop time with Chaos Control, and fly over obstacles.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  
  *Find more Switch & Steam Deck games here.
  
  
  

 Tech Gifts 

• 

  Yoto Audio Player: Is an all-in-one storytelling toy that includes audiobooks, a night light, a clock, and more. This made the list because some parents want to reduce screen time for their children, but wouldn't mind them having access to tech with a simple pixel display.
  
  - Music player
  - Bluetooth
  - Nightlight
  - Acoustically-Engineered Stereo Sound
  - Room Thermometer
  - Pixel Display
  - Audio Cards
  - Durable
  
  $79.99
  
  There is also a Yoto-Mini Player for $54.99, which allows your Younglings to take the device on the go. Outside of the custom audio cards you can make, there are 1000+ cards available for educational activities, music, audio books, soundscapes, etc.
  
  What's the benefit of this type of device? It gives your kids a safe STEM related option that also reduces screen time, while also working as a night light + white noise for bed time, clock, alarm clock and all that good stuff. These audio devices were created for ages 3 - 12+. Check out the Yoto Store for... more!

  
  
  

  

• 3Doodler Start+ Maker Bundle: This 3D printing pen gives your children an affordable way to create 3D creations. Consider the Scrib3D P1 Pen for teen crafters!
  

• VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer: If your youngling loves music like mine, and you see them showcasing interests in possibly being a DJ... this is a badass device. Badass. You aren't just limited to the onboard options in terms of the music, you have the track sliders, tempo, custom keys, and you can also add your own music in. You can use vocals, line-in, bluetooth, and in addition to the DJ Party mode, you can record with the Studio function if they want to record a mix, but before they start on this path of DJing... they can start with Academy. It's recommend for 5+, but don't feel ashamed if you find yourself using it as well. This device comes in Black & Pink!
  
  

  
  
  
  

 Toys & Edutainment Gifts 

• Scholastic Phonics First Little Readers (24 Book Bundle): Perfect for early readers, focusing on specific phonics patterns.

• STEM Explorers Superhero Science: A budget-friendly STEM toy that introduces kids to science concepts.

• Smiless Kiddo Stem Tech Kit: A hands-on tech activity kit that teaches children how to use electronics by way of connecting them to each other to make things work. This kit has 420 projects for your children explore. This is as simple as connecting wires, the more they mix and match the parts... the more things happen when they flip those switches or turn dials. Huzzah!
  

• Minecraft Explorer Kit: I have to round out this section with this badass product from Make-A-Fort. You already know that some people just smile when they hear... "Minecraft", but imagine your kids unboxing this gift and being able to build like in one of their favorite games. You already know they go crazy over empty boxes, so imagine them diving into these:
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
• LEGO: LEGO is on the list without a doubt, because... it gives kids (and parents like myself) the opportunity to dive into creativity and practice those building skills. Playsets are cool, especially if they add to a theme we're going for... but the Classic Large Creative Brick Box gives more room to do more based on their imagination.
  
  See Black Friday toy deals... here.

  
  
  

 Outdoor Gifts 

• 
  Pedal Go Kart: Great for exercise by way of fun. The standard bikes are a classic and great for balance, but a pedal cart makes kids want to jump behind the wheel. The Honey Joy Go Kart's come in four colors, Red, Pink, Blue, and Green. If you have 2+ kids, just imagine the fun. You can grab two green karts for... $150. Honey Joy's Pedal GK2 is also available for $10 bucks more.

• Gardening Kit: This gardening kit gives your younglings the ability to decorate their own flower pots, and grow their own herbs for use in their favorite meals. Even if they don't plan on being a big gardener, it doesn't hurt to have a green thumb.

• Outdoor Explorer Kit: Includes tools for exploring nature, such as binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a compass. Other kits include tools to catch bugs. I would take this type of kit, give it to the younglings and let them roar off on their go karts in a designated area.

• Huge Tree Swing: If you have a big tree... invite a swing to the party, especially one of the huge rectangular options. These are great for multiple children to enjoy with it's 700lb capacity. You would have literally created a new hangout spot. Ensure your branch can handle that weight though. If it checks out, don't be surprised if you find yourself laying across the swing snoring the day away. This is year round fun, just... tell them not to stand on it because it would only be a matter of time before someone runs in the house trying to catch their breath because the wind got knocked out of them. #LortWhatHappenedNow!
  

  
  
  

 Gift an... Experience 

Swimming Lessons

• YMCA of Central Florida: Offers group and private swim lessons for all ages and skill levels.

• Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program: Provides swimming lessons tailored to the needs of each child.

Basketball Lessons

• i9 Sports Youth Basketball Leagues: Fun and age-appropriate basketball leagues for kids.

• Local Community Centers: Many offer basketball programs and camps for children.

Karate Lessons

• Great Start Karate: Online martial arts program designed specifically for kids.

• Local Dojos: Many offer beginner karate classes for children.

Cool Experiences in your Town (here are some options in or near Orlando)

• Kennedy Space Center: An educational and fun experience where kids can learn about space exploration.

• WonderWorks Orlando: Over 100 hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride.

• Tree Trek Adventure Park: An aerial obstacle course that takes kids far above the ground in a natural pine forest.

These gifts and experiences are sure to bring joy fun year round.

 Face Washing Regimen 

This is totally something a parent would appreciate more so than children, but... a face washing regimen with products that use natural ingredients is the gift that keeps on giving. A kid will go outside with the dog, touch everything + the dog, and... those hands end up on their faces. Gotta fight the dirt with a solid product:

• TBH Kid Cleanser: Gentle on the skin, helps restore the skin's natural barrier, balance, and retains moisture.

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin.

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Valve ramps up Steam Deck production: Your wait could be over

Don't get taken to the cleaners, Steam is doubling up on Steam Deck shipments! According to Steam maker Valve wants to get out more than double the number of units on a weekly basis. Is this a sign that Valve has found a new route to cover their parts shortage? It's possible, so take this information and avoid being used by someone trying to jack up the price.

Say no to... price gougers.

I don't want to knock someone's hustle, but... there are literally open box units being sold for $1125.00. It's not even the 512GB model. I've even seen unopened options for $1500.00... which is nearly trip the price. Like... come on, keep your money in your pocket unless you come across a unit that makes sense and you're willing to buy from someone who isn't Valve or a reputable third-party reseller.

There are some people who kept things a bit more reasonable by selling units in a similar price range to the going price on the site. This technically defeats the purpose of reselling (unless they just don't want the device), but these are the only ones I'd entertain... if I ever went that route.

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Air Max Excee Sneaker

Is the Steam Deck the true Alternative to the Nintendo Switch or just a one-off?

Many people have their eye on the Steam Deck when it comes to gaming technology. This portable gaming console has impressive power in a profile that rivals the Nintendo Switch. But before you drop nearly $400 for the most basic model, take into consideration that it may not be the Switch-killer some think it to be.

What Does Steam Deck Offer?

The Steam Deck offers several fascinating developments for PC gaming by utilizing high-end consumer technology and a Nintendo-like design profile. However, unlike Nintendo’s current offering, the Steam Deck is undoubtedly more versatile in function, even working as a desktop computer when needed.

The Steam Deck comes at three price points that range from low-end to high-end PC gaming. These price points will offer different levels of performance for gamers worldwide and provide those with the money to spend, something that feels like a more premium product. 

As far as practical developments go, the internal memory of the baseline $399 model is decent enough but does not compare to NVMe internal storage of the higher tier models at $529 and $649, respectively, especially for game performance.

The Nintendo Difference

The biggest reason for the Nintendo Switch’s success is not hardware but access to first-party Nintendo games. That works against the Steam Deck as a Switch competitor. The Switch is the only way to play Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon. However, many significant games in similar genres are available in the massive Steam interface.

Another consideration for the mass-market appeal of the Switch, when they can be found, is that the system is more affordable than the Steam Deck. Even the most premium version of the Nintendo Switch, the newer OLED model, is still around $50 less than even the basic Steam Deck.

While the hardware isn’t as powerful as the Steam Deck, it sometimes comes to having enough to buy a game to go with the new system. At $299 for a standard Nintendo Switch and $199 for a Switch Lite, the value proposition is quite the incentive, but don’t underestimate Steam sales for great games Valve has some work to do from the first party game standpoint, but the library is vast, and Steam Deck owners would essentially have access to that and then some.

Can Steam Deck Be Upgraded?

One thing to note in favor of the Steam Deck is that it will be relatively painless to repair and replace parts. Despite the portable profile, the Steam Deck has a lot in common with PC gaming tech.

So much so that Valve has partnered with gaming tech company IFixit to provide necessary components as needed for end-users. Repairing a Switch or upgrading it is certainly not as easy.

The most significant downside for the Steam Deck compared to a gaming PC is that users cannot upgrade the Steam Deck as it currently stands. While the tech has been licensed to other companies, it may be a while before upgradable alternatives hit the market.

Steam Deck: Futureproof?

The primary question is if the Steam Deck will be a gaming device that will continue into future iterations or go in the direction of the Steam Link. We’ll get a good sense of that soon enough as this latest batch of Valve gaming tech arrives this month for the first of those who pre-ordered it.

David D. | Feb. 02/21/2022 | 1:38AM

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Eyeing the... Valve Steam Deck!

Sooo... this happened! What is it exactly, a Nintendo Switch Pro? Not at all, but shots have been fired because... Steam Deck may have the device that PC and non-PC gamers have been waiting for, which is the Steam Deck!

I feel like Ludacris right now: Hey Steam Deck... how ya doing? You're the device that I'm really pursuing, and I would like to get to know ya, can ya give me your specs, and hopefully I can pre-order ya... by my next paycheck... ayyy! Anyway, follow me as I eye this beautiful-looking device down.

I wish this device launched with a new Valve title, but... I have enough games to suffice.

As you see here, it has 2 thumbsticks + a D-pad + a View button (the button next to the D-pad) + the ABXY buttons + a Menu button + Quick access (just above the right speaker) + the Steam button (above the left speaker). You also get two trackpads... which someone might be wonder what those do, but there are games on Steam that require a standard keyboard and mouse in some cases... so you have the trackpads. I'd be tempted to see how these work, but I don't know... probably something I would seldom use.

On top of the Steam Deck you have the standard L1 trigger + L2 trigger + R1 trigger + R2 trigger + Volume buttons (closer to the L triggers) + Headphone Jack (next to the volume buttons) + Fan (in the middle to keep the... Steam flowing out properly) + Type C port jack (I'd have to grab a nice Thunderbolt cord) + a Status LED light + Power Button... seems to be set up nicely.

On the back, some of you might be wondering what in the heck are... these, but the device delivers L4 + L5 + R4 + R5 back triggers for pro gamers or at least those who prefer to use pro controllers. There is also an expansion slot for micro SD cards.

Here are the specs of the unit:

Processor: 

AMD APU

CPU: Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4-3.5GHz (up to 448 GFlops FP32)

GPU: 8 RDNA 2 CUs, 1.0-1.6GHz (up to 1.6 TFlops FP32)

APU power: 4-15W

RAM:

16 GB LPDDR5 onboard RAM (5500 MT/s quad 32-bit channels)

Storage:

64 GB eMMC (PCIe Gen 2 x1)

256 GB NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 3 x4)

512 GB high-speed NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 3 x4)

All models use socketed 2230 m.2 modules (not intended for end-user replacement)

All models include a high-speed microSD card slot

Display:

Resolution: 1280 x 800px (16:10 aspect ratio)

Type: Optically bonded IPS LCD for enhanced readability

Display size: 7" diagonal

Brightness: 400 nits typical

Refresh rate: 60Hz

Touch-enabled: Yes

Sensors: Ambient light sensor

Connectivity:

Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0 (support for controllers, accessories and audio)

Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi radio, 2.4GHz and 5GHz, 2 x 2 MIMO, IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac

Audio:

Channels: Stereo with embedded DSP for an immersive listening experience

Microphones: Dual microphone array

Headphone / mic jack: 3.5mm stereo headphone / headphone jack

Digital: Multichannel audio via DisplayPort over USB-C, standard USB-C, or Bluetooth 5.0

Power:

Input: 45W USB Type-C PD3.0 power supply

Battery: 40Whr battery 2 - 8 hours of gameplay

Expansion:

microSD: UHS-I supports SD, SDXC and SDHC

External connectivity for controllers & displays: USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 Alt-mode support; up to 8K @60Hz or 4K @120Hz, USB 3.2 Gen 2

Size/Weight:

Size: 298mm x 117mm x 49mm

Weight: Approx. 669 grams

Software:

Operating System: SteamOS 3.0 (Arch-based)

Desktop: KDE Plasma

I won't say that this is the Nintendo Switch killer because Nintendo has its IPs, but... the Steam Deck has entered the arena where people are looking for some handheld action. Nintendo has occupied this space comfortably for a while with no real competitors (the PS Vita is gone), but now you have a real head-turner for people who have pre-existing libraries that they want to enjoy on a Nintendo Switch-like device. It's actually a handheld PC, that you can dock and use with a Keyboard, Mouse, and... Monitor also.

Basically, if you need a computer to do some simple things on (even using productivity or art software in Steam) you can run them in this. Actually, I won't say simple things, because if you can play a high-res game... you can run software that meets the requirements.

Nintendo was on the Wishmas List at one point, but this has to go on there, because... you get access to your Steam library in portable form. Yes, that option has been there with the Steam Link, which is why that was also recommended, but... this is just so much more. I would much rather access my ridiculous Steam library, but I say that this isn't a Nintendo Switch killer because the big N also has a large player base. So it has that side as far as a portable home game console is concerned with original IPs and the Steam Deck has the... PC audience (and others who may be interested). Will the Steam Deck dip into Nintendo Switch sales? I'm sure of it, but I'm not calling anything as far as who wins between Valve & Nintendo, because we're the actual winners when the competition is fierce.

I do think the place where Steam has the upper hand is... you don't have to wait for the games to be ported. You can play them on day 1 they're available on Steam, but you can also mod this thing... so that changes things even further. Based on an interview with Valve, I believe you can use the Xbox app on this device, and it's safe to say you can use EA & Ubisoft's platforms too. Why is it safe to say that? Easy, remember EA & Ubisoft have this nasty little habit of selling games on one platform that requires their first-party platform to be used.

I'm tired of that, and Valve + Epic Games... must change that. They must require these companies to play the games directly from their platforms rather than leading us to their app. What's the point of buying the game in one only to open it on another? It's not being stolen, let us play directly from the app we purchased it on... period. So that's why I'm sure these two platforms will run, but I had to vent.

You've seen the specs, you've seen the system, now time for the price. The Steam Deck comes in at a solid price of $399. I don't know what it feels like, but I know that I want it because it gives me access to my Steam library to play whenever I want and wherever I want. You just power it on, sign in, and... bam (as long as your game is ready to roll and doesn't require an update)!

You actually have 3 tiers in terms of the device:

$399 

64GB eMMC internal storage

Carrying case

$529

256GB NVMe SSD internal storage

Faster storage

Carrying case

Exclusive Steam Community profile bundle

$649

512GB NVMe SSD internal storage

Fastest storage

Premium anti-glare etched glass

Exclusive carrying case

Exclusive Steam Community profile bundle

Exclusive virtual keyboard theme

Now that you've seen the prices, you see why this thing is turning head... even if the higher models are a few hundred more. It would be DOA starting at $999 because you can buy a PC and call it a day or just get a Switch, but this is a price that makes some of us think twice. By the way, don't be a sucker buying from some scalper trying to cash in on your thirst for a Steam Deck, there are people reserving units that they're selling online for thousands of dollars (I've seen one for over $4000). That's nuts!

Overall, the Steam Deck grabbed my attention, and... I truly see it as a device where I would log a good amount of time on because I more so play games on Steam. If this thing takes off, I strongly suggest that Valve creates more first-party games... or funds teams to do so. I also think it's sweet that I don't have to go and dump money into building a new game library.

For more information on the Valve Steam Deck, check out: https://www.steamdeck.com/en/

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