u/Zahhidd

​Hello friends!

​This post is mainly for the younger generation of collectors and newcomers. I really hope that Nintendo DS still holds a place of honor among you! Experienced collectors probably know this, but if you’re just starting out, this information is for you.

​If you are looking for a used console, I strongly recommend buying an original shell, even if it’s a bit scratched or worn. The quality of the original plastic is significantly higher than any aftermarket shells from China. Don’t be fooled by "Limited Edition" consoles in "mint" condition — in the vast majority of cases, these are cheap reshells with terrible print quality and a flimsy feel.

​We all know the struggle with New 2DS/3DS XL/LL glossy finishes. They were notorious for peeling and bubbling, sometimes even inside a protective case.

​However, here is a pro-tip: if you find a Pearl White model, go for it! This color is most commonly found on Japanese LL versions, but it exists in other regions too. It’s not exactly "rare," but it is highly sought after for a specific reason. Even though the top layer can still peel like other colors, the plastic underneath is white, not black. Unlike other models where peeling reveals a contrasting dark base, the Pearl White stays presentable much longer because the wear is almost invisible.

​In the photos, you can see my main daily driver. It’s modded, and I use it every single day. At first glance, it looks almost mint, doesn't it? But if you look closely, there are actually significant chips and scuffs from years of heavy use. Because it’s the Pearl White model, these marks don't jump out at you. It’s the ultimate choice for someone who actually wants to play their console, not just keep it on a shelf.

​Good luck with the hunt, and keep those consoles original!

P.S. English is not my native language. If anyone thinks this is AI-generated vou're wrong - I'm iust using a translator to help me express my thoughts clearly.🤞

In background: Loriel Tostard - Gustave

https://open.spotify.com/track/0orrgD76lIubUjB1fg6o5I?si=dkou-RRLRU6mPMezk7tMVQ

Hi everyone! I’m new here, it's a pleasure to meet you all!

​Here are the diamonds of my collection and my main pearl — my primary console.

Two vears ago, I found a used Astro Gen 2 Halo Edition on Facebook.

It was a mess: the ear pads were ruined, and the wire insulation was literally crumbling in my hands. But being a huge Halo fan, I couldn't let it die. The fix was simple and cheap:

Stripped the old insulation: Used tweezers and my wife's manicure scissors. Scarv, but necessary.

The "Spring" Mod: Instead of electrical tape, I used a plastic coiled keychain (like a kids' toy). It's soft, looks decent, and doesn't interfere with headband adjustments.

New pads: Swapped the old ones for custom eco-leather or microfiber pads

This pair started my obsession. Now we have a family collection: My wife uses the A10 Wired and A20 Xbox Edition. I'm on the Gen 4, with custom pads. And the restored Halo Edition is still my "diamond"

Hope this "spring mod" helps someone save their old headset!

Do you have any "gems" or restored gear in your collection? Let's see them!

Project Breakdown :

Astro Gen 2 Halo Edition (Facebook-used): $55

Materials cost DIY "Spring": Practically $0.

New Ear Pads (Amazon): ~$15

Everything else: Free. You can just borrow tools from your wife while she's asleep (don't tell her)

P.S. English is not my native language. If anyone thinks this is AI-generated you're wrong - I'm just using a translator to help me express my thoughts clearly. I'm just a guy who loves his gear!🙏🤝

Two years ago, I found a used Astro Gen 2 Halo Edition on Facebook. It was a mess: the ear pads were ruined, and the wire insulation was literally crumbling in my hands. But being a huge Halo fan, I couldn't let it die. ​The fix was simple and cheap:​

Stripped the old insulation: Used tweezers and my wife’s manicure scissors. Scary, but necessary.

​The "Spring" Mod: Instead of electrical tape, I used a plastic coiled keychain (like a kids' toy). It’s soft, looks decent, and doesn't interfere with headband adjustments.

​New pads: Swapped the old ones for custom eco-leather or microfiber pads.

​This pair started my obsession. Now we have a family collection: My wife uses the A10 Wired and A20 Xbox Edition. ​I’m on the Gen 4, with custom pads. ​And the restored Halo Edition is still my "diamond"

​Hope this "spring mod" helps someone save their old headset! Do you have any "gems" or restored gear in your collection? Let's see them!

Project Breakdown:

​Astro Gen 2 Halo Edition (Facebook-used): $55 ​Materials cost DIY "Spring" : Practically $0. ​New Ear Pads (Amazon): ~$15 ​Everything else: Free. You can just borrow tools from your wife while she’s asleep (don't tell her)

​P*.S. English is not my native language. If anyone thinks this is AI-generated, you're wrong — I'm just using a translator to help me express my thoughts clearly. I'm just a guy who loves his gear!*

Fala, galera! Tudo beleza?

​Estou de olho nessas edições limitadas do GameSir G7pro (as versões de Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, Zenless Zone Zero e Dragon’s Dogma 2).

​O que mais me chamou a atenção é que essas edições específicas são SEM FIO, o que é bem raro para controles licenciados de terceiros no Xbox. Atualmente, eu uso um Elite Series 2 vermelho. Gosto dele, e por sorte não tenho drift nos analógicos, mas acho os botões um pouco duros demais. Além disso, o botão B está começando a falhar de vez em quando, o que atrapalha muito na hora da jogatina.

P.S.: Galera, desculpe se o meu português não estiver perfeito. Eu moro aqui no Paraguai e ainda estou aprendendo, mas fiz questão de vir aqui perguntar para vocês porque sei que a comunidade gamer brasileira é a mais foda e entende tudo de Xbox! Queria muito a opinião de vocês. Valeu! 🇧🇷🇵🇾

Marty was more than just a dog. He was there when I lost my father in the summer of 2011, he saw me graduate from medical school and finish my residency. He was there when I started my family, witnessed the birth of my three sons, and stayed by my side during my big move to another country. ​Because of his age, he stayed with my mom — she loved him dearly, and I knew he wouldn't survive the stress of moving abroad. I left knowing I might never see him again. And that’s exactly what happened. ​He was so tiny, but he had the heart of a lion. I always called him "The little dog with a big heart." ​He watched my children grow up, and he was my shadow while I worked from home during the pandemic. Honestly, I can’t even remember what life was like without the sound of his tiny paws hitting the floor. ​Rest easy, buddy. You’ll always be my best friend and so much more. 🌈

The "Test of Time" update was just announced, and the biggest news for me is definitely the ability to ditch the forced Age Transitions. No more transforming Egypt into something else if you don't want to!

​I personally felt that forced switching broke the immersion a bit, so I'm hyped for the new Syncretism and Affirmation mechanics that make playing as one Civ viable.

​What about you guys?

​Will you stick to one Civ from Antiquity to Modernity, or do you actually enjoy the strategy of switching?

​Who do you think the new free leader will be? My money is on a classic fan-favorite!

​Let’s discuss!

Hi everyone!

I was really looking forward to the new Xbox Mode on PC, but like many others, it didn't show up after the latest Windows Update. Since it's a staggered rollout, I decided to force it.

I found a very convenient way to enable it using ViVeTool GUI (available directly in the Microsoft Store). It’s much easier than the command line version.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Install: Search for "ViVeTool GUI" in the Microsoft Store and install it.
2. The Key: Launch the app and search for Feature ID: 59765208
3. Enable: Set this feature to "Enabled" and click "Apply".
4. Reboot: Do a full system restart.
5. Enjoy: After the reboot, the new console-like UI should be active in your Game Bar settings.

It worked perfectly on my setup! The interface feels much more integrated, giving that handheld/console vibe to the PC.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Use ViVeTool at your own risk. It modifies system features. Create a restore point first!

Has anyone else tried this? Any performance issues so far?