Author: GizNews

  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Faces Criticism Over Excessive Bloatware

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Faces Criticism Over Excessive Bloatware

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is priced at $1,299 and includes pre-installed bloatware from companies like Meta and Microsoft.
    2. Pre-installed apps vary by region, and users cannot choose which third-party apps to install during setup.
    3. The device includes redundant applications, such as both Samsung and Google browsers or email clients.
    4. Pre-installed apps take up 17 GB of space, adding to the 24 GB used by the operating system.
    5. Concerns exist about background services that may send data to external servers, prompting users to consider disabling them for privacy.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, priced at $1,299 on Amazon, stands out as one of the pricier flagship smartphones available today. However, it seems that Samsung is making extra profit by pre-installing bloatware from companies like Meta and Microsoft. Android Authority has successfully acquired a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra from various retailers and discovered at least eight applications from three external providers that come already loaded on the device.

    Regional Variations

    The specific apps that come pre-installed can vary based on the region where the smartphone is bought. Samsung does not allow users to select which third-party applications they want during the setup process, effectively imposing these apps on customers without any option to opt out. Moreover, there are some Samsung and Google applications that are redundant, such as having both the Samsung browser and Google Chrome, the Samsung Galaxy Store alongside the Google Play Store, or even both Outlook and Gmail.

    Memory Usage Concerns

    The pre-installed apps alone occupy 17 GB of space on a brand new Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, in addition to the roughly 24 GB taken by the operating system. Users on Reddit have also voiced concerns that Samsung activates multiple background services by default, some of which are necessary for AI functions but may also send data to external servers. Given that Samsung has previously released smartphones with spyware, it is wise to disable these background services in the system settings, especially if personal data is stored on the device.

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  • Order Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 in Many Countries Now

    Order Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 in Many Countries Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has launched the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14, available for preorder, with shipping starting on March 24, 2026, in select countries, including the UK.

    2. The new model features a complete redesign, remaining the slimmest and lightest in the X1 Carbon series, while maintaining a 14-inch display.

    3. Upgrades include the Intel Panther Lake platform with the Core Ultra X7 processor, user-replaceable USB-C ports, and a more easily repairable keyboard with a new “space frame” design.

    4. Pricing in the UK starts at £2,099 for the entry-level model with an Intel Core Ultra 5, 32 GB RAM, and a 512 GB SSD, with higher configurations available.

    5. Customization options include different processors, RAM up to 64 GB, trackpad choices, and the option to add WWAN antennas.

    Lenovo has unveiled the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 during the CES 2026 event in January. Now, just two months later, this premium thin and light laptop is nearly available for purchase. Customers can preorder it through Lenovo’s website, and it is set to begin shipping on March 24 in selected countries, including the UK.

    A New Era for the X1 Carbon

    In summary, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 is the latest addition to the acclaimed X1 Carbon series of ultrabooks, featuring a complete redesign compared to the previous X1 Carbon Gen 13 (which can be found on Amazon). This model retains the familiar 14-inch display while being the slimmest and lightest version offered in Lenovo’s premium lineup, all wrapped in the traditional black ThinkPad aesthetics.

    Upgraded Features and Repairability

    This year introduces not only the Intel Panther Lake platform, with the X1 Carbon G14 featuring the Intel Core Ultra X7, but also improvements in repairability and modularity. Unlike its predecessor, the new ThinkPad X1 Carbon comes with user-replaceable USB-C ports and a more easily repairable keyboard, thanks to a new “space frame” design that incorporates a central Magnesium frame. This innovation allows the keyboard to be detached as a separate unit. Additionally, Lenovo has raised the laptop’s thermal design power (TDP) to 30 W, an increase from 22.5 W in the previous model.

    Pricing and Customization Options

    In the UK, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition starts at £2,099. The entry-level variant features an Intel Core Ultra 5 325, 32 GB of RAM, and a 512 GB SSD, alongside a 14-inch WUXGA IPS display. There is a pricier option available at £2,690, which upgrades to an Intel Core Ultra 7 355, maintains 32 GB of RAM, includes a 1 TB SSD, and boasts a 2.8K OLED screen, complete with a better 10 Mpix webcam.

    There are further options such as the Intel Core Ultra 7 356H and Core Ultra 7 X7 358H, with RAM that can reach 64 GB, currently only available on the X7 variant, which starts at over £3,000. Customization is also on the table, allowing customers to select between a mechanical or larger haptic trackpad, as well as the choice of including WWAN antennas or not.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Falls Short of iPhone 16 Pro Max on DxOMark

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Falls Short of iPhone 16 Pro Max on DxOMark

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s camera score improved from 151 to 157, but it ranks 18th overall, behind competitors like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL.
    2. Key camera specifications include a 200 MP main camera with improved aperture, a 50 MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50 MP periscope telephoto camera, with some features carried over from the S25 Ultra.
    3. The camera has a limited focus distance of 52 centimeters, which is double that of its predecessor, impacting close-up shots.
    4. The Galaxy S26 Ultra excels in white balance accuracy, dynamic range, and video stabilization, with good detail in macro photography.
    5. Despite improvements, low-light performance still shows noticeable noise, inconsistent auto-exposure, and issues with detail and autofocus in portrait mode.

    The in-depth camera evaluation from DxOMark for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra ($1,299 on Amazon) has arrived, revealing that Samsung has indeed made enhancements to the camera system when compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, with the score increasing from 151 to 157. Nevertheless, this improvement only secures the 18th position on the chart, trailing behind the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (161 points), the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL (163 points), and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra (175 points).

    Camera Specifications

    The slight upgrade isn’t unexpected, considering Samsung has maintained the 50 MP f/1.9 ultra-wide-angle camera featuring a 1/2.5-inch sensor and the 10 MP f/2.4 telephoto camera with triple zoom and a 1/3.52-inch sensor from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The main camera boasts a 200 MP resolution with a 1/1.3-inch sensor, which benefits from a quicker lens with an aperture shift from f/1.7 to f/1.4, while the 50 MP periscope telephoto camera with a 1/2.52-inch sensor sees an enhancement from f/3.4 to f/2.9.

    Focusing Limitations

    On the downside, the camera’s focus distance is limited to objects that are at least 52 centimeters away, roughly doubling the minimum focus distance. Despite this, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra shines in several areas during the camera evaluation, thanks to its largely accurate white balance, expansive dynamic range, and effective video stabilization. Furthermore, macro photographs are captured with impressive detail.

    Performance Issues

    While the main camera and periscope telephoto camera exhibit reduced image noise due to the higher-quality lenses, noticeable noise persists in low-light situations. The auto-exposure feature does not perform consistently under various conditions. In portrait mode, DxOMark points out that faces tend to lack fine detail, and the autofocus struggles to consistently target a person’s eyes accurately.

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  • Anker Prime Power Bank 26K 300W Launching Soon

    Anker Prime Power Bank 26K 300W Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Anker Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W) is set to release in China on March 11th, 2026.
    2. It supports additional charging protocols, including 120W Max Xiaomi HyperCharge and 66W Max Huawei SuperCharge.
    3. The power bank maintains a total output capacity of 300W, with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port.
    4. It features a 26,250 mAh capacity, capable of powering a MacBook Pro (M4) for up to 19 hours of video calls.
    5. A built-in digital display provides charging status and battery life information, with more details available through the Anker app.

    A new Anker Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W) is gearing up to be released in China. The first version of this portable charger, currently priced at $171.49 on Amazon, was introduced in September 2025.

    Exciting New Features

    Anker has shared a sneak peek of the 2026 Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W) on Weibo, a popular Chinese social platform. This updated model is rumored to have a major advantage over the previous one: it supports additional charging protocols. In addition to the well-known fast-charging protocols such as PD and PPS, this version will also work with specific protocols from Huawei and Xiaomi, including the 120W Max Xiaomi HyperCharge and 66W Max Huawei SuperCharge. A small change from the 2025 version is the addition of a gold accent around the power button.

    Power and Performance

    Similar to the original model, the new Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W) maintains a total output capacity of 300W, which can be distributed among two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. Each USB-C port can output a maximum of 140W, enabling the simultaneous charging of two laptops. With a capacity of 26,250 mAh, it is claimed to provide power to a MacBook Pro (M4) for up to 19 hours of video calls. Additionally, the built-in digital display offers information on charging status and remaining battery life, with more details accessible through the Anker app.

    Release Date and Market Availability

    The 2026 Anker Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W), also referred to as the Anker Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W) Full Protocol Edition, is scheduled to launch in China on March 11th. It is still uncertain when or if this accessory will be available in other regions such as North America or Europe.

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  • Casio Launches G-Shock Metal Bezel Watches with Red Displays

    Casio Launches G-Shock Metal Bezel Watches with Red Displays

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock Fine Metallic Series includes four models: GM-2100YRA-8A, GM-5600YRA-8, GM-110YRA-8, and GM-6900YRA-8, launched in Europe after initial release in Japan in February 2026.

    2. The GM-2100YRA-8A is priced at €269, while the GM-5600YRA-8 is available for €249 in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain.

    3. The GM-2100YRA-8A features a hybrid design with a black dial and digital display, while the GM-5600YRA-8 is purely digital with a black metal frame.

    4. Both models have functionalities such as tracking 31 world time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, LED backlight, and an automatic calendar until 2099.

    5. The watches offer water resistance up to 200 meters, but availability in the UK or North America is currently unclear.

    Two new models from the Casio G-Shock Fine Metallic Series, featuring vibrant red accents, are now up for grabs in Europe. This collection includes four models: the GM-2100YRA-8A, GM-5600YRA-8, GM-110YRA-8, and GM-6900YRA-8, which were initially introduced in Japan in February 2026.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Casio G-Shock GM-2100YRA-8A is available for purchase on the brand’s online store in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain, priced at €269. The G-Shock GM-5600YRA-8 can also be found in these regions, retailing at a slightly lower price of €249.

    Specifications and Features

    The GM-2100YRA-8A is a hybrid timepiece that has a black dial with a digital display featuring a red background. In contrast, the GM-5600YRA-8 is purely digital and sports a black metal frame encasing another red background display. Both models boast a stainless steel bezel, a resin case, and a matching durable silicone strap in silver.

    In terms of functionality, the GM-5600YRA-8 can track 31 world time zones, while both watches are equipped with a stopwatch that measures to 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer, and an alarm. They also feature an LED backlight for visibility in the dark, and the calendar is programmed to run automatically until 2099. With a water resistance of up to 200 meters, it remains unclear when, or if, the Casio G-Shock Fine Metallic Series red accent watches will be officially launched in the UK or North America.

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  • Garmin Expands Data Field Options in Latest Wearable Update

    Garmin Expands Data Field Options in Latest Wearable Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released system software version 3.06 for the Descent X30, enhancing features since the last update in November 2025.
    2. Users can now personalize their dive screen with new data fields, including current depth, NDL time, and stop depth.
    3. Weather and tide information improvements allow for custom naming of locations and enhanced functionality without a smartphone.
    4. The update introduces a Waypoint Manager app for creating new waypoints and aligns NDL-Aware depth metrics with the Dynamic Depth page.
    5. The Descent X30 dive computer is priced at $749.99 and can check for updates automatically via the Garmin Dive app or Garmin Express software.

    Garmin is introducing a fresh update for the Descent X30, specifically system software version 3.06. The previous update for this scuba diving computer was released in November 2025, which enhanced the technical category with new data fields and improved the stability of the Dive Log.

    New Features in Update 3.06

    According to the release notes for Garmin Descent X30 software 3.06, users can now include essential data fields like current depth, NDL time, and stop depth to their personalized dive screen. There are also two improvements regarding weather and tide information. Firstly, users can now assign custom names to these locations. Secondly, the functionality of these features when the device is not paired with a smartphone has reportedly been enhanced.

    Waypoint Manager and Other Improvements

    In addition, the latest update for the Descent X30 allows users to create a new waypoint using the Waypoint Manager app. The order of NDL-Aware depth metrics in the data fields has been aligned with the order found on the Dynamic Depth page. Furthermore, Garmin has addressed issues that were affecting pool mode, the Dive Log, and the passcode security feature.

    The Garmin Descent X30 dive computer is currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon and offers multiple options for updates. The device will automatically search for updates when it’s linked to the Garmin Dive app or the Garmin Express software. Alternatively, users can also check for updates manually on the device by navigating to PREV > Settings > System > Check for Updates.

    Garmin’

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  • Ayaneo’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Handheld: Latest Update for Backers

    Ayaneo’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Handheld: Latest Update for Backers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo’s Konkr Pocket Fit and Pocket Fit Elite have faced production and shipping delays, particularly the Elite version due to supply chain issues.
    2. Production for the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite is set to start on March 17, with initial shipments expected by the end of March.
    3. Ayaneo will begin processing refunds for accessories on March 15, with refunds appearing in backers’ accounts within 3 to 5 working days.
    4. The Konkr Pocket Fit Elite features a 6-inch 1080p display, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, up to 24GB RAM, and 1TB expandable storage.
    5. A price increase for the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite is likely after fulfilling current pre-orders due to rising costs of components.

    It’s been over six months since Ayaneo introduced the Konkr Pocket Fit and Pocket Fit Elite. Sadly, both devices have encountered delays in production and shipping. Ayaneo has largely completed the pre-orders for the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3-powered Konkr Pocket Fit, but the same cannot be said for the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is equipped with the stronger Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    Production Challenges

    In earlier updates, Ayaneo mentioned that the delays for the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite were primarily due to issues in the supply chain, particularly the increasing costs of memory and storage. The last communication indicated that shipments for the handheld would kick off in March, which is three months later than the initial release timeline. Recently, they have shared a new update regarding the situation.

    New Update on Production

    This fresh information comes from the Indiegogo campaign page for the device, stating that production for the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite is set to start on March 17. According to the production timeline, the first group of units should be sent to backers by the end of March. Ayaneo mentioned a more precise date will be provided once they begin production.

    Refund Process for Accessories

    Ayaneo has also given details about the refund procedure for accessories. They announced that refunds will start on March 15 and should appear in the backers’ accounts within 3 to 5 working days. However, if backers do not see the refund after 7 business days, they are encouraged to reach out to the support team.

    The Konkr Pocket Fit Elite features a 6-inch 1080p LCD display that boasts a 144Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which is paired with as much as 24GB of RAM and 1TB of expandable storage. Inside the device, there’s an 8,000mAh battery, along with Hall Effect joysticks and triggers. Moreover, the triggers come with lock options, allowing users to switch between linear Hall Effect triggers and non-linear tactile ones.

    Although Ayaneo has not confirmed a price increase for the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, it is quite likely that such a change will happen after they complete all pre-orders. This consideration arises from the fact that they had to spend nearly three times their original budget for RAM just to meet their current orders.

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  • Resident Evil Requiem Becomes Fastest-Selling Game on Steam & PS

    Resident Evil Requiem Becomes Fastest-Selling Game on Steam & PS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Record-Breaking Launch: Resident Evil Requiem sold 5 million copies within five days of its release, making it the fastest-selling title in the franchise’s history.

    2. High Player Engagement: The game reached a peak of 344,214 concurrent players on Steam shortly after launch, significantly surpassing Resident Evil Village’s peak of 106,631.

    3. Daily Active Players: Over 2.2 million players engage with Resident Evil Requiem daily across platforms like PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Steam.

    4. Visual Excellence: The game is praised for its graphics, being considered one of the best-looking modern games available.

    5. Platform Availability: Resident Evil Requiem is available only on Xbox Series consoles, PlayStation 5/5 Pro, Nintendo Switch 2, and Steam, excluding older consoles like Xbox One and PS4.

    Capcom has really knocked it out of the park with Resident Evil Requiem. The game was released to rave reviews on February 27, and it’s off to a fantastic start. SteamDB shows that the game reached an all-time high of 344,214 players playing at the same time on Steam nine days ago. In comparison, Resident Evil Village only had a peak of 106,631 concurrent players on the platform.

    Sales Milestone

    Resident Evil Requiem appears to be selling quite well. Capcom shared on March 5 that it shipped 5 million copies of Resident Evil Requiem just five days after its launch on February 27. This makes Resident Evil Requiem the fastest-selling title in the franchise’s history.

    Platform Estimates

    While Capcom didn’t give specific numbers for each platform, Alinea Analytics has shared its own estimates regarding sales across platforms. Their early estimates suggest that Capcom sold:

    The analysis also indicates that the Nintendo Switch 2 and physical sales together represent about 0.8 to 1 million copies. Furthermore, Alinea mentioned that over 2.2 million players engage with Resident Evil Requiem daily on platforms like PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Steam.

    Graphics and Availability

    Resident Evil Requiem is a visual masterpiece. Digital Foundry considers it to be among the best-looking modern games available. Unsurprisingly, it is only accessible on Xbox Series consoles, PlayStation 5/5 Pro, Nintendo Switch 2, and Steam. Unfortunately, the Xbox One, PS4, and the original Switch users are out of luck.

    If you’re playing on a PC or gaming laptop, the recommended system requirements for Resident Evil Requiem are:

    These basic requirements are designed for 1080p gameplay upscaled from 720p. In order to play the game at 1440p or 4K, you will need significantly more powerful graphics cards.

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  • Samsung Galaxy M17e 5G: 6000mAh Battery, 120Hz Display, 6 Years Updates

    Samsung Galaxy M17e 5G: 6000mAh Battery, 120Hz Display, 6 Years Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will reveal the Galaxy M17e 5G on March 17, expected to be priced below 15,000 INR (around $162).
    2. The smartphone will come in two color options: Blitz Blue and Vibe Violet, and has an IP54 certification for dust and water resistance.
    3. It features a 120 Hz display refresh rate with a resolution of 1,600 x 720 pixels, an 8 MP front camera, and a rear camera with a 50 MP main sensor.
    4. The Galaxy M17e 5G is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chip and includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
    5. It boasts a large 6,000 mAh battery and will receive six major Android updates along with six years of security patches.

    On a promotional site at Amazon India, Samsung has announced that the Galaxy M17e 5G will be revealed on Tuesday, March 17. Although Samsung hasn’t shared details about the pricing or if it will be available internationally, it is expected to be less expensive than the Galaxy A17, which is priced at $179 on Amazon. This is likely due to the similar features shared with the Samsung Galaxy A07 5G.

    Price Expectations and Color Options

    Samsung has already hinted at a price below 15,000 INR (around $162) on the promotional site. The Galaxy M17e 5G will come in two colors: Blitz Blue (a turquoise shade) and Vibe Violet (purple). The device has a thickness of 8.2 millimeters and is IP54-certified, meaning it can resist larger dust particles and minor water splashes, but it isn’t fully waterproof. This budget-friendly smartphone is set to receive six major Android updates along with six years of security patches.

    Display and Camera Features

    Samsung claims the device features a display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, though it will only support a resolution of 1,600 x 720 pixels, similar to the Galaxy A07 5G. The 8-megapixel front camera is positioned in a slightly outdated notch, while the rear pill-shaped camera module includes a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP depth sensor.

    Performance and Battery Life

    Inside the smartphone, you’ll find a MediaTek Dimensity 6300, a 6 nm ARM chip from 2024, featuring two ARM Cortex-A76 performance cores alongside six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores. A fingerprint sensor located on the side makes unlocking the device easier and more secure. The battery capacity of 6,000 mAh surpasses that of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, making it quite impressive.

    Amazon India

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  • New Party Adventure RPG Launches with “Very Positive” Steam Reviews

    New Party Adventure RPG Launches with “Very Positive” Steam Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Release and Discount: Banquet for Fools officially launched on March 5, 2026, with a 15% discount, reducing the price to $16.99 until March 19.

    2. Unique Gameplay Experience: The game offers a non-traditional RPG experience, emphasizing exploration and decision-making over guided quests, set in a dark, atmospheric world rich in pagan mythology.

    3. Endgame Regions Unlocked: The 1.0 update has opened previously inaccessible endgame areas, allowing players to encounter new deities and craft unique spells.

    4. Targeted Audience Appeal: The developers designed the game for a specific audience, focusing on interactivity and observation, which has resonated well with fans of old-school PC RPGs.

    5. Challenging Difficulty: While the game has received a 91% rating, some newer players may find the difficulty spikes challenging, as the game lacks hand-holding and requires careful exploration and strategy.

    While March has already brought the release of Esoteric Ebb and the lighthearted Legends of Amberland III, the darker side of the genre has just become even more intense. Banquet for Fools officially exited early access on March 5, 2026. This game immerses players in a universe where guidance is swapped for enchantments and a compelling mystery that demands thorough investigation. To mark the 1.0 launch, there’s a 15% discount, bringing the price down to $16.99 until March 19, making it an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy their RPGs to be a bit more “crunchy.”

    Unique Gameplay Experience

    Before you dive into Banquet for Fools, it’s important to understand that this isn’t your typical “follow the yellow arrow” RPG. It shares its universe with Serpent in the Staglands, creating a setting that’s rich in atmosphere, dark, and steeped in pagan mythology. The 1.0 update has unlocked the endgame regions like Porta Dun, which were previously inaccessible to early access players. Players can look forward to encountering strange deities, crafting unique spells, and engaging in a lot of interpretative reading to decide their next actions.

    A Distinctive Approach to RPGs

    The developers clearly aimed for a specific audience with this game, and perhaps that’s what’s contributing to its success. By focusing on a more interactive experience—where observation of the environment is key rather than merely checking a quest log—they have recaptured that nostalgic charm of old-school PC RPGs. The impressive 91% rating highlights this approach, with the targeted niche audience appreciating the absence of hand-holding, even if some newer gamers find the difficulty spikes at 1.0 to be quite challenging—reviews speak volumes about this aspect.

    If you’re interested, you can visit the Steam store page for Banquet for Fools here. And if you’re using a Steam Deck (currently priced at $940 on Amazon, renewed), be sure to go into the settings and increase the UI scale so you won’t have to squint when casting your spells.

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